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Bahrami K, Kärkkäinen J, Bibi S, Huttunen J, Tampio J, Montaser AB, Moody CL, Lehtonen M, Rautio J, Wheelhouse RT, Huttunen KM. Specific transport of temozolomide does not override DNA repair-mediated chemoresistance. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 195:106661. [PMID: 38052257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106661] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Temozolomide (TMZ) a DNA alkylating agent, is the standard-of-care for brain tumors, such as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Although the physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties of TMZ, such as chemical stability and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), have been questioned in the past, the acquired chemoresistance has been the main limiting factor of long-term clinical use of TMZ. In the present study, an L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)-utilizing prodrug of TMZ (TMZ-AA, 6) was prepared and studied for its cellular accumulation and cytotoxic properties in human squamous cell carcinoma, UT-SCC-28 and UT-SCC-42B cells, and TMZ-sensitive human glioma, U-87MG cells that expressed functional LAT1. TMZ-AA 6 accumulated more effectively than TMZ itself into those cancer cells that expressed LAT1 (UT-SCC-42B). However, this did not correlate with decreased viability of treated cells. Indeed, TMZ-AA 6, similarly to TMZ itself, required adjuvant inhibitor(s) of DNA-repair systems, O6-methylguanine-DNA methyl transferase (MGMT) and base excision repair (BER), as well as active DNA mismatch repair (MMR), for maximal growth inhibition. The present study shows that improving the delivery of this widely-used methylating agent is not the main barrier to improved chemotherapy, although utilizing a specific transporter overexpressed at the BBB or glioma cells can have targeting advantages. To obtain a more effective anticancer prodrug, the compound design focus should shift to altering the major DNA alkylation site or inhibiting DNA repair systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katayun Bahrami
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jussi Kärkkäinen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sania Bibi
- School of Pharmacy, University of Bradford, Bradford, BD7 1DP, UK
| | - Johanna Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Janne Tampio
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ahmed B Montaser
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Marko Lehtonen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jarkko Rautio
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Kristiina M Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
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Huttunen J, Tampio J, Järvinen J, Montaser AB, Markowicz-Piasecka M, Huttunen KM. Amino acid derivative of probenecid potentiates apoptosis-inducing effects of vinblastine by increasing oxidative stress in a cancer cell-specific manner. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 388:110833. [PMID: 38101600 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Many chemotherapeutic drugs suffer from multidrug resistance (MDR). Efflux transporters, namely ATP-binding cassettes (ABCs), that pump the drugs out of the cancer cells comprise one major reason behind MDR. Therefore, ABC inhibitors have been under development for ages, but unfortunately, without clinical success. In the present study, an l-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)-utilizing derivative of probenecid (PRB) was developed as a cancer cell-targeted efflux inhibitor for P-glycoprotein (P-gp), breast cancer resistant protein (BCRP) and/or several multidrug resistant proteins (MRPs), and its ability to increase vinblastine (VBL) cellular accumulation and apoptosis-inducing effects were explored. The novel amino acid derivative of PRB (2) increased the VBL exposure in triple-negative human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) and human glioma cells (U-87MG) by 10-68 -times and 2-5-times, respectively, but not in estrogen receptor-positive human breast cancer cells (MCF-7). However, the combination therapy had greater cytotoxic effects in MCF-7 compared to MDA-MB-231 cells due to the increased oxidative stress recorded in MCF-7 cells. The metabolomic study also revealed that compound 2, together with VBL, decreased the transport of those amino acids essential for the biosynthesis of endogenous anti-oxidant glutathione (GSH). Moreover, the metabolic differences between the outcomes of the studied breast cancer cell lines were explained by the distinct expression profiles of solute carriers (SLCs) that can be concomitantly inhibited. Therefore, attacking several SLCs simultaneously to change the nutrient environment of cancer cells can serve as an adjuvant therapy to other chemotherapeutics, offering an alternative to ABC inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Janne Tampio
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Juulia Järvinen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ahmed B Montaser
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Kristiina M Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland.
