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Thongchot S, Aksonnam K, Thuwajit P, Yenchitsomanus PT, Thuwajit C. Nucleolin‑based targeting strategies in cancer treatment: Focus on cancer immunotherapy (Review). Int J Mol Med 2023; 52:81. [PMID: 37477132 PMCID: PMC10555485 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2023.5284] [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: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The benefits of treating several types of cancers using immunotherapy have recently been established. The overexpression of nucleolin (NCL) in a number of types of cancer provides an attractive antigen target for the development of novel anticancer immunotherapeutic treatments. NCL is a multifunctional protein abundantly distributed in the nucleus, cytoplasm and cell membrane. It influences carcinogenesis, and the proliferation, survival and metastasis of cancer cells, leading to cancer progression. Additionally, the meta‑analysis of total and cytoplasmic NCL overexpression indicates a poor prognosis of patients with breast cancer. The AS1411 aptamers currently appear to have therapeutic action in the phase II clinical trial. The authors' research group has recently explored the anticancer function of NCL through the activation of T cells by dendritic cell‑based immunotherapy. The present review describes and discusses the mechanisms through which the multiple functions of NCL can participate in the progression of cancer. In addition, the studies that define the utility of NCL‑dependent anticancer therapies are summarized, with specific focus being paid to cancer immunotherapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyanee Thongchot
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
| | - Krittaya Aksonnam
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
| | - Peti Thuwajit
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
| | - Pa-Thai Yenchitsomanus
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Chanitra Thuwajit
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
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2
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Recent advances and futuristic potentials of nano-tailored doxorubicin for prostate cancer therapy. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2023.104212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Dzhumashev D, Timpanaro A, Ali S, De Micheli AJ, Mamchaoui K, Cascone I, Rössler J, Bernasconi M. Quantum Dot-Based Screening Identifies F3 Peptide and Reveals Cell Surface Nucleolin as a Therapeutic Target for Rhabdomyosarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14205048. [PMID: 36291832 PMCID: PMC9600270 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Active drug delivery by tumor-targeting peptides is a promising approach to improve existing therapies for rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), by increasing the therapeutic effect and decreasing the systemic toxicity, e.g., by drug-loaded peptide-targeted nanoparticles. Here, we tested 20 different tumor-targeting peptides for their ability to bind to two RMS cell lines, Rh30 and RD, using quantum dots Streptavidin and biotin-peptides conjugates as a model for nanoparticles. Four peptides revealed a very strong binding to RMS cells: NCAM-1-targeting NTP peptide, nucleolin-targeting F3 peptide, and two Furin-targeting peptides, TmR and shTmR. F3 peptide showed the strongest binding to all RMS cell lines tested, low binding to normal control myoblasts and fibroblasts, and efficient internalization into RMS cells demonstrated by the cytoplasmic delivery of the Saporin toxin. The expression of the nucleophosphoprotein nucleolin, the target of F3, on the surface of RMS cell lines was validated by competition with the natural ligand lactoferrin, by colocalization with the nucleolin-binding aptamer AS1411, and by the marked sensitivity of RMS cell lines to the growth inhibitory nucleolin-binding N6L pseudopeptide. Taken together, our results indicate that nucleolin-targeting by F3 peptide represents a potential therapeutic approach for RMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dzhangar Dzhumashev
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Timpanaro
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Safa Ali
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrea J. De Micheli
- Department of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
- Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 3032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kamel Mamchaoui
- Centre de Recherche en Myologie, Institut de Myologie, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France
| | - Ilaria Cascone
- IMRB, INSERM, University Paris Est Creteil, 94010 Creteil, France
- AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalo-Universitaire Chenevier Mondor, Centre d’Investigation Clinique Biothérapie, 94010 Créteil, France
| | - Jochen Rössler
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Michele Bernasconi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
- Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 3032 Zurich, Switzerland
- Correspondence:
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Nucleolin Overexpression Predicts Patient Prognosis While Providing a Framework for Targeted Therapeutic Intervention in Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092217. [PMID: 35565346 PMCID: PMC9101044 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite the clinical benefit of new anticancer therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, lung cancer remains the most frequent cause of cancer-related death worldwide, thus supporting the need to develop novel anticancer treatments. Endothelial cells of the tumor-associated vasculature are easily accessible to drugs administered intravenously, besides having greater genetic stability than neoplastic cells and thus lowering the risk of developing drug resistance. In this respect, the identification of alternative targets, and therapeutic strategies, within the tumor vasculature is of high relevance. Accordingly, this work aimed at characterizing nucleolin expression in patient-derived pulmonary carcinomas and further validating nucleolin as a novel target to mediate successful therapeutic interventions against human lung cancers. The highlighted prognostic value of nucleolin points towards the applicability of nucleolin-based targeting strategies against nucleolinhigh pulmonary carcinomas, present in every disease stage, in a clinical trial setting. Abstract Notwithstanding the advances in the treatment of lung cancer with immune checkpoint inhibitors, the high percentage of non-responders supports the development of novel anticancer treatments. Herein, the expression of the onco-target nucleolin in patient-derived pulmonary carcinomas was characterized, along with the assessment of its potential as a therapeutic target. The clinical prognostic value of nucleolin for human pulmonary carcinomas was evaluated through data mining from the Cancer Genome Atlas project and immunohistochemical detection in human samples. Cell surface expression of nucleolin was evaluated by flow cytometry and subcellular fraction Western blotting in lung cancer cell lines. Nucleolin mRNA overexpression correlated with poor overall survival of lung adenocarcinoma cancer patients and further predicted the disease progression of both lung adenocarcinoma and squamous carcinoma. Furthermore, a third of the cases presented extra-nuclear expression, contrasting with the nucleolar pattern in non-malignant tissues. A two- to twelve-fold improvement in cytotoxicity, subsequent to internalization into the lung cancer cell lines of doxorubicin-loaded liposomes functionalized by the nucleolin-binding F3 peptide, was correlated with the nucleolin cell surface levels and the corresponding extent of cell binding. Overall, the results suggested nucleolin overexpression as a poor prognosis predictor and thus a target for therapeutic intervention in lung cancer.
