Emerging nanomedicines of paclitaxel for cancer treatment

Ferrocene-Conjugated Paclitaxel Prodrug for Combined Chemo-Ferroptosis Therapy of Cancer

Herein, we developed a paclitaxel prodrug (PSFc) through the conjugation of paclitaxel (PTX) and ferrocene via a redox-responsive disulfide bond. PSFc displays acid-enhanced catalytic activity of Fenton reaction and is capable of forming stable nanoparticles (PSFc NPs) through the assembly with distearoyl phosphoethanolamine-PEG2000. After being endocytosed, PSFc NPs could release PTX to promote cell apoptosis in response to overexpressed redox-active species of tumor cells. Meanwhile, the ferrocene-mediated Fenton reaction promotes intracellular accumulation of hydroxyl radicals and depletion of glutathione, thus leading to ferroptosis. Compared with the clinically used Taxol, PSFc NPs exhibited more potent in vivo antitumor outcomes through the combined effect of chemotherapy and ferroptosis. This study may offer insight into a facile design of a prodrug integrating different tumor treatment methods for combating malignant tumors.

Nobiletin regulates the proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer A2780 cells via DPP4 and TXNIP

Nobiletin is an active compound extracted from citrus fruits. Research has indicated that nobiletin has a potential inhibitory effect on ovarian cancer (OV). However, the mechanism of action remains unclear. The OV A2780 cells were treated using nobiletin, cell viability was examined using a cell counting kit-8 experiment, and cell migration was examined with a wound healing experiment. Nobiletin targets were retrieved from target databases. Differentially expressed genes (DEG) and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were conducted on GSE26712 (OV). The intersection of the critical genes for nobiletin's action on OV and gene enrichment and immune infiltration analyses were performed. The Cancer Genome Atlas-OV data and molecular docking helped validate the findings. After adding nobiletin, cell viability and migration significantly decreased (P < 0.01). A total of 88 nobiletin targets and 1288 DEG were identified. The intersection genes were enriched inflammatory response and response to hypoxia. The most related module obtained from WGCNA contained 414 genes (correlation coefficient = 0.77, P < 0.01). DPP4 and TXNIP were recognized as the hub genes. The abundance of macrophages M2 and mast cells activated significantly enhanced with increased DPP4 expression (P < 0.05). The binding energy between DPP4/TXNIP and nobiletin was - 7.012/ - 7.184 kcal/mol, forming 5/2 hydrogen bonds. Nobiletin effectively suppresses the viability and migration of OV A2780 cells. In this process, DPP4 and TXNIP are the key target, immune regulation, and oxidative stress playing significant roles.

Improved therapeutic index of the liposomal docetaxel-glutathione prepared by active click loading

The clinical usage of docetaxel (DTX) is severely hindered by the dose-limiting neutropenia and peripheral neurotoxicity of polysorbate 80-solubilized DTX injection, and there are no alternative formulations until now. In this study, we developed a new liposomal formulation of DTX to reduce its toxicities, accompanying with the greatly improved antitumor activity. The DTX was encapsulated into liposomes in the form of hydrophilic glutathione (GSH)-conjugated prodrugs using a click drug loading method, which achieved a high encapsulation efficiency (∼95 %) and loading capacity (∼30 % wt). The resulting liposomal DTX-GSH provided a sustained and efficient DTX release (∼50 % within 48 h) in plasma, resulting in a greatly improved antitumor activities as compared with that of polysorbate 80-solubilized DTX injection in the subcutaneous and orthotopic 4 T1 breast tumor bearing mice. Even large tumors > 500 mm3 could be effectively inhibited and shrunk after the administration of liposomal DTX-GSH. More importantly, the liposomal DTX-GSH significantly decreased the neutropenia and peripheral neurotoxicity as compared with that of polysorbate 80-solubilized DTX injection at the equivalent dose. These data suggested that the liposomal DTX-GSH might become a superior alternative formulation to the commercial DTX injection.

Unveiling the potential of FOXO3 in lung cancer: From molecular insights to therapeutic prospects

Lung cancer poses a significant challenge regarding molecular heterogeneity, as it encompasses a wide range of molecular alterations and cancer-related pathways. Recent discoveries made it feasible to thoroughly investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying lung cancer, giving rise to the possibility of novel therapeutic strategies relying on molecularly targeted drugs. In this context, forkhead box O3 (FOXO3), a member of forkhead transcription factors, has emerged as a crucial protein commonly dysregulated in cancer cells. The regulation of the FOXO3 in reacting to external stimuli plays a key role in maintaining cellular homeostasis as a component of the molecular machinery that determines whether cells will survive or dies. Indeed, various extrinsic cues regulate FOXO3, affecting its subcellular location and transcriptional activity. These regulations are mediated by diverse signaling pathways, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), and protein interactions that eventually drive post-transcriptional modification of FOXO3. Nevertheless, while it is no doubt that FOXO3 is implicated in numerous aspects of lung cancer, it is unclear whether they act as tumor suppressors, promotors, or both based on the situation. However, FOXO3 serves as an intriguing possible target in lung cancer therapeutics while widely used anti-cancer chemo drugs can regulate it. In this review, we describe a summary of recent findings on molecular mechanisms of FOXO3 to clarify that targeting its activity might hold promise in lung cancer treatment.

