Photodynamic therapy with hypericin induces vascular damage and apoptosis in the RIF-1 mouse tumor model

Hypericin-Mediated Photodynamic Therapy for Head and Neck Cancers: A Systematic Review

Background: Conventional treatments for cancers of the head and neck region are often associated with high recurrence rates and impaired quality of life. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a promising alternative, leveraging photosensitizers such as hypericin to selectively target tumour cells with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of hypericin-mediated PDT (HY-PDT) in treating head and neck cancers. Methods: Adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a systematic search was conducted across PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library for studies published between January 2000 and December 2024. Inclusion criteria encompassed preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies and clinical trials focusing on HY-PDT for head and neck malignancies and its subtypes. Results: A total of 13 studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising both in vitro and in vivo investigations. HY-PDT consistently demonstrated significant cytotoxicity against squamous cell carcinoma cells through apoptotic and necrotic pathways, primarily mediated by ROS generation. Hypericin exhibited selective uptake in cancer cells over normal keratinocytes. Additionally, HY-PDT modulated the tumour microenvironment by altering cytokine profiles, such as by increasing IL-20 and sIL-6R levels, which may enhance antitumor immunity and reduce metastasis. Conclusions: HY-PDT emerges as a highly promising and minimally toxic treatment modality for head and neck cancers, demonstrating efficacy in inducing selective tumour cell death and modulating the immune microenvironment. Despite the encouraging preclinical evidence, significant methodological variability and limited clinical data necessitate further large-scale, standardized and randomized controlled trials.

Hypericin as a promising natural bioactive naphthodianthrone: A review of its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and safety

Hypericin can be derived from St. John's wort, which is widely spread around the world. As a natural product, it has been put into clinical practice such as wound healing and depression for a long time. In this article, we review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and safety of hypericin, aiming to introduce the research advances and provide a full evaluation of it. Turns out hypericin, as a natural photosensitizer, exhibits an excellent capacity for anticancer, neuroprotection, and elimination of microorganisms, especially when activated by light, potent anticancer and antimicrobial effects are obtained after photodynamic therapy. The mechanisms of its therapeutic effects involve the induction of cell death, inhibition of cell cycle progression, inhibition of the reuptake of amines, and inhibition of virus replication. The pharmacokinetics properties indicate that hypericin has poor water solubility and bioavailability. The distribution and excretion are fast, and it is metabolized in bile. The toxicity of hypericin is rarely reported and the conventional use of it rarely causes adverse effects except for photosensitization. Therefore, we may conclude that hypericin can be used safely and effectively against a variety of diseases. We hope to provide researchers with detailed guidance and enlighten the development of it.

Current Challenges and Opportunities of Photodynamic Therapy against Cancer

BACKGROUND

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an established, minimally invasive treatment for specific types of cancer. During PDT, reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated that ultimately induce cell death and disruption of the tumor area. Moreover, PDT can result in damage to the tumor vasculature and induce the release and/or exposure of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) that may initiate an antitumor immune response. However, there are currently several challenges of PDT that limit its widespread application for certain indications in the clinic.

METHODS

A literature study was conducted to comprehensively discuss these challenges and to identify opportunities for improvement.

RESULTS

The most notable challenges of PDT and opportunities to improve them have been identified and discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

The recent efforts to improve the current challenges of PDT are promising, most notably those that focus on enhancing immune responses initiated by the treatment. The application of these improvements has the potential to enhance the antitumor efficacy of PDT, thereby broadening its potential application in the clinic.

Multifunctional Nanoplatforms as a Novel Effective Approach in Photodynamic Therapy and Chemotherapy, to Overcome Multidrug Resistance in Cancer

It is more than sixty years since the era of modern photodynamic therapy (PDT) for cancer began. Enhanced selectivity for malignant cells with a reduced selectivity for non-malignant cells and good biocompatibility along with the limited occurrence of side effects are considered to be the most significant advantages of PDT in comparison with conventional therapeutic approaches, e.g., chemotherapy. The phenomenon of multidrug resistance, which is associated with drug efflux transporters, was originally identified in relation to the application of chemotherapy. Unfortunately, over the last thirty years, numerous papers have shown that many photosensitizers are the substrates of efflux transporters, significantly restricting the effectiveness of PDT. The concept of a dynamic nanoplatform offers a possible solution to minimize the multidrug resistance effect in cells affected by PDT. Indeed, recent findings have shown that the utilization of nanoparticles could significantly enhance the therapeutic efficacy of PDT. Additionally, multifunctional nanoplatforms could induce the synergistic effect of combined treatment regimens, such as PDT with chemotherapy. Moreover, the surface modifications that are associated with nanoparticle functionalization significantly improve the target potential of PDT or chemo-PDT in multidrug resistant and cancer stem cells.

Photodynamic Therapy-Current Limitations and Novel Approaches

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) mostly relies on the generation of singlet oxygen, via the excitation of a photosensitizer, so that target tumor cells can be destroyed. PDT can be applied in the settings of several malignant diseases. In fact, the earliest preclinical applications date back to 1900’s. Dougherty reported the treatment of skin tumors by PDT in 1978. Several further studies around 1980 demonstrated the effectiveness of PDT. Thus, the technique has attracted the attention of numerous researchers since then. Hematoporphyrin derivative received the FDA approval as a clinical application of PDT in 1995. We have indeed witnessed a considerable progress in the field over the last century. Given the fact that PDT has a favorable adverse event profile and can enhance anti-tumor immune responses as well as demonstrating minimally invasive characteristics, it is disappointing that PDT is not broadly utilized in the clinical setting for the treatment of malignant and/or non-malignant diseases. Several issues still hinder the development of PDT, such as those related with light, tissue oxygenation and inherent properties of the photosensitizers. Various photosensitizers have been designed/synthesized in order to overcome the limitations. In this Review, we provide a general overview of the mechanisms of action in terms of PDT in cancer, including the effects on immune system and vasculature as well as mechanisms related with tumor cell destruction. We will also briefly mention the application of PDT for non-malignant diseases. The current limitations of PDT utilization in cancer will be reviewed, since identifying problems associated with design/synthesis of photosensitizers as well as application of light and tissue oxygenation might pave the way for more effective PDT approaches. Furthermore, novel promising approaches to improve outcome in PDT such as selectivity, bioengineering, subcellular/organelle targeting, etc. will also be discussed in detail, since the potential of pioneering and exceptional approaches that aim to overcome the limitations and reveal the full potential of PDT in terms of clinical translation are undoubtedly exciting. A better understanding of novel concepts in the field (e.g. enhanced, two-stage, fractional PDT) will most likely prove to be very useful for pursuing and improving effective PDT strategies.

