1
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Leckie J, Yokota T. Potential of Cell-Penetrating Peptide-Conjugated Antisense Oligonucleotides for the Treatment of SMA. Molecules 2024; 29:2658. [PMID: 38893532 PMCID: PMC11173757 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29112658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a severe neuromuscular disorder that is caused by mutations in the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene, hindering the production of functional survival motor neuron (SMN) proteins. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), a versatile DNA-like drug, are adept at binding to target RNA to prevent translation or promote alternative splicing. Nusinersen is an FDA-approved ASO for the treatment of SMA. It effectively promotes alternative splicing in pre-mRNA transcribed from the SMN2 gene, an analog of the SMN1 gene, to produce a greater amount of full-length SMN protein, to compensate for the loss of functional protein translated from SMN1. Despite its efficacy in ameliorating SMA symptoms, the cellular uptake of these ASOs is suboptimal, and their inability to penetrate the CNS necessitates invasive lumbar punctures. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), which can be conjugated to ASOs, represent a promising approach to improve the efficiency of these treatments for SMA and have the potential to transverse the blood-brain barrier to circumvent the need for intrusive intrathecal injections and their associated adverse effects. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of ASO therapies, their application for the treatment of SMA, and the encouraging potential of CPPs as delivery systems to improve ASO uptake and overall efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Leckie
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
- The Friends of Garrett Cumming Research & Muscular Dystrophy Canada HM Toupin Neurological Sciences Research, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
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2
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Pavlova N, Traykovska M, Penchovsky R. Targeting FMN, TPP, SAM-I, and glmS Riboswitches with Chimeric Antisense Oligonucleotides for Completely Rational Antibacterial Drug Development. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1607. [PMID: 37998809 PMCID: PMC10668854 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12111607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial drug resistance has emerged as a significant challenge in contemporary medicine due to the proliferation of numerous bacterial strains resistant to all existing antibiotics. Meanwhile, riboswitches have emerged as promising targets for discovering antibacterial drugs. Riboswitches are regulatory elements in certain bacterial mRNAs that can bind to specific molecules and control gene expression via transcriptional termination, prevention of translation, or mRNA destabilization. By targeting riboswitches, we aim to develop innovative strategies to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and enhance the efficacy of antibacterial treatments. This convergence of challenges and opportunities underscores the ongoing quest to revolutionize medical approaches against evolving bacterial threats. For the first time, this innovative review describes the rational design and applications of chimeric antisense oligonucleotides as antibacterial agents targeting four riboswitches selected based on genome-wide bioinformatic analyses. The antisense oligonucleotides are coupled with the cell-penetrating oligopeptide pVEC, which penetrates Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and specifically targets glmS, FMN, TPP, and SAM-I riboswitches in Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Escherichia coli. The average antibiotic dosage of antisense oligonucleotides that inhibits 80% of bacterial growth is around 700 nM (4.5 μg/mL). Antisense oligonucleotides do not exhibit toxicity in human cell lines at this concentration. The results demonstrate that these riboswitches are suitable targets for antibacterial drug development using antisense oligonucleotide technology. The approach is fully rational because selecting suitable riboswitch targets and designing ASOs that target them are based on predefined criteria. The approach can be used to develop narrow or broad-spectrum antibiotics against multidrug-resistant bacterial strains for a short time. The approach is easily adaptive to new resistance using targeting NGS technology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Robert Penchovsky
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
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3
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Agoni C, Stavropoulos I, Kirwan A, Mysior MM, Holton T, Kranjc T, Simpson JC, Roche HM, Shields DC. Cell-Penetrating Milk-Derived Peptides with a Non-Inflammatory Profile. Molecules 2023; 28:6999. [PMID: 37836842 PMCID: PMC10574647 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28196999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Milk-derived peptides are known to confer anti-inflammatory effects. We hypothesised that milk-derived cell-penetrating peptides might modulate inflammation in useful ways. Using computational techniques, we identified and synthesised peptides from the milk protein Alpha-S1-casein that were predicted to be cell-penetrating using a machine learning predictor. We modified the interpretation of the prediction results to consider the effects of histidine. Peptides were then selected for testing to determine their cell penetrability and anti-inflammatory effects using HeLa cells and J774.2 mouse macrophage cell lines. The selected peptides all showed cell penetrating behaviour, as judged using confocal microscopy of fluorescently labelled peptides. None of the peptides had an effect on either the NF-κB transcription factor or TNFα and IL-1β secretion. Thus, the identified milk-derived sequences have the ability to be internalised into the cell without affecting cell homeostatic mechanisms such as NF-κB activation. These peptides are worthy of further investigation for other potential bioactivities or as a naturally derived carrier to promote the cellular internalisation of other active peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clement Agoni
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland (M.M.M.); (J.C.S.)
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 W6F6 Dublin 4, Ireland
- Discipline of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Ilias Stavropoulos
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland (M.M.M.); (J.C.S.)
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 W6F6 Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Anna Kirwan
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland (M.M.M.); (J.C.S.)
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 N2E5 Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Margharitha M. Mysior
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland (M.M.M.); (J.C.S.)
- Institute of Food and Health, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Therese Holton
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland (M.M.M.); (J.C.S.)
- Institute of Food and Health, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Tilen Kranjc
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland (M.M.M.); (J.C.S.)
- Institute of Food and Health, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Jeremy C. Simpson
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland (M.M.M.); (J.C.S.)
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 N2E5 Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Helen M. Roche
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland (M.M.M.); (J.C.S.)
- Institute for Global Food Security, Queens University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Denis C. Shields
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin 4, Ireland (M.M.M.); (J.C.S.)
