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Stegelmeier AA, Santry LA, Guilleman MM, Matuszewska K, Minott JA, Yates JGE, Stevens BAY, Thomas SP, Vanderkamp S, Hanada K, Pei Y, Rghei AD, van Vloten JP, Pereira M, Thompson B, Major PP, Petrik JJ, Bridle BW, Wootton SK. AAV-Vectored Expression of the Vascular Normalizing Agents 3TSR and Fc3TSR, and the Anti-Angiogenic Bevacizumab Extends Survival in a Murine Model of End-Stage Epithelial Ovarian Carcinoma. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020362. [PMID: 35203573 PMCID: PMC8962366 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecological malignancy. The lack of effective treatments highlights the need for novel therapeutic interventions. The aim of this study was to investigate whether sustained adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector-mediated expression of vascular normalizing agents 3TSR and Fc3TSR and the antiangiogenic monoclonal antibody, Bevacizumab, with or without oncolytic virus treatment would improve survival in an orthotopic syngeneic mouse model of epithelial ovarian carcinoma. AAV vectors were administered 40 days post-tumor implantation and combined with oncolytic avian orthoavulavirus-1 (AOaV-1) 20 days later, at the peak of AAV-transgene expression, to ascertain whether survival could be extended. Flow cytometry conducted on blood samples, taken at an acute time point post-AOaV-1 administration (36 h), revealed a significant increase in activated NK cells in the blood of all mice that received AOaV-1. T cell analysis revealed a significant increase in CD8+ tumor specific T cells in the blood of AAV-Bevacizumab+AOaV-1 treated mice compared to control mice 10 days post AOaV-1 administration. Immunohistochemical staining of primary tumors harvested from a subset of mice euthanized 90 days post tumor implantation, when mice typically have large primary tumors, secondary peritoneal lesions, and extensive ascites fluid production, revealed that AAV-3TSR, AAV-Fc3TSR+AOaV-1, or AAV-Bevacizumab+AOaV-1 treated mice had significantly more tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells than PBS controls. Despite AAV-mediated transgene expression waning faster in tumor-bearing mice than in non-tumor bearing mice, all three of the AAV therapies significantly extended survival compared to control mice; with AAV-Bevacizumab performing the best in this model. However, combining AAV therapies with a single dose of AOaV-1 did not lead to significant extensions in survival compared to AAV therapies on their own, suggesting that additional doses of AOaV-1 may be required to improve efficacy in this model. These results suggest that vectorizing anti-angiogenic and vascular normalizing agents is a viable therapeutic option that warrants further investigation, including optimizing combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley A. Stegelmeier
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Lisa A. Santry
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Matthew M. Guilleman
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Kathy Matuszewska
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (K.M.); (M.P.); (J.J.P.)
| | - Jessica A. Minott
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Jacob G. E. Yates
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Brenna A. Y. Stevens
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Sylvia P. Thomas
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Sierra Vanderkamp
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Kiersten Hanada
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Yanlong Pei
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Amira D. Rghei
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Jacob P. van Vloten
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Madison Pereira
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (K.M.); (M.P.); (J.J.P.)
| | | | - Pierre P. Major
- Juravinski Cancer Centre, 699 Concession Street, Hamilton, ON L8V 5C2, Canada;
| | - James J. Petrik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (K.M.); (M.P.); (J.J.P.)