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3
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Järvinen J, Montaser AB, Adla SK, Leppänen J, Lehtonen M, Vellonen KS, Laitinen T, Jalkanen A, Elmquist WF, Timonen J, Huttunen KM, Rautio J. Altering distribution profile of palbociclib by its prodrugs. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 192:106637. [PMID: 37967656 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106637] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Palbociclib, a cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitor, is currently used clinically for treating hormone receptor-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative breast cancer. Additionally, it has the potential to be utilized in the treatment of various tumors, including malignant glioblastoma. Previous research has indicated that palbociclib is a substrate for two efflux transporters, P-glycoprotein (P-gp; MDR1) and breast cancer-resistant protein (BCRP), which restrict the brain exposure of palbociclib. In the present study, our objective was to alter the brain distribution pattern of palbociclib by creating and assessing two novel prodrugs through in vitro, in situ, and in vivo evaluations. To this end, we synthesized two prodrugs of palbociclib by attaching it to the tyrosine promoiety at the para- (PD1) and meta-(PD2) position via a carbamate bond. We hypothesized that the prodrugs could bypass efflux transporter-mediated drug resistance by leveraging the l-type amino acid transporter (LAT1) to facilitate their transport across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and into cancer cells, such as glioma cells that express LAT1. The compounds PD1 and PD2 did not show selective binding and had limited inhibitory effects on LAT1 in three cell lines (MCF-7, U87-MG, HEK-hLAT1). However, PD1 and PD2 demonstrated the ability to evade efflux mechanisms, and their in vitro uptake profiles were comparable to that of palbociclib, indicating their potential for effective cellular transport. In in situ and in vivo studies, brain uptake was not significantly improved compared to palbociclib, but the pharmacokinetic profiles showed encouraging enhancements. PD1 exhibited a higher AUCbrain/plasma ratio, suggesting safer dosing, while PD2 showed favorable long-acting pharmacokinetics. Although our prodrug design did not significantly improve palbociclib brain delivery due to the potential size limitation of the prodrugs, the study provides valuable insights for future prodrug development and drug delivery strategies targeting specific transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juulia Järvinen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Ahmed B Montaser
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Santosh Kumar Adla
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jukka Leppänen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Marko Lehtonen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Kati-Sisko Vellonen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tuomo Laitinen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Aaro Jalkanen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - William F Elmquist
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Juri Timonen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland; Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5E, P.O. Box 56, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kristiina M Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jarkko Rautio
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
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Gong L, Zhao H, Liu Y, Wu H, Liu C, Chang S, Chen L, Jin M, Wang Q, Gao Z, Huang W. Research advances in peptide‒drug conjugates. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:3659-3677. [PMID: 37719380 PMCID: PMC10501876 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide‒drug conjugates (PDCs) are drug delivery systems consisting of a drug covalently coupled to a multifunctional peptide via a cleavable linker. As an emerging prodrug strategy, PDCs not only preserve the function and bioactivity of the peptides but also release the drugs responsively with the cleavable property of the linkers. Given the ability to significantly improve the circulation stability and targeting of drugs in vivo and reduce the toxic side effects of drugs, PDCs have already been extensively applied in drug delivery. Herein, we review the types and mechanisms of peptides, linkers and drugs used to construct PDCs, and summarize the clinical applications and challenges of PDC drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulations, Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Heming Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulations, Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yanhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulations, Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Chao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulations, Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Shuangyan Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulations, Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Liqing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulations, Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Mingji Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulations, Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Qiming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulations, Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zhonggao Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulations, Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulations, Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
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Bahrami K, Järvinen J, Laitinen T, Reinisalo M, Honkakoski P, Poso A, Huttunen KM, Rautio J. Structural Features Affecting the Interactions and Transportability of LAT1-Targeted Phenylalanine Drug Conjugates. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:206-218. [PMID: 36394563 PMCID: PMC9811466 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) transfers essential amino acids across cell membranes. Owing to its predominant expression in the blood-brain barrier and tumor cells, LAT1 has been exploited for drug delivery and targeting to the central nervous system (CNS) and various cancers. Although the interactions of amino acids and their mimicking compounds with LAT1 have been extensively investigated, the specific structural features for an optimal drug scaffold have not yet been determined. Here, we evaluated a series of LAT1-targeted drug-phenylalanine conjugates (ligands) by determining their uptake rates by in vitro studies and investigating their interaction with LAT1 via induced-fit docking. Combining the experimental and computational data, we concluded that although LAT1 can accommodate various types of structures, smaller compounds are preferred. As the ligand size increased, its flexibility became more crucial in determining the compound's transportability and interactions. Compounds with linear or planar structures exhibited reduced uptake; those with rigid lipophilic structures lacked interactions and likely utilized other transport mechanisms for cellular entry. Introducing polar groups between aromatic structures enhanced interactions. Interestingly, compounds with a carbamate bond in the aromatic ring's para-position displayed very good transport efficiencies for the larger compounds. Compared to the ester bond, the corresponding amide bond had superior hydrogen bond acceptor properties and increased interactions. A reverse amide bond was less favorable than a direct amide bond for interactions with LAT1. The present information can be applied broadly to design appropriate CNS or antineoplastic drug candidates with a prodrug strategy and to discover novel LAT1 inhibitors used either as direct or adjuvant cancer therapy.