Induced dual-target rebalance simultaneously enhances efficient therapeutical efficacy in tumors

Multiple gene abnormalities are major drivers of tumorigenesis. NF-κB p65 overactivation and cGAS silencing are important triggers and genetic defects that accelerate tumorigenesis. However, the simultaneous correction of NF-κB p65 and cGAS abnormalities remains to be further explored. Here, we propose a novel Induced Dual-Target Rebalance (IDTR) strategy for simultaneously correcting defects in cGAS and NF-κB p65. By using our IDTR approach, we showed for the first time that oncolytic adenovirus H101 could reactivate silenced cGAS, while silencing GAU1 long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) inhibited NF-κB p65 overactivation, resulting in efficient in vitro and in vivo antitumor efficacy in colorectal tumors. Intriguingly, we further demonstrated that oncolytic adenoviruses reactivated cGAS by promoting H3K4 trimethylation of the cGAS promoter. In addition, silencing GAU1 using antisense oligonucleotides significantly reduced H3K27 acetylation at the NF-κB p65 promoter and inhibited NF-κB p65 transcription. Our study revealed an aberrant therapeutic mechanism underlying two tumor defects, cGAS and NF-κB p65, and provided an alternative IDTR approach based on oncolytic adenovirus and antisense oligonucleotides for efficient therapeutic efficacy in tumors.

Shape Matters: Impact of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticle Morphology on Anti-Tumor Efficacy

A nanoparticle's shape is a critical determinant of its biological interactions and therapeutic effectiveness. This study investigates the influence of shape on the performance of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) in anticancer therapy. MSNs with spherical, rod-like, and hexagonal-plate-like shapes were synthesized, with particle sizes of around 240 nm, and their other surface properties were characterized. The drug loading capacities of the three shapes were controlled to be 47.46%, 49.41%, and 46.65%, respectively. The effects of shape on the release behaviors, cellular uptake mechanisms, and pharmacological behaviors of MSNs were systematically investigated. Through a series of in vitro studies using 4T1 cells and in vivo evaluations in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice, the release kinetics, cellular behaviors, pharmacological effects, circulation profiles, and therapeutic efficacy of MSNs were comprehensively assessed. Notably, hexagonal-plate-shaped MSNs loaded with PTX exhibited a prolonged circulation time (t1/2 = 13.59 ± 0.96 h), which was approximately 1.3 times that of spherical MSNs (t1/2 = 10.16 ± 0.38 h) and 1.5 times that of rod-shaped MSNs (t1/2 = 8.76 ± 1.37 h). This research underscores the significance of nanoparticles' shapes in dictating their biological interactions and therapeutic outcomes, providing valuable insights for the rational design of targeted drug delivery systems in cancer therapy.

TEDC2 plays an oncogenic role and serves as a therapeutic target of hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies and tends to have a poor prognosis due to its insidious onset, difficulty in early diagnosis, and limited treatment options. Tubulin epsilon and delta complex 2 (TEDC2), also known as C16orf59, is implicated in maintaining centriole stability, but the involvement of TEDC2 in HCC remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the expression profile and potential mechanisms of TEDC2 in HCC.

METHODS

Multiple RNA sequencing datasets were screened for differentially expressed genes in HCC, and the prognosis-related gene, TEDC2, was further screened as a target gene in this study. The expression of TEDC2 in public datasets and clinical specimens was analyzed, and the involvement of TEDC2 in HCC was investigated by bioinformatic analysis and in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

TEDC2 levels were elevated in HCC compared to healthy livers. Overexpression of TEDC2 was positively correlated with pathologic stage and histologic grade. In addition, TEDC2 was found to be an independent prognostic predictor. An excellent prognostic model of HCC was successfully constructed with TEDC2 in combination with the TNM stage. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that overexpression of TEDC2 might be associated with impaired tumor immunity in HCC, as evidenced by increased infiltration of T helper 2 (Th2) cells and reduced infiltration of cytotoxic cells. Further studies showed that TP53 mutations regulated TEDC2 expression, and TEDC2 was significantly associated with drug sensitivity. Moreover, overexpression of TEDC2 promoted cell metastasis and proliferation in vitro.