| | - Byram W. Bridle
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
| | - Sarah K. Wootton
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.A.S.); (L.A.S.); (M.M.G.); (J.A.M.); (J.G.E.Y.); (B.A.Y.S.); (S.P.T.); (S.V.); (K.H.); (Y.P.); (A.D.R.); (J.P.v.V.); (B.W.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-519-824-4210 (ext. 54729)
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Yang SH, Wang XL, Cai J, Wang SH. Diagnostic Value of Circulating PIGF in Combination with Flt-1 in Early Cervical Cancer. Curr Med Sci 2020; 40:973-978. [PMID: 33123910 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-020-2269-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The utility of placental growth factor (PlGF) and its receptor VEGFR-1 (Flt-1) as biomarkers for cervical cancer has not been clarified yet. To address this issue, we investigated the levels of soluble PlGF (sPlGF) and soluble Flt-1 (sFlt-1) in the serum from patients with early cervical cancer, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and controls in this study. sPlGF and sFlt-1 were detected in 44 preoperative patients with cervical cancer, 18 cases with CIN, and 20 controls by ELISA. It was found that both sPlGF and sFlt-1 were significantly increased in the cervical cancer group as compared with those in CIN and control groups. sPlGF presented a high diagnostic ability of cervical cancer, with a sensitivity of 61.36% and a specificity of 89.47%; and sFlt-1 with a sensitivity of 50.00% and a specificity of 92.11%. Importantly, the combined use of sPlGF and sFlt-1 could increase the diagnostic rate of cervical cancer, with a sensitivity of 70.45% and a specificity of 92.11%. These results indicated that both sPlGF and sFlt-1 in circulation can serve as possible valuable diagnostic biomarkers for cervical cancer, and the combined use of them can be more valuable to diagnose the patients with early cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shou-Hua Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Jing Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Shao-Hai Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Áyen Á, Jiménez Martínez Y, Marchal JA, Boulaiz H. Recent Progress in Gene Therapy for Ovarian Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19071930. [PMID: 29966369 PMCID: PMC6073662 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy in developed countries. This is due to the lack of specific symptoms that hinder early diagnosis and to the high relapse rate after treatment with radical surgery and chemotherapy. Hence, novel therapeutic modalities to improve clinical outcomes in ovarian malignancy are needed. Progress in gene therapy has allowed the development of several strategies against ovarian cancer. Most are focused on the design of improved vectors to enhance gene delivery on the one hand, and, on the other hand, on the development of new therapeutic tools based on the restoration or destruction of a deregulated gene, the use of suicide genes, genetic immunopotentiation, the inhibition of tumour angiogenesis, the alteration of pharmacological resistance, and oncolytic virotherapy. In the present manuscript, we review the recent advances made in gene therapy for ovarian cancer, highlighting the latest clinical trials experience, the current challenges and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángela Áyen
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
| | - Yaiza Jiménez Martínez
- Biopathology and Medicine Regenerative Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
| | - Juan A Marchal
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
- Biopathology and Medicine Regenerative Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
- Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
| | - Houria Boulaiz
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
- Biopathology and Medicine Regenerative Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
- Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain.
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Li G, Miao F, Zhu J, Chen Y. Anti‑angiogenesis gene therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma via systemic injection of mesenchymal stem cells engineered to secrete soluble Flt‑1. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:5799-5806. [PMID: 28849176 PMCID: PMC5865760 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti‑angiogenesis gene therapy has attracted interest as a potential treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Studies have indicated that soluble fms‑like tyrosine kinase‑1 (sFlt‑1) may suppress angiogenesis by sequestering free vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or by forming inactive heterodimers with VEGF receptor‑2. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been widely used as prospective delivery vehicles for therapeutic agents, owing to their ability to migrate towards tumor sites. In the present study, a subcutaneous HCC mouse model was used to assess the anti‑angiogenesis effects of lentivirus‑transfected MSCs engineered to secrete sFlt‑1 (LV‑sFlt‑1‑MSCs). LV‑sFlt‑1‑MSCs effectively secreted sFlt‑1, which inhibited tube formation in vitro. MSCs labeled with green fluorescence protein primarily migrated to tumor sites in vivo. An immunohistochemical assay indicated that microvessel density was reduced in mice treated with LV‑sFlt‑1‑MSCs, compared with the control group treated with PBS. Additionally, LV‑sFlt‑1‑MSCs inhibited tumor growth and prolonged survival in an HCC mouse model via systemic injection. Overall, the present study was designed to investigate the potential of LV‑sFlt‑1‑MSCs for anti‑angiogenesis gene therapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanglin Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Fei Miao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Fuzhou, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Jinhai Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Yanling Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