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 W6F6 Dublin 4, Ireland
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4
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Macyszyn J, Chyży P, Burmistrz M, Lobka M, Miszkiewicz J, Wojciechowska M, Trylska J. Structural dynamics influences the antibacterial activity of a cell-penetrating peptide (KFF) 3K. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14826. [PMID: 37684254 PMCID: PMC10491836 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38745-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the widespread demand for novel antibacterial agents, we modified a cell-penetrating peptide (KFF)3K to transform it into an antibacterial peptide. Namely, we inserted a hydrocarbon staple into the (KFF)3K sequence to induce and stabilize its membrane-active secondary structure. The staples were introduced at two positions, (KFF)3K[5-9] and (KFF)3K[2-6], to retain the initial amphipathic character of the unstapled peptide. The stapled analogues are protease resistant contrary to (KFF)3K; 90% of the stapled (KFF)3K[5-9] peptide remained undigested after incubation in chymotrypsin solution. The stapled peptides showed antibacterial activity (with minimal inhibitory concentrations in the range of 2-16 µM) against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, contrary to unmodified (KFF)3K, which had no antibacterial effect against any strain at concentrations up to 32 µM. Also, both stapled peptides adopted an α-helical structure in the buffer and micellar environment, contrary to a mostly undefined structure of the unstapled (KFF)3K in the buffer. We found that the antibacterial activity of (KFF)3K analogues is related to their disruptive effect on cell membranes and we showed that by stapling this cell-penetrating peptide, we can induce its antibacterial character.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Macyszyn
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Chyży
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Burmistrz
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Lobka
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Miszkiewicz
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Joanna Trylska
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
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5
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Casciaro B, Loffredo MR, Cappiello F, O’Sullivan N, Tortora C, Manzer R, Karmakar S, Haskell A, Hasan SK, Mangoni ML. KDEON WK-11: A short antipseudomonal peptide with promising potential. Front Chem 2022; 10:1000765. [PMID: 36465859 PMCID: PMC9713011 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.1000765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The plight of antimicrobial resistance continues to limit the availability of antibiotic treatment effective in combating resistant bacterial infections. Despite efforts made to rectify this issue and minimise its effects on both patients and the wider community, progress in this area remains minimal. Here, we de-novo designed a peptide named KDEON WK-11, building on previous work establishing effective residues and structures active in distinguished antimicrobial peptides such as lactoferrin. We assessed its antimicrobial activity against an array of bacterial strains and identified its most potent effect, against Pseudomonas aeruginosa with an MIC value of 3.12 μM, lower than its counterparts developed with similar residues and chain lengths. We then determined its anti-biofilm properties, potential mechanism of action and in vitro cytotoxicity. We identified that KDEON WK-11 had a broad range of antimicrobial activity and specific capabilities to fight Pseudomonas aeruginosa with low in vitro cytotoxicity and promising potential to express anti-lipopolysaccharide qualities, which could be exploited to expand its properties into an anti-sepsis agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Casciaro
- Laboratory Affiliated to Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Loffredo
- Laboratory Affiliated to Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Floriana Cappiello
- Laboratory Affiliated to Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Niamh O’Sullivan
- Laboratory Affiliated to Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carola Tortora
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, “Department of Excellence 2018–2022”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rizwan Manzer
- Iuventis Technologies Inc. (DBA Immunotrex Biologics), Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Sougata Karmakar
- Iuventis Technologies Inc. (DBA Immunotrex Biologics), Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Alan Haskell
- Iuventis Technologies Inc. (DBA Immunotrex Biologics), Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Syed K. Hasan
- Iuventis Technologies Inc. (DBA Immunotrex Biologics), Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Maria Luisa Mangoni
- Laboratory Affiliated to Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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6
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Ji X, Yang X, Shi C, Guo D, Wang X, Messina JM, Meng Q, Urao N, Cooney R, Luo J. Functionalized core-shell nanogel scavenger for immune modulation therapy in sepsis. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2022; 5:2200127. [PMID: 36590645 PMCID: PMC9797201 DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202200127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Sepsis is a complex, life-threatening hyperinflammatory syndrome associated with organ failure and high mortality due to lack of effective treatment options. Here we report a core-shell hydrogel nanoparticle with the core functionalized with telodendrimer (TD) nanotrap (NT) to control hyperinflammation in sepsis. The combination of multi-valent charged and hydrophobic moieties in TD enables effective binding with biomolecules in NT. The higher crosslinking in the shell structure of nanogel excludes the abundant large serum proteins and allows for size-selectivity in scavenging the medium-sized septic molecules (10-30 kDa), e.g., lipopolysaccharides (LPS, a potent endotoxin in sepsis), thus reducing cytokine production. At the same time, the core-shell TD NT nanogel captures the over-flowing proinflammatory cytokines effectively both in vitro and in vivo from biological fluids to further control hyperinflammation. Intraperitoneal injection of core-shell TD NT nanogel effectively attenuates NF-κB activation and cytokine production in LPS-induced septic mouse models. These results indicate the potential applications of the injectable TD NT core-shell nanogel to attenuate local or systemic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotian Ji
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Xiguang Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Changying Shi
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Dandan Guo
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Xiaojing Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Jennifer M Messina
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Qinghe Meng
- Department of Surgery, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Norifumi Urao
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
- Upstate Sepsis Interdisciplinary Research Center, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Robert Cooney
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
- Department of Surgery, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