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Zhao J, Lv J, Chen Y, Dong Q, Dong H. Recent progress of amino acid transporters as a novel antitumor target. OPEN CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1515/chem-2022-0239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Glutamine transporters transport different amino acids for cell growth and metabolism. In tumor cells, glutamine transporters are often highly expressed and play a crucial role in their growth. By inhibiting the amino acid transport of these transporters, the growth of cancer cells can be inhibited. In recent years, more and more attention has been paid to the study of glutamine transporter. In this article, the differences between the ASC system amino acid transporter 2 (ASCT2), L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1), and the cystine–glutamate exchange (xCT) transporters research progress on the mechanism of action and corresponding small molecule inhibitors are summarized. This article introduces 62 related small molecule inhibitors of different transporters of ASCT2, LAT1, and xCT. These novel chemical structures provide ideas for the research and design of targeted inhibitors of glutamine transporters, as well as important references and clues for the design of new anti-tumor drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiye Zhao
- Department of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, School of Teacher Education, Nanjing Xiaozhuang University , No. 3601 Hongjing Avenue, Jiangning District , Nanjing 211171 , China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University , No. 639 Longmian Avenue, Jiangning District , Nanjing 211198 , China
| | - Jiayi Lv
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University , No. 639 Longmian Avenue, Jiangning District , Nanjing 211198 , China
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University , No. 639 Longmian Avenue, Jiangning District , Nanjing 211198 , China
| | - Qile Dong
- Department of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, School of Teacher Education, Nanjing Xiaozhuang University , No. 3601 Hongjing Avenue, Jiangning District , Nanjing 211171 , China
| | - Hao Dong
- Department of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, School of Teacher Education, Nanjing Xiaozhuang University , No. 3601 Hongjing Avenue, Jiangning District , Nanjing 211171 , China
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Hugele A, Löffler S, Molina BH, Guillon M, Montaser AB, Auriola S, Huttunen KM. Aminopeptidase B can bioconvert L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)-utilizing amide prodrugs in the brain. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1034964. [PMID: 36339537 PMCID: PMC9631218 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1034964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A prodrug approach is a powerful method to temporarily change the physicochemical and thus, pharmacokinetic properties of drugs. However, in site-selective targeted prodrug delivery, tissue or cell-specific bioconverting enzyme is needed to be utilized to release the active parent drug at a particular location. Unfortunately, ubiquitously expressed enzymes, such as phosphatases and carboxylesterases are well used in phosphate and ester prodrug applications, but less is known about enzymes selectively expressed, e.g., in the brain and enzymes that can hydrolyze more stable prodrug bonds, such as amides and carbamates. In the present study, L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)-utilizing amide prodrugs bioconverting enzyme was identified by gradually exploring the environment and possible determinants, such as pH and metal ions, that affect amide prodrug hydrolysis. Based on inducement by cobalt ions and slightly elevated pH (8.5) as well as localization in plasma, liver, and particularly in the brain, aminopeptidase B was proposed to be responsible for the bioconversion of the majority of the studied amino acid amide prodrugs. However, this enzyme hydrolyzed only those prodrugs that contained an aromatic promoiety (L-Phe), while leaving the aliphatic promoeities (L-Lys) and the smallest prodrug (with L-Phe promoiety) intact. Moreover, the parent drugs’ structure (flexibility and the number of aromatic rings) largely affected the bioconversion rate. It was also noticed in this study, that there were species differences in the bioconversion rate by aminopeptidase B (rodents > human), although the in vitro–in vivo correlation of the studied prodrugs was relatively accurate.
