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Vasconcelos D, Pina A, Habib N, Sousa S. In silico analysis of aptamer-RNA conjugate interactions with human transferrin receptor. Biophys Chem 2024; 314:107308. [PMID: 39208499 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2024.107308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The human transmembrane protein Transferrin Receptor-1 is regarded as a promising target for the systemic delivery of therapeutic agents, particularly of nucleic acid therapeutics, such as short double stranded RNAs. This ubiquitous receptor is involved in cellular iron uptake, keeping intracellular homeostasis. It is overexpressed in multiple cancer cell types and is internalized via clathrin-mediated endocytosis. In previous studies, a human transferrin receptor-1 RNA aptamer, identified as TR14 ST1-3, was shown to be capable of effectively internalizing into cells in culture and to deliver small, double stranded RNAs in vitro and in vivo, via systemic administration. To understand, at the molecular level, the aptamer binding to the receptor and the impact of conjugation with the therapeutic RNA, a multi-level in silico protocol was employed, including protein-aptamer docking, molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations. The competition for the binding pocket, between the aptamer and the natural ligand human Transferrin, was also evaluated. The results show that the aptamer binds to the same region as Transferrin, with residues from the helical domain showing a critical role. Moreover, the conjugation to the therapeutic RNA, was shown not to affect aptamer binding. Overall, this study provides an atomic-level understanding of aptamer association to human Transferrin Receptor-1 and of its conjugation with a short model-therapeutic RNA, providing also important clues for futures studies aiming to deliver other oligonucleotide-based therapeutics via Transferrin Receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Vasconcelos
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; Apterna Ltd., London SW1P 2PN, UK; Center for Drug Discovery and Innovative Medicines (MedInUP), University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - André Pina
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, BioSIM - Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nagy Habib
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; Apterna Ltd., London SW1P 2PN, UK
| | - Sérgio Sousa
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, BioSIM - Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal.
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2
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Wang L, Yao Q, Guo X, Wang B, Si J, Wang X, Jing S, Yan M, Shi Y, Song G, Shen X, Guan J, Zhao Y, Zhu C. Targeted delivery of CEBPA-saRNA for the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by transferrin receptor aptamer decorated tetrahedral framework nucleic acid. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:392. [PMID: 38965606 PMCID: PMC11223357 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02665-4] [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: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, predominantly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), remains a highly lethal malignancy with limited therapeutic options and a dismal prognosis. By targeting the underlying molecular abnormalities responsible for PDAC development and progression, gene therapy offers a promising strategy to overcome the challenges posed by conventional radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This study sought to explore the therapeutic potential of small activating RNAs (saRNAs) specifically targeting the CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (CEBPA) gene in PDAC. To overcome the challenges associated with saRNA delivery, tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs) were rationally engineered as nanocarriers. These tFNAs were further functionalized with a truncated transferrin receptor aptamer (tTR14) to enhance targeting specificity for PDAC cells. The constructed tFNA-based saRNA formulation demonstrated exceptional stability, efficient saRNA release ability, substantial cellular uptake, biocompatibility, and nontoxicity. In vitro experiments revealed successful intracellular delivery of CEBPA-saRNA utilizing tTR14-decorated tFNA nanocarriers, resulting in significant activation of tumor suppressor genes, namely, CEBPA and its downstream effector P21, leading to notable inhibition of PDAC cell proliferation. Moreover, in a mouse model of PDAC, the tTR14-decorated tFNA-mediated delivery of CEBPA-saRNA effectively upregulated the expression of the CEBPA and P21 genes, consequently suppressing tumor growth. These compelling findings highlight the potential utility of saRNA delivered via a designed tFNA nanocarrier to induce the activation of tumor suppressor genes as an innovative therapeutic approach for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
- Joint Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational Medicine, Puheng Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Qunyan Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Geriatric Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuerui Guo
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bingmei Wang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Jingyi Si
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xingye Wang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Shisong Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Yan
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Yan Shi
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Guangqi Song
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Joint Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational Medicine, Puheng Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Xizhong Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiyu Guan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China.
| | - Yicheng Zhao
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
- College of Clinical Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China.
