1
|
Adesanya O, Das D, Kalsotra A. Emerging roles of RNA-binding proteins in fatty liver disease. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1840. [PMID: 38613185 PMCID: PMC11018357 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1840] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
A rampant and urgent global health issue of the 21st century is the emergence and progression of fatty liver disease (FLD), including alcoholic fatty liver disease and the more heterogenous metabolism-associated (or non-alcoholic) fatty liver disease (MAFLD/NAFLD) phenotypes. These conditions manifest as disease spectra, progressing from benign hepatic steatosis to symptomatic steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and, ultimately, hepatocellular carcinoma. With numerous intricately regulated molecular pathways implicated in its pathophysiology, recent data have emphasized the critical roles of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) in the onset and development of FLD. They regulate gene transcription and post-transcriptional processes, including pre-mRNA splicing, capping, and polyadenylation, as well as mature mRNA transport, stability, and translation. RBP dysfunction at every point along the mRNA life cycle has been associated with altered lipid metabolism and cellular stress response, resulting in hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Here, we discuss the current understanding of the role of RBPs in the post-transcriptional processes associated with FLD and highlight the possible and emerging therapeutic strategies leveraging RBP function for FLD treatment. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Diptatanu Das
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Auinash Kalsotra
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Cancer Center @ Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen L, Wang Y. Interdisciplinary advances reshape the delivery tools for effective NASH treatment. Mol Metab 2023; 73:101730. [PMID: 37142161 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2023.101730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a severe systemic and inflammatory subtype of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, eventually develops into cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma with few options for effective treatment. Currently potent small molecules identified in preclinical studies are confronted with adverse effects and long-term ineffectiveness in clinical trials. Nevertheless, highly specific delivery tools designed from interdisciplinary concepts may address the significant challenges by either effectively increasing the concentrations of drugs in target cell types, or selectively manipulating the gene expression in liver to resolve NASH. SCOPE OF REVIEW We focus on dissecting the detailed principles of the latest interdisciplinary advances and concepts that direct the design of future delivery tools to enhance the efficacy. Recent advances have indicated that cell and organelle-specific vehicles, non-coding RNA research (e.g. saRNA, hybrid miRNA) improve the specificity, while small extracellular vesicles and coacervates increase the cellular uptake of therapeutics. Moreover, strategies based on interdisciplinary advances drastically elevate drug loading capacity and delivery efficiency and ameliorate NASH and other liver diseases. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS The latest concepts and advances in chemistry, biochemistry and machine learning technology provide the framework and strategies for the design of more effective tools to treat NASH, other pivotal liver diseases and metabolic disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linshan Chen
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yibing Wang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China; Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jiang T, Gonzalez KM, Cordova LE, Lu J. Nanotechnology-enabled gene delivery for cancer and other genetic diseases. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:523-540. [PMID: 37017558 PMCID: PMC10164135 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2200246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite gene therapy is ideal for genetic abnormality-related diseases, the easy degradation, poor targeting, and inefficiency in entering targeted cells are plaguing the effective delivery of gene therapy. Viral and non-viral vectors have been used for delivering gene therapeutics in vivo by safeguarding nucleic acid agents to target cells and to reach the specific intracellular location. A variety of nanotechnology-enabled safe and efficient systems have been successfully developed to improve the targeting ability for effective therapeutic delivery of genetic drugs. AREAS COVERED In this review, we outline the multiple biological barriers associated with gene delivery process, and highlight recent advances to gene therapy strategy in vivo, including gene correction, gene silencing, gene activation and genome editing. We point out current developments and challenges exist of non-viral and viral vector systems in association with chemical and physical gene delivery technologies and their potential for the future. EXPERT OPINION This review focuses on the opportunities and challenges to various gene therapy strategy, with specific emphasis on overcoming the challenges through the development of biocompatibility and smart gene vectors for potential clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tong Jiang
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
| | - Karina Marie Gonzalez
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
| | - Leyla Estrella Cordova
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
| | - Jianqin Lu
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
- NCI-designated University of Arizona Comprehensive Cancer Center, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
- BIO5 Institute, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
- Southwest Environmental Health Sciences Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, 85721, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Castro-Muñoz LJ, Vázquez Ulloa E, Sahlgren C, Lizano M, De La Cruz-Hernández E, Contreras-Paredes A. Modulating epigenetic modifications for cancer therapy (Review). Oncol Rep 2023; 49:59. [PMID: 36799181 PMCID: PMC9942256 DOI: 10.3892/or.2023.8496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a global public health concern. Alterations in epigenetic processes are among the earliest genomic aberrations occurring during cancer development and are closely related to progression. Unlike genetic mutations, aberrations in epigenetic processes are reversible, which opens the possibility for novel pharmacological treatments. Non‑coding RNAs (ncRNAs) represent an essential epigenetic mechanism, and emerging evidence links ncRNAs to carcinogenesis. Epigenetic drugs (epidrugs) are a group of promising target therapies for cancer treatment acting as coadjuvants to reverse drug resistance in cancer. The present review describes central epigenetic aberrations during malignant transformation and explains how epidrugs target DNA methylation, histone modifications and ncRNAs. Furthermore, clinical trials focused on evaluating the effect of these epidrugs alone or in combination with other anticancer therapies and other ncRNA‑based therapies are discussed. The use of epidrugs promises to be an effective tool for reversing drug resistance in some patients with cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elenaé Vázquez Ulloa
- Faculty of Science and Engineering/Cell Biology, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20500, Finland
- Turku Bioscience, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20500, Finland
| | - Cecilia Sahlgren
- Faculty of Science and Engineering/Cell Biology, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20500, Finland
- Turku Bioscience, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20500, Finland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Marcela Lizano
- Unidad de Investigacion Biomedica en Cancer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Ciudad de Mexico 14080, Mexico
- Departamento de Medicina Genomica y Toxicologia Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico 04510, Mexico
| | - Erick De La Cruz-Hernández
- Laboratory of Research in Metabolic and Infectious Diseases, Multidisciplinary Academic Division of Comalcalco, Juarez Autonomous University of Tabasco, Comalcalco, Tabasco 86650, Mexico
| | - Adriana Contreras-Paredes
- Unidad de Investigacion Biomedica en Cancer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Ciudad de Mexico 14080, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Roth C, Kilpinen H, Kurian MA, Barral S. Histone lysine methyltransferase-related neurodevelopmental disorders: current knowledge and saRNA future therapies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1090046. [PMID: 36923252 PMCID: PMC10009263 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1090046] [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: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders encompass a group of debilitating diseases presenting with motor and cognitive dysfunction, with variable age of onset and disease severity. Advances in genetic diagnostic tools have facilitated the identification of several monogenic chromatin remodeling diseases that cause Neurodevelopmental disorders. Chromatin remodelers play a key role in the neuro-epigenetic landscape and regulation of brain development; it is therefore not surprising that mutations, leading to loss of protein function, result in aberrant neurodevelopment. Heterozygous, usually de novo mutations in histone lysine methyltransferases have been described in patients leading to haploinsufficiency, dysregulated protein levels and impaired protein function. Studies in animal models and patient-derived cell lines, have highlighted the role of histone lysine methyltransferases in the regulation of cell self-renewal, cell fate specification and apoptosis. To date, in depth studies of histone lysine methyltransferases in oncology have provided strong evidence of histone lysine methyltransferase dysregulation as a determinant of cancer progression and drug resistance. As a result, histone lysine methyltransferases have become an important therapeutic target for the treatment of different cancer forms. Despite recent advances, we still lack knowledge about the role of histone lysine methyltransferases in neuronal development. This has hampered both the study and development of precision therapies for histone lysine methyltransferases-related Neurodevelopmental disorders. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge of the role of histone lysine methyltransferases in neuronal development and disease progression. We will also discuss how RNA-based technologies using small-activating RNAs could potentially provide a novel therapeutic approach for the future treatment of histone lysine methyltransferase haploinsufficiency in these Neurodevelopmental disorders, and how they could be first tested in state-of-the-art patient-derived neuronal models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Roth
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helena Kilpinen
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Manju A. Kurian
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Serena Barral
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Berasain C, Arechederra M, Argemí J, Fernández-Barrena MG, Avila MA. Loss of liver function in chronic liver disease: An identity crisis. J Hepatol 2023; 78:401-414. [PMID: 36115636 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Adult hepatocyte identity is constructed throughout embryonic development and fine-tuned after birth. A multinodular network of transcription factors, along with pre-mRNA splicing regulators, define the transcriptome, which encodes the proteins needed to perform the complex metabolic and secretory functions of the mature liver. Transient hepatocellular dedifferentiation can occur as part of the regenerative mechanisms triggered in response to acute liver injury. However, persistent downregulation of key identity genes is now accepted as a strong determinant of organ dysfunction in chronic liver disease, a major global health burden. Therefore, the identification of core transcription factors and splicing regulators that preserve hepatocellular phenotype, and a thorough understanding of how these networks become disrupted in diseased hepatocytes, is of high clinical relevance. In this context, we review the key players in liver differentiation and discuss in detail critical factors, such as HNF4α, whose impairment mediates the breakdown of liver function. Moreover, we present compelling experimental evidence demonstrating that restoration of core transcription factor expression in a chronically injured liver can reset hepatocellular identity, improve function and ameliorate structural abnormalities. The possibility of correcting the phenotype of severely damaged and malfunctional livers may reveal new therapeutic opportunities for individuals with cirrhosis and advanced liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Berasain
- Program of Hepatology, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra, IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Maria Arechederra
- Program of Hepatology, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra, IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Josepmaria Argemí
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra, IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain; Liver Unit, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maite G Fernández-Barrena
- Program of Hepatology, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra, IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Matías A Avila
- Program of Hepatology, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra, IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Crouvezier N, Marie AC, Moumné L. [Mechanisms of action and patentability of therapeutic oligonucleotides]. Med Sci (Paris) 2023; 39:111-118. [PMID: 36799745 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2023005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Oligonucleotides are small nucleic acids capable of interacting with DNA or RNA to modulate gene expression. Widely used by researchers as research tools to modulate the expression of the genes they seek to decipher the function, oligonucleotides can also serve as therapeutic agents to regulate targets of interest. After the first marketing authorisation of an oligonucleotide therapeutics in 1998, the field met little clinical success until 2016 when Spinraza® became the first drug authorized for spinal muscular atrophy. This compound became in the following years the first "blockbuster" among this class of molecules, validating the commercial potential of oligonucleotide drugs. Since then, about ten other oligonucleotides hit the market and a broad pipeline is currently in late clinical development. Through our article, we describe therapeutic oligonucleotides, their modes of action and their patentability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lara Moumné
- Inserm Transfert, 7 rue Watt, 75013 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yang Z, Liu Y, Cheng Q, Chen T. Targeting super enhancers for liver disease: a review. PeerJ 2023; 11:e14780. [PMID: 36726725 PMCID: PMC9885865 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Super enhancers (SEs) refer to the ultralong regions of a gene accompanied by multiple transcription factors and cofactors and strongly drive the expression of cell-type-related genes. Recent studies have demonstrated that SEs play crucial roles in regulating gene expression related to cell cycle progression and transcription. Aberrant activation of SEs is closely related to the occurrence and development of liver disease. Liver disease, especially liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), constitutes a major class of diseases that seriously endanger human health. Currently, therapeutic strategies targeting SEs can dramatically prevent disease progression and improve the prognosis of animal models. The associated new approaches to the treatment of related liver disease are relatively new and need systematic elaboration. Objectives In this review, we elaborate on the features of SEs and discuss their function in liver disease. Additionally, we review their application prospects in clinical practice in the future. The article would be of interest to hepatologists, molecular biologists, clinicians, and all those concerned with targeted therapy and prognosis of liver disease. Methodology We searched three bibliographic databases (Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, PubMed) from 01/1981 to 06/2022 for peer-reviewed scientific publications focused on (1) gene treatment of liver disease; (2) current status of SE research; and (3) targeting SEs for liver disease. We included English language original studies only. Results The number of published studies considering the role of enhancers in liver disease is considerable. Since SEs were just defined in 2013, the corresponding data on SEs are scarce: approximately 50 papers found in bibliographic databases on the correlation between enhancers (or SEs) and liver disease. Remarkably, half of these papers were published in the past three years, indicating the growing interest of the scientific community in this issue. Studies have shown that treatments targeting components of SEs can improve outcomes in liver disease in animal and clinical trials. Conclusions The treatment of liver disease is facing a bottleneck, and new treatments are needed. Therapeutic regimens targeting SEs have an important role in the treatment of liver disease. However, given the off-target effect of gene therapy and the lack of clinical trials, the available experimental data are still fragmented and controversial.
