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Medina Pérez VM, Baselga M, Schuhmacher AJ. Single-Domain Antibodies as Antibody-Drug Conjugates: From Promise to Practice-A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2681. [PMID: 39123409 PMCID: PMC11311928 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16152681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) represent potent cancer therapies that deliver highly toxic drugs to tumor cells precisely, thus allowing for targeted treatment and significantly reducing off-target effects. Despite their effectiveness, ADCs can face limitations due to acquired resistance and potential side effects. OBJECTIVES This study focuses on advances in various ADC components to improve both the efficacy and safety of these agents, and includes the analysis of several novel ADC formats. This work assesses whether the unique features of VHHs-such as their small size, enhanced tissue penetration, stability, and cost-effectiveness-make them a viable alternative to conventional antibodies for ADCs and reviews their current status in ADC development. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, this study focused on VHHs as components of ADCs, examining advancements and prospects from 1 January 2014 to 30 June 2024. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect and LILACS using specific terms related to ADCs and single-domain antibodies. Retrieved articles were rigorously evaluated, excluding duplicates and non-qualifying studies. The selected peer-reviewed articles were analyzed for quality and synthesized to highlight advancements, methods, payloads, and future directions in ADC research. RESULTS VHHs offer significant advantages for drug conjugation over conventional antibodies due to their smaller size and structure, which enhance tissue penetration and enable access to previously inaccessible epitopes. Their superior stability, solubility, and manufacturability facilitate cost-effective production and expand the range of targetable antigens. Additionally, some VHHs can naturally cross the blood-brain barrier or be easily modified to favor their penetration, making them promising for targeting brain tumors and metastases. Although no VHH-drug conjugates (nADC or nanoADC) are currently in the clinical arena, preclinical studies have explored various conjugation methods and linkers. CONCLUSIONS While ADCs are transforming cancer treatment, their unique mechanisms and associated toxicities challenge traditional views on bioavailability and vary with different tumor types. Severe toxicities, often linked to compound instability, off-target effects, and nonspecific blood cell interactions, highlight the need for better understanding. Conversely, the rapid distribution, tumor penetration, and clearance of VHHs could be advantageous, potentially reducing toxicity by minimizing prolonged exposure. These attributes make single-domain antibodies strong candidates for the next generation of ADCs, potentially enhancing both efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor Manuel Medina Pérez
- Molecular Oncology Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Marta Baselga
- Molecular Oncology Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Alberto J. Schuhmacher
- Molecular Oncology Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
- Fundación Aragonesa para la Investigación y el Desarrollo (ARAID), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
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2
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Hennigan JN, Menacho-Melgar R, Sarkar P, Golovsky M, Lynch MD. Scalable, robust, high-throughput expression & purification of nanobodies enabled by 2-stage dynamic control. Metab Eng 2024; 85:116-130. [PMID: 39059674 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2024.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Nanobodies are single-domain antibody fragments that have garnered considerable use as diagnostic and therapeutic agents as well as research tools. However, obtaining pure VHHs, like many proteins, can be laborious and inconsistent. High level cytoplasmic expression in E. coli can be challenging due to improper folding and insoluble aggregation caused by reduction of the conserved disulfide bond. We report a systems engineering approach leveraging engineered strains of E. coli, in combination with a two-stage process and simplified downstream purification, enabling improved, robust, soluble cytoplasmic nanobody expression, as well as rapid cell autolysis and purification. This approach relies on the dynamic control over the reduction potential of the cytoplasm, incorporates lysis enzymes for purification, and can also integrate dynamic expression of protein folding catalysts. Collectively, the engineered system results in more robust growth and protein expression, enabling efficient scalable nanobody production, and purification from high throughput microtiter plates, to routine shake flask cultures and larger instrumented bioreactors. We expect this system will expedite VHH development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Payel Sarkar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Michael D Lynch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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3
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Wang WC, Chang J, Lee CH, Chiang YW, Leu SJ, Mao YC, Chiang JR, Yang CK, Wu CJ, Yang YY. Phage display-derived alpaca nanobodies as potential therapeutics for Naja atra snake envenomation. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024:e0012124. [PMID: 38980046 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00121-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Naja atra, the Chinese cobra, is a major cause of snake envenomation in Asia, causing hundreds of thousands of clinical incidents annually. The current treatment, horse serum-derived antivenom, has unpredictable side effects and presents manufacturing challenges. This study focused on developing new-generation snake venom antidotes by using microbial phage display technology to derive nanobodies from an alpaca immunized with attenuated N. atra venom. Following confirmation of the immune response in the alpaca, we amplified VHH genes from isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells and constructed a phage display VHH library of 1.0 × 107 transformants. After four rounds of biopanning, the enriched phages exhibited increased binding activity to N. atra venom. Four nanobody clones with high binding affinities were selected: aNAH1, aNAH6, aNAH7, and aNAH9. Specificity testing against venom from various snake species, including two Southeast Asian cobra species, revealed nanobodies specific to the genus Naja. An in vivo mouse venom neutralization assay demonstrated that all nanobodies prolonged mouse survival and aNAH6 protected 66.6% of the mice from the lethal dosage. These findings highlight the potential of phage display-derived nanobodies as valuable antidotes for N. atra venom, laying the groundwork for future applications in snakebite treatment.IMPORTANCEChinese cobra venom bites present a formidable medical challenge, and current serum treatments face unresolved issues. Our research applied microbial phage display technology to obtain a new, effective, and cost-efficient treatment approach. Despite interest among scientists in utilizing this technology to screen alpaca antibodies against toxins, the available literature is limited. This study makes a significant contribution by introducing neutralizing antibodies that are specifically tailored to Chinese cobra venom. We provide a comprehensive and unbiased account of the antibody construction process, accompanied by thorough testing of various nanobodies and an assessment of cross-reactivity with diverse snake venoms. These nanobodies represent a promising avenue for targeted antivenom development that bridges microbiology and biotechnology to address critical health needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chu Wang
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jungshan Chang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- International Master/Ph.D. Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- International Ph.D. Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hsin Lee
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Core Laboratory of Antibody Generation and Research, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wei Chiang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Foundation for Poison Control, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sy-Jye Leu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yan-Chiao Mao
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Centre, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Division of Clinical Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Ron Chiang
- Bioproduction Plants, National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Kai Yang
- Interdisciplinary Research on Ecology and Sustainability, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Jung Wu
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Yuan Yang
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Core Laboratory of Antibody Generation and Research, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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4
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Park C, Kim K, Kim Y, Zhu R, Hain L, Seferovic H, Kim MH, Woo HJ, Hwang H, Lee SH, Kim S, Lee JE, Hinterdorfer P, Ko K, Park S, Oh YJ. Plant-Derived Anti-Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 Antibody Suppresses Trastuzumab-Resistant Breast Cancer with Enhanced Nanoscale Binding. ACS NANO 2024; 18:16126-16140. [PMID: 38764224 PMCID: PMC11210341 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c00360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Traditional monoclonal antibodies such as Trastuzumab encounter limitations when treating Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer, particularly in cases that develop resistance. This study introduces plant-derived anti-HER2 variable fragments of camelid heavy chain domain (VHH) fragment crystallizable region (Fc) KEDL(K) antibody as a potent alternative for overcoming these limitations. A variety of biophysical techniques, in vitro assays, and in vivo experiments uncover the antibody's nanoscale binding dynamics with transmembrane HER2 on living cells. Single-molecule force spectroscopy reveals the rapid formation of two robust bonds, exhibiting approximately 50 pN force resistance and bond lifetimes in the second range. The antibody demonstrates a specific affinity for HER2-positive breast cancer cells, including those that are Trastuzumab-resistant. Moreover, in immune-deficient mice, the plant-derived anti-HER2 VHH-FcK antibody exhibits superior antitumor activity, especially against tumors that are resistant to Trastuzumab. These findings underscore the plant-derived antibody's potential as an impactful immunotherapeutic strategy for treating Trastuzumab-resistant HER2-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanyong Park
- School
of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan
University, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Kibum Kim
- Department
of Medicine, Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Yerin Kim
- Department
of Medicine, Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Rong Zhu
- Department
of Applied Experimental Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Lisa Hain
- Department
of Applied Experimental Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Hannah Seferovic
- Department
of Applied Experimental Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Min-Hyeok Kim
- School
of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan
University, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Hyun Joo Woo
- Major
of Nano-Bioengineering, College of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea
| | - Hyunju Hwang
- Department
of Medicine, Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Seung Ho Lee
- Major
of Nano-Bioengineering, College of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea
| | - Sangmin Kim
- Department
of Breast Cancer Center, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Korea
| | - Jeong Eon Lee
- Division
of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Korea
| | - Peter Hinterdorfer
- Department
of Applied Experimental Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Kisung Ko
- Department
of Medicine, Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Sungsu Park
- School
of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan
University, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Yoo Jin Oh
- Department
of Applied Experimental Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4040 Linz, Austria
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Kwon BJ, Cho NH, Ahn T, Kim G, Diệu NTX, Kim WT, Cho HJ, Seo DH, Kim JY. Nicotiana benthamiana-derived dupilumab-scFv reaches deep into the cultured human nasal epithelial cells and inhibits CCL26 expression. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14558. [PMID: 38914666 PMCID: PMC11196582 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65524-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Plants offer a cost-effective and scalable pharmaceutical platform devoid of host-derived contamination risks. However, their medical application is complicated by the potential for acute allergic reactions to external proteins. Developing plant-based protein therapeutics for localized diseases with non-invasive treatment modalities may capitalize on the benefits of plant proteins while avoiding their inherent risks. Dupilumab, which is effective against a variety of allergic and autoimmune diseases but has systemic responses and injection-related side effects, may be more beneficial if delivered locally using a small biological form. In this study, we engineered a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) of dupilumab, termed Dup-scFv produced by Nicotiana benthamiana, and evaluated its tissue permeability and anti-inflammatory efficacy in air-liquid interface cultured human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs). Despite showing 3.67- and 17-fold lower binding affinity for IL-4Ra in surface plasmon resonance assays and cell binding assays, respectively, Dup-scFv retained most of the affinity of dupilumab, which was originally high, with a dissociation constant (KD) of 4.76 pM. In HNECs cultured at the air-liquid interface, Dup-scFv administered on the air side inhibited the inflammatory marker CCL26 in hard-to-reach basal cells more effectively than dupilumab. In addition, Dup-scFv had an overall permeability of 0.8% across cell layers compared to undetectable levels of dupilumab. These findings suggest that plant-produced Dup-scFv can be delivered non-invasively to cultured HNESc to alleviate inflammatory signaling, providing a practical approach to utilize plant-based proteins for topical therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beom Jun Kwon
- Department of Pharmacology and Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Na Hyun Cho
- Department of Pharmacology and Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Systems Biology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Taeyoung Ahn
- Department of Pharmacology and Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Geunah Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Nguyễn Thị Xuân Diệu
- Department of Pharmacology and Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Woo Taek Kim
- Department of Systems Biology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Ju Cho
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Hye Seo
- Department of Systems Biology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| | - Joo Young Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
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Wang Y, Chen J, Zhang S, Jiang H, Zhu J, Jiang G, Liu Y, Zhu Y, Li J. Bispecific Nanobody-Aptamer Conjugates for Enhanced Cancer Therapy in Solid Tumors. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2308265. [PMID: 38225704 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202308265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Bispecific antibodies possess exceptional potential as therapeutic agents due to their capacity to bind to two different antigens simultaneously. However, challenges pertain to unsatisfactory stability, manufacturing complexity, and limited tumor penetration hinder their broad applicability. In this study, a versatile technology is presented for the rapid generation of bispecific nanobody-aptamer conjugates with efficient tumor penetration. The approach utilizes microbial transglutaminase (MTGase) and click chemistry to achieve site-specific conjugation of nanobodies and aptamers, which are termed nanotamers. The nanotamers recognize and bind to two types of molecular targets expressed on cancer cells. As a prototype, a bispecific nanotamer is developed that binds both clusters of differentiation 47 (CD47) and mesenchymal epithelial transition receptor (Met) expressed on the tumor cell membrane. This CD47-Met nanotamer demonstrates high affinity and specificity toward tumor cells expressing both targets, exhibits improved receptor functional inhibition through a strong steric hindrance effect. Moreover, its capacity for deep tumor penetration greatly enhances the impact of conventional chemotherapy on antitumor efficacy. The as-developed nanotamer synthesis approach shows promise to customize bispecific molecular probes targeting different cancer types and different therapeutic goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Wang