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Lopes R, Shi K, Fonseca NA, Gama A, Ramalho JS, Almeida L, Moura V, Simões S, Tidor B, Moreira JN. Modelling the impact of nucleolin expression level on the activity of F3 peptide-targeted pH-sensitive pegylated liposomes containing doxorubicin. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2022; 12:629-646. [PMID: 33860446 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-021-00972-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Strategies targeting nucleolin have enabled a significant improvement in intracellular bioavailability of their encapsulated payloads. In this respect, assessment of the impact of target cell heterogeneity and nucleolin homology across species (structurally and functionally) is of major importance. This work also aimed at mathematically modelling the nucleolin expression levels at the cell membrane, binding and internalization of pH-sensitive pegylated liposomes encapsulating doxorubicin and functionalized with the nucleolin-binding F3 peptide (PEGASEMP), and resulting cytotoxicity against cancer cells from mouse, rat, canine, and human origin. Herein, it was shown that nucleolin expression levels were not a limitation on the continuous internalization of F3 peptide-targeted liposomes, despite the saturable nature of the binding mechanism. Modeling enabled the prediction of nucleolin-mediated total doxorubicin exposure provided by the experimental settings of the assessment of PEGASEMP's impact on cell death. The former increased proportionally with nucleolin-binding sites, a measure relevant for patient stratification. This pattern of variation was observed for the resulting cell death in nonsaturating conditions, depending on the cancer cell sensitivity to doxorubicin. This approach differs from standard determination of cytotoxic concentrations, which normally report values of incubation doses rather than the actual intracellular bioactive drug exposure. Importantly, in the context of development of nucleolin-based targeted drug delivery, the structural nucleolin homology (higher than 84%) and functional similarity across species presented herein, emphasized the potential to use toxicological data and other metrics from lower species to infer the dose for a first-in-human trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Lopes
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Kevin Shi
- Department of Biological Engineering and Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Nuno A Fonseca
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- TREAT U, SA - Parque Industrial de Taveiro, Lote 44, 3045-508, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Adelina Gama
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-Os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, Apartado 1013, 5000-801, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - José S Ramalho
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, NOVA Medical School, New University of Lisbon, Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luís Almeida
- Blueclinical, Ltd, 4460-439, Senhora da Hora, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Vera Moura
- TREAT U, SA - Parque Industrial de Taveiro, Lote 44, 3045-508, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Simões
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- UC - University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bruce Tidor
- Department of Biological Engineering and Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
| | - João N Moreira
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- UC - University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
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Targeted liposomal doxorubicin/ceramides combinations: the importance to assess the nature of drug interaction beyond bulk tumor cells. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2022; 172:61-77. [PMID: 35104605 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
One of the major assets of anticancer nanomedicine is the ability to co-deliver drug combinations, as it enables targeting of different cellular populations and/or signaling pathways implicated in tumorigenesis and thus tackling tumor heterogeneity. Moreover, drug resistance can be circumvented, for example, upon co-encapsulation and delivery of doxorubicin and sphingolipids, as ceramides. Herein, the impact of short (C6) and long (C18) alkyl chain length ceramides on the nature of drug interaction, within the scope of combination with doxorubicin, was performed in bulk triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, as well as on the density of putative cancer stem cells and phenotype, including live single-cell tracking. C6- or C18-ceramide enabled a synergistic drug interaction in all conditions and (bulk) cell lines tested. However, differentiation among these two ceramides was reflected on the migratory potential of cancer cells, particularly significant against the highly motile MDA-MB-231 cells. This effect was supported by the downregulation of the PI3K/Akt pathway enabled by C6-ceramide and in contrast with C18-ceramide. The decrease of the migratory potential enabled by the targeted liposomal combinations is of high relevance in the context of TNBC, due to the underlying metastatic potential. Surprisingly, the nature of the drug interaction assessed at the level of bulk cancer cells revealed to be insufficient to predict whether a drug combination enables a decrease in the percentage of the master regulators of tumor relapse as ALDH+/high putative TNBC cancer stem cells, suggesting, for the first time, that it should be extended further down to this level.
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Cruz AF, Caleiras MB, Fonseca NA, Gonçalves N, Mendes VM, Sampaio SF, Moura V, Melo JB, Almeida RD, Manadas B, Simões S, Moreira JN. The Enhanced Efficacy of Intracellular Delivery of Doxorubicin/C6-Ceramide Combination Mediated by the F3 Peptide/Nucleolin System Is Supported by the Downregulation of the PI3K/Akt Pathway. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13123052. [PMID: 34207464 PMCID: PMC8235382 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Targeted nanomedicine-based approaches that aim at the simultaneous delivery of synergistic drug combinations to multiple cellular populations are of high relevance for tackling heterogeneity on solid tumors. Considering that cancer stem cells (CSC) may originate from non-stem cancer cells, single-drug regimens targeting only one of these cell populations could enable tumors to evade treatments. As such, the identification of a common marker, such as nucleolin, might result in a therapeutic advantage. The results herein generated suggested a transversal role of nucleolin in the internalization of F3 peptide-targeted pegylated pH-sensitive liposomes into bulk ovarian cancer cells, including putative CSC-enriched ovarian cells. The intracellular delivery of a drug combination such as the one tested herein was relevant in the context of cell lines with higher intrinsic resistances to doxorubicin. The enhanced efficacy of the F3 peptide-targeted liposomal combination of doxorubicin/C6-ceramide was supported by the downregulation of the Akt pathway, within a specific range of basal level of expression. Abstract Targeting multiple cellular populations is of high therapeutic relevance for the tackling of solid tumors heterogeneity. Herein, the ability of pegylated and pH-sensitive liposomes, functionalized with the nucleolin-binding F3 peptide and containing doxorubicin (DXR)/C6-ceramide synergistic combination, to target, in vitro, ovarian cancer, including ovarian cancer stem cells (CSC), was assessed. The underlying molecular mechanism of action of the nucleolin-mediated intracellular delivery of C6-ceramide to cancer cells was also explored. The assessment of overexpression of surface nucleolin expression by flow cytometry was critical to dissipate differences identified by Western blot in membrane/cytoplasm of SKOV-3, OVCAR-3 and TOV-112D ovarian cancer cell lines. The former was in line with the significant extent of uptake into (bulk) ovarian cancer cells, relative to non-targeted and non-specific counterparts. This pattern of uptake was recapitulated with putative CSC-enriched ovarian SKOV-3 and OVCAR-3 sub-population (EpCAMhigh/CD44high). Co-encapsulation of DXR:C6-ceramide into F3 peptide-targeted liposomes improved cytotoxic activity relative to liposomes containing DXR alone, in an extent that depended on the intrinsic resistance to DXR and on the incubation time. The enhanced cytotoxicity of the targeted combination was mechanistically supported by the downregulation of PI3K/Akt pathway by C6-ceramide, only among the nucleolin-overexpressing cancer cells presenting a basal p-Akt/total Akt ratio lower than 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana F. Cruz
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
- Univ Coimbra—University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mariana B. Caleiras
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
- Univ Coimbra—University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno A. Fonseca
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
- TREAT U, SA—Parque Industrial de Taveiro, Lote 44, 3045-508 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nélio Gonçalves
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Vera M. Mendes
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Susana F. Sampaio
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
- Univ Coimbra—University of Coimbra, CIBB, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Vera Moura
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
- TREAT U, SA—Parque Industrial de Taveiro, Lote 44, 3045-508 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana B. Melo
- iCBR—Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, CIBB, Center of Investigation on Environment Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Univ Coimbra—University of Coimbra, Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Faculty of Medicine, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ramiro D. Almeida
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Bruno Manadas
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Sérgio Simões
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
- Univ Coimbra—University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João N. Moreira
- CNC—Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.F.C.); (M.B.C.); (N.A.F.); (N.G.); (V.M.M.); (S.F.S.); (V.M.); (R.D.A.); (B.M.); (S.S.)