Hypericin-mediated photodynamic therapy for the treatment of cancer: a review

OBJECTIVES

Hypericin is a polycyclic aromatic naphthodianthrone that occurs naturally. It is also an active ingredient in some species of the genus Hypericum. Emerging evidence suggests that hypericin has attracted great attention as a potential anticancer drug and exhibits remarkable antiproliferative effect upon irradiation on various tumour cells. This paper aims to summarise the anticancer effect and molecular mechanisms modulated by hypericin-medicated photodynamic therapy and its potential role in the cancer treatment.

KEY FINDINGS

Hypericin-medicated photodynamic therapy could inhibit the proliferation of various tumour cells including bladder, colon, breast, cervical, glioma, leukaemia, hepatic, melanoma, lymphoma and lung cancers. The effect is primarily mediated by p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), JNK, PI3K, CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP)/TRIB3/Akt/mTOR, TRAIL/TRAIL-receptor, c-Met and Ephrin-Eph, the mitochondria and extrinsic signalling pathways. Furthermore, hypericin-medicated photodynamic therapy in conjunction with chemotherapeutic agents or targeted therapies is more effective in inhibiting the growth of tumour cells.

SUMMARY

During the past few decades, the anticancer properties of photoactivated hypericin have been extensively investigated. Hypericin-medicated photodynamic therapy can modulate a variety of proteins and genes and exhibit a great potential to be used as a therapeutic agent for various types of cancer.

Role of Bcl-2 Family Proteins in Photodynamic Therapy Mediated Cell Survival and Regulation

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment modality that involves three components: combination of a photosensitizer, light and molecular oxygen that leads to localized formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The ROS generated from this promising therapeutic modality can be lethal to the cell and leads to consequential destruction of tumor cells. However, sometimes the ROS trigger a stress response survival mechanism that helps the cells to cope with PDT-induced damage, resulting in resistance to the treatment. One preferred mechanism of cell death induced by PDT is apoptosis, and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family proteins have been described as a major determinant of life or death decision of the death pathways. Apoptosis is a cellular self-destruction mechanism to remove old cells through the biological event of tissue homeostasis. The Bcl-2 family proteins act as a critical mediator of a life–death decision of cells in maintaining tissue homeostasis. There are several reports that show cancer cells developing resistance due to the increased interaction of the pro-survival Bcl-2 family proteins. However, the key mechanisms leading to apoptosis evasion and drug resistance have not been adequately understood. Therefore, it is critical to understand the mechanisms of PDT resistance, as well as the Bcl-2 family proteins, to give more insight into the treatment outcomes. In this review, we describe the role of Bcl-2 gene family proteins’ interaction in response to disease progression and PDT-induced resistance mechanisms.

Potentiality, Limitations, and Consequences of Different Experimental Models to Improve Photodynamic Therapy for Cancer Treatment in Relation to Antiangiogenic Mechanism

The relevance of experimentally gained information represents a long-term debating issue in the field of molecular biology research. The loss of original conditions in the in vitro environment affects various biological mechanisms and cellular interactions. Consequently, some biochemical mechanisms are lost or critically altered. Analyses in these modified conditions could, therefore, distort the relevancy of experimentally gained information. In some cases, the similarities with original conditions are so small that utilization of simpler in vitro models seems impossible, or could occur in a very limited way. To conclude, the study of more complex phenomena places higher demands on the complexity of the experimental model. The latest information highlights the fact that the tumor angiogenesis mechanism has very complex features. This complexity can be associated with a wide range of angiogenic factors expressed by a variety of malignant and non-malignant cells. Our article summarizes the results from various experimental models that were utilized to analyze a photodynamic therapy effect on tumor angiogenic mechanisms. Additionally, based on the latest information, we present the most important attributes and limitations of utilized experimental models. We also evaluate the essential problems associated with angiogenic mechanism induction after photodynamic therapy application.

The Influence of Hypericin-Mediated Photodynamic Therapy on Interleukin-8 and -10 Secretion in Colon Cancer Cells

The aim of this study was to measure the secretion of interleukin (IL)-8 and -10 during an elicited immune response following sublethal doses of hypericin-mediated photodynamic therapy (HY-PDT) in experimental models of residual colon cancer cells in vitro. Investigations were performed on the cancer cell lines SW480 and SW620. Each cell line was exposed to 3 different concentrations of the photosensitizer HY and various doses of irradiation. The cell metabolic activity using an MTT assay was performed and then the measurement of IL-8 and IL-10 secretion was achieved using the Bio-Plex ProTMAssay. There was a statistically significant amplification of IL-8 secretion during HY-PDT in the SW620 cell line (at 1 J/cm2: P = .01, 5 J/cm2: P = .002, and 10 J/cm2: P = .025) and a statistically significant decrease in IL-8 during HY-PDT in the SW480 cell line (at 1 J/cm2: P = .05, 5 J/cm2: P = .035, and 10 J/cm2: P = .035). No statistically significant differences in IL-10 concentration were found following HY-PDT in the SW480 (at 1 J/cm2: P > .4, 5 J/cm2: P = .1, and 10 J/cm2: P = .075) or in the SW620 cell line (at 1 J/cm2: P > .4, 5 J/cm2: P > .4, and 10 J/cm2: P > .4). HY-PDT can both eliminate and control a primary tumor via cytotoxic effects, and at sublethal doses, it can affect IL release by colon cancer cells. In this experiment, this influence depended on the level of tumor cell metastatic activity.

