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Malyško-Ptašinskė V, Nemeikaitė-Čėnienė A, Radzevičiūtė-Valčiukė E, Mickevičiūtė E, Malakauskaitė P, Lekešytė B, Novickij V. Threshold Interphase Delay for Bipolar Pulses to Prevent Cancellation Phenomenon during Electrochemotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8774. [PMID: 39201461 PMCID: PMC11354671 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168774] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Electroporation-based procedures employing nanosecond bipolar pulses are commonly linked to an undesirable phenomenon known as the cancelation effect. The cancellation effect arises when the second pulse partially or completely neutralizes the effects of the first pulse, simultaneously diminishing cells' plasma membrane permeabilization and the overall efficiency of the procedure. Introducing a temporal gap between the positive and negative phases of the bipolar pulses during electroporation procedures may help to overcome the cancellation phenomenon; however, the exact thresholds are not yet known. Therefore, in this work, we have tested the influence of different interphase delay values (from 0 ms to 95 ms) using symmetric bipolar nanoseconds (300 and 500 ns) on cell permeabilization using 10 Hz, 100 Hz, and 1 kHz protocols. As a model mouse hepatoma, the MH-22a cell line was employed. Additionally, we conducted in vitro electrochemotherapy with cisplatin, employing reduced interphase delay values (0 ms and 0.1 ms) at 10 Hz. Cell plasma membrane permeabilization and viability dependence on a variety of bipolar pulsed electric field protocols were characterized. It was shown that it is possible to minimize bipolar cancellation, enabling treatment efficiency comparable to monophasic pulses with identical parameters. At the same time, it was highlighted that bipolar cancellation has a significant influence on permeabilization, while the effects on the outcome of electrochemotherapy are minimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Malyško-Ptašinskė
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 10223 Vilnius, Lithuania; (E.R.-V.); (E.M.); (P.M.); (B.L.)
| | - Aušra Nemeikaitė-Čėnienė
- Department of Immunology and Bioelectrochemistry, State Research Institute Centre of Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Eivina Radzevičiūtė-Valčiukė
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 10223 Vilnius, Lithuania; (E.R.-V.); (E.M.); (P.M.); (B.L.)
- Department of Immunology and Bioelectrochemistry, State Research Institute Centre of Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Eglė Mickevičiūtė
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 10223 Vilnius, Lithuania; (E.R.-V.); (E.M.); (P.M.); (B.L.)
- Department of Immunology and Bioelectrochemistry, State Research Institute Centre of Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Paulina Malakauskaitė
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 10223 Vilnius, Lithuania; (E.R.-V.); (E.M.); (P.M.); (B.L.)
- Department of Immunology and Bioelectrochemistry, State Research Institute Centre of Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Barbora Lekešytė
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 10223 Vilnius, Lithuania; (E.R.-V.); (E.M.); (P.M.); (B.L.)
- Department of Immunology and Bioelectrochemistry, State Research Institute Centre of Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Vitalij Novickij
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 10223 Vilnius, Lithuania; (E.R.-V.); (E.M.); (P.M.); (B.L.)
- Department of Immunology and Bioelectrochemistry, State Research Institute Centre of Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania;
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2
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Kranjc Brezar S. Transplantable Subcutaneous Tumor Models. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2773:67-76. [PMID: 38236537 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3714-2_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Mouse tumor models are essential in cancer research, especially in elucidating malignancy, developing prevention, diagnosis, and new therapeutic approaches. Nowadays, due to standardized ways of maintaining animal colonies and the availability of mouse strains with known genetic backgrounds and approaches to reduce the variability of tumor size between animals, transplantable mouse tumor models can be widely used in translational cancer research. Here, we describe the induction of different subcutaneous tumor models in mice, in particular xenograft and syngeneic that can be used as experimental tumor models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Kranjc Brezar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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3
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Ferioli M, Perrone AM, Buwenge M, Arcelli A, Vadala’ M, Fionda B, Malato MC, De Iaco P, Zamagni C, Cammelli S, Tagliaferri L, Morganti AG. Combination of Electrochemotherapy with Radiotherapy: A Comprehensive, Systematic, PRISMA-Compliant Review of Efficacy and Potential Radiosensitizing Effects in Tumor Control. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:9895-9905. [PMID: 37999139 PMCID: PMC10670517 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30110719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) and electrochemotherapy (ECT) are established local treatments for cancer. While effective, both therapies have limitations, especially in treating bulky and poorly oxygenated tumors. ECT has emerged as a promising palliative treatment, raising interest in exploring its combination with RT to enhance tumor response. However, the potential benefits and challenges of combining these treatments remain unclear. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane libraries were searched. Studies were screened and selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Ten studies were included, comprising in vitro and in vivo experiments. Different tumor types were treated with ECT alone or in combination with RT. ECT plus RT demonstrated superior tumor response compared to that under single therapies or other combinations, regardless of the cytotoxic agent and RT dose. However, no study demonstrated a clear superadditive effect in cell survival curves, suggesting inconclusive evidence of specific ECT-induced radiosensitization. Toxicity data were limited. In conclusion, the combination of ECT and RT consistently improved tumor response compared to that with individual therapies, supporting the potential benefit of their combination. However, evidence for a specific ECT-induced radiosensitization effect is currently lacking. Additional investigations are necessary to elucidate the potential benefits of this combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Ferioli
- Radiation Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.P.); (M.B.); (A.A.); (M.C.M.); (P.D.I.); (S.C.); (A.G.M.)
| | - Anna M. Perrone
- Radiation Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.P.); (M.B.); (A.A.); (M.C.M.); (P.D.I.); (S.C.); (A.G.M.)