Collapse
|
9
|
Fan Z, Liu B, Shang P. Development and validation of a nomogram prediction model based on albumin-to-alkaline phosphatase ratio for predicting the prognosis of gallbladder carcinoma. Pathol Oncol Res 2023; 28:1610818. [PMID: 36685104 PMCID: PMC9845243 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2022.1610818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) is a rare biliary tract cancer with a high recurrence rate and a poor prognosis. Albumin-alkaline phosphatase ratio (AAPR) has been demonstrated to be a prognostic predictor for several cancers, but its predictive value for GBC patients remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive role of AAPR in GBC patients and to develop a novel nomogram prediction model for GBC patients. We retrospectively collected data from 80 patients who underwent surgery at the Hospital of 81st Group Army PLA as a training cohort. Data were collected from 70 patients with the same diagnosis who underwent surgery at the First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University as an external verification cohort. The optimal cut-off value of AAPR was determined using X-tile software. A nomogram for the overall survival (OS) based on multivariate Cox regression analysis was developed and validated using calibration curves, Harrell's concordance index, the receiver operating characteristic curves, and decisive curve analyses. The optimal cut-off value of AAPR was .20. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses demonstrated that BMI (p = .043), R0 resection (p = .001), TNM stage (p = .005), and AAPR (p = .017) were independent risk factors for GBC patients. In terms of consistency, discrimination, and net benefit, the nomogram incorporating these four independent risk factors performed admirably. AAPR is an independent predictor of GBC patients undergoing surgery, and a novel nomogram prediction model based on AAPR showed superior predictive ability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zizheng Fan
- Department of Graduate School, Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Hospital of 81st Group Army PLA, Zhangjiakou, China
| | - Peizhong Shang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Hospital of 81st Group Army PLA, Zhangjiakou, China,*Correspondence: Peizhong Shang,
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gregory GL, Copple IM. Modulating the expression of tumor suppressor genes using activating oligonucleotide technologies as a therapeutic approach in cancer. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 31:211-223. [PMID: 36700046 PMCID: PMC9840112 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) are frequently downregulated in cancer, leading to dysregulation of the pathways that they control. The continuum model of tumor suppression suggests that even subtle changes in TSG expression, for example, driven by epigenetic modifications or copy number alterations, can lead to a loss of gene function and a phenotypic effect. This approach to exploring tumor suppression provides opportunities for alternative therapies that may be able to restore TSG expression toward normal levels, such as oligonucleotide therapies. Oligonucleotide therapies involve the administration of exogenous nucleic acids to modulate the expression of specific endogenous genes. This review focuses on two types of activating oligonucleotide therapies, small-activating RNAs and synthetic mRNAs, as novel methods to increase the expression of TSGs in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgina L. Gregory
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular & Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Ian M. Copple
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular & Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
- Corresponding author: Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular & Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zheng S, Bian H, Li J, Shen Y, Yang Y, Hu W. Differentiation therapy: Unlocking phenotypic plasticity of hepatocellular carcinoma. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2022; 180:103854. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
|
12
|
Wang L, Feng J, Deng Y, Yang Q, Wei Q, Ye D, Rong X, Guo J. CCAAT/Enhancer-Binding Proteins in Fibrosis: Complex Roles Beyond Conventional Understanding. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2022; 2022:9891689. [PMID: 36299447 PMCID: PMC9575473 DOI: 10.34133/2022/9891689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBPs) are a family of at least six identified transcription factors that contain a highly conserved basic leucine zipper domain and interact selectively with duplex DNA to regulate target gene expression. C/EBPs play important roles in various physiological processes, and their abnormal function can lead to various diseases. Recently, accumulating evidence has demonstrated that aberrant C/EBP expression or activity is closely associated with the onset and progression of fibrosis in several organs and tissues. During fibrosis, various C/EBPs can exert distinct functions in the same organ, while the same C/EBP can exert distinct functions in different organs. Modulating C/EBP expression or activity could regulate various molecular processes to alleviate fibrosis in multiple organs; therefore, novel C/EBPs-based therapeutic methods for treating fibrosis have attracted considerable attention. In this review, we will explore the features of C/EBPs and their critical functions in fibrosis in order to highlight new avenues for the development of novel therapies targeting C/EBPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lexun Wang
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, China
- Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disease Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaojiao Feng
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, China
- Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disease Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanyue Deng
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, China
- Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disease Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianqian Yang
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, China
- Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disease Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Quxing Wei
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, China
- Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disease Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dewei Ye
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, China
- Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disease Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianglu Rong
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, China
- Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disease Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiao Guo
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, China
- Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disease Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zheng L, Huang Z, Li X, He M, Liu X, Zheng G, Zhou X, Liu L. Construction and validation of a predictive model for hepatocellular carcinoma based on serum markers. BMC Gastroenterol 2022; 22:418. [PMID: 36100887 PMCID: PMC9472335 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-022-02489-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) detection with non-invasive biomarkers remains an unmet clinical need. We aimed to construct a predictive model based on the pre-diagnostic levels of serum markers to predict the early-stage onset of HCC.
Methods
A total of 339 HCC patients (including 157 patients from Changzhou cohort and 182 patients from Wuxi cohort) were enrolled in our retrospective study. Levels of 25 baseline serum markers were collected. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was conducted to balance the distributions of patients’ gender, age, and the surveillance time between HCC group and control group. Then, Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and Logistic regression analysis were performed to screen the independent predictive variables and construct a non-invasive predictive model. Subsequently, ROC curve and Kaplan–Meier (K–M) curve were used to evaluate the predictive values of the model. Clinical net benefit of the model was demonstrated by decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curve.
Results
Five independent predictive variables for HCC onset and two general characteristics of patients (age and gender) were incorporated into the score model. ROC and DCA curves showed that the score model had better predictive performance in discrimination and clinical net benefit compared with single variable or other score systems, with the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.890 (95% CI 0.856–0.925) in Changzhou cohort and 0.799 (95% CI 0.751–0.849) in Wuxi cohort. Meanwhile, stratification analysis indicated that the score model had good predictive values for patients with early tumor stage (AJCC stage I) or small tumors (< 2 cm). Moreover, the score of HCC patient began to increase at 30 months before clinical diagnosis and reach a peak at 6 months.
Conclusion
Based on this model, we could optimize the current risk stratification at an early stage and consider further intensive surveillance programs for high-risk patients. It could also help clinicians to evaluate the progression and predict the prognosis of HCC patients.
Collapse
|
14
|
Tan CP, Sinigaglia L, Gomez V, Nicholls J, Habib NA. RNA Activation-A Novel Approach to Therapeutically Upregulate Gene Transcription. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26216530. [PMID: 34770939 PMCID: PMC8586927 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA activation (RNAa) is a mechanism whereby RNA oligos complementary to genomic sequences around the promoter region of genes increase the transcription output of their target gene. Small activating RNA (saRNA) mediate RNAa through interaction with protein co-factors to facilitate RNA polymerase II activity and nucleosome remodeling. As saRNA are small, versatile and safe, they represent a new class of therapeutics that can rescue the downregulation of critical genes in disease settings. This review highlights our current understanding of saRNA biology and describes various examples of how saRNA are successfully used to treat various oncological, neurological and monogenic diseases. MTL-CEBPA, a first-in-class compound that reverses CEBPA downregulation in oncogenic processes using CEBPA-51 saRNA has entered clinical trial for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Preclinical models demonstrate that MTL-CEBPA reverses the immunosuppressive effects of myeloid cells and allows for the synergistic enhancement of other anticancer drugs. Encouraging results led to the initiation of a clinical trial combining MTL-CEBPA with a PD-1 inhibitor for treatment of solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Choon Ping Tan
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
| | - Laura Sinigaglia
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
| | - Valentí Gomez
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
| | - Joanna Nicholls
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Nagy A. Habib
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)20-3313-8574
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
MTL-CEBPA Combined with Immunotherapy or RFA Enhances Immunological Anti-Tumor Response in Preclinical Models. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179168. [PMID: 34502076 PMCID: PMC8431011 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor CEBPA is a master regulator of liver homeostasis, myeloid cell differentiation and is downregulated in several oncogenic diseases. MTL-CEBPA is a small activating RNA drug which upregulates gene expression of CEBPA for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We investigate whether MTL-CEBPA has immune modulatory effects by combining MTL-CEBPA with an anti-PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) and/or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in two preclinical models. First, mice with two flanks of HCC tumors (BNL) were treated with combinations of RFA (right flank), anti-PD-1 or MTL-CEBPA. The reduction of the left flank tumors was most pronounced in the group treated with RFA+anti-PD1+MTL-CEBPA and 7/8 animals responded. This was the only group with a significant increase in CD8+ and CD49b+/CD45+ tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL). Second, a combination of anti-PD-1+MTL-CEBPA was tested in a CT26 colon cancer model and this treatment significantly reduced tumor size, modulated the tumor immune microenvironment and increased TILs. These data suggest a clinical role for combination treatment with CPIs, RFA and MTL-CEBPA through synergistic priming of the immune tumor response, enabling RFA and CPIs to have a pronounced anti-tumor effect including activity in non-treated tumors in the case of RFA.