Novel Insights into the Effect of Hyperforin and Photodynamic Therapy with Hypericin on Chosen Angiogenic Factors in Colorectal Micro-Tumors Created on Chorioallantoic Membrane

Photodynamic therapy with hypericin (HY-PDT) and hyperforin (HP) could be treatment modalities for colorectal cancer (CRC), but evidence of their effect on angiogenic factors in CRC is missing. Convenient experimental model utilization is essential for angiogenesis research. Therefore, not only 2D cell models, but also 3D cell models and micro-tumors were used and compared. The micro-tumor extent and interconnection with the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) was determined by histological analyses. The presence of proliferating cells and HY penetration into the tumor mass were detected by fluorescence microscopy. The metabolic activity status was assessed by an colorimetric assay for assessing cell metabolic activity (MTT assay) and HY accumulation was determined by flow cytometry. Pro-angiogenic factor expression was determined by Western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). We confirmed the cytotoxic effect of HY-PDT and HP and showed that their effect is influenced by structural characteristics of the experimental model. We have pioneered a method for analyzing the effect of HP and cellular targeted HY-PDT on pro-angiogenic factor expression in CRC micro-tumors. Despite the inhibitory effect of HY-PDT and HP on CRC, the increased expression of some pro-angiogenic factors was observed. We also showed that CRC experimental micro-tumors created on quail CAM could be utilized for analyses of gene and protein expression.

Epigenetically Enhanced PDT Induces Significantly Higher Levels of Multiple Extrinsic Pathway Apoptotic Factors than Standard PDT, Resulting in Greater Extrinsic and Overall Apoptosis of Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma

Aminolevulinate-based photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) selectively eliminates diseased tissues primarily through the induction of intrinsic apoptotic pathway. ALA-PDT is a first-line therapy for actinic keratosis, however, it is less effective for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). We have previously demonstrated that the resistance of CTCL to apoptosis correlates with decreased expression of death receptors such as FAS, and that methotrexate functions as an epigenetic regulator that reestablishes the susceptibility of CTCL to extrinsic pathway apoptosis. We showed previously that MTX augments the effectiveness of PDT by sensitizing cells to apoptosis by induction of apoptotic factors, a process we call "epigenetically enhanced" PDT (ePDT). Here, in CTCL cell lines, leukemic CTCL cells, and normal blood T cells, we analyzed multiple components of the FAS, TRAIL, and TNF families using multispectral imaging of immunostained cytopreparations, a quantitative technique with five-fold greater sensitivity than standard immunocytology. ePDT induced significantly greater FAS, FASL, TRAIL-R1 & -R2, and TNFα levels than standard PDT. This correlated with significantly greater induction of extrinsic pathway apoptosis and/or overall apoptosis in all CTCL samples. There was no appreciable effect on normal T cells. These data set the stage for clinical trials of ePDT as a novel localized treatment of CTCL.

Preparation of a chlorophyll derivative and investigation of its photodynamic activities against cholangiocarcinoma

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is emerging as a promising method for the treatment of various cancer diseases. However, the clinical application of PDT is limited due to the lack of effective photosensitizers. In this study, a novel chlorophyll derivative, N,N-bis(2-carboxyethyl)pyropheophorbide a (BPPA), had been synthesized and characterized. BPPA had a characteristic long wavelength absorption peak at 669nm and a singlet oxygen quantum yield of 0.54. To investigate the photodynamic ability of BPPA against cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), cellular uptake, subcellular location and bio-distribution, in vitro and in vivo PDT efficacy of BPPA were studied. The results showed that BPPA could rapidly accumulate in QBC-939 cells and localize in the cytoplasm. BPPA- PDT was effective in reducing the cell viability in a drug dose- and light dose-dependent manner in vitro. In CCA xenograft nude mouse model, the concentration of BPPA in the plasma lowered rapidly, and the fluorescence signal peaked at 0.5h and 2h after injection in the skin and tumor, respectively. Significant quantities could be observed in the tumor. BPPA followed by irradiation could significantly inhibit growth of tumors, and histological examination revealed necrotic damage in PDT-treated tumors. These results suggested that BPPA could be a promising drug candidate for photodynamic therapy in cholangiocarcinoma.

An overview of anticancer activity of Garcinia and Hypericum

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide (approximately 8.2 million cases/year) and, over the next two decades, a 70% increase in new cancer cases is expected. Through analysis of the available drugs between the years of 1930 and 2014, it was found that 48% were either natural products or their derivatives. This proportion increased to 66% when semi-synthetic products were included. The family Clusiaceae Juss. (Malpighiales) includes approximately 1000 species distributed throughout all tropical and temperate regions. The phytochemical profile of this family includes many chemicals with interesting pharmacological activities, including anticancer activities. This study includes an overview of the in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity of secondary metabolites from Garcinia and Hypericum and the mechanisms involved in this activity. Hypericum no longer belong to Clusiaceae family, but was considered in the past by taxonomists, due to similarities with this family. Research in the area has shown that several compounds belonging to different chemical classes exhibit activity in several tumor cell lines in different experimental models. This review shows the significant antineoplasic activity of these compounds, in particular of these two genera and validates the importance of natural products in the search for anticancer drugs.

