1
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Mustafa YL, Balestri A, Huang X, Palivan C. Redefining drug therapy: innovative approaches using catalytic compartments. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024. [PMID: 39259136 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2403476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rapid excretion of drug derivatives often results in short drug half-lives, necessitating frequent administrations. Catalytic compartments, also known as nano- and micro-reactors, offer a solution by providing confined environments for in situ production of therapeutic agents. Inspired by natural compartments, polymer-based catalytic compartments have been developed to improve reaction efficiency and enable site-specific therapeutic applications. AREAS COVERED Polymer-based compartments provide stability, permeability control, and responsiveness to stimuli, making them ideal for generating localized compounds/signals. These sophisticated systems, engineered to carry active compounds and enable selective molecular release, represent a significant advancement in pharmaceutical research. They mimic cellular functions, creating controlled catalytic environments for bio-relevant processes. This review explores the latest advancements in synthetic catalytic compartments, focusing on design approaches, building blocks, active molecules, and key bio-applications. EXPERT OPINION Catalytic compartments hold transformative potential in precision medicine by improving therapeutic outcomes through precise, on-site production of therapeutic agents. While promising, challenges like scalable manufacturing, biodegradability, and regulatory hurdles must be addressed to realize their full potential. Addressing these will be crucial for their successful application in healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arianna Balestri
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Xinan Huang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, Basel, Switzerland
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2
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Brodszkij E, Städler B. Advances in block copolymer-phospholipid hybrid vesicles: from physical-chemical properties to applications. Chem Sci 2024; 15:10724-10744. [PMID: 39027291 PMCID: PMC11253165 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc01444h] [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: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Hybrid vesicles, made of lipids and amphiphilic block copolymers, have become increasingly popular thanks to their versatile properties that enable the construction of intricate membranes mimicking cellular structures. This tutorial review gives an overview over the different hybrid vesicle designs, and provides a detailed analysis of their properties, including their composition, membrane fluidity, membrane homogeneity, permeability, stability. The review puts emphasis on the application of these hybrid vesicles in bottom-up synthetic biology and aims to offer an overview of design guidelines, particularly focusing on composition, to eventually realize the intended applications of these hybrid vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edit Brodszkij
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO) Aarhus University Gustave Wieds Vej 14 8000 Aarhus C Denmark
| | - Brigitte Städler
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO) Aarhus University Gustave Wieds Vej 14 8000 Aarhus C Denmark
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3
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Belluati A, Jimaja S, Chadwick RJ, Glynn C, Chami M, Happel D, Guo C, Kolmar H, Bruns N. Artificial cell synthesis using biocatalytic polymerization-induced self-assembly. Nat Chem 2024; 16:564-574. [PMID: 38049652 PMCID: PMC10997521 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-023-01391-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Artificial cells are biomimetic microstructures that mimic functions of natural cells, can be applied as building blocks for molecular systems engineering, and host synthetic biology pathways. Here we report enzymatically synthesized polymer-based artificial cells with the ability to express proteins. Artificial cells were synthesized using biocatalytic atom transfer radical polymerization-induced self-assembly, in which myoglobin synthesizes amphiphilic block co-polymers that self-assemble into structures such as micelles, worm-like micelles, polymersomes and giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). The GUVs encapsulate cargo during the polymerization, including enzymes, nanoparticles, microparticles, plasmids and cell lysate. The resulting artificial cells act as microreactors for enzymatic reactions and for osteoblast-inspired biomineralization. Moreover, they can express proteins such as a fluorescent protein and actin when fed with amino acids. Actin polymerizes in the vesicles and alters the artificial cells' internal structure by creating internal compartments. Thus, biocatalytic atom transfer radical polymerization-induced self-assembly-derived GUVs can mimic bacteria as they are composed of a microscopic reaction compartment that contains genetic information for protein expression upon induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Belluati
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Thomas Graham Building, Glasgow, UK.
- Department of Chemistry and Centre for Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany.
| | - Sètuhn Jimaja
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Robert J Chadwick
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Thomas Graham Building, Glasgow, UK
| | - Christopher Glynn
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Thomas Graham Building, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Dominic Happel
- Department of Chemistry and Centre for Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Chao Guo
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Thomas Graham Building, Glasgow, UK
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Department of Chemistry and Centre for Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Nico Bruns
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Thomas Graham Building, Glasgow, UK.
- Department of Chemistry and Centre for Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany.
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4
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Tian F, Zhou Y, Ma Z, Tang R, Wang X. Organismal Function Enhancement through Biomaterial Intervention. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:377. [PMID: 38392750 PMCID: PMC10891834 DOI: 10.3390/nano14040377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Living organisms in nature, such as magnetotactic bacteria and eggs, generate various organic-inorganic hybrid materials, providing unique functionalities. Inspired by such natural hybrid materials, researchers can reasonably integrate biomaterials with living organisms either internally or externally to enhance their inherent capabilities and generate new functionalities. Currently, the approaches to enhancing organismal function through biomaterial intervention have undergone rapid development, progressing from the cellular level to the subcellular or multicellular level. In this review, we will concentrate on three key strategies related to biomaterial-guided bioenhancement, including biointerface engineering, artificial organelles, and 3D multicellular immune niches. For biointerface engineering, excess of amino acid residues on the surfaces of cells or viruses enables the assembly of materials to form versatile artificial shells, facilitating vaccine engineering and biological camouflage. Artificial organelles refer to artificial subcellular reactors made of biomaterials that persist in the cytoplasm, which imparts cells with on-demand regulatory ability. Moreover, macroscale biomaterials with spatiotemporal regulation characters enable the local recruitment and aggregation of cells, denoting multicellular niche to enhance crosstalk between cells and antigens. Collectively, harnessing the programmable chemical and biological attributes of biomaterials for organismal function enhancement shows significant potential in forthcoming biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengchao Tian
- Qiushi Academy for Advanced Studies, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (F.T.); (Y.Z.)