- Joint Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational Medicine, Puheng Technology, Suzhou, China.
| | - Changfeng Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Bi CQ, Kang T, Qian YK, Kang M, Zeng XH, Li LC. Upregulation of LHPP by saRNA inhibited hepatocellular cancer cell proliferation and xenograft tumor growth. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299522. [PMID: 38696452 PMCID: PMC11065268 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299522] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer worldwide and no pharmacological treatment is available that can achieve complete remission of HCC. Phospholysine phosphohistidine inorganic pyrophosphate phosphatase (LHPP) is a recently identified HCC tumor suppressor gene which plays an important role in the development of HCC and its inactivation and reactivation has been shown to result in respectively HCC tumorigenesis and suppression. Small activating RNAs (saRNAs) have been used to achieve targeted activation of therapeutic genes for the restoration of their encoded protein through the RNAa mechanism. Here we designed and validated saRNAs that could activate LHPP expression at both the mRNA and protein levels in HCC cells. Activation of LHPP by its saRNAs led to the suppression of HCC proliferation, migration and the inhibition of Akt phosphorylation. When combined with targeted anticancer drugs (e.g., regorafenib), LHPP saRNA exhibited synergistic effect in inhibiting in vitro HCC proliferation and in vivo antitumor growth in a xenograft HCC model. Findings from this study provides further evidence for a tumor suppressor role of LHPP and potential therapeutic value of restoring the expression of LHPP by saRNA for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan-Qian Bi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Kang
- Ractigen Therapeutics, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu-Kang Qian
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Moorim Kang
- Ractigen Therapeutics, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu-Hui Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Long-Cheng Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Ractigen Therapeutics, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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Chintamaneni PK, Pindiprolu SKSS, Swain SS, Karri VVSR, Nesamony J, Chelliah S, Bhaskaran M. Conquering chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer: Exploring novel drug therapies and delivery approaches amidst desmoplasia and hypoxia. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216782. [PMID: 38453046 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer poses a significant challenge within the field of oncology due to its aggressive behaviour, limited treatment choices, and unfavourable outlook. With a mere 10% survival rate at the 5-year mark, finding effective interventions becomes even more pressing. The intricate relationship between desmoplasia and hypoxia in the tumor microenvironment further complicates matters by promoting resistance to chemotherapy and impeding treatment efficacy. The dense extracellular matrix and cancer-associated fibroblasts characteristic of desmoplasia create a physical and biochemical barrier that impedes drug penetration and fosters an immunosuppressive milieu. Concurrently, hypoxia nurtures aggressive tumor behaviour and resistance to conventional therapies. a comprehensive exploration of emerging medications and innovative drug delivery approaches. Notably, advancements in nanoparticle-based delivery systems, local drug delivery implants, and oxygen-carrying strategies are highlighted for their potential to enhance drug accessibility and therapeutic outcomes. The integration of these strategies with traditional chemotherapies and targeted agents reveals the potential for synergistic effects that amplify treatment responses. These emerging interventions can mitigate desmoplasia and hypoxia-induced barriers, leading to improved drug delivery, treatment efficacy, and patient outcomes in pancreatic cancer. This review article delves into the dynamic landscape of emerging anticancer medications and innovative drug delivery strategies poised to overcome the challenges imposed by desmoplasia and hypoxia in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavan Kumar Chintamaneni
- Department of Pharmaceutics, GITAM School of Pharmacy, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Rudraram, 502329 Telangana, India.
| | | | - Swati Swagatika Swain
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Jerry Nesamony
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Toledo HSC, 3000 Arlington Avenue, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA
| | - Selvam Chelliah
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX-77004, USA
| | - Mahendran Bhaskaran
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Toledo HSC, 3000 Arlington Avenue, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA.