CONCLUSION

These findings initially suggested a crucial effect of TEDC2 overexpression on HCC tumor progression, suggesting its potential as a novel prognostic and therapeutic target in HCC.

Natural-product-based, carrier-free, noncovalent nanoparticles for tumor chemo-photodynamic combination therapy

Cancer, with its diversity, heterogeneity, and complexity, is a significant contributor to global morbidity, disability, and mortality, highlighting the necessity for transformative treatment approaches. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has aroused continuous interest as a viable alternative to conventional cancer treatments that encounter drug resistance. Nanotechnology has brought new advances in medicine and has shown great potential in drug delivery and cancer treatment. For precise and efficient therapeutic utilization of such a tumor therapeutic approach with high spatiotemporal selectivity and minimal invasiveness, the carrier-free noncovalent nanoparticles (NPs) based on chemo-photodynamic combination therapy is essential. Utilizing natural products as the foundation for nanodrug development offers unparalleled advantages, including exceptional pharmacological activity, easy functionalization/modification, and well biocompatibility. The natural-product-based, carrier-free, noncovalent NPs revealed excellent synergistic anticancer activity in comparison with free photosensitizers and free bioactive natural products, representing an alternative and favorable combination therapeutic avenue to improve therapeutic efficacy. Herein, a comprehensive summary of current strategies and representative application examples of carrier-free noncovalent NPs in the past decade based on natural products (such as paclitaxel, 10-hydroxycamptothecin, doxorubicin, etoposide, combretastatin A4, epigallocatechin gallate, and curcumin) for tumor chemo-photodynamic combination therapy. We highlight the insightful design and synthesis of the smart carrier-free NPs that aim to enhance PDT efficacy. Meanwhile, we discuss the future challenges and potential opportunities associated with these NPs to provide new enlightenment, spur innovative ideas, and facilitate PDT-mediated clinical transformation.

Sialic Acid Conjugate-Modified Cationic Liposomal Paclitaxel for Targeted Therapy of Lung Metastasis in Breast Cancer: What a Difference the Cation Content Makes

Cationic lipids play a pivotal role in developing novel drug delivery systems for diverse biomedical applications, owing to the success of mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 and the Phase III antitumor agent EndoTAG-1. However, the therapeutic potential of these positively charged liposomes is limited by dose-dependent toxicity. While an increased content of cationic lipids in the formulation can enhance the uptake and cytotoxicity toward tumor-associated cells, it is crucial to balance these advantages with the associated toxic side effects. In this work, we synthesized the cationic lipid HC-Y-2 and incorporated it into sialic acid (SA)-modified cationic liposomes loaded with paclitaxel to target tumor-associated immune cells efficiently. The SA-modified cationic liposomes exhibited enhanced binding affinity toward both RAW264.7 cells and 4T1 tumor cells in vitro due to the increased ratios of cationic HC-Y-2 content while effectively inhibiting 4T1 cell lung metastasis in vivo. By leveraging electrostatic forces and ligand-receptor interactions, the SA-modified cationic liposomes specifically target malignant tumor-associated immune cells such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), reduce the proportion of cationic lipids in the formulation, and achieve dual objectives: high cellular uptake and potent antitumor efficacy. These findings highlight the potential advantages of this innovative approach utilizing cationic liposomes.

Self-assembled nanodrug delivery systems for anti-cancer drugs from traditional Chinese medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a combination of raw herbs and herbal extracts with a plethora of documented beneficial bioactivities, which has unique advantages in anti-tumor therapy, and many of its major bioactive molecules have been identified in recent years due to advances in chemical separation and structural analysis. However, the major chemical classes of plant-derived bioactive compounds frequently possess chemical properties, including poor water solubility, stability, and bioavailability, that limit their therapeutic application. Alternatively, natural small molecules (NSMs) containing these components possess modifiable groups, multiple action sites, hydrophobic side chains, and a rigid skeleton with self-assembly properties that can be exploited to construct self-assembled nanoparticles with therapeutic effects superior to their individual constituents. For instance, the construction of a self-assembled nanodrug delivery system can effectively overcome the strong hydrophobicity and poor in vivo stability of NSMs, thereby greatly improving their bioavailability and enhancing their anti-tumor efficacy. This review summarizes the self-assembly methods, mechanisms, and applications of a variety of NSMs, including terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, and saponins, providing a theoretical basis for the subsequent research on NSMs and the development of SANDDS.