Collapse
|
16
|
Shigdar S, Schrand B, Giangrande PH, de Franciscis V. Aptamers: Cutting edge of cancer therapies. Mol Ther 2021; 29:2396-2411. [PMID: 34146729 PMCID: PMC8353241 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of an aptamer-based therapeutic has rapidly progressed following the first two reports in the 1990s, underscoring the advantages of aptamer drugs associated with their unique binding properties. In 2004, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first therapeutic aptamer for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration, Macugen developed by NeXstar. Since then, eleven aptamers have successfully entered clinical trials for various therapeutic indications. Despite some of the pre-clinical and clinical successes of aptamers as therapeutics, no aptamer has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of cancer. This review highlights the most recent and cutting-edge approaches in the development of aptamers for the treatment of cancer types most refractory to conventional therapies. Herein, we will review (1) the development of aptamers to enhance anti-cancer immunity and as delivery tools for inducing the expression of immunogenic neoantigens; (2) the development of the most promising therapeutic aptamers designed to target the hard-to-treat cancers such as brain tumors; and (3) the development of "carrier" aptamers able to target and penetrate tumors and metastasis, delivering RNA therapeutics to the cytosol and nucleus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Shigdar
- School of Medicine and Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - Brett Schrand
- TCR(2) Therapeutics, Inc., 100 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Paloma H Giangrande
- Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; VP Platform Discovery Sciences, Biology, Wave Life Sciences, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Vittorio de Franciscis
- Institute of Genetic and Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Milan, Italy; Initiative for RNA Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Liu X, Chen X, Xiao M, Zhu Y, Gong R, Liu J, Zeng Q, Xu C, Chen X, Wang F, Cao K. RANBP2 Activates O-GlcNAcylation through Inducing CEBPα-Dependent OGA Downregulation to Promote Hepatocellular Carcinoma Malignant Phenotypes. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3475. [PMID: 34298689 PMCID: PMC8304650 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
O-GlcNAcylation is an important post-translational modification (PTM) jointly controlled by O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) and O-GlcNAcase (OGA). Aberrant hyper-O-GlcNAcylation is reported to yield hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) malignancy, but the underlying mechanisms of the OGT/OGA imbalance responsible for HCC tumorigenesis remain largely unknown. Here, we report that RAN-binding protein 2 (RANBP2), one of the small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) E3 ligases, contributed to malignant phenotypes in HCC. RANBP2 was found to facilitate CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (CEBPα) SUMOylation and degradation by direct interplay with CEBPα. As a transcriptional factor, CEBPα was verified to augment OGA transcription, and further experiments demonstrated that RANBP2 enhanced the O-GlcNAc level by downregulating OGA transcription while not affecting OGT expression. Importantly, we provided in vitro and in vivo evidence of HCC malignant phenotypes that RANBP2 triggered through an imbalance of OGT/OGA and subsequent higher O-GlcNAcylation events for oncogenic proteins such as peroxisome proliferative-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PGC1α) in a CEBPα-dependent manner. Altogether, our results show a novel molecular mechanism whereby RANBP2 regulates its function through CEBPα-dependent OGA downregulation to induce a global change in the hyper-O-GlcNAcylation of genes, such as PGC1α, encouraging the further study of promising implications for HCC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Liu
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (X.L.); (X.C.); (M.X.); (Y.Z.)
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (R.G.); (C.X.); (X.C.); (F.W.)
| | - Xingyu Chen
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (X.L.); (X.C.); (M.X.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Mengqing Xiao
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (X.L.); (X.C.); (M.X.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yuxing Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (X.L.); (X.C.); (M.X.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Renjie Gong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (R.G.); (C.X.); (X.C.); (F.W.)
| | - Jianye Liu
- Department of Urology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China;
| | - Qinghai Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China;
| | - Canxia Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (R.G.); (C.X.); (X.C.); (F.W.)
| | - Xiong Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (R.G.); (C.X.); (X.C.); (F.W.)
| | - Fen Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (R.G.); (C.X.); (X.C.); (F.W.)
| | - Ke Cao
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China; (X.L.); (X.C.); (M.X.); (Y.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ghanbarian H, Aghamiri S, Eftekhary M, Wagner N, Wagner KD. Small Activating RNAs: Towards the Development of New Therapeutic Agents and Clinical Treatments. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030591. [PMID: 33800164 PMCID: PMC8001863 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Small double-strand RNA (dsRNA) molecules can activate endogenous genes via an RNA-based promoter targeting mechanism. RNA activation (RNAa) is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism present in diverse eukaryotic organisms ranging from nematodes to humans. Small activating RNAs (saRNAs) involved in RNAa have been successfully used to activate gene expression in cultured cells, and thereby this emergent technique might allow us to develop various biotechnological applications, without the need to synthesize hazardous construct systems harboring exogenous DNA sequences. Accordingly, this thematic issue aims to provide insights into how RNAa cellular machinery can be harnessed to activate gene expression leading to a more effective clinical treatment of various diseases.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Brain/cytology
- Brain/growth & development
- Brain/metabolism
- Genetic Therapy/methods
- Humans
- MicroRNAs/genetics
- MicroRNAs/metabolism
- Muscle Development/genetics
- Muscular Atrophy, Spinal/genetics
- Muscular Atrophy, Spinal/metabolism
- Muscular Atrophy, Spinal/pathology
- Muscular Atrophy, Spinal/therapy
- Myocardium/cytology
- Myocardium/metabolism
- Myocytes, Cardiac/cytology
- Myocytes, Cardiac/metabolism
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism
- Neoplasms/genetics
- Neoplasms/metabolism
- Neoplasms/pathology
- Neoplasms/therapy
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/genetics
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/metabolism
- Neurogenesis/genetics
- Neurons/cytology
- Neurons/metabolism
- Promoter Regions, Genetic
- RNA, Double-Stranded/genetics
- RNA, Double-Stranded/metabolism
- RNA, Double-Stranded/therapeutic use
- RNA, Small Untranslated/genetics
- RNA, Small Untranslated/metabolism
- RNA, Small Untranslated/therapeutic use
- Survival of Motor Neuron 1 Protein/genetics
- Survival of Motor Neuron 1 Protein/metabolism
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Ghanbarian
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19857-17443, Iran;
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran;
| | - Shahin Aghamiri
- Student Research Committee, Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran;
| | - Mohamad Eftekhary
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran;
| | - Nicole Wagner
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, INSERM, iBV, 06107 Nice, France
- Correspondence: (N.W.); (K.-D.W.); Tel.: +33-493-3776-65 (K.-D.W.)
| | - Kay-Dietrich Wagner
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, INSERM, iBV, 06107 Nice, France
- Correspondence: (N.W.); (K.-D.W.); Tel.: +33-493-3776-65 (K.-D.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lyu Z, Ding L, Tintaru A, Peng L. Self-Assembling Supramolecular Dendrimers for Biomedical Applications: Lessons Learned from Poly(amidoamine) Dendrimers. Acc Chem Res 2020; 53:2936-2949. [PMID: 33275845 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.0c00589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Dendrimers, notable for their well-defined radial structures with numerous terminal functionalities, hold great promise for biomedical applications such as drug delivery, diagnostics, and therapeutics. However, their translation into clinical use has been greatly impeded by their challenging stepwise synthesis and difficult purification.To circumvent these obstacles, we have pioneered a self-assembly approach to constructing noncovalent supramolecular dendrimers using small amphiphilic dendrimer building units which can be easily synthesized and purified. By virtue of their amphipathic nature, the small amphiphilic dendrimers are able to self-assemble and generate large supramolecular dendrimers via noncovalent weak interactions such as van der Waals forces, H bonds, and electrostatic interactions. The so-created noncovalent dendrimers can mimic covalent dendrimers not only in terms of the radial structural feature emanating from a central core but also in their capacity to deliver drugs and imaging agents for biomedical applications. The noncovalent supramolecular dendrimers can be easily synthesized and modulated with regard to size, shape, and properties by varying the nature of the hydrophobic and hydrophilic entities as well as the dendrimer generation and terminal functionalities, ensuring their adaptability to specific applications. In particular, the dendritic structure of the amphiphilic building units permits the creation of large void spaces within the formed supramolecular dendrimers for the physical encapsulation of drugs, while the large number of surface functionalities can be exploited for both physical and chemical conjugation of pharmaceutic agents for drug delivery.Poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers are the most intensively studied for biomedical applications by virtue of their excellent biocompatibility imparted by their peptide-mimicking amide backbones and numerous interior and terminal amine functionalities. We present a short overview of our self-assembly strategy for constructing supramolecular PAMAM dendrimers for biomedical applications. Specifically, we start with the introduction of dendrimers and their synthesis, focusing on the innovative self-assembly synthesis of supramolecular dendrimers. We then detail the representative examples of the noncovalent supramolecular PAMAM dendrimers established in our group for the delivery of anticancer drugs, nucleic acid therapeutics, and imaging agents, either within the dendrimer interior or at the dendrimer terminals on the surface. Some of the supramolecular dendrimer nanosystems exhibit outstanding performance, excelling the corresponding clinical anticancer therapeutics and imaging agents. This self-assembly approach to creating supramolecular dendrimers is completely novel in concept yet easy to implement in practice, offering a fresh perspective for exploiting the advantageous features of dendrimers in biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenbin Lyu
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille (CINaM), UMR 7325, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, 13288 Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, Institut de Chimie Radicalaire (ICR), UMR 7273, 13013 Marseille, France
| | - Ling Ding
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille (CINaM), UMR 7325, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, 13288 Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, Centre de Résonance Magnétique Biologique et Médicale (CRMBM), UMR 7339, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Aura Tintaru
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, Institut de Chimie Radicalaire (ICR), UMR 7273, 13013 Marseille, France
| | - Ling Peng
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille (CINaM), UMR 7325, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, 13288 Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Li R, Song S, He X, Shi X, Sun Z, Li Z, Song J. Relationship Between Fibrinogen to Albumin Ratio and Prognosis of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Cancer Manag Res 2020; 12:8643-8651. [PMID: 32982455 PMCID: PMC7509338 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s271171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The fibrinogen to albumin ratio (FAR) is an important parameter that reflects the coagulation state, systemic inflammation, and nutritional status of a patient and plays an essential role in tumor progression. Here, we evaluate the prognostic significance of FAR in gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients that underwent radical surgery. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the data of 227 GIST patients that underwent radical surgery in Beijing Hospital from October 2004 to July 2018. We drew a curve of receiver operating characteristics to confirm the optimal critical values for hemoglobin (Hb), prognostic nutrition index (PNI), and FAR. Cox regression analysis and the Kaplan–Meier method were used to assess the prognostic factors. Results The FAR optimal critical value for postoperative recurrence-free survival (RFS) was 0.09. Many significant factors, including approach, the location and size of the tumor, mitotic index, risk classification, Hb levels, PNI, and recurrence, affect FAR. Multivariate analysis indicated that for patients with GISTs who underwent surgery, the tumor location (hazard ratio [HR]=3.393, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.539–7.479, P=0.002), mitotic index (HR=4.788, 95% CI: 1.836–12.486, P=0.001), tumor rupture (HR=10.954, 95% CI: 2.170–55.296, P=0.004), and FAR (HR=3.093, 95% CI: 1.303–7.339, P=0.010) were independent factors affecting RFS. Moreover, the FAR remained of prognostic significance for GIST stratified by subgroup analysis. Conclusion Preoperative FAR is a reliable marker for evaluating the prognosis of GIST, the prognostic ability of FAR is significantly better than Hb and PNI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Peking University Fifth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Shibo Song
