Liposomalization of SN-38 as active metabolite of CPT-11

Synthesis and biological evaluation of the novel chrysin prodrug for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease treatment

Background: Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone) is a natural flavonoid that has been reported as a potential treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, extensive phase II metabolism and poor aqueous solubility led to a decrease in the chrysin concentration in the blood after oral administration, limiting its pharmacological development in vivo. Methods: In the present study, we synthesized a novel chrysin derivative prodrug (C-1) to address this issue. We introduced a hydrophilic prodrug group at the 7-position hydroxyl group, which is prone to phase II metabolism, to improve water solubility and mask the metabolic site. Further, we evaluated the ameliorative effects of C-1 on NAFLD in vitro and in vivo by NAFLD model cells and db/db mice. Results: In vitro studies indicated that C-1 has the ability to ameliorate lipid accumulation, cellular damage, and oxidative stress in NAFLD model cells. In vivo experiments showed that oral administration of C-1 at a high dose (69.3 mg/kg) effectively ameliorated hyperlipidemia and liver injury and reduced body weight and liver weight in db/db mice, in addition to alleviating insulin resistance. Proteomic analysis showed that C-1 altered the protein expression profile in the liver and particularly improved the expression of proteins associated with catabolism and metabolism. Furthermore, in our preliminary pharmacokinetic study, C-1 showed favorable pharmacokinetic properties and significantly improved the oral bioavailability of chrysin. Conclusion: Our data demonstrated that C-1 may be a promising agent for NAFLD therapy.

Gold nanorods-loaded chitosan-based nanomedicine platform enabling an effective tumor regression in vivo

The clinical utility of 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN-38) is hampered by its low water solubility and reduced bioactivity at neutral or alkaline conditions. The rational design of an effective drug delivery system that can significantly enhance the therapeutic index of SN-38 and achieve complete tumor regression still remains a challenge. Herein, chitosan-based hybrid nanoparticles system co-loading with chemotherapeutic drug SN-38 and gold nanorods (AuNRs) was engineered for effective combinational photothermal-chemotherapy. To increase the solubility of SN-38, soluble polymeric prodrug poly (l-glutamic acid)-SN38 (l-PGA-SN38) was firstly synthesized and then complexed with chitosan to form stable nanomedicine via a mild and facile way without using any organic solvent or surfactant. Upon introducing AuNRs into chitosan-based nanomedicine by coordination interaction between the amine group of chitosan and AuNRs, the hybrid nanoparticles exhibited distinct synergistic therapeutic effect compared with single chemotherapy or photothermal treatment in vitro and in vivo. Almost complete tumor regression was achieved after 21-day treatment of the developed hybrid nanoparticles and showed no recurrence for at least 60 days.

Integration of In Vitro and In Vivo Models to Predict Cellular and Tissue Dosimetry of Nanomaterials Using Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling

Nanomaterials (NMs) have been increasingly used in a number of areas, including consumer products and nanomedicine. Target tissue dosimetry is important in the evaluation of safety, efficacy, and potential toxicity of NMs. Current evaluation of NM efficacy and safety involves the time-consuming collection of pharmacokinetic and toxicity data in animals and is usually completed one material at a time. This traditional approach no longer meets the demand of the explosive growth of NM-based products. There is an emerging need to develop methods that can help design safe and effective NMs in an efficient manner. In this review article, we critically evaluate existing studies on in vivo pharmacokinetic properties, in vitro cellular uptake and release and kinetic modeling, and whole-body physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling studies of different NMs. Methods on how to simulate in vitro cellular uptake and release kinetics and how to extrapolate cellular and tissue dosimetry of NMs from in vitro to in vivo via PBPK modeling are discussed. We also share our perspectives on the current challenges and future directions of in vivo pharmacokinetic studies, in vitro cellular uptake and kinetic modeling, and whole-body PBPK modeling studies for NMs. Finally, we propose a nanomaterial in vitro to in vivo extrapolation via physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling (Nano-IVIVE-PBPK) framework for high-throughput screening of target cellular and tissue dosimetry as well as potential toxicity of different NMs in order to meet the demand of efficient evaluation of the safety, efficacy, and potential toxicity of a rapidly increasing number of NM-based products.

Hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT)-loaded PEGlated lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles for effective delivery of HCPT: QbD-based development and evaluation

Lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPNs) are promising drug delivery systems in various of disease treatment areas, particularly for cancer treatments. Here, a water-insoluble antitumor agent, hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT), was successfully incorporated into LPNs formed from polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-(methoxy(polyethylene glycol)-2000) (DSPE-PEG2000), and lecithin, by a modified single emulsification-solvent evaporation method. Quality-by-design (QbD) strategy composed of Plackett-Burman and Box-Behnken designs were applied for optimizing HCPT-LPNs with desired properties. The optimized HCPT-loaded lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (HCPT-LPNs) were on the nanoscale, with a final size of 220.9 nm, drug loading of 2.50%. HCPT-LPNs were highly stable in plasma and had pH- and drug loading-related sustained release characteristics. The in vitro cytotoxicity of HCPT-LPNs against MCF-7 and HepG2 cells showed that HCPT-LPNs had higher in vitro cytotoxicity than HCPT solution (HCPT-Sol) with reduced cell viability and IC50 values. In vivo pharmacokinetic assays demonstrated that the AUC of HCPT-LPNs was more than 3 times higher than that of HCPT-Sol after tail vein injection in SD rats. Tumor growth was significantly inhibited compared with HCPT-Sol after a single tail vein injection of HCPT-LPNs in murine LLC-GFP-luc lung cancer bearing mice at a dose of 6 mg/kg, without severe side effects. These results indicate that HCPT-LPNs are the promising drug delivery system for antitumor treatments.

Co-Delivery of Hispolon and Doxorubicin Liposomes Improves Efficacy Against Melanoma Cells

Hispolon is a small molecular weight polyphenol that has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative activities. Our recent study has demonstrated hispolon as a potent apoptosis inducer in melanoma cell lines. Doxorubicin is a broad spectrum first-line treatment for various kinds of cancers. In this study, co-delivery of doxorubicin and hispolon using a liposomal system in B16BL6 melanoma cell lines for synergistic cytotoxic effects was investigated. Liposomes were prepared using a lipid film hydration method and loaded with doxorubicin or hispolon. The formulations were characterized for particle size distribution, release profile, and encapsulation efficiency (EE). In addition, in vitro cytotoxicity, in vitro cell apoptosis, and cellular uptake were evaluated. Liposomes exhibited small particle size (mean diameter ~ 100 nm) and narrow size distribution (polydispersity index (< 0.2) and high drug EE% (> 90%). The release from liposomes showed slower release compared to free drug solution as an additional time required for the release of drug from the liposome lipid bilayer. Liposome loaded with doxorubicin or hispolon exhibited significantly higher cytotoxicity against B16BL6 melanoma cells as compared to doxorubicin solution or hispolon solution. Likewise, co-delivery of hispolon and doxorubicin liposomes showed two-fold and three-fold higher cytotoxicity, as compared to hispolon liposomes or doxorubicin liposomes, respectively. In addition, co-delivery of doxorubicin and hispolon in liposomes enhanced apoptosis more than the individual drugs in the liposome formulation. In conclusion, the co-delivery of hispolon and doxorubicin could be a promising therapeutic approach to improve clinical outcomes against melanoma.

Effect of fluoxetine at different concentrations on the adsorption behavior of Langmuir monolayers

Fluoxetine (FLX), approved for the treatment of depression and anxiety by the FDA in 2002, is an amphiphilic antidepressant. In general, amphiphilic drugs have high membrane permeability. Therefore, the interactions between these drugs and monolayers have been widely concerned. In this study, the adsorption of FLX on dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) monolayers at different concentrations and surface pressures have been investigated by pressure-area isotherms (π-A), adsorption curves, compression-expansion curves, and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Our data showed that the adsorption behavior was related to the surface pressures and FLX concentrations in the subphase. The FLX that was added in the subphase under lower surface pressure (π = 10 mN/m) was easily adsorbed on DPPC monolayers. The stability of the monolayers was strong. The adsorption of FLX on DPPC monolayers and the stability decreased when π = 20 mN/m. In addition, the adsorption behavior and stability increased with increasing FLX concentrations. The AFM images of the monolayers confirmed the results of fitted adsorption curves. This study will be critical to our understanding of the interactions between drugs and lipid monolayers.

One-step mechanochemical preparation and prominent antitumor activity of SN-38 self-micelle solid dispersion

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to overcome the clinical defects of 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN-38) and explore its characteristics and antitumor effects.

Materials and methods

An amorphous solid dispersion of SN-38 with disodium glycyrrhizin (Na₂GA) was prepared by mechanical ball milling (Na₂GA/SN-38-BM). Moreover, an untreated mixture of Na₂GA and SN-38 (Na₂GA/SN-38-UM), a pure drug SN-38, was prepared for comparison with Na₂GA/SN-38-BM. The samples were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy. Then, further in vitro and in vivo studies were performed including cell uptake, cytotoxicity, antitumor efficacy, tissue distribution, and histopathological evaluation (H&E staining).

Results

SN-38 loaded in Na₂GA was self-formed as nano-micelles in water. The particle size of nano-micelle was 69.41 nm and ζ-potential was -42.01 mV. XRD and SEM analyses showed that the ball milling transformed SN-38 crystals into amorphous form and that solubility increased by 189 times. Compared with SN-38 and Na₂GA/SN-38-UM, Na₂GA/SN-38-BM has a stronger cytotoxicity to tumor cells and exhibited a significant inhibition of tumor growth. Then, pharmacokinetic studies showed that the bioavailability of Na₂GA/SN-38-BM was about four times that of SN-38 suspension.