- School of Chemistry and Materials, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, The Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Aptamers and Theranostics, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Jie Chen
- School of Chemistry and Materials, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Sen Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Materials, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, The Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Aptamers and Theranostics, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Hang Jiang
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, The Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Aptamers and Theranostics, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Jianqing Zhu
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, The Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Aptamers and Theranostics, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Guangyi Jiang
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, The Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Aptamers and Theranostics, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Yichang Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Yingdi Zhu
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, The Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Aptamers and Theranostics, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Juan Li
- School of Chemistry and Materials, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, The Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Aptamers and Theranostics, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
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Wu Y, Zhu M, Sun B, Chen Y, Huang Y, Gai J, Li G, Li Y, Wan Y, Ma L. A humanized trivalent Nectin-4-targeting nanobody drug conjugate displays potent antitumor activity in gastric cancer. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:256. [PMID: 38755613 PMCID: PMC11097425 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02521-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer represents a highly lethal malignancy with an elevated mortality rate among cancer patients, coupled with a suboptimal postoperative survival prognosis. Nectin-4, an overexpressed oncological target for various cancers, has been exploited to create antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) to treat solid tumors. However, there is limited research on Nectin-4 ADCs specifically for gastric cancer, and conventional immunoglobulin G (IgG)-based ADCs frequently encounter binding site barriers. Based on the excellent tumor penetration capabilities inherent in nanobodies (Nbs), we developed Nectin-4-targeting Nb drug conjugates (NDCs) for the treatment of gastric cancer. RESULTS An immunized phage display library was established and employed for the selection of Nectin-4-specific Nbs using phage display technology. Subsequently, these Nbs were engineered into homodimers to enhance Nb affinity. To prolong in vivo half-life and reduce immunogenicity, we fused an Nb targeting human serum albumin (HSA), resulting in the development of trivalent humanized Nbs. Further, we site-specifically conjugated a monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) at the C-terminus of the trivalent Nbs, creating Nectin-4 NDC (huNb26/Nb26-Nbh-MMAE) with a drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR) of 1. Nectin-4 NDC demonstrated excellent in vitro cell-binding activities and cytotoxic efficacy against cells with high Nectin-4 expression. Subsequent administration of Nectin-4 NDC to mice bearing NCI-N87 human gastric cancer xenografts demonstrated rapid tissue penetration and high tumor uptake through in vivo imaging. Moreover, Nectin-4 NDC exhibited noteworthy dose-dependent anti-tumor efficacy in in vivo studies. CONCLUSION We have engineered a Nectin-4 NDC with elevated affinity and effective tumor uptake, further establishing its potential as a therapeutic agent for gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wu
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Zhu
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Baihe Sun
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongting Chen
- Graduate School of Xinxiang Medical University, Henan, China
| | - Yuping Huang
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Junwei Gai
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Guanghui Li
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Yanfei Li
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China.
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yakun Wan
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China.
| | - Linlin Ma
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China.
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.
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8
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Fu C, Tong W, Yu L, Miao Y, Wei Q, Yu Z, Chen B, Wei M. When will the immune-stimulating antibody conjugates (ISACs) be transferred from bench to bedside? Pharmacol Res 2024; 203:107160. [PMID: 38547937 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
Immunostimulatory antibody conjugates (ISACs) as a promising new generation of targeted therapeutic antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), that not only activate innate immunity but also stimulate adaptive immunity, providing a dual therapeutic effect to eliminate tumor cells. However, several ISACs are still in the early stages of clinical development or have already failed. Therefore, it is crucial to design ISACs more effectively to overcome their limitations, including high toxicity, strong immunogenicity, long development time, and poor pharmacokinetics. This review aims to summarize the composition and function of ISACs, incorporating current design considerations and ongoing clinical trials. Additionally, the review delves into the current issues with ISACs and potential solutions, such as adjusting the drug-antibody ratio (DAR) to improve the bioavailability of ISACs. By leveraging the affinity and bioavailability-enhancing properties of bispecific antibodies, the utility between antibodies and immunostimulatory agents can be balanced. Commonly used immunostimulatory agents may induce systemic immune reactions, and BTK (Bruton's tyrosine kinase) inhibitors can regulate immunogenicity. Finally, the concept of grafting ADC's therapeutic principles is simple, but the combination of payload, linker, and targeted functional molecules is not a simple permutation and combination problem. The development of conjugate drugs faces more complex pharmacological and toxicological issues. Standing on the shoulders of ADC, the development and application scenarios of ISAC are endowed with broader space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Fu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China
| | - Weiwei Tong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China
| | - Lifeng Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China
| | - Yuxi Miao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China
| | - Qian Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China
| | - Zhaojin Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China.
| | - Bo Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, No. 155, Nanjing North Street, Shenyang 110122, PR China.
| | - Minjie Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, PR China.
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9
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Lee HE, Cho AH, Hwang JH, Kim JW, Yang HR, Ryu T, Jung Y, Lee S. Development, High-Throughput Profiling, and Biopanning of a Large Phage Display Single-Domain Antibody Library. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4791. [PMID: 38732011 PMCID: PMC11083953 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin G-based monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been effective in treating various diseases, but their large molecular size can limit their penetration of tissue and efficacy in multifactorial diseases, necessitating the exploration of alternative forms. In this study, we constructed a phage display library comprising single-domain antibodies (sdAbs; or "VHHs"), known for their small size and remarkable stability, using a total of 1.6 × 109 lymphocytes collected from 20 different alpacas, resulting in approximately 7.16 × 1010 colonies. To assess the quality of the constructed library, next-generation sequencing-based high-throughput profiling was performed, analyzing approximately 5.65 × 106 full-length VHH sequences, revealing 92% uniqueness and confirming the library's diverse composition. Systematic characterization of the library revealed multiple sdAbs with high affinity for three therapeutically relevant antigens. In conclusion, our alpaca sdAb phage display library provides a versatile resource for diagnostics and therapeutics. Furthermore, the library's vast natural VHH antibody repertoire offers insights for generating humanized synthetic sdAb libraries, further advancing sdAb-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Eon Lee
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea; (H.E.L.); (A.H.C.); (J.H.H.); (J.W.K.); (H.R.Y.)
| | - Ah Hyun Cho
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea; (H.E.L.); (A.H.C.); (J.H.H.); (J.W.K.); (H.R.Y.)
| | - Jae Hyeon Hwang
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea; (H.E.L.); (A.H.C.); (J.H.H.); (J.W.K.); (H.R.Y.)
| | - Ji Woong Kim
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea; (H.E.L.); (A.H.C.); (J.H.H.); (J.W.K.); (H.R.Y.)
| | - Ha Rim Yang
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea; (H.E.L.); (A.H.C.); (J.H.H.); (J.W.K.); (H.R.Y.)
| | - Taehoon Ryu
- ATG Lifetech Inc., Seoul 08507, Republic of Korea; (T.R.); (Y.J.)
| | - Yushin Jung
- ATG Lifetech Inc., Seoul 08507, Republic of Korea; (T.R.); (Y.J.)
| | - Sukmook Lee
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea; (H.E.L.); (A.H.C.); (J.H.H.); (J.W.K.); (H.R.Y.)
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea
- Antibody Research Institute, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea
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10
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Stenger TD, Miller JS. Therapeutic approaches to enhance natural killer cell cytotoxicity. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1356666. [PMID: 38545115 PMCID: PMC10966407 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1356666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhancing the cytotoxicity of natural killer (NK) cells has emerged as a promising strategy in cancer immunotherapy, due to their pivotal role in immune surveillance and tumor clearance. This literature review provides a comprehensive overview of therapeutic approaches designed to augment NK cell cytotoxicity. We analyze a wide range of strategies, including cytokine-based treatment, monoclonal antibodies, and NK cell engagers, and discuss criteria that must be considered when selecting an NK cell product to combine with these strategies. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges and limitations associated with each therapeutic strategy, as well as the potential for combination therapies to maximize NK cell cytotoxicity while minimizing adverse effects. By exploring the wealth of research on this topic, this literature review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers and clinicians seeking to develop and implement novel therapeutic strategies that harness the full potential of NK cells in the fight against cancer. Enhancing NK cell cytotoxicity holds great promise in the evolving landscape of immunotherapy, and this review serves as a roadmap for understanding the current state of the field and the future directions in NK cell-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terran D. Stenger
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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11
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Abdolvahab MH, Karimi P, Mohajeri N, Abedini M, Zare H. Targeted drug delivery using nanobodies to deliver effective molecules to breast cancer cells: the most attractive application of nanobodies. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:67. [PMID: 38341580 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03259-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeted drug delivery is one of the attractive ways in which cancer treatment can significantly reduce side effects. In the last two decades, the use of antibodies as a tool for accurate detection of cancer has been noted. On the other hand, the binding of drugs and carriers containing drugs to the specific antibodies of cancer cells can specifically target only these cells. However, the use of whole antibodies brings challenges, including their large size, the complexity of conjugation, the high cost of production, and the creation of immunogenic reactions in the body. The use of nanobodies, or VHHs, which are a small part of camel heavy chain antibodies, is very popular due to their small size, high craftsmanship, and low production cost. In this article, in addition to a brief overview of the structure and characteristics of nanobodies, the use of this molecule in the targeted drug delivery of breast cancer has been reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohadeseh Haji Abdolvahab
- Recombinant Proteins Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pegah Karimi
- Recombinant Proteins Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasrin Mohajeri
- Recombinant Proteins Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abedini
- Recombinant Proteins Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Zare
- Recombinant Proteins Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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12
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Sitkov N, Ryabko A, Moshnikov V, Aleshin A, Kaplun D, Zimina T. Hybrid Impedimetric Biosensors for Express Protein Markers Detection. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:181. [PMID: 38398911 PMCID: PMC10890403 DOI: 10.3390/mi15020181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Impedimetric biosensors represent a powerful and promising tool for studying and monitoring biological processes associated with proteins and can contribute to the development of new approaches in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. The basic principles, analytical methods, and applications of hybrid impedimetric biosensors for express protein detection in biological fluids are described. The advantages of this type of biosensors, such as simplicity and speed of operation, sensitivity and selectivity of analysis, cost-effectiveness, and an ability to be integrated into hybrid microfluidic systems, are demonstrated. Current challenges and development prospects in this area are analyzed. They include (a) the selection of materials for electrodes and formation of nanostructures on their surface; (b) the development of efficient methods for biorecognition elements' deposition on the electrodes' surface, providing the specificity and sensitivity of biosensing; (c) the reducing of nonspecific binding and interference, which could affect specificity; (d) adapting biosensors to real samples and conditions of operation; (e) expanding the range of detected proteins; and, finally, (f) the development of biosensor integration into large microanalytical system technologies. This review could be useful for researchers working in the field of impedimetric biosensors for protein detection, as well as for those interested in the application of this type of biosensor in biomedical diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita Sitkov
- Department of Micro and Nanoelectronics, Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University “LETI”, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (V.M.); (T.Z.)