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuwen He
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Peking University Fifth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaolei Shi
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Peking University Fifth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Peking University Fifth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhe Li
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Peking University Fifth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinghai Song
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Peking University Fifth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Muthusami S, Ramachandran IK, Babu KN, Krishnamoorthy S, Guruswamy A, Queimado L, Chaudhuri G, Ramachandran I. Role of Inflammation in the Development of Colorectal Cancer. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2020; 21:77-90. [PMID: 32901590 DOI: 10.2174/1871530320666200909092908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Chronic inflammation can lead to the development of many diseases, including cancer. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that includes both ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohnmp's disease (CD) are risk factors for the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). Many cytokines produced primarily by the gut immune cells either during or in response to localized inflammation in the colon and rectum are known to stimulate the complex interactions between the different cell types in the gut environment resulting in acute inflammation. Subsequently, chronic inflammation, together with genetic and epigenetic changes, have been shown to lead to the development and progression of CRC. Various cell types present in the colon, such as enterocytes, Paneth cells, goblet cells, and macrophages, express receptors for inflammatory cytokines and respond to tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), IL-6, and other cytokines. Among the several cytokines produced, TNF-α and IL-1β are the key pro-inflammatory molecules that play critical roles in the development of CRC. The current review is intended to consolidate the published findings to focus on the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely TNF-α and IL-1β, on inflammation (and the altered immune response) in the gut, to better understand the development of CRC in IBD, using various experimental model systems, preclinical and clinical studies. Moreover, this review also highlights the current therapeutic strategies available (monotherapy and combination therapy) to alleviate the symptoms or treat inflammation-associated CRC by using monoclonal antibodies or aptamers to block pro-inflammatory molecules, inhibitors of tyrosine kinases in the inflammatory signaling cascade, competitive inhibitors of pro-inflammatory molecules, and the nucleic acid drugs like small activating RNAs (saRNAs) or microRNA (miRNA) mimics to activate tumor suppressor or repress oncogene/pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sridhar Muthusami
- Department of Biochemistry, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore 641 021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Kokelavani Nampalli Babu
- Department of Biochemistry, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore 641 021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sneha Krishnamoorthy
- Department of Biochemistry, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore 641 021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Akash Guruswamy
- University of Missouri- Kansas City, College of Medicine, Kansas City, MO 64110, United States
| | - Lurdes Queimado
- Departments of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Cell Biology, Pediatrics, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, United States
| | - Gautam Chaudhuri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Ilangovan Ramachandran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ashrafizadeh M, Hushmandi K, Rahmani Moghadam E, Zarrin V, Hosseinzadeh Kashani S, Bokaie S, Najafi M, Tavakol S, Mohammadinejad R, Nabavi N, Hsieh CL, Zarepour A, Zare EN, Zarrabi A, Makvandi P. Progress in Delivery of siRNA-Based Therapeutics Employing Nano-Vehicles for Treatment of Prostate Cancer. Bioengineering (Basel) 2020; 7:E91. [PMID: 32784981 PMCID: PMC7552721 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering7030091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) accounts for a high number of deaths in males with no available curative treatments. Patients with PCa are commonly diagnosed in advanced stages due to the lack of symptoms in the early stages. Recently, the research focus was directed toward gene editing in cancer therapy. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) intervention is considered as a powerful tool for gene silencing (knockdown), enabling the suppression of oncogene factors in cancer. This strategy is applied to the treatment of various cancers including PCa. The siRNA can inhibit proliferation and invasion of PCa cells and is able to promote the anti-tumor activity of chemotherapeutic agents. However, the off-target effects of siRNA therapy remarkably reduce its efficacy in PCa therapy. To date, various carriers were designed to improve the delivery of siRNA and, among them, nanoparticles are of importance. Nanoparticles enable the targeted delivery of siRNAs and enhance their potential in the downregulation of target genes of interest. Additionally, nanoparticles can provide a platform for the co-delivery of siRNAs and anti-tumor drugs, resulting in decreased growth and migration of PCa cells. The efficacy, specificity, and delivery of siRNAs are comprehensively discussed in this review to direct further studies toward using siRNAs and their nanoscale-delivery systems in PCa therapy and perhaps other cancer types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 5166616471, Iran;
| | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology & Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran 1419963114, Iran; (K.H.); (S.B.)
| | - Ebrahim Rahmani Moghadam
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7134814336, Iran;
| | - Vahideh Zarrin
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7134814336, Iran;
| | | | - Saied Bokaie
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology & Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran 1419963114, Iran; (K.H.); (S.B.)
| | - Masoud Najafi
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department, School of Paramedical Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6715847141, Iran;
| | - Shima Tavakol
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614525, Iran;
| | - Reza Mohammadinejad
- Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kermaan 55425147, Iran;
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Research Services, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada;
| | - Chia-Ling Hsieh
- Ph.D. Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei City 110, Taiwan;
| | - Atefeh Zarepour
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan 8174673441, Iran;
| | | | - Ali Zarrabi
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
- Center of Excellence for Functional Surfaces and Interfaces (EFSUN), Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Tuzla, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
| | - Pooyan Makvandi
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Centre for Micro-BioRobotics, viale Rinaldo Piaggio 34, 56025 Pontedera, Pisa, Italy
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz 61537-53843, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sarker D, Plummer R, Meyer T, Sodergren MH, Basu B, Chee CE, Huang KW, Palmer DH, Ma YT, Evans TRJ, Spalding DRC, Pai M, Sharma R, Pinato DJ, Spicer J, Hunter S, Kwatra V, Nicholls JP, Collin D, Nutbrown R, Glenny H, Fairbairn S, Reebye V, Voutila J, Dorman S, Andrikakou P, Lloyd P, Felstead S, Vasara J, Habib R, Wood C, Saetrom P, Huber HE, Blakey DC, Rossi JJ, Habib N. MTL-CEBPA, a Small Activating RNA Therapeutic Upregulating C/EBP-α, in Patients with Advanced Liver Cancer: A First-in-Human, Multicenter, Open-Label, Phase I Trial. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 26:3936-3946. [PMID: 32357963 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-0414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Transcription factor C/EBP-α (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha) acts as a master regulator of hepatic and myeloid functions and multiple oncogenic processes. MTL-CEBPA is a first-in-class small activating RNA oligonucleotide drug that upregulates C/EBP-α. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a phase I, open-label, dose-escalation trial of MTL-CEBPA in adults with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with cirrhosis, or resulting from nonalcoholic steatohepatitis or with liver metastases. Patients received intravenous MTL-CEBPA once a week for 3 weeks followed by a rest period of 1 week per treatment cycle in the dose-escalation phase (3+3 design). RESULTS Thirty-eight participants have been treated across six dose levels (28-160 mg/m2) and three dosing schedules. Thirty-four patients were evaluable for safety endpoints at 28 days. MTL-CEBPA treatment-related adverse events were not associated with dose, and no maximum dose was reached across the three schedules evaluated. Grade 3 treatment-related adverse events occurred in nine (24%) patients. In 24 patients with HCC evaluable for efficacy, an objective tumor response was achieved in one patient [4%; partial response (PR) for over 2 years] and stable disease (SD) in 12 (50%). After discontinuation of MTL-CEBPA, seven patients were treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs); three patients had a complete response with one further PR and two with SD. CONCLUSIONS MTL-CEBPA is the first saRNA in clinical trials and demonstrates an acceptable safety profile and potential synergistic efficacy with TKIs in HCC. These encouraging phase I data validate targeting of C/EBP-α and have prompted MTL-CEBPA + sorafenib combination studies in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth Plummer
- Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Meyer
- University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mikael H Sodergren
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Bristi Basu
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Cheng Ean Chee
- National University Cancer Institute Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Daniel H Palmer
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool and Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Yuk Ting Ma
- University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - T R Jeff Evans
- University of Glasgow, Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Duncan R C Spalding
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Madhava Pai
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rohini Sharma
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David J Pinato
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Joanna P Nicholls
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Vikash Reebye
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., London, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Voutila
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Pinelopi Andrikakou
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Lloyd
- King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Chris Wood
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., London, United Kingdom
| | - Pal Saetrom
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Department of Computer and Information Science, Bioinformatics Core Facility-BioCore, K.G. Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NTNU, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | | | - John J Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California
| | - Nagy Habib
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Developing small activating RNA as a therapeutic: current challenges and promises. Ther Deliv 2020; 10:151-164. [PMID: 30909853 DOI: 10.4155/tde-2018-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA activation (RNAa) allows specific gene upregulation mediated by a small activating RNA (saRNA). Harnessing this process would help in developing novel therapeutics for undruggable diseases. Since its discovery in mid 2000s, improvements of saRNA design, synthetic chemistry and understanding of the biology have matured the way to apply RNAa. Indeed, MiNA therapeutics Ltd has conducted the first RNAa clinical trial for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma patients with promising outcomes. However, to fully realize the RNAa potential better saRNA delivery strategies are needed to target other diseases. Currently, saRNA can be delivered in vivo by lipid nanoparticles, dendrimers, lipid and polymer hybrids and aptamers. Further developing these delivery technologies and novel application of RNAa will prove to be invaluable for new treatment development.