Conclusion

Na₂GA/SN-38-BM (69 nm, -42 mV) nanoparticles which had excellent phar-macokinetic and distribution properties can dramatically enhance the anticancer efficacy of SN-38 in vitro and in vivo, suggesting a promising formulation for efficient anticancer therapy.

Novel SN38 derivative-based liposome as anticancer prodrug: an in vitro and in vivo study

Background

Many novel drug delivery systems have been extensively studied to exploit the full therapeutic potential of SN38, which is one of the most potent antitumor analogs of camptothecins (CPTs), whose clinical application is seriously hindered by poor water solubility, low plasmatic stability, and severe toxicity, but results are always unsatisfactory.

Methods

In this study, combining the advantages of prodrug and nanotechnology, a lipophilic prodrug of SN38, SN38-PA, was developed by conjugating palmitic acid to SN38 via ester bond at C₁₀ position, and then the lipophilic prodrug was encapsulated into a long-circulating liposomal carrier by film dispersion method.

Results

The SN38-PA liposomes were characterized as follows: an average particle size of 80.13 nm, an average zeta potential of -33.53 mv, and the entrapment efficiency of 99%. Compared with CPT-11, SN38-PA liposome was more stable in close lactone form, more efficient in conversion rate to SN38, and more potent in cytotoxicity against tumor cells. Pharmacokinetic study showed that SN38-PA liposome had significantly enhanced plasma half-life (t_1/2) value of SN38 and increased area under the curve (AUC) of SN38, which was 7.5-fold higher than that of CPT-11. Biodistribution study showed that SN38-PA liposome had more active metabolite SN38 in each tissue. Finally, the pharmacodynamic study showed that SN38-PA liposome had higher antitumor effect with the antitumor inhibition rate of 1.61 times than that of CPT-11.

Conclusion

These encouraging data merit further investigation on this novel SN38-PA liposome.

A novel microfluidic liposomal formulation for the delivery of the SN-38 camptothecin: characterization and in vitro assessment of its cytotoxic effect on two tumor cell lines

PURPOSE

Irinotecan (CPT-11) and SN-38 - its active metabolite - are alkaloid-derived topoisomerase I interactive compounds widely used in various cancer therapy protocols. To solve the problems associated with the instability of their lactone ring at physiological pH and with the extreme insolubility of SN-38, the development of delivery carriers (eg, liposomes) has been considered a subject of unquestionable medical interest. This article focuses on the development of an alternative protocol to the classical lipid-film hydration procedures to obtain a pharmaceutical formulation for SN-38.

METHODS

SN-38-loaded liposomes (SN-38lip) were produced by microemulsification, without a prior lipid-film preparation step, and characterized by different methods. Formulation parameters were determined by photon correlation spectroscopy, and the SN-38 entrapment efficiency was evaluated by absorbance spectroscopy. SN-38lip was obtained as a dry, white powder by lyophilization. MTT and LDH assays were conducted to assess the cytotoxic effect of SN-38, both in liposomal (SN-38lip) and solubilized form (SN-38sol); flow cytometry was used to quantify SN-38 uptake and to analyze cell-cycle phase distribution after drug exposure.

RESULTS

Microfluidic, stable, and controlled sized, negatively charged liposomes, with high SN-38 incorporation efficiency into egg yolk phosphatidylcholine (EPC)/L-α-dioleoyl-phospathidylserine (DOPS) (9:1) vesicles (SN-38lip), were prepared. A lyophilized powder of SN-38lip, easily reconstitutable while retaining physicochemical parameters, was finally obtained. The efficacy of SN-38lip was assessed by in vitro studies with two tumor cell lines (HeLa and Caco-2) and compared with that of SN-38sol. It demonstrated the highest uptake of SN-38lip, in accordance with its highest cytotoxicity effect, in comparison with that of SN-38sol. In addition, different cell-cycle alterations were induced in both cell lines by the liposomal formulation.

CONCLUSION

The results highlight the potential usefulness of the procured SN-38 liposomal formulation and provide the basis for conducting in vivo studies that allow the development of alternative strategies for colorectal cancer treatment.