Electrospun multi-chamber core-shell nanofibers and their controlled release behaviors: A review

Core-shell structure is a concentric circle structure found in nature. The rapid development of electrospinning technology provides more approaches for the production of core-shell nanofibers. The nanoscale effects and expansive specific surface area of core-shell nanofibers can facilitate the dissolution of drugs. By employing ingenious structural designs and judicious polymer selection, specialized nanofiber drug delivery systems can be prepared to achieve controlled drug release. The synergistic combination of core-shell structure and materials exhibits a strong strategy for enhancing the drug utilization efficiency and customizing the release profile of drugs. Consequently, multi-chamber core-shell nanofibers hold great promise for highly efficient disease treatment. However, little attention concentration is focused on the effect of multi-chamber core-shell nanofibers on controlled release of drugs. In this review, we introduced different fabrication techniques for multi-chamber core-shell nanostructures, including advanced electrospinning technologies and surface functionalization. Subsequently, we reviewed the different controlled drug release behaviors of multi-chamber core-shell nanofibers and their potential needs for disease treatment. The comprehensive elucidation of controlled release behaviors based on electrospun multi-chamber core-shell nanostructures could inspire the exploration of novel controlled delivery systems. Furthermore, once these fibers with customizable drug release profiles move toward industrial mass production, they will potentially promote the development of pharmacy and the treatment of various diseases. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies.

Nanoparticles loaded withβ-Lapachone and Fe3+exhibit enhanced chemodynamic therapy by producing H2O2through cascaded amplification

The rapid, irreversible change of active Fe2+to inactive Fe3+after the Fenton reaction occurring reduces the chemodynamic therapeutic (CDT) effect. Therefore, manipulation of the tumor microenvironment to provide sufficient hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) while maintaining metal ion catalyst activity is critical for effective CDT. Here,β-Lapachone (LPC) was loaded by mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) and coated with polydopamine (PDA) to further chelate Fe3+and link aptamer AS1411, and a pH-controlled released, chemotherapy-photothermal therapy (PTT)-enhanced CDT-small molecule therapy combination drug delivery system with passive and active tumor targeting was engineered (designated asβ-LPC@MSN@PDA/Fe3+-AS1411, LMPFA). The results showed that LFMPA nanoparticles massively accumulated in tumor tissues to achieve tumor targeting through AS1411 mediating and enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Subsequently, PDA released Fe3+and LPC through acid response to exhibited CDT and chemotherapeutic therapy. Meanwhile, the photothermal effect of PDA promoted the release of LPC from the pores of MSN. LPC exerted chemotherapy effect and cyclically producing of H2O2by the catalysis of NQO1, which enhanced the CDT activated by Fe3+. In addition, while serving as a targeted ligand, AS1411 could also exhibit a small molecule therapeutic effect by binding to nucleoli of tumor cells. This unique nano delivery system achieved the combination of chemotherapy, PTT, enhanced CDT and small molecule therapy, and fought against malignant tumors synergistically through multi-target and multi-dimension.

Recent advances and clinical translation of liposomal delivery systems in cancer therapy

The limitations of conventional cancer treatment are driving the emergence and development of nanomedicines. Research in liposomal nanomedicine for cancer therapy is rapidly increasing, opening up new horizons for cancer treatment. Liposomal nanomedicine, which focuses on targeted drug delivery to improve the therapeutic effect of cancer while reducing damage to normal tissues and cells, has great potential in the field of cancer therapy. This review aims to clarify the advantages of liposomal delivery systems in cancer therapy. We describe the recent understanding of spatiotemporal fate of liposomes in the organism after different routes of drug administration. Meanwhile, various types of liposome-based drug delivery systems that exert their respective advantages in cancer therapy while reducing side effects were discussed. Moreover, the combination of liposomal agents with other therapies (such as photodynamic therapy and photothermal therapy) has demonstrated enhanced tumor-targeting efficiency and therapeutic efficacy. Finally, the opportunities and challenges faced by the field of liposome nanoformulations for entering the clinical treatment of cancer are highlighted.

Synthesis and Characterization of Paclitaxel-Loaded PEGylated Liposomes by the Microfluidics Method

For cancer therapy, paclitaxel (PX) possesses several limitations, including limited solubility and untargeted effects. Loading PX into nanoliposomes to enhance PX solubility and target their delivery as a drug delivery system has the potential to overcome these limitations. Over the other conventional method to prepare liposomes, a microfluidic system is used to formulate PX-loaded PEGylated liposomes. The impact of changing the flow rate ratio (FRR) between the aqueous and lipid phases on the particle size and polydispersity index (PDI) is investigated. Moreover, the effect of changing the polyethylene glycol (PEG) lipid ratio on the particle size, PDI, stability, encapsulation efficiency % (EE %), and release profile is studied. The physicochemical characteristics of the obtained formulation were analyzed by dynamic light scattering, FTIR spectroscopy, and AFM. This work aims to use microfluidic technology to produce PEGylated PX-loaded liposomes with a diameter of <200 nm, low PDI < 0.25 high homogeneity, and viable 28 day stability. The results show a significant impact of FRR and PEG lipid ratio on the empty liposomes' physicochemical characteristics. Among the prepared formulations, two formulations produce size-controlled, low PDI, and stable liposomes, which make them preferable for PX encapsulation. The average EE % was >90% for both formulations, and the variation in the PEG lipid ratio affected the EE % slightly; a high packing for PX was reported at different drug concentrations. A variation in the release profiles was notified for the different PEG lipid ratios.