Hypericin in the Light and in the Dark: Two Sides of the Same Coin

Hypericin (4,5,7,4',5',7'-hexahydroxy-2,2'-dimethylnaphtodianthrone) is a naturally occurring chromophore found in some species of the genus Hypericum, especially Hypericum perforatum L. (St. John's wort), and in some basidiomycetes (Dermocybe spp.) or endophytic fungi (Thielavia subthermophila). In recent decades, hypericin has been intensively studied for its broad pharmacological spectrum. Among its antidepressant and light-dependent antiviral actions, hypericin is a powerful natural photosensitizer that is applicable in the photodynamic therapy (PDT) of various oncological diseases. As the accumulation of hypericin is significantly higher in neoplastic tissue than in normal tissue, it can be used in photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) as an effective fluorescence marker for tumor detection and visualization. In addition, light-activated hypericin acts as a strong pro-oxidant agent with antineoplastic and antiangiogenic properties, since it effectively induces the apoptosis, necrosis or autophagy of cancer cells. Moreover, a strong affinity of hypericin for necrotic tissue was discovered. Thus, hypericin and its radiolabeled derivatives have been recently investigated as potential biomarkers for the non-invasive targeting of tissue necrosis in numerous disorders, including solid tumors. On the other hand, several light-independent actions of hypericin have also been described, even though its effects in the dark have not been studied as intensively as those of photoactivated hypericin. Various experimental studies have revealed no cytotoxicity of hypericin in the dark; however, it can serve as a potential antimetastatic and antiangiogenic agent. On the contrary, hypericin can induce the expression of some ABC transporters, which are often associated with the multidrug resistance (MDR) of cancer cells. Moreover, the hypericin-mediated attenuation of the cytotoxicity of some chemotherapeutics was revealed. Therefore, hypericin might represent another St. John's wort metabolite that is potentially responsible for negative herb-drug interactions. The main aim of this review is to summarize the benefits of photoactivated and non-activated hypericin, mainly in preclinical and clinical applications, and to uncover the "dark side" of this secondary metabolite, focusing on MDR mechanisms.

Photodynamic-therapy Activates Immune Response by disrupting Immunity Homeostasis of Tumor Cells, which Generates Vaccine for Cancer Therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), a regulatory approved cancer treatment, is reported to be capable of causing immunogenic apoptosis. The current data reveal PDT can cause the dysregulation of “eat me” and “don't eat me” signal by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) -mediated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. This dysregulation probably contribute to the increased uptake of PDT-killed Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells by homologous dendritic cells (DCs), accompanied by phenotypic maturation (CD80^high, CD86^high, and CD40^high) and functional stimulation (NO^high, IL-10^absent) of dendritic cells as well as subsequent T-cell responses. Morevover, C57BL/6 mice vaccinated with dendritic cells (DCs) pulsed with PDT-treated LLCs (PDT-DCs) or PDT-treated LLCs alone (PDT-LLCs) exhibited potent immunity against LLC tumors. In the current study, the PDT-induced immune response was characterized as a process related with the dysregulation of “eat me” signal and “don't eat me” signal, revealing the possibility for developing PDT into an antitumor vaccination strategy for personalized cancer immunotherapy.

Epigenetically Enhanced Photodynamic Therapy (ePDT) is Superior to Conventional Photodynamic Therapy for Inducing Apoptosis in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma

Conventional photodynamic therapy with aminolevulinate (ALA-PDT) selectively induces apoptosis in diseased cells and is highly effective for treating actinic keratoses. However, similar results are achieved only in a subset of patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). Our previous work shows that the apoptotic resistance of CTCL correlates with low expression of death receptors like Fas cell surface death receptor (FAS), and that methotrexate upregulates FAS by inhibiting the methylation of its promoter, acting as an epigenetic derepressor that restores the susceptibility of FAS-low CTCL to caspase-8-mediated apoptosis. Here, we demonstrate that methotrexate increases the response of CTCL to ALA-PDT, a concept we refer to as epigenetically enhanced PDT (ePDT). Multiple CTCL cell lines were subjected to conventional PDT versus ePDT. Apoptotic biomarkers were analyzed in situ with multispectral imaging analysis of immunostained cells, a method that is quantitative and 5× more sensitive than standard immunohistology for antigen detection. Compared to conventional PDT or methotrexate alone, ePDT led to significantly greater cell death in all CTCL cell lines tested by inducing greater activation of caspase-8-mediated extrinsic apoptosis. Upregulation of FAS and/or tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand pathway components was observed in different CTCL cell lines. These findings provide a rationale for clinical trials of ePDT for CTCL.

Hypericin-mediated photodynamic therapy induces apoptosis in K562 human leukemia cells through JNK pathway modulation

Hypericin (Hyp) is traditionally used as an antidepressant and antiviral agent. It selectively accumulates in spheroids and is also used as a photosensitizer in the photodynamic therapy of cancer. The present study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic effect of Hyp-mediated photodynamic therapy (Hyp-PDT) on cell growth and apoptosis of K562 leukemia cells, and to examine the underlying mechanisms. Hyp-PDT was performed with different light intensities (0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 mW/cm²), different concentrations of Hyp (0, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.8 µg/ml) and different durations of irradiation (0, 2, 4 and 8 min) in order to select the optimal conditions for subsequent experiments. A concentration of 0.4 µg/ml Hyp with a 5 h drug-light interval and 4 min irradiation at 0.3 mW/cm² light intensity was selected as the optimal conditions. The effects of Hyp-PDT on apoptosis were determined by detecting morphological changes under microscopy and by performing western blot analysis. The results revealed that Hyp-PDT suppressed cell viability in a light intensity-, dose- and irradiation duration-dependent manner. The expression levels of cleaved caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3 and phosphorylated-C-Jun N terminal kinase (JNK) l were significantly upregulated following Hyp-PDT. These results indicated that Hyp-PDT decreased cell viability and induced mitochondria-caspase-dependent apoptosis in the K562 cells through regulation of the JNK pathway. These findings suggest that Hyp-PDT may be developed as an effective treatment for leukemia.