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Santiago-Ortiz JL, Schaffer DV. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors in cancer gene therapy. J Control Release 2016; 240:287-301. [PMID: 26796040 PMCID: PMC4940329 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/02/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gene delivery vectors based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) have been utilized in a large number of gene therapy clinical trials, which have demonstrated their strong safety profile and increasingly their therapeutic efficacy for treating monogenic diseases. For cancer applications, AAV vectors have been harnessed for delivery of an extensive repertoire of transgenes to preclinical models and, more recently, clinical trials involving certain cancers. This review describes the applications of AAV vectors to cancer models and presents developments in vector engineering and payload design aimed at tailoring AAV vectors for transduction and treatment of cancer cells. We also discuss the current status of AAV clinical development in oncology and future directions for AAV in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge L Santiago-Ortiz
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - David V Schaffer
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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Oren R, Addadi Y, Narunsky Haziza L, Dafni H, Rotkopf R, Meir G, Fishman A, Neeman M. Fibroblast recruitment as a tool for ovarian cancer detection and targeted therapy. Int J Cancer 2016; 139:1788-98. [PMID: 27242346 PMCID: PMC5565769 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.30209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic ovarian cancer, the most lethal of gynecologic malignancies, is typically managed by debulking surgery, followed by chemotherapy. However, despite significant efforts, survival rate remains low. We have previously demonstrated, in mouse models, a specific systemic homing of labeled fibroblasts to solid ovarian tumors. Here, we demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing this specific homing of genetically modified fibroblasts for detection and targeted therapy of orthotopic metastatic ovarian carcinoma model in immune-deficient mice. Using an in vivo metastatic mouse model for ovarian cancer, we demonstrated that fibroblasts expressing fluorescent reporters injected intra-peritoneally, were specifically recruited to peritoneal tumor nodules (resulting in 93-100% co-localization). We further used fibroblasts over expressing the soluble receptor variant of VEGFR1 (s-Flt1). Mice bearing tumors were injected weekly with either control or s-Flt1 expressing fibroblasts. Injection of s-Flt1 expressing fibroblasts resulted in a significant reduction in the ascites volume, reduced vascularization of adherent metastases, and improved overall survival. Using fluorescently labeled fibroblasts for tumor detection with readily available intra-operative fluorescence imaging tools may be useful for tumor staging and directing biopsies or surgical efforts during exploratory or debulking surgery. Fibroblasts may serve as a beacon pointing to the otherwise invisible metastases in the peritoneal cavity of ovarian cancer patients. Utilizing the recruited fibroblasts also for targeted delivery of anti angiogenic or antitumor molecules may aid in controlling tumor progression. Thus, these results suggest a novel approach for targeting ovarian tumor metastases for both tumor detection and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roni Oren
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yoseph Addadi
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Lian Narunsky Haziza
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Hagit Dafni
- Department of Veterinary Resources, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ron Rotkopf
- Department of Biological Services, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Gila Meir
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ami Fishman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
| | - Michal Neeman
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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Takahashi Y, Saga Y, Koyanagi T, Takei Y, Machida S, Taneichi A, Mizukami H, Sato Y, Matsubara S, Fujiwara H. Vasohibin-1 expression inhibits advancement of ovarian cancer producing various angiogenic factors. Cancer Sci 2016; 107:629-37. [PMID: 26893100 PMCID: PMC4970829 DOI: 10.1111/cas.12911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2015] [Revised: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasohibin‐1 (VASH1) is a negative feedback regulator of angiogenesis, the first to be discovered, and was identified in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐stimulated vascular endothelial cells. Vasohibin‐1 inhibits abnormal vascularization induced by various angiogenic factors including fibroblast growth factor and platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF), in addition to VEGF. By focusing on this characteristic of VASH1, we investigated the antitumor effects of VASH1 expression on ovarian cancer cells that produce different angiogenic factors. By using a high VEGF‐producing ovarian cancer cell line, SHIN‐3, and a high PDGF‐producing ovarian cancer cell line, KOC‐2S, the cells were transfected with either a VEGF antagonist, soluble VEGF receptor‐1 (sVEGFR‐1, or sFlt‐1), or VASH1 genes to establish their respective cellular expression. The characteristics of these transfectants were compared with controls. We previously reported that the expression of sFlt‐1 