- Univ Coimbra—University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence:
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Fan M, Li J. A Novel Combinational Nanodrug Delivery System Induces Synergistic Inhibition of Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells In vitro. LETT DRUG DES DISCOV 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1570180817999200719152426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background:
The combination of two or more therapeutic drugs is an attractive approach
to improve the treatment of experimental tumors. Leveraging nanocarriers for combinational drug
delivery can allow control over drug biological fate and promote co-localization in the same area of
the body. However, there are certain concerns regarding the biodegradability and potential longterm
toxicity arising from these synthetic nanoscale carriers.
Objective:
Our aim was to develop a combinational nanodrug delivery system formed by selfassembling
of amphiphilic drug molecules.minimizing potential toxicities associated with using
additional synthetic nanocarriers.
Methods:
A novel prodrug chlorambucil gemcitabine conjugate was synthesized, this prodrug was
used for the encapsulation of an additional hydrophobic anticancer drug paclitaxel, taking the form
of combinational nanodrugs. Particle size and zeta potential were evaluated, cytotoxicity assay and
apoptosis/cell cycle analysis were also performed to validate the anticancer efficacy of the combinational
nanodrugs.
Results:
The combinational nanodrugs were acquired by means of nanoprecipitation. In A549 lung
adenocarcinoma cell line, cellular assays revealed that co-delivery of low dosage paclitaxel with
chlorambucil gemcitabine conjugate can act synergistically to inhibit cell growth and induce accumulation
of cells in the G2/M phase with a concomitant decrease in G0/G1 compartment.
Conclusion:
Chlorambucil gemcitabine conjugate and paclitaxel can co-assemble into composite
nanoparticles by a nanoprecipitation process and the resulting combinational nanodrugs showed a
synergistic anticancer effect. This synthetic nanocarrier-free approach might broaden the nanodrug
concept and have potential in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingliang Fan
- School of Medical Instrument and Food Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200093, China
| | - Jiping Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China
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Cancer Stem Cells and Nucleolin as Drivers of Carcinogenesis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14010060. [PMID: 33451077 PMCID: PMC7828541 DOI: 10.3390/ph14010060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer, one of the most mortal diseases worldwide, is characterized by the gain of specific features and cellular heterogeneity. Clonal evolution is an established theory to explain heterogeneity, but the discovery of cancer stem cells expanded the concept to include the hierarchical growth and plasticity of cancer cells. The activation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and its molecular players are widely correlated with the presence of cancer stem cells in tumors. Moreover, the acquisition of certain oncological features may be partially attributed to alterations in the levels, location or function of nucleolin, a multifunctional protein involved in several cellular processes. This review aims at integrating the established hallmarks of cancer with the plasticity of cancer cells as an emerging hallmark; responsible for tumor heterogeneity; therapy resistance and relapse. The discussion will contextualize the involvement of nucleolin in the establishment of cancer hallmarks and its application as a marker protein for targeted anticancer therapies
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Abreu TR, Biscaia M, Gonçalves N, Fonseca NA, Moreira JN. In Vitro and In Vivo Tumor Models for the Evaluation of Anticancer Nanoparticles. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1295:271-299. [PMID: 33543464 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-58174-9_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Multiple studies about tumor biology have revealed the determinant role of the tumor microenvironment in cancer progression, resulting from the dynamic interactions between tumor cells and surrounding stromal cells within the extracellular matrix. This malignant microenvironment highly impacts the efficacy of anticancer nanoparticles by displaying drug resistance mechanisms, as well as intrinsic physical and biochemical barriers, which hamper their intratumoral accumulation and biological activity.Currently, two-dimensional cell cultures are used as the initial screening method in vitro for testing cytotoxic nanocarriers. However, this fails to mimic the tumor heterogeneity, as well as the three-dimensional tumor architecture and pathophysiological barriers, leading to an inaccurate pharmacological evaluation.Biomimetic 3D in vitro tumor models, on the other hand, are emerging as promising tools for more accurately assessing nanoparticle activity, owing to their ability to recapitulate certain features of the tumor microenvironment and thus provide mechanistic insights into nanocarrier intratumoral penetration and diffusion rates.Notwithstanding, in vivo validation of nanomedicines remains irreplaceable at the preclinical stage, and a vast variety of more advanced in vivo tumor models is currently available. Such complex animal models (e.g., genetically engineered mice and patient-derived xenografts) are capable of better predicting nanocarrier clinical efficiency, as they closely resemble the heterogeneity of the human tumor microenvironment.Herein, the development of physiologically more relevant in vitro and in vivo tumor models for the preclinical evaluation of anticancer nanoparticles will be discussed, as well as the current limitations and future challenges in clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa R Abreu
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, Coimbra, Portugal.,UC - University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mariana Biscaia
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nélio Gonçalves
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno A Fonseca
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, Coimbra, Portugal.,TREAT U, SA, Parque Industrial de Taveiro, Lote 44, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Nuno Moreira
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, Coimbra, Portugal. .,UC - University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Coimbra, Portugal.