- Division of Oncologic Gynaecology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Milly Buwenge
- Radiation Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.P.); (M.B.); (A.A.); (M.C.M.); (P.D.I.); (S.C.); (A.G.M.)
| | - Alessandra Arcelli
- Radiation Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.P.); (M.B.); (A.A.); (M.C.M.); (P.D.I.); (S.C.); (A.G.M.)
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Vadala’
- Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Bruno Fionda
- Dipartimento di Diagnostica per Immagini, Radioterapia Oncologica ed Ematologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, UOC di Radioterapia Oncologica, 00168 Roma, Italy; (B.F.); (L.T.)
| | - Maria C. Malato
- Radiation Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.P.); (M.B.); (A.A.); (M.C.M.); (P.D.I.); (S.C.); (A.G.M.)
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Pierandrea De Iaco
- Radiation Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.P.); (M.B.); (A.A.); (M.C.M.); (P.D.I.); (S.C.); (A.G.M.)
- Division of Oncologic Gynaecology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Zamagni
- Oncologia Medica Addarii, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Silvia Cammelli
- Radiation Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.P.); (M.B.); (A.A.); (M.C.M.); (P.D.I.); (S.C.); (A.G.M.)
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Tagliaferri
- Dipartimento di Diagnostica per Immagini, Radioterapia Oncologica ed Ematologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, UOC di Radioterapia Oncologica, 00168 Roma, Italy; (B.F.); (L.T.)
| | - Alessio G. Morganti
- Radiation Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.P.); (M.B.); (A.A.); (M.C.M.); (P.D.I.); (S.C.); (A.G.M.)
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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Campelo SN, Huang PH, Buie CR, Davalos RV. Recent Advancements in Electroporation Technologies: From Bench to Clinic. Annu Rev Biomed Eng 2023; 25:77-100. [PMID: 36854260 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-bioeng-110220-023800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decade, the increased adoption of electroporation-based technologies has led to an expansion of clinical research initiatives. Electroporation has been utilized in molecular biology for mammalian and bacterial transfection; for food sanitation; and in therapeutic settings to increase drug uptake, for gene therapy, and to eliminate cancerous tissues. We begin this article by discussing the biophysics required for understanding the concepts behind the cell permeation phenomenon that is electroporation. We then review nano- and microscale single-cell electroporation technologies before scaling up to emerging in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina N Campelo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA;
| | - Po-Hsun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cullen R Buie
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rafael V Davalos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA;
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Russano F, Del Fiore P, Di Prata C, Pasqual A, Marconato R, Campana LG, Spina R, Gianesini CM, Collodetto A, Tropea S, Dall’Olmo L, Carraro S, Parisi A, Galuppo S, Scarzello G, De Terlizzi F, Rastrelli M, Mocellin S. The Role of Electrochemotherapy in the Cutaneous and Subcutaneous Metastases From Breast Cancer: Analysis of Predictive Factors to Treatment From an Italian Cohort of Patients. Front Oncol 2021; 11:772144. [PMID: 34993137 PMCID: PMC8724516 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.772144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of cutaneous and subcutaneous localizations from breast cancer (BC) is still a therapeutic challenge. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is one of the available options, and it is characterized by the association between the administration of a chemotherapic agent (Bleomycin) with the temporary raise of permeability of the cellular membrane induced by the local administration of electrical impulses (electroporation). ECT represents an effective therapy for loco-regional control of this disease. This study aimed to investigate the predictive factors of response in cutaneous and subcutaneous localizations from breast cancer treated with ECT. We decided to evaluate the response to this treatment in 55 patients who underwent ECT between January 2013 and March 2020 at our Institute. We performed a monocentric retrospective cohort study. ECT was administered following the ESOPE (European Standard Operative Procedure of Electrochemotherapy) guidelines, a set of criteria updated in 2018 by a panel of European experts on ECT who defined the indications for selecting the patients who can benefit from the ECT treatment and the ones for technically performing the procedure. The responses were evaluated with the RECIST criteria (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumor). We found after 12 weeks of treatment a complete response (CR) in 64% of our patients. From the analysis divided for subgroups of covariates is emerged that lower BMI, reduced body surface, and absence of previous radiation treatment could be predictive for a better complete response. This study suggests that the efficacy of the ECT treatment is related to the concurrent systemic therapies while administering ECT. The association between ECT and immunotherapy has offered better results than the association between ECT and chemotherapy (p-value = 0.0463). So, ECT is a valuable tool in the treatment of cutaneous and subcutaneous metastases from breast cancer and its efficacy in local control of these lesions improves when it is well planned in a therapeutic scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Russano
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Paolo Del Fiore
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
- *Correspondence: Paolo Del Fiore,
| | - Claudia Di Prata
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Andrea Pasqual
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Roberto Marconato
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Luca Giovanni Campana
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Romina Spina
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Carlo Maria Gianesini
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandra Collodetto
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Saveria Tropea
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Luigi Dall’Olmo
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Sabrina Carraro
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandro Parisi
- Radiotherapy Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Sara Galuppo
- Radiotherapy Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scarzello
- Radiotherapy Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Marco Rastrelli
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Simone Mocellin
- Soft-Tissue, Peritoneum and Melanoma Surgical Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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6
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Ghorbel A, Mir LM, García-Sánchez T. Conductive nanoparticles improve cell electropermeabilization. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2019; 30:495101. [PMID: 31422958 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ab3be9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Conducive nanoparticles (NPs) were proposed to locally amplify the external electric field (EF) intensity at the cell surface to improve cell electroporation. To better understand the physical mechanisms behind this improvement, different types of NPs and several incubation conditions were applied to adherent cells in the present study. The enhancement of electroporation was observed in the presence of conductive NPs but not when non-conductive NPs were used. Experimental data demonstrate the influence of the incubation conditions between cells and NPs, which impact on the number and quality (aggregated or isolated) of the NPs surrounding the cells. While NPs can increase the number of electroporated cells, they have a more pronounced impact on the level permeabilization of each individual cell. Our results reveal the potential of conductive NPs to enhance the efficiency of electroporation via the amplification of the local EF at the cell surface as shown by numerical simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina Ghorbel
- Vectorology and Anticancer Therapies, UMR 8203, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Gustave Roussy, Université, Paris-Saclay, F-94805 Villejuif, France
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Campana LG, Mocellin S, Snoj M, Sersa G. A Dedicated Checklist to Improve the Quality of Reporting in Electrochemotherapy and Enable Comparisons with Other Skin-directed Therapies. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2019; 32:e127-e128. [PMID: 31699489 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2019.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L G Campana
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy.