Disturbing cytoskeleton by engineered nanomaterials for enhanced cancer therapeutics

Cytoskeleton plays a significant role in the shape change, migration, movement, adhesion, cytokinesis, and phagocytosis of tumor cells. In clinical practice, some anti-cancer drugs achieve cytoskeletal therapeutic effects by acting on different cytoskeletal protein components. However, in the absence of cell-specific targeting, unnecessary cytoskeletal recombination in organisms would be disastrous, which would also bring about severe side effects during anticancer process. Nanomedicine have been proven to be superior to some small molecule drugs in cancer treatment due to better stability and targeting, and lower side effects. Therefore, this review summarized the recent developments of various nanomaterials disturbing cytoskeleton for enhanced cancer therapeutics, including carbon, noble metals, metal oxides, black phosphorus, calcium, silicon, polymers, peptides, and metal-organic frameworks, etc. A comprehensive analysis of the characteristics of cytoskeleton therapy as well as the future prospects and challenges towards clinical application were also discussed. We aim to drive on this emerging topic through refreshing perspectives based on our own work and what we have also learnt from others. This review will help researchers quickly understand relevant cytoskeletal therapeutic information to further advance the development of cancer nanomedicine.

Cytotoxic Activity of Wild Plant and Callus Extracts of Ageratina pichinchensis and 2,3-Dihydrobenzofuran Isolated from a Callus Culture

Ageratina pichinchensis (Kunth) R.M. King & H. Rob. belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a plant native to Mexico to which several biological properties are attributed. In this study, the cytotoxic effect of four extracts from the wild plants and two extracts from A. pichinchensis callus culture were evaluated against carcinogenic cell lines including prostate carcinoma, cervical cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatoma human, lung cancer, and cellular keratinocytes. The extracts were obtained with ethyl acetate and methanol using both leaves and stems or the callus. Only the ethyl acetate extract of the callus culture influenced the cervical cancer cell line (HeLa) with an IC50 of 94.79 ± 2.0 µg/mL. From the ethyl acetate callus extract, 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran was isolated and purified and also evaluated against cancer cells. The cytotoxic evaluation of this compound showed a significant effect against the HeLa cell line with an IC50 of 23.86 ± 2.5 µg/mL. Our results contribute to the development of biotechnological alternatives and extraction processes to produce compounds with possible potential against certain types of human cancer.

Formation of a traditional Chinese medicine self-assembly nanostrategy and its application in cancer: a promising treatment

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries to prevent and treat a variety of illnesses, and its popularity is increasing worldwide. However, the clinical applications of natural active components in TCM are hindered by the poor solubility and low bioavailability of these compounds. To address these issues, Chinese medicine self-assembly nanostrategy (CSAN) is being developed. Many active components of TCM possess self-assembly properties, allowing them to form nanoparticles (NPs) through various noncovalent forces. Self-assembled NPs (SANs) are also present in TCM decoctions, and they are closely linked to the therapeutic effects of these remedies. SAN is gaining popularity in the nano research field due to its simplicity, eco-friendliness, and enhanced biodegradability and biocompatibility compared to traditional nano preparation methods. The self-assembly of active ingredients from TCM that exhibit antitumour effects or are combined with other antitumour drugs has generated considerable interest in the field of cancer therapeutics. This paper provides a review of the principles and forms of CSAN, as well as an overview of recent reports on TCM that can be used for self-assembly. Additionally, the application of CSAN in various cancer diseases is summarized, and finally, a concluding summary and thoughts are proposed. We strongly believe that CSAN has the potential to offer fresh strategies and perspectives for the modernization of TCM.