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of SN-38 nanocrystals with different particle sizes

7-Ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN-38) is a potent broad-spectrum antitumor drug derived from irinotecan hydrochloride (CPT-11). Due to its poor solubility and instability of the active lactone ring, its clinical use is significantly limited. As one of the most promising formulations for poorly water-soluble drugs, nanocrystals have attracted increasing attention. In order to solve these problems and evaluate the antitumor effect of SN-38 in vitro and in vivo, two nanocrystals with markedly different particle sizes were prepared. Dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy were used to investigate the two nanocrystals. The particle sizes of SN-38 nanocrystals A (SN-38/NCs-A) and SN-38 nanocrystals B (SN-38/NCs-B) were 229.5±1.99 and 799.2±14.44 nm, respectively. X-ray powder diffraction analysis showed that the crystalline state of SN-38 did not change in the size reduction process. An accelerated dissolution velocity of SN-38 was achieved by nanocrystals, and release rate of SN-38/NCs-A was significantly faster than that of SN-38/NCs-B. Cellular uptake, cellular cytotoxicity, pharmacokinetics, animal antitumor efficacy, and tissue distribution were subsequently examined. As a result, enhanced intracellular accumulation in HT1080 cells and cytotoxicity on different tumor cells were observed for SN-38/NCs-A compared to that for SN-38/NCs-B and solution. Besides, compared to the SN-38 solution, SN-38/NCs-A had a higher bioavailability after intravenous injection; while the bioavailability of SN-38/NCs-B was even lower than that of the SN-38 solution. SN-38/NCs-A exhibited a significant inhibition of tumor growth compared to SN-38 solution and SN-38/NCs-B in vivo. The antitumor effect of SN-38/NCs-B was stronger than SN-38 solution. The tissue distribution study in tumor-bearing mice showed that nanocrystals could markedly improve the drug accumulation in tumor tissue by the enhanced permeability and retention effect compared to SN-38 solution, and the amount of SN-38 in tumors of SN-38/NCs-A group was much more than that of SN-38/NCs-B group. In conclusion, nanocrystals dramatically enhanced the anticancer efficacy of SN-38 in vitro and in vivo, and the particle size had a significant influence on the dissolution behavior, pharmacokinetic properties, and tumor inhibition of nanocrystals.

Dual 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin conjugated phospholipid prodrug assembled liposomes with in vitro anticancer effects

7-Ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN38), as a highly active topoisomerase I inhibitor, is 200-2000-fold more cytotoxic than irinotecan (CPT-11) commercially available as Camptosar®. However, poor solubility and low stability extensively restricted its clinical utility. In this report, dual SN38 phospholipid conjugate (Di-SN38-PC) prodrug based liposomes were developed in order to compact these drawbacks. Di-SN38-PC prodrug was first synthesized by inhomogeneous conjugation of two SN38-20-O-succinic acid molecules with L-α-glycerophosphorylcholine (GPC). The assembly of the prodrug was carried out without any excipient by using thin film method. Dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cyro-TEM) characterization indicated that Di-SN38-PC can form spherical liposomes with narrow particle size (<200nm) and negatively charged surface (-21.6±3.5mV). The loading efficiency of SN38 is 65.2 wt.% after a simple calculation. In vitro release test was further performed in detail. The results demonstrated that Di-SN38-PC liposomes were stable in neutral environment but degraded in a weakly acidic condition thereby released parent drug SN38 effectively. Cellular uptake studies reflected that the liposomes could be internalized into cells more significantly than SN38. In vitro antitumor activities were finally evaluated by MTT assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, RT-PCR analysis and Western Blot. The results showed that Di-SN38-PC liposomes had a comparable cytotoxicity with SN38 against MCF-7 and HBL-100, and a selective promotion of apoptosis of tumor cells. Furthermore, a pharmacokinetics test showed that Di-SN38-PC liposomes had a longer circulating time in blood compared with the parent drug. All the results indicate that Di-SN38-PC liposomes are an effective delivery system of SN38.

The assembly of small molecule conjugate amphiphiles into a precise nanomedicine for colon cancer

A small molecule conjugate based on a traditional Chinese medicine cantharidin (CTR), which is an anhydride, and the anticancer drug camptothecin (CPT) was designed.

A multi-stimuli responsive nanoparticulate SN38 prodrug for cancer chemotherapy

Modification of drug delivery systems (DDSs) with stimuli-responsive elements could significantly increase the tumor-specific delivery of anticancer drugs.

Synthesis, characterization and targeting chemotherapy for ovarian cancer of trastuzumab-SN-38 conjugates

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), combining monoclonal antibody with high cytotoxicity chemotherapeutic drug (warhead), have been successfully applied for clinical cancer therapy. Linker technology to select and design linker connecting warhead with antibody, is critical to the success of therapeutic ADCs. In this study, three kinds of linkers were designed to connect SN-38, the bioactive metabolite of the anticancer drug irinotecan (CPT-11), which is 100-1000 times more potent than CPT-11, with the anti-HER2 antibody trastuzumab to prepare three different ADC conjugates (T-SN38 A, B and C). Meanwhile, we compared the anti-ovarian cancer effect of these three T-SN38 conjugates with trastuzumab in vitro and in vivo. Our in vitro results showed that T-SN38 A, B and C (drug-to-antibody ratio, DAR=3.7, 3.2, 3.4) were 2 to 3 times as cytotoxic as SN-38, and the IC50 for these three conjugates on SKOV-3 cell line at 72 h were 5.2 ± 0.3, 4.4 ± 0.7, and 5.1 ± 0.4 nM respectively. In our in vivo studies, T-SN38 conjugates had well targeting ability for tumor tissue and all three of them had much higher anti-ovarian cancer potency than trastuzumab. Among of them, T-SN38 B, which coupled SN-38 with trastuzumab by a carbonate bond, has the best anti-ovarian cancer potency. In conclusion, the novel HER2-targeting ADCs T-SN38 have great potential for HER2-positive ovarian cancer. Moreover, the SN-38-Linkers designed in this study can also be used to connect with other antibodies for the therapy of other cancers.