Collapse
|
25
|
Chao J, Zhao S, Sun H. Dedifferentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Am J Transl Res 2020; 12:2099-2109. [PMID: 32509204 PMCID: PMC7269980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cancer with high morbidity and mortality. Poorer differentiation status indicates worse prognosis of HCC patients. Regain of better differentiation status may improve the prognosis. Differentiation therapy for HCC is based on the fact that agents may reverse the dedifferentiation process from hepatocytes to HCC cells and thus improve tumor differentiation status. Reversal of progenitor-like property and restoration of hepatic characteristics are main objectives of HCC differentiation therapy. Comprehending the mechanisms of HCC dedifferentiation provides ideas for drug design. Diverse dysregulated molecules and signalings cooperatively cause HCC dedifferentiation. Dysregulation of liver enriched transcription factors, especially hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α, was a critical determinant of HCC dedifferentiation. Aberrant pivotal signaling molecules such as transforming factor-β, β-catenin and Yes-associated protein caused disordered signalings, which promoted HCC dedifferentiation. Loss of epithelial morphology during epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) concurred with HCC dedifferentiation. Some EMT-related molecules exerted double-sided role in concurrently inducing EMT and HCC dedifferentiation. Besides, microRNAs (e.g. miR-122 and miR-148a) as well as some impressive proteins (i.e. KLF4, gankyrin and CHD1L) functioned in manipulating HCC differentiation status. Restoring normal expression levels of these molecules could induce HCC differentiation and inhibited malignant tumor behaviors. Based on the knowledge above, some agents have been found effective in lab, but need more data to support their reliability. Additionally, peretinoin as a potential drug is in progress of several phase III clinical trials. It's promising that differentiation therapy for HCC may be a part of options in future HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiashuo Chao
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of MedicineShanghai 200080, China
| | - Senlin Zhao
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai 200032, China
| | - Hongcheng Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of MedicineShanghai 200080, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Dong Y, Chen Y, Zhu D, Shi K, Ma C, Zhang W, Rocchi P, Jiang L, Liu X. Self-assembly of amphiphilic phospholipid peptide dendrimer-based nanovectors for effective delivery of siRNA therapeutics in prostate cancer therapy. J Control Release 2020; 322:416-425. [PMID: 32247806 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) holds great promise for therapeutic applications. However, safe and successful clinical translation essentially requires further advancement of developing efficient delivery systems. Herein, we report that amphiphilic phospholipid peptide dendrimers (AmPPDs) could mediated effective delivery of siRNA targeting Hsp27 for treating castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). AmPPDs bears natural lipid derivative DSPE as the hydrophobic tail and different dendritic l-lysine as the hydrophilic head, capable of compacting siRNA into nanoparticles to protect it from enzymatic degradation. Interestingly, DSPE-KK2, AmPPD bearing smaller hydrophilic dendron, promoting more efficient intracellular uptake and endosome release of the so-formed siRNA complexes, as well as better siRNA releasing ability, ultimately resulting in more potent gene silencing and anticancer effects both in vitro and in vivo. Such outstanding performance of DSPE-KK2 in siRNA delivery may attribute to its optimal balance between the hydrophobic tail and hydrophilic dendritic portion. Our findings provide guidance for the development of safe and effective dendrimer-based siRNA delivery system, thus bringing new hope for combating various diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Dandan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Kangjie Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Chi Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Wenjie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Palma Rocchi
- Inserm, Aix-Marseille Université, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, CNRS, CRCM, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Lei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China.
| | - Xiaoxuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Baboci L, Capolla S, Di Cintio F, Colombo F, Mauro P, Dal Bo M, Argenziano M, Cavalli R, Toffoli G, Macor P. The Dual Role of the Liver in Nanomedicine as an Actor in the Elimination of Nanostructures or a Therapeutic Target. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2020; 2020:4638192. [PMID: 32184825 PMCID: PMC7060440 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4638192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The development of nanostructures for therapeutic purpose is rapidly growing, following the results obtained in vivo in animal models and in the clinical trials. Unfortunately, the potential therapeutic efficacy is not completely exploited, yet. This is mainly due to the fast clearance of the nanostructures in the body. Nanoparticles and the liver have a unique interaction because the liver represents one of the major barriers for drug delivery. This interaction becomes even more relevant and complex when the drug delivery strategies employing nanostructures are proposed for the therapy of liver diseases, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this case, the selective delivery of therapeutic nanoparticles to the tumor microenvironment collides with the tendency of nanostructures to be quickly eliminated by the organ. The design of a new therapeutic approach based on nanoparticles to treat HCC has to particularly take into consideration passive and active mechanisms to avoid or delay liver elimination and to specifically address cancer cells or the cancer microenvironment. This review will analyze the different aspects concerning the dual role of the liver, both as an organ carrying out a clearance activity for the nanostructures and as target for therapeutic strategies for HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Baboci
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO) di Aviano IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Sara Capolla
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO) di Aviano IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Federica Di Cintio
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO) di Aviano IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Federico Colombo
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Prisca Mauro
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Michele Dal Bo
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO) di Aviano IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Monica Argenziano
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Roberta Cavalli
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Toffoli
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO) di Aviano IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Paolo Macor
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO) di Aviano IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Li H, Wang L, Chen L, Zhao H, Cai J, Yao J, Zheng J, Yang Y, Wang G. Prognostic Value of Albumin-to-Alkaline Phosphatase Ratio in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Treated with Liver Transplantation. J Cancer 2020; 11:2171-2180. [PMID: 32127944 PMCID: PMC7052946 DOI: 10.7150/jca.39615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The albumin-to-alkaline phosphatase ratio (AAPR) is a newly developed index which was used to predict prognosis of HCC patients. However, its prognostic role in HCC patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between AAPR and prognosis of these patients. Methods: A total of 210 patients who underwent LT from January 2003 to January 2014 were retrospectively analyzed (149 for discovery and 61 for validation). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the discriminative ability of the AAPR in predicting long-term survival. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) was calculated to compare the accuracy of different factors. Results: Patients with high AAPR level were associated with less ascites rate (30.6% versus 53.2%, P=0.033) as well as more frequencies of Child-Pugh class A (73.6% versus 35.1%, P=0.001). Univariate and multivariate analyses suggested the AAPR was independent prognostic factor in predicting overall survival (HR: 0.585, 95% CI: 0.363-0.941, P=0.027). Validation cohort confirmed prognostic value of AAPR. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that reduced AAPR level was associated with worse prognosis in HCC patients categorized in Child-Pugh class A (P=0.029). The AUCs of the AAPR were 0.710 and 0.744 in predicting 3-year and 5-year survival outcomes, respectively. Conclusions: The study showed in two independent cohorts of HCC patients treated by LT that elevated AAPR was associated with better OS. As a low-cost routine laboratory test, it should be considered as biomarker in the clinical management of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China.,Department of Liver Surgery, Liver Transplantation Division, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver disease biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver disease biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver disease biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China
| | - Jianye Cai
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver disease biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China
| | - Jia Yao
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver disease biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China
| | - Jun Zheng
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver disease biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver disease biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China
| | - Genshu Wang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver disease biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Zeng C, Sang Y, Wang FY, Zhuang SM. Opposing roles of C/EBPα and eEF1A1 in Sp1-regulated miR-122 transcription. RNA Biol 2020; 17:202-210. [PMID: 31561740 PMCID: PMC6973339 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2019.1673656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously showed that miR-122 was frequently downregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and C/EBPα transactivated miR-122 expression. In this study, we found that Sp1 bound to the miR-122 promoter at two different sites. Interestingly, either inhibition or overexpression of Sp1 could decrease the miR-122 promoter activity and the cellular miR-122 level in hepatoma cells. Further investigations disclosed that Sp1 cooperated with C/EBPα to induce miR-122 transcription by binding to the positive regulatory site D in the miR-122 promoter, whereas eEF1A1 interacted with Sp1 to bind to the negative regulatory site E and inhibit miR-122 transcription. Significantly, both Sp1 and eEF1A1 levels were enhanced, but C/EBPα and miR-122 expression were reduced in HCC tissues. Knockdown of eEF1A1 enhanced miR-122 level and inhibited cell growth, and these effects were abrogated when Sp1 was silenced. Consistently, the promoter activity enhanced by site E deletion was attenuated by silencing Sp1. Moreover, reduction of miR-122 resulted from Sp1 overexpression was rescued by coexpressing C/EBPα. These data suggest that C/EBPα and eEF1A1 may play opposing roles in Sp1-regulating miR-122 transcription, and the eEF1A1 upregulation accompanied by C/EBPα downregulation in HCC may switch the regulatory functions of Sp1 and led to reduced miR-122 transcription. These findings highlight the complex regulatory network of miR-122 expression and its significance in hepatocarcinogenesis.Abbreviations: MiRNA: microRNA; HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma; eEF1A1: eukaryote translation elongation factor 1A1; siRNA: small interfering RNA; qPCR: real-time quantitative RT-PCR; EMSA: electrophoretic mobility shift assay; ChIP: chromatin immunoprecipitation; TSS: transcription start site.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunxian Zeng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Ye Sang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Feng-Yi Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Shi-Mei Zhuang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Liver Disease of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Anwanwan D, Singh SK, Singh S, Saikam V, Singh R. Challenges in liver cancer and possible treatment approaches. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1873:188314. [PMID: 31682895 PMCID: PMC6981221 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2019.188314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 677] [Impact Index Per Article: 169.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Globally, liver cancer is the most frequent fatal malignancy; in the United States, it ranks fifth. Patients are often diagnosed with liver cancer in advanced stages, contributing to its poor prognosis. Of all liver cancer cases, >90% are hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) for which chemotherapy and immunotherapy are the best options for therapy. For liver cancer patients, new treatment options are necessary. Use of natural compounds and/or nanotechnology may provide patients with better outcomes with lower systemic toxicity and fewer side effects. Improved treatments can lead to better prognoses. Finally, in this review, we present some of the problems and current treatment options contributing to the poor outcomes for patients with liver cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Anwanwan
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Cancer Health Equity Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
| | - Santosh Kumar Singh
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Cancer Health Equity Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
| | - Shriti Singh
- Department of Kriya Sharir, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP 221 005, India
| | - Varma Saikam
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Therapeutics and Diagnostics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA
| | - Rajesh Singh
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Cancer Health Equity Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Song XD, Wang YN, Zhang AL, Liu B. Advances in research on the interaction between inflammation and cancer. J Int Med Res 2019; 48:300060519895347. [PMID: 31885347 PMCID: PMC7686609 DOI: 10.1177/0300060519895347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is the body's response to cell damage. Cancer is a general
term that describes all malignant tumours. There are no confirmed data
on cancer-related inflammation, but some research suggests that up to
50% of cancers may be linked to inflammation, which has led to the
concept of ‘cancer-associated inflammation’. Although some cancer
patients do not appear to have a chronic inflammatory background,
there might be inflammatory cell infiltration in their cancer tissues.