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Srisongkram T, Bahrami K, Järvinen J, Timonen J, Rautio J, Weerapreeyakul N. Development of Sesamol Carbamate-L-Phenylalanine Prodrug Targeting L-Type Amino Acid Transporter1 (LAT1) as a Potential Antiproliferative Agent against Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158446. [PMID: 35955600 PMCID: PMC9369069 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sesamol is a compound reported to have anti-melanogenesis and anti-melanoma actions. Sesamol, however, has low intracellular drug concentration and fast excretion, which can limit its benefits in the clinic. To overcome this drawback and increase intracellular delivery of sesamol into the target melanoma, research has focused on L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)-mediated prodrug delivery into melanoma cells. The sesamol prodrug was designed by conjugating sesamol with L-phenylalanine at the para position with a carbamate bond. LAT1 targeting was evaluated vis-à-vis a competitive [14C]-leucine uptake inhibition. The sesamol prodrug has a higher [14C]-leucine uptake inhibition than sesamol in human LAT1-transfected HEK293 cells. Moreover, the sesamol prodrug was taken up by LAT1-mediated transport into SK-MEL-2 cells more effectively than sesamol. The sesamol prodrug underwent complete hydrolysis, releasing the active sesamol at 72 h, which significantly exerted its cytotoxicity (IC50 of 29.3 µM) against SK-MEL-cells more than sesamol alone. Taken together, the strategy for LAT1-mediated prodrug delivery has utility for the selective uptake of sesamol, thereby increasing its intracellular concentration and antiproliferation activity, targeting melanoma SK-MEL-2 cells that overexpress the LAT1 protein. The sesamol prodrug thus warrants further evaluation in an in vivo model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarapong Srisongkram
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand;
- Research Institute for Human High Performance and Health Promotion, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Katayun Bahrami
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (K.B.); (J.J.); (J.T.)
| | - Juulia Järvinen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (K.B.); (J.J.); (J.T.)
| | - Juri Timonen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (K.B.); (J.J.); (J.T.)
| | - Jarkko Rautio
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (K.B.); (J.J.); (J.T.)
- Correspondence: (J.R.); (N.W.)
| | - Natthida Weerapreeyakul
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand;
- Research Institute for Human High Performance and Health Promotion, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- Correspondence: (J.R.); (N.W.)
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9
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Targeting Transporters for Drug Delivery to the Brain: Can We Do Better? Pharm Res 2022; 39:1415-1455. [PMID: 35359241 PMCID: PMC9246765 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03241-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Limited drug delivery to the brain is one of the major reasons for high failure rates of central nervous system (CNS) drug candidates. The blood–brain barrier (BBB) with its tight junctions, membrane transporters, receptors and metabolizing enzymes is a main player in drug delivery to the brain, restricting the entrance of the drugs and other xenobiotics. Current knowledge about the uptake transporters expressed at the BBB and brain parenchymal cells has been used for delivery of CNS drugs to the brain via targeting transporters. Although many transporter-utilizing (pro)drugs and nanocarriers have been developed to improve the uptake of drugs to the brain, their success rate of translation from preclinical development to humans is negligible. In the present review, we provide a systematic summary of the current progress in development of transporter-utilizing (pro)drugs and nanocarriers for delivery of drugs to the brain. In addition, we applied CNS pharmacokinetic concepts for evaluation of the limitations and gaps in investigation of the developed transporter-utilizing (pro)drugs and nanocarriers. Finally, we give recommendations for a rational development of transporter-utilizing drug delivery systems targeting the brain based on CNS pharmacokinetic principles.