SN-38 active loading in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles and assessment of their anticancer properties on COLO-205 human colon adenocarcinoma cells

SN-38 is a highly effective drug against many cancers. The development of an optimal delivery system for SN-38 is extremely challenging due to its low solubility and labile lactone ring. Herein, SN-38 encapsulated in poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (NPs) is introduced to enhance its solubility, stability and cellular uptake. SN-38-loaded NPs prepared by spontaneous emulsification solvent diffusion (SESD) method had an average diameter of 310 nm, a zeta potential of -9.69 mV and a loading efficiency of 71%. They were able to protect the active lactone ring of SN-38 against inactivation under physiological condition. A colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (COLO-205) was used to assess the NPs effects on cytotoxicity and cellular uptake. Result showed a significant decreased cell proliferation and cell apoptosis. These results suggest that these SN-38-loaded NPs can be an effective delivery system for the treatment of colon cancer and potentially for other types of cancers.

Challenges in SN38 drug delivery: current success and future directions

INTRODUCTION

Clinical use of SN38 is limited by its poor aqueous solubility and hydrolysis of the lactone ring at pH > 6 to inactive carboxylate form. A variety of drug delivery systems have been developed to improve the solubility and stability of SN38, and reduce its toxicity. A few noteworthy formulations with some success in initial phases of clinical trials are reported.

AREAS COVERED

This work aims to provide a comprehensive review on the various techniques and strategies employed (physical, chemical and biological methods) to improve physicochemical properties and to deliver the drug efficiently to the cancer cells. Physical methods such as nanoparticle encapsulation, cyclodextrin complexation; chemical methods such as prodrugs, polymer-, albumin- and immunoconjugates; and enzyme activated prodrug therapy are discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

The challenges in SN38 drug delivery may be overcome by two ways: ensuring multiple layers of protection against degradation and slow but sustained release of therapeutically effective drug concentrations. It may also be achieved by preparing a polymer-drug conjugate and further encapsulating the conjugate in suitable carrier system; tumor-targeted SN38 delivery by using immunoconjugates, enzyme-activated prodrug therapy and antibody-directed nanoparticle delivery. However, selection of a suitable ligand for tumor targeting and use of safe and biocompatible nanoparticle systems play an important role in realizing this goal.

High-efficiency liposomal encapsulation of a tyrosine kinase inhibitor leads to improved in vivo toxicity and tumor response profile

Staurosporine (STS) is a potent pan-kinase inhibitor with marked activity against several chemotherapy-resistant tumor types in vitro. The translational progress of this compound has been hindered by poor pharmacokinetics and toxicity. We sought to determine whether liposomal encapsulation of STS would enhance antitumor efficacy and reduce toxicity, thereby supporting the feasibility of further preclinical development. We developed a novel reverse pH gradient liposomal loading method for STS, with an optimal buffer type and drug-to-lipid ratio. Our approach produced 70% loading efficiency with good retention, and we provide, for the first time, an assessment of the in vivo antitumor activity of STS. A low intravenous dose (0.8 mg/kg) inhibited U87 tumors in a murine flank model. Biodistribution showed preferential tumor accumulation, and body weight data, a sensitive index of STS toxicity, was unaffected by liposomal STS, but did decline with the free compound. In vitro experiments revealed that liposomal STS blocked Akt phosphorylation, induced poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage, and produced cell death via apoptosis. This study provides a basis to explore further the feasibility of liposomally encapsulated STS, and potentially related compounds for the management of resistant solid tumors.

Prodrug and nanomedicine approaches for the delivery of the camptothecin analogue SN38

SN38 (7-ethyl-10-hydroxy camptothecin) is a prominent and efficacious anticancer agent. It is poorly soluble in both water and pharmaceutically approved solvents; therefore, the direct formulation of SN38 in solution form is limited. Currently, the water soluble prodrug of SN38, irinotecan (CPT-11), is formulated as a low pH solution and is approved for chemotherapy. However, CPT-11, along with most other water-soluble prodrugs shows unpredictable inter-patient conversion to SN38 in vivo, instability in the physiological environment and variable dose-related toxicities. More recently, macromolecular prodrugs (i.e. EZN-2208, IMMU-130) and nanomedicine formulations (i.e. nanoemulsions, polymeric micelles, lipid nanocapsule/nanoparticle, and liposomes) of SN38 have been investigated for improved delivery to cancer cells and tissues. Specifically, these carriers can take advantage of the EPR effect to direct drug preferentially to tumour tissues, thereby substantially improving efficacy and minimising side effects. Furthermore, oral delivery has been shown to be possible in preclinical results using nanomedicine formulations (i.e. dendrimers, lipid nanocapsules, polymeric micelles). This review summarizes the recent advances for the delivery of SN38 with a focus on macromolecular prodrugs and nanomedicines.