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China;
| | - Yuemin Zhou
- Qiushi Academy for Advanced Studies, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (F.T.); (Y.Z.)
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China;
| | - Zaiqiang Ma
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China;
| | - Ruikang Tang
- Qiushi Academy for Advanced Studies, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (F.T.); (Y.Z.)
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China;
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Qiushi Academy for Advanced Studies, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (F.T.); (Y.Z.)
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5
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Gao Y, Gao C, Fan Y, Sun H, Du J. Physically and Chemically Compartmentalized Polymersomes for Programmed Delivery and Biological Applications. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:5511-5538. [PMID: 37933444 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Multicompartment polymersomes (MCPs) refer to polymersomes that not only contain one single compartment, either in the membrane or in the internal cavity, but also mimic the compartmentalized structure of living cells, attracting much attention in programmed delivery and biological applications. The investigation of MCPs may promote the application of soft nanomaterials in biomedicine. This Review seeks to highlight the recent advances of the design principles, synthetic strategies, and biomedical applications of MCPs. The compartmentalization types including chemical, physical, and hybrid compartmentalization are discussed. Subsequently, the design and controlled synthesis of MCPs by the self-assembly of amphiphilic polymers, double emulsification, coprecipitation, microfluidics and particle assembly, etc. are summarized. Furthermore, the diverse applications of MCPs in programmed delivery of various cargoes and biological applications including cancer therapy, antimicrobials, and regulation of blood glucose levels are highlighted. Finally, future perspectives of MCPs from the aspects of controlled synthesis and applications are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaning Gao
- State Key Laboratory of High-Efficiency Coal Utilization and Green Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, China
| | - Chenchen Gao
- State Key Laboratory of High-Efficiency Coal Utilization and Green Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, China
| | - Yirong Fan
- State Key Laboratory of High-Efficiency Coal Utilization and Green Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, China
| | - Hui Sun
- State Key Laboratory of High-Efficiency Coal Utilization and Green Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, China
| | - Jianzhong Du
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
- Department of Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
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Wang R, Yu Y, Gai M, Mateos-Maroto A, Morsbach S, Xia X, He M, Fan J, Peng X, Landfester K, Jiang S, Sun W. Liposomal Enzyme Nanoreactors Based on Nanoconfinement for Efficient Antitumor Therapy. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202308761. [PMID: 37496129 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202308761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Enzymatic reactions can consume endogenous nutrients of tumors and produce cytotoxic species and are therefore promising tools for treating malignant tumors. Inspired by nature where enzymes are compartmentalized in membranes to achieve high reaction efficiency and separate biological processes with the environment, we develop liposomal nanoreactors that can perform enzymatic cascade reactions in the aqueous nanoconfinement of liposomes. The nanoreactors effectively inhibited tumor growth in vivo by consuming tumor nutrients (glucose and oxygen) and producing highly cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH). Co-compartmentalization of glucose oxidase (GOx) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) in liposomes could increase local concentration of the intermediate product hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ) as well as the acidity due to the generation of gluconic acid by GOx. Both H2 O2 and acidity accelerate the second-step reaction by HRP, hence improving the overall efficiency of the cascade reaction. The biomimetic compartmentalization of enzymatic tandem reactions in biocompatible liposomes provides a promising direction for developing catalytic nanomedicines in antitumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Hi-tech Zone, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Yingjie Yu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Meiyu Gai
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ana Mateos-Maroto
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Svenja Morsbach
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Xiang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Hi-tech Zone, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Maomao He
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Hi-tech Zone, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Jiangli Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Hi-tech Zone, Dalian, 116024, China
- Ningbo Institute of Dalian University of Technology, No. 26 Yucai Road, Jiangbei District, Ningbo, 315016, China
| | - Xiaojun Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Hi-tech Zone, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Katharina Landfester
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Shuai Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Wen Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Hi-tech Zone, Dalian, 116024, China
- Ningbo Institute of Dalian University of Technology, No. 26 Yucai Road, Jiangbei District, Ningbo, 315016, China
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7
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Gonçalves JP, Promlok D, Ivanov T, Tao S, Rheinberger T, Jo SM, Yu Y, Graf R, Wagner M, Crespy D, Wurm FR, Caire da Silva L, Jiang S, Landfester K. Confining the Sol-Gel Reaction at the Water/Oil Interface: Creating Compartmentalized Enzymatic Nano-Organelles for Artificial Cells. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202216966. [PMID: 36517933 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202216966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Living organisms compartmentalize their catalytic reactions in membranes for increased efficiency and selectivity. To mimic the organelles of eukaryotic cells, we develop a mild approach for in situ encapsulating enzymes in aqueous-core silica nanocapsules. In order to confine the sol-gel reaction at the water/oil interface of miniemulsion, we introduce an aminosilane to the silica precursors, which serves as both catalyst and an amphiphilic anchor that electrostatically assembles with negatively charged hydrolyzed alkoxysilanes at the interface. The semi-permeable shell protects enzymes from proteolytic attack, and allows the transport of reactants and products. The enzyme-carrying nanocapsules, as synthetic nano-organelles, are able to perform cascade reactions when enveloped in a polymer vesicle, mimicking the hierarchically compartmentalized reactions in eukaryotic cells. This in situ encapsulation approach provides a versatile platform for the delivery of biomacromolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenifer Pendiuk Gonçalves
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany.,Federal University of Paraná, Av. Cel Francisco H dos Santos, s/n, CEP, 81530-980, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Duangkamol Promlok
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Tsvetomir Ivanov
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Shijia Tao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Timo Rheinberger
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Seong-Min Jo