- Upstate Sepsis Interdisciplinary Research Center, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Juntao Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
- Department of Surgery, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
- Upstate Cancer Center, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
- Upstate Sepsis Interdisciplinary Research Center, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
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7
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Live Cell Imaging of Peptide Uptake Using a Microfluidic Platform. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10228-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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8
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Sandín D, Valle J, Chaves-Arquero B, Prats-Ejarque G, Larrosa MN, González-López JJ, Jiménez MÁ, Boix E, Andreu D, Torrent M. Rationally Modified Antimicrobial Peptides from the N-Terminal Domain of Human RNase 3 Show Exceptional Serum Stability. J Med Chem 2021; 64:11472-11482. [PMID: 34342438 PMCID: PMC8483441 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Multidrug
resistance against conventional antibiotics poses an
important threat to human health. In this context, antimicrobial peptides
(AMPs) have been extensively studied for their antibacterial activity
and promising results have been shown so far. However, AMPs tend to
be rather vulnerable to protease degradation, which offsets their
therapeutic appeal. Here, we demonstrate how replacing functional
residues in the antimicrobial region of human RNase 3—also
named eosinophil cationic protein—by non-natural amino acids
increases stability in human serum. These changes were also shown
to reduce the hemolytic effect of the peptides in general terms, whereas
the antimicrobial activity was reasonably preserved. Digestion profiles enabled us to design new peptides
with superior stability and lower toxicity that could become relevant
candidates to reach clinical stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Sandín
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Javier Valle
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona 08003, Spain
| | - Belén Chaves-Arquero
- Departamento de Química-Física Biológica, Instituto de Química Física Rocasolano (IQFR-CSIC), Serrano 119, Madrid 28006, Spain
| | - Guillem Prats-Ejarque
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - María Nieves Larrosa
- Servei de Microbiologia, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona 08035, Spain.,Departament de Genètica i Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Juan José González-López
- Servei de Microbiologia, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona 08035, Spain.,Departament de Genètica i Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - María Ángeles Jiménez
- Departamento de Química-Física Biológica, Instituto de Química Física Rocasolano (IQFR-CSIC), Serrano 119, Madrid 28006, Spain
| | - Ester Boix
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - David Andreu
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona 08003, Spain
| | - Marc Torrent
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
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9
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Desale K, Kuche K, Jain S. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs): an overview of applications for improving the potential of nanotherapeutics. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:1153-1188. [PMID: 33355322 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm01755h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In the field of nanotherapeutics, gaining cellular entry into the cytoplasm of the target cell continues to be an ultimate challenge. There are many physicochemical factors such as charge, size and molecular weight of the molecules and delivery vehicles, which restrict their cellular entry. Hence, to dodge such situations, a class of short peptides called cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) was brought into use. CPPs can effectively interact with the cell membrane and can assist in achieving the desired intracellular entry. Such strategy is majorly employed in the field of cancer therapy and diagnosis, but now it is also used for other purposes such as evaluation of atherosclerotic plaques, determination of thrombin levels and HIV therapy. Thus, the current review expounds on each of these mentioned aspects. Further, the review briefly summarizes the basic know-how of CPPs, their utility as therapeutic molecules, their use in cancer therapy, tumor imaging and their assistance to nanocarriers in improving their membrane penetrability. The review also discusses the challenges faced with CPPs pertaining to their stability and also mentions the strategies to overcome them. Thus, in a nutshell, this review will assist in understanding how CPPs can present novel possibilities for resolving the conventional issues faced with the present-day nanotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalyani Desale
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), S.A.S. Nagar, Punjab-160062, India.
| | - Kaushik Kuche
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), S.A.S. Nagar, Punjab-160062, India.
| | - Sanyog Jain
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), S.A.S. Nagar, Punjab-160062, India.
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10
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Korivi M, Huang YW, Liu BR. Cell-Penetrating Peptides as a Potential Drug Delivery System for Effective Treatment of Diabetes. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 27:816-825. [PMID: 33076803 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666201019102640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from the body's inability to produce and/or use insulin. Patients with T2D often have hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress, which then lead to hypertension, chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk of morbidity and mortality (9th leading cause globally). Insulin and related pharmacological therapies are widely used to manage T2D, despite their limitations. Efficient drug delivery systems (DDS) that control drug kinetics may decrease side effects, allow for efficient targeting, and increase the bioavailability of drugs to achieve maximum therapeutic benefits. Thus, the development of effective DDS is crucial to beat diabetes. METHODS Here, we introduced a highly bioavailable vector, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), as a powerful DDS to overcome limitations of free drug administration. RESULTS CPPs are short peptides that serve as a potent tool for delivering therapeutic agents across cell membranes. Various cargoes, including proteins, DNA, RNA, liposomes, therapeutic molecules, and nanomaterials, generally retain their bioactivity upon entering cells. The mechanisms of CPPs/cargoes intracellular entry are classified into two parts: endocytic pathways and direct membrane translocation. In this article, we focus on the applications of CPPs/therapeutic agents in the treatment of diabetes. Hypoglycemic drugs with CPPs intervention can enhance therapeutic effectiveness, and CPP-mediated drug delivery can facilitate the actions of insulin. Numerous studies indicate that CPPs can effectively deliver insulin, produce synergistic effects with immunosuppressants for successful pancreatic islet xenotransplantation, prolong pharmacokinetics, and retard diabetic nephropathy. CONCLUSION We suggest that CPPs can be a new generation of drug delivery systems for effective treatment and management of diabetes and diabetes-associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallikarjuna Korivi
