1
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Egberink RO, van Asbeck AH, Boswinkel M, Muradjan G, Dieker J, Brock R. Deciphering Structural Determinants Distinguishing Active from Inactive Cell-Penetrating Peptides for Cytosolic mRNA Delivery. Bioconjug Chem 2023; 34:1822-1834. [PMID: 37733627 PMCID: PMC10587869 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.3c00346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
The formation of noncovalent complexes by mixing of positively charged polymers with negatively charged oligonucleotides (ONs) is a widely explored concept in nanomedicine to achieve cellular delivery of ONs. Uptake of ON complexes occurs through endocytosis, which then requires release of ON from endosomes. As one type of polymer, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are being used which are peptides of about 8-30 amino acids in length. However, only a few CPPs yield effective cytosolic ON delivery and activity. Several strategies have been devised to increase cellular uptake and enhance endosomal release, among which an increase of osmotic pressure through the so-called proton sponge effect, disruption of membrane integrity through membrane activity, and disulfide-mediated polymerization. Here, we address the relevance of these concepts for mRNA delivery by incorporating structural features into the human lactoferrin-derived CPP, which shows uptake but not delivery. The incorporation of histidines was explored to address osmotic pressure and structural motifs of the delivery-active CPP PepFect14 (PF14) to address membrane disturbance, and finally, the impact of polymerization was explored. Whereas oligomerization increased the stability of polyplexes against heparin-induced decomplexation, neither this approach nor the incorporation of histidine residues to promote a proton-sponge effect yielded activity. Also, the replacement of arginine residues with lysine or ornithine residues, as in PF14, was without effect, even though all polyplexes showed cellular uptake. Ultimately, sufficient activity could only be achieved by transferring amphipathic sequence motifs from PF14 into the hLF context with some benefit of oligomerization demonstrating overarching principles of delivery for CPPs, lipid nanoparticles, and other types of delivery polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rik Oude Egberink
- Department
of Medical BioSciences, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander H. van Asbeck
- Department
of Medical BioSciences, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Milou Boswinkel
- Department
of Medical BioSciences, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Grigor Muradjan
- Department
of Medical BioSciences, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jürgen Dieker
- Department
of Medical BioSciences, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roland Brock
- Department
of Medical BioSciences, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department
of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 329, Bahrain
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2
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Parrasia S, Szabò I, Zoratti M, Biasutto L. Peptides as Pharmacological Carriers to the Brain: Promises, Shortcomings and Challenges. Mol Pharm 2022; 19:3700-3729. [PMID: 36174227 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) diseases are among the most difficult to treat, mainly because the vast majority of the drugs fail to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) or to reach the brain at concentrations adequate to exert a pharmacological activity. The obstacle posed by the BBB has led to the in-depth study of strategies allowing the brain delivery of CNS-active drugs. Among the most promising strategies is the use of peptides addressed to the BBB. Peptides are versatile molecules that can be used to decorate nanoparticles or can be conjugated to drugs, with either a stable link or as pro-drugs. They have been used to deliver to the brain both small molecules and proteins, with applications in diverse therapeutic areas such as brain cancers, neurodegenerative diseases and imaging. Peptides can be generally classified as receptor-targeted, recognizing membrane proteins expressed by the BBB microvessels (e.g., Angiopep2, CDX, and iRGD), "cell-penetrating peptides" (CPPs; e.g. TAT47-57, SynB1/3, and Penetratin), undergoing transcytosis through unspecific mechanisms, or those exploiting a mixed approach. The advantages of peptides have been extensively pointed out, but so far few studies have focused on the potential negative aspects. Indeed, despite having a generally good safety profile, some peptide conjugates may display toxicological characteristics distinct from those of the peptide itself, causing for instance antigenicity, cardiovascular alterations or hemolysis. Other shortcomings are the often brief lifetime in vivo, caused by the presence of peptidases, the vulnerability to endosomal/lysosomal degradation, and the frequently still insufficient attainable increase of brain drug levels, which remain below the therapeutically useful concentrations. The aim of this review is to analyze not only the successful and promising aspects of the use of peptides in brain targeting but also the problems posed by this strategy for drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Parrasia
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Ildikò Szabò
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Mario Zoratti
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Lucia Biasutto
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy
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3
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Juretić D. Designed Multifunctional Peptides for Intracellular Targets. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11091196. [PMID: 36139975 PMCID: PMC9495127 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11091196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Nature’s way for bioactive peptides is to provide them with several related functions and the ability to cooperate in performing their job. Natural cell-penetrating peptides (CPP), such as penetratins, inspired the design of multifunctional constructs with CPP ability. This review focuses on known and novel peptides that can easily reach intracellular targets with little or no toxicity to mammalian cells. All peptide candidates were evaluated and ranked according to the predictions of low toxicity to mammalian cells and broad-spectrum activity. The final set of the 20 best peptide candidates contains the peptides optimized for cell-penetrating, antimicrobial, anticancer, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activity. Their predicted features are intrinsic disorder and the ability to acquire an amphipathic structure upon contact with membranes or nucleic acids. In conclusion, the review argues for exploring wide-spectrum multifunctionality for novel nontoxic hybrids with cell-penetrating peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davor Juretić
- Mediterranean Institute for Life Sciences, 21000 Split, Croatia;
- Faculty of Science, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
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4
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Hao M, Zhang L, Chen P. Membrane Internalization Mechanisms and Design Strategies of Arginine-Rich Cell-Penetrating Peptides. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169038. [PMID: 36012300 PMCID: PMC9409441 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been discovered to deliver chemical drugs, nucleic acids, and macromolecules to permeate cell membranes, creating a novel route for exogenous substances to enter cells. Up until now, various sequence structures and fundamental action mechanisms of CPPs have been established. Among them, arginine-rich peptides with unique cell penetration properties have attracted substantial scientific attention. Due to the positively charged essential amino acids of the arginine-rich peptides, they can interact with negatively charged drug molecules and cell membranes through non-covalent interaction, including electrostatic interactions. Significantly, the sequence design and the penetrating mechanisms are critical. In this brief synopsis, we summarize the transmembrane processes and mechanisms of arginine-rich peptides; and outline the relationship between the function of arginine-rich peptides and the number of arginine residues, arginine optical isomers, primary sequence, secondary and ternary structures, etc. Taking advantage of the penetration ability, biomedical applications of arginine-rich peptides have been refreshed, including drug/RNA delivery systems, biosensors, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration. Understanding the membrane internalization mechanisms and design strategies of CPPs will expand their potential applications in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minglu Hao
- Advanced Materials Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250014, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L3G1, Canada
- Correspondence: (L.Z.); (P.C.)
| | - Pu Chen
- Advanced Materials Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250014, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L3G1, Canada
- Correspondence: (L.Z.); (P.C.)
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5
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Fluid-Phase Endocytosis and Lysosomal Degradation of Bovine Lactoferrin in Lung Cells. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14040855. [PMID: 35456688 PMCID: PMC9032238 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14040855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The iron-binding protein lactoferrin and the cell-penetrating peptides derived from its sequence utilise endocytosis to enter different cell types. The full-length protein has been extensively investigated as a potential therapeutic against a range of pathogenic bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. As a respiratory antiviral agent, several activity mechanisms have been demonstrated for lactoferrin, at the extracellular and plasma membrane levels, but as a protein that enters cells it may also have intracellular antiviral activity. Characterisation of lactoferrin’s binding, endocytic traffic to lysosomes, or recycling endosomes for exocytosis is lacking, especially in lung cell models. Here, we use confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, and degradation assays to evaluate binding, internalisation, endocytic trafficking, and the intracellular fate of bovine lactoferrin in human lung A549 cells. In comparative studies with endocytic probes transferrin and dextran, we show that lactoferrin binds to negative charges on the cell surface and actively enters cells via fluid-phase endocytosis, in a receptor-independent manner. Once inside the cell, we show that it is trafficked to lysosomes where it undergoes degradation within two hours. These findings provide opportunities for investigating both lactoferrin and derived cell-penetrating peptides activities of targeting intracellular pathogens.
