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Kejamurthy P, Devi KTR. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and cancer immunotherapy by aptamers: an overview. Med Oncol 2023; 41:40. [PMID: 38158454 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02267-4] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Efforts in cancer immunotherapy aim to counteract evasion mechanisms and stimulate the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells effectively. Combination therapies that target multiple aspects of immune evasion are being investigated to enhance the overall efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. PD-1 (Programmed Cell Death Protein 1), CTLA-4 (Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte Antigen 4), LAG-3 (Lymphocyte-Activation Gene 3), and TIM-3 (T Cell Immunoglobulin and Mucin Domain-Containing Protein3) are all immune checkpoint receptors that play crucial roles in regulating the immune response and maintaining self-tolerance often exploited by cancer cells to evade immune surveillance. Antibodies targeted against immune checkpoint inhibitors such as anti-PD-1 antibodies (e.g., pembrolizumab, nivolumab), anti-CTLA-4 antibodies (e.g., Ipilimumab), and experimental drugs targeting LAG-3 and TIM-3, aim to block these interactions and unleash the immune system's ability to recognise and destroy cancer cells. The US FDA has approved different categories of immune checkpoint inhibitors that have been utilised successfully in some patients with metastatic melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, head and neck cancers, and non-small lung cancer. Although several immune checkpoint inhibitor antibodies have been developed, they exhibited immune-related adverse effects, resulting in hypophysitis, diabetes, and neurological issues. These adverse effects of antibodies can be reduced by developing aptamer against the target. Aptamers offer several advantages over traditional antibodies, such as improved specificity, reduced immunogenicity, and flexible design for reduced adverse effects that specifically target and block protein-protein or receptor-ligand interactions involved in immune checkpoint pathways. The current study aims to review the function of particular immune checkpoint inhibitors along with developed aptamer-mediated antitumor cytotoxicity in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyatharcini Kejamurthy
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, College of Engineering and Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | - K T Ramya Devi
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, College of Engineering and Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India.
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Riccardi C, Pérez de Carvasal K, Platella C, Meyer A, Smietana M, Morvan F, Montesarchio D. Probing naphthalene diimide and 3-hydroxypropylphosphate as end-conjugating moieties for improved thrombin binding aptamers: Structural and biological effects. Bioorg Chem 2023; 141:106917. [PMID: 37865055 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106917] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
The limitations associated with the in vivo use of the thrombin binding aptamer (TBA or TBA15) have dramatically stimulated the search of suitable chemically modified analogues in order to discover effective and reversible inhibitors of thrombin activity. In this context, we previously proposed cyclic and pseudo-cyclic TBA analogues with improved stability that proved to be more active than the parent aptamer. Herein, we have investigated a novel library of TBA derivatives carrying naphthalene diimide (NDI) moieties at the 3'- or 5'-end. In a subset of the investigated oligonucleotides, additional 3-hydroxypropylphosphate (HPP) groups were introduced at one or both ends of the TBA sequence. Evaluation of the G-quadruplex thermal stability, serum nuclease resistance and in vitro anticoagulant activity of the new TBA analogues allowed rationalizing the effect of these appendages on the activity of the aptamer on the basis of their relative position. Notably, most of the different TBA analogues tested were more potent thrombin inhibitors than unmodified TBA. Particularly, the analogue carrying an NDI group at the 5'-end and an HPP group at the 3'-end, named N-TBA-p, exhibited enhanced G-quadruplex thermal stability (ΔTm + 14° C) and ca. 10-fold improved nuclease resistance in serum compared to the native aptamer. N-TBA-p also induced prolonged and dose-dependent clotting times, showing a ca. 11-fold higher anticoagulant activity compared to unmodified TBA, as determined by spectroscopic methods. Overall, N-TBA-p proved to be in vitro a more efficient thrombin inhibitor than all the best ones previously investigated in our group. Its interesting features, associated with its easy preparation, make it a very promising candidate for future in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Kévan Pérez de Carvasal
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, 34095 Montpellier, France
| | - Chiara Platella
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Albert Meyer
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, 34095 Montpellier, France
| | - Michael Smietana
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, 34095 Montpellier, France
| | - François Morvan
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, 34095 Montpellier, France.
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy.
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Mao X, Zhang X, Chao Z, Qiu D, Wei S, Luo R, Chen D, Zhang Y, Chen Y, Yang Y, Monchaud D, Ju H, Mergny JL, Lei J, Zhou J. A Versatile G-Quadruplex (G4)-Coated Upconverted Metal-Organic Framework for Hypoxic Tumor Therapy. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300561. [PMID: 37402245 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Given the complexity of the tumor microenvironment, multiple strategies are being explored to tackle hypoxic tumors. The most efficient strategies combine several therapeutic modalities and typically requires the development of multifunctional nanocomposites through sophisticated synthetic procedures. Herein, the G-quadruplex (G4)-forming sequence AS1411-A (d[(G2 T)4 TG(TG2 )4 A]) is used for both its anti-tumor and biocatalytic properties when combined with hemin, increasing the production of O2 ca. two-fold as compared to the parent AS1411 sequence. The AS1411-A/hemin complex (GH) is grafted on the surface and pores of a core-shell upconverted metal-organic framework (UMOF) to generate a UMGH nanoplatform. Compared with UMOF, UMGH exhibits enhanced colloidal stability, increased tumor cell targeting and improved O2 production (8.5-fold) in situ. When irradiated by near-infrared (NIR) light, the UMGH antitumor properties are bolstered by photodynamic therapy (PDT), thanks to its ability to convert O2 into singlet oxygen (1 O2 ). Combined with the antiproliferative activity of AS1411-A, this novel approach lays the foundation for a new type of G4-based nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanxiang Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Xiaobo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Zhicong Chao
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Dehui Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Shijiong Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Rengan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Desheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Yue Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Yun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Yuanjiao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - David Monchaud
- Institut de Chimie Moléculaire (ICMUB), CNRS UMR6302, uB, Dijon, 21078, France
| | - Huangxian Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Jean-Louis Mergny
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
- Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences (LOB), Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, 91120, France
| | - Jianping Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Jun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
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Van den Avont A, Sharma-Walia N. Anti-nucleolin aptamer AS1411: an advancing therapeutic. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1217769. [PMID: 37808518 PMCID: PMC10551449 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1217769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted therapy is highly desirable, as it allows for selective cytotoxicity on diseased cells without off-target side effects. Nucleolin is a remarkable target for cancer therapy given its high abundance, selective presence on the plasma membrane, and multifaceted influence on the initiation and progression of cancer. Nucleolin is a protein overexpressed on the cell membrane in many tumors and serves as a binding protein for several ligands implicated in angiogenesis and tumorigenesis. Nucleolin is present in the cytoplasm, nucleoplasm, and nucleolus and is used by selected pathogens for cell entry. AS1411 is a guanosine-rich oligonucleotide aptamer that binds nucleolin and is internalized in the tumor cells. AS1411 is well tolerated at therapeutic doses and localizes to tumor cells overexpressing nucleolin. AS1411 has a good safety profile with efficacy in relapsed acute myeloid leukemia and renal cell carcinoma producing mild or moderate side effects. The promising potential of AS1411 is its ability to be conjugated to drugs and nanoparticles. When a drug is bound to AS1411, the drug will localize to tumor cells leading to targeted therapy with fewer systemic side effects than traditional practices. AS1411 can also be bound to nanoparticles capable of detecting nucleolin at concentrations far lower than lab techniques used today for cancer diagnosis. AS1411 has a promising potential to change cancer diagnoses and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Neelam Sharma-Walia
- Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
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Riccardi C, D’Aria F, Fasano D, Digilio FA, Carillo MR, Amato J, De Rosa L, Paladino S, Melone MAB, Montesarchio D, Giancola C. Truncated Analogues of a G-Quadruplex-Forming Aptamer Targeting Mutant Huntingtin: Shorter Is Better! Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012412. [PMID: 36293267 PMCID: PMC9604342 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Two analogues of the MS3 aptamer, which was previously shown to have an exquisite capability to selectively bind and modulate the activity of mutant huntingtin (mHTT), have been here designed and evaluated in their physicochemical and biological properties. Featured by a distinctive propensity to form complex G-quadruplex structures, including large multimeric aggregates, the original 36-mer MS3 has been truncated to give a 33-mer (here named MS3-33) and a 17-mer (here named MS3-17). A combined use of different techniques (UV, CD, DSC, gel electrophoresis) allowed a detailed physicochemical characterization of these novel G-quadruplex-forming aptamers, tested in vitro on SH-SY5Y cells and in vivo on a Drosophila Huntington’s disease model, in which these shorter MS3-derived oligonucleotides proved to have improved bioactivity in comparison with the parent aptamer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Federica D’Aria
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Dominga Fasano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 2nd Division of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases and InterUniversity Center for Research in Neurosciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Filomena Anna Digilio
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET), UOS Naples-CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Carillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Jussara Amato
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Laura De Rosa
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Paladino
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Mariarosa Anna Beatrice Melone
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 2nd Division of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases and InterUniversity Center for Research in Neurosciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122-6078, USA
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (D.M.); (C.G.)