Hypericin-based Photodynamic Therapy Induces a Tumor-Specific Immune Response and an Effective DC-based cancer Immunotherapy

In our study, we find that photodynamic therapy (PDT), which generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) -mediated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress to inflict trauma in the targeted lesion, can break the balance between membrane damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and integrin-associated protein (CD47). The imbalance undermines the ability of lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells to escape immune attack by increasing the uptake of hypericin-mediated PDT(hyp-PDT) killed lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells by homologous dendritic cells (DCs), accompanied by phenotypic maturation (CD80high, CD86high, and CD40high) and functional stimulation (NOhigh, IL-10absent) of dendritic cells as well as subsequent T-cell response. Besides, C57BL/6 mice vaccinated with dendritic cells (DCs) pulsed with PDT-treated LLCs (PDT-DCs) or PDT-treated LLCs alone (PDT-LLCs) show potent immunity against LLC tumor. These data identify hypericin-induced PDT as a strong inducer of immunogenic apoptosis, providing an antitumor vaccination strategy for personalized cancer Immunotherapy.

p38(MAPK)-regulated induction of p62 and NBR1 after photodynamic therapy promotes autophagic clearance of ubiquitin aggregates and reduces reactive oxygen species levels by supporting Nrf2-antioxidant signaling

Emerging evidence indicates that oxidative stress instigates the formation of ubiquitin (Ub) aggregates, substrates of autophagy, through a process requiring the ubiquitin binding adaptors p62/SQSTM1 and NBR1. Here, we have investigated the role of p62 and NBR1 in cell survival after hypericin-mediated photodynamic therapy (Hyp-PDT), a procedure known to incite robust reactive oxygen species (ROS)-based endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy pathways. We found that Hyp-PDT stimulated the formation of p62- and NBR1-associated Ub aggregates in normal and cancer cells, which were ultimately removed by autophagy, through a mechanism partially regulated by p38(MAPK). In line with this, genetic or pharmacological p38(MAPK) inhibition reduced p62 and NBR1 levels and aggregate formation and impaired Nrf2 activation, thus increasing photo-oxidative stress and cell death. p62-deficient cells, or cells lacking p62 and with reduced levels of NBR1 (through siRNA knockdown), also displayed reduced aggregate formation but exhibited attenuated ROS levels, reduced caspase activation, and improved survival after Hyp-PDT. The increased resistance to photo-oxidative stress exhibited by cells lacking p62 and/or NBR1 was overruled by the inhibition of p38(MAPK), which restored cytotoxic ROS levels, thus indicating the relevance of this signal in the control of cell viability. Taken together these findings provide evidence that in photodynamically treated cells a p38(MAPK)-regulated pathway coordinates the p62/NBR1-mediated clearance of cytosolic aggregates and mitigates PDT-induced proteotoxicity. They also reveal that a functional p38(MAPK)-Nrf2 signal is required to keep ROS levels in check and protect against PDT-induced proteotoxicity, independent of aggregate formation.

Pattern of sensitivity of progressive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cells to UVB and oxidative stress-induced cell death

Previous investigations have demonstrated that isogenic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cell lines (cSCC), isolated from highly dysplastic skin (PM1), primary invasive SCC (MET1) and its lymph node metastasis (MET4), show an increasing resistance to cisplatin-induced apoptosis in the increasingly malignant MET1 and MET4 cells. To investigate whether cell death sensitivity in progressive stages of skin carcinogenesis is dependent on the kind of stress we examined the sensitivity of PM1, MET1 and MET4 cells to apoptosis in response to a single UVB-dose (mixture of genotoxic and oxidative stress), or to hydrogen peroxide and hypericin photodynamic treatment (both pure oxidative stresses). MET1 cells, followed by the MET4 cells, were more sensitive to UVB, resulting in more cell death and more apoptosis in comparison with the PM1 cells. A similar pattern of sensitivity was observed when we exposed the SCC cells to hydrogen peroxide or hypericin photodynamic treatment, which both generate mainly oxidative stress. The MET1 cells were the most sensitive to all stresses examined. The pattern of cell death sensitivity in a model of progressive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is dependent on the kind of stress. While more advanced skin cancer cells like MET1 and MET4 cells lose their sensitivity to the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin, they remain sensitive to hydrogen peroxide or physical treatments, which induce major oxidative stress. This differential sensitivity could have implications for the treatment of advanced cSCC.

New insights into the mechanisms for photodynamic therapy-induced cancer cell death

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising therapeutic modality for cancer treatment; however, a more detailed understanding is needed to improve the clinical use of this therapy. PDT induces cancer cell death by apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy, and these mechanisms can be concurrently occurred. PDT destroys cancer cells by inducing apoptosis through diverse signaling pathways coupled with Bcl-2 family members, caspases, and apopotosis-inducing factor. When the apoptotic pathway is unavailable, PDT can cause cancer cell death through induction of a necrotic or autophagic mechanism. Autophagy is occurred in a Bax-independent manner and can be stimulated in parallel with apoptosis. PDT directly destroys cancer cells by inducing either apoptotic or necrotic death. PDT also can induce autophagy as a death or a survival mechanism. These mechanisms are dependent on a variety of parameters including the nature of the photosensitizer, PDT dose, and cell genotype. Understanding the complex cross talk between these pathways may improve the effectiveness of PDT. Here, we discuss the interplay between these mechanisms based on recent evidence and suggest prospects with regard to advances in PDT.