| | - S Mocellin
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy; Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - M Snoj
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - G Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Campana LG, Kis E, Bottyán K, Orlando A, de Terlizzi F, Mitsala G, Careri R, Curatolo P, Snoj M, Sersa G, Valpione S, Quaglino P, Mowatt D, Brizio M, Schepler H. Electrochemotherapy for advanced cutaneous angiosarcoma: A European register-based cohort study from the International Network for Sharing Practices of electrochemotherapy (InspECT). Int J Surg 2019; 72:34-42. [PMID: 31618680 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2019.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous angiosarcoma (cAS) is a highly aggressive malignancy that challenges the radicality of surgical treatment. Electrochemotherapy (ECT), a skin-directed treatment based on cytotoxic chemotherapy combined with local electric pulses, may be an intraoperative adjunct and a new opportunity in the therapeutic strategy. This cohort study reports the experience with ECT as an option. METHODS Data on patients with locally-advanced/metastatic cAS who underwent ECT between October 2013 and October 2018 at eight European centres were prospectively submitted to the InspECT (International network for sharing practices of ECT) register. Patients received therapy according to the European Standard Operating Procedures of ECT (ESOPE). Treatment feasibility was assessed based on tumour coverage with electrodes and recorded tissue current; treatment toxicity and tumour response were graded according to CTCAE v5.0 and RECIST v1.1 criteria, respectively; patient-reported outcomes (PRO) were evaluated using a visual analogue score (VAS) for pain, acceptance of retreatment and the EQ-5D questionnaire. RESULTS We enrolled 20 patients with advanced cAS in the scalp/face (n = 7), breast/trunk (n = 10) or limbs (n = 3). Target tumours (n = 51) had a median size of 2.3 cm (range, 1-20). We administered 24 ECT courses using 1-4 cm treatment safety margin around tumours. In five patients, ECT was combined/sequenced with surgery. Median tissue current was 3 A (range, 1.5-10), tumour margins coverage rate was 75% (15/20 patients). The objective response rate (ORR) was 80% (complete, 40%). Grade-3 toxicity included skin ulceration (15%) and pain (10%), with no significant change of PRO scores. Bleeding control was achieved in 13/14 patients with ulcerated tumours. With a median overall survival of 12.5 months, the local progression-free survival (LPFS) was 10.9 months. CONCLUSION ECT produces sustained response rate with minimal side effects and should be considered an option for advanced cAS. Palliative benefits include patient tolerability, local haemostasis and durable local control. Definition of optimal timing, treatment safety margins and combination with surgery need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca G Campana
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences - DISCOG, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Erika Kis
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Bottyán
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Antonio Orlando
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Grammatiki Mitsala
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Rosanna Careri
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Dermatologic Clinic, University 'La Sapienza', Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Curatolo
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Dermatologic Clinic, University 'La Sapienza', Rome, Italy
| | - Marko Snoj
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sara Valpione
- The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, CRUK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Pietro Quaglino
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - David Mowatt
- Plastic Surgery Unit, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Matteo Brizio
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Hadrian Schepler
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
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9
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Campana LG, Edhemovic I, Soden D, Perrone AM, Scarpa M, Campanacci L, Cemazar M, Valpione S, Miklavčič D, Mocellin S, Sieni E, Sersa G. Electrochemotherapy - Emerging applications technical advances, new indications, combined approaches, and multi-institutional collaboration. Eur J Surg Oncol 2018; 45:92-102. [PMID: 30528893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2018.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of tumors with electrochemotherapy (ECT) has surged over the past decade. Thanks to the transient cell membrane permeabilization induced by the short electric pulses used by ECT, cancer cells are exposed to otherwise poorly permeant chemotherapy agents, with consequent increased cytotoxicity. The codification of the procedure in 2006 led to a broad diffusion of the procedure, mainly in Europe, and since then, the progressive clinical experience, together with the emerging technologies, have extended the range of its application. Herein, we review the key advances in the ECT field since the European Standard Operating Procedures on ECT (ESOPE) 2006 guidelines and discuss the emerging clinical data on the new ECT indications. First, technical developments have improved ECT equipment, with custom electrode probes and dedicated tools supporting individual treatment planning in anatomically challenging tumors. Second, the feasibility and short-term efficacy of ECT has been established in deep-seated tumors, including bone metastases, liver malignancies, and pancreatic and prostate cancers (long-needle variable electrode geometry ECT), and gastrointestinal tumors (endoscopic ECT). Moreover, pioneering studies indicate lung and brain tumors as suitable future targets. A further advance relates to new combination strategies with immunotherapy, gene electro transfer (GET), calcium EP, and radiotherapy. Finally and fourth, cross-institutional collaborative groups have been established to refine procedural guidelines, promote clinical research, and explore new indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca G Campana
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology (DISCOG), University of Padua, Italy; Surgical Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy.