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Yingjie Yu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Robert Graf
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Manfred Wagner
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Daniel Crespy
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Molecular Science and Engineering, Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC), Rayong, 21210, Thailand
| | - Frederik R Wurm
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Lucas Caire da Silva
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Shuai Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Katharina Landfester
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
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8
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Wang Y, Zhao Q, Haag R, Wu C. Biocatalytic Synthesis Using Self-Assembled Polymeric Nano- and Microreactors. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202213974. [PMID: 36260531 PMCID: PMC10100074 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202213974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Biocatalysis is increasingly being explored for the sustainable development of green industry. Though enzymes show great industrial potential with their high efficiency, specificity, and selectivity, they suffer from poor usability and stability under abiological conditions. To solve these problems, researchers have fabricated nano- and micro-sized biocatalytic reactors based on the self-assembly of various polymers, leading to highly stable, functional, and reusable biocatalytic systems. This Review highlights recent progress in self-assembled polymeric nano- and microreactors for biocatalytic synthesis, including polymersomes, reverse micelles, polymer emulsions, Pickering emulsions, and static emulsions. We categorize these reactors into monophasic and biphasic systems and discuss their structural characteristics and latest successes with representative examples. We also consider the challenges and potential solutions associated with the future development of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangxin Wang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Puzhu Road(S) 30, 211816, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Qingcai Zhao
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Takustrasse 3, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rainer Haag
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Takustrasse 3, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Changzhu Wu
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense, Denmark.,Danish Institute for Advanced Study, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense, Denmark
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9
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Zhang S, Zhang R, Yan X, Fan K. Nanozyme-Based Artificial Organelles: An Emerging Direction for Artificial Organelles. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2202294. [PMID: 35869033 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202202294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Artificial organelles are compartmentalized nanoreactors, in which enzymes or enzyme-mimic catalysts exhibit cascade catalytic activities to mimic the functions of natural organelles. Importantly, research on artificial organelles paves the way for the bottom-up design of synthetic cells. Due to the separation effect of microcompartments, the catalytic reactions of enzymes are performed without the influence of the surrounding medium. The current techniques for synthesizing artificial organelles rely on the strategies of encapsulating enzymes into vesicle-structured materials or reconstituting enzymes onto the microcompartment materials. However, there are still some problems including limited functions, unregulated activities, and difficulty in targeting delivery that hamper the applications of artificial organelles. The emergence of nanozymes (nanomaterials with enzyme-like activities) provides novel ideas for the fabrication of artificial organelles. Compared with natural enzymes, nanozymes are featured with multiple enzymatic activities, higher stability, easier to synthesize, lower cost, and excellent recyclability. Herein, the most recent advances in nanozyme-based artificial organelles are summarized. Moreover, the benefits of compartmental structures for the applications of nanozymes, as well as the functional requirements of microcompartment materials are also introduced. Finally, the potential applications of nanozyme-based artificial organelles in biomedicine and the related challenges are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Zhang
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Nanozyme, Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceutical, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ruofei Zhang
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Nanozyme, Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceutical, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Xiyun Yan
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Nanozyme, Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceutical, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Nanozyme Medical Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Kelong Fan
- CAS Engineering Laboratory for Nanozyme, Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceutical, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Nanozyme Medical Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
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10
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Heuberger L, Korpidou M, Eggenberger OM, Kyropoulou M, Palivan CG. Current Perspectives on Synthetic Compartments for Biomedical Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5718. [PMID: 35628527 PMCID: PMC9145047 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Nano- and micrometer-sized compartments composed of synthetic polymers are designed to mimic spatial and temporal divisions found in nature. Self-assembly of polymers into compartments such as polymersomes, giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs), layer-by-layer (LbL) capsules, capsosomes, or polyion complex vesicles (PICsomes) allows for the separation of defined environments from the exterior. These compartments can be further engineered through the incorporation of (bio)molecules within the lumen or into the membrane, while the membrane can be decorated with functional moieties to produce catalytic compartments with defined structures and functions. Nanometer-sized compartments are used for imaging, theranostic, and therapeutic applications as a more mechanically stable alternative to liposomes, and through the encapsulation of catalytic molecules, i.e., enzymes, catalytic compartments can localize and act in vivo. On the micrometer scale, such biohybrid systems are used to encapsulate model proteins and form multicompartmentalized structures through the combination of multiple compartments, reaching closer to the creation of artificial organelles and cells. Significant progress in therapeutic applications and modeling strategies has been achieved through both the creation of polymers with tailored properties and functionalizations and novel techniques for their assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Heuberger
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; (L.H.); (M.K.); (O.M.E.); (M.K.)
| | - Maria Korpidou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; (L.H.); (M.K.); (O.M.E.); (M.K.)
| | - Olivia M. Eggenberger
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; (L.H.); (M.K.); (O.M.E.); (M.K.)
| | - Myrto Kyropoulou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; (L.H.); (M.K.); (O.M.E.); (M.K.)
- NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1095, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia G. Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; (L.H.); (M.K.); (O.M.E.); (M.K.)
- NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1095, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
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11
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Korpidou M, Maffeis V, Dinu IA, Schoenenberger CA, Meier WP, Palivan CG. Inverting glucuronidation of hymecromone in situ by catalytic nanocompartments. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:3916-3926. [PMID: 35485215 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb00243d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Glucuronidation is a metabolic pathway that inactivates many drugs including hymecromone. Adverse effects of glucuronide metabolites include a reduction of half-life circulation times and rapid elimination from the body. Herein, we developed synthetic catalytic nanocompartments able to cleave the glucuronide moiety from the metabolized form of hymecromone in order to convert it to the active drug. By shielding enzymes from their surroundings, catalytic nanocompartments favor prolonged activity and lower immunogenicity as key aspects to improve the therapeutic solution. The catalytic nanocompartments (CNCs) consist of self-assembled poly(dimethylsiloxane)-block-poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) diblock copolymer polymersomes encapsulating β-glucuronidase. Insertion of melittin in the synthetic membrane of these polymersomes provided pores for the diffusion of the hydrophilic hymecromone-glucuronide conjugate to the compartment inside where the encapsulated β-glucuronidase catalyzed its conversion to hymecromone. Our system successfully produced hymecromone from its glucuronide conjugate in both phosphate buffered solution and cell culture medium. CNCs were non-cytotoxic when incubated with HepG2 cells. After being taken up by cells, CNCs produced the drug in situ over 24 hours. Such catalytic platforms, which locally revert a drug metabolite into its active form, open new avenues in the design of therapeutics that aim at prolonging the residence time of a drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Korpidou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Viviana Maffeis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058, Basel, Switzerland. .,NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1095, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ionel Adrian Dinu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058, Basel, Switzerland. .,NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1095, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cora-Ann Schoenenberger
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058, Basel, Switzerland. .,NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1095, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang P Meier
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058, Basel, Switzerland. .,NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1095, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia G Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058, Basel, Switzerland. .,NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1095, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
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12
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Shaukat A, Anaya‐Plaza E, Beyeh NK, Kostiainen MA. Simultaneous Organic and Inorganic Host‐Guest Chemistry within Pillararene‐Protein Cage Frameworks. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202104341. [PMID: 35043998 PMCID: PMC9305414 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202104341] [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: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Supramolecular self‐assembly of biomolecules provides a powerful bottom‐up strategy to build functional nanostructures and materials. Among the different biomacromolecules, protein cages offer various advantages including uniform size, versatility, multi‐modularity, and high stability. Additionally, protein cage crystals present confined microenvironments with well‐defined dimensions. On the other hand, molecular hosts, such as cyclophanes, possess a defined cavity size and selective recognition of guest molecules. However, the successful combination of macrocycles and protein cages to achieve functional co‐crystals has remained limited. In this study, we demonstrate electrostatic binding between cationic pillar[5]arenes and (apo)ferritin cages that results in porous and crystalline frameworks. The electrostatically assembled crystals present a face‐centered cubic (FCC) lattice and have been characterized by means of small‐angle X‐ray scattering and cryo‐TEM. These hierarchical structures result in a multiadsorbent framework capable of hosting both organic and inorganic pollutants, such as dyes and toxic metals, with potential application in water‐remediation technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Shaukat
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Aalto University 02150 Espoo Finland
| | - Eduardo Anaya‐Plaza
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Aalto University 02150 Espoo Finland
| | - Ngong Kodiah Beyeh
- Department of Chemistry Oakland University 146 Library Drive Rochester MI 48309-4479 USA
| | - Mauri A. Kostiainen
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Aalto University 02150 Espoo Finland
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13
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Jiang S, Caire da Silva L, Ivanov T, Mottola M, Landfester K. Synthetic Silica Nano‐Organelles for Regulation of Cascade Reactions in Multi‐Compartmentalized Systems. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202113784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Jiang
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research Ackermannweg 10 55128 Mainz Germany
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs Chinese Ministry of Education School of Medicine and Pharmacy Ocean University of China Qingdao 266003 China
| | | | - Tsvetomir Ivanov
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research Ackermannweg 10 55128 Mainz Germany
| | - Milagro Mottola
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (IIBYT) Av. Vélez Sarsfield 1611, 5016 Córdoba Argentina
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14
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Biocatalytic self-assembled synthetic vesicles and coacervates: From single compartment to artificial cells. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 299:102566. [PMID: 34864354 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2021.102566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Compartmentalization is an intrinsic feature of living cells that allows spatiotemporal control over the biochemical pathways expressed in them. Over the years, a library of compartmentalized systems has been generated, which includes nano to micrometer sized biomimetic vesicles derived from lipids, amphiphilic block copolymers, peptides, and nanoparticles. Biocatalytic vesicles have been developed using a simple bag containing enzyme design of liposomes to multienzymes immobilized multi-vesicular compartments for artificial cell generation. Additionally, enzymes were also entrapped in membrane-less coacervate droplets to mimic the cytoplasmic macromolecular crowding mechanisms. Here, we have discussed different types of single and multicompartment systems, emphasizing their recent developments as biocatalytic self-assembled structures using recent examples. Importantly, we have summarized the strategies in the development of the self-assembled structure to improvise their adaptivity and flexibility for enzyme immobilization. Finally, we have presented the use of biocatalytic assemblies in mimicking different aspects of living cells, which further carves the path for the engineering of a minimal cell.
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15