| | - Concetta Giancola
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (D.M.); (C.G.)
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Navaneethgowda P, Bodke YD, Manjunatha B, Mussuvir Pasha K. Benzothiazole-Isatin Hybrids: Synthesis, Characterization, Computational and Cytotoxic Activity Studies. J Mol Struct 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2022.133517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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7
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Łasińska I, Zielińska A, Mackiewicz J, Souto EB. Basal Cell Carcinoma: Pathology, Current Clinical Treatment, and Potential Use of Lipid Nanoparticles. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2778. [PMID: 35681758 PMCID: PMC9179516 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14112778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin cancer is the most common type of carcinoma diagnosed worldwide, with significant morbidity and mortality rates among Caucasians, in particular basal cell carcinoma (BCC). The main risk factors of BCC are well-identified, and there are many chemotherapeutic drugs available for its treatment. The effectiveness of therapeutic options is governed by several factors, including the location of the tumor, its size, and the presence of metastases (although rare for BCC). However, available treatments are based on non-targeted approaches, which encounter a significant risk of systemic toxicity in several organs. Site-specific chemotherapy for BCC has been proposed via the loading of anticancer drugs into nanoparticles. Among various types of nanoparticles, in this review, we focus on potential new regimens for the treatment of BCC using classical anticancer drugs loaded into novel lipid nanoparticles. To meet patient aesthetic expectations and enhance the effectiveness of basal cell carcinoma treatment, new therapeutic topical strategies are discussed, despite a limited number of reports available in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Łasińska
- Department of Medical and Experimental Oncology, Heliodor Święcicki Clinical Hospital, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, 16/18 Grunwaldzka Street, 60-786 Poznań, Poland;
- Department of Nursing, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Zielona Góra, Energetyków Street 2, 65-417 Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Zielińska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszyńska 32, 60-479 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Jacek Mackiewicz
- Department of Medical and Experimental Oncology, Heliodor Święcicki Clinical Hospital, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, 16/18 Grunwaldzka Street, 60-786 Poznań, Poland;
- Department of Diagnostics and Cancer Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, 15 Garbary Street, 61-866 Poznań, Poland
| | - Eliana B. Souto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, nº. 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
- REQUIMTE/UCIBIO, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, nº. 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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Bağda E, Kızılyar Y, İnci ÖG, Ghaffarlou M, Barsbay M. One-pot modification of oleate-capped UCNPs with AS1411 G-quadruplex DNA in a fully aqueous medium. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2022.128675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Li P, Wang L, Sun M, Yao J, Li W, Lu W, Zhou Y, Zhang G, Hu C, Zheng W, Wei F. Binding affinity and conformation of a conjugated AS1411 aptamer at a cationic lipid bilayer interface. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2022; 24:9018-9028. [PMID: 35381056 DOI: 10.1039/d1cp05753g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Aptamers have been widely used in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. Owing to their special binding affinity toward cancer-related biomarkers, aptamers can be used for targeted drug delivery or bio-sensing/bio-imaging in various scenarios. The interfacial properties of aptamers play important roles in controlling the surface charge, recognition efficiency, and binding affinity of drug-delivering lipid-based carriers. In this research, the interfacial behaviors, such as surface orientation, molecular conformation, and adsorption kinetics of conjugated AS1411 molecules at different cationic lipid bilayer interfaces were investigated by sum frequency generation vibrational spectroscopy (SFG-VS) in situ and in real-time. It is shown that the conjugated AS1411 molecules at the DMTAP bilayer interface show a higher binding affinity but with slower binding kinetics compared to the DMDAP bilayer interface. The analysis results also reveal that the thymine residues of cholesteryl conjugated AS1411 molecules show higher conformational ordering compared to the thymine residues of the alkyl chain conjugated AS1411 molecules. These understandings provide unique molecular insight into the aptamer-lipid membrane interactions, which may help researchers to improve the efficiency and safety of aptamer-related drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penghua Li
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, & School of Optoelectronic Materials and Technology, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China.
| | - Liqun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, & School of Optoelectronic Materials and Technology, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China.
| | - Meng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, & School of Optoelectronic Materials and Technology, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China.
| | - Jiyuan Yao
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, & School of Optoelectronic Materials and Technology, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China.
| | - Wenhui Li
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, & School of Optoelectronic Materials and Technology, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China. .,Institution for Interdisciplinary Research, Jianghan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430056, China
| | - Wangting Lu
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, & School of Optoelectronic Materials and Technology, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China. .,Institution for Interdisciplinary Research, Jianghan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430056, China
| | - Youhua Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, & School of Optoelectronic Materials and Technology, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China.
| | - Geng Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, No. 1, Shizishan Street, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Chenglong Hu
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, & School of Optoelectronic Materials and Technology, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China.