| | - Ibrahim Edhemovic
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Anna M Perrone
- Oncologic Gynecology Unit, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Scarpa
- Surgical Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Laura Campanacci
- 3rd Orthopaedic and Traumatologic Clinic Prevalently Oncologic, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sara Valpione
- Christie NHS Foundation Trust, CRUK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M20 4GJ, UK
| | - Damijan Miklavčič
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Simone Mocellin
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology (DISCOG), University of Padua, Italy; Surgical Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Sieni
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padua, Italy
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Rezaee Z, Yadollahpour A, Bayati V. Single Intense Microsecond Electric Pulse Induces Radiosensitization to Ionizing Radiation: Effects of Time Intervals Between Electric Pulse and Ionizing Irradiation. Front Oncol 2018; 8:418. [PMID: 30319980 PMCID: PMC6171481 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective: Recent studies have shown the potential of electroporation (EP) as a physical radiosensitizer for ionizing radiation (IR). The amount of sensitizing effect depends on some factors the most important of them is the time interval between the EP and IR. This experimental in vitro study aims to investigate the radiosensitizing effect of EP exposure prior to IR and also evaluate the effects of EP-IR time intervals on the amount of radiosensitizing effects. Methods: Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines were cultured in vitro. The cells were divided into 10 groups including one untreated or control group, IR, and EP treatment alone groups, and seven combined EP-IR groups with 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70 min intervals. The dose enhancement factors (DEFs) for 6 MV X-rays IR were comparatively investigated between the groups using MTT assay. Results: The EP significantly induced radiosensitizing effect and its amount depends on the time intervals. The viability rate of the cells in the combined EP-IR treatment groups for intervals of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 min was significantly lower than the IR alone group. The highest DEF (1.18) was observed 10 min time interval between EP and IR. Conclusion: The radiosensitizing effects of EP persist long enough, 10–50 min, which allows safe application of EP as a radiosensitizer before IR in clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohre Rezaee
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ali Yadollahpour
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Vahid Bayati
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Yadollahpour A, Rezaee Z, Bayati V, Tahmasebi Birgani MJ, Negad Dehbashi F. Radiotherapy Enhancement with Electroporation in Human Intestinal Colon Cancer HT-29 Cells. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2018; 19:1259-1262. [PMID: 29801410 PMCID: PMC6031833 DOI: 10.22034/apjcp.2018.19.5.1259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The efficiency of radiotherapy for tumors can be enhanced with different radiosensitizers. Previous studies have shown that electroporation (EP) can sensitize some cancer cell lines to ionizing radiation (IR). HT-29 is a radiation resistant colorectal cancer cell line, representative of a cancer type which is the second cause of cancer mortalities in developed countries. The present study aimed to evaluate radiosensitizing effects of EP on HT-29 cells in vitro exposed to 6 MV X-ray photon beams. Methods: HT-29 cells were exposed to a 6 MV X-ray photon beam as the control or to a combination of electroporation and irradiation. The response of cells was evaluated by colony formation assay and survival curves. Results: The survival fraction of the HT-29 cells was significantly decreased by electroporation prior to radiotherapy. A single electric pulse increased colorectal HT-29 cancer cell sensitivity to megavoltage radiation by a factor of 1.36. Conclusion: Our findings showed that EP before radiotherapy can significantly enhance tumor cell sensitivity. This combined treatment modality should be assessed for its applicability in clinic settings for employment against radioresistant cancers. However, to facilitate achieving this goal, many different tumors with a broad range of radiosensitivities should be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Yadollahpour
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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Kunte C, Letulé V, Gehl J, Dahlstroem K, Curatolo P, Rotunno R, Muir T, Occhini A, Bertino G, Powell B, Saxinger W, Lechner G, Liew SH, Pritchard-Jones R, Rutkowski P, Zdzienicki M, Mowatt D, Sykes A, Orlando A, Mitsala G, Rossi C, Campana L, Brizio M, de Terlizzi F, Quaglino P, Odili J. Electrochemotherapy in the treatment of metastatic malignant melanoma: a prospective cohort study by InspECT. Br J Dermatol 2017; 176:1475-1485. [DOI: 10.1111/bjd.15340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Kunte
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology; Ludwig-Maximilian University; Munich Germany
| | - V. Letulé
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology; Ludwig-Maximilian University; Munich Germany
| | - J. Gehl
- Center for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer; Department of Oncology; Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev; Herlev Denmark
| | - K. Dahlstroem
- Department of Plastic Surgery; Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev; Denmark
| | - P. Curatolo
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery; Dermatologic Clinic; University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’; Rome Italy
| | - R. Rotunno
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery; Dermatologic Clinic; University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’; Rome Italy
| | - T. Muir
- Department of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery; James Cook University Hospital; Middlesbrough U.K
| | - A. Occhini
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery; University of Pavia; IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation; Pavia Italy
| | - G. Bertino
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery; University of Pavia; IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation; Pavia Italy
| | - B. Powell
- Department of Plastic Surgery; St George's Hospital; London U.K
| | - W. Saxinger
- Department of Dermatology; Klinikum Wels-Grieskirchen; Wels Austria
| | - G. Lechner
- Department of Dermatology; Klinikum Wels-Grieskirchen; Wels Austria
| | - S.-H. Liew
- Department of Plastic Surgery; Whiston Hospital; Prescot Merseyside U.K
| | | | - P. Rutkowski
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma; Maria Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Center and Institute of Oncology; Warsaw Poland
| | - M. Zdzienicki
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma; Maria Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Center and Institute of Oncology; Warsaw Poland
| | | | - A.J. Sykes
- Department of Clinical Oncology; Christie Hospital; NHS Foundation Trust; Manchester U.K
| | - A. Orlando