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10
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Kärkkäinen J, Laitinen T, Markowicz-Piasecka M, Montaser A, Lehtonen M, Rautio J, Gynther M, Poso A, Huttunen KM. Molecular characteristics supporting l-Type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)-mediated translocation. Bioorg Chem 2021; 112:104921. [PMID: 33933805 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.104921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
l-Type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) is an interesting protein due to its peculiar expression profile. It can be utilized not only as a carrier for improved or targeted drug delivery, e.g., into the brain but also as a target protein by which amino acid supply can be restricted, e.g., from the cancer cells. The recognition and binding processes of LAT1-ligands, such as amino acids and clinically used small molecules, including l-dopa, gabapentin, and melphalan, are today well-known. Binding to LAT1 is crucial, particularly when designing the LAT1-inhibitors. However, it will not guarantee effective translocation across the cell membrane via LAT1, which is a definite requirement for LAT1-substrates, such as drugs that elicit their pharmacological effects inside the cells. Therefore, in the present study, the accumulation of known LAT1-utilizing compounds into the selected LAT1-expressing cancer cells (MCF-7) was explored experimentally over a time period. The differences found among the transport efficiency and affinity of the studied compounds for LAT1 were subsequently explained by docking the ligands into the human LAT1 model (based on the recent cryo-electron microscopy structure). Thus, the findings of this study clarify the favorable structural requirements of the size, shape, and polarity of the ligands that support the translocation and effective transport across the cell membrane via LAT1. This knowledge can be applied in future drug design to attain improved or targeted drug delivery and hence, successful LAT1-utilizing drugs with increased therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jussi Kärkkäinen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland; Department of Pharmacy, Kuopio University Hospital, Finland, P.O. Box 100, FI-70029, KYS, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tuomo Laitinen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Magdalena Markowicz-Piasecka
- Laboratory of Bioanalysis, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry Drug Analysis and Radiopharmacy, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Ahmed Montaser
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Marko Lehtonen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jarkko Rautio
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Mikko Gynther
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Antti Poso
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Kristiina M Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
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11
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Islam Y, Ehtezazi P, Cashmore A, Marinsalda E, Leach AG, Coxon CR, Fatokun AA, Sexton DW, Khan I, Zouganelis G, Downing J, Pluchino S, Sivakumaran M, Teixido M, Ehtezazi T. The Inclusion of a Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Responsive Sequence in Self-assembled Peptide-based Brain-Targeting Nanoparticles Improves the Efficiency of Nanoparticles Crossing the Blood-Brain Barrier at Elevated MMP-9 Levels. J Pharm Sci 2020; 110:1349-1364. [PMID: 33333144 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2020.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated whether the inclusion of a matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) responsive sequence in self-assembled peptide-based brain-targeting nanoparticles (NPs) would enhance the blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration when MMP-9 levels are elevated both in the brain and blood circulation. Brain-targeting peptides were conjugated at the N-terminus to MMP-9-responsive peptides, and these were conjugated at the N-terminus to lipid moiety (cholesteryl chloroformate or palmitic acid). Two constructs did not have MMP-9-responsive peptides. NPs were characterised for size, charge, critical micelle concentration, toxicity, blood compatibility, neural cell uptake, release profiles, and in vitro BBB permeability simulating normal or elevated MMP-9 levels. The inclusion of MMP-9-sensitive sequences did not improve the release of a model drug in the presence of active MMP-9 from NPs compared to distilled water. 19F NMR studies suggested the burial of MMP-9-sensitive sequences inside the NPs making them inaccessible to MMP-9. Only cholesterol-GGGCKAPETALC (responsive to MMP-9) NPs showed <5% haemolysis, <1 pg/mL release of IL-1β at 500 μg/mL from THP1 cells, with 70.75 ± 5.78% of NPs crossing the BBB at 24 h in presence of active MMP-9. In conclusion, brain-targeting NPs showed higher transport across the BBB model when MMP-9 levels were elevated and the brain-targeting ligand was responsive to MMP-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamir Islam
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Parinaz Ehtezazi
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Andrew Cashmore
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Elena Marinsalda
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Andrew G Leach
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Christopher R Coxon
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Amos A Fatokun
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Darren W Sexton
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Iftikhar Khan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Georgios Zouganelis
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - James Downing
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Stefano Pluchino
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Clifford Allbutt Building - Cambridge Biosciences Campus and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Hills Road, CB2 0HA Cambridge, UK
| | - Muttuswamy Sivakumaran
- Department of Haematology, Peterborough City Hospital, Edith Cavell Campus, Bretton Gate Peterborough, PE3 9GZ, Peterborough, UK
| | - Meritxell Teixido
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 10, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Touraj Ehtezazi
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK.