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6
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Carvalho IC, Mansur AAP, Carvalho SM, Mansur HS. Nanotheranostics through Mitochondria-targeted Delivery with Fluorescent Peptidomimetic Nanohybrids for Apoptosis Induction of Brain Cancer Cells. Nanotheranostics 2021; 5:213-239. [PMID: 33614399 PMCID: PMC7893535 DOI: 10.7150/ntno.54491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Overview: Malignant brain tumors remain one of the greatest challenges faced by health professionals and scientists among the utmost lethal forms of cancer. Nanotheranostics can play a pivotal role in developing revolutionary nanoarchitectures with multifunctional and multimodal capabilities to fight cancer. Mitochondria are vital organelles to eukaryotic cells, which have been recognized as a significant target in cancer therapy where, by damaging the mitochondria, it will cause irreparable cell death or apoptosis. Methods: We designed and produced novel hybrid nanostructures comprising a fluorescent semiconductor core (AgInS2, AIS) and cysteine-modified carboxymethylcellulose (termed thiomer, CMC_Cys) conjugated with mitochondria-targeting peptides (KLA) forming a macromolecular shell for combining bioimaging and for inducing brain cancer cell (U-87 MG) death. Results: The optical and physicochemical properties of the nanoconjugates demonstrated suitability as photoluminescent nanostructures for cell bioimaging and intracellular tracking. Additionally, the results proved a remarkable killing activity towards glioblastoma cells of cysteine-bearing CMC conjugates coupled with KLA peptides through the half-maximal effective concentration values, approximately 70-fold higher compared to the conjugate analogs without Cys residues. Moreover, these thiomer-based pro-apoptotic drug nanoconjugates displayed higher lethality against U-87 MG cancer cells than doxorubicin, a model drug in chemotherapy, although extremely toxic. Remarkably, these peptidomimetic nanohybrids demonstrated a relative "protective effect" regarding healthy cells while maintaining high killing activity towards malignant brain cells. Conclusion: These findings pave the way for developing hybrid nanoarchitectures applied as targeted multifunctional platforms for simultaneous imaging and therapy against cancer while minimizing the high systemic toxicity and side-effects of conventional drugs in anticancer chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Herman S. Mansur
- Center of Nanoscience, Nanotechnology, and Innovation - CeNano2I, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627 - Belo Horizonte/MG, Brazil
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7
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Wei Y, Zhang M, Jiao P, Zhang X, Yang G, Xu X. Intracellular Paclitaxel Delivery Facilitated by a Dual-Functional CPP with a Hydrophobic Hairpin Tail. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:4853-4860. [PMID: 33474938 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c20180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In our pervious study, a dual-functional peptide R7 was developed to form a complex with paclitaxel (PTX) for enhancement of PTX translocation. However, because of the unstable noncovalent bond between R7 and PTX, PTX redistributed after the introduction of heparin, leading to R7-PTX complex dissociation, further causing less PTX penetration than expected. Thus, a novel positive CPP carrier of P9 was developed to improve CPP-PTX affinity via a double-proline (Pro, P) hairpin tail and enhance PTX translocation through the reduction of translocation energy barrier, confirmed by the MM-PBSA analysis and umbrella sampling simulation. Cellular uptake study reveals that P9 can quickly translocate into the HeLa cells within 1 min and exhibits no noticeable cytotoxicity. Compared to R7, P9 is able to help PTX translocation, leading to a remarkable increase in the intracellular concentration of PTX, eventually resulting in a significant loss in tumor cell viability. In vivo experiments demonstrate that a vein injection of P9-PTX complex dramatically inhibits tumor growth. Our study provides a novel perspective for designing CPP-facilitated drug carrier to enhance antitumor efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuping Wei
- School of Life Science and Technology, Nanyang Normal University, Nanyang, Henan Province 473061, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P.R. China
| | - Man Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Nanyang First People's Hospital, Henan Province, 473002, P.R. China
| | - Pengfei Jiao
- School of Life Science and Technology, Nanyang Normal University, Nanyang, Henan Province 473061, P.R. China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Nanyang Normal University, Nanyang, Henan Province 473061, P.R. China
| | - Ganggang Yang
- Biochemical Engineering Research Centre, Anhui University of Technology, Ma'anshan, Anhui Province 243032, P.R. China
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, Ma'anshan, Anhui Province 243032, P.R. China
| | - Xia Xu