- Engineering Centre for Microtechnology and Diagnostics, Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University “LETI”, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Andrey Ryabko
- Laboratory of Nonequilibrium Processes in Semiconductors, Ioffe Institute, 26 Politekhnicheskaya, 194021 Saint Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Vyacheslav Moshnikov
- Department of Micro and Nanoelectronics, Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University “LETI”, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (V.M.); (T.Z.)
| | - Andrey Aleshin
- Laboratory of Nonequilibrium Processes in Semiconductors, Ioffe Institute, 26 Politekhnicheskaya, 194021 Saint Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Dmitry Kaplun
- Artificial Intelligence Research Institute, China University of Mining and Technology, 1 Daxue Road, Xuzhou 221116, China;
- Department of Automation and Control Processes, Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University “LETI”, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Tatiana Zimina
- Department of Micro and Nanoelectronics, Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University “LETI”, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (V.M.); (T.Z.)
- Engineering Centre for Microtechnology and Diagnostics, Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University “LETI”, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
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13
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Cong Y, Devoogdt N, Lambin P, Dubois LJ, Yaromina A. Promising Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches Based on VHHs for Cancer Management. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:371. [PMID: 38254860 PMCID: PMC10814765 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of the distinctive structure of heavy chain-only antibodies in species belonging to the Camelidae family has elicited significant interest in their variable antigen binding domain (VHH) and gained attention for various applications, such as cancer diagnosis and treatment. This article presents an overview of the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of VHHs as compared to conventional antibodies, and their usage in diverse applications. The singular properties of VHHs are explained, and several strategies that can augment their utility are outlined. The preclinical studies illustrating the diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy of distinct VHHs in diverse formats against solid cancers are summarized, and an overview of the clinical trials assessing VHH-based agents in oncology is provided. These investigations demonstrate the enormous potential of VHHs for medical research and healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cong
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (Y.C.); (P.L.)
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Research Group (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Philippe Lambin
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (Y.C.); (P.L.)
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ludwig J. Dubois
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (Y.C.); (P.L.)
| | - Ala Yaromina
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW—School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (Y.C.); (P.L.)
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14
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Wu D, Huang Q, Sha S, Xue F, Huang G, Tian Q. Engineering of copper sulfide mediated by phototherapy performance. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 16:e1932. [PMID: 37853634 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Copper sulfide based phototherapy, including photothermal therapy and photodynamic therapy, is an emerging minimally invasive treatment of tumor, which the light was converted to heat or reactive oxygen to kill the tumor cells. Compared with conventional chemotherapy and radiation therapy, Cu2-x S based phototherapy is more efficient and has fewer side effects. However, considering the dose-dependent toxicity of Cu2-x S, the performance of Cu2-x S based phototherapy still cannot meet the requirement of the clinical application to now. To overcome this limitation, engineering of Cu2-x S to improve the phototherapy performance by increasing light absorption has attracted extensive attention. For better guidance of Cu2-x S engineering, we outline the currently engineering method being explored, including (1) structural engineering, (2) compositional engineering, (3) functional engineering, and (4) performance engineering. Also, the relationship between the engineering method and phototherapy performance was discussed in this review. In addition, the further development of Cu2-x S based phototherapy is prospected, including smart materials based phototherapy, phototherapy induced immune microenvironment modulation et al. This review will provide new ideas and opportunities for engineering of Cu2-x S with better phototherapy performance. This article is categorized under: Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingqing Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuang Sha
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Fengfeng Xue
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiwei Tian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
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15
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Gong L, Tian L, Cui K, Chen Y, Liu B, Li D, Feng Y, Yao S, Yin Y, Wu Z, Huang Z. An off-the-shelf small extracellular vesicle nanomedicine for tumor targeting therapy. J Control Release 2023; 364:672-686. [PMID: 37967724 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have shown excellent prospects as drug delivery systems for cancer therapy. However, the inherent non-targeting and short blood circulation characteristics severely restrict their practical applications as a delivery system. In addition, post-encapsulating drugs into sEVs also remains challenging. Here, we constructed an engineered cell line that secreted multifunctional sEVs (termed NBsEV204) with 7D12 (an anti-EGFR nanobody) and hCD47 decorations on their surface, as well as high levels of miR-204-5p encapsulation. NBsEV204 exhibited extended blood circulation and improved macrophage-mediated phagocytosis of tumor cells by blocking CD47 signaling. Importantly, NBsEV204 specifically targeted EGFR+ tumor cells and showed robust tumor-suppressive effects both in vitro and in vivo. Overall, this study provides a convenient and feasible method to produce off-the-shelf anticancer sEV nanomedicine, which exhibits tremendous potential for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Gong
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 214062 Wuxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry & Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lu Tian
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 214062 Wuxi, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Kaisa Cui
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 214062 Wuxi, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying Chen
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 214062 Wuxi, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bingxin Liu
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 214062 Wuxi, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Dan Li
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry & Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuyang Feng
- Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Surui Yao
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 214062 Wuxi, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuan Yin
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 214062 Wuxi, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhimeng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry & Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhaohui Huang
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 214062 Wuxi, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, 214122 Wuxi, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Li Y, Wang J. Site-specifically radiolabeled nanobodies for imaging blood-brain barrier penetration and targeting in the brain. J Labelled Comp Radiopharm 2023; 66:444-451. [PMID: 37873934 PMCID: PMC10842159 DOI: 10.1002/jlcr.4069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Nanobodies (Nbs) hold significant potential in molecular imaging due to their unique characteristics. However, there are challenges to overcome when it comes to brain imaging. To address these obstacles, collaborative efforts and interdisciplinary research are needed. This article aims to raise awareness and encourage collaboration among researchers from various fields to find solutions for effective brain imaging using Nbs. By fostering cooperation and knowledge sharing, we can make progress in overcoming the existing limitations and pave the way for improved molecular imaging techniques in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingbo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Junfeng Wang
- Gordon Center for Medical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital & Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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17
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Voltà-Durán E, Alba-Castellón L, Serna N, Casanova I, López-Laguna H, Gallardo A, Sánchez-Chardi A, Villaverde A, Unzueta U, Vázquez E, Mangues R. High-precision targeting and destruction of cancer-associated PDGFR-β + stromal fibroblasts through self-assembling, protein-only nanoparticles. Acta Biomater 2023; 170:543-555. [PMID: 37683965 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
The need for more effective and precision medicines for cancer has pushed the exploration of new materials appropriate for drug delivery and imaging, and alternative receptors for targeting. Among the most promising strategies, finding suitable cell surface receptors and targeting agents for cancer-associated platelet derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFR-β)+ stromal fibroblasts is highly appealing. As a neglected target, this cell type mechanically and biologically supports the growth, progression, and infiltration of solid tumors in non-small cell lung, breast, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. We have developed a family of PDGFR-β-targeted nanoparticles based on biofabricated, self-assembling proteins, upon hierarchical and iterative selective processes starting from four initial candidates. The modular protein PDGFD-GFP-H6 is well produced in recombinant bacteria, resulting in structurally robust oligomeric particles that selectively penetrates into PDGFR-β+ stromal fibroblasts in a dose-dependent manner, by means of the PDGFR-β ligand PDGFD. Upon in vivo administration, these GFP-carrying protein nanoparticles precisely accumulate in tumor tissues and enlighten them for IVIS observation. When GFP is replaced by a microbial toxin, selective tumor tissue destruction is observed associated with a significant reduction in tumor volume growth. The presented data validate the PDGFR-β/PDGFD pair as a promising toolbox for targeted drug delivery in the tumor microenvironment and oligomeric protein nanoparticles as a powerful instrument to mediate highly selective biosafe targeting in cancer through non-cancer cells. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: We have developed a transversal platform for nanoparticle-based drug delivery into cancer-associated fibroblasts. This is based on the engineered modular protein PDGFD-GFP-H6 that spontaneously self-assemble and selectively penetrates into PDGFR-β+ stromal fibroblasts in a dose-dependent manner, by means of the PDGFR-β ligand PDGFD. In vivo, these protein nanoparticles accumulate in tumor and when incorporating a microbial toxin, they destroy tumor tissues with a significant reduction in tumor volume, in absence of side toxicities. The data presented here validate the PDGFR-β/PDGFD pair as a fully versatile toolbox for targeted drug delivery in the tumor microenvironment intended as a synergistic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Voltà-Durán
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain
| | - Lorena Alba-Castellón
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain; Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona 08041, Spain; Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Barcelona 08025, Spain.
| | - Naroa Serna
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain
| | - Isolda Casanova
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain; Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona 08041, Spain; Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Barcelona 08025, Spain
| | - Hèctor López-Laguna
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain
| | - Alberto Gallardo
- Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona 08041, Spain; Department of Pathology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona 08025, Spain
| | - Alejandro Sánchez-Chardi
- Departament de Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Av. Diagonal 643, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Antonio Villaverde
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain.
| | - Ugutz Unzueta
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain; Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona 08041, Spain; Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Barcelona 08025, Spain
| | - Esther Vázquez
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain
| | - Ramón Mangues
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain; Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona 08041, Spain; Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Barcelona 08025, Spain.
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18
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Bitsch P, Baum ES, Beltrán Hernández I, Bitsch S, Harwood J, Oliveira S, Kolmar H. Penetration of Nanobody-Dextran Polymer Conjugates through Tumor Spheroids. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2374. [PMID: 37896133 PMCID: PMC10609859 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Here we report the generation of nanobody dextran polymer conjugates (dextraknobs) that are loaded with small molecules, i.e., fluorophores or photosensitizers, for potential applications in cancer diagnostics and therapy. To this end, the molecules are conjugated to the dextran polymer which is coupled to the C-terminus of an EGFR-specific nanobody using chemoenzymatic approaches. A monovalent EGFR-targeted nanobody and biparatopic version modified with different dextran average molecular weights (1000, 5000, and 10,000) were probed for their ability to penetrate tumor spheroids. For monovalent Cy5-labeled dextraknobs, the utilization of smaller sized dextran (MW 5000 vs. 10,000) was found to be beneficial for more homogeneous penetration into A431 tumor spheroids over time. For the biparatopic dual nanobody comprising MW 1000, 5000, and 10,000 dextran labeled with photosensitizer IRDye700DX, penetration behavior was comparable to that of a direct nanobody-photosensitizer conjugate lacking a dextran scaffold. Additionally, dextraknobs labeled with IRDye700DX incubated with cells in 2D and 3D showed potent cell killing upon illumination, thus inducing photodynamic therapy (PDT). In line with previous results, monovalent nanobody conjugates displayed deeper and more homogenous penetration through spheroids than the bivalent conjugates. Importantly, the smaller size dextrans did not affect the distribution of the conjugates, thus encouraging further development of dextraknobs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Bitsch
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Str. 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany; (P.B.); (S.B.); (J.H.)
| | - Eva S. Baum
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; (E.S.B.); (I.B.H.)
| | - Irati Beltrán Hernández
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; (E.S.B.); (I.B.H.)
- Pharmaceutics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sebastian Bitsch
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Str. 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany; (P.B.); (S.B.); (J.H.)
| | - Jakob Harwood
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Str. 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany; (P.B.); (S.B.); (J.H.)
| | - Sabrina Oliveira
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; (E.S.B.); (I.B.H.)
- Pharmaceutics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Str. 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany; (P.B.); (S.B.); (J.H.)