inhibited tumor vascularization and growth of high VEGF‐producing ovarian cancer cells, reduced peritoneal dissemination and ascites development, and prolonged the survival time of the host. However, in the current study, the expression of sFlt‐1 had no such effect on the high PDGF‐producing ovarian cancer cells used here, whereas VASH1 expression inhibited tumor vascularization and growth, not only in high VEGF‐producing cells, but also in high PDGF‐producing cells, reduced their peritoneal dissemination and ascites, and prolonged the survival time of the host. These results suggest that VASH1 is an effective treatment for ovarian cancer cells that produce different angiogenic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshifumi Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yasushi Saga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takahiro Koyanagi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yuji Takei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shizuo Machida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Akiyo Taneichi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Mizukami
- Division of Genetic Therapeutics, Center for Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yasufumi Sato
- Department of Vascular Biology, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Shigeki Matsubara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Fujiwara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
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Takahashi Y, Saga Y, Koyanagi T, Takei Y, Machida S, Taneichi A, Mizukami H, Sato Y, Matsubara S, Fujiwara H. The angiogenesis regulator vasohibin-1 inhibits ovarian cancer growth and peritoneal dissemination and prolongs host survival. Int J Oncol 2015; 47:2057-63. [PMID: 26460696 PMCID: PMC4665704 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2015.3193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasohibin-1 (VASH1) is expressed in vascular endothelial cells stimulated by several angiogenic growth factors and displays autocrine activity to regulate angiogenesis via a negative feedback mechanism. In this study, we investigated the effect of VASH1 on ovarian cancer progression using VASH1-expressing ovarian cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The growth ability of ovarian cancer cells engineered to express the VASH1 gene remained unchanged in vitro. However, we showed that VASH1 secretion by tumor cells inhibited the growth of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Further, animal experiments showed that VASH1 expression inhibited tumor angiogenesis and growth. In a murine model of peritoneal dissemination of ovarian cancer cells, VASH1 inhibited peritoneal dissemination and ascites, resulting in significantly prolonged survival in mice. This indicates that VASH1 exerts an antitumor effect on ovarian cancer by inhibiting angiogenesis in the tumor environment. These findings suggest that a novel therapy based on VASH1 could be a useful therapeutic strategy for ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshifumi Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yasushi Saga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takahiro Koyanagi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yuji Takei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Sizuo Machida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Akiyo Taneichi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Mizukami
- Division of Genetic Therapeutics, Center for Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yasufumi Sato
- Department of Vascular Biology, Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Shigeki Matsubara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Fujiwara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
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Takahashi K, Mizukami H, Saga Y, Takei Y, Urabe M, Kume A, Machida S, Fujiwara H, Suzuki M, Ozawa K. Suppression of lymph node and lung metastases of endometrial cancer by muscle-mediated expression of soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3. Cancer Sci 2013; 104:1107-11. [PMID: 23614535 DOI: 10.1111/cas.12184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2013] [Revised: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymph node metastasis is the most important prognostic factor of endometrial cancer. However, effective therapy has not been established against lymph node metastasis. In this study, we explored the efficacy of gene therapy targeting lymph node metastasis of endometrial cancer by suppressing the action of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C through soluble VEGF receptor-3 (sVEGFR-3) expression. For this purpose, we first conducted a model experiment by introducing sVEGFR-3 cDNA into an endometrial cancer cell line HEC1A and established HEC1A/sVEGFR-3 cell line with high sVEGFR-3 expression. The conditioned medium of HEC1A/sVEGFR-3 cells inhibited lymphatic endothelial cell growth in vitro, and sVEGFR-3 expression in HEC1A cells suppressed in vivo lymph node and lung metastases without inhibiting the growth of a subcutaneously inoculated tumor. To validate the therapeutic efficacy, adeno-associated virus vectors encoding sVEGFR-3 were injected into the skeletal muscle of mice with lymph node metastasis. Lymph node and lung metastases of HEC1A cells were completely suppressed by the muscle-mediated expression of sVEGFR-3 using adeno-associated virus vectors. These results suggest the possibility of gene therapy against lymph node and lung metastases of endometrial cancer by using muscle-mediated expression of sVEGFR-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayoko Takahashi
- Division of Genetics Therapeutics, Center for Molecular Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