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12
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Hanes J, Dobakova E, Majerova P. Brain Drug Delivery: Overcoming the Blood-brain Barrier to Treat Tauopathies. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:1448-1465. [PMID: 32178609 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200316130128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Tauopathies are neurodegenerative disorders characterized by the deposition of abnormal tau protein in the brain. The application of potentially effective therapeutics for their successful treatment is hampered by the presence of a naturally occurring brain protection layer called the blood-brain barrier (BBB). BBB represents one of the biggest challenges in the development of therapeutics for central nervous system (CNS) disorders, where sufficient BBB penetration is inevitable. BBB is a heavily restricting barrier regulating the movement of molecules, ions, and cells between the blood and the CNS to secure proper neuronal function and protect the CNS from dangerous substances and processes. Yet, these natural functions possessed by BBB represent a great hurdle for brain drug delivery. This review is concentrated on summarizing the available methods and approaches for effective therapeutics' delivery through the BBB to treat neurodegenerative disorders with a focus on tauopathies. It describes the traditional approaches but also new nanotechnology strategies emerging with advanced medical techniques. Their limitations and benefits are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jozef Hanes
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 10 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Eva Dobakova
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 10 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Petra Majerova
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 10 Bratislava, Slovakia
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13
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Zhang J, Xu Y, Li D, Fu L, Zhang X, Bao Y, Zheng L. Review of the Correlation of LAT1 With Diseases: Mechanism and Treatment. Front Chem 2020; 8:564809. [PMID: 33195053 PMCID: PMC7606929 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.564809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
LAT1 is a member of the system L transporter family. The main role of the LAT1 is to transport specific amino acids through cell membranes to provide nutrients to cells and participate in several metabolic pathways. It also contributes to the transport of hormones and some drugs, which are essential for the development and treatment of some diseases. In recent years, many studies have shown that LAT1 is related to cancer, obesity, diabetes, and other diseases. However, the specific mechanism underlying the influence of LAT1 on such conditions remains unclear. Through the increasing number of studies on LAT1, we have obtained a preliminary understanding on the function of LAT1 in diseases. These studies also provide a theoretical basis for finding treatments for LAT1-related diseases, such as cancer. This review summarizes the function and mechanism of LAT1 in different diseases and the treatment of LAT1-related diseases. It also provides support for the development of novel and reliable disease treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingshun Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Dandan Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lulu Fu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xueying Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yigang Bao
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lianwen Zheng
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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14
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Revisiting the blood-brain barrier: A hard nut to crack in the transportation of drug molecules. Brain Res Bull 2020; 160:121-140. [PMID: 32315731 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2020.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Barriers are the hallmark of a healthy physiology, blood-brain barrier (BBB) being a tough nut to crack for most of the antigens and chemical substances. The presence of tight junctions plays a remarkable role in defending the brain from antigenic and pathogenic attacks. BBB constitutes a diverse assemblage of multiple physical and chemical barriers that judiciously restrict the flux of blood solutes into and out of the brain. Restrictions through the paracellular pathway and the tight junctions between intercellular clefts, together create well regulated metabolic and transport barricades, critical to brain pathophysiology. The brain being impermeable to many essential metabolites and nutrients regulates transportation via specialized transport systems across the endothelial abluminal and luminal membranes. The epithelial cells enveloping capillaries of the choroid plexus regulates the transport of complement, growth factors, hormones, microelements, peptides and trace elements into ventricles. Nerve terminals, microglia, and pericytes associated with the endothelium support barrier induction and function, ensuring an optimally stable ionic microenvironment that facilitates neurotransmission, orchestrated by multiple ion channels (Na+, K+ Mg2+, Ca2+) and transporters. Brain pathology which can develop due to genetic mutations or secondary to other cerebrovascular, neurodegenerative diseases can cause aberration in the microvasculature of CNS which is the uniqueness of BBB. This can also alter BBB permeation and result in BBB breakdown and other neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis. The concluding section outlines contemporary trends in drug discovery, focusing on molecular determinants of BBB permeation and novel drug-delivery systems, such as dendrimers, liposomes, nanoparticles, nanogels, etc.