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Jiang S, Caire da Silva L, Ivanov T, Mottola M, Landfester K. Synthetic Silica Nano-Organelles for Regulation of Cascade Reactions in Multi-Compartmentalized Systems. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 61:e202113784. [PMID: 34779553 PMCID: PMC9306467 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202113784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In eukaryotic cells, enzymes are compartmentalized into specific organelles so that different reactions and processes can be performed efficiently and with a high degree of control. In this work, we show that these features can be artificially emulated in robust synthetic organelles constructed using an enzyme co-compartmentalization strategy. We describe an in-situ encapsulation approach that allows enzymes to be loaded into silica nanoreactors in well-defined compositions. The nanoreactors can be combined into integrated systems to produce a desired reaction outcome. We used the selective enzyme co-compartmentalization and nanoreactor integration to regulate competitive cascade reactions and to modulate the kinetics of sequential reactions involving multiple nanoreactors. Furthermore, we show that the nanoreactors can be efficiently loaded into giant polymer vesicles, resulting in multi-compartmentalized microreactors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Jiang
- Max-Planck-Institut fur Polymerforschung, Physical Chemistry of Polymers, GEORGIA
| | - Lucas Caire da Silva
- Max-Planck-Institut fur Polymerforschung, Physical Chemistry of Polymers, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, GERMANY
| | - Tsvetomir Ivanov
- Max-Planck-Institut fur Polymerforschung, Physical Chemistry of Polymers, GERMANY
| | - Milagro Mottola
- Max-Planck-Institut fur Polymerforschung, Physical Chemistry of Polymers, GERMANY
| | - Katharina Landfester
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Dept. Physical Chemistry of Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, GERMANY
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16
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Maffeis V, Belluati A, Craciun I, Wu D, Novak S, Schoenenberger CA, Palivan CG. Clustering of catalytic nanocompartments for enhancing an extracellular non-native cascade reaction. Chem Sci 2021; 12:12274-12285. [PMID: 34603657 PMCID: PMC8480338 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc04267j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Compartmentalization is fundamental in nature, where the spatial segregation of biochemical reactions within and between cells ensures optimal conditions for the regulation of cascade reactions. While the distance between compartments or their interaction are essential parameters supporting the efficiency of bio-reactions, so far they have not been exploited to regulate cascade reactions between bioinspired catalytic nanocompartments. Here, we generate individual catalytic nanocompartments (CNCs) by encapsulating within polymersomes or attaching to their surface enzymes involved in a cascade reaction and then, tether the polymersomes together into clusters. By conjugating complementary DNA strands to the polymersomes' surface, DNA hybridization drove the clusterization process of enzyme-loaded polymersomes and controlled the distance between the respective catalytic nanocompartments. Owing to the close proximity of CNCs within clusters and the overall stability of the cluster architecture, the cascade reaction between spatially segregated enzymes was significantly more efficient than when the catalytic nanocompartments were not linked together by DNA duplexes. Additionally, residual DNA single strands that were not engaged in clustering, allowed for an interaction of the clusters with the cell surface as evidenced by A549 cells, where clusters decorating the surface endowed the cells with a non-native enzymatic cascade. The self-organization into clusters of catalytic nanocompartments confining different enzymes of a cascade reaction allows for a distance control of the reaction spaces which opens new avenues for highly efficient applications in domains such as catalysis or nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Maffeis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland .,NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering BPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24a CH-4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Andrea Belluati
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Ioana Craciun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Dalin Wu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Samantha Novak
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Cora-Ann Schoenenberger
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland .,NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering BPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24a CH-4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Cornelia G Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland .,NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering BPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24a CH-4058 Basel Switzerland
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17
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Wehr R, Dos Santos EC, Muthwill MS, Chimisso V, Gaitzsch J, Meier W. Fully amorphous atactic and isotactic block copolymers and their self-assembly into nano- and microscopic vesicles. Polym Chem 2021; 12:5377-5389. [PMID: 34603516 PMCID: PMC8477912 DOI: 10.1039/d1py00952d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The introduction of chirality into aqueous self-assemblies by employing isotactic block copolymers (BCPs) is an emerging field of interest as it promises special membrane properties of polymersomes not accessible by atactic BCPs. However, isotactic BCPs typically exhibit crystalline behaviour, inducing high membrane stiffness and limiting their applicability in systems involving membrane proteins or sensitive cargo. In this study, an isotactic yet fully amorphous BCP is introduced which overcomes these limitations. Three BCPs composed of poly(butylene oxide)-block-poly(glycidol) (PBO-b-PG), differing solely in their tacticities (R/S, R and S), were synthesised and characterised regarding their structural, optical and thermal properties. Their self-assembly into homogenous phases of nanoscopic polymersomes (referred to as small unilamellar vesicles, SUVs) was analysed, revealing stability differences between SUVs composed of the different BCPs. Additionally, microscopic giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) were prepared by double emulsion microfluidics. Only the atactic BCP formed GUVs which were stable over several hours, whereas GUVs composed of isotactic BCPs ruptured within several minutes after formation. The ability of atactic PBO-b-PG to form microreactors was elucidated by reconstituting the membrane protein OmpF in the GUV membrane by microfluidics and performing an enzyme reaction inside its lumen. The system presented here serves as platform to design versatile vesicles with flexible membranes composed of atactic or isotactic BCPs. Hence, they allow for the introduction of chirality into nano- or microreactors which is a yet unstudied field and could enable special biotechonological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Wehr
- University of Basel, Department of Chemistry Mattenstrasse 24a BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Elena C Dos Santos
- University of Basel, Department of Chemistry Mattenstrasse 24a BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Moritz S Muthwill
- University of Basel, Department of Chemistry Mattenstrasse 24a BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Vittoria Chimisso
- University of Basel, Department of Chemistry Mattenstrasse 24a BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Jens Gaitzsch
- University of Basel, Department of Chemistry Mattenstrasse 24a BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V. Hohe Strasse 6 01069 Dresden Germany
| | - Wolfgang Meier
- University of Basel, Department of Chemistry Mattenstrasse 24a BPR 1096 4058 Basel Switzerland
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18