| | - Wanquan Zheng
- Institution for Interdisciplinary Research, Jianghan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430056, China.,Institut des Sciences Moléculaires d'Orsay, Université Paris-Sud, 91405 Orsay Cedex, France
| | - Feng Wei
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, & School of Optoelectronic Materials and Technology, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China. .,Institution for Interdisciplinary Research, Jianghan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430056, China
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Antisense Oligonucleotides Conjugated with Lipophilic Compounds: Synthesis and In Vitro Evaluation of Exon Skipping in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084270. [PMID: 35457088 PMCID: PMC9032562 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Our groups previously reported that conjugation at 3′-end with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) significantly enhanced in vitro exon skipping properties of ASO 51 oligonucleotide targeting the human DMD exon 51. In this study, we designed a series of lipophilic conjugates of ASO 51, to explore the influence of the lipophilic moiety on exon skipping efficiency. To this end, three bile acids and two fatty acids have been derivatized and/or modified and conjugated to ASO 51 by automatized solid phase synthesis. We measured the melting temperature (Tm) of lipophilic conjugates to evaluate their ability to form a stable duplex with the target RNA. The exon skipping efficiency has been evaluated in myogenic cell lines first in presence of a transfection agent, then in gymnotic conditions on a selection of conjugated ASO 51. In the case of 5′-UDC-ASO 51, we also evaluated the influence of PS content on exon skipping efficiency; we found that it performed better exon skipping with full PS linkages. The more efficient compounds in terms of exon skipping were found to be 5′-UDC- and 5′,3′-bis-UDC-ASO 51.
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Tong X, Ga L, Ai J, Wang Y. Progress in cancer drug delivery based on AS1411 oriented nanomaterials. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:57. [PMID: 35101048 PMCID: PMC8805415 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01240-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted cancer therapy has become one of the most important medical methods because of the spreading and metastatic nature of cancer. Based on the introduction of AS1411 and its four-chain structure, this paper reviews the research progress in cancer detection and drug delivery systems by modifying AS1411 aptamers based on graphene, mesoporous silica, silver and gold. The application of AS1411 in cancer treatment and drug delivery and the use of AS1411 as a targeting agent for the detection of cancer markers such as nucleoli were summarized from three aspects of active targeting, passive targeting and targeted nucleic acid apharmers. Although AS1411 has been withdrawn from clinical trials, the research surrounding its structural optimization is still very popular. Further progress has been made in the modification of nanoparticles loaded with TCM extracts by AS1411.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Tong
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Science, College of Geographical Science, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry, Inner Mongolia Normal University, 81 Zhaowudalu, Hohhot, 010022, China
| | - Lu Ga
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Jinchuankaifaqu, Hohhot, 010110, China
| | - Jun Ai
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Science, College of Geographical Science, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry, Inner Mongolia Normal University, 81 Zhaowudalu, Hohhot, 010022, China.
| | - Yong Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Science, College of Geographical Science, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry, Inner Mongolia Normal University, 81 Zhaowudalu, Hohhot, 010022, China.
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13
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Riccardi C, Napolitano F, Montesarchio D, Sampaolo S, Melone MAB. Nanoparticle-Guided Brain Drug Delivery: Expanding the Therapeutic Approach to Neurodegenerative Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1897. [PMID: 34834311 PMCID: PMC8623286 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) represent a heterogeneous group of aging-related disorders featured by progressive impairment of motor and/or cognitive functions, often accompanied by psychiatric disorders. NDs are denoted as 'protein misfolding' diseases or proteinopathies, and are classified according to their known genetic mechanisms and/or the main protein involved in disease onset and progression. Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD) are included under this nosographic umbrella, sharing histopathologically salient features, including deposition of insoluble proteins, activation of glial cells, loss of neuronal cells and synaptic connectivity. To date, there are no effective cures or disease-modifying therapies for these NDs. Several compounds have not shown efficacy in clinical trials, since they generally fail to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a tightly packed layer of endothelial cells that greatly limits the brain internalization of endogenous substances. By engineering materials of a size usually within 1-100 nm, nanotechnology offers an alternative approach for promising and innovative therapeutic solutions in NDs. Nanoparticles can cross the BBB and release active molecules at target sites in the brain, minimizing side effects. This review focuses on the state-of-the-art of nanoengineered delivery systems for brain targeting in the treatment of AD, PD and HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (C.R.); (D.M.)
| | - Filomena Napolitano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 2nd Division of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases and InterUniversity Center for Research in Neurosciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, I-80131 Naples, Italy; (F.N.); (S.S.)
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (C.R.); (D.M.)
| | - Simone Sampaolo
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 2nd Division of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases and InterUniversity Center for Research in Neurosciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, I-80131 Naples, Italy; (F.N.); (S.S.)
| | - Mariarosa Anna Beatrice Melone
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 2nd Division of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases and InterUniversity Center for Research in Neurosciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, I-80131 Naples, Italy; (F.N.); (S.S.)
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122-6078, USA
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14
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An analytical study of lipid-oligonucleotide aggregation properties. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2021; 205:114327. [PMID: 34479172 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2021.114327] [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: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Lipid-oligonucleotides (LON) attract great interest as supramolecular scaffolds to improve the intracellular delivery of nucleic acids. Analytical characterization of LON assemblies is critical to formulation development, understanding in-vivo performance, as well as quality control. For this study, we selected LONs featuring different modifications on both oligonucleotide (with or without a G4 prone sequence) and lipid (mono or bis-alkyl chain covalently attached to the oligonucleotide sequence). Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and, for the first time, capillary electrophoresis (CE) were investigated to study LON supramolecular self-assemblies. Results were correlated to those obtained with conventional physico-chemical characterization techniques i.e. gel electrophoresis, dynamic light scattering, and circular dichroism. In SEC, a separation between LON monomers and micelles was achieved in 5min on a TSK-gel G3000PW column at 70°C with 100% water, as mobile phase. CE conditions were optimized using a fused-silica capillary length of 10.0cm effective length at 15°C. Different background electrolytes were tested by varying the nature and the concentration of salts added. A sodium tetraborate buffer with 75mM NaCl appeared suitable to promote LON assembly. CE offers benefits to LON micelle analysis in terms of speed of analysis, high resolution, and low quantity of sample injected. Moreover, CE provides an appropriate tool to assess the impact of media of biological relevance on LON self-assembly. In this work, the key role of lipophilic tails and the formation of tetramolecular G-quadruplexes on the stability of LON micelles was confirmed.