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10
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Antiangiogenic gene therapy with soluble VEGF-receptors -1, -2 and -3 together with paclitaxel prolongs survival of mice with human ovarian carcinoma. Int J Cancer 2012; 131:2394-401. [DOI: 10.1002/ijc.27495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2011] [Accepted: 02/02/2012] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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11
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Takahashi K, Saga Y, Mizukami H, Takei Y, Urabe M, Kume A, Suzuki M, Ozawa K. Development of a mouse model for lymph node metastasis with endometrial cancer. Cancer Sci 2011; 102:2272-7. [PMID: 21910784 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.2011.02099.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Controlling lymph node metastasis is currently a key issue in cancer therapy. Lymph node metastasis is one of the most important prognostic factors in various types of cancers, including endometrial cancer. Vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) plays a crucial role in lymphangiogenesis, and is implicated to play an important role in lymph node metastasis. To evaluate the role of VEGF-C in lymph node metastasis, we developed an animal model by using an endometrial cancer cell line, HEC1A. This cell line is not invasive by nature and secretes moderate amounts of VEGF-C; intrauterine injection of HEC1A cells into Balb/c nude mice resulted in uterine cancer with lymph node metastasis after 8 weeks. To analyze the contribution of VEGF-C to lymph node metastasis, its corresponding gene was stably introduced into HEC1A cells (HEC1A/VEGF-C), which then produced more than 10 times the amount of VEGF-C. The number of lymph node metastases was significantly higher in HEC1A/VEGF-C cells than in HEC1A cells (3.2 vs 1.1 nodes/animal, respectively). Augmented lymphangiogenesis was observed within tumors when HEC1A/VEGF-C cells were inoculated. These results indicate that VEGF-C plays a critical role in lymph node metastasis, in addition to serving as a platform to test the efficacy of various therapeutic modalities against lymph node metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayoko Takahashi
- Division of Genetic Therapeutics, Center for Molecular Medicine, Tochigi, Japan
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12
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Yang F, Jin C, Jiang YJ, Li J, Di Y, Fu DL. Potential role of soluble VEGFR-1 in antiangiogenesis therapy for cancer. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2011; 11:541-9. [PMID: 21504321 DOI: 10.1586/era.10.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Antiangiogenesis therapy for cancer may inhibit tumor growth and metastasis when combined with chemotherapy, and has received a great deal of attention over recent years. However, accurate assessments of biological efficacy and toxicity are major hurdles for this approach. Soluble VEGF receptor-1 (sFlt-1) has been reported to have a role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, the hallmark of which is similar to the toxicities related to antiangiogenesis therapy. Clinical evidence and animal studies support the hypothesis that sFlt-1 may contribute to hypertension and proteinuria in patients treated with anti-VEGF agents. The intratumoral imbalance between sFlt-1 and VEGF levels correlates with the malignancy grades of tumors, survival and responsiveness to therapy. The therapeutic potential of sFlt-1 as an antiangiogenic agent has been validated by an increasing number of preclinical studies. Furthermore, antiangiogenesis therapy changes the concentration of circulating VEGF, PlGF, sFlt-1, soluble VEGFR-2 and even soluble VEGFR-3, with some of these being identified as potential biomarkers of response and toxicity. All these factors suggest that sFlt-1 may prove invaluable for driving the future development of molecular therapeutics with novel targets and mechanisms of action, and its impact on antiangiogenesis therapy in cancers needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Yang
- Pancreatic Disease Institute, Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Huashan Hospital, 12 Central Urumqi Road, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
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13
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Samaranayake H, Määttä AM, Pikkarainen J, Ylä-Herttuala S. Future prospects and challenges of antiangiogenic cancer gene therapy. Hum Gene Ther 2010; 21:381-96. [PMID: 20163246 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2010.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In 1971 Judah Folkman proposed the concept of antiangiogenesis as a therapeutic target for cancer. More than 30 years later, concept became reality with the approval of the antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) monoclonal antibody bevacizumab as a first-line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer. Monoclonal antibodies and small molecular drugs are the most widely applied methods for inhibition of angiogenesis. The efficacy of these antiangiogenic modalities has been proven, in both preclinical and clinical settings. Although angiogenesis plays a major role in wound healing, hypoxia, and in the female reproductive cycle, inhibition of angiogenesis seems to be a relatively safe therapeutic option against cancers, and has therefore become a logical arena for a wide range of experimentation. The twentieth century has shown the boom of gene therapy and thus it has been applied also in the antiangiogenic setting. This review summarizes methods to induce antiangiogenic responses with gene therapy and discusses the obstacles and future prospects of antiangiogenic cancer gene therapy.