- Exercise and Metabolism Research Center, College of Physical Education and Health Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yue-Wern Huang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO 65409-1120, United States
| | - Betty R Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
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11
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Antimicrobial Peptides, a Pool for Novel Cell Penetrating Peptides Development and Vice Versa. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10161-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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12
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Hawryłkiewicz A, Ptaszyńska N. Gemcitabine Peptide-Based Conjugates and Their Application in Targeted Tumor Therapy. Molecules 2021; 26:E364. [PMID: 33445797 PMCID: PMC7828243 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26020364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A major obstacle in tumor treatment is associated with the poor penetration of a therapeutic agent into the tumor tissue and with their adverse influence on healthy cells, which limits the dose of drug that can be safely administered to cancer patients. Gemcitabine is an anticancer drug used to treat a wide range of solid tumors and is a first-line treatment for pancreatic cancer. The effect of gemcitabine is significantly weakened by its rapid plasma degradation. In addition, the systemic toxicity and drug resistance significantly reduce its chemotherapeutic efficacy. Up to now, many approaches have been made to improve the therapeutic index of gemcitabine. One of the recently developed approaches to improve conventional chemotherapy is based on the direct targeting of chemotherapeutics to cancer cells using the drug-peptide conjugates. In this work, we summarize recently published gemcitabine peptide-based conjugates and their efficacy in anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Natalia Ptaszyńska
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland;
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13
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Chaianantakul N, Sungkapong T, Supatip J, Kingsang P, Kamlaithong S, Suwanakitti N. Antimalarial effect of cell penetrating peptides derived from the junctional region of Plasmodium falciparum dihydrofolate reductase-thymidylate synthase. Peptides 2020; 131:170372. [PMID: 32673701 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2020.170372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Dihydrofolate reductase-thymidylate synthase of Plasmodium falciparum (PfDHFR-TS) is an important target of antifolate antimalarial drugs. However, drug resistant parasites are widespread in malaria endemic regions. The unique bifunctional property of PfDHFR-TS could be exploited for the design of allosteric inhibitors that interfere with the active dimer conformation. In this study, peptides were derived from the junctional region (JR) of PfDHFR-TS amino acid sequence in the αj1 helix (JR-helix) and the DHFR domain that is necessary for interaction with αj1 helix (JR21). Five peptides were synthesized and tested for inhibition of PfDHFR-TS enzyme by Bacterial inhibition assay (BIA) based on the growth of an E. coli DHFR and TS knockout complemented with a recombinant plasmid expressing PfDHFR-TS enzyme. Significant inhibition was observed for JR21 and JR21 conjugated to cell-penetrating octa-arginine peptide (rR8-JR21) with 50 % inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 3.87 and 1.53 μM, respectively. The JR-helix and rR8-JR-helix peptides were inactive. JR21 and rR8-JR21 peptides showed similar growth inhibitory effects on P. falciparum NF54 parasites cultured in vitro. Treatment with rR8-JR21 delayed parasite development, in which an accumulation of ring stage parasites was observed after 12 h of culture. Minimal red blood cell (RBC) hemolysis was observed at the highest dose of peptide tested. The most potent peptide rR8-JR21 not only compromised the development of the P. falciparum, but also inhibited the parasite growth and has low hemolytic effect on human RBCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natpasit Chaianantakul
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Tippawan Sungkapong
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Jaturayut Supatip
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Pitchayanin Kingsang
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Sarayut Kamlaithong
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Nattida Suwanakitti
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), 113 Thailand Science Park, Khlong Nueng, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
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14
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Ferreira A, Lapa R, Vale N. Combination of Gemcitabine with Cell-Penetrating Peptides: A Pharmacokinetic Approach Using In Silico Tools. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9110693. [PMID: 31690028 PMCID: PMC6921036 DOI: 10.3390/biom9110693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gemcitabine is an anticancer drug used to treat a wide range of solid tumors and is a first line treatment for pancreatic cancer. Our group has previously developed novel conjugates of gemcitabine with cell-penetrating peptides (CPP), and here we report some preliminary data regarding the pharmacokinetics of gemcitabine, two gemcitabine-CPP conjugates and respective CPP gathered from GastroPlus™, and analyze these results considering our previous evaluation of gemcitabine release and conjugates’ bioactivity. Additionally, seeking to shed some light on the relation between the penetration ability of CPP and their physicochemical properties, chemical descriptors for the 20 natural amino acids were calculated, a new principal property scale (z-scale) was created and CPP prediction models were developed, establishing quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSAR). The z-scores of the peptides conjugated with gemcitabine are presented and analyzed with the aforementioned data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Ferreira
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Rui Lapa
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Nuno Vale
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho, 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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15