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15
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Pérez de Carvasal K, Riccardi C, Russo Krauss I, Cavasso D, Vasseur JJ, Smietana M, Morvan F, Montesarchio D. Charge-Transfer Interactions Stabilize G-Quadruplex-Forming Thrombin Binding Aptamers and Can Improve Their Anticoagulant Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9510. [PMID: 34502432 PMCID: PMC8430690 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In the search for optimized thrombin binding aptamers (TBAs), we herein describe the synthesis of a library of TBA analogues obtained by end-functionalization with the electron-rich 1,5-dialkoxy naphthalene (DAN) and the electron-deficient 1,8,4,5-naphthalenetetra-carboxylic diimide (NDI) moieties. Indeed, when these G-rich oligonucleotides were folded into the peculiar TBA G-quadruplex (G4) structure, effective donor-acceptor charge transfer interactions between the DAN and NDI residues attached to the extremities of the sequence were induced, providing pseudo-cyclic structures. Alternatively, insertion of NDI groups at both extremities produced TBA analogues stabilized by π-π stacking interactions. All the doubly-modified TBAs were characterized by different biophysical techniques and compared with the analogues carrying only the DAN or NDI residue and unmodified TBA. These modified TBAs exhibited higher nuclease resistance, and their G4 structures were markedly stabilized, as evidenced by increased Tm values compared to TBA. These favorable properties were also associated with improved anticoagulant activity for one DAN/NDI-modified TBA, and for one NDI/NDI-modified TBA. Our results indicated that TBA pseudo-cyclic structuring by ad hoc designed end-functionalization represents an efficient approach to improve the aptamer features, while pre-organizing and stabilizing the G4 structure but allowing sufficient flexibility to the aptamer folding, which is necessary for optimal thrombin recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kévan Pérez de Carvasal
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, University Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, 34095 Montpellier, France; (K.P.d.C.); (J.-J.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (C.R.); (I.R.K.); (D.C.)
| | - Irene Russo Krauss
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (C.R.); (I.R.K.); (D.C.)
- CSGI—Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase, Via della Lastruccia 3, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Domenico Cavasso
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (C.R.); (I.R.K.); (D.C.)
- CSGI—Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase, Via della Lastruccia 3, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Jean-Jacques Vasseur
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, University Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, 34095 Montpellier, France; (K.P.d.C.); (J.-J.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Michael Smietana
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, University Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, 34095 Montpellier, France; (K.P.d.C.); (J.-J.V.); (M.S.)
| | - François Morvan
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, University Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, 34095 Montpellier, France; (K.P.d.C.); (J.-J.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (C.R.); (I.R.K.); (D.C.)
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16
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Recent Achievements in Electrochemical and Surface Plasmon Resonance Aptasensors for Mycotoxins Detection. CHEMOSENSORS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/chemosensors9070180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites of fungi that contaminate agriculture products. Their release in the environment can cause severe damage to human health. Aptasensors are compact analytical devices that are intended for the fast and reliable detection of various species able to specifically interact with aptamers attached to the transducer surface. In this review, assembly of electrochemical and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) aptasensors are considered with emphasis on the mechanism of signal generation. Moreover, the properties of mycotoxins and the aptamers selected for their recognition are briefly considered. The analytical performance of biosensors developed within last three years makes it possible to determine mycotoxin residues in water and agriculture/food products on the levels below their maximal admissible concentrations. Requirements for the development of sample treatment and future trends in aptasensors are also discussed.
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17
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Lopes-Nunes J, Oliveira PA, Cruz C. G-Quadruplex-Based Drug Delivery Systems for Cancer Therapy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:671. [PMID: 34358097 PMCID: PMC8308530 DOI: 10.3390/ph14070671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are a class of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) with single-stranded G-rich sequences. Owing to the selectivity of some G4s, they are emerging as targeting agents to overtake side effects of several potential anticancer drugs, and delivery systems of small molecules to malignant cells, through their high affinity or complementarity to specific targets. Moreover, different systems are being used to improve their potential, such as gold nano-particles or liposomes. Thus, the present review provides relevant data about the different studies with G4s as drug delivery systems and the challenges that must be overcome in the future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica Lopes-Nunes
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal;
| | - Paula A. Oliveira
- Centre for Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Inov4Agro, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - Carla Cruz
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal;
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18
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Carvalho J, Lopes-Nunes J, Vialet B, Rosado T, Gallardo E, Vale J, Eloy C, Ferreira S, Palmeira-de-Oliveira R, Campello MPC, Paulo A, Barthélémy P, Mergny JL, Salgado GF, Queiroz JA, Ellington AD, Cruz C. Nanoaggregate-forming lipid-conjugated AS1411 aptamer as a promising tumor-targeted delivery system of anticancer agents in vitro. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2021; 36:102429. [PMID: 34174419 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2021.102429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Nanoparticles offer targeted delivery of drugs with minimal toxicity to surrounding healthy tissue and have great potential in the management of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related diseases. We synthesized lipid-modified AS1411 aptamers capable of forming nanoaggregates in solution containing Mg2+. The nanoaggregates presented suitable properties for pharmaceutical applications such as small size (100 nm), negative charge, and drug release. The nanoaggregates were loaded with acridine orange derivative C8 for its specific delivery into cervical cancer cell lines and HPV-positive tissue biopsies. This improved inhibition of HeLa proliferation and cell uptake without significantly affecting healthy cells. Finally, the nanoaggregates were incorporated in a gel formulation with promising tissue retention properties aiming at developing a local delivery strategy of the nanoaggregates in the female genital tract. Collectively, these findings suggest that the nanoformulation protocol has great potential for the delivery of both anticancer and antiviral agents, becoming a novel modality for cervical cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josué Carvalho
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Jéssica Lopes-Nunes
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Brune Vialet
- Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, INSERM, ARNA, UMR 5320, U1212, Bordeaux, France
| | - Tiago Rosado
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal; C4 - Cloud Computing Competence Centre, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, EM506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Eugenia Gallardo
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - João Vale
- Laboratório de Anatomia Patológica, Ipatimup Diagnósticos, Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Eloy
- Laboratório de Anatomia Patológica, Ipatimup Diagnósticos, Porto, Portugal; Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof Hernâni Monteiro, Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Ferreira
- C4 - Cloud Computing Competence Centre, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, EM506, Covilhã, Portugal; Labfit, HPRD - Health Products Research and Development, Lda, Edifício UBIMEDICAL, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Rita Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Labfit, HPRD - Health Products Research and Development, Lda, Edifício UBIMEDICAL, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Maria Paula Cabral Campello
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal; DECN - Departamento de Engenharia e Ciências Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António Paulo
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal; DECN - Departamento de Engenharia e Ciências Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Jean-Louis Mergny
- Institute of Biophysics of the CAS, Brno, Czech Republic; Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, France
| | - Gilmar F Salgado
- Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, INSERM, ARNA, UMR 5320, U1212, Bordeaux, France
| | - João A Queiroz
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Andrew D Ellington
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Carla Cruz
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.
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19
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Ștefan G, Hosu O, De Wael K, Lobo-Castañón MJ, Cristea C. Aptamers in biomedicine: Selection strategies and recent advances. Electrochim Acta 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2021.137994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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20
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Covalent Bi-Modular Parallel and Antiparallel G-Quadruplex DNA Nanocostructs Reduce Viability of Patient Glioma Primary Cell Cultures. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073372. [PMID: 33806042 PMCID: PMC8036578 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplex oligonucleotides (GQs) exhibit specific anti-proliferative activity in human cancer cell lines, and they can selectively inhibit the viability/proliferation of cancer cell lines vs. non-cancer ones. This ability could be translated into a cancer treatment, in particular for glioblastoma multiform (GBM), which currently has a poor prognosis and low-efficiency therapeutic treatments. A novel bi-modular GQ, bi-(AID-1-T), a twin of the previously described three-quartet AID-1-T, was designed and studied in terms of both its structure and function. A covalent conjugation of two AID-1-Ts via three thymidine link, TTT, did not interfere with its initial GQ structure. A comparison of bi-(AID-1-T) with its mono-modular AID-1-T, mono-modular two-quartet HD1, and bi-modular bi-HD1, as well as conventional two-quartet AS1411, was made. Among the five GQs studied, bi-(AID-1-T) had the highest anti-proliferative activity for the neural cancer cell line U87, while not affecting the control cell line, human embryonic fibroblasts. GQs, for the first time, were tested on several primary glioma cultures from patient surgical samples. It turned out that the sensitivity of the patient primary glioma cultures toward GQs varied, with an apparent IC50 of less than 1 μM for bi-(AID-1-T) toward the most sensitive G11 cell culture (glioma, Grade III).