Redox-Responsive Lipidic Prodrug Nano-Delivery System Improves Antitumor Effect of Curcumin Derivative C210

The poor bioavailability of curcumin and its derivatives limits their antitumor efficacy and clinical translation. Although curcumin derivative C210 has more potent antitumor activity than curcumin, it has a similar deficiency to curcumin. In order to improve its bioavailability and accordingly enhance its antitumor activity in vivo, we developed a redox-responsive lipidic prodrug nano-delivery system of C210. Briefly, we synthesized three conjugates of C210 and oleyl alcohol (OA) via different linkages containing single sulfur/disulfide/carbon bonds and prepared their nanoparticles using a nanoprecipitation method. The prodrugs required only a very small amount of DSPE-PEG2000 as a stabilizer to self-assemble in aqueous solution to form nanoparticles (NPs) with a high drug loading capacity (~50%). Among them, the prodrug (single sulfur bond) nanoparticles (C210-S-OA NPs) were the most sensitive to the intracellular redox level of cancer cells; therefore, they could rapidly release C210 in cancer cells and thus had the strongest cytotoxicity to cancer cells. Furthermore, C210-S-OA NPs exerted a dramatic improvement in its pharmacokinetic behavior; that is, the area under the curve (AUC), mean retention time and accumulation in tumor tissue were 10, 7 and 3 folds that of free C210, respectively. Thus, C210-S-OA NPs exhibited the strongest antitumor activity in vivo than C210 or other prodrug NPs in mouse models of breast cancer and liver cancer. The results demonstrated that the novel prodrug self-assembled redox-responsive nano-delivery platform was able to improve the bioavailability and antitumor activity of curcumin derivative C210, which provides a basis for further clinical applications of curcumin and its derivatives.

Synchronized delivery of dual-drugs for potentiating combination chemotherapy based on smart triple-responsive polymeric micelles

Here, we combined reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and amide coupling reaction to develop a novel drug-polymer conjugate using poly(AMA-co-IMMA)-b-poly(OEGMA) (termed as PAIPO) as nanocarriers. In order to enhance cellular uptake and obtain subsequent endo/lysosomal escape capacity, the dual-drugs-conjugated prodrug was then coupled with 2,3-dimethylmaleimide (DA) moieties and implanted with imidazolyl groups, respectively. Paclitaxel (PTX) was conjugated to PAIPO via 3,3'-dithiodipropionic acid (DPA) to construct a GSH-responsive moiety, while doxorubicin (DOX) was conjugated to PAIPO via 4-formyl benzoic acid to construct a pH-responsive moiety, which synergistically enabled a synchronized and precise drug delivery. The micelles self-assembled from DOX/PTX@PAIPO^DA showed an ideal average diameter (163.2-178.3 nm), contributing to passive targeting by the EPR effect. Moreover, a switch of the surface Zeta potential of micelles from steady negatively charged (- 9.74 ± 0.54 mV) at pH 7.4 to positively charged (+ 6.33 ± 1.25 mV) at pH 6.5, facilitated the long blood circulation and cellular endocytosis of micelles, respectively. More importantly, in vitro studies confirmed that ^DAM(DOX_n/PTX) exhibited a strong synergism against tumor cells, and under slightly acidic conditions (pH 6.5), the combination index (CI) values for ^DAM(DOX₁/PTX) on HeLa and Skov-3 cells were estimated to be 0.47 and 0.49 (previous to be 0.50 and 0.56 at pH 7.4), respectively. And in vivo results showed effective tumor accumulation potential, remarkable biosafety, and biocompatibility. Combined, such synchronized delivery approach based on multi-responsive micelles might potentiate the efficacy of combination chemotherapy in clinical cancer treatment.

Transcytosable Peptide-Paclitaxel Prodrug Nanoparticle for Targeted Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an extremely aggressive subtype associated with a poor prognosis. At present, the treatment for TNBC mainly relies on surgery and traditional chemotherapy. As a key component in the standard treatment of TNBC, paclitaxel (PTX) effectively inhibits the growth and proliferation of tumor cells. However, the application of PTX in clinical treatment is limited due to its inherent hydrophobicity, weak penetrability, nonspecific accumulation, and side effects. To counter these problems, we constructed a novel PTX conjugate based on the peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) strategy. In this PTX conjugate, a novel fused peptide TAR consisting of a tumor-targeting peptide, A7R, and a cell-penetrating peptide, TAT, is used to modify PTX. After modification, this conjugate is named PTX-SM-TAR, which is expected to improve the specificity and penetrability of PTX at the tumor site. Depending on hydrophilic TAR peptide and hydrophobic PTX, PTX-SM-TAR can self-assemble into nanoparticles and improve the water solubility of PTX. In terms of linkage, the acid- and esterase-sensitive ester bond was used as the linking bond, with which PTX-SM-TAR NPs could remain stable in the physiological environment, whereas PTX-SM-TAR NPs could be broken and PTX be released at the tumor site. A cell uptake assay showed that PTX-SM-TAR NPs were receptor-targeting and could mediate endocytosis by binding to NRP-1. The vascular barrier, transcellular migration, and tumor spheroids experiments showed that PTX-SM-TAR NPs exhibit great transvascular transport and tumor penetration ability. In vivo experiments, PTX-SM-TAR NPs showed higher antitumor effects than PTX. As a result, PTX-SM-TAR NPs may overcome the shortcomings of PTX and present a new transcytosable and targeted delivery system for PTX in TNBC treatment.