The continuation of the inflammatory response plays an important role
in the initiation, promotion, malignant transformation, invasion and
metastasis of cancer. Anti-inflammatory therapy has been shown to have
some effects on the prevention and treatment of cancer, which supports
a pathogenic relationship between inflammation and cancer. This review
describes the interaction between inflammation and tumour development
and the main mechanism of regulation of the inflammatory response
during tumour development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Da Song
- Department of Urinary Surgery, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing Hospital, National Centre of Gerontology, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Ni Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Ai-Li Zhang
- Department of Urinary Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Urinary Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Yoon S, Huang KW, Andrikakou P, Vasconcelos D, Swiderski P, Reebye V, Sodergren M, Habib N, Rossi JJ. Targeted Delivery of C/EBPα-saRNA by RNA Aptamers Shows Anti-tumor Effects in a Mouse Model of Advanced PDAC. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 18:142-154. [PMID: 31546149 PMCID: PMC6796740 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies; it preferentially metastasizes to the liver and is the main cause of death from this disease. In previous studies, small activating RNA against CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-α (C/EBPα-saRNA) demonstrated efficacy of PDAC in a local subcutaneous tumor model. In this study, we focused on the efficacy of C/EBPα-saRNA in advanced stage PDAC. For targeted delivery, we selected a new anti-transferrin receptor aptamer (TR14), which demonstrated a high binding affinity to target proteins. The TR14 aptamer was internalized with clathrin-mediated endocytosis, distributed in early endosome, late endosome, and lysosome subcellularly. To investigate its anti-tumor effects to advanced PDAC, we conjugated C/EBPα-saRNA to TR14. Treatment of pancreatic cancer cells with the conjugates upregulated expression of C/EBPα and its downstream target p21, and inhibited cell proliferation. For in vivo assays, we established an advanced PDAC mouse model by engrafting luciferase reporter-PANC-1 cells directly into the livers of non-obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency (NOD/SCID) mice. After treatment of aptamer-C/EBPα conjugates, we observed significant reduction of tumor growth in this advanced PDAC mouse model. Combinational treatment of the conjugates with gemcitabine also demonstrated enhanced anti-tumor effects in advanced PDAC. This suggests that aptamer-C/EBPα conjugates could be used as an adjuvant, along with other conventional anti-cancer drugs in advanced PDAC. In conclusion, targeted delivery of C/EBPα-saRNAs by aptamers might have potential therapeutic effects in advanced PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sorah Yoon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Kai-Wen Huang
- Department of Surgery and Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10051, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Pinelopi Andrikakou
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | | | - Piotr Swiderski
- DNA/RNA Synthesis Core Facility, Department of Molecular Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | | | - Mikael Sodergren
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Nagy Habib
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - John J Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Liver Activation of Hepatocellular Nuclear Factor-4α by Small Activating RNA Rescues Dyslipidemia and Improves Metabolic Profile. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 19:361-370. [PMID: 31877412 PMCID: PMC6938799 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) culminates in insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Because there are no approved pharmacological treatment agents for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and NAFLD, different signaling pathways are under investigation for drug development with the focus on metabolic pathways. Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4-alpha (HNF4A) is at the center of a complex transcriptional network where its disruption is directly linked to glucose and lipid metabolism. Resetting HNF4A expression in NAFLD is therefore crucial for re-establishing normal liver function. Here, small activating RNA (saRNA) specific for upregulating HNF4A was injected into rats fed a high-fat diet for 16 weeks. Intravenous delivery was carried out using 5-(G5)-triethanolamine-core polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers. We observed a significant reduction in liver triglyceride, increased high-density lipoprotein/low-density lipoprotein (HDL/LDL) ratio, and decreased white adipose tissue/body weight ratio, all parameters to suggest that HNF4A-saRNA treatment induced a favorable metabolic profile. Proteomic analysis showed significant regulation of genes involved in sphingolipid metabolism, fatty acid β-oxidation, ketogenesis, detoxification of reactive oxygen species, and lipid transport. We demonstrate that HNF4A activation by oligonucleotide therapy may represent a novel single agent for the treatment of NAFLD and insulin resistance.
Collapse
|
34
|
Zhang C, Li Y, Ji R, Zhang W, Zhang C, Dan Y, Qian H, He A. The Prognostic Significance Of Pretreatment Albumin/alkaline Phosphatase Ratio In Patients With Stage IB-IIA Cervical Cancer. Onco Targets Ther 2019; 12:9559-9568. [PMID: 32009792 PMCID: PMC6859168 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s225294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pretreatment albumin/alkaline phosphatase ratio (AAPR) has been discussed about its prognostic value in several malignancies, whereas its role in cervical cancer remains unclear. In this study, we attempt to explore the prognostic significance of the AAPR in stage IB-IIA cervical cancer patients who underwent a radical hysterectomy. Patients and methods A total of 230 cervical cancer patients were enrolled in this retrospective study. The threshold value of AAPR was determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate analysis were performed to identify independent prognostic predictors of disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Results The optimal cut-off value of the preoperative AAPR was 0.68. Patients with AAPR<0.68 showed obviously inferior OS and DFS than those with AAPR>0.68 according to Kaplan-Meier curves (DFS: P = 0.011; OS: P = 0.017). In multivariate analysis, the preoperative AAPR showed to be an independent predictive factor for disease-free survival (DFS: P = 0.015) and overall survival (OS: P = 0.019). Moreover, subgroup analysis revealed that the lower AAPR was correlated with worse prognosis in patients with histologic grade I-II; but in those with histologic grade III, there was no significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion Preoperative AAPR was a potentially valuable prognostic index in stage IB-IIA cervical cancer patients. Further prospective studies are required to validate its prognostic value.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Can Zhang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Ji
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiling Zhang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenfei Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Youli Dan
- Department of Oncology, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyan Qian
- Cancer Research Centre Nantong, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Aiqin He
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
The RNA interference (RNAi) pathway regulates mRNA stability and translation in nearly all human cells. Small double-stranded RNA molecules can efficiently trigger RNAi silencing of specific genes, but their therapeutic use has faced numerous challenges involving safety and potency. However, August 2018 marked a new era for the field, with the US Food and Drug Administration approving patisiran, the first RNAi-based drug. In this Review, we discuss key advances in the design and development of RNAi drugs leading up to this landmark achievement, the state of the current clinical pipeline and prospects for future advances, including novel RNAi pathway agents utilizing mechanisms beyond post-translational RNAi silencing.
Collapse
|
36
|
Evolution from Covalent to Self-Assembled PAMAM-Based Dendrimers as Nanovectors for siRNA Delivery in Cancer by Coupled In Silico-Experimental Studies. Part I: Covalent siRNA Nanocarriers. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:pharmaceutics11070351. [PMID: 31323863 PMCID: PMC6680565 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11070351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) represent a new approach towards the inhibition of gene expression; as such, they have rapidly emerged as promising therapeutics for a plethora of important human pathologies including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and other disorders of a genetic etiology. However, the clinical translation of RNA interference (RNAi) requires safe and efficient vectors for siRNA delivery into cells. Dendrimers are attractive nanovectors to serve this purpose, as they present a unique, well-defined architecture and exhibit cooperative and multivalent effects at the nanoscale. This short review presents a brief introduction to RNAi-based therapeutics, the advantages offered by dendrimers as siRNA nanocarriers, and the remarkable results we achieved with bio-inspired, structurally flexible covalent dendrimers. In the companion paper, we next report our recent efforts in designing, characterizing and testing a series of self-assembled amphiphilic dendrimers and their related structural alterations to achieve unprecedented efficient siRNA delivery both in vitro and in vivo.
Collapse
|
37
|
Cast A, Kumbaji M, D'Souza A, Rodriguez K, Gupta A, Karns R, Timchenko L, Timchenko N. Liver Proliferation Is an Essential Driver of Fibrosis in Mouse Models of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Hepatol Commun 2019; 3:1036-1049. [PMID: 31388625 PMCID: PMC6671863 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) involves development of hepatic steatosis, fibrosis, and steatohepatitis. Because hepatic steatosis appears first in NAFLD animal models, the current therapy development focuses on inhibition of hepatic steatosis, suggesting that further steps of NAFLD will be also inhibited. In this report, we show that the first event of NAFLD is liver proliferation, which drives fibrosis in NAFLD. We have deleted a strong driver of liver proliferation, gankyrin (Gank), and examined development of NAFLD in this animal model under conditions of a high‐fat diet (HFD). We found that proliferating livers of wild‐type mice develop fibrosis; however, livers of Gank liver‐specific knockout (GLKO) mice with reduced proliferation show no fibrosis. Interestingly, an HFD causes the development of strong macrovesicular steatosis in GLKO mice and is surprisingly associated with improvements in animal health. We observed that key regulators of liver biology CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα), hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α), p53, and CUG repeat binding protein 1 (CUGBP1) are elevated due to the deletion of Gank and that these proteins support liver functions leading to healthy conditions in GLKO mice under an HFD. To examine the role of one of these proteins in the protection of liver from fibrosis, we used CUGBP1‐S302A knockin mice, which have a reduction of CUGBP1 due to increased degradation of this mutant by Gank. These studies show that reduction of CUGBP1 inhibits steatosis and facilitates liver proliferation, leading to fibrosis and the development of liver tumors. Conclusion: Liver proliferation drives fibrosis, while steatosis might play a protective role. Therapy for NAFLD should include inhibition of proliferation rather than inhibition of steatosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Cast
- Department of Surgery Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati OH
| | - Meenasri Kumbaji
- Department of Surgery Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati OH
| | - Amber D'Souza
- Department of Surgery Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati OH
| | - Katherine Rodriguez
- Department of Surgery Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati OH
| | - Anita Gupta
- Department of Pathology Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati OH
| | - Rebekah Karns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati OH
| | - Lubov Timchenko
- Department of Neurology Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati OH
| | - Nikolai Timchenko
- Department of Surgery Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati OH
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wang WT, Han C, Sun YM, Chen TQ, Chen YQ. Noncoding RNAs in cancer therapy resistance and targeted drug development. J Hematol Oncol 2019; 12:55. [PMID: 31174564 PMCID: PMC6556047 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-019-0748-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) represent a large segment of the human transcriptome and have been shown to play important roles in cellular physiology and disease pathogenesis. Increasing evidence on the functional roles of ncRNAs in cancer progression emphasizes the potential of ncRNAs for cancer treatment. Here, we summarize the roles of ncRNAs in disease relapse and resistance to current standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy; the current research progress on ncRNAs for clinical and/or potential translational applications, including the identification of ncRNAs as therapeutic targets; therapeutic approaches for ncRNA targeting; and ncRNA delivery strategies in potential clinical translation. Several ongoing clinical trials of novel RNA-based therapeutics were also emphasized. Finally, we discussed the perspectives and obstacles to different target combinations, delivery strategies, and system designs for ncRNA application. The next approved nucleic acid drug to treat cancer patients may realistically be on the horizon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Tao Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Cai Han