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21
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Bizyaeva AA, Bunin DA, Moiseenko VL, Gambaryan AS, Balk S, Tashlitsky VN, Arutyunyan AM, Kopylov AM, Zavyalova EG. The Functional Role of Loops and Flanking Sequences of G-Quadruplex Aptamer to the Hemagglutinin of Influenza a Virus. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2409. [PMID: 33673708 PMCID: PMC7957560 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid aptamers are generally accepted as promising elements for the specific and high-affinity binding of various biomolecules. It has been shown for a number of aptamers that the complexes with several related proteins may possess a similar affinity. An outstanding example is the G-quadruplex DNA aptamer RHA0385, which binds to the hemagglutinins of various influenza A virus strains. These hemagglutinins have homologous tertiary structures but moderate-to-low amino acid sequence identities. Here, the experiment was inverted, targeting the same protein using a set of related, parallel G-quadruplexes. The 5'- and 3'-flanking sequences of RHA0385 were truncated to yield parallel G-quadruplex with three propeller loops that were 7, 1, and 1 nucleotides in length. Next, a set of minimal, parallel G-quadruplexes with three single-nucleotide loops was tested. These G-quadruplexes were characterized both structurally and functionally. All parallel G-quadruplexes had affinities for both recombinant hemagglutinin and influenza virions. In summary, the parallel G-quadruplex represents a minimal core structure with functional activity that binds influenza A hemagglutinin. The flanking sequences and loops represent additional features that can be used to modulate the affinity. Thus, the RHA0385-hemagglutinin complex serves as an excellent example of the hypothesis of a core structure that is decorated with additional recognizing elements capable of improving the binding properties of the aptamer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia A. Bizyaeva
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (D.A.B.); (V.L.M.); (V.N.T.); (A.M.K.)
| | - Dmitry A. Bunin
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (D.A.B.); (V.L.M.); (V.N.T.); (A.M.K.)
| | - Valeria L. Moiseenko
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (D.A.B.); (V.L.M.); (V.N.T.); (A.M.K.)
| | - Alexandra S. Gambaryan
- Chumakov Federal Scientific Centre for Research and Development of Immune and Biological Products RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia;
| | | | - Vadim N. Tashlitsky
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (D.A.B.); (V.L.M.); (V.N.T.); (A.M.K.)
| | - Alexander M. Arutyunyan
- Belozersky Research Institute of Physical Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Alexey M. Kopylov
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (D.A.B.); (V.L.M.); (V.N.T.); (A.M.K.)
| | - Elena G. Zavyalova
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (D.A.B.); (V.L.M.); (V.N.T.); (A.M.K.)
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22
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Riccardi C, Napolitano E, Musumeci D, Montesarchio D. Dimeric and Multimeric DNA Aptamers for Highly Effective Protein Recognition. Molecules 2020; 25:E5227. [PMID: 33182593 PMCID: PMC7698228 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25225227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Multivalent interactions frequently occur in biological systems and typically provide higher binding affinity and selectivity in target recognition than when only monovalent interactions are operative. Thus, taking inspiration by nature, bivalent or multivalent nucleic acid aptamers recognizing a specific biological target have been extensively studied in the last decades. Indeed, oligonucleotide-based aptamers are suitable building blocks for the development of highly efficient multivalent systems since they can be easily modified and assembled exploiting proper connecting linkers of different nature. Thus, substantial research efforts have been put in the construction of dimeric/multimeric versions of effective aptamers with various degrees of success in target binding affinity or therapeutic activity enhancement. The present review summarizes recent advances in the design and development of dimeric and multimeric DNA-based aptamers, including those forming G-quadruplex (G4) structures, recognizing different key proteins in relevant pathological processes. Most of the designed constructs have shown improved performance in terms of binding affinity or therapeutic activity as anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anticoagulant, and anticancer agents and their number is certainly bound to grow in the next future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (E.N.); (D.M.); (D.M.)
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 2nd Division of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases and InterUniversity Center for Research in Neurosciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, via Sergio Pansini, 5, I-80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ettore Napolitano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (E.N.); (D.M.); (D.M.)
| | - Domenica Musumeci
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (E.N.); (D.M.); (D.M.)
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimages, CNR, via Mezzocannone 16, I-80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (E.N.); (D.M.); (D.M.)
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23
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Riccardi C, Napolitano E, Platella C, Musumeci D, Melone MAB, Montesarchio D. Anti-VEGF DNA-based aptamers in cancer therapeutics and diagnostics. Med Res Rev 2020; 41:464-506. [PMID: 33038031 DOI: 10.1002/med.21737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family and its receptors play fundamental roles not only in physiological but also in pathological angiogenesis, characteristic of cancer progression. Aiming at finding putative treatments for several malignancies, various small molecules, antibodies, or protein-based drugs have been evaluated in vitro and in vivo as VEGF inhibitors, providing efficient agents approved for clinical use. Due to the high clinical importance of VEGF, also a great number of anti-VEGF nucleic acid-based aptamers-that is, oligonucleotides able to bind with high affinity and specificity a selected biological target-have been developed as promising agents in anticancer strategies. Notable research efforts have been made in optimization processes of the identified aptamers, searching for increased target affinity and/or bioactivity by exploring structural analogues of the lead compounds. This review is focused on recent studies devoted to the development of DNA-based aptamers designed to target VEGF. Their therapeutic potential as well as their significance in the construction of highly selective biosensors is here discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 2nd Division of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases and Inter-University Center for Research in Neurosciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Ettore Napolitano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Platella
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Domenica Musumeci
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Institute of Biostructures and Bioimages, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariarosa A B Melone
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 2nd Division of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases and Inter-University Center for Research in Neurosciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy.,Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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24
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Riccardi C, Napolitano E, Platella C, Musumeci D, Montesarchio D. G-quadruplex-based aptamers targeting human thrombin: Discovery, chemical modifications and antithrombotic effects. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 217:107649. [PMID: 32777331 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
First studies on thrombin-inhibiting DNA aptamers were reported in 1992, and since then a large number of anticoagulant aptamers has been discovered. TBA - also named HD1, a 15-mer G-quadruplex (G4)-forming oligonucleotide - is the best characterized thrombin binding aptamer, able to specifically recognize the protein exosite I, thus inhibiting the conversion of soluble fibrinogen into insoluble fibrin strands. Unmodified nucleic acid-based aptamers, in general, and TBA in particular, exhibit limited pharmacokinetic properties and are rapidly degraded in vivo by nucleases. In order to improve the biological performance of aptamers, a widely investigated strategy is the introduction of chemical modifications in their backbone at the level of the nucleobases, sugar moieties or phosphodiester linkages. Besides TBA, also other thrombin binding aptamers, able to adopt a well-defined G4 structure, e.g. mixed duplex/quadruplex sequences, as well as homo- and hetero-bivalent constructs, have been identified and optimized. Considering the growing need of new efficient anticoagulant agents associated with the strong therapeutic potential of these thrombin inhibitors, the research on thrombin binding aptamers is still a very hot and intriguing field. Herein, we comprehensively described the state-of-the-art knowledge on the DNA-based aptamers targeting thrombin, especially focusing on the optimized analogues obtained by chemically modifying the oligonucleotide backbone, and their biological performances in therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 2(nd) Division of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases and InterUniversity Center for Research in Neurosciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, via Sergio Pansini, 5, I-80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Ettore Napolitano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Chiara Platella
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Domenica Musumeci
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; Institute of Biostructures and Bioimages, CNR, via Mezzocannone 16, I-80134 Naples, Italy.