Combined Thermosensitive Gel Co-Loaded with Dermaseptin-PP and PTX Liposomes for Effective Local Chemotherapy

Introduction

Chemotherapeutic drugs are often ineffective due to the delivery. Local chemotherapy, which has high drug concentration, low systemic toxicity, and long duration, has shown excellent potential. Cationic antimicrobial peptides have been proved to enhance the tumor cells' uptake of chemotherapeutic drugs through the membrane-breaking effect. In this study, we designed and developed a thermosensitive gel co-loaded with Dermaseptin-PP and paclitaxel liposomes to increase local chemotherapy.

Methods

The paclitaxel liposomes were prepared. Then, it was co-loaded with Dermaseptin-PP in a poloxamer-based thermosensitive gel to obtain Dermaseptin-PP/paclitaxel liposomes gel. The thermosensitivity of gels was investigated by test tube inversion method. The rheology was tested by rheometer. The in vitro cytotoxicity and the permeation in tumor of gels were examined by H157 cells and the 3D cell model, respectively. The retention in tumor and antitumor activity of gels were evaluated by H157 tumor-bearing nude mice.

Results

The particle size of paclitaxel liposomes was 148.97 ± 0.21 nm. The encapsulation rate was 86.1%, and the drug loading capacity was 19.4%. The gels had slow-release and temperature-sensitive properties. The porous 3D network structure of the gels could ensure that the drug was fixed into the tumor. In vitro and in vivo distribution studies showed that Dermaseptin-PP promoted the permeation of the gels in H157 multicellular tumor spheres and achieved longer retention in tumor. In vitro and in vivo antitumor studies demonstrated that Dermaseptin-PP/paclitaxel liposomes gel significantly inhibited the growth of tumors for local chemotherapy with good biosafety.

Conclusion

This study provided a promising nanomedicine platform for combining antimicrobial peptides and chemotherapeutic drugs for local chemotherapy.

Tumor Targeting and pH-Sensitive Inclusion Complex Based on HP-β-CD as a Potential Carrier for Paclitaxel: Fabrication, Molecular Docking, and Characterization

In this study, a tumor-targeting and pH-sensitive inclusion complex based on the host-guest recognition between the chitosan and folic acid grafted HP-β-CD (FA-CS-CD) and stearic acid modified 2-benzimidazolemethanol (BM-SA) was designed and fabricated for the controlled delivery of paclitaxel (PTX). Through the combination of computational simulations and experiments, the interaction between FA-CS-CD, BM-SA, and PTX was investigated, and the optimized preparation method was obtained. For the optimized PTX-loaded FA-CS-CD/BM-SA inclusion complex, the particle size and zeta potential were 146 nm and +15.4 mV, respectively. In vitro drug release study revealed the pH-triggered drug release behavior of the inclusion complex. Both in vitro and in vivo evaluations demonstrated that the PTX-loaded FA-CS-CD/BM-SA inclusion complex exhibited enhanced antitumor efficiency and minimized systemic toxicity. This system might be a promising carrier for PTX.

Tumor-targeting intravenous lipid emulsion of paclitaxel: Characteristics, stability, toxicity, and toxicokinetics

Lipid nanoemulsions are promising nanodrug delivery carriers that can improve the efficacy and safety of paclitaxel (PTX). However, no intravenous lipid emulsion of PTX has been approved for clinical treatment, and systemic safety profiles have not yet been reported. Here we outline the development of a PTX-loaded tumor-targeting intravenous lipid emulsion (PTX Emul) and describe its characteristics, colloidal stability, and systemic safety profiles in terms of acute toxicity, long-term toxicity, and toxicokinetics. We also compare PTX Emul with conventional PTX injection. Results showed that PTX Emul exhibited an ideal average particle size (approximately 160 nm) with narrow size distribution and robust colloidal stability under different conditions. Hypersensitivity reaction and hemolysis tests revealed that PTX Emul did not induce hypersensitivity reactions and had no hemolytic potential. In addition, where the alleviated systemic toxicity of PTX Emul may be attributed to the altered toxicokinetic characteristics in beagle dogs, including the decreased AUC and increased plasma clearance and volume of distribution, PTX Emul alleviated acute and long-term toxicity as evidenced by the enhanced the median lethal dose and approximate lethal dose, moderate body weight change, decreased bone marrow suppression and organ toxicity compared with those under PTX injection at the same dose. A fundamental understanding of the systemic safety profiles, high tumor-targeting efficiency, and superior antitumor activity in vivo of PTX Emul can provide powerful evidence of its therapeutic potential as a future treatment for breast cancer.