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Oerlemans RAJF, Timmermans SBPE, van Hest JCM. Artificial Organelles: Towards Adding or Restoring Intracellular Activity. Chembiochem 2021; 22:2051-2078. [PMID: 33450141 PMCID: PMC8252369 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Compartmentalization is one of the main characteristics that define living systems. Creating a physically separated microenvironment allows nature a better control over biological processes, as is clearly specified by the role of organelles in living cells. Inspired by this phenomenon, researchers have developed a range of different approaches to create artificial organelles: compartments with catalytic activity that add new function to living cells. In this review we will discuss three complementary lines of investigation. First, orthogonal chemistry approaches are discussed, which are based on the incorporation of catalytically active transition metal-containing nanoparticles in living cells. The second approach involves the use of premade hybrid nanoreactors, which show transient function when taken up by living cells. The third approach utilizes mostly genetic engineering methods to create bio-based structures that can be ultimately integrated with the cell's genome to make them constitutively active. The current state of the art and the scope and limitations of the field will be highlighted with selected examples from the three approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy A. J. F. Oerlemans
- Bio-Organic Chemistry Research GroupInstitute for Complex Molecular SystemsEindhoven University of TechnologyP.O. Box 513 (STO3.41)5600 MBEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Suzanne B. P. E. Timmermans
- Bio-Organic Chemistry Research GroupInstitute for Complex Molecular SystemsEindhoven University of TechnologyP.O. Box 513 (STO3.41)5600 MBEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Jan C. M. van Hest
- Bio-Organic Chemistry Research GroupInstitute for Complex Molecular SystemsEindhoven University of TechnologyP.O. Box 513 (STO3.41)5600 MBEindhovenThe Netherlands
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19
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Di Leone S, Vallapurackal J, Yorulmaz Avsar S, Kyropolou M, Ward TR, Palivan CG, Meier W. Expanding the Potential of the Solvent-Assisted Method to Create Bio-Interfaces from Amphiphilic Block Copolymers. Biomacromolecules 2021; 22:3005-3016. [PMID: 34105950 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c00424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Artificial membranes, as materials with biomimetic properties, can be applied in various fields, such as drug screening or bio-sensing. The solvent-assisted method (SA) represents a straightforward method to prepare lipid solid-supported membranes. It overcomes the main limitations of established membrane preparation methods, such as Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) or vesicle fusion. However, it has not yet been applied to create artificial membranes based on amphiphilic block copolymers, despite their enhanced mechanical stability compared to lipid-based membranes and bio-compatible properties. Here, we applied the SA method on different amphiphilic di- and triblock poly(dimethylsiloxane)-block-poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) (PDMS-b-PMOXA) copolymers and optimized the conditions to prepare artificial membranes on a solid support. The real-time membrane formation, the morphology, and the mechanical properties have been evaluated by a combination of atomic force microscopy and quartz crystal microbalance. Then, selected biomolecules including complementary DNA strands and an artificial deallylase metalloenzyme (ADAse) were incorporated into these membranes relying on the biotin-streptavidin technology. DNA strands served to establish the capability of these synthetic membranes to interact with biomolecules by preserving their correct conformation. The catalytic activity of the ADAse following its membrane anchoring induced the functionality of the biomimetic platform. Polymer membranes on solid support as prepared by the SA method open new opportunities for the creation of artificial membranes with tailored biomimetic properties and functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Di Leone
- Chemistry Department, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.,School of Life Sciences, Institute for Chemistry and Bioanalytics, University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW), Grundenstrasse 40, 4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Jaicy Vallapurackal
- Chemistry Department, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Saziye Yorulmaz Avsar
- Chemistry Department, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Myrto Kyropolou
- Chemistry Department, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas R Ward
- Chemistry Department, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia G Palivan
- Chemistry Department, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Meier
- Chemistry Department, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
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20
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Li X, Zhao X, Lv R, Hao L, Huo F, Yao X. Polymeric Nanoreactors as Emerging Nanoplatforms for Cancer Precise Nanomedicine. Macromol Biosci 2021; 21:e2000424. [PMID: 33811465 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202000424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
How to precisely detect and effectively cure cancer which is defined as precise nanomedicine has drawn great attention worldwide. Polymeric nanoreactors which can in situ catalyze inert species into activated ones, can greatly increase imaging quality and enhance therapeutic effects along with decreased background interference and reduced serious side effects. After a brief introduction, the design and preparation of polymeric nanoreactors are discussed from the following aspects, that is, solvent-switch, pH-tuning, film rehydration, hard template, electrostatic interaction, and polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA). Subsequently, the biomedical applications of these nanoreactors in the fields of cancer imaging, cancer therapy, and cancer theranostics are highlighted. The last but not least, conclusions and future perspectives about polymeric nanoreactors are given. It is believed that polymeric nanoreactors can bring a great opportunity for future fabrication and clinical translation of precise nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Xiaopeng Zhao
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Runkai Lv
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Linhui Hao
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Fengwei Huo
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Xikuang Yao
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, China
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21
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Miller A, Pearce AK, Foster JC, O’Reilly RK. Probing and Tuning the Permeability of Polymersomes. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2021; 7:30-38. [PMID: 33532567 PMCID: PMC7844851 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.0c01196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Polymersomes are a class of synthetic vesicles composed of a polymer membrane surrounding an aqueous inner cavity. In addition to their overall size, the thickness and composition of polymersome membranes determine the range of potential applications in which they can be employed. While synthetic polymer chemists have made great strides in controlling polymersome membrane parameters, measurement of their permeability to various analytes including gases, ions, organic molecules, and macromolecules remains a significant challenge. In this Outlook, we compare the general methods that have been developed to quantify polymersome membrane permeability, focusing in particular on their capability to accurately measure analyte flux. In addition, we briefly highlight strategies to control membrane permeability. Based on these learnings, we propose a set of criteria for designing future methods of quantifying membrane permeability such that the passage of a variety of molecules into and out of their lumens can be better understood.