- Centre of Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
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19
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Zeven K, De Groof TW, Ceuppens H, Awad RM, Ertveldt T, de Mey W, Meeus F, Raes G, Breckpot K, Devoogdt N. Development and evaluation of nanobody tracers for noninvasive nuclear imaging of the immune-checkpoint TIGIT. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1268900. [PMID: 37799715 PMCID: PMC10548220 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1268900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction T cell Ig and ITIM domain receptor (TIGIT) is a next-generation immune checkpoint predominantly expressed on activated T cells and NK cells, exhibiting an unfavorable prognostic association with various malignancies. Despite the emergence of multiple TIGIT-blocking agents entering clinical trials, only a fraction of patients responded positively to anti-TIGIT therapy. Consequently, an urgent demand arises for noninvasive techniques to quantify and monitor TIGIT expression, facilitating patient stratification and enhancing therapeutic outcomes. Small antigen binding moieties such as nanobodies, are promising candidates for such tracer development. Methods We generated a panel of anti-human or anti-mouse TIGIT nanobodies from immunized llamas. In addition, we designed a single-chain variable fragment derived from the clinically tested monoclonal antibody Vibostolimab targeting TIGIT, and assessed its performance alongside the nanobodies. In vitro characterization studies were performed, including binding ability and affinity to cell expressed or recombinant TIGIT. After Technetium-99m labeling, the nanobodies and the single-chain variable fragment were evaluated in vivo for their ability to detect TIGIT expression using SPECT/CT imaging, followed by ex vivo biodistribution analysis. Results Nine nanobodies were selected for binding to recombinant and cell expressed TIGIT with low sub-nanomolar affinities and are thermostable. A six-fold higher uptake in TIGIT-overexpressing tumor was demonstrated one hour post- injection with Technetium-99m labeled nanobodies compared to an irrelevant control nanobody. Though the single-chain variable fragment exhibited superior binding to TIGIT-expressing peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro, its in vivo behavior yielded lower tumor-to-background ratios at one hour post- injection, indicating that nanobodies are better suited for in vivo imaging than the single-chain variable fragment. Despite the good affinity, high specificity and on-target uptake in mice in this setting, imaging of TIGIT expression on tumor- infiltrating lymphocytes within MC38 tumors remained elusive. This is likely due to the low expression levels of TIGIT in this model. Discussion The excellent affinity, high specificity and rapid on-target uptake in mice bearing TIGIT- overexpressing tumors showed the promising diagnostic potential of nanobodies to noninvasively image high TIGIT expression within the tumor. These findings hold promise for clinical translation to aid patient selection and improve therapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katty Zeven
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Therapy (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Timo W.M. De Groof
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Therapy (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hannelore Ceuppens
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin Maximilian Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wout de Mey
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fien Meeus
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Geert Raes
- Laboratory for Cellular and Molecular Immunology (CMIM), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Lab, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Therapy (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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20
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Jumapili NA, Zivalj M, Barthelmess RM, Raes G, De Groof TWM, Devoogdt N, Stijlemans B, Vincke C, Van Ginderachter JA. A few good reasons to use nanobodies for cancer treatment. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2250024. [PMID: 37366246 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
mAbs have been instrumental for targeted cancer therapies. However, their relatively large size and physicochemical properties result in a heterogenous distribution in the tumor microenvironment, usually restricted to the first cell layers surrounding blood vessels, and a limited ability to penetrate the brain. Nanobodies are tenfold smaller, resulting in a deeper tumor penetration and the ability to reach cells in poorly perfused tumor areas. Nanobodies are rapidly cleared from the circulation, which generates a fast target-to-background contrast that is ideally suited for molecular imaging purposes but may be less optimal for therapy. To circumvent this problem, nanobodies have been formatted to noncovalently bind albumin, increasing their serum half-life without majorly increasing their size. Finally, nanobodies have shown superior qualities to infiltrate brain tumors as compared to mAbs. In this review, we discuss why these features make nanobodies prime candidates for targeted therapy of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neema Ahishakiye Jumapili
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maida Zivalj
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Romina Mora Barthelmess
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Geert Raes
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Timo W M De Groof
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Benoît Stijlemans
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cécile Vincke
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jo A Van Ginderachter
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
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21
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Kunz S, Durandy M, Seguin L, Feral CC. NANOBODY ® Molecule, a Giga Medical Tool in Nanodimensions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13229. [PMID: 37686035 PMCID: PMC10487883 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Although antibodies remain the most widely used tool for biomedical research, antibody technology is not flawless. Innovative alternatives, such as Nanobody® molecules, were developed to address the shortcomings of conventional antibodies. Nanobody® molecules are antigen-binding variable-domain fragments derived from the heavy-chain-only antibodies of camelids (VHH) and combine the advantageous properties of small molecules and monoclonal antibodies. Nanobody® molecules present a small size (~15 kDa, 4 nm long and 2.5 nm wide), high solubility, stability, specificity, and affinity, ease of cloning, and thermal and chemical resistance. Recombinant production in microorganisms is cost-effective, and VHH are also building blocks for multidomain constructs. These unique features led to numerous applications in fundamental research, diagnostics, and therapy. Nanobody® molecules are employed as biomarker probes and, when fused to radioisotopes or fluorophores, represent ideal non-invasive in vivo imaging agents. They can be used as neutralizing agents, receptor-ligand antagonists, or in targeted vehicle-based drug therapy. As early as 2018, the first Nanobody®, Cablivi (caplacizumab), a single-domain antibody (sdAb) drug developed by French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi for the treatment of adult patients with acquired thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP), was launched. Nanobody® compounds are ideal tools for further development in clinics for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kunz
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, IRCAN, 06107 Nice, France; (S.K.); (M.D.); (L.S.)
- Department of Oncology, Sanofi Research Center, 94400 Vitry-sur-Seine, France
| | - Manon Durandy
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, IRCAN, 06107 Nice, France; (S.K.); (M.D.); (L.S.)
| | - Laetitia Seguin
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, IRCAN, 06107 Nice, France; (S.K.); (M.D.); (L.S.)
| | - Chloe C. Feral
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, IRCAN, 06107 Nice, France; (S.K.); (M.D.); (L.S.)
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22
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Usama SM, Marker SC, Li DH, Caldwell DR, Stroet M, Patel NL, Tebo AG, Hernot S, Kalen JD, Schnermann M. Method To Diversify Cyanine Chromophore Functionality Enables Improved Biomolecule Tracking and Intracellular Imaging. J Am Chem Soc 2023. [PMID: 37367935 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c01765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Heptamethine indocyanines are invaluable probes for near-infrared (NIR) imaging. Despite broad use, there are only a few synthetic methods to assemble these molecules, and each has significant limitations. Here, we report the use of pyridinium benzoxazole (PyBox) salts as heptamethine indocyanine precursors. This method is high yielding, simple to implement, and provides access to previously unknown chromophore functionality. We applied this method to create molecules to address two outstanding objectives in NIR fluorescence imaging. First, we used an iterative approach to develop molecules for protein-targeted tumor imaging. When compared to common NIR fluorophores, the optimized probe increases the tumor specificity of monoclonal antibody (mAb) and nanobody conjugates. Second, we developed cyclizing heptamethine indocyanines with the goal of improving cellular uptake and fluorogenic properties. By modifying both the electrophilic and nucleophilic components, we demonstrate that the solvent sensitivity of the ring-open/ring-closed equilibrium can be modified over a wide range. We then show that a chloroalkane derivative of a compound with tuned cyclization properties undergoes particularly efficient no-wash live cell imaging using organelle-targeted HaloTag self-labeling proteins. Overall, the chemistry reported here broadens the scope of accessible chromophore functionality, and, in turn, enables the discovery of NIR probes with promising properties for advanced imaging applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Muhammad Usama
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Sierra C Marker
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Dong-Hao Li
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Donald R Caldwell
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Marcus Stroet
- Laboratory for in Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging, ICMI-BEFY/MIMA, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nimit L Patel
- Small Animal Imaging Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Alison G Tebo
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia 20147, United States
| | - Sophie Hernot
- Laboratory for in Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging, ICMI-BEFY/MIMA, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joseph D Kalen
- Small Animal Imaging Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Martin Schnermann
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
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23
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Thijssen V, Hurdiss DL, Debski-Antoniak OJ, Spence MA, Franck C, Norman A, Aggarwal A, Mokiem NJ, van Dongen DAA, Vermeir SW, Liu M, Li W, Chatziandreou M, Donselaar T, Du W, Drulyte I, Bosch BJ, Snijder J, Turville SG, Payne RJ, Jackson CJ, van Kuppeveld FJM, Jongkees SAK. A broad-spectrum macrocyclic peptide inhibitor of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2303292120. [PMID: 37339194 PMCID: PMC10293842 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2303292120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had great societal and health consequences. Despite the availability of vaccines, infection rates remain high due to immune evasive Omicron sublineages. Broad-spectrum antivirals are needed to safeguard against emerging variants and future pandemics. We used messenger RNA (mRNA) display under a reprogrammed genetic code to find a spike-targeting macrocyclic peptide that inhibits SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) Wuhan strain infection and pseudoviruses containing spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 variants or related sarbecoviruses. Structural and bioinformatic analyses reveal a conserved binding pocket between the receptor-binding domain, N-terminal domain, and S2 region, distal to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor-interaction site. Our data reveal a hitherto unexplored site of vulnerability in sarbecoviruses that peptides and potentially other drug-like molecules can target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito Thijssen
- Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CG, the Netherlands
- Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam1081HV, the Netherlands
| | - Daniel L. Hurdiss
- Section Virology, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CL, the Netherlands
| | - Oliver J. Debski-Antoniak
- Section Virology, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CL, the Netherlands
| | - Matthew A. Spence
- Research School of Chemistry, Australian National University, CanberraACT2601, Australia
| | - Charlotte Franck
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, SydneyNSW2006, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Sydney, SydneyNSW2006, Australia
| | - Alexander Norman
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, SydneyNSW2006, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Sydney, SydneyNSW2006, Australia
| | | | - Nadia J. Mokiem
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CH, the Netherlands
| | - David A. A. van Dongen
- Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CG, the Netherlands
- Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam1081HV, the Netherlands
| | - Stein W. Vermeir
- Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CG, the Netherlands
- Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam1081HV, the Netherlands
| | - Minglong Liu
- Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CG, the Netherlands
- Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam1081HV, the Netherlands
| | - Wentao Li
- Section Virology, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CL, the Netherlands
| | - Marianthi Chatziandreou
- Section Virology, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CL, the Netherlands
| | - Tim Donselaar
- Section Virology, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CL, the Netherlands
| | - Wenjuan Du
- Section Virology, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CL, the Netherlands
| | - Ieva Drulyte
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, Materials and Structural Analysis, Eindhoven5651GG, the Netherlands
| | - Berend-Jan Bosch
- Section Virology, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CL, the Netherlands
| | - Joost Snijder
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CH, the Netherlands
| | | | - Richard J. Payne
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, SydneyNSW2006, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Sydney, SydneyNSW2006, Australia
| | - Colin J. Jackson
- Research School of Chemistry, Australian National University, CanberraACT2601, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, Australian National University, CanberraACT2601, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Synthetic Biology, Australian National University, CanberraACT2601, Australia
| | - Frank J. M. van Kuppeveld
- Section Virology, Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CL, the Netherlands
| | - Seino A. K. Jongkees
- Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584CG, the Netherlands
- Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam1081HV, the Netherlands
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24
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Benloucif A, Meyer D, Balasse L, Goubard A, Danner L, Bouhlel A, Castellano R, Guillet B, Chames P, Kerfelec B. Rapid nanobody-based imaging of mesothelin expressing malignancies compatible with blocking therapeutic antibodies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1200652. [PMID: 37388728 PMCID: PMC10303918 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1200652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mesothelin (MSLN) is overexpressed in a wide variety of cancers with few therapeutic options and has recently emerged as an attractive target for cancer therapy, with a large number of approaches currently under preclinical and clinical investigation. In this respect, developing mesothelin specific tracers as molecular companion tools for predicting patient eligibility, monitoring then response to mesothelin-targeting therapies, and tracking the evolution of the disease or for real-time visualisation of tumours during surgery is of growing importance. Methods We generated by phage display a nanobody (Nb S1) and used enzymatic approaches were used to site-directed conjugate Nb S1 with either ATTO 647N fluorochrome or NODAGA chelator for fluorescence and positron emission tomography imaging (PET) respectively. Results We demonstrated that Nb S1 displays a high apparent affinity and specificity for human mesothelin and demonstrated that the binding, although located in the membrane distal domain of mesothelin, is not impeded by the presence of MUC16, the only known ligand of mesothelin, nor by the therapeutic antibody amatuximab. In vivo experiments showed that both ATTO 647N and [68Ga]Ga-NODAGA-S1 rapidly and specifically accumulated in mesothelin positive tumours compared to mesothelin negative tumours or irrelevant Nb with a high tumour/background ratio. The ex vivo biodistribution profile analysis also confirmed a significantly higher uptake of Nb S1 in MSLN-positive tumours than in MSLNlow tumours. Conclusion We demonstrated for the first time the use of an anti-MSLN nanobody as PET radiotracer for same day imaging of MSLN+ tumours, targeting an epitope compatible with the monitoring of amatuximab-based therapies and current SS1-derived-drug conjugates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdennour Benloucif