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El-Tanani M, Nsairat H, Aljabali AA, Matalka II, Alkilany AM, Tambuwala MM. Dual-loaded liposomal carriers to combat chemotherapeutic resistance in breast cancer. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:309-324. [PMID: 38284386 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2311812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The resistance to chemotherapy is a significant hurdle in breast cancer treatment, prompting the exploration of innovative strategies. This review discusses the potential of dual-loaded liposomal carriers to combat chemoresistance and improve outcomes for breast cancer patients. AREAS COVERED This review discusses breast cancer chemotherapy resistance and dual-loaded liposomal carriers. Drug efflux pumps, DNA repair pathways, and signaling alterations are discussed as chemoresistance mechanisms. Liposomes can encapsulate several medicines and cargo kinds, according to the review. It examines how these carriers improve medication delivery, cancer cell targeting, and tumor microenvironment regulation. Also examined are dual-loaded liposomal carrier improvement challenges and techniques. EXPERT OPINION The use of dual-loaded liposomal carriers represents a promising and innovative strategy in the battle against chemotherapy resistance in breast cancer. This article has explored the various mechanisms of chemoresistance in breast cancer, emphasizing the potential of dual-loaded liposomal carriers to overcome these challenges. These carriers offer versatility, enabling the encapsulation and precise targeting of multiple drugs with different modes of action, a crucial advantage when dealing with the complexity of breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed El-Tanani
- College of Pharmacy, RAK Medical & Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
- Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Center, Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hamdi Nsairat
- Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Center, Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Alaa A Aljabali
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ismail I Matalka
- Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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Goh KW, Stephen A, Wu YS, Sim MS, Batumalaie K, Gopinath SC, Guad RM, Kumar A, Sekar M, Subramaniyan V, Fuloria NK, Fuloria S, Velaga A, Sarker MMR. Molecular Targets of Aptamers in Gastrointestinal Cancers: Cancer Detection, Therapeutic Applications, and Associated Mechanisms. J Cancer 2023; 14:2491-2516. [PMID: 37670975 PMCID: PMC10475355 DOI: 10.7150/jca.85260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are among the most common cancers that impact the global population, with high mortality and low survival rates after breast and lung cancers. Identifying useful molecular targets in GI cancers are crucial for improving diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment outcomes, however, limited by poor targeting and drug delivery system. Aptamers are often utilized in the field of biomarkers identification, targeting, and as a drug/inhibitor delivery cargo. Their natural and chemically modifiable binding capability, high affinity, and specificity are favored over antibodies and potential early diagnostic imaging and drug delivery applications. Studies have demonstrated the use of different aptamers as drug delivery agents and early molecular diagnostic and detection probes for treating cancers. This review aims to first describe aptamers' generation, characteristics, and classifications, also providing insights into their recent applications in the diagnosis and medical imaging, prognosis, and anticancer drug delivery system of GI cancers. Besides, it mainly discussed the relevant molecular targets and associated molecular mechanisms involved, as well as their applications for potential treatments for GI cancers. In addition, the current applications of aptamers in a clinical setting to treat GI cancers are deciphered. In conclusion, aptamers are multifunctional molecules that could be effectively used as an anticancer agent or drug delivery system for treating GI cancers and deserve further investigations for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khang Wen Goh
- Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, 71800 Nilai, Malaysia
| | - Annatasha Stephen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Yuan Seng Wu
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Selangor 47500, Malaysia
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Selangor 47500, Malaysia
| | - Maw Shin Sim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Kalaivani Batumalaie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Asia Metropolitan University, 81750 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Subash C.B. Gopinath
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering & Technology, Arau 02600, Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering, Kangar 01000, Micro System Technology, Centre of Excellence, Arau 02600, Pauh Campus, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Perlis, Malaysia
- Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), 01000 Kangar, Perlis, Malaysia
- Micro System Technology, Centre of Excellence (CoE), Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Pauh Campus, 02600 Arau, Perlis, Malaysia
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Faculty of Science and Information Technology, Daffodil International University, Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Rhanye Mac Guad
- Department of Biomedical Science and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Centre, Kansas City, Kansas 66103, United States
| | - Mahendran Sekar
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Vetriselvan Subramaniyan
- Department of Pharmacology, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, MONASH University, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Selangor 42610, Malaysia
| | - Neeraj Kumar Fuloria
- Centre of Excellence for Biomaterials Engineering & Faculty of Pharmacy, AIMST University, Bedong 08100, Malaysia
- Center for Transdisciplinary Research, Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, India
| | - Shivkanya Fuloria
- Faculty of Pharmacy, AIMST University, Semeling, Bedong 08100, Malaysia
| | - Appalaraju Velaga
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, MAHSA University, Selangor 42610, Malaysia
| | - Md. Moklesur Rahman Sarker
- Department of Pharmacy, State University of Bangladesh, 77 Satmasjid Road, Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
- Health Med Science Research Network, 3/1, Block F, Lalmatia, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
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Gregory GL, Copple IM. Modulating the expression of tumor suppressor genes using activating oligonucleotide technologies as a therapeutic approach in cancer. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 31:211-223. [PMID: 36700046 PMCID: PMC9840112 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) are frequently downregulated in cancer, leading to dysregulation of the pathways that they control. The continuum model of tumor suppression suggests that even subtle changes in TSG expression, for example, driven by epigenetic modifications or copy number alterations, can lead to a loss of gene function and a phenotypic effect. This approach to exploring tumor suppression provides opportunities for alternative therapies that may be able to restore TSG expression toward normal levels, such as oligonucleotide therapies. Oligonucleotide therapies involve the administration of exogenous nucleic acids to modulate the expression of specific endogenous genes. This review focuses on two types of activating oligonucleotide therapies, small-activating RNAs and synthetic mRNAs, as novel methods to increase the expression of TSGs in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgina L. Gregory
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular & Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Ian M. Copple
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular & Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
- Corresponding author: Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular & Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK.