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery; Southmead Hospital; North Bristol NHS Trust; Bristol U.K
| | - G. Mitsala
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery; Southmead Hospital; North Bristol NHS Trust; Bristol U.K
| | - C.R. Rossi
- Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS; Padova Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology; University of Padova; Padova Italy
| | - L. Campana
- Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS; Padova Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology; University of Padova; Padova Italy
| | - M. Brizio
- Department of Medical Sciences; Dermatologic Clinic; University of Torino; Torino Italy
| | - F. de Terlizzi
- Scientific and Medical Department; IGEA S.p.A.; Carpi Italy
| | - P. Quaglino
- Department of Medical Sciences; Dermatologic Clinic; University of Torino; Torino Italy
| | - J. Odili
- Department of Plastic Surgery; St George's Hospital; London U.K
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Savarin M, Kamensek U, Cemazar M, Heller R, Sersa G. Electrotransfer of plasmid DNA radiosensitizes B16F10 tumors through activation of immune response. Radiol Oncol 2017; 51:30-39. [PMID: 28265230 PMCID: PMC5330176 DOI: 10.1515/raon-2017-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Tumor irradiation combined with adjuvant treatments, either vascular targeted or immunomodulatory, is under intense investigation. Gene electrotransfer of therapeutic genes is one of these approaches. The aim of this study was to determine, whether gene electrotransfer of plasmid encoding shRNA for silencing endoglin, with vascular targeted effectiveness, can radiosensitize melanoma B16F10 tumors. Materials and methods The murine melanoma B16F10 tumors, growing on the back of C57Bl/6 mice, were treated by triple gene electrotransfer and irradiation. The antitumor effect was evaluated by determination of tumor growth delay and proportion of tumor free mice. Furthermore, histological analysis of tumors (necrosis, apoptosis, proliferation, vascularization, presence of hypoxia and infiltration of immune cells,) was used to evaluate the therapeutic mechanisms. Results Gene electrotransfer of plasmid silencing endoglin predominantly indicated vascular targeted effects of the therapy, since significant tumor growth delay and 44% of tumor free mice were obtained. In addition, irradiation had minor effects on radioresistant melanoma, with 11% of mice tumor free. The combined treatment resulted in excellent effectiveness with 88% of mice tumor free, with more than half resistant to secondary tumor challenge, which was observed also with the plasmid devoid of the therapeutic gene. Histological analysis of tumors in the combined treatment group, demonstrated similar mode of action of the gene electrotransfer of plasmid encoding shRNA for silencing endoglin and devoid of it, both through the induction of an immune response. Conclusions The results of this study indicate that irradiation can in radioresistant melanoma tumors, by release of tumor associated antigens, serve as activator of the immune response, besides directly affecting tumor cells and vasculature. The primed antitumor immune response can be further boosted by gene electrotransfer of plasmid, regardless of presence of the therapeutic gene, which was confirmed by the high radiosensitization, resulting in prolonged tumor growth delay and 89% of tumor free mice that were up to 63% resistant to secondary challenge of tumor. In addition, gene electrotransfer of therapeutic plasmid for silencing endoglin has also a direct effect on tumor vasculature and tumors cells; however in combination with radiotherapy this effect was masked by pronounced immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Savarin
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Urska Kamensek
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, Izola, Slovenia
| | - Richard Heller
- Frank Reidy Research Center for Bioelectrics, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, USA
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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14
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Tumor radiosensitization by gene therapy against endoglin. Cancer Gene Ther 2016; 23:214-20. [PMID: 27199221 DOI: 10.1038/cgt.2016.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gene electrotransfer of plasmid encoding shRNA against endoglin exerts antitumor efficacy, predominantly by vascular targeted effect. As vascular targeting therapies can promote radiosensitization, the aim of this study was to explore this gene therapy approach with single and split dose of irradiation in an endoglin non-expressing TS/A mammary adenocarcinoma tumor model to specifically study the vascular effects. Intratumoral gene electrotransfer of plasmids encoding shRNA against endoglin, under the control of a constitutive or tissue-specific promoter for endothelial cells, combined with a single or three split doses of irradiations was evaluated for the antitumor efficacy and histologically. Both plasmids proved to be equally effective in tumor radiosensitization with 40-47% of tumor cures. The combined treatment induced a significant decrease in the number of blood vessels and proliferating cells, and an increase in levels of necrosis, apoptosis and hypoxia; therefore, the antitumor efficacy was ascribed to the interaction of vascular targeted effect of gene therapy with irradiation. Endoglin silencing by the shRNA technology, combined with electrotransfer and the use of a tissue-specific promoter for endothelial cells, proved to be a feasible and effective therapeutic approach that can be used in combined treatment with tumor irradiation.
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Schedule-dependent interaction between vinblastine and irradiation in experimental sarcoma. Strahlenther Onkol 2014; 190:661-6. [PMID: 24615190 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-014-0645-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 02/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Prolonged vinblastine (VLB) infusion and irradiation (IR) lead to favourable results in certain tumours types; however the underlying biological mechanisms of interaction are not well known. The aim of our study was to evaluate the dose- and time-dependent interactions between split-dose VLB treatment (mimicking prolonged infusion) and IR of sarcoma SA-1 tumours in A/J mice. METHODS Antitumor effectiveness of different VLB-IR schedules was determined by a tumour growth delay assay, the VLB amount in the tumours by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and DNA cell cycle analysis. RESULTS A positive antitumor effect was obtained when tumours were irradiated immediately after the first (0 h) or second (4 h) injection of VLB treatment, despite the lower amount of VLB in the tumours as well as decreased number of cells in the IR-sensitive G2M phase at these times points as opposed to the second half of VLB split-dose scheduling. CONCLUSION Preferential binding of VLB to microtubules (with consequent lack of available VLB to bind to DNA where it acts as a radioprotector) and the absence of radiobiologically relevant hypoxia are presumably leading to the observed therapeutic benefit of applying IR at the beginning of the prolonged VLB infusion.