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14
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Oba M, Vachutinsky Y, Miyata K, Kano MR, Ikeda S, Nishiyama N, Itaka K, Miyazono K, Koyama H, Kataoka K. Antiangiogenic gene therapy of solid tumor by systemic injection of polyplex micelles loading plasmid DNA encoding soluble flt-1. Mol Pharm 2010; 7:501-9. [PMID: 20178335 DOI: 10.1021/mp9002317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In this study, a polyplex micelle was developed as a potential formulation for antiangiogenic gene therapy of subcutaneous pancreatic tumor model. Poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(l-lysine) block copolymers (PEG-PLys) with thiol groups in the side chain of the PLys segment were synthesized and applied for preparation of disulfide cross-linked polyplex micelles through ion complexation with plasmid DNA (pDNA) encoding the soluble form of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor-1 (sFlt-1), which is a potent antiangiogenic molecule. Antitumor activity and gene expression of polyplex micelles with various cross-linking rates were evaluated in mice bearing subcutaneously xenografted BxPC3 cell line, derived from human pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and polyplex micelles with optimal cross-linking rate achieved effective suppression of tumor growth. Significant gene expression of this micelle was detected selectively in tumor tissue, and its antiangiogenic effect was confirmed by decreased vascular density inside the tumor. Therefore, the disulfide cross-linked polyplex micelle loading sFlt-1 pDNA has a great potential for antiangiogenic therapy against subcutaneous pancreatic tumor model by systemic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Oba
- Department of Clinical Vascular Regeneration, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
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15
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Polyplex nanomicelle promotes hydrodynamic gene introduction to skeletal muscle. J Control Release 2010; 143:112-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2009.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2009] [Revised: 12/08/2009] [Accepted: 12/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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16
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Vachutinsky Y, Oba M, Miyata K, Hiki S, Kano MR, Nishiyama N, Koyama H, Miyazono K, Kataoka K. Antiangiogenic gene therapy of experimental pancreatic tumor by sFlt-1 plasmid DNA carried by RGD-modified crosslinked polyplex micelles. J Control Release 2010; 149:51-7. [PMID: 20138936 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2010.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2009] [Revised: 12/21/2009] [Accepted: 02/01/2010] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Disulfide crosslinked polyplex micelles with RGD peptides were formed through ion complexation of thiolated c(RGDfK)-poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(L-lysine) (c(RGDfK)-PEG-P(Lys-SH)) and plasmid DNA encoding sFlt-1 and tested for their therapeutic effect in BxPC3 pancreatic adenocarcinoma tumor bearing mice. These micelles, systemically injected, demonstrated significant inhibition of tumor growth up to day 18, as a result of the antiangiogenic effect that was confirmed by vascular density measurements. Significant therapeutic activity of the 15% crosslinked micelle (c(RGDfK)-PEG-P(Lys-SH15)) was achieved by combined effect of increased tumor accumulation, interaction with endothelial cells and enhanced intracellular uptake through receptor-mediated endocytosis. These results suggest that RGD targeted crosslinked polyplex micelles can be effective plasmid DNA carriers for antiangiogenic gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yelena Vachutinsky
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
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17
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Antiangiogenic gene therapy with soluble VEGFR-1, -2, and -3 reduces the growth of solid human ovarian carcinoma in mice. Mol Ther 2008; 17:278-84. [PMID: 19050699 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2008.258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied antiangiogenic and antilymphangiogenic effects of sVEGFR-1 (sFlt-1), sVEGFR-2 (sFlk-1/KDR), and sVEGFR-3 (sFlt-4) gene transfers and their combinations in intraperitoneal ovarian cancer xenograft mice (Balb/c-Anu, n = 55). Gene therapy was initiated when the presence of sizable tumors was confirmed in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Adenovirus-mediated gene transfer was performed intravenously via tail vein as follows: AdLacZ as a control (group I), AdsFlt-1 (group II), AdsKDR (group III), AdsFlt-4 (group IV) and two combination groups of AdsFlt-1 and AdsFlt-4 (group V) and AdsFlt-1, AdsKDR, and AdsFlt-4 (group VI). Antitumor effectiveness was assessed by sequential MRI, immunohistochemistry, microvessel density, overall tumor growth, and survival time. In combination group VI, intraperitoneal tumors were significantly smaller than in the control group at the end of the follow-up (P < 0.001). Furthermore, in group VI the microvessel density (microvessels/mm(2)) in tumor tissue and the total area of tumors covered by microvessels were significantly smaller than in the controls. One mouse in group V was cured. The combined antiangiogenic gene therapy with soluble VEGFRs reduced tumor growth, tumor vascularity, and ascites formation in ovarian cancer xenografts. The results suggest that the combined antiangiogenic gene therapy is a potential approach for the treatment of ovarian cancer patients.