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8
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Recent developments of nanomedicine delivery systems for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2022.104042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Lin W, Chen L, Meng W, Yang K, Wei S, Wei W, Chen J, Zhang L. C/EBPα promotes porcine pre-adipocyte proliferation and differentiation via mediating MSTRG.12568.2/FOXO3 trans-activation for STYX. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2022; 1867:159206. [PMID: 35870701 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2022.159206] [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: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
As a key adipogenic marker, C/EBPα (CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α) is also an important factor in regulating targets containing CCAAT element for transcription, whose products include coding and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). However, knowledge of the mechanism of C/EBPα affecting pre-adipocyte proliferation and adipogenesis through regulating ncRNA is still limited. In this study, we firstly conducted an investigation concerning the impact of C/EBPα knockdown on porcine pre-adipocytes by using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) to identify the role of key ncRNAs, especially lncRNAs and their correlated mRNAs in regulating proliferation and differentiation of porcine pre-adipocytes. 97 differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs and 4 DE lncRNAs were identified in si-C/EBPα groups compared with the si-NC groups. Meanwhile, we found C/EBPα directly target the promoter of a novel lncRNA, namely MSTRG.12568.2, which was trans-correlated with STYX (serine/threonine/tyrosine interacting protein), an important candidate gene for regulating cell proliferation. Moreover, FOXO3 (forkhead box O3) was identified as a co-regulator with MSTR.12568.2 for STYX. Overexpression and knockdown of any of the MSTRG.12568.2, STYX, and FOXO3 increased and decreased the levels of pre-adipocyte proliferation and differentiation, respectively, which demonstrated that they played a positive role in adipogenesis of pre-adipocytes. Moreover, our results revealed that FOXO3 was necessary for MSTRG.12568.2 to trans-activate STYX. We revealed that C/EBPα regulated pre-adipocyte proliferation and differentiation through mediating trans-activation of MSTRG.12568.2-FOXO3 to STYX. These results provide a novel regulation signal for C/EBPα to influence porcine pre-adipocyte proliferation and differentiation and greatly benefit to our understanding of molecular mechanism regulating subcutaneous adipogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weimin Lin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China; Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Sanya, Hainan 572024, China; College of Animal Science, Fujian Agriculture & Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China
| | - Lei Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Wenjing Meng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Kai Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Shengjuan Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Wei Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Jie Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Lifan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China; Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Sanya, Hainan 572024, China.