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Yu-Meng Sun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Tian-Qi Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Yue-Qin Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China. .,School of Life Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Yoon S, Rossi JJ. Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer by Aptamer Conjugated C/EBPα-saRNA. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019. [PMID: 28639199 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-4310-9_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is estimated to become the second-leading cause of cancer-related mortality by 2020. While the death rates of most other cancers continue to decline recently, the death rates of pancreatic cancer are still increasing, with less than 5% of patients achieving 5-year survival. Despite great efforts to improve treatment with combinational therapies in pancreatic cancer patients, limited progress has been made. V-Ki-ras2 Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) has been depicted as a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer for many years. However, the clinical outcome of KRAS-directed therapies has not been successful, suggesting that KRAS is an undruggable target. For the new druggable target, epigenetically silenced transcriptional factor C/EBPα (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α), upregulator of a strong inhibitor of cell proliferation (p21), is upregulated by small activating RNA (saRNA) in pancreatic cancer. For the cell type-specific delivery, pancreatic cancer-specific 2'-Fluoropyrimidine RNA-aptamers (2'F-RNAs) are conjugated with C/EBPα-saRNA via sticky bridge sequences. The conjugates of aptamer-C/EBPα-saRNA upregulate the expression of C/EBPα in vitro and inhibit the tumor growth in vivo. It suggests that aptamer-mediated targeted delivery of therapeutic C/EBPα-saRNA might be the effective therapeutics under the current therapeutic modality failure in pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sorah Yoon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E Duarte Rd, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - John J Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E Duarte Rd, Duarte, CA, USA. .,Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E Duarte Rd, Duarte, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
The phenomenon of RNA activation (RNAa) was initially discovered by Li and colleagues about a decade ago. Subsequently, gene activation by exogenously expressed small activating RNA has been demonstrated in different cellular contexts by a number of laboratories. Conceivably, endogenously expressed microRNAs may also utilize RNA activation as a cellular mechanism for gene regulation, which may be dysregulated in disease states such as cancer. RNA activation can be applied to gain-of-function studies and holds great promise for disease intervention. This chapter will discuss examples of promoter-targeting microRNAs discovered in recent years and their pathophysiological relevance. I will also briefly touch upon other novel classes of microRNAs with positive gene regulatory roles, including TATA-box-activating microRNAs and enhancer-associated microRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vera Huang
- Molecular Stethoscope, Inc., 10835 Road to the Cure, Suite 100, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Ramchandran R, Chaluvally-Raghavan P. miRNA-Mediated RNA Activation in Mammalian Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019. [PMID: 28639193 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-4310-9_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNA (miRNA or miR) is a small noncoding RNA molecule ~22 nucleotides in size, which is found in plants, animals, and some viruses. miRNAs are thought to primarily down regulate gene expression by binding to 3' untranslated regions of target transcripts, thereby triggering mRNA cleavage or repression of translation. Recently, evidence has emerged that miRNAs can interact with the promoter and activate gene expression. This mechanism, called RNA activation (RNAa), is a process of transcriptional activation where the direct interaction of miRNA on the promoter triggers the recruitment of transcription factors and RNA-Polymerase-II on the promoter to activate gene transcription. To date, very little is known about the mechanism by which miRNA regulates RNA activation (RNAa) and their role in tumor progression. This is an emerging field in RNA biology. In this chapter, we describe the mechanisms utilized by miRNAs to activate transcription.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramani Ramchandran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Pradeep Chaluvally-Raghavan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA. .,Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Zhou J, Li H, Xia X, Herrera A, Pollock N, Reebye V, Sodergren MH, Dorman S, Littman BH, Doogan D, Huang KW, Habib R, Blakey D, Habib NA, Rossi JJ. Anti-inflammatory Activity of MTL-CEBPA, a Small Activating RNA Drug, in LPS-Stimulated Monocytes and Humanized Mice. Mol Ther 2019; 27:999-1016. [PMID: 30852139 PMCID: PMC6520465 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2019.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive or inappropriate inflammatory responses can cause serious and even fatal diseases. The CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (CEBPA) gene encodes C/EBPα, a transcription factor that plays a fundamental role in controlling maturation of the myeloid lineage and is also expressed during the late phase of inflammatory responses when signs of inflammation are decreasing. MTL-CEBPA, a small activating RNA targeting for upregulation of C/EBPα, is currently being evaluated in a phase 1b trial for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. After dosing, subjects had reduced levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and we therefore hypothesized that MTL-CEBPA has anti-inflammatory potential. The current study was conducted to determine the effects of C/EBPα saRNA - CEBPA-51 - on inflammation in vitro and in vivo after endotoxin challenge. CEBPA-51 led to increased expression of the C/EBPα gene and inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines in THP-1 monocytes previously stimulated by E. coli-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Treatment with MTL-CEBPA in an LPS-challenged humanized mouse model upregulated C/EBPα mRNA, increased neutrophils, and attenuated production of several key pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IFN-γ. In addition, a Luminex analysis of mouse serum revealed that MTL-CEBPA reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Collectively, the data support further investigation of MTL-CEBPA in acute and chronic inflammatory diseases where this mechanism has pathogenic importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiehua Zhou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Haitang Li
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Xin Xia
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Alberto Herrera
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Nicolette Pollock
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Vikash Reebye
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London SW7 5NH, UK
| | - Mikael H Sodergren
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London SW7 5NH, UK
| | - Stephanie Dorman
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London SW7 5NH, UK
| | - Bruce H Littman
- Translational Medicine Associates, LLC, Savannah, GA 31302, USA
| | | | - Kai-Wen Huang
- Department of Surgery and Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | | | | | - Nagy A Habib
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London SW7 5NH, UK; MiNA Therapeutics, Ltd., London W12 0BZ, UK.
| | - John J Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Gao G, Liu C, Jain S, Li D, Wang H, Zhao Y, Liu J. Potential use of aptamers for diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer. J Drug Target 2019; 27:853-865. [PMID: 30596288 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2018.1564924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is highly malignant with a low 5-year survival rate. PC currently does not have good early diagnostic markers and responses poorly to chemotherapeutic drugs. The search for better biomarkers and developing more effective chemotherapy are important ways to improve the healthcare of PC patients. Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acids with high binding affinity and specificity to target molecules. Many aptamers against different forms of cancer including PC have been selected for both diagnostic and therapeutic use. Aptamers can work as ligands to distinguish tumour cells from normal cells. Using cells as selection targets, the obtained aptamers have been used to discover new cancer biomarkers after identification of the binding target. Aptamers have been shown to have antagonists effect on cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. In addition, aptamers have been used as carriers to deliver therapeutic agents to selectively kill PC cells. This review summarises the potential use of aptamers in the diagnosis and treatment of PC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ge Gao
- a Faculty of Laboratory Medicine , Xiangya Medical College, Central South University , Changsha , China.,b Department of Clinical Laboratory , Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | - Can Liu
- a Faculty of Laboratory Medicine , Xiangya Medical College, Central South University , Changsha , China.,b Department of Clinical Laboratory , Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | - Sona Jain
- c Department of Chemistry , Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo , Waterloo , Canada
| | - Dai Li
- c Department of Chemistry , Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo , Waterloo , Canada.,d Department of Pharmacology , Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | - Hai Wang
- a Faculty of Laboratory Medicine , Xiangya Medical College, Central South University , Changsha , China.,b Department of Clinical Laboratory , Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | - Yongxin Zhao
- a Faculty of Laboratory Medicine , Xiangya Medical College, Central South University , Changsha , China.,b Department of Clinical Laboratory , Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | - Juewen Liu
- c Department of Chemistry , Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo , Waterloo , Canada
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Mechanisms involved in the activation of C/EBPα by small activating RNA in hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncogene 2019; 38:3446-3457. [PMID: 30643190 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0665-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is generally accompanied by high mortality and low cure rate. CCAAT enhancer-binding proteins (CEBPs) are transcriptional regulators that play a key role in maintaining liver function. Altered expression of C/EBPα and C/EBPβ occurs in many tumours including HCC. saRNAs are small double-stranded RNAs that enhance target gene expression at the transcriptional level. In this report, we activate CEPBA with saRNAs and suppress CEBPB with siRNAs in cells that represent three different degrees of HCC. We performed functional assays to investigate the effects of enhancing C/EBPα and its downstream targets, p21 and albumin across these lines. We also used Mass-spectrometry (MS) subsequent to a ChIP pull-down assay to characterise the components of the protein complex involved in regulating saRNA function. Putative saRNA interacting protein candidates that were identified by MS were knocked-down with siRNAs to investigate its impact on saRNA activity. We confirmed CEBPA-saRNA decreased proliferation and migration in the differentiated lines (HepG3/Hep3B). The undifferentiated line (PLCPRF5) showed saRNA-induced increase in CEBPA but with no loss in proliferation. This effect was reversed when CEBPB was suppressed with CEBPB-siRNA. When interrogating saRNA mode of action; three saRNA interacting proteins, CTR9, HnRNPA2/B1 and DDX5 were identified by MS. Targeted knock-down of these two proteins (by siRNA) abrogated saRNA activity. This study provides insight into how different HCC lines are affected by CEBPA-saRNAs and that endogenous abundance of CEBPB and saRNA accessory proteins may dictate efficacy of CEBPA-saRNA when used in a therapeutic context.
Collapse
|
45
|
Yoon S, Rossi JJ. Therapeutic Potential of Small Activating RNAs (saRNAs) in Human Cancers. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2018; 19:604-610. [PMID: 29804529 PMCID: PMC6204660 DOI: 10.2174/1389201019666180528084059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Background: RNA is increasingly recognized as a powerful molecule that can be used to control gene expression. Sophisticated, well-engineered RNA-based regulators are being developed as oligotherapeutics. Methods: In particular, small activating RNAs (saRNAs) are promising therapeutic options for targeting human diseases. Numerous saRNAs targeting multiple cancers have been developed in preclinical models. One saRNA targeting C/EBPα is currently undergoing clinical trials in liver cancer. Results and Conclusion: In this review, we describe the current working model of the intracellular mechanism of saRNA, discuss the recent progress of saRNA therapeutics in preclinical and clinical trials, and current advances in targeted delivery using aptamers in detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sorah Yoon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, United States
| | - John J Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, United States.,Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, United States
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Araújo RVD, Santos SDS, Igne Ferreira E, Giarolla J. New Advances in General Biomedical Applications of PAMAM Dendrimers. Molecules 2018; 23:E2849. [PMID: 30400134 PMCID: PMC6278347 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23112849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendrimers are nanoscopic compounds, which are monodispersed, and they are generally considered as homogeneous. PAMAM (polyamidoamine) was introduced in 1985, by Donald A. Tomalia, as a new class of polymers, named 'starburst polymers'. This important contribution of Professor Tomalia opened a new research field involving nanotechnological approaches. From then on, many groups have been using PAMAM for diverse applications in many areas, including biomedical applications. The possibility of either linking drugs and bioactive compounds, or entrapping them into the dendrimer frame can improve many relevant biological properties, such as bioavailability, solubility, and selectivity. Directing groups to reach selective delivery in a specific organ is one of the advanced applications of PAMAM. In this review, structural and safety aspects of PAMAM and its derivatives are discussed, and some relevant applications are briefly presented. Emphasis has been given to gene delivery and targeting drugs, as advanced delivery systems using PAMAM and an incentive for its use on neglected diseases are briefly mentioned.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renan Vinicius de Araújo
- Laboratory of Design and Synthesis of Chemotherapeutics Potentially Active in Neglected Diseases (LAPEN), Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo-USP, 580⁻Building 13, São Paulo SP 05508-900, Brazil.