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Kardani K, Milani A, H Shabani S, Bolhassani A. Cell penetrating peptides: the potent multi-cargo intracellular carriers. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2019; 16:1227-1258. [PMID: 31583914 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2019.1676720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) known as protein translocation domains (PTD), membrane translocating sequences (MTS), or Trojan peptides (TP) are able to cross biological membranes without clear toxicity using different mechanisms, and facilitate the intracellular delivery of a variety of bioactive cargos. CPPs could overcome some limitations of drug delivery and combat resistant strains against a broad range of diseases. Despite delivery of different therapeutic molecules by CPPs, they lack cell specificity and have a short duration of action. These limitations led to design of combined cargo delivery systems and subsequently improvement of their clinical applications. Areas covered: This review covers all our studies and other researchers in different aspects of CPPs such as classification, uptake mechanisms, and biomedical applications. Expert opinion: Due to low cytotoxicity of CPPs as compared to other carriers and final degradation to amino acids, they are suitable for preclinical and clinical studies. Generally, the efficiency of CPPs was suitable to penetrate the cell membrane and deliver different cargos to specific intracellular sites. However, no CPP-based therapeutic approach has approved by FDA, yet; because there are some disadvantages for CPPs including short half-life in blood, and nonspecific CPP-mediated delivery to normal tissue. Thus, some methods were used to develop the functions of CPPs in vitro and in vivo including the augmentation of cell specificity by activatable CPPs, specific transport into cell organelles by insertion of corresponding localization sequences, incorporation of CPPs into multifunctional dendrimeric or liposomal nanocarriers to improve selectivity and efficiency especially in tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimia Kardani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran , Iran
| | - Alireza Milani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran , Iran
| | - Samaneh H Shabani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran , Iran
| | - Azam Bolhassani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran , Iran
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16
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Fan X, Xu W, Han J, Jiang X, Wink M, Wu G. Antimicrobial peptide hybrid fluorescent protein based sensor array discriminate ten most frequent clinic isolates. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2019; 1863:1158-1166. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2019.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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17
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Yang J, Luo Y, Shibu MA, Toth I, Skwarczynski M. Cell-penetrating Peptides: Efficient Vectors for Vaccine Delivery. Curr Drug Deliv 2019; 16:430-443. [PMID: 30760185 PMCID: PMC6637094 DOI: 10.2174/1567201816666190123120915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Subunit vaccines are composed of pathogen fragments that, on their own, are generally poorly immunogenic. Therefore, the incorporation of an immunostimulating agent, e.g. adjuvant, into vaccine formulation is required. However, there are only a limited number of licenced adjuvants and their immunostimulating ability is often limited, while their toxicity can be substantial. To overcome these problems, a variety of vaccine delivery systems have been proposed. Most of them are designed to improve the stability of antigen in vivo and its delivery into immune cells. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are especially attractive component of antigen delivery systems as they have been widely used to enhance drug transport into the cells. Fusing or co-delivery of antigen with CPPs can enhance antigen uptake, processing and presentation by antigen presenting cells (APCs), which are the fundamental steps in initiating an immune response. This review describes the different mechanisms of CPP intercellular uptake and various CPP-based vaccine delivery strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Istvan Toth
- Address correspondence to these authors at the School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; Tel: (617)33469892; E-mail: ;
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- Address correspondence to these authors at the School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; Tel: (617)33469892; E-mail: ;
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18
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Avci FG, Akbulut BS, Ozkirimli E. Membrane Active Peptides and Their Biophysical Characterization. Biomolecules 2018; 8:biom8030077. [PMID: 30135402 PMCID: PMC6164437 DOI: 10.3390/biom8030077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last 20 years, an increasing number of studies have been reported on membrane active peptides. These peptides exert their biological activity by interacting with the cell membrane, either to disrupt it and lead to cell lysis or to translocate through it to deliver cargos into the cell and reach their target. Membrane active peptides are attractive alternatives to currently used pharmaceuticals and the number of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and peptides designed for drug and gene delivery in the drug pipeline is increasing. Here, we focus on two most prominent classes of membrane active peptides; AMPs and cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs). Antimicrobial peptides are a group of membrane active peptides that disrupt the membrane integrity or inhibit the cellular functions of bacteria, virus, and fungi. Cell penetrating peptides are another group of membrane active peptides that mainly function as cargo-carriers even though they may also show antimicrobial activity. Biophysical techniques shed light on peptide–membrane interactions at higher resolution due to the advances in optics, image processing, and computational resources. Structural investigation of membrane active peptides in the presence of the membrane provides important clues on the effect of the membrane environment on peptide conformations. Live imaging techniques allow examination of peptide action at a single cell or single molecule level. In addition to these experimental biophysical techniques, molecular dynamics simulations provide clues on the peptide–lipid interactions and dynamics of the cell entry process at atomic detail. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in experimental and computational investigation of membrane active peptides with particular emphasis on two amphipathic membrane active peptides, the AMP melittin and the CPP pVEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Gizem Avci
- Bioengineering Department, Marmara University, Kadikoy, 34722 Istanbul, Turkey.
| | | | - Elif Ozkirimli
- Chemical Engineering Department, Bogazici University, Bebek, 34342 Istanbul, Turkey.
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19
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Gemcitabine anti-proliferative activity significantly enhanced upon conjugation with cell-penetrating peptides. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2017; 27:2898-2901. [PMID: 28495087 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2017.04.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Gemcitabine proven efficiency against a wide range of solid tumors and undergoes deamination to its inactive uridine metabolite, which underlies its low bioavailability, and tumour resistance was also associated with nucleoside transporter alterations. Hence, we have conjugated gemcitabine to cell-penetrating peptides (CPP), in an effort to both mask its aniline moiety and facilitate its delivery into cancer cells. Two CPP-drug conjugates have been synthesized and studied regarding both the time-dependent kinetics of gemcitabine release and their anti-proliferative activity on three different human cancer cell lines. Results obtained reveal a dramatic increase in the anti-proliferative activity of gemcitabine in vitro, upon conjugation with the CPPs. As such, CPP-gemcitabine conjugates emerge as promising leads for cancer therapy.