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10
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Mojarad-Jabali S, Mahdinloo S, Farshbaf M, Sarfraz M, Fatahi Y, Atyabi F, Valizadeh H. Transferrin receptor-mediated liposomal drug delivery: recent trends in targeted therapy of cancer. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2022; 19:685-705. [PMID: 35698794 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2022.2083106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Compared to normal cells, malignant cancer cells require more iron for their growth and rapid proliferation, which can be supplied by a high expression level of transferrin receptor (TfR). It is well known that the expression of TfR on the tumor cells is considerably higher than that of normal cells, which makes TfR an attractive target in cancer therapy. AREAS COVERED In this review, the primary focus is on the role of TfR as a valuable tool for cancer-targeted drug delivery, followed by the full coverage of available TfR ligands and their conjugation chemistry to the surface of liposomes. Finally, the most recent studies investigating the potential of TfR-targeted liposomes as promising drug delivery vehicles to different cancer cells are highlighted with emphasis on their improvement possibilities to become a part of future cancer medicines. EXPERT OPINION Liposomes as a valuable class of nanocarriers have gained much attention toward cancer therapy. From all the studies that have exploited the therapeutic and diagnostic potential of TfR on cancer cells, it can be realized that the systematic assessment of TfR ligands applied for liposomal targeted delivery has yet to be entirely accomplished.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solmaz Mojarad-Jabali
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student research committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Somayeh Mahdinloo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student research committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Masoud Farshbaf
- Student research committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Muhammad Sarfraz
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Yousef Fatahi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Atyabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadi Valizadeh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Dai H, Abdullah R, Wu X, Li F, Ma Y, Lu A, Zhang G. Pancreatic Cancer: Nucleic Acid Drug Discovery and Targeted Therapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:855474. [PMID: 35652096 PMCID: PMC9149368 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.855474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most lethal cancers with an almost 10% 5-year survival rate. Because PC is implicated in high heterogeneity, desmoplastic tumor-microenvironment, and inefficient drug-penetration, the chemotherapeutic strategy currently recommended for the treatment of PC has limited clinical benefit. Nucleic acid-based targeting therapies have become strong competitors in the realm of drug discovery and targeted therapy. A vast evidence has demonstrated that antibody-based or alternatively aptamer-based strategy largely contributed to the elevated drug accumulation in tumors with reduced systematic cytotoxicity. This review describes the advanced progress of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), messenger RNA (mRNAs), and aptamer-drug conjugates (ApDCs) in the treatment of PC, revealing the bright application and development direction in PC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Dai
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Razack Abdullah
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute for the Advancement of Chinese medicine (IACM) .Ltd, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Wu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Fangfei Li
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine and Innovative Drug Discovery, HKBU Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuan Ma
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine and Innovative Drug Discovery, HKBU Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Aiping Lu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine and Innovative Drug Discovery, HKBU Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine and Innovative Drug Discovery, HKBU Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
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12
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Liu S, Xu Y, Jiang X, Tan H, Ying B. Translation of aptamers toward clinical diagnosis and commercialization. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 208:114168. [PMID: 35364525 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The dominance of antibodies in diagnostics has gradually changed following the discovery of aptamers in the early 1990s. Aptamers offer inherent advantages over traditional antibodies, including higher specificity, higher affinity, smaller size, greater stability, ease of manufacture, and low immunogenicity, rendering them the best candidates for point-of-care testing (POCT). In the past 20 years, the research community and pharmaceutical companies have made great efforts to promote the development of aptamer technology. Macugen® (pegaptanib) was the first aptamer drug approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and various aptamer-based diagnostics show great promise in preclinical research and clinical trials. In this review, we introduce recent literature, ongoing clinical trials, commercial reagents of aptamer-based diagnostics, discuss the FDA regulatory mechanisms, and highlight the prospects and challenges in translating these studies into viable clinical diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Liu
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Department of Medical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Yixin Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Med+ Molecular Diagnostics Institute of West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Med+ Molecular Diagnostics Institute of West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Hong Tan
- Department of General Surgery, Chengdu Integrated TCM&Western Medicine Hospital (Chengdu First People's Hospital), Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Binwu Ying
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Med+ Molecular Diagnostics Institute of West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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13
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Christopher JA, Geladaki A, Dawson CS, Vennard OL, Lilley KS. Subcellular Transcriptomics and Proteomics: A Comparative Methods Review. Mol Cell Proteomics 2022; 21:100186. [PMID: 34922010 PMCID: PMC8864473 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2021.100186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The internal environment of cells is molecularly crowded, which requires spatial organization via subcellular compartmentalization. These compartments harbor specific conditions for molecules to perform their biological functions, such as coordination of the cell cycle, cell survival, and growth. This compartmentalization is also not static, with molecules trafficking between these subcellular neighborhoods to carry out their functions. For example, some biomolecules are multifunctional, requiring an environment with differing conditions or interacting partners, and others traffic to export such molecules. Aberrant localization of proteins or RNA species has been linked to many pathological conditions, such as neurological, cancer, and pulmonary diseases. Differential expression studies in transcriptomics and proteomics are relatively common, but the majority have overlooked the importance of subcellular information. In addition, subcellular transcriptomics and proteomics data do not always colocate because of the biochemical processes that occur during and after translation, highlighting the complementary nature of these fields. In this review, we discuss and directly compare the current methods in spatial proteomics and transcriptomics, which include sequencing- and imaging-based strategies, to give the reader an overview of the current tools available. We also discuss current limitations of these strategies as well as future developments in the field of spatial -omics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josie A Christopher
- Department of Biochemistry, Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Milner Therapeutics Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Aikaterini Geladaki
- Department of Biochemistry, Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Charlotte S Dawson
- Department of Biochemistry, Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Milner Therapeutics Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Owen L Vennard
- Department of Biochemistry, Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Milner Therapeutics Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kathryn S Lilley
- Department of Biochemistry, Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Milner Therapeutics Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, UK.