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy.
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25
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Russo Krauss I, Picariello A, Vitiello G, De Santis A, Koutsioubas A, Houston JE, Fragneto G, Paduano L. Interaction with Human Serum Proteins Reveals Biocompatibility of Phosphocholine-Functionalized SPIONs and Formation of Albumin-Decorated Nanoparticles. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2020; 36:8777-8791. [PMID: 32575987 PMCID: PMC8008447 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.0c01083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly exploited as diagnostic and therapeutic devices in medicine. Among them, superparamagnetic nanoparticles (SPIONs) represent very promising tools for magnetic resonance imaging, local heaters for hyperthermia, and nanoplatforms for multimodal imaging and theranostics. However, the use of NPs, including SPIONs, in medicine presents several issues: first, the encounter with the biological world and proteins in particular. Indeed, nanoparticles can suffer from protein adsorption, which can affect NP functionality and biocompatibility. In this respect, we have investigated the interaction of small SPIONs covered by an amphiphilic double layer of oleic acid/oleylamine and 1-octadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine with two abundant human plasma proteins, human serum albumin (HSA) and human transferrin. By means of spectroscopic and scattering techniques, we analyzed the effect of SPIONs on protein structure and the binding affinities, and only found strong binding in the case of HSA. In no case did SPIONs alter the protein structure significantly. We structurally characterized HSA/SPIONs complexes by means of light and neutron scattering, highlighting the formation of a monolayer of protein molecules on the NP surface. Their interaction with lipid bilayers mimicking biological membranes was investigated by means of neutron reflectivity. We show that HSA/SPIONs do not affect lipid bilayer features and could be further exploited as a nanoplatform for future applications. Overall, our findings point toward a high biocompatibility of phosphocholine-decorated SPIONs and support their use in nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Russo Krauss
- Department
of Chemical Sciences and Department of Chemical, Materials
and Production Engineering, University of
Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- CSGI,
Center for Colloid and Surface Science, Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy
| | - Alessandra Picariello
- Department
of Chemical Sciences and Department of Chemical, Materials
and Production Engineering, University of
Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vitiello
- Department
of Chemical Sciences and Department of Chemical, Materials
and Production Engineering, University of
Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- CSGI,
Center for Colloid and Surface Science, Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy
| | - Augusta De Santis
- Department
of Chemical Sciences and Department of Chemical, Materials
and Production Engineering, University of
Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- CSGI,
Center for Colloid and Surface Science, Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy
| | - Alexandros Koutsioubas
- Jülich
Centre for Neutron Science (JCNS) at Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum
(MLZ), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Lichtenbergstrasse 1, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | | | - Giovanna Fragneto
- Institut
Laue-Langevin (ILL), 71 avenue des Martyrs, BP 156, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | - Luigi Paduano
- Department
of Chemical Sciences and Department of Chemical, Materials
and Production Engineering, University of
Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- CSGI,
Center for Colloid and Surface Science, Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy
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26
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Yazdian-Robati R, Bayat P, Oroojalian F, Zargari M, Ramezani M, Taghdisi SM, Abnous K. Therapeutic applications of AS1411 aptamer, an update review. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 155:1420-1431. [PMID: 31734366 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.11.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nucleolin or C23, is one of the most abundant non-ribosomal phosphoproteins of nucleolus. However, in several cancers, nucleolin is highly expressed both intracellularly and on the cell surface. So, it is considered as a potential target for the diagnosis and cancer therapy. Targeting nucleolin by compounds such as AS1411 aptamer can reduce tumor cell growth. In this regard, interest has increased in nucleolin as a molecular target for overcoming cancer therapy challenges. This review paper addressed recent progresses in nucleolin targeting by the G-rich AS1411 aptamer in the field of cancer therapy mainly over the past three years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rezvan Yazdian-Robati
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Payam Bayat
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Oroojalian
- Department of Advanced Sciences and Technologies, School of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran; Natural Products and Medicinal Plants Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Mehryar Zargari
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ramezani
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Taghdisi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Khalil Abnous
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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27
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Ferraro MG, Piccolo M, Misso G, Maione F, Montesarchio D, Caraglia M, Paduano L, Santamaria R, Irace C. Breast Cancer Chemotherapeutic Options: A General Overview on the Preclinical Validation of a Multi-Target Ruthenium(III) Complex Lodged in Nucleolipid Nanosystems. Cells 2020; 9:E1412. [PMID: 32517101 PMCID: PMC7349411 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review we have showcased the preclinical development of original amphiphilic nanomaterials designed for ruthenium-based anticancer treatments, to be placed within the current metallodrugs approach leading over the past decade to advanced multitarget agents endowed with limited toxicity and resistance. This strategy could allow for new options for breast cancer (BC) interventions, including the triple-negative subtype (TNBC) with poor therapeutic alternatives. BC is currently the second most widespread cancer and the primary cause of cancer death in women. Hence, the availability of novel chemotherapeutic weapons is a basic requirement to fight BC subtypes. Anticancer drugs based on ruthenium are among the most explored and advanced next-generation metallotherapeutics, with NAMI-A and KP1019 as two iconic ruthenium complexes having undergone clinical trials. In addition, many nanomaterial Ru complexes have been recently conceived and developed into anticancer drugs demonstrating attractive properties. In this field, we focused on the evaluation of a Ru(III) complex-named AziRu-incorporated into a suite of both zwitterionic and cationic nucleolipid nanosystems, which proved to be very effective for the in vivo targeting of breast cancer cells (BBC). Mechanisms of action have been widely explored in the context of preclinical evaluations in vitro, highlighting a multitarget action on cell death pathways which are typically deregulated in neoplasms onset and progression. Moreover, being AziRu inspired by the well-known NAMI-A complex, information on non-nanostructured Ru-based anticancer agents have been included in a precise manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Ferraro
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.F.); (M.P.); (F.M.)
| | - Marialuisa Piccolo
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.F.); (M.P.); (F.M.)
| | - Gabriella Misso
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.M.); (M.C.)
| | - Francesco Maione
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.F.); (M.P.); (F.M.)