| | - Soraya da Silva Santos
- Laboratory of Design and Synthesis of Chemotherapeutics Potentially Active in Neglected Diseases (LAPEN), Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo-USP, 580⁻Building 13, São Paulo SP 05508-900, Brazil.
| | - Elizabeth Igne Ferreira
- Laboratory of Design and Synthesis of Chemotherapeutics Potentially Active in Neglected Diseases (LAPEN), Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo-USP, 580⁻Building 13, São Paulo SP 05508-900, Brazil.
| | - Jeanine Giarolla
- Laboratory of Design and Synthesis of Chemotherapeutics Potentially Active in Neglected Diseases (LAPEN), Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo-USP, 580⁻Building 13, São Paulo SP 05508-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Dong Y, Yu T, Ding L, Laurini E, Huang Y, Zhang M, Weng Y, Lin S, Chen P, Marson D, Jiang Y, Giorgio S, Pricl S, Liu X, Rocchi P, Peng L. A Dual Targeting Dendrimer-Mediated siRNA Delivery System for Effective Gene Silencing in Cancer Therapy. J Am Chem Soc 2018; 140:16264-16274. [PMID: 30346764 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.8b10021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) is emerging as a novel therapeutic for treating various diseases, provided a safe and efficient delivery is available. In particular, specific delivery to target cells is critical for achieving high therapeutic efficacy while reducing toxicity. Amphiphilic dendrimers are emerging as novel promising carriers for siRNA delivery by virtue of the combined multivalent cooperativity of dendrimers with the self-assembling property of lipid vectors. Here, we report a ballistic approach for targeted siRNA delivery to cancer cells using an amphiphilic dendrimer equipped with a dual targeting peptide bearing an RGDK warhead. According to the molecular design, the amphiphilic dendrimer was expected to deliver siRNA effectively, while the aim of the targeting peptide was to home in on tumors via interaction of its warhead with integrin and the neuropilin-1 receptor on cancer cells. Coating the positively charged siRNA/dendrimer delivery complex with the negatively charged segment of the targeting peptide via electrostatic interactions led to small and stable nanoparticles which were able to protect siRNA from degradation while maintaining the accessibility of RGDK for targeting cancer cells and preserving the ability of the siRNA to escape from endosomes. The targeted system had enhanced siRNA delivery, stronger gene silencing, and more potent anticancer activity compared to nontargeted or covalent dendrimer-based systems. In addition, neither acute toxicity nor induced inflammation was observed. Consequently, this delivery system constitutes a promising nonviral vector for targeted delivery and can be further developed to provide RNAi-based personalized medicine against cancer. Our study also gives new perspectives on the use of nanotechnology based on self-assembling dendrimers in various biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Drug Discovery, Center of Advanced Pharmaceutics and Biomaterials , China Pharmaceutical University , 24 Tong Jia Xiang , 210009 Nanjing , People's Republic of China
| | - Tianzhu Yu
- Aix-Marseille Université , CNRS, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille, UMR 7325, "Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer", 13288 Marseille , France
| | - Ling Ding
- Aix-Marseille Université , CNRS, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille, UMR 7325, "Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer", 13288 Marseille , France
| | - Erik Laurini
- Molecular Biology and Nanotechnology Laboratory (MolBNL@UniTS), DEA , University of Trieste , 34127 Trieste , Italy
| | - Yuanyu Huang
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science and School of Life Science , Beijing Institute of Technology , Beijing 100081 , People's Republic of China.,School of Pharmacy , Hunan University of Chinese Medicine , Changsha 410208 , People's Republic of China
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science and School of Life Science , Beijing Institute of Technology , Beijing 100081 , People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhua Weng
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science and School of Life Science , Beijing Institute of Technology , Beijing 100081 , People's Republic of China
| | - Shuting Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Drug Discovery, Center of Advanced Pharmaceutics and Biomaterials , China Pharmaceutical University , 24 Tong Jia Xiang , 210009 Nanjing , People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Drug Discovery, Center of Advanced Pharmaceutics and Biomaterials , China Pharmaceutical University , 24 Tong Jia Xiang , 210009 Nanjing , People's Republic of China
| | - Domenico Marson
- Molecular Biology and Nanotechnology Laboratory (MolBNL@UniTS), DEA , University of Trieste , 34127 Trieste , Italy
| | - Yifan Jiang
- Aix-Marseille Université , CNRS, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille, UMR 7325, "Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer", 13288 Marseille , France
| | - Suzanne Giorgio
- Aix-Marseille Université , CNRS, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille, UMR 7325, "Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer", 13288 Marseille , France
| | - Sabrina Pricl
- Molecular Biology and Nanotechnology Laboratory (MolBNL@UniTS), DEA , University of Trieste , 34127 Trieste , Italy
| | - Xiaoxuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Drug Discovery, Center of Advanced Pharmaceutics and Biomaterials , China Pharmaceutical University , 24 Tong Jia Xiang , 210009 Nanjing , People's Republic of China.,Aix-Marseille Université , CNRS, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille, UMR 7325, "Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer", 13288 Marseille , France
| | - Palma Rocchi
- Inserm, Aix-Marseille Université , Institut Paoli-Calmettes, CNRS, CRCM, 13009 Marseille , France
| | - Ling Peng
- Aix-Marseille Université , CNRS, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille, UMR 7325, "Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer", 13288 Marseille , France
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Liu Z, Yang J, Ge C, Zhao F, Li H, Yao M, Li J, Tian H. Inhibitor of binding/differentiation 2 (Id2) is regulated by CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-α (C/EBPα) and promotes the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma. Am J Cancer Res 2018; 8:2254-2266. [PMID: 30555742 PMCID: PMC6291656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibitor of DNA binding/differentiation (Id2) is an important regulator involved in the initiation and progression of cancer. However, the function and mechanism of the regulation of Id2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was unclear. In the present study, we found that the overexpression of Id2 increased HCC cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of Id2 inhibited HCC cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, knockdown of Id2 enhanced sorafenib-induced apoptosis in HCC. Conversely, overexpression of Id2 weakened sorafenib-induced apoptosis in HCC. In addition, the transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα) bound to the Id2 promoter and decreased its expression in HCC cells. Therefore, all results suggest that Id2 promotes the proliferation of HCC cells by inhibiting cell apoptosis. Id2 may serve as a potential target in HCC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Liu
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghai 200032, PR China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of MedicineShanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Jing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of MedicineShanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Chao Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of MedicineShanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Fangyu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of MedicineShanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Hong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of MedicineShanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Ming Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of MedicineShanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Jinjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of MedicineShanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Hua Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of MedicineShanghai 200032, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Laham-Karam N, Laitinen P, Turunen TA, Ylä-Herttuala S. Activating the Chromatin by Noncoding RNAs. Antioxid Redox Signal 2018; 29:813-831. [PMID: 28699365 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2017.7248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE The extent and breadth of transcription have recently been uncovered and this has revealed an extensive array of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). The biological role and significance of these ncRNAs have been realized and to date it appears that ncRNAs may have many important regulatory functions. ncRNAs are multifaceted and they induce a complexity of different types of transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation, including gene activation. Recent Advances: Association of ncRNAs with gene activation is an important finding. Not only enhancer RNA (eRNA) but other types of ncRNAs, including small RNA (sRNA), long-noncoding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and PIWI-associated RNA (piRNA), have also been implicated in gene activation. Interestingly, they often coincide with histone modifications that favor an open chromatin. In addition, these ncRNAs can recruit key factors important for transcription, including RNA polymerase II. They may directly bind the genomic DNA or act as scaffolds; alternatively, they may loop the chromatin to enhance transcription. CRITICAL ISSUES Although the role of small activating (sa)RNAs has been considerably studied, the roles of miRNAs and piRNAs in gene activation still need to be substantiated and issues of specificity require further studies. FUTURE DIRECTIONS The ncRNA field is coming out of its infancy and we are gaining a global picture of the importance of ncRNAs. However, detailed mechanisms of action of the different ncRNAs are still to be determined. This may reveal novel ways of transcriptional regulation, which will facilitate our ability to utilize these regulatory pathways for research and therapeutic purposes. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 29, 813-831.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nihay Laham-Karam
- 1 A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio, Finland
| | - Pia Laitinen
- 1 A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tiia A Turunen
- 1 A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio, Finland
| | - Seppo Ylä-Herttuala
- 1 A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio, Finland .,2 Heart Center, Kuopio University Hospital , Kuopio, Finland .,3 Gene Therapy Unit, Kuopio University Hospital , Kuopio, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Liao M, Chen P, Liao Y, Li J, Yao W, Sun T, Liao W, Su L. Preoperative high-sensitivity C-reactive protein to lymphocyte ratio index plays a vital role in the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma after surgical resection. Onco Targets Ther 2018; 11:5591-5600. [PMID: 30237725 PMCID: PMC6135434 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s167857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background At present, the predictive ability of the prognostic indicator of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still limited. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the preoperative high-sensitivity C-reactive protein to lymphocyte ratio (HCLR) and the clinicopathologic characteristics of HCC. Patients and methods A total of 229 HCC patients undergoing surgical resection were retrospectively analyzed. The majority of the patients (132/229) had tumors larger than 5 cm, and 45 out of 229 had more than one tumor focus. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to decide the cutoff value of HCLR. The overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates were evaluated by adopting the Kaplan–Meier method. Results The cutoff value of HCLR for the best discrimination of HCC prognosis was 1.3 with a sensitivity of 75.5% and a specificity of 71.8%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.791 (95% CI, 0.731–0.840). Preoperative HCLR at a high level (>1.3) was positively correlated with large tumor size, TNM stage, microvascular invasion, and recurrence. The mean OS and PFS in patients with HCLR >1.3 were significantly shorter than in those with HCLR ≤1.3. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed the HCLR was an independent predictor of OS and PFS. Conclusion HCLR was an important independent predictor of dismal prognosis in HCC patients and can be used as a sensitive indicator for the dynamic monitoring of postoperative patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minjun Liao
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, People's Republic of China, , .,Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, People's Republic of China,
| | - Pu Chen
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, People's Republic of China, ,
| | - Yan Liao
- Disease Prevention and Control Center of Guilin, Guilin, Guangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Li
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, People's Republic of China, ,
| | - Wenmin Yao
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, People's Republic of China, ,
| | - Tian Sun
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, People's Republic of China, ,
| | - Weijia Liao
- Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, People's Republic of China, ,
| | - Lili Su
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nanxishan Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin, Guangxi, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|