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14
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Tan CP, Sinigaglia L, Gomez V, Nicholls J, Habib NA. RNA Activation-A Novel Approach to Therapeutically Upregulate Gene Transcription. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26216530. [PMID: 34770939 PMCID: PMC8586927 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA activation (RNAa) is a mechanism whereby RNA oligos complementary to genomic sequences around the promoter region of genes increase the transcription output of their target gene. Small activating RNA (saRNA) mediate RNAa through interaction with protein co-factors to facilitate RNA polymerase II activity and nucleosome remodeling. As saRNA are small, versatile and safe, they represent a new class of therapeutics that can rescue the downregulation of critical genes in disease settings. This review highlights our current understanding of saRNA biology and describes various examples of how saRNA are successfully used to treat various oncological, neurological and monogenic diseases. MTL-CEBPA, a first-in-class compound that reverses CEBPA downregulation in oncogenic processes using CEBPA-51 saRNA has entered clinical trial for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Preclinical models demonstrate that MTL-CEBPA reverses the immunosuppressive effects of myeloid cells and allows for the synergistic enhancement of other anticancer drugs. Encouraging results led to the initiation of a clinical trial combining MTL-CEBPA with a PD-1 inhibitor for treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choon Ping Tan
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
| | - Laura Sinigaglia
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
| | - Valentí Gomez
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
| | - Joanna Nicholls
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Nagy A. Habib
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)20-3313-8574
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15
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Lavania S, Gupta VK, Saluja A. The Rise of Aptamers: Promising Avenues in the Treatment of Solid Tumors. Gastroenterology 2021; 161:804-806. [PMID: 34174244 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.06.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Lavania
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida.
| | - Vineet K Gupta
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Ashok Saluja
- Department of Surgery and, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
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16
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Mahajan UM, Li Q, Alnatsha A, Maas J, Orth M, Maier SH, Peterhansl J, Regel I, Sendler M, Wagh PR, Mishra N, Xue Y, Allawadhi P, Beyer G, Kühn JP, Marshall T, Appel B, Lämmerhirt F, Belka C, Müller S, Weiss FU, Lauber K, Lerch MM, Mayerle J. Tumor-Specific Delivery of 5-Fluorouracil-Incorporated Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Targeted Aptamers as an Efficient Treatment in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Models. Gastroenterology 2021; 161:996-1010.e1. [PMID: 34097885 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.05.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS & AIMS Fluoropyrimidine c (5-fluorouracil [5FU]) increasingly represents the chemotherapeutic backbone for neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and palliative treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Even in combination with other agents, 5FU efficacy remains transient and limited. One explanation for the inadequate response is insufficient and nonspecific delivery of 5FU to the tumor. METHODS We designed, generated, and characterized 5FU-incorporated systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX)-selected epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-targeted aptamers for tumor-specific delivery of 5FU to PDAC cells and tested their therapeutic efficacy in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS 5FU-EGFR aptamers reduced proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner in mouse and human pancreatic cancer cell lines. Time-lapsed live imaging showed EGFR-specific uptake of aptamers via clathrin-dependent endocytosis. The 5FU-aptamer treatment was equally effective in 5FU-sensitive and 5FU-refractory PDAC cell lines. Biweekly treatment with 5FU-EGFR aptamers reduced tumor burden in a syngeneic orthotopic transplantation model of PDAC, in an autochthonously growing genetically engineered PDAC model (LSL-KrasG12D/+;LSL-Trp53flox/+;Ptf1a-Cre [KPC]), in an orthotopic cell line-derived xenograft model using human PDAC cells in athymic mice (CDX; Crl:NU-Foxn1nu), and in patient-derived organoids. Tumor growth was significantly attenuated during 5FU-EGFR aptamer treatment in the course of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Tumor-specific targeted delivery of 5FU using EGFR aptamers as the carrier achieved high target specificity; overcame 5FU resistance; and proved to be effective in a syngeneic orthotopic transplantation model, in KPC mice, in a CDX model, and in patient-derived organoids and, therefore, represents a promising backbone for pancreatic cancer chemotherapy in patients. Furthermore, our approach has the potential to target virtually any cancer entity sensitive to 5FU treatment by incorporating 5FU into cancer cell-targeting aptamers as the delivery platform.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic/administration & dosage
- Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic/metabolism
- Aptamers, Nucleotide/administration & dosage
- Aptamers, Nucleotide/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/pathology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Endocytosis
- ErbB Receptors/genetics
- ErbB Receptors/metabolism
- Female
- Fluorouracil/administration & dosage
- Fluorouracil/metabolism
- Humans
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Transgenic
- Organoids
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/genetics