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15
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Scalise M, Pochini L, Galluccio M, Console L, Indiveri C. Glutamine transporters as pharmacological targets: From function to drug design. Asian J Pharm Sci 2020; 15:207-219. [PMID: 32373200 PMCID: PMC7193454 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2020.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the different targets of administered drugs, there are membrane transporters that play also a role in drug delivery and disposition. Moreover, drug-transporter interactions are responsible for off-target effects of drugs underlying their toxicity. The improvement of the drug design process is subjected to the identification of those membrane transporters mostly relevant for drug absorption, delivery and side effect production. A peculiar group of proteins with great relevance to pharmacology is constituted by the membrane transporters responsible for managing glutamine traffic in different body districts. The interest around glutamine metabolism lies in its physio-pathological role; glutamine is considered a conditionally essential amino acid because highly proliferative cells have an increased request of glutamine that cannot be satisfied only by endogenous synthesis. Then, glutamine transporters provide cells with this special nutrient. Among the glutamine transporters, SLC1A5, SLC6A14, SLC6A19, SLC7A5, SLC7A8 and some members of SLC38 family are the best characterized, so far, in both physiological and pathological conditions. Few 3D structures have been solved by CryoEM; other structural data on these transporters have been obtained by computational analysis. Interactions with drugs have been described for several transporters of this group. For some of them, the studies are at an advanced stage, for others, the studies are still in nuce and novel biochemical findings open intriguing perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariafrancesca Scalise
- Department of DiBEST (Biologia, Ecologia e Scienze della Terra), University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS) 87036, Italy
| | - Lorena Pochini
- Department of DiBEST (Biologia, Ecologia e Scienze della Terra), University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS) 87036, Italy
| | - Michele Galluccio
- Department of DiBEST (Biologia, Ecologia e Scienze della Terra), University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS) 87036, Italy
| | - Lara Console
- Department of DiBEST (Biologia, Ecologia e Scienze della Terra), University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS) 87036, Italy
| | - Cesare Indiveri
- Department of DiBEST (Biologia, Ecologia e Scienze della Terra), University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS) 87036, Italy
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16
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Akhtar MJ, Yar MS, Grover G, Nath R. Neurological and psychiatric management using COMT inhibitors: A review. Bioorg Chem 2020; 94:103418. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.103418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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17
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The solute carrier transporters and the brain: Physiological and pharmacological implications. Asian J Pharm Sci 2019; 15:131-144. [PMID: 32373195 PMCID: PMC7193445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2019.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Solute carriers (SLCs) are the largest family of transmembrane transporters that determine the exchange of various substances, including nutrients, ions, metabolites, and drugs across biological membranes. To date, the presence of about 287 SLC genes have been identified in the brain, among which mutations or the resultant dysfunctions of 71 SLC genes have been reported to be correlated with human brain disorders. Although increasing interest in SLCs have focused on drug development, SLCs are currently still under-explored as drug targets, especially in the brain. We summarize the main substrates and functions of SLCs that are expressed in the brain, with an emphasis on selected SLCs that are important physiologically, pathologically, and pharmacologically in the blood-brain barrier, astrocytes, and neurons. Evidence suggests that a fraction of SLCs are regulated along with the occurrences of brain disorders, among which epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, and autism are representative. Given the review of SLCs involved in the onset and procession of brain disorders, we hope these SLCs will be screened as promising drug targets to improve drug delivery to the brain.