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cintia 421, 80126 Naples, Italy; (D.M.); (L.P.)
| | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.M.); (M.C.)
| | - Luigi Paduano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cintia 421, 80126 Naples, Italy; (D.M.); (L.P.)
| | - Rita Santamaria
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.F.); (M.P.); (F.M.)
| | - Carlo Irace
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.F.); (M.P.); (F.M.)
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Design, Synthesis and Characterization of Cyclic NU172 Analogues: A Biophysical and Biological Insight. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113860. [PMID: 32485818 PMCID: PMC7312020 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
NU172—a 26-mer oligonucleotide able to bind exosite I of human thrombin and inhibit its activity—was the first aptamer to reach Phase II clinical studies as an anticoagulant in heart disease treatments. With the aim of favoring its functional duplex-quadruplex conformation and thus improving its enzymatic stability, as well as its thrombin inhibitory activity, herein a focused set of cyclic NU172 analogues—obtained by connecting its 5′- and 3′-extremities with flexible linkers—was synthesized. Two different chemical approaches were exploited in the cyclization procedure, one based on the oxime ligation method and the other on Cu(I)-assisted azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC), affording NU172 analogues including circularizing linkers with different length and chemical nature. The resulting cyclic NU172 derivatives were characterized using several biophysical techniques (ultraviolet (UV) and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopies, gel electrophoresis) and then investigated for their serum resistance and anticoagulant activity in vitro. All the cyclic NU172 analogues showed higher thermal stability and nuclease resistance compared to unmodified NU172. These favorable properties were, however, associated with reduced—even though still significant—anticoagulant activity, suggesting that the conformational constraints introduced upon cyclization were somehow detrimental for protein recognition. These results provide useful information for the design of improved analogues of NU172 and related duplex-quadruplex structures.
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29
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Riccardi C, Musumeci D, Platella C, Gaglione R, Arciello A, Montesarchio D. Tuning the Polymorphism of the Anti-VEGF G-rich V7t1 Aptamer by Covalent Dimeric Constructs. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21061963. [PMID: 32183039 PMCID: PMC7139925 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21061963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In the optimization process of nucleic acid aptamers, increased affinity and/or activity are generally searched by exploring structural analogues of the lead compound. In many cases, promising results have been obtained by dimerization of the starting aptamer. Here we studied a focused set of covalent dimers of the G-quadruplex (G4) forming anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) V7t1 aptamer with the aim of identifying derivatives with improved properties. In the design of these covalent dimers, connecting linkers of different chemical nature, maintaining the same polarity along the strand or inverting it, have been introduced. These dimeric aptamers have been investigated using several biophysical techniques to disclose the conformational behavior, molecularity and thermal stability of the structures formed in different buffers. This in-depth biophysical characterization revealed the formation of stable G4 structures, however in some cases accompanied by alternative tridimensional arrangements. When tested for their VEGF165 binding and antiproliferative activity in comparison with V7t1, these covalent dimers showed slightly lower binding ability to the target protein but similar if not slightly higher antiproliferative activity on human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells. These results provide useful information for the design of improved dimeric aptamers based on further optimization of the linker joining the two consecutive V7t1 sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (C.R.); (D.M.); (C.P.); (R.G.); (A.A.)
| | - Domenica Musumeci
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (C.R.); (D.M.); (C.P.); (R.G.); (A.A.)
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimages (IBB), CNR, Via Mezzocannone 16, I-80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Chiara Platella
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (C.R.); (D.M.); (C.P.); (R.G.); (A.A.)
| | - Rosa Gaglione
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (C.R.); (D.M.); (C.P.); (R.G.); (A.A.)
| | - Angela Arciello
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (C.R.); (D.M.); (C.P.); (R.G.); (A.A.)
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (C.R.); (D.M.); (C.P.); (R.G.); (A.A.)
- Correspondence:
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Odeh F, Nsairat H, Alshaer W, Ismail MA, Esawi E, Qaqish B, Bawab AA, Ismail SI. Aptamers Chemistry: Chemical Modifications and Conjugation Strategies. Molecules 2019; 25:E3. [PMID: 31861277 PMCID: PMC6982925 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Soon after they were first described in 1990, aptamers were largely recognized as a new class of biological ligands that can rival antibodies in various analytical, diagnostic, and therapeutic applications. Aptamers are short single-stranded RNA or DNA oligonucleotides capable of folding into complex 3D structures, enabling them to bind to a large variety of targets ranging from small ions to an entire organism. Their high binding specificity and affinity make them comparable to antibodies, but they are superior regarding a longer shelf life, simple production and chemical modification, in addition to low toxicity and immunogenicity. In the past three decades, aptamers have been used in a plethora of therapeutics and drug delivery systems that involve innovative delivery mechanisms and carrying various types of drug cargos. However, the successful translation of aptamer research from bench to bedside has been challenged by several limitations that slow down the realization of promising aptamer applications as therapeutics at the clinical level. The main limitations include the susceptibility to degradation by nucleases, fast renal clearance, low thermal stability, and the limited functional group diversity. The solution to overcome such limitations lies in the chemistry of aptamers. The current review will focus on the recent arts of aptamer chemistry that have been evolved to refine the pharmacological properties of aptamers. Moreover, this review will analyze the advantages and disadvantages of such chemical modifications and how they impact the pharmacological properties of aptamers. Finally, this review will summarize the conjugation strategies of aptamers to nanocarriers for developing targeted drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadwa Odeh
- Faculty of Science, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (F.O.); (H.N.); (A.A.B.)
- Hamdi Mango Center for Scientific Research, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Hamdi Nsairat
- Faculty of Science, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (F.O.); (H.N.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Walhan Alshaer
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Mohammad A. Ismail
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.I.); (E.E.); (B.Q.); (S.I.I.)
| | - Ezaldeen Esawi
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.I.); (E.E.); (B.Q.); (S.I.I.)
| | - Baraa Qaqish
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.I.); (E.E.); (B.Q.); (S.I.I.)
| | - Abeer Al Bawab
- Faculty of Science, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (F.O.); (H.N.); (A.A.B.)
- Hamdi Mango Center for Scientific Research, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Said I. Ismail
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.I.); (E.E.); (B.Q.); (S.I.I.)