Spatiotemporal autophagic degradation of oxidatively damaged organelles after photodynamic stress is amplified by mitochondrial reactive oxygen species

Although reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been reported to evoke different autophagic pathways, how ROS or their secondary products modulate the selective clearance of oxidatively damaged organelles is less explored. To investigate the signaling role of ROS and the impact of their compartmentalization in autophagy pathways, we used murine fibrosarcoma L929 cells overexpressing different antioxidant enzymes targeted to the cytosol or mitochondria and subjected them to photodynamic (PD) stress with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated photosensitizer hypericin. We show that following apical ROS-mediated damage to the ER, predominantly cells overexpressing mitochondria-associated glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2) displayed attenuated kinetics of autophagosome formation and overall cell death, as detected by computerized time-lapse microscopy. Consistent with a primary ER photodamage, kinetics and colocalization studies revealed that photogenerated ROS induced an initial reticulophagy, followed by morphological changes in the mitochondrial network that preceded clearance of mitochondria by mitophagy. Overexpression of cytosolic and mitochondria-associated GPX4 retained the tubular mitochondrial network in response to PD stress and concomitantly blocked the progression toward mitophagy. Preventing the formation of phospholipid hydroperoxides and H(2)O(2) in the cytosol as well as in the mitochondria significantly reduced cardiolipin peroxidation and apoptosis. All together, these results show that in response to apical ER photodamage ROS propagate to mitochondria, which in turn amplify ROS production, thereby contributing to two antagonizing processes, mitophagy and apoptosis.

Inhibitors of translation targeting eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A

The RNA helicases eIF4AI and eIF4AII play key roles in recruiting ribosomes to mRNA templates during eukaryotic translation initiation. Small molecule inhibitors of eIF4AI and eIF4AII have been useful for chemically dissecting their role in translation in vitro and in vivo. Here, we describe a screen performed on a small focused library of kinase inhibitors to identify a novel helicase inhibitor. We describe assays that have been critical for characterizing novel RNA helicase inhibitors.

Low dose hypericin-PDT induces complete tumor regression in BALB/c mice bearing CT26 colon carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Successful tumor eradication with photodynamic therapy (PDT) in vivo depends on the optimal combination of treatment parameters. (Low-dose) PDT may additionally induce antitumoral immune responses. Since the naturally occurring hypericin (Hyp) is a promising photosensitizer for PDT, the aim of the study was to investigate phototoxic and immunologic effects of a low-dose Hyp-PDT on murine tumors in contrast to commonly used Hyp-PDT conditions.

METHODS

BALB/c mice bearing CT26 colon carcinoma received hypericin intravenously and were irradiated with red light 0.5-4h later. Tumor development was recorded. Mice were then re-challenged 60 days after the first tumor cell inoculation to investigate an antitumoral immune response.

RESULTS

Different results of tumor/host responses were obtained, ranging from mice exitus over delayed tumor growth to complete tumor regression according to different treatment protocols. PDT with common doses and a 4h drug-light-interval resulted in a four times delayed tumor growth compared to the control groups. PDT with relatively low doses and a drug-light-interval of 0.5h led to 100% tumor eradication. Re-challenge of these mice with CT26 mouse colon carcinoma cells prevented new tumor growth.

CONCLUSIONS

Not only drug concentrations and light doses seem to determine the efficiency of tumor eradication, but also the localization of hypericin at the time of irradiation. Targets in our low-dose PDT protocol are exclusively the vessels. The advantage of this low-dose PDT beside less drug and light exposure of the animals is reduced skin damage, faster healing of the lesions and induction of an antitumoral immune response.

Increasing the efficiency of photodynamic therapy by improved light delivery and oxygen supply using an anticoagulant in a solid tumor model

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The main factors in photodynamic therapy (PDT) are: photosensitizer retention, photon absorption, and oxygen supply. Each factor has its unique set of problems that poses limitation to the treatment. Both light delivery and oxygen supply are significant bottlenecks in PDT. Vascular closure during PDT reduces oxygen supply to the targeted tissue. On the other hand, with the changes in blood perfusion, the tissue optical properties change, and result in variation in irradiation light transmission. For these reasons, it becomes very important to avoid blood coagulation and vascular closure during PDT.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

The efficiency of PDT combined with the anticoagulant heparin was studied in a BALB/c mouse model with subcutaneous EMT6 mammary carcinomas. Mice were randomized into three groups: control, PDT-only, and PDT with heparin. The photosensitizer Photofrin was used in our experiments. Light transmission, blood perfusion, and local production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were monitored during the treatment. The corresponding histological examinations were performed to determine the thrombosis immediately after irradiation and to evaluate tumor necrosis 48 hours after the treatment.

RESULTS

The results clearly demonstrated that PDT combined with pre-administered heparin can significantly reduce thrombosis during light irradiation. The blood perfusion, oxygen supply, and light delivery are all improved. Improved tumor responses in the combined therapy, as shown with the histological examination and tumor growth assay, are clearly demonstrated and related to an increased local ROS production.

CONCLUSION

Transitory anticoagulation treatment significantly enhances the antitumor effect of PDT. It is mainly due to the improvement of the light delivery and oxygen supply in tumor, and ultimately the amount of ROS produced during PDT.

Proteasome inhibition potentiates antitumor effects of photodynamic therapy in mice through induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress and unfolded protein response

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an approved therapeutic procedure that exerts cytotoxic activity toward tumor cells by inducing production of reactive oxygen species such as singlet oxygen. PDT leads to oxidative damage of cellular macromolecules, including proteins that undergo multiple modifications such as fragmentation, cross-linking, and carbonylation that result in protein unfolding and aggregation. Because the major mechanism for elimination of carbonylated proteins is their degradation by proteasomes, we hypothesized that a combination of PDT with proteasome inhibitors might lead to accumulation of carbonylated proteins in endoplasmic reticulum (ER), aggravated ER stress, and potentiated cytotoxicity toward tumor cells. We observed that Photofrin-mediated PDT leads to robust carbonylation of cellular proteins and induction of unfolded protein response. Pretreatment of tumor cells with three different proteasome inhibitors, including bortezomib, MG132, and PSI, gave increased accumulation of carbonylated and ubiquitinated proteins in PDT-treated cells. Proteasome inhibitors effectively sensitized tumor cells of murine (EMT6 and C-26) as well as human (HeLa) origin to PDT-mediated cytotoxicity. Significant retardation of tumor growth with 60% to 100% complete responses was observed in vivo in two different murine tumor models (EMT6 and C-26) when PDT was combined with either bortezomib or PSI. Altogether, these observations indicate that combination of PDT with proteasome inhibitors leads to potentiated antitumor effects. The results of these studies are of immediate clinical application because bortezomib is a clinically approved drug that undergoes extensive clinical evaluations for the treatment of solid tumors.