- Biochemical Engineering Research Centre, Anhui University of Technology, Ma'anshan, Anhui Province 243032, P.R. China
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, Ma'anshan, Anhui Province 243032, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P.R. China
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8
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Roderer D, Bröcker F, Sitsel O, Kaplonek P, Leidreiter F, Seeberger PH, Raunser S. Glycan-dependent cell adhesion mechanism of Tc toxins. Nat Commun 2020; 11:2694. [PMID: 32483155 PMCID: PMC7264150 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16536-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [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: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxin complex (Tc) toxins are virulence factors of pathogenic bacteria. Tcs are composed of three subunits: TcA, TcB and TcC. TcA facilitates receptor-toxin interaction and membrane permeation, TcB and TcC form a toxin-encapsulating cocoon. While the mechanisms of holotoxin assembly and pore formation have been described, little is known about receptor binding of TcAs. Here, we identify heparins/heparan sulfates and Lewis antigens as receptors for different TcAs from insect and human pathogens. Glycan array screening reveals that all tested TcAs bind negatively charged heparins. Cryo-EM structures of Morganella morganii TcdA4 and Xenorhabdus nematophila XptA1 reveal that heparins/heparan sulfates unexpectedly bind to different regions of the shell domain, including receptor-binding domains. In addition, Photorhabdus luminescens TcdA1 binds to Lewis antigens with micromolar affinity. Here, the glycan interacts with the receptor-binding domain D of the toxin. Our results suggest a glycan dependent association mechanism of Tc toxins on the host cell surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Roderer
- Department of Structural Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Felix Bröcker
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
- Vaxxilon Deutschland GmbH, 12489, Berlin, Germany
| | - Oleg Sitsel
- Department of Structural Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Paulina Kaplonek
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Franziska Leidreiter
- Department of Structural Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
- Department of Biomolecular Mechanisms, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter H Seeberger
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Stefan Raunser
- Department of Structural Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, 44227, Dortmund, Germany.
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9
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Gabas IM, Nielsen PE. Effective Cellular Delivery of Antisense Peptide Nucleic Acid by Conjugation to Guanidinylated Diaminobutanoic Acid-Based Peptide Dendrons. Biomacromolecules 2019; 21:472-483. [PMID: 31756087 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.9b01227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A series of amino- and guanidino-terminating 3- and 4-generation 2,4-diaminobutanoic acid (Dab) dendrons have been robustly synthesized on a solid phase and characterized as cellular delivery agents in antisense peptide nucleic acid (PNA) conjugates in the pLuc705 HeLa cell splice switching system. The dendron-PNA conjugates exhibited splice correction activity at one digit micromolar concentrations, and guanidino-terminating dendrons were significantly more effective than analogous amine terminating ones. Furthermore, introduction of lipophilic groups such as phenyl, alkyl, or fatty acids increased efficacy, but also increased cellular toxicity. Fluorescence microscopy analyses supported an endosomal uptake mechanism and furthermore predominantly showed colocalization with late endosomes and lysosomes. The robust solid phase synthesis should make such Dab-dendrons a useful platform for further in vitro as well as in vivo optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Maicas Gabas
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The Panum Institute , University of Copenhagen , Blegdamsvej 3 , 2200 Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Peter E Nielsen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The Panum Institute , University of Copenhagen , Blegdamsvej 3 , 2200 Copenhagen , Denmark
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10
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Abstract