- Qatar Genome Project, Qatar Foundation, Doha 5825, Qatar
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31
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Moccia F, Riccardi C, Musumeci D, Leone S, Oliva R, Petraccone L, Montesarchio D. Insights into the G-rich VEGF-binding aptamer V7t1: when two G-quadruplexes are better than one! Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:8318-8331. [PMID: 31276595 PMCID: PMC6735921 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The G-quadruplex-forming VEGF-binding aptamer V7t1 was previously found to be highly polymorphic in a K+-containing solution and, to restrict its conformational preferences to a unique, well-defined form, modified nucleotides (LNA and/or UNA) were inserted in its sequence. We here report an in-depth biophysical characterization of V7t1 in a Na+-rich medium, mimicking the extracellular environment in which VEGF targeting should occur, carried out combining several techniques to analyse the conformational behaviour of the aptamer and its binding to the protein. Our results demonstrate that, in the presence of high Na+ concentrations, V7t1 behaves in a very different way if subjected or not to annealing procedures, as evidenced by native gel electrophoresis, size exclusion chromatography and dynamic light scattering analysis. Indeed, not-annealed V7t1 forms both monomeric and dimeric G-quadruplexes, while the annealed oligonucleotide is a monomeric species. Remarkably, only the dimeric aptamer efficiently binds VEGF, showing higher affinity for the protein compared to the monomeric species. These findings provide new precious information for the development of improved V7t1 analogues, allowing more efficient binding to the cancer-related protein and the design of effective biosensors or theranostic devices based on VEGF targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Moccia
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Domenica Musumeci
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy.,Institute of Biostructures and Bioimages, CNR, Via Mezzocannone 16, I-80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Serena Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosario Oliva
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi Petraccone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy.,Institute for Endocrinology and Oncology 'Gaetano Salvatore', CNR, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy
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32
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Riccardi C, Meyer A, Vasseur JJ, Russo Krauss I, Paduano L, Morvan F, Montesarchio D. Fine-tuning the properties of the thrombin binding aptamer through cyclization: Effect of the 5'-3' connecting linker on the aptamer stability and anticoagulant activity. Bioorg Chem 2019; 94:103379. [PMID: 31699393 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.103379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A small library of cyclic TBA analogues (named cycTBA I-IV), obtained by covalently connecting its 5'- and 3'-ends with flexible linkers, has been synthesized with the aim of improving its chemical and enzymatic stability, as well as its anticoagulant properties. Two chemical procedures have been exploited to achieve the desired cyclization, based on the oxime ligation method (providing cycTBA I and II) or on Cu(I)-assisted azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) protocols (for cycTBA III and IV), leading to analogues containing circularizing linkers with different chemical nature and length, overall spanning from 22 to 48 atoms. The resulting cyclic TBAs have been characterized using a variety of biophysical methods (UV, CD, gel electrophoresis, SE-HPLC analyses) and then tested for their serum resistance and anticoagulant activity under in vitro experiments. A fine-tuning of the length and flexibility of the linker allowed identifying a cyclic analogue, cycTBA II, with improved anticoagulant activity, associated with a dramatically stabilized G-quadruplex structure (ΔTm = +17 °C) and a 6.6-fold higher enzymatic resistance in serum compared to unmodified TBA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Albert Meyer
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Vasseur
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
| | - Irene Russo Krauss
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; CSGI - Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase, Via della Lastruccia 3, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino (Fi), Italy
| | - Luigi Paduano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; CSGI - Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase, Via della Lastruccia 3, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino (Fi), Italy
| | - François Morvan
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France.
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Napoli, Italy.
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Riccardi C, Musumeci D, Trifuoggi M, Irace C, Paduano L, Montesarchio D. Anticancer Ruthenium(III) Complexes and Ru(III)-Containing Nanoformulations: An Update on the Mechanism of Action and Biological Activity. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2019; 12:E146. [PMID: 31561546 PMCID: PMC6958509 DOI: 10.3390/ph12040146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The great advances in the studies on metal complexes for the treatment of different cancer forms, starting from the pioneering works on platinum derivatives, have fostered an increasingly growing interest in their properties and biomedical applications. Among the various metal-containing drugs investigated thus far, ruthenium(III) complexes have emerged for their selective cytotoxic activity in vitro and promising anticancer properties in vivo, also leading to a few candidates in advanced clinical trials. Aiming at addressing the solubility, stability and cellular uptake issues of low molecular weight Ru(III)-based compounds, some research groups have proposed the development of suitable drug delivery systems (e.g., taking advantage of nanoparticles, liposomes, etc.) able to enhance their activity compared to the naked drugs. This review highlights the unique role of Ru(III) complexes in the current panorama of anticancer agents, with particular emphasis on Ru-containing nanoformulations based on the incorporation of the Ru(III) complexes into suitable nanocarriers in order to enhance their bioavailability and pharmacokinetic properties. Preclinical evaluation of these nanoaggregates is discussed with a special focus on the investigation of their mechanism of action at a molecular level, highlighting their pharmacological potential in tumour disease models and value for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Riccardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Domenica Musumeci
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Carlo Irace
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, I-80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Luigi Paduano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Daniela Montesarchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy.
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The role of G-quadruplex structures of LIGS-generated aptamers R1.2 and R1.3 in IgM specific recognition. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 133:839-849. [PMID: 31022491 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.04.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Exploiting a variant of SELEX called "Ligand-Guided Selection" (LI-GS), we recently identified two novel truncated G-rich aptamers, called R1.2 and R1.3, specific for membrane-bound IgM (mIgM), the hallmark of B cells. Herein, the conformational behaviour of these aptamers has been analysed by multiple biophysical methods. In order to investigate their functional secondary structures, these studies have been carried out in pseudo-physiological buffers mimicking different cellular environments. Both aptamers proved to be highly polymorphic, folding into stable, unimolecular G-quadruplex structures in K+-rich buffers. In turn, in buffered solutions containing Na+/Mg2+ ions, R1.2 and R1.3 formed mainly duplex structures. Remarkably, these aptamers were able to effectively bind mIgM on B-cell lymphoma exclusively in the presence of potassium ions. These findings demonstrate the key role of G-quadruplex folding in the molecular recognition and efficient binding of R1.2 and R1.3 to mIgM expressed in lymphoma and leukemia cells, providing a precious rational basis for the design of effective aptamer-based biosensors potentially useful for the detection of cancer-relevant biomarkers.
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Bahreyni A, Ramezani M, Alibolandi M, Hassanzadeh P, Abnous K, Taghdisi SM. High affinity of AS1411 toward copper; its application in a sensitive aptasensor for copper detection. Anal Biochem 2019; 575:1-9. [PMID: 30926271 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2019.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AS1411 is a 26-mer G-rich DNA aptamer which has been broadly employed in the field of targeted drug delivery, due to its capability to bind to nucleolin protein on the surface of cancer cells. In this work, it has been shown for the first time that in addition to nucleolin, AS1411 aptamer could bind to copper ions (Cu2+) with high affinity and selectivity, affecting AS1411 usage in drug delivery systems as a targeting agent. In this study, besides the evaluations of the affinity of AS1411 to different ions and the impact of Cu2+ on targeted drug delivery employed AS1411 aptamer as a targeting agent, a simple and ultra-sensitive fluorescent aptasensor was fabricated for Cu2+ detection through applying AS1411, its complementary strand and magnetic beads coated with streptavidin. Gel Red (GR) was also used as a fluorescent dye. The fabricated aptasensor offered the possibility of condensing samples with different volumes. The detection limit of the sensor was 0.01 μM towards Cu2+ in serum samples. The efficacy of this sensor was further confirmed by comparing Cu2+ levels in serums of healthy people with patients suffering from Wilson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and Diabetes Mellitus using the proposed sensing platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Bahreyni
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ramezani
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mona Alibolandi
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Khalil Abnous
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Seyed Mohammad Taghdisi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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