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20
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Na H, Li X, Zou C, Wang C, Wang C, Liu K. Triterpene sapogenin–polyarginine conjugates exhibit promising antibacterial activity against Gram-positive strains. Bioorg Med Chem 2016; 24:2999-3005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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21
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Cell penetrating peptides as an innovative approach for drug delivery; then, present and the future. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL INVESTIGATION 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40005-016-0253-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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22
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GUO ZHENGRONG, PENG HUANYAN, KANG JIWEN, SUN DIANXING. Cell-penetrating peptides: Possible transduction mechanisms and therapeutic applications. Biomed Rep 2016; 4:528-534. [PMID: 27123243 PMCID: PMC4840506 DOI: 10.3892/br.2016.639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), also known as protein transduction domains, are a class of diverse peptides with 5-30 amino acids. CPPs are divided into cationic, amphipathic and hydrophobic CPPs. They are able to carry small molecules, plasmid DNA, small interfering RNA, proteins, viruses, imaging agents and other various nanoparticles across the cellular membrane, resulting in internalization of the intact cargos. However, the mechanisms of CPP internalization remain to be elucidated. Recently, CPPs have received considerable attention due to their high transduction efficiency and low cytotoxicity. These peptides have a significant potential for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, such as delivery of fluorescent or radioactive compounds for imaging, delivery of peptides and proteins for therapeutic application, and delivery of molecules into induced pluripotent stem cells for directing differentiation. The present study reviews the classifications and transduction mechanisms of CPPs, as well as their potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- ZHENGRONG GUO
- The Liver Diseases Diagnosis and Treatment Center of PLA, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050082, P.R. China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Shijiazhuang City, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - HUANYAN PENG
- The Liver Diseases Diagnosis and Treatment Center of PLA, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050082, P.R. China
- Hebei Medical University Graduate School, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, P.R. China
| | - JIWEN KANG
- The Liver Diseases Diagnosis and Treatment Center of PLA, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050082, P.R. China
| | - DIANXING SUN
- The Liver Diseases Diagnosis and Treatment Center of PLA, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050082, P.R. China
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23
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Liu MW, Wang YH, Qian CY, Li H. Xuebijing exerts protective effects on lung permeability leakage and lung injury by upregulating Toll-interacting protein expression in rats with sepsis. Int J Mol Med 2014; 34:1492-504. [PMID: 25269519 PMCID: PMC4214342 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2014.1943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Xuebijing (XBJ) is a type of traditional Tibetan medicine, and previous pharmacological studies have shown that the ethanol extract is derived from Chuanxiong, Chishao, Danshen and Honghua. Chuanxiong, Chishao, Danshen and Honghua possesses potent anti-inflammatory activity, and has been used in the treatment of inflammatory infectious diseases. In the present study, we investigated the effects of XBJ on pulmonary permeability and lung injury in cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis in rats. A CLP sepsis model was established for the control and treatment groups, respectively. Approximately 2 h prior to surgery, an amount of 100 mg/kg XBJ injection was administered to the treatment group. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PT-PCR) and western blot analysis were used to examine the expression of Toll-interacting protein (Tollip), interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), nuclear factor-κB65 (NF-κB65) and TNF receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) in lung tissue. ELISA was applied to detect changes of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and von Willebrand factor (vWF) in serum. The number of neutrophils, albumin and total cells in the BAL fluid were measured. For histological analysis, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stains were evaluated. Lung permeability, the wet/dry weight ratio (W/D) and the lung pathology score were determined following the induction of ALI by CLP for 24 h. The results demonstrated that XBJ upregulated Tollip expression and blocked the activity of IRAK1, TLR4, NF-κβ65 and TRAF6. Additionally, the number of neutrophils and total cells were significantly decreased in the XBJ group compared to that in the control group. Lung permeability, the wet/dry weight ratio (W/D) and the lung pathology score were significantly decreased in the XBJ group. The histological results also demonstrated the attenuation effect of XBJ on CLP-induced lung inflammation. The results of the present study indicated that XBJ has a significantly reduced CLP-induced lung permeability by upregulating Tollip expression. The protective effects of XBJ suggest its therapeutic potential in CLP-induced acute lung injury treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Wei Liu
- Department of Emergency, The First Hospital Affiliated To Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650000, P.R. China
| | - Yun-Hui Wang
- Department of Emergency, The First Hospital Affiliated To Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650000, P.R. China
| | - Chuan-Yun Qian
- Department of Emergency, The First Hospital Affiliated To Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650000, P.R. China
| | - Hui Li
- Surgical Intensive Care Unit, The Second Hospital Affiliated To Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650000, P.R. China
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24
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Peptide-membrane interactions of arginine-tryptophan peptides probed using quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2014; 43:241-53. [PMID: 24743917 PMCID: PMC4053608 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-014-0958-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Revised: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Membrane-active peptides include peptides that can cross cellular membranes and deliver macromolecular cargo as well as peptides that inhibit bacterial growth. Some of these peptides can act as both transporters and antibacterial agents. It is desirable to combine the knowledge from these two different fields of membrane-active peptides into design of new peptides with tailored actions, as transporters of cargo or as antibacterial substances, targeting specific membranes. We have previously shown that the position of the amino acid tryptophan in the peptide sequence of three arginine-tryptophan peptides affects their uptake and intracellular localization in live mammalian cells, as well as their ability to inhibit bacterial growth. Here, we use quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring to assess the induced changes caused by binding of the three peptides to supported model membranes composed of POPC, POPC/POPG, POPC/POPG/cholesterol or POPC/lactosyl PE. Our results indicate that the tryptophan position in the peptide sequence affects the way these peptides interact with the different model membranes and that the presence of cholesterol in particular seems to affect the membrane interaction of the peptide with an even distribution of tryptophans in the peptide sequence. These results give mechanistic insight into the function of these peptides and may aid in the design of membrane-active peptides with specified cellular targets and actions.