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22
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Dichiarante V, Pigliacelli C, Metrangolo P, Baldelli Bombelli F. Confined space design by nanoparticle self-assembly. Chem Sci 2020; 12:1632-1646. [PMID: 34163923 PMCID: PMC8179300 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc05697a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanoparticle (NP) self-assembly has led to the fabrication of an array of functional nanoscale systems, having diverse architectures and functionalities. In this perspective, we discuss the design and application of NP suprastructures (SPs) characterized by nanoconfined compartments in their self-assembled framework, providing an overview about SP synthetic strategies reported to date and the role of their confined nanocavities in applications in several high-end fields. We also set to give our contribution towards the formation of more advanced nanocompartmentalized SPs able to work in dynamic manners, discussing the opportunities of further advances in NP self-assembly and SP research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Dichiarante
- Laboratory of Supramolecular and Bio-Nanomaterials (SupraBioNanoLab), Department of Chemistry, Materials, and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano Via Luigi Mancinelli 7 20131 Milan Italy
| | - Claudia Pigliacelli
- Laboratory of Supramolecular and Bio-Nanomaterials (SupraBioNanoLab), Department of Chemistry, Materials, and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano Via Luigi Mancinelli 7 20131 Milan Italy
| | - Pierangelo Metrangolo
- Laboratory of Supramolecular and Bio-Nanomaterials (SupraBioNanoLab), Department of Chemistry, Materials, and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano Via Luigi Mancinelli 7 20131 Milan Italy
| | - Francesca Baldelli Bombelli
- Laboratory of Supramolecular and Bio-Nanomaterials (SupraBioNanoLab), Department of Chemistry, Materials, and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano Via Luigi Mancinelli 7 20131 Milan Italy
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23
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Qian X, Nymann Westensee I, Brodszkij E, Städler B. Cell mimicry as a bottom-up strategy for hierarchical engineering of nature-inspired entities. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 13:e1683. [PMID: 33205632 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Artificial biology is an emerging concept that aims to design and engineer the structure and function of natural cells, organelles, or biomolecules with a combination of biological and abiotic building blocks. Cell mimicry focuses on concepts that have the potential to be integrated with mammalian cells and tissue. In this feature article, we will emphasize the advancements in the past 3-4 years (2017-present) that are dedicated to artificial enzymes, artificial organelles, and artificial mammalian cells. Each aspect will be briefly introduced, followed by highlighting efforts that considered key properties of the different mimics. Finally, the current challenges and opportunities will be outlined. This article is categorized under: Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Qian
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Edit Brodszkij
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Brigitte Städler
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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24
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Liu Z, Zhou W, Qi C, Kong T. Interface Engineering in Multiphase Systems toward Synthetic Cells and Organelles: From Soft Matter Fundamentals to Biomedical Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e2002932. [PMID: 32954548 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202002932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cells have a major role in gaining insight into the complex biological processes of living cells; they also give rise to a range of emerging applications from gene delivery to enzymatic nanoreactors. Living cells rely on compartmentalization to orchestrate reaction networks for specialized and coordinated functions. Principally, the compartmentalization has been an essential engineering theme in constructing cell-mimicking systems. Here, efforts to engineer liquid-liquid interfaces of multiphase systems into membrane-bounded and membraneless compartments, which include lipid vesicles, polymer vesicles, colloidosomes, hybrids, and coacervate droplets, are summarized. Examples are provided of how these compartments are designed to imitate biological behaviors or machinery, including molecule trafficking, growth, fusion, energy conversion, intercellular communication, and adaptivity. Subsequently, the state-of-art applications of these cell-inspired synthetic compartments are discussed. Apart from being simplified and cell models for bridging the gap between nonliving matter and cellular life, synthetic compartments also are utilized as intracellular delivery vehicles for nuclei acids and nanoreactors for biochemical synthesis. Finally, key challenges and future directions for achieving the full potential of synthetic cells are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Liu
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
| | - Wen Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
| | - Cheng Qi
- College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Tiantian Kong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
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25
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Belluati A, Craciun I, Palivan CG. Bioactive Catalytic Nanocompartments Integrated into Cell Physiology and Their Amplification of a Native Signaling Cascade. ACS NANO 2020; 14:12101-12112. [PMID: 32869973 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c05574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Bioactive nanomaterials have the potential to overcome the limitations of classical pharmacological approaches by taking advantage of native pathways to influence cell behavior, interacting with them and eliciting responses. Herein, we propose a cascade system mediated by two catalytic nanocompartments (CNC) with biological activity. Activated by nitric oxide (NO) produced by inducible nitric oxidase synthase (iNOS), soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) produces cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a second messenger that modulates a broad range of physiological functions. As alterations in cGMP signaling are implicated in a multitude of pathologies, its signaling cascade represents a viable target for therapeutic intervention. Following along this line, we encapsulated iNOS and sGC in two separate polymeric compartments that function in unison to produce NO and cGMP. Their action was tested in vitro by monitoring the derived changes in cytoplasmic calcium concentrations of HeLa and differentiated C2C12 myocytes, where the produced second messenger influenced the cellular homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Belluati
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ioana Craciun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia G Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
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26
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Rodriguez-Abetxuko A, Sánchez-deAlcázar D, Muñumer P, Beloqui A. Tunable Polymeric Scaffolds for Enzyme Immobilization. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:830. [PMID: 32850710 PMCID: PMC7406678 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of methodologies for the immobilization of enzymes using polymeric supports is continuously growing due to the developments in the fields of biotechnology, polymer chemistry, and nanotechnology in the last years. Despite being excellent catalysts, enzymes are very sensitive molecules and can undergo denaturation beyond their natural environment. For overcoming this issue, polymer chemistry offers a wealth of opportunities for the successful combination of enzymes with versatile natural or synthetic polymers. The fabrication of functional, stable, and robust biocatalytic hybrid materials (nanoparticles, capsules, hydrogels, or films) has been proven advantageous for several applications such as biomedicine, organic synthesis, biosensing, and bioremediation. In this review, supported with recent examples of enzyme-protein hybrids, we provide an overview of the methods used to combine both macromolecules, as well as the future directions and the main challenges that are currently being tackled in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pablo Muñumer
- PolyZymes group, POLYMAT and Department of Applied Chemistry (UPV/EHU), San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Ana Beloqui
- PolyZymes group, POLYMAT and Department of Applied Chemistry (UPV/EHU), San Sebastián, Spain
- Department of Applied Chemistry, University of the Basque Country, San Sebastián, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Bilbao, Spain
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27