Approximately 75% of all disease-relevant human proteins, including those involved in intracellular protein-protein interactions (PPIs), are undruggable with the current drug modalities (i.e., small molecules and biologics). Macrocyclic peptides provide a potential solution to these undruggable targets because their larger sizes (relative to conventional small molecules) endow them the capability of binding to flat PPI interfaces with antibody-like affinity and specificity. Powerful combinatorial library technologies have been developed to routinely identify cyclic peptides as potent, specific inhibitors against proteins including PPI targets. However, with the exception of a very small set of sequences, the vast majority of cyclic peptides are impermeable to the cell membrane, preventing their application against intracellular targets. This Review examines common structural features that render most cyclic peptides membrane impermeable, as well as the unique features that allow the minority of sequences to enter the cell interior by passive diffusion, endocytosis/endosomal escape, or other mechanisms. We also present the current state of knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of cell penetration, the various strategies for designing cell-permeable, biologically active cyclic peptides against intracellular targets, and the assay methods available to quantify their cell-permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick G. Dougherty
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Ashweta Sahni
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Dehua Pei
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
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11
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Barattin M, Mattarei A, Balasso A, Paradisi C, Cantù L, Del Favero E, Viitala T, Mastrotto F, Caliceti P, Salmaso S. pH-Controlled Liposomes for Enhanced Cell Penetration in Tumor Environment. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2018; 10:17646-17661. [PMID: 29737834 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b03469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
An innovative pH-switchable colloidal system that can be exploited for site-selective anticancer drug delivery has been generated by liposome decoration with a new novel synthetic non-peptidic oligo-arginine cell-penetration enhancer (CPE) and a quenching PEGylated counterpart that detaches from the vesicle surface under the acidic conditions of tumors. The CPE module ( Arg4- DAG) is formed by four arginine units conjugated to a first-generation (G1) 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)propionic acid (bis-MPA)/2,2-bis(aminomethyl)propionic acid (bis-AMPA) polyester dendron terminating with 1,2-distearoyl-3-azidopropane for liposome bilayer insertion. The zeta potential of the Arg4- DAG-decorated liposomes increased up to +32 mV as the Arg4- DAG/lipids molar ratio increased. The Arg4- DAG liposome shielding at pH 7.4 was provided by methoxy-PEG5 kDa-polymethacryloyl sulfadimethoxine (mPEG5 kDa-SDM8) with 7.1 apparent p Ka. Zeta potential, surface plasmon resonance and synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering analyses showed that at pH 7.4 mPEG5 kDa-SDM8 associates with polycationic Arg4- DAG-decorated liposomes yielding liposomes with neutral zeta potential. At pH 6.5, which mimics the tumor environment, mPEG5 kDa-SDM8 detaches from the liposome surface yielding Arg4- DAG exposure. Flow cytometry and confocal microscopy showed a 30-fold higher HeLa cancer cell association of the Arg4- DAG-decorated liposomes compared to non-decorated liposomes. At pH 7.4, the mPEG5 kDa-SDM8-coated liposomes undergo low cell association while remarkable cell association occurred at pH 6.5, which allowed for the controlled intracellular delivery of model macromolecules and small molecules loaded in the liposome under tumor conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Barattin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences , University of Padova , Via F. Marzolo 5 , Padova 35131 , Italy
| | - Andrea Mattarei
- Department of Chemical Sciences , University of Padova , Via F. Marzolo 1 , Padova 35131 , Italy
| | - Anna Balasso
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences , University of Padova , Via F. Marzolo 5 , Padova 35131 , Italy
| | - Cristina Paradisi
- Department of Chemical Sciences , University of Padova , Via F. Marzolo 1 , Padova 35131 , Italy
| | - Laura Cantù
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Traslational Medicine , University of Milano , LITA, Via F.lli Cervi, 93 , Segrate 20090 , Italy
| | - Elena Del Favero
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Traslational Medicine , University of Milano , LITA, Via F.lli Cervi, 93 , Segrate 20090 , Italy
| | - Tapani Viitala
- Centre for Drug Research and Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Helsinki , Viikinkaari 5 , Helsinki FI-00014 , Finland
| | - Francesca Mastrotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences , University of Padova , Via F. Marzolo 5 , Padova 35131 , Italy
| | - Paolo Caliceti
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences , University of Padova , Via F. Marzolo 5 , Padova 35131 , Italy
| | - Stefano Salmaso
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences , University of Padova , Via F. Marzolo 5 , Padova 35131 , Italy
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12