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Miklavčič D, Mali B, Kos B, Heller R, Serša G. Electrochemotherapy: from the drawing board into medical practice. Biomed Eng Online 2014; 13:29. [PMID: 24621079 PMCID: PMC3995705 DOI: 10.1186/1475-925x-13-29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 209] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrochemotherapy is a local treatment of cancer employing electric pulses to improve transmembrane transfer of cytotoxic drugs. In this paper we discuss electrochemotherapy from the perspective of biomedical engineering and review the steps needed to move such a treatment from initial prototypes into clinical practice. In the paper also basic theory of electrochemotherapy and preclinical studies in vitro and in vivo are briefly reviewed. Following this we present a short review of recent clinical publications and discuss implementation of electrochemotherapy into standard of care for treatment of skin tumors, and use of electrochemotherapy for other targets such as head and neck cancer, deep-seated tumors in the liver and intestinal tract, and brain metastases. Electrodes used in these specific cases are presented with their typical voltage amplitudes used in electrochemotherapy. Finally, key points on what should be investigated in the future are presented and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damijan Miklavčič
- Faculty of electrical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Trzaska 25, Ljubljana SI-1000, Slovenia.
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Sedlar A, Kranjc S, Dolinsek T, Cemazar M, Coer A, Sersa G. Radiosensitizing effect of intratumoral interleukin-12 gene electrotransfer in murine sarcoma. BMC Cancer 2013; 13:38. [PMID: 23360213 PMCID: PMC3562515 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-13-38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Interleukin-12 (IL-12) based radiosensitization is an effective way of tumor treatment. Local cytokine production, without systemic shedding, might provide clinical benefit in radiation treatment of sarcomas. Therefore, the aim was to stimulate intratumoral IL-12 production by gene electrotransfer of plasmid coding for mouse IL-12 (mIL-12) into the tumors, in order to explore its radiosensitizing effect after single or multiple intratumoral gene electrotransfer. Methods Solid SA-1 fibrosarcoma tumors, on the back of A/J mice, were treated intratumorally by mIL-12 gene electrotransfer and 24 h later irradiated with a single dose. Treatment effectiveness was measured by tumor growth delay and local tumor control assay (TCD50 assay). With respect to therapeutic index, skin reaction in the radiation field was scored. The tumor and serum concentrations of cytokines mIL-12 and mouse interferon γ (mIFNγ) were measured. Besides single, also multiple intratumoral mIL-12 gene electrotransfer before and after tumor irradiation was evaluated. Results Single intratumoral mIL-12 gene electrotransfer resulted in increased intratumoral but not serum mIL-12 and mIFNγ concentrations, and had good antitumor (7.1% tumor cures) and radiosensitizing effect (21.4% tumor cures). Combined treatment resulted in the radiation dose-modifying factor of 2.16. Multiple mIL-12 gene electrotransfer had an even more pronounced antitumor (50% tumor cures) and radiosensitizing (86.7% tumor cures) effect. Conclusions Single or multiple intratumoral mIL-12 gene electrotransfer resulted in increased intratumoral mIL-12 and mIFNγ cytokine level, and may provide an efficient treatment modality for soft tissue sarcoma as single or adjuvant therapy to tumor irradiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ales Sedlar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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The activity and safety of electrochemotherapy in persistent chest wall recurrence from breast cancer after mastectomy: a phase-II study. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2012; 134:1169-78. [PMID: 22821399 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-012-2095-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2012] [Accepted: 05/08/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemotherapy (ECT) represents an attractive locoregional therapy for unresectable chest wall recurrence (CWR) from breast cancer. Thirty-five patients with cutaneous CWR after mastectomy who experienced progression despite re-irradiation and extensive systemic treatments were administered bleomycin-based ECT. Local response, toxicity, and superficial control were evaluated. Out of 516 metastases (median 15/patient, range 1-50), response was assessed on 196 target lesions (median size 20 mm, range 10-220). Patients received a median of 2 ECT courses (range 1-3). Two-month objective response was as follows: 54.3 % complete (19/35 patients), 37.1 % partial (13/35), and 8.6 % no change (3/35). Twenty-three patients (65.7 %) developed new lesions (NL) after a median time of 6.6 months (range 2.3-29.5), therefore 1, 2, or 3 ECT cycles were required in 14, 15, and 6 patients, respectively. Median follow-up was 32 months (range 6-53) and the 3-year local control rate was 81 %. Related morbidity was mild, increased after retreatments and consisted primarily of pain (reported as "moderate"/"severe" by 6, 13, and 17 % of patients 1 month after the first, second, and third application, respectively) and dermatological toxicity (acute G3 skin ulceration in 14, 20, and 33 % of patients, respectively). Less than 10 metastases (P < 0.001), the narrower area of tumor spread on the chest wall (P = 0.022), complete response achievement (P = 0.019), and post-ECT endocrine instead of chemotherapy (P = 0.025) were associated to NL-free survival. Only fewer skin metastases, hazard ratio (HR) 0.122, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.037-0.397, P < 0.001, and contained superficial spread, HR 0.234, 95 % CI 0.067-0.818, P = 0.023, were predictors for longer NL-free survival. ECT showed a satisfactory activity in refractory breast cancer CWR, providing sustained local control. Patients with fewer and less scattered skin metastases are less likely to develop NL. Partial responders and NL can be handled with additional ECT albeit increasing local pain and skin toxicity.