Molecular profiling of angiogenesis in hypericin mediated photodynamic therapy

BACKGROUND

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) involves the administration of a tumor-localizing photosensitizing drug, which is activated by light of specific wavelength in the presence of molecular oxygen thus generating reactive oxygen species that is toxic to the tumor cells. PDT selectively destroys photosensitized tissue leading to various cellular and molecular responses. The present study was designed to examine the angiogenic responses at short (0.5 h) and long (6 h) drug light interval (DLI) hypericin-PDT (HY-PDT) treatment at 24 h and 30 days post treatment in a human bladder carcinoma xenograft model. As short DLI targets tumor vasculature and longer DLI induces greater cellular damage, we hypothesized a differential effect of these treatments on the expression of angiogenic factors.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) results showed minimal CD31 stained endothelium at 24 h post short DLI PDT indicating extensive vascular damage. Angiogenic proteins such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumor necrosis growth factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were expressed to a greater extent in cellular targeting long DLI PDT compared to vascular mediated short DLI PDT. Gene expression profiling for angiogenesis pathway demonstrated downregulation of adhesion molecules - cadherin 5, collagen alpha 1 and 3 at 24 h post treatment. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and Ephrin-A3 (EFNA3) were upregulated in all treatment groups suggesting a possible activation of c-Met and Ephrin-Eph signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, long DLI HY-PDT induces upregulation of angiogenic proteins. Differential expression of genes involved in the angiogenesis pathway was observed in the various groups treated with HY-PDT.

Induction of heme-oxygenase 1 requires the p38MAPK and PI3K pathways and suppresses apoptotic cell death following hypericin-mediated photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an established anticancer modality utilizing the photogeneration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to kill the cancer cells and hypericin is a promising photosensitizer for the treatment of bladder tumors. In this paper we characterize the signaling pathways and the mechanisms leading to the up-regulation of the antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase (HO-1) in PDT treated cancer cells. We show that PDT engages the p38(MAPK) and PI3K signaling cascades for HO-1 induction. p38(MAPK) inhibitors or small interfering RNA (siRNA) for p38(MAPK) suppress HO-1 induction after PDT and complete repression is attained when p38 and PI3K antagonists are combined. Blocking these signaling pathways increases additively the propensity of the cells to undergo PDT-induced apoptosis, mirroring the effect of HO-1 silencing. Conversely, increasing HO-1 protein level by hemin prior to irradiation is cytoprotective. HO-1 stimulation by PDT is dependent on transcription and de novo protein synthesis and it is preceded by the nuclear accumulation of the Nrf2 transcription factor, which is reduced by inhibitors of p38(MAPK) and PI3K. Altogether these results indicate that stimulation of HO-1 expression by hypericin-PDT is a cytoprotective mechanism governed by the p38(MAPK) and PI3K pathways, likely through the control of the nuclear availability of the Nrf2 pool.

Strategies for enhanced photodynamic therapy effects

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment modality for the selective destruction of cancerous and nonneoplastic pathologies that involves the simultaneous presence of light, oxygen and a light-activatable chemical called a photosensitizer (PS) to achieve a cytotoxic effect. The photophysics and mechanisms of cell killing by PDT have been extensively studied in recent years, and PDT has received regulatory approval for the treatment of a number of diseases worldwide. As the application of this treatment modality expands with regard to both anatomical sites and disease stages, it will be important to develop strategies for enhancing PDT outcomes. This article focuses on two broad approaches for PDT enhancement: (1) mechanism-based combination treatments in which PDT and a second modality can be designed to either increase the susceptibility of tumor cells to PDT or nullify the treatment outcome-mitigating molecular responses triggered by PDT of tumors, and (2) the more recent approaches of PS targeting, either by specific cellular function-sensitive linkages or via conjugation to macromolecules.

Molecular effectors of multiple cell death pathways initiated by photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a recently developed anticancer modality utilizing the generation of singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species, through visible light irradiation of a photosensitive dye accumulated in the cancerous tissue. Multiple signaling cascades are concomitantly activated in cancer cells exposed to the photodynamic stress and depending on the subcellular localization of the damaging ROS, these signals are transduced into adaptive or cell death responses. Recent evidence indicates that PDT can kill cancer cells directly by the efficient induction of apoptotic as well as non-apoptotic cell death pathways. The identification of the molecular effectors regulating the cross-talk between apoptosis and other major cell death subroutines (e.g. necrosis, autophagic cell death) is an area of intense research in cancer therapy. Signaling molecules modulating the induction of different cell death pathways can become useful targets to induce or increase photokilling in cancer cells harboring defects in apoptotic pathways, which is a crucial step in carcinogenesis and therapy resistance. This review highlights recent developments aimed at deciphering the molecular interplay between cell death pathways as well as their possible therapeutic exploitation in photosensitized cells.