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11
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Coutinho MF, Santos JI, S. Mendonça L, Matos L, Prata MJ, S. Jurado A, Pedroso de Lima MC, Alves S. Lysosomal Storage Disease-Associated Neuropathy: Targeting Stable Nucleic Acid Lipid Particle (SNALP)-Formulated siRNAs to the Brain as a Therapeutic Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165732. [PMID: 32785133 PMCID: PMC7461213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
More than two thirds of Lysosomal Storage Diseases (LSDs) present central nervous system involvement. Nevertheless, only one of the currently approved therapies has an impact on neuropathology. Therefore, alternative approaches are under development, either addressing the underlying enzymatic defect or its downstream consequences. Also under study is the possibility to block substrate accumulation upstream, by promoting a decrease of its synthesis. This concept is known as substrate reduction therapy and may be triggered by several molecules, such as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). siRNAs promote RNA interference, a naturally occurring sequence-specific post-transcriptional gene-silencing mechanism, and may target virtually any gene of interest, inhibiting its expression. Still, naked siRNAs have limited cellular uptake, low biological stability, and unfavorable pharmacokinetics. Thus, their translation into clinics requires proper delivery methods. One promising platform is a special class of liposomes called stable nucleic acid lipid particles (SNALPs), which are characterized by high cargo encapsulation efficiency and may be engineered to promote targeted delivery to specific receptors. Here, we review the concept of SNALPs, presenting a series of examples on their efficacy as siRNA nanodelivery systems. By doing so, we hope to unveil the therapeutic potential of these nanosystems for targeted brain delivery of siRNAs in LSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Francisca Coutinho
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA I.P), Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (J.I.S.); (L.M.); (S.A.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-(223)-401-113
| | - Juliana Inês Santos
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA I.P), Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (J.I.S.); (L.M.); (S.A.)
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Liliana S. Mendonça
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (L.S.M.); (M.C.P.d.L.)
- CIBB—Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Liliana Matos
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA I.P), Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (J.I.S.); (L.M.); (S.A.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria João Prata
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal;
- i3S—Institute of Research and Innovation in Health/IPATIMUP—Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Amália S. Jurado
- University of Coimbra, CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Maria C. Pedroso de Lima
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (L.S.M.); (M.C.P.d.L.)
| | - Sandra Alves
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA I.P), Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (J.I.S.); (L.M.); (S.A.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
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12
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Bellat V, Verchère A, Ashe SA, Law B. Transcriptomic insight into salinomycin mechanisms in breast cancer cell lines: synergistic effects with dasatinib and induction of estrogen receptor β. BMC Cancer 2020; 20:661. [PMID: 32678032 PMCID: PMC7364656 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-020-07134-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumors are heterogeneous in nature, composed of different cell populations with various mutations and/or phenotypes. Using a single drug to encounter cancer progression is generally ineffective. To improve the treatment outcome, multiple drugs of distinctive mechanisms but complementary anticancer activities (combination therapy) are often used to enhance antitumor efficacy and minimize the risk of acquiring drug resistance. We report here the synergistic effects of salinomycin (a polyether antibiotic) and dasatinib (a Src kinase inhibitor). METHODS Functionally, both drugs induce cell cycle arrest, intracellular reactive oxygen species (iROS) production, and apoptosis. We rationalized that an overlapping of the drug activities should offer an enhanced anticancer effect, either through vertical inhibition of the Src-STAT3 axis or horizontal suppression of multiple pathways. We determined the toxicity induced by the drug combination and studied the kinetics of iROS production by fluorescence imaging and flow cytometry. Using genomic and proteomic techniques, including RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq), reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and Western Blot, we subsequently identified the responsible pathways that contributed to the synergistic effects of the drug combination. RESULTS Compared to either drug alone, the drug combination showed enhanced potency against MDA-MB-468, MDA-MB-231, and MCF-7 human breast cancer (BC) cell lines and tumor spheroids. The drug combination induces both iROS generation and apoptosis in a time-dependent manner, following a 2-step kinetic profile. RNA-seq data revealed that the drug combination exhibited synergism through horizontal suppression of multiple pathways, possibly through a promotion of cell cycle arrest at the G1/S phase via the estrogen-mediated S-phase entry pathway, and partially via the BRCA1 and DNA damage response pathway. CONCLUSION Transcriptomic analyses revealed for the first time, that the estrogen-mediated S-phase entry pathway partially contributed to the synergistic effect of the drug combination. More importantly, our studies led to the discoveries of new potential therapeutic targets, such as E2F2, as well as a novel drug-induced targeting of estrogen receptor β (ESR2) approach for triple-negative breast cancer treatment, currently lacking of targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Bellat
- Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute, Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alice Verchère
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sally A Ashe
- Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute, Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Benedict Law
- Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute, Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA. .,Lead contact, New York, USA.
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Multifunctional, CD44v6-Targeted ORMOSIL Nanoparticles Enhance Drugs Toxicity in Cancer Cells. NANOMATERIALS 2020; 10:nano10020298. [PMID: 32050605 PMCID: PMC7075197 DOI: 10.3390/nano10020298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Drug-loaded, PEGylated, organic-modified silica (ORMOSIL) nanoparticles prepared by microemulsion condensation of vinyltriethoxysilane (VTES) were investigated as potential nanovectors for cancer therapy. To target cancer stem cells, anti-CD44v6 antibody and hyaluronic acid (HA) were conjugated to amine-functionalized PEGylated ORMOSIL nanoparticles through thiol-maleimide and amide coupling chemistries, respectively. Specific binding and uptake of conjugated nanoparticles were studied on cells overexpressing the CD44v6 receptor. Cytotoxicity was subsequently evaluated in the same cells after the uptake of the nanoparticles. Internalization of nanocarriers loaded with the anticancer drug 3N-cyclopropylmethyl-7-phenyl-pyrrolo- quinolinone (MG2477) into cells resulted in a substantial increase of the cytotoxicity with respect to the free formulation. Targeting with anti-CD44v6 antibodies or HA yielded nanoparticles with similar effectiveness, in their optimized formulation.