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, CRCM, Marseille, France
| | - Damien Meyer
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, CRCM, Marseille, France
| | - Laure Balasse
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centre Européen de Recherche en Imagerie Medicale (CERIMED), Marseille, France
- Aix-marseille University, INSERM, INRAE, Centre de recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Marseille, France
| | - Armelle Goubard
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, CRCM, TrGET Preclinical Platform, Marseille, France
| | - Lucile Danner
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, CRCM, Marseille, France
| | - Ahlem Bouhlel
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centre Européen de Recherche en Imagerie Medicale (CERIMED), Marseille, France
- Aix-marseille University, INSERM, INRAE, Centre de recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Marseille, France
| | - Rémy Castellano
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, CRCM, TrGET Preclinical Platform, Marseille, France
| | - Benjamin Guillet
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centre Européen de Recherche en Imagerie Medicale (CERIMED), Marseille, France
- Aix-marseille University, INSERM, INRAE, Centre de recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Marseille, France
| | - Patrick Chames
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, CRCM, Marseille, France
| | - Brigitte Kerfelec
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, CRCM, Marseille, France
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25
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Knauf G, Groover KE, O’Donnell AC, Davies BW. Generation of Synthetic Acinetobacter baumannii-Specific Nanobodies. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:1190-1195. [PMID: 37162304 PMCID: PMC10262196 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The bacterial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii is a leading cause of drug-resistant infections. Here, we investigated the potential of developing nanobodies that can recognize A. baumannii over other Gram-negative bacteria. Through generation and panning of a synthetic nanobody library, we identified several potential lead candidates. We demonstrate how incorporation of next-generation sequencing analysis can aid in the selection of lead candidate nanobodies. Using monoclonal phage display, we validated the binding of lead nanobodies to A. baumannii. Subsequent purification and biochemical characterization revealed one particularly robust nanobody that specifically bound select A. baumannii strains compared to other common drug-resistant pathogens. These findings support the potential for nanobodies to selectively target A. baumannii and the identification of lead candidates for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory
A. Knauf
- Department
of Molecular Biosciences, The University
of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Kyra E. Groover
- Department
of Molecular Biosciences, The University
of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Angela C. O’Donnell
- Department
of Molecular Biosciences, The University
of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
- John
Ring LaMontagne Center for Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Bryan W. Davies
- Department
of Molecular Biosciences, The University
of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
- John
Ring LaMontagne Center for Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
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26
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Castrignano C, Di Scipio F, Franco F, Mognetti B, Berta GN. Reviving a Classic Antigen with a Cutting-Edge Approach: Nanobodies for HER2+ Breast Cancer. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:794. [PMID: 37375741 PMCID: PMC10302560 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The serendipitous discovery of nanobodies (NBs) around two decades ago opened the door to new possibilities for innovative strategies, particularly in cancer treatment. These antigen-binding fragments are derived from heavy-chain-only antibodies naturally found in the serum of camelids and sharks. NBs are an appealing agent for the progress of innovative therapeutic strategies because they combine the advantageous assets of smaller molecules and conventional monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Moreover, the possibility to produce NBs using bacterial systems reduces manufacturing expenses and speeds up the production process, making them a feasible option for the development of new bio-drugs. Several NBs have been developed over the past 10 years and are currently being tested in clinical trials for various human targets. Here, we provide an overview of the notable structural and biochemical characteristics of NBs, particularly in their application against HER2, an extracellular receptor that often gets aberrantly activated during breast cancer tumorigenesis. The focus is on the recent advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic research up to the present date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Castrignano
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043 Orbassano, Italy; (C.C.); (F.D.S.); (F.F.)
| | - Federica Di Scipio
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043 Orbassano, Italy; (C.C.); (F.D.S.); (F.F.)
| | - Francesco Franco
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043 Orbassano, Italy; (C.C.); (F.D.S.); (F.F.)
| | - Barbara Mognetti
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Via Accademia Albertina 13, 10123 Turin, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Nicolao Berta
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043 Orbassano, Italy; (C.C.); (F.D.S.); (F.F.)
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Hambly JN, Ruby CE, Mourich DV, Bracha S, Dolan BP. Potential Promises and Perils of Human Biological Treatments for Immunotherapy in Veterinary Oncology. Vet Sci 2023; 10:336. [PMID: 37235419 PMCID: PMC10224056 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10050336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of immunotherapy for the treatment of human cancers has heralded a new era in oncology, one that is making its way into the veterinary clinic. As the immune system of many animal species commonly seen by veterinarians is similar to humans, there is great hope for the translation of human therapies into veterinary oncology. The simplest approach for veterinarians would be to adopt existing reagents that have been developed for human medicine, due to the potential of reduced cost and the time it takes to develop a new drug. However, this strategy may not always prove to be effective and safe with regard to certain drug platforms. Here, we review current therapeutic strategies that could exploit human reagents in veterinary medicine and also those therapies which may prove detrimental when human-specific biological molecules are used in veterinary oncology. In keeping with a One Health framework, we also discuss the potential use of single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) derived from camelid species (also known as Nanobodies™) for therapies targeting multiple veterinary animal patients without the need for species-specific reformulation. Such reagents would not only benefit the health of our veterinary species but could also guide human medicine by studying the effects of outbred animals that develop spontaneous tumors, a more relevant model of human diseases compared to traditional laboratory rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeilene N. Hambly
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Carl E. Ruby
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
- Biotesserae Inc., Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Dan V. Mourich
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
- Biotesserae Inc., Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Shay Bracha
- Biotesserae Inc., Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Brian P. Dolan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
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Colja S, Jovčevska I, Šamec N, Romih R, Zottel A. Sonication is a suitable method for loading nanobody into glioblastoma small extracellular vesicles. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15674. [PMID: 37131433 PMCID: PMC10149266 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15674] [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: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is one of the deadliest cancers, therefore novel efficient therapeutic approaches are urgently required. One of such are nanobodies, prospective nano-sized bio-drugs with advantageous characteristics. Nanobodies can target intracellular proteins, but to increase their efficiency, the delivery system should be applied. Here, we examined small extracellular vesicles as a delivery system for anti-vimentin nanobody Nb79. Nb79 was loaded in small extracellular vesicles either by incubation with glioblastoma cells, by passive loading into isolated small extracellular vesicles or by sonication of isolated small extracellular vesicles. Small extracellular vesicles secreted by glioblastoma cells were isolated by ultracentrifugation on sucrose cushion. The size distribution and average size of sonicated and non-sonicated small extracellular vesicles were determined by nanoparticle tracking analysis method. The loading of Nb79 into small extracellular vesicles by incubation with cells, passive loading or sonication was confirmed by Western blot and electron microscopy. The effect of small extracellular vesicles on cell survival was determined by WST-1 reagent. Loading of small extracellular vesicles by incubation of cells with Nb79 was unsuccessful and resulted in substantial cell death. On the other hand, as confirmed by Western blot and electron microscopy, sonication is a successful method for obtaining Nb79-loaded small extracellular vesicles. Small extracellular vesicles also had an effect on cell viability. Small extracellular vesicles without Nb79 increased survival of U251 and NCH644 cells for 20-25%, while the Nb79-loaded small extracellular vesicles decreased survival of NCH421k by 11%. We demonstrated that sonication is a suitable method to load nanobodies into exosome, and these small extracellular vesicles could in turn reduce cell survival. The method could be translated also to other applications, such as targeted delivery system of other protein-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Colja
- Medical Centre for Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ivana Jovčevska
- Medical Centre for Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Neja Šamec
- Medical Centre for Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Rok Romih
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alja Zottel
- Medical Centre for Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Corresponding author.
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Silva-Pilipich N, Covo-Vergara Á, Smerdou C. Local Delivery of Immunomodulatory Antibodies for Gastrointestinal Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082352. [PMID: 37190279 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapy has experienced a breakthrough with the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) based on monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), which are able to unleash immune responses against tumors refractory to other therapies. Despite the great advancement that ICIs represent, most patients with gastrointestinal tumors have not benefited from this therapy. In addition, ICIs often induce adverse effects that are related to their systemic use. Local administration of ICIs in tumors could concentrate their effect in the malignant tissue and provide a higher safety profile. A new and attractive approach for local delivery of ICIs is the use of gene therapy vectors to express these blocking antibodies in tumor cells. Several vectors have been evaluated in preclinical models of gastrointestinal tumors to express ICIs against PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4, among other immune checkpoints, with promising results. Vectors used in these settings include oncolytic viruses, self-replicating RNA vectors, and non-replicative viral and non-viral vectors. The use of viral vectors, especially when they have replication capacity, provides an additional adjuvant effect that has been shown to enhance antitumor responses. This review covers the most recent studies involving the use of gene therapy vectors to deliver ICIs to gastrointestinal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Silva-Pilipich
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ángela Covo-Vergara
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Cristian Smerdou
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
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Yong Joon Kim J, Sang Z, Xiang Y, Shen Z, Shi Y. Nanobodies: Robust miniprotein binders in biomedicine. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 195:114726. [PMID: 36754285 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Variable domains of heavy chain-only antibodies (VHH), also known as nanobodies (Nbs), are monomeric antigen-binding domains derived from the camelid heavy chain-only antibodies. Nbs are characterized by small size, high target selectivity, and marked solubility and stability, which collectively facilitate high-quality drug development. In addition, Nbs are readily expressed from various expression systems, including E. coli and yeast cells. For these reasons, Nbs have emerged as preferred antibody fragments for protein engineering, disease diagnosis, and treatment. To date, two Nb-based therapies have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Numerous candidates spanning a wide spectrum of diseases such as cancer, immune disorders, infectious diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders are under preclinical and clinical investigation. Here, we discuss the structural features of Nbs that allow for specific, versatile, and strong target binding. We also summarize emerging technologies for identification, structural analysis, and humanization of Nbs. Our main focus is to review recent advances in using Nbs as a modular scaffold to facilitate the engineering of multivalent polymers for cutting-edge applications. Finally, we discuss remaining challenges for Nb development and envision new opportunities in Nb-based research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Yong Joon Kim
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Zhe Sang
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Yufei Xiang
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Zhuolun Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Shi
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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Toshima A, Shiraishi Y, Shinmi D, Kagawa Y, Enokizono J. Comprehensive Analyses of the Intracellular and in Vivo Disposition of Fab- Small Interfering RNA Conjugate to Identify Key Issues to Improve Its in Vivo Activity. Drug Metab Dispos 2023; 51:338-347. [PMID: 36460478 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.122.001098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Comprehensive analyses of intracellular disposition and in vivo pharmacokinetics were performed for small interfering RNA (siRNA) conjugated with the Fab fragment of panitumumab, a fully humanized monoclonal antibody against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The Fab-siRNA conjugate was internalized into EGFR-expressing cancer cells in an antigen-dependent manner. Intracellular disposition was quantitatively evaluated using fluorescent-labeled panitumumab and confocal microscopy. The majority of internalized panitumumab was suggested to be transferred into lysosomes. In vivo pharmacokinetics were evaluated in EGFR-expressing tumor-bearing mice. Intact Fab-siRNA was measured by immunoprecipitation using anti-Fab antibody followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The Fab portion was measured by a ligand binding assay. Intact Fab-siRNA concentrations rapidly decreased in the plasma and tumor, although the Fab portion concentration remained high, suggesting extensive degradation in the linker-siRNA portion. After incubation of Fab-siRNA in mouse plasma, samples were digested with proteinase K, and extracted siRNA tagged with Fab-derived peptide was subjected to an ion-pair reversed-phase liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry analysis. Results suggested that hydrolysis from the 3' end of the antisense strand of siRNA is the major metabolizing pathway. Based on these findings, endosomal escape and stability in lysosomes, blood, and tumor are key factors to improve to achieve efficient target gene knockdown in tumors, and stabilizing the 3' end of the antisense strand was suggested to be most efficient. Our approaches clearly identified the key issues of Fab-siRNA from a pharmacokinetics aspect, which will be useful for improving the in vivo activity of siRNA conjugated with not only Fab but also other immunoproteins. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The intracellular and in vivo disposition of Fab-small interfering RNA (siRNA) conjugate was comprehensively investigated using various approaches, including newly developed analytical methods. This study clearly shows that improvements in siRNA stability in lysosomes, blood, and tumor are needed for target gene knockdown in tumors. The major metabolic pathway of Fab-siRNA is 3' exonuclease degradation, suggesting that optimization of the conjugation site to Fab might help improve stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asami Toshima
- Pharmacokinetics Research Laboratories, Translational Research Unit, R&D Division (A.T.), Modality Research Laboratories 1, Research Unit, R&D Division (Y.S.), Molecular Analysis Center, Research Unit, R&D Division (D.S.), and Research Management Office, Research Unit, R&D Division (J.E.), Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan; and Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan (Y.K.)