Preparation, characterization, biodistribution and antitumor efficacy of hydroxycamptothecin nanosuspensions

Hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) has shown activity against a broad spectrum of cancers, but its therapeutic efficacy is impaired by its poor solubility and delivery challenges. In this study, HCPT nanosuspensions were prepared with precipitation-combined ultrasonication and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The HCPT nanosuspensions were spherical with a smooth surface and a small size of 150-200 nm. The lyophilized powders for the HCPT nanosuspensions were amorphous and displayed sustained release in vitro. Compared to commercial HCPT injection, in vivo experiments with HCPT nanosuspensions showed significantly increased HCPT concentrations in the blood and all tissues of the tested as well as improved tumor targetability and liver targetability. Meanwhile, nanosuspensions displayed better anticancer efficacy than injection on H22 bearing mice (81.20% vs. 56.39%, in tumor inhibition rate). Therefore, HCPT nanosuspensions seem very promising for the treatment of hepatic cancer.

Sirolimus-loaded stealth colloidal systems attenuate neointimal hyperplasia after balloon injury: a comparison of phospholipid micelles and liposomes

Restenosis after angioplasty remains a serious complication in clinical cardiology. This study aims to investigate the stealth colloidal systems for local intra-arterial drug delivery. Micelles from polyethylene glycol conjugated with phosphatidylethanolamine and PEGylated liposomes loaded with sirolimus were prepared and characterized with regard to their loading efficiency, particle size distribution, zeta potential, morphology, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, drug release profile and stability. The antirestenotic effects of the sirolimus-loaded micelles (14 nm) and liposomes (90 nm) were evaluated and compared in the rat carotid injury model following local intravascular delivery. In comparison to control groups, treatment of balloon injured rats with drug loaded micelles and nanoliposomes significantly reduced vascular stenosis by 42% and 19%, respectively (P<0.05). In addition, the luminal area was significantly enlarged by 39% and 60% following treatment with sirolimus-loaded liposomes and micelles, respectively (P<0.05). Immunohistochemistry revealed that sirolimus-loaded nanocarriers suppressed cell proliferation (Ki67-positive cells) as compared to control groups without affecting the density of smooth muscle actin staining. These results suggest that both colloidal nanocarriers could serve as effective intramural drug delivery systems for the treatment of restenosis; however, phospholipid based micelles provided better antirestenotic effects than PEGylated liposomes.

SN-38 loaded polymeric micelles to enhance cancer therapy

7-Ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN-38) loaded poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(propylene glycol)-block-poly(ethylene glycol) (Pluronic F-108) and poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(ε-caprolactone) (PEG-b-PCL) nanoparticles were successfully prepared by a modified film hydration method and characterized by scanning electric microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Satisfactory drug loading of 20.73 ± 0.66% and a high encapsulation efficiency of 83.83 ± 1.32% were achieved. The SN-38 nanoparticles (SN-38 NPs) can completely disperse into a phosphate buffered saline (PBS) medium to produce a clear aqueous suspension that remains stable for up to three days. Total drug releases were 67.91% and 91.09% after 24 h in a PBS or fetal bovine serum (FBS) medium. Half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC(50)) tests of SN-38 and SN-38 NPs on A549 lung cells produced results of 200.0 ± 14.9 ng ml(-1) and 80.0 ± 4.6 ng ml(-1), respectively. Similarly, IC(50) tests of SN-38 and SN-38 NPs on MCF-7 breast cells yielded results of 16.0 ± 0.7 ng ml(-1) and 8.0 ± 0.5 ng ml(-1), respectively. These in vitro IC(50) studies show significant (p < 0.01) enhancement of the SN-38 NP drug efficiency in killing cancer cells in comparison to the free drug SN-38 control. All the materials used for this nanoformulation are approved by the US FDA, with the virtue of extremely low toxicity to normal cells.