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Surface engineering of nanomaterials with phospholipid-polyethylene glycol-derived functional conjugates for molecular imaging and targeted therapy. Biomaterials 2019; 230:119646. [PMID: 31787335 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.119646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, phospholipid-polyethylene glycol-derived functional conjugates have been widely employed to decorate different nanomaterials, due to their excellent biocompatibility, long blood circulation characteristics, and specific targeting capability. Numerous in vivo studies have demonstrated that nanomedicines peripherally engineered with phospholipid-polyethylene glycol-derived functional conjugates show significantly increased selective and efficient internalization by target cells/tissues. Targeting moieties including small-molecule ligands, peptides, proteins, and antibodies are generally conjugated onto PEGylated phospholipids to decorate liposomes, micelles, hybrid nanoparticles, nanocomplexes, and nanoemulsions for targeted delivery of diagnostic and therapeutic agents to diseased sites. In this review, the synthesis methods of phospholipid-polyethylene glycol-derived functional conjugates, biophysicochemical properties of nanomedicines decorated with these conjugates, factors dominating their targeting efficiency, as well as their applications for in vivo molecular imaging and targeted therapy were summarized and discussed.
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Romano S, Fonseca N, Simões S, Gonçalves J, Moreira JN. Nucleolin-based targeting strategies for cancer therapy: from targeted drug delivery to cytotoxic ligands. Drug Discov Today 2019; 24:1985-2001. [PMID: 31271738 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is currently the second leading cause of death worldwide and current therapeutic approaches remain ineffective in several cases. Therefore, there is a need to develop more efficacious therapeutic agents, especially for subtypes of cancer lacking targeted therapies. Limited drug penetration into tumors impairs the efficacy of therapies targeting cancer cells. One of the strategies to overcome this problem is targeting the more accessible tumor vasculature via molecules such as nucleolin, which is expressed at the surface of cancer and angiogenic endothelial cells, thus enabling a dual cellular targeting strategy. In this review, we present and discuss nucleolin-based targeting strategies that have been developed for cancer therapy, with a special focus on recent antibody-based approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Romano
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine (Pólo I), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal; IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Casa Costa Alemão - Pólo II, Rua Dom Francisco de Lemos, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno Fonseca
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine (Pólo I), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal; TREAT U, SA, Parque Industrial de Taveiro, Lote 44, 3045-508 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Simões
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine (Pólo I), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Coimbra, 3000-548 Portugal
| | - João Gonçalves
- iMed. ULisboa - Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Avenida Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Nuno Moreira
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine (Pólo I), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Coimbra, 3000-548 Portugal.
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Chen L, Alrbyawi H, Poudel I, Arnold RD, Babu RJ. Co-delivery of Doxorubicin and Ceramide in a Liposomal Formulation Enhances Cytotoxicity in Murine B16BL6 Melanoma Cell Lines. AAPS PharmSciTech 2019; 20:99. [PMID: 30719596 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-019-1316-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study reports co-delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) and ceramide in a liposomal system in B16BL6 melanoma cell lines for enhanced cytotoxic effects. Different types of ceramides (C6-ceramide, C8-ceramide, and C8-glucosylceramide) and lipids (1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP), 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC), 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DSPC), 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DSPE)) were considered in the preparation of liposomes. DOX was encapsulated within liposome, and ceramide was used as the component of the lipid bilayer. The formulations were optimized for size and size distribution, zeta potential, and DOX encapsulation efficiency (EE). Cytotoxic effect on B16BL6 melanoma cell lines was measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The ceramide based liposome formulations generally provided a mean diameter < 181 nm, a zeta potential, + 35 mV, and EE > 90% DOX EE. Co-delivery of DOX and C8-ceramide with DOTAP liposomes demonstrated significantly higher cytotoxicity as compared to DOX liposomes without ceramide (P < 0.001), and also showed enhanced cellular uptake by B16BL6 cell lines. This study provides basis for developing a co-delivery system of DOX and ceramide for lowering the dose and dose-related side effects of DOX for the treatment of melanoma.
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Balça-Silva J, do Carmo A, Tão H, Rebelo O, Barbosa M, Moura-Neto V, Sarmento-Ribeiro AB, Lopes MC, Moreira JN. Nucleolin is expressed in patient-derived samples and glioblastoma cells, enabling improved intracellular drug delivery and cytotoxicity. Exp Cell Res 2018; 370:68-77. [PMID: 29902537 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2018.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
One of the major challenges in Glioblastoma (GBM) therapy relates with the existence of glioma stem-like cells (GSCs), known to be chemo- and radio-resistant. GSCs and non-stem GBM cells have the ability to interchange, emphasizing the importance of identifying common molecular targets among those cell sub-populations. Nucleolin overexpression has been recently associated with breast cancer sub-populations with different stem-like phenotype. The goal of this work was to evaluate the potential of cell surface nucleolin as a target in GBM cells. Different levels of nucleolin expression resulted in a 3.4-fold higher association of liposomes targeting nucleolin (functionalized with the nucleolin-binding F3 peptide) in U87, relative to GBM11 glioblastoma cells. Moreover, nucleolin was suggested as a potential marker in OCT4-, NANOG-positive GSC, and in the corresponding non-stem GBM cells, as well as in SOX2-positive GSC. Doxorubicin delivered by liposomes targeting nucleolin enabled a level of cytotoxicity that was 2.5- or 4.6-fold higher compared to the non-targeted counterparts. Importantly, an overexpression of nucleolin was also observed in cells of patient-derived samples, as compared with normal brain. Overall, these results suggested nucleolin as a therapeutic target in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Balça-Silva
- CNC.IBILI - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal; FMUC - Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; IECPN - Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Secretaria de Estado de Saúde, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Anália do Carmo
- CNC.IBILI - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal; CHUC - Clinical Pathology Department, Coimbra Hospital and Universitary Center, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Hermínio Tão
- CHUC - Neurosurgery Service, Coimbra Hospital and Universitary Center, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Olinda Rebelo
- CHUC - Neuropathology Laboratory, Neurology Service, Coimbra Hospital and Universitary Center, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Marcos Barbosa
- FMUC - Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CHUC - Neurosurgery Service, Coimbra Hospital and Universitary Center, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Vivaldo Moura-Neto
- IECPN - Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Secretaria de Estado de Saúde, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Ana Bela Sarmento-Ribeiro
- FMUC, Laboratory of Oncobiology and Hematology and University Clinic of Hematology/ Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; iCBR, CIMAGO - Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research - Group of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology - FMUC, Coimbra, Portugal; CHUC - Clinical Hematology Department/Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Maria Celeste Lopes
- CNC.IBILI - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - João Nuno Moreira