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25
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Rodriguez Plaza JG, Morales-Nava R, Diener C, Schreiber G, Gonzalez ZD, Lara Ortiz MT, Ortega Blake I, Pantoja O, Volkmer R, Klipp E, Herrmann A, Del Rio G. Cell penetrating peptides and cationic antibacterial peptides: two sides of the same coin. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:14448-57. [PMID: 24706763 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.515023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell penetrating peptides (CPP) and cationic antibacterial peptides (CAP) have similar physicochemical properties and yet it is not understood how such similar peptides display different activities. To address this question, we used Iztli peptide 1 (IP-1) because it has both CPP and CAP activities. Combining experimental and computational modeling of the internalization of IP-1, we show it is not internalized by receptor-mediated endocytosis, yet it permeates into many different cell types, including fungi and human cells. We also show that IP-1 makes pores in the presence of high electrical potential at the membrane, such as those found in bacteria and mitochondria. These results provide the basis to understand the functional redundancy of CPPs and CAPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan G Rodriguez Plaza
- From the Biochemistry and Structural Biology Department, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior S/N Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México D.F., México
| | - Rosmarbel Morales-Nava
- Materials science and biophysics department, Instituto de Ciencias Fisicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad S/N, Col. Chamilpa, 62210 Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Christian Diener
- From the Biochemistry and Structural Biology Department, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior S/N Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México D.F., México
| | - Gabriele Schreiber
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, A.P. 510-3, Colonia Miraval, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México 62250
| | - Zyanya D Gonzalez
- From the Biochemistry and Structural Biology Department, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior S/N Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México D.F., México
| | - Maria Teresa Lara Ortiz
- From the Biochemistry and Structural Biology Department, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior S/N Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México D.F., México
| | - Ivan Ortega Blake
- Materials science and biophysics department, Instituto de Ciencias Fisicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad S/N, Col. Chamilpa, 62210 Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Omar Pantoja
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, A.P. 510-3, Colonia Miraval, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México 62250
| | - Rudolf Volkmer
- Institut für Medizinische Immunologie, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hessische Strasse 3-4, 10117 Berlin and Leibniz-Institut für Molekulare Pharmakologie, Robert-Roessle Strasse 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany, and
| | - Edda Klipp
- Theoretische und Molekulare Biophysik, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Invalidenstrasse 42, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Herrmann
- Theoretische und Molekulare Biophysik, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Invalidenstrasse 42, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriel Del Rio
- From the Biochemistry and Structural Biology Department, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior S/N Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México D.F., México,
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26
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Copolovici DM, Langel K, Eriste E, Langel Ü. Cell-penetrating peptides: design, synthesis, and applications. ACS NANO 2014; 8:1972-94. [PMID: 24559246 DOI: 10.1021/nn4057269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 675] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The intrinsic property of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) to deliver therapeutic molecules (nucleic acids, drugs, imaging agents) to cells and tissues in a nontoxic manner has indicated that they may be potential components of future drugs and disease diagnostic agents. These versatile peptides are simple to synthesize, functionalize, and characterize yet are able to deliver covalently or noncovalently conjugated bioactive cargos (from small chemical drugs to large plasmid DNA) inside cells, primarily via endocytosis, in order to obtain high levels of gene expression, gene silencing, or tumor targeting. Typically, CPPs are often passive and nonselective yet must be functionalized or chemically modified to create effective delivery vectors that succeed in targeting specific cells or tissues. Furthermore, the design of clinically effective systemic delivery systems requires the same amount of attention to detail in both design of the delivered cargo and the cell-penetrating peptide used to deliver it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Maria Copolovici
- Laboratory of Molecular Biotechnology, Institute of Technology, Tartu University , 504 11 Tartu, Estonia
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27
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Harreither E, Rydberg HA, Amand HL, Jadhav V, Fliedl L, Benda C, Esteban MA, Pei D, Borth N, Grillari-Voglauer R, Hommerding O, Edenhofer F, Nordén B, Grillari J. Characterization of a novel cell penetrating peptide derived from human Oct4. CELL REGENERATION 2014; 3:2. [PMID: 25408881 PMCID: PMC4230757 DOI: 10.1186/2045-9769-3-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Oct4 is a transcription factor that plays a major role for the preservation of the pluripotent state in embryonic stem cells as well as for efficient reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) or other progenitors. Protein-based reprogramming methods mainly rely on the addition of a fused cell penetrating peptide. This study describes that Oct4 inherently carries a protein transduction domain, which can translocate into human and mouse cells. Results A 16 amino acid peptide representing the third helix of the human Oct4 homeodomain, referred to as Oct4 protein transduction domain (Oct4-PTD), can internalize in mammalian cells upon conjugation to a fluorescence moiety thereby acting as a cell penetrating peptide (CPP). The cellular distribution of Oct4-PTD shows diffuse cytosolic and nuclear staining, whereas penetratin is strictly localized to a punctuate pattern in the cytoplasm. By using a Cre/loxP-based reporter system, we show that this peptide also drives translocation of a functionally active Oct4-PTD-Cre-fusion protein. We further provide evidence for translocation of full length Oct4 into human and mouse cell lines without the addition of any kind of cationic fusion tag. Finally, physico-chemical properties of the novel CPP are characterized, showing that in contrast to penetratin a helical structure of Oct4-PTD is only observed if the FITC label is present on the N-terminus of the peptide. Conclusions Oct4 is a key transcription factor in stem cell research and cellular reprogramming. Since it has been shown that recombinant Oct4 fused to a cationic fusion tag can drive generation of iPSCs, our finding might contribute to further development of protein-based methods to generate iPSCs. Moreover, our data support the idea that transcription factors might be part of an alternative paracrine signalling pathway, where the proteins are transferred to neighbouring cells thereby actively changing the behaviour of the recipient cell. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi: 10.1186/2045-9769-3-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Harreither
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Muthgasse 18, 1190 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hanna A Rydberg
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering/Physical Chemistry, Chalmers University of Technology, Kemivägen 10, S-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Helene L Amand
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering/Physical Chemistry, Chalmers University of Technology, Kemivägen 10, S-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Vaibhav Jadhav
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Muthgasse 18, 1190 Vienna, Austria
| | - Lukas Fliedl
- ACIB GmbH, Austrian Center of Industrial Biotechnology, Petersgasse 14, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Christina Benda
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, 510530 Guangzhou, China