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/metabolism
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/pathology
- SELEX Aptamer Technique
- Tumor Burden/drug effects
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Ujjwal M Mahajan
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Qi Li
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ahmed Alnatsha
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jessica Maas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Orth
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Julian Peterhansl
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ivonne Regel
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Sendler
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Preshit R Wagh
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Neha Mishra
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Yonggan Xue
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Georg Beyer
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jens-Peter Kühn
- Institute and Policlinic of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical University, Carl-Gustav-Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Marshall
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Bettina Appel
- Institute of Biochemistry, University Greifswald, Germany
| | - Felix Lämmerhirt
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Claus Belka
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Sabine Müller
- Institute of Biochemistry, University Greifswald, Germany
| | - Frank-Ulrich Weiss
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Kirsten Lauber
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus M Lerch
- Department of Medicine A, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; LMU Klinikum, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia Mayerle
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany; Department of Medicine A, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.
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17
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Shigdar S, Schrand B, Giangrande PH, de Franciscis V. Aptamers: Cutting edge of cancer therapies. Mol Ther 2021; 29:2396-2411. [PMID: 34146729 PMCID: PMC8353241 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of an aptamer-based therapeutic has rapidly progressed following the first two reports in the 1990s, underscoring the advantages of aptamer drugs associated with their unique binding properties. In 2004, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first therapeutic aptamer for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration, Macugen developed by NeXstar. Since then, eleven aptamers have successfully entered clinical trials for various therapeutic indications. Despite some of the pre-clinical and clinical successes of aptamers as therapeutics, no aptamer has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of cancer. This review highlights the most recent and cutting-edge approaches in the development of aptamers for the treatment of cancer types most refractory to conventional therapies. Herein, we will review (1) the development of aptamers to enhance anti-cancer immunity and as delivery tools for inducing the expression of immunogenic neoantigens; (2) the development of the most promising therapeutic aptamers designed to target the hard-to-treat cancers such as brain tumors; and (3) the development of "carrier" aptamers able to target and penetrate tumors and metastasis, delivering RNA therapeutics to the cytosol and nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Shigdar
- School of Medicine and Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - Brett Schrand
- TCR(2) Therapeutics, Inc., 100 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Paloma H Giangrande
- Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; VP Platform Discovery Sciences, Biology, Wave Life Sciences, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Vittorio de Franciscis
- Institute of Genetic and Biomedical Research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Milan, Italy; Initiative for RNA Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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18
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Aptamers: a novel targeted theranostic platform for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Radiat Oncol 2020; 15:189. [PMID: 32758252 PMCID: PMC7409417 DOI: 10.1186/s13014-020-01624-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely challenging disease with a high mortality rate and a short overall survival time. The poor prognosis can be explained by aggressive tumor growth, late diagnosis, and therapy resistance. Consistent efforts have been made focusing on early tumor detection and novel drug development. Various strategies aim at increasing target specificity or local enrichment of chemotherapeutics as well as imaging agents in tumor tissue. Aptamers have the potential to provide early detection and permit anti-cancer therapy with significantly reduced side effects. These molecules are in-vitro selected single-stranded oligonucleotides that form stable three-dimensional structures. They are capable of binding to a variety of molecular targets with high affinity and specificity. Several properties such as high binding affinity, the in vitro chemical process of selection, a variety of chemical modifications of molecular platforms for diverse function, non-immunoreactivity, modification of bioavailability, and manipulation of pharmacokinetics make aptamers attractive targets compared to conventional cell-specific ligands. To explore the potential of aptamers for early diagnosis and targeted therapy of PDAC - as single agents and in combination with radiotherapy - we summarize the generation process of aptamers and their application as biosensors, biomarker detection tools, targeted imaging tracers, and drug-delivery carriers. We are furthermore discussing the current implementation aptamers in clinical trials, their limitations and possible future utilization.