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Yin X, Xiao Y, Han L, Zhang B, Wang T, Su Z, Zhang N. Ceramide-Fabricated Co-Loaded Liposomes for the Synergistic Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. AAPS PharmSciTech 2018; 19:2133-2143. [PMID: 29714002 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-018-1005-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Combination therapy is one of the important methods to improve therapeutic effect on the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Sorafenib (SF) is a canonical US Food and Drug Administration-approved multikinase molecule inhibitor against HCC. However, therapeutic benefit with Sorafenib alone was usually unsatisfactory. Ceramide (CE) is an endogenous bioactive sphingolipid, which has a strong potential to suppress various tumors. The combination of SF and CE was hoping to exert maximum synergistic antitumor effect through different tumor-suppressible mechanisms. In this respect, SF and CE co-loaded liposomes (SF/CE-liposomes) were developed to verify synergistic antitumor efficacy. The optimal molar ratio of SF and CE was determined through combination index. SF/CE-liposomes were prepared by thin-film hydration method, which exhibited spherical or ellipsoidal shape. Particle size of SF/CE-liposomes was 174 ± 4 nm with homogeneous distribution. Release profile of SF demonstrated that addition of CE imposed no significant impact on the release of SF. SF/CE-liposomes exhibited acceptable stability in different media and desirable storage stability over 30 days at 4°C. In vitro cellular uptake confirmed that SF/CE-liposomes could be efficiently internalized into HepG2 cells. In vitro cytotoxicity evaluation indicated that SF/CE-liposomes exhibited higher cytotoxicity on HepG2 cells. IC50 value of SF/CE-liposomes was 11.5 ± 0.44 μM, which was significantly lower than that of SF-liposomes (**p < 0.01). Evaluation of in vivo synergistic effect on H22-bearing mice verified that SF/CE-liposomes achieved robust antitumor activity in preventing tumor growth. All results suggested that SF/CE-liposomes might be served as an efficient co-delivery system for improving therapeutic efficacy of HCC.
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Gregório AC, Lacerda M, Figueiredo P, Simões S, Dias S, Moreira JN. Meeting the needs of breast cancer: A nucleolin's perspective. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2018; 125:89-101. [PMID: 29650282 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2018.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A major challenge in the management of breast cancer disease has been the development of metastases. Finding new molecular targets and the design of targeted therapeutic approaches to improve the overall survival and quality of life of these patients is, therefore, of great importance. Nucleolin, which is overexpressed in cancer cells and tumor-associated blood vessels, have been implicated in various processes supporting tumorigenesis and angiogenesis. Additionally, its overexpression has been demonstrated in a variety of human neoplasias as an unfavorable prognostic factor, associated with a high risk of relapse and low overall survival. Hence, nucleolin has emerged as a relevant target for therapeutic intervention in cancer malignancy, including breast cancer. This review focus on the contribution of nucleolin for cancer disease and on the development of therapeutic strategies targeting this protein. In this respect, it also provides a critical analysis about the potential and pitfalls of nanomedicine for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C Gregório
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Manuela Lacerda
- IPATIMUP - Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paulo Figueiredo
- IPOFG-EPE - Portuguese Institute of Oncology Francisco Gentil, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Simões
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, University of Coimbra, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Dias
- IMM - Institute of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Nuno Moreira
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, University of Coimbra, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal.
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Øverbye A, Holsæter AM, Markus F, Škalko-Basnet N, Iversen TG, Torgersen ML, Sønstevold T, Engebraaten O, Flatmark K, Mælandsmo GM, Skotland T, Sandvig K. Ceramide-containing liposomes with doxorubicin: time and cell-dependent effect of C6 and C12 ceramide. Oncotarget 2017; 8:76921-76934. [PMID: 29100358 PMCID: PMC5652752 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.20217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Doxorubicin, a widely used chemotherapeutic drug, has several potential high-risk side effects including cardiomyopathy. Furthermore, cellular resistance to this drug develops with time. By using liposomes as carrier vesicles both the side effects and drug resistance might be avoided. In this study we have investigated the cytotoxic effect of doxorubicin encapsulated in liposomes with and without ceramides containing 6 or 12 carbon atoms in the N-amidated fatty acyl chains. The short-chain ceramide species were included in the liposomal compositions due to their pro-apoptotic properties, which might cause a synergistic anticancer effect. We demonstrate that the ceramide species enhance the liposomal doxorubicin toxicity in a cell-specific manner. The C6-ceramide effect is most pronounced in cervical cancer cells (HeLa) and colon cancer cells (HCT116), whereas the C12-ceramide effect is strongest in breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231). Moreover, the study reveals the importance of investigating cell toxicity at several time points and in different cell-lines, to assess drug-and formulation-induced cytotoxic effects in vitro. Furthermore, our data show that the cytotoxicity obtained with the nanocarriers in vitro, does not necessarily reflect their ability to inhibit tumor growth in vivo. We speculate that the larger effect of Caelyx® than our liposomes in vivo is due to a greater in vivo stability of Caelyx®.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Øverbye
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty Division Norwegian Radium Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ann Mari Holsæter
- Drug Transport and Delivery Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Fusser Markus
- Department of Tumour Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nataša Škalko-Basnet
- Drug Transport and Delivery Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Tore-Geir Iversen
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty Division Norwegian Radium Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria Lyngaas Torgersen
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty Division Norwegian Radium Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tonje Sønstevold
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty Division Norwegian Radium Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Olav Engebraaten
- Department of Tumour Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kjersti Flatmark
- Department of Tumour Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gunhild Mari Mælandsmo
- Drug Transport and Delivery Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Tumour Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tore Skotland
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty Division Norwegian Radium Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kirsten Sandvig
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty Division Norwegian Radium Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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21
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Badea I. New strategies in melanoma therapy: can nanoparticles overcome chemoresistance? Nanomedicine (Lond) 2017. [DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2017-0145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ildiko Badea
- College of Pharmacy & Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 107 Wiggins Road, Health Sciences Building, Room 3D01.5, Box 3D01–13, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5E5, Canada
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22
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Fonseca NA, Cruz AF, Moura V, Simões S, Moreira JN. The cancer stem cell phenotype as a determinant factor of the heterotypic nature of breast tumors. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2017; 113:111-121. [PMID: 28427501 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gathering evidence supports the existence of a population of cells with stem-like characteristics, named cancer stem cells (CSC), which is involved not only in tumor recurrence but also in tumorigenicity, metastization and drug resistance. Several markers have been used to identify putative CSC sub-populations in different cancers. Notwithstanding, it has been acknowledged that breast CSC may originate from non-stem cancer cells (non-SCC), interconverting through an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-mediated process, and presenting several deregulated canonical and developmental signaling pathways. These support the heterogeneity that, directly or indirectly, influences fundamental biological features supporting breast tumor development. Accordingly, CSC have increasingly become highly relevant cellular targets. In this review, we will address the stemness concept in cancer, setting the perspective on CSC and their origin, by exploring their relation and regulation within the tumor microenvironment, in the context of emerging therapeutic targets. Within this framework, we will discuss nucleolin, a protein that has been associated with angiogenesis and, more recently, with the stemness phenotype, becoming a common denominator between CSC and non-SCC for multicellular targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno A Fonseca
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Ana Filipa Cruz
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Vera Moura
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; TREAT U, SA - Parque Industrial de Taveiro, Lote 44, 3045-508 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Sérgio Simões