AIE-Featured Redox-Sensitive Micelles for Bioimaging and Efficient Anticancer Drug Delivery

In the present study, an amphiphilic polymer was prepared by conjugating methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) (mPEG) with tetraphenylethene (TPE) via disulfide bonds (Bi(mPEG-S-S)-TPE). The polymer could self-assemble into micelles and solubilize hydrophobic anticancer drugs such as paclitaxel (PTX) in the core. Combining the effect of TPE, mPEG, and disulfide bonds, the Bi(mPEG-S-S)-TPE micelles exhibited excellent AIE feature, reduced protein adsorption, and redox-sensitive drug release behavior. An in vitro intracellular uptake study demonstrated the great imaging ability and efficient internalization of Bi(mPEG-S-S)-TPE micelles. The excellent anticancer effect and low systemic toxicity were further evidenced by the in vivo anticancer experiment. The Bi(mPEG-S-S)-TPE micelles were promising drug carriers for chemotherapy and bioimaging.

MIL-125-based nanocarrier decorated with Palladium complex for targeted drug delivery

The aim of this work was to provide a novel approach to designing and synthesizing a nanocomposite with significant biocompatibility, biodegradability, and stability in biological microenvironments. Hence, the porous ultra-low-density materials, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), have been considered and the MIL-125(Ti) has been chosen due to its distinctive characteristics such as great biocompatibility and good biodegradability immobilized on the surface of the reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Based on the results, the presence of transition metal complexes next to the drug not only can reinforce the stability of the drug on the structure by preparing π-π interaction between ligands and the drug but also can enhance the efficiency of the drug by preventing the spontaneous release. The effect of utilizing transition metal complex beside drug (Doxorubicin (DOX)) on the drug loading, drug release, and antibacterial activity of prepared nanocomposites on the P. aeruginosa and S. aureus as a model bacterium has been investigated and the results revealed that this theory leads to increasing about 200% in antibacterial activity. In addition, uptake, the release of the drug, and relative cell viabilities (in vitro and in vivo) of prepared nanomaterials and biomaterials have been discussed. Based on collected data, the median size of prepared nanocomposites was 156.2 nm, and their biological stability in PBS and DMEM + 10% FBS was screened and revealed that after 2.880 min, the nanocomposite's size reached 242.3 and 516 nm respectively. The MTT results demonstrated that immobilizing PdL beside DOX leads to an increase of more than 15% in the cell viability. It is noticeable that the AST:ALT result of prepared nanocomposite was under 1.5.

The Cytoprotective, Cytotoxic and Nonprotective Functional Forms of Autophagy Induced by Microtubule Poisons in Tumor Cells—Implications for Autophagy Modulation as a Therapeutic Strategy

Microtubule poisons, as is the case with other antitumor drugs, routinely promote autophagy in tumor cells. However, the nature and function of the autophagy, in terms of whether it is cytoprotective, cytotoxic or nonprotective, cannot be predicted; this likely depends on both the type of drug studied as well as the tumor cell under investigation. In this article, we explore the literature relating to the spectrum of microtubule poisons and the nature of the autophagy induced. We further speculate as to whether autophagy inhibition could be a practical strategy for improving the response to cancer therapy involving these drugs that have microtubule function as a primary target.

Taxanes prodrug-based nanomedicines for cancer therapy

Malignant tumor remains a huge threat to human health and chemotherapy still occupies an important place in clinical tumor treatment. As a kind of potent antimitotic agent, taxanes act as the first-line broad-spectrum cancer drug in clinical use. However, disadvantages such as prominent hydrophobicity, severe off-target toxicity or multidrug resistance lead to unsatisfactory therapeutic effects, which restricts its wider usage. The efficient delivery of taxanes is still quite a challenge despite the rapid developments in biomaterials and nanotechnology. Great progress has been made in prodrug-based nanomedicines (PNS) for cancer therapy due to their outstanding advantages such as high drug loading efficiency, low carrier induced immunogenicity, tumor stimuli-responsive drug release, combinational therapy and so on. Based on the numerous developments in this filed, this review summarized latest updates of taxanes prodrugs-based nanomedicines (TPNS), focusing on polymer-drug conjugate-based nanoformulations, small molecular prodrug-based self-assembled nanoparticles and prodrug-encapsulated nanosystems. In addition, the new trends of tumor stimuli-responsive TPNS were also discussed. Moreover, the future challenges of TPNS for clinical translation were highlighted. We here expect this review will inspire researchers to explore more practical taxanes prodrug-based nano-delivery systems for clinical use.