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19
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The "Janus" Role of C/EBPs Family Members in Cancer Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124308. [PMID: 32560326 PMCID: PMC7352866 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBPs) constitute a family of transcription factors composed of six members that are critical for normal cellular differentiation in a variety of tissues. They promote the expression of genes through interaction with their promoters. Moreover, they have a key role in regulating cellular proliferation through interaction with cell cycle proteins. C/EBPs are considered to be tumor suppressor factors due to their ability to arrest cell growth (contributing to the terminal differentiation of several cell types) and for their role in cellular response to DNA damage, nutrient deprivation, hypoxia, and genotoxic agents. However, C/EBPs can elicit completely opposite effects on cell proliferation and cancer development and they have been described as both tumor promoters and tumor suppressors. This "Janus" role of C/EBPs depends on different factors, such as the type of tumor, the isoform/s expressed in cells, the type of dimerization (homo- or heterodimerization), the presence of inhibitory elements, and the ability to inhibit the expression of other tumor suppressors. In this review, we discuss the implication of the C/EBPs family in cancer, focusing on the molecular aspects that make these transcription factors tumor promoters or tumor suppressors.
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20
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Liu K, Xie F, Zhao T, Zhang R, Gao A, Chen Y, Li H, Zhang S, Xiao Z, Li J, Hong X, Shang L, Huang W, Wang J, El-Rifai W, Zaika A, Chen X, Que J, Lan X. Targeting SOX2 Protein with Peptide Aptamers for Therapeutic Gains against Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Mol Ther 2020; 28:901-913. [PMID: 31991109 PMCID: PMC7054732 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Revised: 12/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a predominant cancer type in developing countries such as China, where ESCC accounts for approximately 90% of esophageal malignancies. Lacking effective and targeted therapy contributes to the poor 5-year survival rate. Recent studies showed that about 30% of ESCC cases have high levels of SOX2. Herein, we aim to target this transcription factor with aptamer. We established a peptide aptamer library and then performed an unbiased screening to identify several peptide aptamers including P42 that can bind and inhibit SOX2 downstream target genes. We further found that P42 overexpression or incubation with a synthetic peptide 42 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of ESCC cells. Moreover, peptide 42 treatment inhibited the growth and metastasis of ESCC xenografts in mouse and zebrafish. Further analysis revealed that P42 overexpression led to alternations in the levels of proteins that are important for the proliferation and migration of ESCC cells. Taken together, our study identified the peptide 42 as a key inhibitor of SOX2 function, reducing the proliferation and migration of ESCC cells in vitro and in vivo, and thereby offering a potential therapy against ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuancan Liu
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University or Institute for Laboratory Medicine, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China,Dongfang Hospital, Xiamen University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China,Fuzhou General Hospital Clinical Medical School, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350025, China,Corresponding author: Kuancan Liu, School of Medicine, Xiamen University or Institute for Laboratory Medicine, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China.
| | - Fuan Xie
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University or Institute for Laboratory Medicine, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China
| | - Tingting Zhao
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University or Institute for Laboratory Medicine, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China,Dongfang Hospital, Xiamen University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University or Institute for Laboratory Medicine, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China
| | - Anding Gao
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University or Institute for Laboratory Medicine, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China
| | - Yunyun Chen
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University or Institute for Laboratory Medicine, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China,Dongfang Hospital, Xiamen University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China
| | - Haiyan Li
- Department of Pathology, Westechester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Shihui Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, China
| | - Zhangwu Xiao
- Emergency Department, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China
| | - Jieping Li
- Department of Clinic Medical Laboratory, General Hospital of Fujian Corps of CAPF, Fuzhou, Fujian 350003, China
| | - Xiaoqian Hong
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University or Institute for Laboratory Medicine, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China,Dongfang Hospital, Xiamen University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China
| | - Lei Shang
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University or Institute for Laboratory Medicine, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China,Dongfang Hospital, Xiamen University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China
| | - Weifeng Huang
- Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, China
| | - Junkai Wang
- School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Wael El-Rifai
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Alexander Zaika
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team or Dongfang Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China
| | - Jianwen Que
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA,Corresponding author: Jianwen Que, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Xiaopeng Lan
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University or Institute for Laboratory Medicine, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, China
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