Magnetic-Fe/Fe(3)O(4)-nanoparticle-bound SN38 as carboxylesterase-cleavable prodrug for the delivery to tumors within monocytes/macrophages

The targeted delivery of therapeutics to the tumor site is highly desirable in cancer treatment, because it is capable of minimizing collateral damage. Herein, we report the synthesis of a nanoplatform, which is composed of a 15 ± 1 nm diameter core/shell Fe/Fe(3)O(4) magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and the topoisomerase I blocker SN38 bound to the surface of the MNPs via a carboxylesterase cleavable linker. This nanoplatform demonstrated high heating ability (SAR = 522 ± 40 W/g) in an AC-magnetic field. For the purpose of targeted delivery, this nanoplatform was loaded into tumor-homing double-stable RAW264.7 cells (mouse monocyte/macrophage-like cells (Mo/Ma)), which have been engineered to express intracellular carboxylesterase (InCE) upon addition of doxycycline by a Tet-On Advanced system. The nanoplatform was taken up efficiently by these tumor-homing cells. They showed low toxicity even at high nanoplatform concentration. SN38 was released successfully by switching on the Tet-On Advanced system. We have demonstrated that this nanoplatform can be potentially used for thermochemotherapy. We will be able to achieve the following goals: (1) Specifically deliver the SN38 prodrug and magnetic nanoparticles to the cancer site as the payload of tumor-homing double-stable RAW264.7 cells; (2) Release of chemotherapeutic SN38 at the cancer site by means of the self-containing Tet-On Advanced system; (3) Provide localized magnetic hyperthermia to enhance the cancer treatment, both by killing cancer cells through magnetic heating and by activating the immune system.

Effect of liposomal celecoxib on proliferation of colon cancer cell and inhibition of DMBA-induced tumor in rat model

Celecoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, has shown potential anticancerous activity against majority of solid tumors especially on patients with colon cancer. However, associations of serious side effects limit the usage of celecoxib in colon cancer treatment. To address this issue and provide an alternative strategy to increase the efficacy of celecoxib, liposomal formulation of celecoxib was prepared and characterized. Anticancer activity of liposomal celecoxib on colon cancer cell HCT 15 was evaluated in vitro. Furthermore, tumor inhibition efficiency by liposomal celecoxib was studied on 7,12-dimethyl benz(a)anthracene (DMBA)-induced tumor in rat model. In order to elucidate the antioxidant activity of celecoxib-loaded liposomes, antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) generation and lipid peroxide (LPx) formation in both liver and kidney tissues were examined. Characterization of the formed unilamellar liposomes revealed the formation of homogeneous suspension of neutral (empty) or anionic (celecoxib-loaded) liposomes with a well-defined spherical shape which have a mean size of 103.5 nm (empty liposome) and 169 nm (liposomal celecoxib). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis and hemolytic assay demonstrated 46% of celecoxib entrapment efficiency and significantly low hemolysis, respectively. Liposomal celecoxib exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity and apoptotic activity against HCT 15 cells which are comparable to free celecoxib. In vivo study demonstrated inhibition of tumor growth. Biochemical analysis of the liposomal celecoxib-treated group significantly inhibited the LPx formation (oxygen-free radicals) and increased the activity of SOD. Our results present the potential of inhibiting colon cancer in vitro and DMBA-induced tumor in rat model in vivo by liposomal celecoxib.

Development and characterization of a novel lipid nanocapsule formulation of Sn38 for oral administration

The purpose of this work was to encapsulate 7-Ethyl-10-hydroxy-camptothecin (Sn38) in lipid nanocapsules (LNCs) using phase inversion-based method in order to deliver Sn38 by oral route. LNCs were prepared by a low-energy emulsification method and were characterized for size, polydispersity index (PDI), surface charge, drug payload, in vitro drug release, and storage stability. Moreover, in view of an oral administration, in vitro stability in gastrointestinal fluid and permeability across Caco-2 cells were tested. Sn38-loaded LNCs with a mean particle size of 38±2 nm were obtained. The particles displayed a narrow size distribution and a drug payload of 0.40±0.07 mg/g of LNC dispersion. In vitro stability in simulated gastric and intestinal media was also observed. Finally, Sn38-loaded LNCs improved permeability of Sn38 across Caco-2 cells (5.69±0.87×10(6) cm s(-1) at 6h vs 0.31±0.02×10(6) cm s(-1)) and intracellular concentration compared with free Sn38. In conclusion, Sn38 nanocarriers have been developed and display a strong potential for oral administration.

The synthesis of a c(RGDyK) targeted SN38 prodrug with an indolequinone structure for bioreductive drug release

Preparation of a novel c(RGDyK) targeted SN38 prodrug incorporating an indolequinone structure for bioreductively triggered drug release is described. This design yields a prodrug that targets surface molecules on tumor cells (alpha(v)beta(3) integrins) and releases drug under bioreductive conditions. There are three moieties in the prodrug design, namely a therapeutic drug SN38, an indolequinone structure serving as a drug releasing trigger, and an alpha(v)beta(3) integrin targeting peptide c(RGDyK). Preliminary studies showed that SN38 is released in the presence of a bioreductive enzyme (DT-diaphorase).