Hypericin-induced photocytotoxicity is connected with G2/M arrest in HT-29 and S-phase arrest in U937 cells

Susceptibility of the HT-29 human colon adenocarcinoma cell line and human myeloid leukemia cell line U937 to hypericin-mediated photocytotoxicity was investigated and compared in this study. Cellular parameters as viability, cell number, metabolic activity and total protein amount were monitored in screening experiments with subsequent cell-cycle analysis and apoptosis detection to determine the cellular response of the different tumor types to various concentrations of photoactivated hypericin. The results show concentration dependence of the photosensitizer's cytotoxicity on the studied cell lines, with higher sensitivity of U937 cells. Whereas the two extreme hypericin concentrations (1 x 10(-9) M and 1 x 10(-6) M) resulted in similar changes in all tested cellular parameters on the two studied cell lines, 1 x 10(-8) M and 1 x 10(-7) M hypericin treatment resulted in different responses of the cell lines in all monitored parameters except for viability. Although leukemic cells proved sensitive to both 1 x 10(-8) M and 1 x 10(-7) M hypericin, significant changes on HT-29 cells were detected only after the 1 x 10(-7) M hypericin concentration. Cell-cycle arrest was related to simultaneously occurring apoptosis in colon cancer. Remarkable is the difference in cell-cycle profile where G2/M arrest in colon cancer cells versus accumulation of leukemic cells in the S phase appears. This suggests that hypericin treatment affecting the cell-cycle machinery of different cancer cells is not universal in effect.

Antitumor effects and blood flow dynamics after photodynamic therapy using benzoporphyrin derivative monoacid ring A in KLN205 and LM8 mouse tumor models

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using benzoporphyrin derivative monoacid ring A (BPD-MA) induces direct tumor cell damage and microvascular injury. We administered BPD-MA at 3h or 15min before laser irradiation to KLN205 and LM8 tumors in murine models. Tumor growth delay was induced more effectively by 15-min-interval PDT than by 3-h-interval PDT. Vascularity and blood perfusion was significantly decreased by 15-min-interval PDT. We observed death of all tumor cells, except peripheral cells, in the 3-h-interval PDT group, and death of cells around the damaged tumor vasculature in the 15-min-interval PDT group. Thus, 15-min-interval PDT enhanced the antitumor effect by damaging tumor vasculature.

Antitumor activity ofHypericum hookerianum against DLA induced tumor in mice and its possible mechanism of action

A large number of plants belonging to the genus Hypericum and their phytoconstituents are known to possess potent anticancer nature. Earlier studies from our laboratories indicated a strong cytotoxic nature of the methanol extract of Hypericum hookerianum stem (MEHH). In the present study, the in vivo antitumor activity of MEHH against the Dalton's lymphoma ascitic (DLA) model was determined at 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight given orally for 10 days. The results indicate that administration of the extract not only increased the survival of animals with ascites tumor, decreased the body weight induced by the tumor burden and reduced the packed cell volume and viable tissue cell count, but also altered many hematological parameters changed during tumor progression indicating the potent antitumor nature of the extract. Hematological and biochemical analysis were carried out to prove the anticancer and antioxidant nature of the extract.

Photodynamic therapy and anti-tumour immunity

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses non-toxic photosensitizers and harmless visible light in combination with oxygen to produce cytotoxic reactive oxygen species that kill malignant cells by apoptosis and/or necrosis, shut down the tumour microvasculature and stimulate the host immune system. In contrast to surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy that are mostly immunosuppressive, PDT causes acute inflammation, expression of heat-shock proteins, invasion and infiltration of the tumour by leukocytes, and might increase the presentation of tumour-derived antigens to T cells.

Role of endoplasmic reticulum depletion and multidomain proapoptotic BAX and BAK proteins in shaping cell death after hypericin-mediated photodynamic therapy

Both the commitment event and the modality of cell death in photodynamic therapy (PDT) remain poorly defined. We report that PDT with endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associating hypericin leads to an immediate loss of SERCA2 protein levels, causing disruption of Ca2+ homeostasis and cell death. Protection of SERCA2 protein rescues ER-Ca2+ levels and prevents cell death, suggesting that SERCA2 photodestruction with consequent incapability of the ER to maintain intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis is causal to cell killing. Apoptosis is rapidly initiated after ER-Ca2+ depletion and strictly requires the BAX/BAK gateway at the mitochondria. Bax-/-Bak-/- double-knockout (DKO) cells are protected from apoptosis but undergo autophagy-associated cell death as revealed by electron microscopy and biochemical analysis. Autophagy inhibitors, but not caspase antagonists, significantly reduce death of DKO cells, suggesting that sustained autophagy is lethal. Thus, following ER photodamage and consequent disruption of Ca2+ homeostasis, BAX and BAK proteins model PDT-mediated cell killing, which is executed through apoptosis in their presence or via an autophagic pathway in their absence.

Hypericin-photodynamic therapy (PDT) using an alternative treatment regime suitable for multi-fraction PDT

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) outcome depends on the conditions under which it is carried out. Maintaining the tumour tissue oxygen level is important for PDT efficacy and using a low fluence rate can improve outcome. In this work we studied the response of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma tumours in murine models to hypericin-PDT carried out under low fluence and fluence rate. A drug-light interval (DLI) of 1h or 6h was used for 1h-PDT and 6h-PDT, respectively. Evan's blue test was used to assess necrosis and TUNEL staining for apoptosis. Nuclear microscopy was used to quantify elemental concentrations in tumours. Serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were also determined. TUNEL results showed that 6h-PDT induced significantly more apoptosis compared to 1h-PDT (p<0.01). This was supported by nuclear microscopy showing an increase in calcium and a decrease in zinc levels (both known triggers of apoptosis) in 6h-PDT tumours compared to non-PDT tumours (p<0.05). These results further imply a zinc-mediated pathway in hypericin-PDT induced apoptosis. 6h-PDT also resulted in a significant increase in copper concentrations compared to non-PDT tumours (p<0.05). Serum VEGF levels measured after 6h-PDT were lower than those obtained after 1h-PDT. Overall tumour response to hypericin-PDT under low fluence and fluence rate and using a 6h DLI showed increased apoptosis and lower serum VEGF levels. This treatment regime is suitable for the alternative approach of multi-fraction PDT in which the tumour can be exposed to multiple PDT fractions for complete tumour response. This alternative approach might yield improved outcome.