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Reyes-Cortes R, Acosta-Smith E, Mondragón-Flores R, Nazmi K, Bolscher JGM, Canizalez-Roman A, Leon-Sicairos N. Antibacterial and cell penetrating effects of LFcin17-30, LFampin265-284, and LF chimera on enteroaggregative Escherichia coli. Biochem Cell Biol 2016; 95:76-81. [PMID: 28165291 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2016-0088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (LF) is a protein with antimicrobial activity, which is conferred in part by 2 regions contained in its N-terminal lobe. These regions have been used to develop the following synthetic peptides: lactoferricin17-30, lactoferrampin265-284, and LF chimera (a fusion of lactoferricin17-30 and lactoferrampin265-284). We have reported that these LF peptides have antibacterial activity against several pathogenic bacteria; however, the exact mechanism of action has not been established. Here, we report the effects of LF peptides on the viability of enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) and the ability of these peptides to penetrate into the bacteria cytoplasm. The viability of EAEC treated with LF peptides was determined via enumeration of colony-forming units, and the binding and internalization of the LF peptides was followed via immunogold labeling and electron microscopy. Treatment of EAEC with 20 and 40 μmol/L LF peptides reduced bacterial growth compared with untreated bacteria. Initially the peptides associated with the plasma membrane, but after 5 to 30 min of incubation, the peptides were found in the cytoplasm. Remarkably, bacteria treated with LF chimera developed cytosolic electron-dense structures that contained the antimicrobial peptide. Our results suggest that the antibacterial mechanism of LF peptides on EAEC involves their interaction with and penetration into the bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Reyes-Cortes
- a CIASaP, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, Cedros y Sauces, Fracc. Fresnos C.P. 80246, Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Erika Acosta-Smith
- a CIASaP, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, Cedros y Sauces, Fracc. Fresnos C.P. 80246, Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Mondragón-Flores
- b Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Avenida IPN #2508, Del. G.A. Madero, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Kamran Nazmi
- c Department of Oral Biochemistry, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam, University of Amsterdam and VU University, 1081 LA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jan G M Bolscher
- c Department of Oral Biochemistry, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam, University of Amsterdam and VU University, 1081 LA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Adrian Canizalez-Roman
- a CIASaP, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, Cedros y Sauces, Fracc. Fresnos C.P. 80246, Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico.,d Departamento de Investigación, Hospital de la Mujer, Boulevard Miguel Tamayo Espinoza de los Monteros S/N, Col. Desarrollo Urbano Tres Ríos, Culiacán 80020, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Nidia Leon-Sicairos
- a CIASaP, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, Cedros y Sauces, Fracc. Fresnos C.P. 80246, Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico.,e Departamento de Investigación, Hospital Pediátrico de Sinaloa, Boulevard Constitución S/N, col. Jorge Almada, Culiacan 80200, Sinaloa, Mexico
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13
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Characterisation of neuroprotective efficacy of modified poly-arginine-9 (R9) peptides using a neuronal glutamic acid excitotoxicity model. Mol Cell Biochem 2016; 426:75-85. [PMID: 27844251 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-016-2882-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In a recent study, we highlighted the importance of cationic charge and arginine residues for the neuroprotective properties of poly-arginine and arginine-rich peptides. In this study, using cortical neuronal cultures and an in vitro glutamic acid excitotoxicity model, we examined the neuroprotective efficacy of different modifications to the poly-arginine-9 peptide (R9). We compared an unmodified R9 peptide with R9 peptides containing the following modifications: (i) C-terminal amidation (R9-NH2); (ii) N-terminal acetylation (Ac-R9); (iii) C-terminal amidation with N-terminal acetylation (Ac-R9-NH2); and (iv) C-terminal amidation with D-amino acids (R9D-NH2). The three C-terminal amidated peptides (R9-NH2, Ac-R9-NH2, and R9D-NH2) displayed neuroprotective effects greater than the unmodified R9 peptide, while the N-terminal acetylated peptide (Ac-R9) had reduced efficacy. Using the R9-NH2 peptide, neuroprotection could be induced with a 10 min peptide pre-treatment, 1-6 h before glutamic acid insult, or when added to neuronal cultures up to 45 min post-insult. In addition, all peptides were capable of reducing glutamic acid-mediated neuronal intracellular calcium influx, in a manner that reflected their neuroprotective efficacy. This study further highlights the neuroprotective properties of poly-arginine peptides and provides insight into peptide modifications that affect efficacy.