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - João Nuno Moreira
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
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23
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Kuang H, Ku SH, Kokkoli E. The design of peptide-amphiphiles as functional ligands for liposomal anticancer drug and gene delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2017; 110-111:80-101. [PMID: 27539561 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2016.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Revised: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Liposomal nanomedicine has led to clinically useful cancer therapeutics like Doxil and DaunoXome. In addition, peptide-functionalized liposomes represent an effective drug and gene delivery vehicle with increased cancer cell specificity, enhanced tumor-penetrating ability and high tumor growth inhibition. The goal of this article is to review the recently published literature of the peptide-amphiphiles that were used to functionalize liposomes, to highlight successful designs that improved drug and gene delivery to cancer cells in vitro, and cancer tumors in vivo, and to discuss the current challenges of designing these peptide-decorated liposomes for effective cancer treatment.
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24
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Ma YY, Mou XZ, Ding YH, Zou H, Huang DS. Delivery systems of ceramide in targeted cancer therapy: ceramide alone or in combination with other anti-tumor agents. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2016; 13:1397-406. [PMID: 27168034 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2016.1188803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Yu Ma
- Clinical Research Institute, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
- Medical School and Jiangsu Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Zhou Mou
- Clinical Research Institute, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ya-Hui Ding
- Department of Cardiology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hai Zou
- Department of Cardiology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Huang
- Clinical Research Institute, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
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25
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Sriraman SK, Pan J, Sarisozen C, Luther E, Torchilin V. Enhanced Cytotoxicity of Folic Acid-Targeted Liposomes Co-Loaded with C6 Ceramide and Doxorubicin: In Vitro Evaluation on HeLa, A2780-ADR, and H69-AR Cells. Mol Pharm 2016; 13:428-37. [PMID: 26702994 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.5b00663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Current research in cancer therapy is beginning to shift toward the use of combinational drug treatment regimens. However, the efficient delivery of drug combinations is governed by a number of complex factors in the clinical setting. Therefore, the ability to synchronize the pharmacokinetics of the individual therapeutic agents present in combination not only to allow for simultaneous tumor accumulation but also to allow for a synergistic relationship at the intracellular level could prove to be advantageous. In this work, we report the development of a novel folic acid-targeted liposomal formulation simultaneously co-loaded with C6 ceramide and doxorubicin [FA-(C6+Dox)-LP]. In vitro cytotoxicity assays showed that the FA-(C6+Dox)-LP was able to significantly reduce the IC50 of Dox when compared to that after the treatment with the doxorubicin-loaded liposomes (Dox-LP) as well as the untargeted drug co-loaded (C6+Dox)-LP on HeLa, A2780-ADR, and H69-AR cells. The analysis of the cell cycle distribution showed that while the C6 liposomes (C6-LP) did not cause cell cycle arrest, all the Dox-containing liposomes mediated cell cycle arrest in HeLa cells in the G2 phase at Dox concentrations of 0.3 and 1 μM and in the S phase at the higher concentrations. It was also found that this arrest in the S phase precedes the progression of the cells to apoptosis. The targeted FA-(C6+Dox)-LP were able to significantly enhance the induction of apoptotic events in HeLa cell monolayers as compared to the other treatment groups. Next, using time-lapse phase holographic imaging microscopy, it was found that upon treatment with the FA-(C6+Dox)-LP, the HeLa cells underwent rapid progression to apoptosis after 21 h as evidenced by a drastic drop in the average area of the cells after loss of cell membrane integrity. Finally, upon evaluation in a HeLa spheroid cell model, treatment with the FA-(C6+Dox)-LP showed significantly higher levels of cell death compared to those with C6-LP and Dox-LP. Overall, this study clearly shows that the co-delivery of C6 ceramide and Dox using a liposomal platform significantly correlates with an antiproliferative effect due to cell cycle regulation and subsequent induction of apoptosis and thus warrants its further evaluation in preclinical animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shravan Kumar Sriraman
- Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Jiayi Pan
- Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Can Sarisozen
- Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Ed Luther
- Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Vladimir Torchilin
- Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University , Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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26
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Fonseca NA, Rodrigues AS, Rodrigues-Santos P, Alves V, Gregório AC, Valério-Fernandes Â, Gomes-da-Silva LC, Rosa MS, Moura V, Ramalho-Santos J, Simões S, Moreira JN. Nucleolin overexpression in breast cancer cell sub-populations with different stem-like phenotype enables targeted intracellular delivery of synergistic drug combination. Biomaterials 2015; 69:76-88. [PMID: 26283155 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 08/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (CSC) are thought responsible for tumor growth and relapse, metastization and active evasion to standard chemotherapy. The recognition that CSC may originate from non-stem cancer cells (non-SCC) through plastic epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition turned these into relevant cell targets. Of crucial importance for successful therapeutic intervention is the identification of surface receptors overexpressed in both CSC and non-SCC. Cell surface nucleolin has been described as overexpressed in cancer cells as well as a tumor angiogenic marker. Herein we have addressed the questions on whether nucleolin was a common receptor among breast CSC and non-SCC and whether it could be exploited for targeting purposes. Liposomes functionalized with the nucleolin-binding F3 peptide, targeted simultaneously, nucleolin-overexpressing putative breast CSC and non-SCC, which was paralleled by OCT4 and NANOG mRNA levels in cells from triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) origin. In murine embryonic stem cells, both nucleolin mRNA levels and F3 peptide-targeted liposomes cellular association were dependent on the stemness status. An in vivo tumorigenic assay suggested that surface nucleolin overexpression per se, could be associated with the identification of highly tumorigenic TNBC cells. This proposed link between nucleolin expression and the stem-like phenotype in TNBC, enabled 100% cell death mediated by F3 peptide-targeted synergistic drug combination, suggesting the potential to abrogate the plasticity and adaptability associated with CSC and non-SCC. Ultimately, nucleolin-specific therapeutic tools capable of simultaneous debulk multiple cellular compartments of the tumor microenvironment may pave the way towards a specific treatment for TNBC patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno A Fonseca
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Ana S Rodrigues
- PhD Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Paulo Rodrigues-Santos
- Immunology Institute, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; Immunology and Oncology Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Vera Alves
- Immunology Institute, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Ana C Gregório
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; PhD Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Casa Costa Alemão (Polo II), Rua Dom Francisco de Lemos, Coimbra 3030-789, Portugal
| | - Ângela Valério-Fernandes
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; PhD Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Casa Costa Alemão (Polo II), Rua Dom Francisco de Lemos, Coimbra 3030-789, Portugal
| | - Lígia C Gomes-da-Silva
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal; PhD Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Manuel Santos Rosa
- Immunology Institute, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Vera Moura
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; TREAT U, S.A., Parque Industrial de Taveiro, Lote 44, Coimbra 3045-508, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra 3000-456, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Simões
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal
| | - João Nuno Moreira
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo I), Rua Larga, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; FFUC - Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal.