Preparation of pegylated nano-liposomal formulation containing SN-38: In vitro characterization and in vivo biodistribution in mice

7-Ethyl-10-hydroxy-camptothecin (SN-38), a metabolite of irinotecan x HCl, is poorly soluble in aqueous solutions and practically insoluble in most physiologically compatible and pharmaceutically acceptable solvents. Formulation of SN-38 in concentrated pharmaceutical delivery systems for parenteral administration is thus very difficult. Due to their biocompatibility and low toxicity, liposomes were considered for the delivery of SN-38. In this study, pegylated liposomes with distearoylphosphatidylcholine, distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine containing SN-38 were prepared and their characteristics, such as particle size, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro drug release and biodistribution, were investigated. The particle size of liposomes was in the range of 150--200 nm. The encapsulation efficiency and in vitro release rate of pegylated liposomes was higher than those of non-pegylated liposomes. As expected, the distribution of pegylated liposomes in body organs such as liver, kidney, spleen and lung was considerably lower than that of non-pegylated liposomes. Also, their blood concentration was at least 50 % higher than that of non-pegylated liposomes.

Lipids including cholesteryl linoleate and cholesteryl arachidonate contribute to the inherent antibacterial activity of human nasal fluid

Mucosal surfaces provide first-line defense against microbial invasion through their complex secretions. The antimicrobial activities of proteins in these secretions have been well delineated, but the contributions of lipids to mucosal defense have not been defined. We found that normal human nasal fluid contains all major lipid classes (in micrograms per milliliter), as well as lipoproteins and apolipoprotein A-I. The predominant less polar lipids were myristic, palmitic, palmitoleic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic acid, cholesterol, and cholesteryl palmitate, cholesteryl linoleate, and cholesteryl arachidonate. Normal human bronchioepithelial cell secretions exhibited a similar lipid composition. Removal of less-polar lipids significantly decreased the inherent antibacterial activity of nasal fluid against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which was in part restored after replenishing the lipids. Furthermore, lipids extracted from nasal fluid exerted direct antibacterial activity in synergism with the antimicrobial human neutrophil peptide HNP-2 and liposomal formulations of cholesteryl linoleate and cholesteryl arachidonate were active against P. aeruginosa at physiological concentrations as found in nasal fluid and exerted inhibitory activity against other Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. These data suggest that host-derived lipids contribute to mucosal defense. The emerging concept of host-derived antimicrobial lipids unveils novel roads to a better understanding of the immunology of infectious diseases.

DTS-108, a novel peptidic prodrug of SN38: in vivo efficacy and toxicokinetic studies

PURPOSE

Irinotecan is a prodrug converted to the active cytotoxic molecule SN38 predominantly by the action of liver carboxylesterases. The efficacy of irinotecan is limited by this hepatic activation that results in a low conversion rate, high interpatient variability, and dose-limiting gastrointestinal toxicity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a novel peptidic prodrug of SN38 (DTS-108) developed to bypass this hepatic activation and thus reduce the gastrointestinal toxicity and interpatient variability compared with irinotecan.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

SN38 was conjugated to a cationic peptide (Vectocell) via an esterase cleavable linker. The preclinical development plan consisted of toxicity and efficacy evaluation in a number of different models and species.

RESULTS

The conjugate (DTS-108) is highly soluble, with a human plasma half-life of 400 minutes in vitro. Studies in the dog showed that DTS-108 liberates significantly higher levels of free SN38 than irinotecan without causing gastrointestinal toxicity. In addition, the ratio of the inactive SN38-glucuronide metabolite compared with the active SN38 metabolite is significantly lower following DTS-108 administration, compared with irinotecan, which is consistent with reduced hepatic metabolism. In vivo efficacy studies showed that DTS-108 has improved activity compared with irinotecan. A significant dose-dependent antitumoral efficacy was observed in all models tested and DTS-108 showed synergistic effects in combination with other clinically relevant therapeutic agents.

CONCLUSIONS

DTS-108 is able to deliver significantly higher levels of SN38 than irinotecan, without the associated toxicity of irinotecan, resulting in an increased therapeutic window for DTS-108 in preclinical models. These encouraging data merit further preclinical and clinical investigation.

Con A affinity glycoproteomics of normal human liver tissue

In order to establish the novel high throughput, high efficiency and low cost technological platform for the research of N-glycoproteomics, to resolve the significance of characteristic expression profile of glycoprotein and to find the proteins with biological functional importance, the glycoproteins with high-mannose core and the two antennary types were purified and enriched by the Con A affinity chromatography. Con A affinity protein expression profiles of normal human liver tissue were generated by using SDS-PAGE, two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) followed by fast fluorescence staining based on multiplexed proteomics (MP) technology. 301 visible protein spots on the gel were detected and 85 of glycoproteins were further successfully identified via peptide mass fingerprinting (PMF) by a matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS/MS) and annotated to IPI databases. Identified glycoproteins definitely take part in the regulation of cell cycle and metabolic processes. The glycosylation sites were predicted with NetNGlyc 1.0 and NetOGlyc 3.1 software, meanwhile they were classified according to the geneontology methods. The construction of Con A affinity glycoprotein database of normal human liver tissue would contribute to the subsequent research.