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14
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Pouniotis D, Tang CK, Apostolopoulos V, Pietersz G. Vaccine delivery by penetratin: mechanism of antigen presentation by dendritic cells. Immunol Res 2016; 64:887-900. [DOI: 10.1007/s12026-016-8799-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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15
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Liu BR, Huang YW, Aronstam RS, Lee HJ. Identification of a Short Cell-Penetrating Peptide from Bovine Lactoferricin for Intracellular Delivery of DNA in Human A549 Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150439. [PMID: 26942714 PMCID: PMC4778846 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been shown to deliver cargos, including protein, DNA, RNA, and nanomaterials, in fully active forms into live cells. Most of the CPP sequences in use today are based on non-native proteins that may be immunogenic. Here we demonstrate that the L5a CPP (RRWQW) from bovine lactoferricin (LFcin), stably and noncovalently complexed with plasmid DNA and prepared at an optimal nitrogen/phosphate ratio of 12, is able to efficiently enter into human lung cancer A549 cells. The L5a CPP delivered a plasmid containing the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) coding sequence that was subsequently expressed in cells, as revealed by real-time PCR and fluorescent microscopy at the mRNA and protein levels, respectively. Treatment with calcium chloride increased the level of gene expression, without affecting CPP-mediated transfection efficiency. Zeta-potential analysis revealed that positively electrostatic interactions of CPP/DNA complexes correlated with CPP-mediated transport. The L5a and L5a/DNA complexes were not cytotoxic. This biomimetic LFcin L5a represents one of the shortest effective CPPs and could be a promising lead peptide with less immunogenic for DNA delivery in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty R. Liu
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, 974, Taiwan
| | - Yue-Wern Huang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, Missouri, 65409–1120, United States of America
| | - Robert S. Aronstam
- College of Science and Technology, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, 17815–1301, United States of America
| | - Han-Jung Lee
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, 974, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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16
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Spontaneous membrane-translocating peptides: influence of peptide self-aggregation and cargo polarity. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16914. [PMID: 26567719 PMCID: PMC4645181 DOI: 10.1038/srep16914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptides that translocate spontaneously across cell membranes could transform the field of drug delivery by enabling the transport of otherwise membrane-impermeant molecules into cells. In this regard, a 9-aminoacid-long motif (representative sequence: PLIYLRLLR, hereafter Translocating Motif 9, TM9) that spontaneously translocates across membranes while carrying a polar dye was recently identified by high-throughput screening. Here we investigate its transport properties by a combination of in cuvette physico-chemical assays, rational mutagenesis, live-cell confocal imaging and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy measurements. We unveil TM9 ability to self-aggregate in a concentration-dependent manner and demonstrate that peptide self-aggregation is a necessary –yet not sufficient– step for effective membrane translocation. Furthermore we show that membrane crossing can occur with apolar payloads while it is completely inhibited by polar ones. These findings are discussed and compared to previous reports. The present results impose a careful rethinking of this class of sequences as direct-translocation vectors suitable for delivery purposes.
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17
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Cell-Penetrating Ability of Peptide Hormones: Key Role of Glycosaminoglycans Clustering. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:27391-400. [PMID: 26580613 PMCID: PMC4661883 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161126025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last two decades, the potential usage of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) for the intracellular delivery of various molecules has prompted the identification of novel peptidic identities. However, cytotoxic effects and unpredicted immunological responses have often limited the use of various CPP sequences in the clinic. To overcome these issues, the usage of endogenous peptides appears as an appropriate alternative approach. The hormone pituitary adenylate-cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP38) has been recently identified as a novel and very efficient CPP. This 38-residue polycationic peptide is a member of the secretin/glucagon/growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) superfamily, with which PACAP38 shares high structural and conformational homologies. In this study, we evaluated the cell-penetrating ability of cationic peptide hormones in the context of the expression of cell surface glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Our results indicated that among all peptides evaluated, PACAP38 was unique for its potent efficiency of cellular uptake. Interestingly, the abilities of the peptides to reach the intracellular space did not correlate with their binding affinities to sulfated GAGs, but rather to their capacity to clustered heparin in vitro. This study demonstrates that the uptake efficiency of a given cationic CPP does not necessarily correlate with its affinity to sulfated GAGs and that its ability to cluster GAGs should be considered for the identification of novel peptidic sequences with potent cellular penetrating properties.