| | - Yasuhisa Shiraishi
- Pharmacokinetics Research Laboratories, Translational Research Unit, R&D Division (A.T.), Modality Research Laboratories 1, Research Unit, R&D Division (Y.S.), Molecular Analysis Center, Research Unit, R&D Division (D.S.), and Research Management Office, Research Unit, R&D Division (J.E.), Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan; and Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan (Y.K.)
| | - Daisuke Shinmi
- Pharmacokinetics Research Laboratories, Translational Research Unit, R&D Division (A.T.), Modality Research Laboratories 1, Research Unit, R&D Division (Y.S.), Molecular Analysis Center, Research Unit, R&D Division (D.S.), and Research Management Office, Research Unit, R&D Division (J.E.), Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan; and Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan (Y.K.)
| | - Yoshiyuki Kagawa
- Pharmacokinetics Research Laboratories, Translational Research Unit, R&D Division (A.T.), Modality Research Laboratories 1, Research Unit, R&D Division (Y.S.), Molecular Analysis Center, Research Unit, R&D Division (D.S.), and Research Management Office, Research Unit, R&D Division (J.E.), Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan; and Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan (Y.K.)
| | - Junichi Enokizono
- Pharmacokinetics Research Laboratories, Translational Research Unit, R&D Division (A.T.), Modality Research Laboratories 1, Research Unit, R&D Division (Y.S.), Molecular Analysis Center, Research Unit, R&D Division (D.S.), and Research Management Office, Research Unit, R&D Division (J.E.), Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan; and Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan (Y.K.)
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Guo X, Li C, Jia X, Qu Y, Li M, Cao C, Zhang Z, Qu Q, Luo S, Tang J, Liu H, Hu Z, Tian J. NIR-II fluorescence imaging-guided colorectal cancer surgery targeting CEACAM5 by a nanobody. EBioMedicine 2023; 89:104476. [PMID: 36801616 PMCID: PMC9972495 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgery is the cornerstone of colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment, yet complete removal of the tumour remains a challenge. The second near-infrared window (NIR-II, 1000-1700 nm) fluorescent molecular imaging is a novel technique, which has broad application prospects in tumour surgical navigation. We aimed to evaluate the ability of CEACAM5-targeted probe for CRC recognition and the value of NIR-II imaging-guided CRC resection. METHODS We constructed the probe 2D5-IRDye800CW by conjugated anti-CEACAM5 nanobody (2D5) with near-infrared fluorescent dye IRDye800CW. The performance and benefits of 2D5-IRDye800CW at NIR-II were confirmed by imaging experiments in mouse vascular and capillary phantom. Then mouse colorectal cancer subcutaneous tumour model (n = 15), orthotopic model (n = 15), and peritoneal metastasis model (n = 10) were constructed to investigate biodistribution of probe and imaging differences between NIR-I and NIR-II in vivo, and then tumour resection was guided by NIR-II fluorescence. Fresh human colorectal cancer specimens were incubated with 2D5-IRDye800CW to verify its specific targeting ability. FINDINGS 2D5-IRDye800CW had an NIR-II fluorescence signal extending to 1600 nm and bound specifically to CEACAM5 with an affinity of 2.29 nM. In vivo imaging, 2D5-IRDye800CW accumulated rapidly in tumour (15 min) and could specifically identify orthotopic colorectal cancer and peritoneal metastases. All tumours were resected under NIR-II fluorescence guidance, even smaller than 2 mm tumours were detected, and NIR-II had a higher tumour-to-background ratio than NIR-I (2.55 ± 0.38, 1.94 ± 0.20, respectively). 2D5-IRDye800CW could precisely identify CEACAM5-positive human colorectal cancer tissue. INTERPRETATION 2D5-IRDye800CW combined with NIR-II fluorescence has translational potential as an aid to improve R0 surgery of colorectal cancer. FUNDINGS This study was supported by Beijing Natural Science Foundation (JQ19027), the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2017YFA0205200), National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) (61971442, 62027901, 81930053, 92059207, 81227901, 82102236), Beijing Natural Science Foundation (L222054), CAS Youth Interdisciplinary Team (JCTD-2021-08), the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (XDA16021200), the Zhuhai High-level Health Personnel Team Project (Zhuhai HLHPTP201703), the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (JKF-YG-22-B005) and Capital Clinical Characteristic Application Research (Z181100001718178). The authors would like to acknowledge the instrumental and technical support of the multi-modal biomedical imaging experimental platform, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyong Guo
- Clinical College of Armed Police General Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Department of Gastroenterology of The Third Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Changjian Li
- School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Big Data-Based Precision Medicine (Beihang University), Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xiaohua Jia
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Yawei Qu
- Department of Control Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, China; Beijing Mentougou District Hospital, Beijing, 102300, China
| | - Miaomiao Li
- Clinical College of Armed Police General Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Department of Gastroenterology of The Third Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Caiguang Cao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zeyu Zhang
- School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Big Data-Based Precision Medicine (Beihang University), Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Qiaojun Qu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; College of Medical Imaging, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Shuangling Luo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; Department of Colorectal Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Jianqiang Tang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China.
| | - Haifeng Liu
- Clinical College of Armed Police General Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Department of Gastroenterology of The Third Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China; Beijing Mentougou District Hospital, Beijing, 102300, China.
| | - Zhenhua Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Jie Tian
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Big Data-Based Precision Medicine (Beihang University), Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Beijing, 100191, China; School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Anti-Vimentin Nanobody Decreases Glioblastoma Cell Invasion In Vitro and In Vivo. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030573. [PMID: 36765531 PMCID: PMC9913279 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumour and one of the deadliest cancers. In addition to late diagnosis and inadequate treatment, the extremely low survival rate is also due to the lack of appropriate therapeutic biomarkers and corresponding therapeutic agents. One of the potential therapeutic biomarkers is the intermediate filament vimentin, which is associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The purpose of this study was to analyse the effect of the anti-vimentin nanobody Nb79 on cell invasion in vitro and in vivo. To further our understanding of the mechanism of action, we investigated the association between Nb79 and EMT in GBM and GBM stem cells by analysing the expression levels of key EMT-related proteins. METHODS The expression of vimentin in glioma tissues and cells was determined by RT-qPCR. An invasion assay was performed on differentiated glioblastoma cell line U-87 MG and stem cell line NCH421k in vitro as well as in vivo in zebrafish embryos. The effect of Nb79 on expression of EMT biomarkers beta-catenin, vimentin, ZEB-1 and ZO1 was determined by Western blot and immunocytochemistry. RESULTS Our study shows that vimentin is upregulated in glioblastoma tissue compared to lower grade glioma and non-tumour brain tissue. We demonstrated that treatment with Nb79 reduced glioblastoma cell invasion by up to 64% in vitro and up to 21% in vivo. In addition, we found that the tight junction protein ZO-1 had higher expression on the cell membrane, when treated with inhibitory anti-vimentin Nb79 compared to control. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our results suggest that anti-vimentin nanobody Nb79 is a promising tool to target glioblastoma cell invasion.
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Minibody-Based and scFv-Based Antibody Fragment-Drug Conjugates Selectively Eliminate GD2-Positive Tumor Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021239. [PMID: 36674755 PMCID: PMC9860947 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ganglioside GD2 is a well-established target expressed on multiple solid tumors, many of which are characterized by low treatment efficiency. Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have demonstrated marked success in a number of solid tumors, and GD2-directed drug conjugates may also hold strong therapeutic potential. In a recent study, we showed that ADCs based on the approved antibody dinutuximab and the drugs monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) or F (MMAF) manifested potent and selective cytotoxicity in a panel of tumor cell lines and strongly inhibited solid tumor growth in GD2-positive mouse cancer models. Here, we employed two different GD2-binding moieties-minibodies and scFv fragments that carry variable antibody domains identical to those of dinutuximab, and site-directly conjugated them to MMAE or MMAF by thiol-maleimide chemistry with drug-to-antibody ratios (DAR) of 2 and 1, respectively. Specific binding of the antibody fragment-drug conjugates (FDCs) to GD2 was confirmed in direct ELISA, flow cytometry, and confocal microscopy. Selective cytotoxic and cytostatic effects of the conjugates were observed in GD2-positive but not GD2-negative neuroblastoma and melanoma cell lines. Minibody-based FDCs demonstrated more pronounced cytotoxic effects and stronger antigen binding compared to scFv-based FDCs. The developed molecules may offer considerable practical benefit, since antibody fragment-drug conjugates are capable of enhancing therapeutic efficacy of ADCs by improving their pharmacokinetic characteristics and reducing side effects.