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Brodszkij E, Westensee IN, Bertelsen M, Gal N, Boesen T, Städler B. Polymer-Lipid Hybrid Vesicles and Their Interaction with HepG2 Cells. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2020; 16:e1906493. [PMID: 32468702 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201906493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Polymer-lipid hybrid vesicles are an emerging type of nano-assemblies that show potential as artificial organelles among others. Phospholipids and poly(cholesteryl methacrylate)-block-poly(methionine methacryloyloxyethyl ester (METMA)-random-2-carboxyethyl acrylate (CEA)) labeled with a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) reporter pair are used for the assembly of small and giant hybrid vesicles with homogenous distribution of both building blocks in the membrane as confirmed by the FRET effect. These hybrid vesicles have no inherent cytotoxicity when incubated with HepG2 cells up to 1.1 × 1011 hybrid vesicles per mL, and they are internalized by the cells. In contrast to the fluorescent signal originating from the block copolymer, the fluorescent signal coming from the lipids is barely detectable in cells incubated with hybrid vesicles for 6 h followed by 24 h in cell media, suggesting that the two building blocks have a different intracellular fate. These findings provide important insight into the design criteria of artificial organelles with potential structural integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edit Brodszkij
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
| | - Isabella N Westensee
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
| | - Mathias Bertelsen
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
| | - Noga Gal
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
| | - Thomas Boesen
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
| | - Brigitte Städler
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
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28
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Meyer CE, Liu J, Craciun I, Wu D, Wang H, Xie M, Fussenegger M, Palivan CG. Segregated Nanocompartments Containing Therapeutic Enzymes and Imaging Compounds within DNA-Zipped Polymersome Clusters for Advanced Nanotheranostic Platform. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2020; 16:e1906492. [PMID: 32130785 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201906492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Revised: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Nanotheranostics is an emerging field that brings together nanoscale-engineered materials with biological systems providing a combination of therapeutic and diagnostic strategies. However, current theranostic nanoplatforms have serious limitations, mainly due to a mismatch between the physical properties of the selected nanomaterials and their functionalization ease, loading ability, or overall compatibility with bioactive molecules. Herein, a nanotheranostic system is proposed based on nanocompartment clusters composed of two different polymersomes linked together by DNA. Careful design and procedure optimization result in clusters segregating the therapeutic enzyme human Dopa decarboxylase (DDC) and fluorescent probes for the detection unit in distinct but colocalized nanocompartments. The diagnostic compartment provides a twofold function: trackability via dye loading as the imaging component and the ability to attach the cluster construct to the surface of cells. The therapeutic compartment, loaded with active DDC, triggers the cellular expression of a secreted reporter enzyme via production of dopamine and activation of dopaminergic receptors implicated in atherosclerosis. This two-compartment nanotheranostic platform is expected to provide the basis of a new treatment strategy for atherosclerosis, to expand versatility and diversify the types of utilizable active molecules, and thus by extension expand the breadth of attainable applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire E Meyer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, Basel, 4002, Switzerland
| | - Juan Liu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, Basel, 4002, Switzerland
| | - Ioana Craciun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, Basel, 4002, Switzerland
| | - Dalin Wu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, Basel, 4002, Switzerland
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Biosystems Science Engineering, ETHZ, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Mingqi Xie
- Department of Biosystems Science Engineering, ETHZ, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science Engineering, ETHZ, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia G Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, Basel, 4002, Switzerland
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29
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Meyer CE, Abram SL, Craciun I, Palivan CG. Biomolecule–polymer hybrid compartments: combining the best of both worlds. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2020; 22:11197-11218. [DOI: 10.1039/d0cp00693a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in bio/polymer hybrid compartments in the quest to obtain artificial cells, biosensors and catalytic compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ioana Craciun
- Department of Chemistry
- University of Basel
- Basel
- Switzerland
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30
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Belluati A, Mikhalevich V, Yorulmaz Avsar S, Daubian D, Craciun I, Chami M, Meier WP, Palivan CG. How Do the Properties of Amphiphilic Polymer Membranes Influence the Functional Insertion of Peptide Pores? Biomacromolecules 2019; 21:701-715. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.9b01416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Belluati
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Viktoria Mikhalevich
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Saziye Yorulmaz Avsar
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Davy Daubian
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ioana Craciun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mohamed Chami
- BioEM Lab, Biozentrum, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang P. Meier
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia G. Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
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31
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Abstract
While significant advances have been achieved with non-living synthetic cells built from the bottom-up, less progress has been made with the fabrication of synthetic tissues built from such cells. Synthetic tissues comprise patterned three-dimensional (3D) collections of communicating compartments. They can include both biological and synthetic parts and may incorporate features that do more than merely mimic nature. 3D-printed materials based on droplet-interface bilayers are the basis of the most advanced synthetic tissues and are being developed for several applications, including the controlled release of therapeutic agents and the repair of damaged organs. Current goals include the ability to manipulate synthetic tissues by remote signaling and the formation of hybrid structures with fabricated or natural living tissues.
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32
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Varlas S, Foster JC, Georgiou PG, Keogh R, Husband JT, Williams DS, O'Reilly RK. Tuning the membrane permeability of polymersome nanoreactors developed by aqueous emulsion polymerization-induced self-assembly. NANOSCALE 2019; 11:12643-12654. [PMID: 31237603 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr02507c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Polymeric vesicles (or polymersomes) are hollow bilayer structures consisting of an inner aqueous compartment enclosed by a hydrophobic membrane. Vesicular constructs are ubiquitous in nature and perform a variety of functions by compartmentalizing molecules into disparate environments. For polymer chemists, the synthesis of vesicles can be readily accomplished using polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA), whereby pure vesicle morphologies can be easily accessed by tuning initial reaction parameters. Research into polymersomes is motivated primarily by the fact that hydrophilic cargo such as drug molecules, DNA, or enzymes can be encapsulated and protected from the often harsh conditions of the surrounding environment. A key factor governing the capability of vesicles to retain and protect their cargo is the permeability of their hydrophobic membrane. Herein, we demonstrate that membrane permeability of enzyme-loaded epoxy-functionalized polymersomes synthesized by aqueous emulsion PISA can be modulated via epoxide ring-opening with various diamine cross-linkers and hydrophobic primary amines. In general, membrane cross-linking or amine conjugation resulted in increased polymersome membrane thickness. Membrane modification was also found to decrease permeability in all cases, as measured by enzymatically-catalysed oxidation of an externally administered substrate. Functionalization with hydrophobic amines resulted in the largest reduction in enzyme activity, suggesting significant blocking of substrate diffusion into the central aqueous compartment. This procedurally facile strategy yields meaningful insight into how the chemical structure of the membrane influences permeability and thus could be generally applied to the formulation of polymeric vesicles for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spyridon Varlas
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Jeffrey C Foster
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Panagiotis G Georgiou
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK. and Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, CV4 7AL, Coventry, UK
| | - Robert Keogh
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK. and Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, CV4 7AL, Coventry, UK
| | | | - David S Williams
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK. and Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Swansea University, SA2 8PP, Swansea, UK
| | - Rachel K O'Reilly
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK.
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