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18
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Meloni BP, Brookes LM, Clark VW, Cross JL, Edwards AB, Anderton RS, Hopkins RM, Hoffmann K, Knuckey NW. Poly-arginine and arginine-rich peptides are neuroprotective in stroke models. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2015; 35:993-1004. [PMID: 25669902 PMCID: PMC4640246 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2015.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2014] [Revised: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Using cortical neuronal cultures and glutamic acid excitotoxicity and oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) stroke models, we demonstrated that poly-arginine and arginine-rich cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), are highly neuroprotective, with efficacy increasing with increasing arginine content, have the capacity to reduce glutamic acid-induced neuronal calcium influx and require heparan sulfate preotoglycan-mediated endocytosis to induce a neuroprotective effect. Furthermore, neuroprotection could be induced with immediate peptide treatment or treatment up to 2 to 4 hours before glutamic acid excitotoxicity or OGD, and with poly-arginine-9 (R9) when administered intravenously after stroke onset in a rat model. In contrast, the JNKI-1 peptide when fused to the (non-arginine) kFGF CPP, which does not rely on endocytosis for uptake, was not neuroprotective in the glutamic acid model; the kFGF peptide was also ineffective. Similarly, positively charged poly-lysine-10 (K10) and R9 fused to the negatively charged poly-glutamic acid-9 (E9) peptide (R9/E9) displayed minimal neuroprotection after excitotoxicity. These results indicate that peptide positive charge and arginine residues are critical for neuroprotection, and have led us to hypothesize that peptide-induced endocytic internalization of ion channels is a potential mechanism of action. The findings also question the mode of action of different neuroprotective peptides fused to arginine-rich CPPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno P Meloni
- 1] Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [2] Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [3] Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Laura M Brookes
- 1] Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [2] Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [3] Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Vince W Clark
- 1] Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [2] Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [3] Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jane L Cross
- 1] Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [2] Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [3] Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Adam B Edwards
- 1] Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [2] School of Heath Sciences, The University Notre Dame, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ryan S Anderton
- 1] Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [2] School of Heath Sciences, The University Notre Dame, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Richard M Hopkins
- Phylogica Pty. Ltd. Australia and Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Katrin Hoffmann
- Phylogica Pty. Ltd. Australia and Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Neville W Knuckey
- 1] Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [2] Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia [3] Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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19
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Wallbrecher R, Depré L, Verdurmen WPR, Bovée-Geurts PH, van Duinkerken RH, Zekveld MJ, Timmerman P, Brock R. Exploration of the Design Principles of a Cell-Penetrating Bicylic Peptide Scaffold. Bioconjug Chem 2014; 25:955-64. [DOI: 10.1021/bc500107f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rike Wallbrecher
- Department
of Biochemistry (286), Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein 28, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Luc Depré
- Department
of Biochemistry (286), Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein 28, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter P. R. Verdurmen
- Department
of Biochemistry (286), Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein 28, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Petra H. Bovée-Geurts
- Department
of Biochemistry (286), Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein 28, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Mariët J. Zekveld
- Pepscan Therapeutics, Zuidersluisweg
2, 8243 RC Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Timmerman
- Pepscan Therapeutics, Zuidersluisweg
2, 8243 RC Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Roland Brock
- Department
of Biochemistry (286), Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein 28, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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20
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Favretto ME, Wallbrecher R, Schmidt S, van de Putte R, Brock R. Glycosaminoglycans in the cellular uptake of drug delivery vectors – Bystanders or active players? J Control Release 2014; 180:81-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2014.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Revised: 02/07/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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