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Li H, Luo Q, Zhang H, Ma X, Gu Z, Gong Q, Luo K. Nanomedicine embraces cancer radio-immunotherapy: mechanism, design, recent advances, and clinical translation. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:47-96. [PMID: 36427082 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00437b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cancer radio-immunotherapy, integrating external/internal radiation therapy with immuno-oncology treatments, emerges in the current management of cancer. A growing number of pre-clinical studies and clinical trials have recently validated the synergistic antitumor effect of radio-immunotherapy, far beyond the "abscopal effect", but it suffers from a low response rate and toxicity issues. To this end, nanomedicines with an optimized design have been introduced to improve cancer radio-immunotherapy. Specifically, these nanomedicines are elegantly prepared by incorporating tumor antigens, immuno- or radio-regulators, or biomarker-specific imaging agents into the corresponding optimized nanoformulations. Moreover, they contribute to inducing various biological effects, such as generating in situ vaccination, promoting immunogenic cell death, overcoming radiation resistance, reversing immunosuppression, as well as pre-stratifying patients and assessing therapeutic response or therapy-induced toxicity. Overall, this review aims to provide a comprehensive landscape of nanomedicine-assisted radio-immunotherapy. The underlying working principles and the corresponding design strategies for these nanomedicines are elaborated by following the concept of "from bench to clinic". Their state-of-the-art applications, concerns over their clinical translation, along with perspectives are covered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haonan Li
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Qiang Luo
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Hu Zhang
- Amgen Bioprocessing Centre, Keck Graduate Institute, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Zhongwei Gu
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China. .,Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Kui Luo
- Department of Radiology, Department of Biotherapy, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Cancer Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu 610041, China. .,Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China
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Feng Y, Meshaw R, Zhao XG, Jannetti S, Vaidyanathan G, Zalutsky MR. Effective Treatment of Human Breast Carcinoma Xenografts with Single-Dose 211At-Labeled Anti-HER2 Single-Domain Antibody Fragment. J Nucl Med 2023; 64:124-130. [PMID: 35618478 PMCID: PMC9841253 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.122.264071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-domain antibody fragments (sdAbs) are attractive for targeted α-particle therapy, particularly with 211At, because of their rapid accumulation in tumor and clearance from normal tissues. Here, we evaluate the therapeutic potential of this strategy with 5F7 and VHH_1028-2 sdAbs that bind with high affinity to domain IV of human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER2). Methods: The HER2-specific sdAbs and HER2-irrelevant VHH_2001 were labeled using N-succinimidyl-3-211At-astato-5-guanidinomethyl benzoate (iso-211At-SAGMB). The cytotoxicity of iso- 211At-SAGMB-5F7 and iso- 211At-SAGMB-VHH_2001 were compared on HER2-expressing BT474 breast carcinoma cells. Three experiments in mice with subcutaneous BT474 xenografts were performed to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness of single doses of iso- 211At-SAGMB-5F7 (0.7-3.0 MBq), iso- 211At-SAGMB-VHH_1028 (1.0-3.0 MBq), and iso- 211At-SAGMB-VHH_1028 and iso- 211At-SAGMB-VHH_2001 (∼1.0 MBq). Results: Clonogenic survival of BT474 cells was reduced after exposure to iso- 211At-SAGMB-5F7 (D0 = 1.313 kBq/mL) whereas iso- 211At-SAGMB-VHH_2001 was ineffective. Dose-dependent tumor growth inhibition was observed with 211At-labeled HER2-specific 5F7 and VHH_1028 but not with HER2-irrelevant VHH_2001. At the 3.0-MBq dose, complete tumor regression was seen in 3 of 4 mice treated with iso- 211At-SAGMB-5F7 and 8 of 11 mice treated with iso- 211At-SAGMB-VHH_1028; prolongation in median survival was 495% and 414%, respectively. Conclusion: Combining rapidly internalizing, high-affinity HER2-targeted sdAbs with the iso- 211At-SAGMB residualizing prosthetic agent is a promising strategy for targeted α-particle therapy of HER2-expressing cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutian Feng
- Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Rebecca Meshaw
- Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Xiao-Guang Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Stephen Jannetti
- Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Michael R Zalutsky
- Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
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Ma J, Xu X, Fu C, Xia P, Tian M, Zheng L, Chen K, Liu X, Li Y, Yu L, Zhu Q, Yu Y, Fan R, Jiang H, Li Z, Yang C, Xu C, Long Y, Wang J, Li Z. CDH17 nanobodies facilitate rapid imaging of gastric cancer and efficient delivery of immunotoxin. Biomater Res 2022; 26:64. [PMID: 36435809 PMCID: PMC9701387 DOI: 10.1186/s40824-022-00312-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is highly desirable to develop new therapeutic strategies for gastric cancer given the low survival rate despite improvement in the past decades. Cadherin 17 (CDH17) is a membrane protein highly expressed in cancers of digestive system. Nanobody represents a novel antibody format for cancer targeted imaging and drug delivery. Nanobody targeting CHD17 as an imaging probe and a delivery vehicle of toxin remains to be explored for its theragnostic potential in gastric cancer. METHODS Naïve nanobody phage library was screened against CDH17 Domain 1-3 and identified nanobodies were extensively characterized with various assays. Nanobodies labeled with imaging probe were tested in vitro and in vivo for gastric cancer detection. A CDH17 Nanobody fused with toxin PE38 was evaluated for gastric cancer inhibition in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Two nanobodies (A1 and E8) against human CDH17 with high affinity and high specificity were successfully obtained. These nanobodies could specifically bind to CDH17 protein and CDH17-positive gastric cancer cells. E8 nanobody as a lead was extensively determined for tumor imaging and drug delivery. It could efficiently co-localize with CDH17-positive gastric cancer cells in zebrafish embryos and rapidly visualize the tumor mass in mice within 3 h when conjugated with imaging dyes. E8 nanobody fused with toxin PE38 showed excellent anti-tumor effect and remarkably improved the mice survival in cell-derived (CDX) and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. The immunotoxin also enhanced the anti-tumor effect of clinical drug 5-Fluorouracil. CONCLUSIONS The study presents a novel imaging and drug delivery strategy by targeting CDH17. CDH17 nanobody-based immunotoxin is potentially a promising therapeutic modality for clinical translation against gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingbo Ma
- Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China.,College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolong Xu
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Chunjin Fu
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Peng Xia
- Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China.,Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Ming Tian
- Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China.,Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Liuhai Zheng
- Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Kun Chen
- Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolian Liu
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Yilei Li
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Le Yu
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, P. R. China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Qinchang Zhu
- College of Pharmacy, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, 518118, P.R. China
| | - Yangyang Yu
- Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Rongrong Fan
- Deapartment of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, 14157, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Haibo Jiang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Zhifen Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi Datong University, Xing Yun Street, Pingcheng District, Datong, 037009, Shanxi, P. R. China
| | - Chuanbin Yang
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Chengchao Xu
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Ying Long
- Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China.
| | - Jigang Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, P.R. China. .,Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, P. R. China.
| | - Zhijie Li
- Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China. .,Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China.
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Fully automated 18F-fluorination of N-succinimidyl-4-[ 18F]fluorobenzoate ([ 18F]SFB) for indirect labelling of nanobodies. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18655. [PMID: 36333403 PMCID: PMC9636270 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23552-8] [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: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
N-succinimidyl-4-[18F]fluorobenzoate ([18F]SFB), a widely used labeling agent to introduce the 4-[18F]fluorobenzoyl-prosthetic group, is normally obtained in three consecutive steps from [18F]fluoride ion. Here, we describe an efficient one-step labeling procedure of [18F]SFB starting from a tin precursor. This method circumvents volatile radioactive side-products and simplifies automatization. [18F]SFB was obtained after HPLC purification in a yield of 42 + 4% and a radiochemical purity (RCP) > 99% (n = 6). In addition, we investigate the automation of the coupling of [18F]SFB to a nanobody (cAbBcII10, targeting β-lactamase enzyme) and purification by size exclusion chromatography (PD-10 desalting column) to remove unconjugated reagent. Production and use of [18F]SFB were implemented on a radiosynthesis unit (Neptis®). The fully automated radiosynthesis process including purification and formulation required 160 min of synthesis time. [18F]SFB-labeled nanobody was obtained in a yield of 21 + 2% (activity yield 12 + 1% non-decay corrected) and a radiochemical purity (RCP) of > 95% (n = 3). This approach simplifies [18F]SFB synthesis to one-step, enhances the yield in comparison to the previous report and enables the production of radiolabeled nanobody on the same synthesis module.
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Shen Z, Sang Z, Shi Y. Nanobodies as a powerful platform for biomedicine. Trends Mol Med 2022; 28:1006-1007. [PMID: 36075813 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2022.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuolun Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Zhe Sang
- Center for Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY 10029, USA
| | - Yi Shi
- Center for Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY 10029, USA.
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Zhan M, Guo Y, Shen M, Shi X. Nanomaterial‐Boosted Tumor Immunotherapy Through Natural Killer Cells. ADVANCED NANOBIOMED RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/anbr.202200096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mengsi Zhan
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering Donghua University Shanghai 201620 P.R. China
| | - Yunqi Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering Donghua University Shanghai 201620 P.R. China
| | - Mingwu Shen
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering Donghua University Shanghai 201620 P.R. China
| | - Xiangyang Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering Donghua University Shanghai 201620 P.R. China
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Lou H, Cao X. Antibody variable region engineering for improving cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2022; 42:804-827. [PMID: 35822503 PMCID: PMC9456695 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The efficacy and specificity of conventional monoclonal antibody (mAb) drugs in the clinic require further improvement. Currently, the development and application of novel antibody formats for improving cancer immunotherapy have attracted much attention. Variable region-retaining antibody fragments, such as antigen-binding fragment (Fab), single-chain variable fragment (scFv), bispecific antibody, and bi/trispecific cell engagers, are engineered with humanization, multivalent antibody construction, affinity optimization and antibody masking for targeting tumor cells and killer cells to improve antibody-based therapy potency, efficacy and specificity. In this review, we summarize the application of antibody variable region engineering and discuss the future direction of antibody engineering for improving cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hantao Lou
- Ludwig Institute of Cancer ResearchUniversity of OxfordOxfordOX3 7DRUK
- Chinese Academy for Medical Sciences Oxford InstituteNuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordOX3 7FZUK
| | - Xuetao Cao
- Chinese Academy for Medical Sciences Oxford InstituteNuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordOX3 7FZUK
- Department of ImmunologyCentre for Immunotherapy, Institute of Basic Medical SciencesChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijing100005P. R. China
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An anti-CTLA-4 heavy chain-only antibody with enhanced T reg depletion shows excellent preclinical efficacy and safety profile. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2200879119. [PMID: 35925889 PMCID: PMC9371702 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2200879119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The value of anti-CTLA-4 antibodies in cancer therapy is well established. However, the broad application of currently available anti-CTLA-4 therapeutic antibodies is hampered by their narrow therapeutic index. It is therefore challenging and attractive to develop the next generation of anti-CTLA-4 therapeutics with improved safety and efficacy. To this end, we generated fully human heavy chain-only antibodies (HCAbs) against CTLA-4. The hIgG1 Fc domain of the top candidate, HCAb 4003-1, was further engineered to enhance its regulatory T (Treg) cell depletion effect and to decrease its half-life, resulting in HCAb 4003-2. We tested these HCAbs in in vitro and in vivo experiments in comparison with ipilimumab and other anti-CTLA4 antibodies. The results show that human HCAb 4003-2 binds human CTLA-4 with high affinity and potently blocks the binding of B7-1 (CD80) and B7-2 (CD86) to CTLA-4. The results also show efficient tumor penetration. HCAb 4003-2 exhibits enhanced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity function, lower serum exposure, and more potent anti-tumor activity than ipilimumab in murine tumor models, which is partly driven by a substantial depletion of intratumoral Tregs. Importantly, the enhanced efficacy combined with the shorter serum half-life and less systemic drug exposure in vivo potentially provides an improved therapeutic window in cynomolgus monkeys and preliminary clinical applications. With its augmented efficacy via Treg depletion and improved safety profile, HCAb 4003-2 is a promising candidate for the development of next generation anti-CTLA-4 therapy.