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18
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Curtin JF, Candolfi M, Xiong W, Lowenstein PR, Castro MG. Turning the gene tap off; implications of regulating gene expression for cancer therapeutics. Mol Cancer Ther 2008; 7:439-48. [PMID: 18347132 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-07-2328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Cancer poses a tremendous therapeutic challenge worldwide, highlighting the critical need for developing novel therapeutics. A promising cancer treatment modality is gene therapy, which is a form of molecular medicine designed to introduce into target cells genetic material with therapeutic intent. Anticancer gene therapy strategies currently used in preclinical models, and in some cases in the clinic, include proapoptotic genes, oncolytic/replicative vectors, conditional cytotoxic approaches, inhibition of angiogenesis, inhibition of growth factor signaling, inactivation of oncogenes, inhibition of tumor invasion and stimulation of the immune system. The translation of these novel therapeutic modalities from the preclinical setting to the clinic has been driven by encouraging preclinical efficacy data and advances in gene delivery technologies. One area of intense research involves the ability to accurately regulate the levels of therapeutic gene expression to achieve enhanced efficacy and provide the capability to switch gene expression off completely if adverse side effects should arise. This feature could also be implemented to switch gene expression off when a successful therapeutic outcome ensues. Here, we will review recent developments related to the engineering of transcriptional switches within gene delivery systems, which could be implemented in clinical gene therapy applications directed at the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- James F Curtin
- University of California-Los Angeles and Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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Abstract
AAV (adeno-associated virus) vectors are considered to be promising gene-delivery vehicles for gene therapy, because they are derived from non-pathogenic virus, efficiently transduce non-dividing cells, and cause long-term gene expression. Appropriate AAV serotypes are utilized depending on the type of target cells. Among various neurological disorders, Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most promising candidates of gene therapy. PD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that predominantly affects dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. One of the major approaches to gene therapy of PD is the intrastriatal expression of dopamine (DA)-synthesizing enzyme genes. As for the initial step of clinical application, AAV vector-mediated AADC (aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase; the enzyme converting L-DOPA to DA) gene transfer in combination with oral administration of L-DOPA would be appropriate, since DA production can be regulated by adjusting the dose of L-DOPA. Second, intramuscular injection of AAV vectors is appropriate to protein-supplement gene therapy. Monogenic diseases such as hemophilia and Fabry disease are suitable candidates. Regarding cancer gene therapy, AAV vectors may be utilized to inhibit tumor angiogenesis, metastasis, and invasion. When long-term transgene expression in stem cells is needed, a therapeutic gene should be introduced with a minimal risk of insertional mutagenesis. To this end, site-specific integration into the AAVS1 locus on the chromosome 19 (19q13.4) by using the integration machinery of AAV would be particularly valuable.
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20
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Persano L, Crescenzi M, Indraccolo S. Anti-angiogenic gene therapy of cancer: current status and future prospects. Mol Aspects Med 2007; 28:87-114. [PMID: 17306361 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2006.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2006] [Accepted: 12/18/2006] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of endogenous inhibitors of angiogenesis has made it possible to test the hypothesis that blocking the angiogenic switch may keep tumor growth in check, and has added a new investigational arm to the field of cancer gene therapy. Angiogenesis inhibitors are heterogeneous in origin and potency, and their growing list includes proteolysis products of larger molecules with a different function, such as angiostatin, endostatin and vasostatin, modulators of vascular endothelial growth factor activity, such as sFLT-1, and some cytokines/chemokines with marked anti-endothelial activity, such as IL-12, IFN-alpha, and CXCL10. Pre-clinical studies have clearly indicated that these factors are essentially cytostatic and that they need long-term administration in order to obtain prolonged anti-tumor effects, representing a rational basis for their delivery by a gene therapy approach. The experimental approaches attempted to date, reviewed herein, indicate overall that anti-angiogenic gene therapy has efficacy mainly as an early intervention strategy and that a better understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying resistance to angiogenesis inhibition, as well as appropriate combined treatments, are required to generate a conceptual advancement which could drive the field towards successful management of established tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Persano
- Department of Oncology and Surgical Sciences, Oncology Section, University of Padova, Via Gattamelata, 64, 35128 Padova, Italy
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