| | - Miguel A Esteban
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, 510530 Guangzhou, China
| | - Duanqing Pei
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, 510530 Guangzhou, China
| | - Nicole Borth
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Muthgasse 18, 1190 Vienna, Austria ; ACIB GmbH, Austrian Center of Industrial Biotechnology, Petersgasse 14, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Regina Grillari-Voglauer
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Muthgasse 18, 1190 Vienna, Austria ; Evercyte GmbH, Muthgasse 18, 1190 Vienna, Austria ; ACIB GmbH, Austrian Center of Industrial Biotechnology, Petersgasse 14, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Oliver Hommerding
- Stem Cell Engineering Group, Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, University of Bonn - Life & Brain Center and Hertie Foundation, Sigmund-Freud Strasse 25, D-53105 Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank Edenhofer
- Stem Cell Engineering Group, Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, University of Bonn - Life & Brain Center and Hertie Foundation, Sigmund-Freud Strasse 25, D-53105 Bonn, Germany ; Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Group, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, D-97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Bengt Nordén
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering/Physical Chemistry, Chalmers University of Technology, Kemivägen 10, S-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johannes Grillari
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Muthgasse 18, 1190 Vienna, Austria ; Evercyte GmbH, Muthgasse 18, 1190 Vienna, Austria ; Christian Doppler Laboratory on Biotechnology of Skin Aging, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Muthgasse 18, 1190 Vienna, Austria
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Wang F, Wang Y, Zhang X, Zhang W, Guo S, Jin F. Recent progress of cell-penetrating peptides as new carriers for intracellular cargo delivery. J Control Release 2013; 174:126-36. [PMID: 24291335 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2013.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 287] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2013] [Revised: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 11/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The plasma membrane as a selectively permeable barrier of living cells is essential to cell survival and function. In many cases, however, the efficient passage of exogenous bioactive molecules through the plasma membrane remains a major hurdle for intracellular delivery of cargoes. During the last two decades, the potential of peptides for drug delivery into cells has been highlighted by the discovery of numerous cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs). CPPs serving as carriers can successfully intracellular transport cargoes such as siRNA, nucleic acids, proteins, small molecule therapeutic agents, quantum dots and MRI contrast agents. This review mainly introduces recent advances of CPPs as new carriers for the development of cellular imaging, nuclear localization, pH-sensitive and thermally targeted delivery systems. In particular, we highlight the exploiting of the synergistic effects of targeting ligands and CPPs. What's more, the classification and cellular uptake mechanisms of CPPs are briefly discussed as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feihu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 1111 Zhongshan Beiyi Road, Shanghai 200437, PR China
| | - Yun Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Wenjun Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Shengrong Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, PR China.
| | - Fang Jin
- Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 1111 Zhongshan Beiyi Road, Shanghai 200437, PR China.
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Shin MC, Zhang J, Min KA, Lee K, Byun Y, David AE, He H, Yang VC. Cell-penetrating peptides: achievements and challenges in application for cancer treatment. J Biomed Mater Res A 2013; 102:575-87. [PMID: 23852939 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.34859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2013] [Revised: 06/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
One of the major hurdles to cure cancer lies in the low potency of currently available drugs, which could eventually be solved by using more potent therapeutic macromolecules, such as proteins or genes. However, although these macromolecules possess greater potency inside the cancer cells, the barely permeable cell membrane remains a formidable barrier to exert their efficacy. A widely used strategy is to use cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) to improve their intracellular uptake. Since the discovery of the first CPP, numerous CPPs have been derived from natural or synthesized products. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that those CPPs are highly efficient in transducing cargoes into almost all cell types. Therefore, to date, CPPs have been widely used for intracellular delivery of various cargoes, including peptides, proteins, genes, and even nanoparticles. In addition, recently, based on the successes of CPPs in cellular studies, their applications in vivo have been actively pursued. This review will focus on the advanced applications of CPP-based in vivo delivery of therapeutics (e.g., small molecule drugs, proteins, and genes). In addition, we will highlight certain updated applications of CPPs for intracellular delivery of nanoparticulate drug carriers, as well as several "smart" strategies for tumor targeted delivery of CPP-cargoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meong Cheol Shin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Michigan, 428 Church Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109-1065
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Fan X, Schäfer H, Reichling J, Wink M. Bactericidal properties of the antimicrobial peptide Ib-AMP4 fromImpatiens balsaminaproduced as a recombinant fusion-protein inEscherichia coli. Biotechnol J 2013; 8:1213-20. [DOI: 10.1002/biot.201300121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Revised: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 05/24/2013] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Eggimann GA, Buschor S, Darbre T, Reymond JL. Convergent synthesis and cellular uptake of multivalent cell penetrating peptides derived from Tat, Antp, pVEC, TP10 and SAP. Org Biomol Chem 2013; 11:6717-33. [DOI: 10.1039/c3ob41023d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Rydberg HA, Carlsson N, Nordén B. Membrane interaction and secondary structure of de novo designed arginine-and tryptophan peptides with dual function. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 427:261-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2012] [Accepted: 09/06/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Lamsa A, Liu WT, Dorrestein PC, Pogliano K. The Bacillus subtilis cannibalism toxin SDP collapses the proton motive force and induces autolysis. Mol Microbiol 2012; 84:486-500. [PMID: 22469514 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2958.2012.08038.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Bacillus subtilis SDP is a peptide toxin that kills cells outside the biofilm to support continued growth. We show that purified SDP acts like endogenously produced SDP; it delays sporulation, and the SdpI immunity protein confers SDP resistance. SDP kills a variety of Gram-positive bacteria in the phylum Firmicutes, as well as Escherichia coli with a compromised outer membrane, suggesting it participates in defence of the B. subtilis biofilm against Gram-positive bacteria as well as cannibalism. Fluorescence microscopy reveals that the effect of SDP on cells differs from that of nisin, nigericin, valinomycin and vancomycin-KCl, but resembles that of CCCP, DNP and azide. Indeed, SDP rapidly collapses the PMF as measured by fluorometry and flow cytometry, which triggers the slower process of autolysis. This secondary consequence of SDP treatment is not required for cell death since the autolysin-defective lytC, lytD, lytE, lytF strain fails to be lysed but is nevertheless killed by SDP. Collapsing the PMF is an ideal mechanism for a toxin involved in cannibalism and biofilm defence, since this would incapacitate neighbouring cells by inhibiting motility and secretion of proteins and toxins. It would also induce autolysis in many Gram-positive species, thereby releasing nutrients that promote biofilm growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Lamsa
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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