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18
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Rigorous sampling of docking poses unveils binding hypothesis for the halogenated ligands of L-type Amino acid Transporter 1 (LAT1). Sci Rep 2019; 9:15061. [PMID: 31636293 PMCID: PMC6803698 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51455-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
L-type Amino acid Transporter 1 (LAT1) plays a significant role in the growth and propagation of cancer cells by facilitating the cross-membrane transport of essential nutrients, and is an attractive drug target. Several halogen-containing L-phenylalanine-based ligands display high affinity and high selectivity for LAT1; nonetheless, their molecular mechanism of binding remains unclear. In this study, a combined in silico strategy consisting of homology modeling, molecular docking, and Quantum Mechanics-Molecular Mechanics (QM-MM) simulation was applied to elucidate the molecular basis of ligand binding in LAT1. First, a homology model of LAT1 based on the atomic structure of a prokaryotic homolog was constructed. Docking studies using a set of halogenated ligands allowed for deriving a binding hypothesis. Selected docking poses were subjected to QM-MM calculations to investigate the halogen interactions. Collectively, the results highlight the dual nature of the ligand-protein binding mode characterized by backbone hydrogen bond interactions of the amino acid moiety of the ligands and residues I63, S66, G67, F252, G255, as well as hydrophobic interactions of the ligand’s side chains with residues I139, I140, F252, G255, F402, W405. QM-MM optimizations indicated that the electrostatic interactions involving halogens contribute to the binding free energy. Importantly, our results are in good agreement with the recently unraveled cryo-Electron Microscopy structures of LAT1.
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19
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Huttunen J, Peltokangas S, Gynther M, Natunen T, Hiltunen M, Auriola S, Ruponen M, Vellonen KS, Huttunen KM. L-Type Amino Acid Transporter 1 (LAT1/Lat1)-Utilizing Prodrugs Can Improve the Delivery of Drugs into Neurons, Astrocytes and Microglia. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12860. [PMID: 31492955 PMCID: PMC6731241 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49009-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
l-Type Amino Acid Transporter 1 (LAT1/Lat1) is responsible for carrying large, neutral l-amino acids as well as several drugs and prodrugs across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). However, the BBB is not the only barrier that hinders drugs acting effectively within the brain; the brain parenchymal cell membranes represent a secondary barrier for the drugs with intracellular target sites. In this study, expression and function of Lat1 was quantified in mouse primary neuron, astrocyte and immortalized microglia (BV2) cultures. Moreover, ability of Lat1 to carry prodrugs inside these brain cells was evaluated. The results showed that Lat1 was localized at the similar level in all studied cells (3.07 ± 0.92–3.77 ± 0.91 fmol/µg protein). The transporter was also functional in all three cell types, astrocytes having the highest transport capacity and affinity for the LAT1/Lat1-substrate, [14C]-l-leucine, followed by neurons and microglia. The designed prodrugs (1-6) were able to utilize Lat1 for their cellular uptake and it was mainly much higher than the one of their parent drugs. Interestingly, improved cellular uptake was also achieved in cells representing Alzheimer’s Disease phenotype. Therefore, improved delivery and intra-brain targeting of drugs can be attained by utilizing LAT1/Lat1 and prodrug approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Soile Peltokangas
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Mikko Gynther
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Teemu Natunen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Mikko Hiltunen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Seppo Auriola
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Marika Ruponen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Kati-Sisko Vellonen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Kristiina M Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland.
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20
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Sayyad N, Vrettos EI, Karampelas T, Chatzigiannis CM, Spyridaki K, Liapakis G, Tamvakopoulos C, Tzakos AG. Development of bioactive gemcitabine-D-Lys6-GnRH prodrugs with linker-controllable drug release rate and enhanced biopharmaceutical profile. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 166:256-266. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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