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27
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Linton SS, Sherwood SG, Drews KC, Kester M. Targeting cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment: opportunities and challenges in combinatorial nanomedicine. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2015; 8:208-22. [PMID: 26153136 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Revised: 05/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer therapies of the future will rely on synergy between drugs delivered in combination to achieve both maximum efficacy and decreased toxicity. Nanoscale drug delivery vehicles composed of highly tunable nanomaterials ('nanocarriers') represent the most promising approach to achieve simultaneous, cell-selective delivery of synergistic ratios of combinations of drugs within solid tumors. Nanocarriers are currently being used to co-encapsulate and deliver synergistic ratios of multiple anticancer drugs to target cells within solid tumors. Investigators exploit the unique environment associated with solid tumors, termed the tumor microenvironment (TME), to make 'smart' nanocarriers. These sophisticated nanocarriers exploit the pathological conditions in the TME, thereby creating highly targeted nanocarriers that release their drug payload in a spatially and temporally controlled manner. The translational and commercial potential of nanocarrier-based combinatorial nanomedicines in cancer therapy is now a reality as several companies have initiated human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel S Linton
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Samantha G Sherwood
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Kelly C Drews
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Mark Kester
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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28
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Su X, Song H, Niu F, Yang K, Kou G, Wang X, Chen H, Li W, Guo S, Li J, Li B, Feng SS, Jiang J, Yin C, Gao J. Co-delivery of doxorubicin and PEGylated C16-ceramide by nanoliposomes for enhanced therapy against multidrug resistance. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2015; 10:2033-50. [PMID: 26084553 DOI: 10.2217/nnm.15.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To develop novel nanoliposomes (Lip-ADR-Cer) codelivering doxorubicin (ADR) and PEGylated C16 ceramide (PEG-ceramide C16) to overcome multidrug resistance. Materials & methods: The antitumor activity and mechanism of Lip-ADR-Cer were evaluated. Results & conclusion: The IC50 of Lip-ADR-Cer after 48-h treatment with the MCF-7/ADR and HL-60/ADR cancer cells, both being ADR resistant, was 2.2- and 1.4-fold effective respectively versus the general nanoliposomes with no PEG-ceramide C16 (Lip-ADR). The antitumor assay in mice bearing MCF-7/ADR or HL-60/ADR xenograft tumors confirmed the superior antitumor activity of Lip-ADR-Cer over Lip-ADR. We found that the improved therapeutic effect of Lip-ADR-Cer may be attributed to both of the cytotoxic effect of PEG-ceramide C16 and glucosylceramide synthase overexpression in multidrug resistance cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Su
- International Joint Cancer Institute, Second Military Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hao Song
- International Joint Cancer Institute, Second Military Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
- College of Pharmacy, Liaocheng University, 1 Hu'nan Road, Liaocheng, Shandong 25200, PR China
- Centre for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Liaocheng People's Hospital, 67 Dongchang West Road, Liaocheng, Shangdong 252000, China
| | - Fangfang Niu
- International Joint Cancer Institute, Second Military Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Kaixuan Yang
- International Joint Cancer Institute, Second Military Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Geng Kou
- International Joint Cancer Institute, Second Military Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
- College of Pharmacy, Liaocheng University, 1 Hu'nan Road, Liaocheng, Shandong 25200, PR China
| | - Xiaohang Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Huaiwen Chen
- International Joint Cancer Institute, Second Military Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Wei Li
- International Joint Cancer Institute, Second Military Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
- College of Pharmacy, Liaocheng University, 1 Hu'nan Road, Liaocheng, Shandong 25200, PR China
| | - Shangjing Guo
- College of Pharmacy, Liaocheng University, 1 Hu'nan Road, Liaocheng, Shandong 25200, PR China
| | - Jun Li
- College of Pharmacy, Liaocheng University, 1 Hu'nan Road, Liaocheng, Shandong 25200, PR China
| | - Bohua Li
- International Joint Cancer Institute, Second Military Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
- College of Pharmacy, Liaocheng University, 1 Hu'nan Road, Liaocheng, Shandong 25200, PR China
| | - Si-shen Feng
- International Joint Cancer Institute, Second Military Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Block E5, 02–11, 4 Engineering Drive 4, Singapore 117576, Singapore
- Suzhou NanoStar Biopharm Inc Ltd, BioBay, Bld B2, Unit 604, 218 Xing-Hu Street, Suzhou Industrial Park, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jianxin Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hubei Province Tumor Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, China
| | - Chuan Yin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Jie Gao
- International Joint Cancer Institute, Second Military Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
- College of Pharmacy, Liaocheng University, 1 Hu'nan Road, Liaocheng, Shandong 25200, PR China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
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