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Hu B, Liu T, Li L, Shi L, Yao M, Li C, Ma X, Zhu H, Jia B, Wang F. IgG-Binding Nanobody Capable of Prolonging Nanobody-Based Radiotracer Plasma Half-Life and Enhancing the Efficacy of Tumor-Targeted Radionuclide Therapy. Bioconjug Chem 2022; 33:1328-1339. [PMID: 35687724 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.2c00209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Nanobodies have been developed rapidly as targeted probes for molecular imaging owing to their high affinity, outstanding tissue penetration, and rapid blood clearance. However, the short retention time at the tumor site limits their application in targeted radionuclide therapy. In this study, we designed a dual-targeting nanobody referred to as MIRC213-709, which can specifically bind to the HER2 receptor in tumor cell lines with high affinity (by nanobody MIRC213) and endogenous IgG in plasma to prolong the half-life by the MIRC213 C-terminal fusion nanobody, MIRC709. The nanobodies were site-specifically radiolabeled with 99mTc and 177Lu, and radiochemical purity was >95% after purification. The long blood circulation time and tumor retention property of 99mTc/177Lu-MIRC213-709 were confirmed by a blood clearance assay, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and a biodistribution study. The blood clearance assay showed that the distribution phase half-life (T1/2α) and elimination phase half-life (T1/2β) of 99mTc-MIRC213-709 were 6.74- and 19.04-fold longer than those of 99mTc-MIRC213, respectively. The SPECT/CT and biodistribution results showed that the highest uptake of 177Lu-MIRC213 in the NCI-N87 model was 5.24 ± 0.95% ID/g at 6 h p.i., while the highest uptake of 177Lu-MIRC213-709 in the NCI-N87 model was 30.82 ± 7.29% ID/g at 48 h p.i. Compared with 177Lu-MIRC213, 177Lu-MIRC213-709 had a 16.9-fold increased tumor cumulative uptake (2606 ± 195.1 vs 153.9 ± 22.37% ID/g·h). The targeted radionuclide therapy assay was performed in the NCI-N87 tumor model, and treatment monitoring ended on day 32. The post-treatment/pretreatment tumor volumes were 12.99 ± 1.66, 3.58 ± 0.96, 1.26 ± 0.17, and 1.54 ± 0.50 in the 0, 9, and 18 MBq single-dose groups and the two 9 MBq divided dose group (14 days apart), respectively. All treatment groups showed significant therapeutic effects (P < 0.0001). Thus, fusion with the IgG-binding nanobody MIRC709 provides MIRC213 derivatives with improved metabolic properties for targeted radionuclide therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biao Hu
- Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Tianyu Liu
- Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Liqiang Li
- Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Linqing Shi
- Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Meinan Yao
- Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chenzhen Li
- Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaopan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Hua Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Bing Jia
- Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Fan Wang
- Medical Isotopes Research Center and Department of Radiation Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
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Caers J, Duray E, Vrancken L, Marcion G, Bocuzzi V, De Veirman K, Krasniqi A, Lejeune M, Withofs N, Devoogdt N, Dumoulin M, Karlström AE, D’Huyvetter M. Radiotheranostic Agents in Hematological Malignancies. Front Immunol 2022; 13:911080. [PMID: 35865548 PMCID: PMC9294596 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.911080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Radioimmunotherapy (RIT) is a cancer treatment that combines radiation therapy with tumor-directed monoclonal antibodies (Abs). Although RIT had been introduced for the treatment of CD20 positive non-Hodgkin lymphoma decades ago, it never found a broad clinical application. In recent years, researchers have developed theranostic agents based on Ab fragments or small Ab mimetics such as peptides, affibodies or single-chain Abs with improved tumor-targeting capacities. Theranostics combine diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities into a single pharmaceutical agent; this dual application can be easily achieved after conjugation to radionuclides. The past decade has seen a trend to increased specificity, fastened pharmacokinetics, and personalized medicine. In this review, we discuss the different strategies introduced for the noninvasive detection and treatment of hematological malignancies by radiopharmaceuticals. We also discuss the future applications of these radiotheranostic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Caers
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I³, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Department of Hematology, CHU de Liège, Liège, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Jo Caers,
| | - Elodie Duray
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I³, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Centre for Protein Engineering, Inbios, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Louise Vrancken
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I³, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Department of Hematology, CHU de Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Guillaume Marcion
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I³, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Valentina Bocuzzi
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I³, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Kim De Veirman
- Department of Hematology and Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ahmet Krasniqi
- Laboratory of In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory (ICMI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Margaux Lejeune
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I³, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Nadia Withofs
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, CHU de Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Laboratory of In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory (ICMI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mireille Dumoulin
- Centre for Protein Engineering, Inbios, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Amelie Eriksson Karlström
- Department of Protein Science, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Matthias D’Huyvetter
- Laboratory of In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory (ICMI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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Generation of glycan-specific nanobodies. Cell Chem Biol 2022; 29:1353-1361.e6. [PMID: 35705094 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2022.05.007] [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: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The development of antibodies that target specific glycan structures on cancer cells or human pathogens poses a significant challenge due to the immense complexity of naturally occurring glycans. Automated glycan assembly enables the production of structurally homogeneous glycans in amounts that are difficult to derive from natural sources. Nanobodies (Nbs) are the smallest antigen-binding domains of heavy-chain-only antibodies (hcAbs) found in camelids. To date, the development of glycan-specific Nbs using synthetic glycans has not been reported. Here, we use defined synthetic glycans for alpaca immunization to elicit glycan-specific hcAbs, and describe the identification, isolation, and production of a Nb specific for the tumor-associated carbohydrate antigen Globo-H. The Nb binds the terminal fucose of Globo-H and recognizes synthetic Globo-H in solution and native Globo-H on breast cancer cells with high specificity. These results demonstrate the potential of our approach for generating glycan-targeting Nbs to be used in biomedical and biotechnological applications.
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47
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Targeting Tumor Cells Overexpressing the Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 3 with Potent Drug Conjugates Based on Affibody Molecules. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061293. [PMID: 35740315 PMCID: PMC9219639 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that therapy targeting the human epidermal growth factor receptor 3 (HER3) could be a viable route for targeted cancer therapy. Here, we studied a novel drug conjugate, ZHER3-ABD-mcDM1, consisting of a HER3-targeting affibody molecule, coupled to the cytotoxic tubulin polymerization inhibitor DM1, and an albumin-binding domain for in vivo half-life extension. ZHER3-ABD-mcDM1 showed a strong affinity to the extracellular domain of HER3 (KD 6 nM), and an even stronger affinity (KD 0.2 nM) to the HER3-overexpressing pancreatic carcinoma cell line, BxPC-3. The drug conjugate showed a potent cytotoxic effect on BxPC-3 cells with an IC50 value of 7 nM. Evaluation of a radiolabeled version, [99mTc]Tc-ZHER3-ABD-mcDM1, showed a relatively high rate of internalization, with a 27% internalized fraction after 8 h. Further in vivo evaluation showed that it could target BxPC-3 (pancreatic carcinoma) and DU145 (prostate carcinoma) xenografts in mice, with an uptake peaking at 6.3 ± 0.4% IA/g at 6 h post-injection for the BxPC-3 xenografts. The general biodistribution showed uptake in the liver, lung, salivary gland, stomach, and small intestine, organs known to express murine ErbB3 naturally. The results from the study show that ZHER3-ABD-mcDM1 is a highly potent and selective drug conjugate with the ability to specifically target HER3 overexpressing cells. Further pre-clinical and clinical development is discussed.
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Li B, Qin X, Mi LZ. Nanobodies: from structure to applications in non-injectable and bispecific biotherapeutic development. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:7110-7122. [PMID: 35535618 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr00306f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The increasing demand for convenient, miniaturized and multifunctional antibodies necessitates the development of novel antigen-recognition molecules for biological and medical studies. Nanobodies, the functional variable regions of camelid heavy-chain-only antibodies, as a new tool, complement the conventional antibodies and are in the stage of rapid development. The outstanding advantages of nanobodies include a stable structure, easy production, excellent water solubility, high affinity toward antigens and low immunogenicity. With promising application potential, nanobodies are now increasingly applied to various studies, including protein structure analysis, microscopic imaging, medical diagnosis, and drug development. The approval of the first nanobody drug Caplacizumab by the FDA disclosed the therapeutic potential of nanobodies. The outbreak of COVID-19 accelerated the development of nanobody drugs in non-injectable and bispecific biotherapeutic applications. Herein, we reviewed recent studies on the nanobody structure, screening and their applications in protein structure analysis and nanobody drugs, especially on non-injectable nanobody and bispecific nanobody development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingxuan Li
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Xiaohong Qin
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Li-Zhi Mi
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China.
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Awad RM, Meeus F, Ceuppens H, Ertveldt T, Hanssens H, Lecocq Q, Mateusiak L, Zeven K, Valenta H, De Groof TWM, De Vlaeminck Y, Krasniqi A, De Veirman K, Goyvaerts C, D'Huyvetter M, Hernot S, Devoogdt N, Breckpot K. Emerging applications of nanobodies in cancer therapy. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 369:143-199. [PMID: 35777863 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a heterogeneous disease, requiring treatment tailored to the unique phenotype of the patient's tumor. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and variants thereof have enabled targeted therapies to selectively target cancer cells. Cancer cell-specific mAbs have been used for image-guided surgery and targeted delivery of radionuclides or toxic agents, improving classical treatment strategies. Cancer cell-specific mAbs can further inhibit tumor cell growth or can stimulate immune-mediated destruction of cancer cells, a feature that has also been achieved through mAb-mediated manipulation of immune cells and pathways. Drawbacks of mAbs and their variants, together with the discovery of camelid heavy chain-only antibodies and the many advantageous features of their variable domains, referred to as VHHs, single domain antibodies or nanobodies (Nbs), resulted in the exploration of Nbs as an alternative targeting moiety. We therefore review the state-of-the-art as well as novel exploitation strategies of Nbs for targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Maximilian Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fien Meeus
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hannelore Ceuppens
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Heleen Hanssens
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Quentin Lecocq
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lukasz Mateusiak
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katty Zeven
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hana Valenta
- Lab for Nanobiology, Department of Chemistry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Timo W M De Groof
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yannick De Vlaeminck
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ahmet Krasniqi
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kim De Veirman
- Laboratory for Hematology and Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cleo Goyvaerts
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Matthias D'Huyvetter
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sophie Hernot
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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Pande K, Hollingsworth SA, Sam M, Gao Q, Singh S, Saha A, Vroom K, Ma XS, Brazell T, Gorman D, Chen SJ, Raoufi F, Bailly M, Grandy D, Sathiyamoorthy K, Zhang L, Thompson R, Cheng AC, Fayadat-Dilman L, Geierstanger BH, Kingsley LJ. Hexamerization of Anti-SARS CoV IgG1 Antibodies Improves Neutralization Capacity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:864775. [PMID: 35603164 PMCID: PMC9114490 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.864775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and particularly the emerging variants have deepened the need for widely available therapeutic options. We have demonstrated that hexamer-enhancing mutations in the Fc region of anti-SARS-CoV IgG antibodies lead to a noticeable improvement in IC50 in both pseudo and live virus neutralization assay compared to parental molecules. We also show that hexamer-enhancing mutants improve C1q binding to target surface. To our knowledge, this is the first time this format has been explored for application in viral neutralization and the studies provide proof-of-concept for the use of hexamer-enhanced IgG1 molecules as potential anti-viral therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalyan Pande
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | - Miranda Sam
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Qinshan Gao
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Sujata Singh
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Anasuya Saha
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Karin Vroom
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Xiaohong Shirley Ma
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Tres Brazell
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Dan Gorman
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Shi-Juan Chen
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Fahimeh Raoufi
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Marc Bailly
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - David Grandy
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | - Lan Zhang
- Infectious Disease and Vaccine Discovery, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA, United States
| | - Rob Thompson
- Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Alan C. Cheng
- Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Laura J. Kingsley
- Discovery Biologics, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
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