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The antitumor efficiency of combined electrochemotherapy and single dose irradiation on a breast cancer tumor model. Radiol Oncol 2012; 46:226-32. [PMID: 23077461 PMCID: PMC3472947 DOI: 10.2478/v10019-012-0035-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Accepted: 05/05/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to investigate the antitumor effectiveness of electrochemotherapy with cisplatin combined with suboptimal radiotherapy doses. Tumor radiosensitization was evaluated on large invasive ductal carcinoma tumors in Balb/C mice. Materials and methods Tumors of an average volume of 630 mm3 were treated with cisplatin, electric pulses, radiotherapy, electrochemotherapy, alone as well as in appropriate combinations. Tumors were irradiated with Cobalt-60 γ-rays at doses 3 Gy and 5 Gy in combination with electrochemotherapy using cisplatin. Controls included each of the treatments alone as well as the combination of the radiotherapy with electric pulses alone or with cisplatin alone. Antitumor effectiveness was evaluated by tumor growth delay, tumor-doubling time, inhibition ratio and the objective response rates. Results As anticipated, electrochemotherapy was more effective than the treatment with cisplatin alone or the application of the electric pulses alone. When treatments were combined with tumor irradiation at either 3 or 5 Gy, the combination with electrochemotherapy was more effective: at 5 Gy, 2 animals out of 8 were in complete remission 100 days later. In general the higher 5 Gy dose of γ-radiation was more effective than the lower one of 3 Gy. Conclusions The results of our study demonstrate that irradiation doses, 3 Gy or 5 Gy, increase the antitumor effectiveness of electrochemotherapy with cisplatin on invasive ductal carcinoma tumors. Good antitumor results were achieved in experimental tumors with a size comparable to clinical lesions, demonstrating that this three-modality combined treatment is useful for the treatment of large lesions even at sub-optimal radiotherapy doses.
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Campana LG, Valpione S, Mocellin S, Sundararajan R, Granziera E, Sartore L, Chiarion-Sileni V, Rossi CR. Electrochemotherapy for disseminated superficial metastases from malignant melanoma. Br J Surg 2012; 99:821-30. [PMID: 22508342 DOI: 10.1002/bjs.8749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the study was to determine predictive factors for effectiveness, toxicity and local disease control in patients with malignant melanoma treated with bleomycin-based electrochemotherapy (ECT). METHODS Electrochemotherapy was offered to patients with superficially disseminated melanoma metastases unsuitable for resection and unresponsive to chemotherapy. RESULTS Eighty-five patients were treated with up to six ECT cycles with minimal, mainly dermatological, toxicity. One month after the first ECT, an objective response was observed in 80 patients (94 per cent). After retreatment because of a partial response in 39 patients, a complete response was achieved in 19 patients. Among the 41 (48 per cent) complete responders at first ECT, 19 patients received a second cycle because of new lesions after a median of 6 (range 2-14) months. After a median follow-up of 26 months, six patients experienced local recurrence with a 2-year local progression-free survival rate of 87 per cent. In multivariable analysis, significant predictive factors for response were tumour size (odds ratio (OR) 0·23, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0·19 to 0·86; P = 0·003) and number of lesions (OR 0·38, 0·28 to 0·88; P = 0·002). An increasing number of electrode applications (hazard ratio (HR) 2·18, 95 per cent c.i. 1·22 to 3·44; P = 0·041) and ECT cycles (HR 0·46, 0·22 to 0·95; P = 0·005) were predictors of local control. There were no predictors of toxicity. Melanoma thickness and lower limb location of metastases were prognostic for survival. CONCLUSION The most suitable candidates for ECT were patients with few and small metastases on the lower limb treated with multiple electrode applications and ECT cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- L G Campana
- Sarcoma and Melanoma Unit, Veneto Region Oncology Research Institute (IOV-IRCCS), Department of Oncological and Surgical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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Jarm T, Cemazar M, Miklavcic D, Sersa G. Antivascular effects of electrochemotherapy: implications in treatment of bleeding metastases. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2011; 10:729-46. [PMID: 20470005 DOI: 10.1586/era.10.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Solid tumors of various etiologies can be treated efficiently by electrochemotherapy (ECT), a combined use of electroporation (EP) and chemotherapeutic drugs, such as bleomycin and cisplatin. EP alone and ECT in particular, induce a profound reduction in tumor blood flow, which contributes to the antitumor effect. After EP and ECT, the time course of blood flow changes and follows the same two-phase pattern. The first rapid and short-lived vasoconstriction phase is followed by the second much longer-lived phase resulting from disrupted cytoskeletal structures and a compromised barrier function of the microvascular endothelium. In the case of ECT, however, tumor vascular endothelial cells are also affected by the chemotherapeutic drug, which leads to irrecoverable damage to tumor vessels and to a further decrease in tumor blood flow within hours after application of ECT. Tumor cells surviving the direct effects of ECT are consequently exposed to lack of oxygen and nutrients and are pushed into the secondary cascade of induced cell death. Clinically, the antitumor effectiveness of ECT has been proven extensively in the treatment of melanoma metastases, with 70-80% complete responses. The antivascular effects of ECT were also exploited for palliative treatment of bleeding melanoma metastases, with immediate cessation of bleeding and very good antitumor effectiveness. The antivascular effect of ECT is of utmost importance for translation of ECT into the treatment of deep-seated tumors, especially in well vascularized organs, such as the liver, where it prevents bleeding of the treated area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomaz Jarm
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Trzaska 25, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Ciric E, Sersa G. Radiotherapy in combination with vascular-targeted therapies. Radiol Oncol 2010; 44:67-78. [PMID: 22933894 PMCID: PMC3423684 DOI: 10.2478/v10019-010-0025-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2009] [Accepted: 04/20/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the critical role of tumor vasculature in tumor development, considerable efforts have been spent on developing therapeutic strategies targeting the tumor vascular network. A variety of agents have been developed, with two general approaches being pursued. Antiangiogenic agents (AAs) aim to interfere with the process of angiogenesis, preventing new tumor blood vessel formation. Vascular-disrupting agents (VDAs) target existing tumor vessels causing tumor ischemia and necrosis. Despite their great therapeutic potential, it has become clear that their greatest clinical utility may lie in combination with conventional anticancer therapies. Radiotherapy is a widely used treatment modality for cancer with its distinct therapeutic challenges. Thus, combining the two approaches seems reasonable. CONCLUSIONS Strong biological rationale exist for combining vascular-targeted therapies with radiation. AAs and VDAs were shown to alter the tumor microenvironment in such a way as to enhance responses to radiation. The results of preclinical and early clinical studies have confirmed the therapeutic potential of this new treatment strategy in the clinical setting. However, concerns about increased normal tissue toxicity, have been raised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Ciric
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Tevz G, Kranjc S, Cemazar M, Kamensek U, Coer A, Krzan M, Vidic S, Pavlin D, Sersa G. Controlled systemic release of interleukin-12 after gene electrotransfer to muscle for cancer gene therapy alone or in combination with ionizing radiation in murine sarcomas. J Gene Med 2010; 11:1125-37. [PMID: 19777440 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study aimed to evaluate the antitumor effectiveness of systemic interleukin (IL)-12 gene therapy in murine sarcoma models, and to evaluate its interaction with the irradiation of tumors and metastases. To avoid toxic side-effects of IL-12 gene therapy, the objective was to achieve the controlled release of IL-12 after intramuscular gene electrotransfer. METHODS Gene electrotransfer of the plasmid pORF-mIL12 was performed into the tibialis cranialis in A/J and C57BL/6 mice. Systemic release of the IL-12 was monitored in the serum of mice after carrying out two sets of intramuscular IL-12 gene electrotransfer of two different doses of plasmid DNA. The antitumor effectiveness of IL-12 gene electrotransfer alone or in combination with local tumor or lung irradiation with X-rays, was evaluated on subcutaneous SA-1 and LPB tumors, as well as on lung metastases. RESULTS A synergistic antitumor effect of intramuscular gene electrotransfer combined with local tumor irradiation was observed as a result of the systemic distribution of IL-12. The gene electrotransfer resulted in up to 28% of complete responses of tumors. In combination with local tumor irradiation, the curability was increased by up to 100%. The same effect was observed for lung metastases, where a potentiating factor of 1.3-fold was determined. The amount of circulating IL-12 was controlled by the number of repeats of gene electrotransfer and by the amount of the injected plasmid. CONCLUSIONS The present study demonstrates the feasibility of treatment by IL-12 gene electrotransfer combined with local tumor or lung metastases irradiation on sarcoma tumors for translation into the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Tevz
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Kranjc S, Tevz G, Kamensek U, Vidic S, Cemazar M, Sersa G. Radiosensitizing Effect of Electrochemotherapy in a Fractionated Radiation Regimen in Radiosensitive Murine Sarcoma and Radioresistant Adenocarcinoma Tumor Model. Radiat Res 2009; 172:677-85. [DOI: 10.1667/rr1873.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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25
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Campana LG, Mocellin S, Basso M, Puccetti O, De Salvo GL, Chiarion-Sileni V, Vecchiato A, Corti L, Rossi CR, Nitti D. Bleomycin-Based Electrochemotherapy: Clinical Outcome from a Single Institution’s Experience with 52 Patients. Ann Surg Oncol 2009; 16:191-9. [DOI: 10.1245/s10434-008-0204-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2008] [Revised: 09/23/2008] [Accepted: 09/23/2008] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Pavlin M, Miklavcic D. Theoretical and experimental analysis of conductivity, ion diffusion and molecular transport during cell electroporation--relation between short-lived and long-lived pores. Bioelectrochemistry 2008; 74:38-46. [PMID: 18499534 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2008.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2007] [Revised: 03/21/2008] [Accepted: 04/07/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Electroporation is usually described as a formation of transient pores in the cell membrane in the presence of a strong electric field, which enables transport of molecules and ions across the cell membrane. Several experimental studies of electroporation showed a complex dependence of the transport on pulse parameters. In only few studies, however, the actual transport across the membrane was quantified. Current theoretical studies can describe pore formation in artificial lipid membranes but still cannot explain mechanisms of formation and properties of long-lived pores which are formed during cell electroporation. The focus of our study is to connect theoretical description of pore formation during the electric pulses with experimental observation of increased transport after the pulses. By analyzing transient increase in conductivity during the pulses in parallel with ion efflux after the pulses the relation between short-lived and long-lived pores was investigated. We present a simple model that incorporates an increase in the fraction of long-lived pores with higher electric field due to larger area of the cell membrane exposed to above-critical voltage and due to higher energy which is available for pore formation. We also show that each consecutive pulse increases the probability for the formation of long-lived pores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojca Pavlin
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Trzaska 25, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Sersa G, Miklavcic D, Cemazar M, Rudolf Z, Pucihar G, Snoj M. Electrochemotherapy in treatment of tumours. Eur J Surg Oncol 2007; 34:232-40. [PMID: 17614247 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2007.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 277] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2007] [Accepted: 05/29/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Electrochemotherapy is a local drug delivery approach aimed at treatment with palliative intent of cutaneous and subcutaneous tumour nodules of different histologies. Electrochemotherapy, via cell membrane permeabilising electric pulses, potentiates the cytotoxicity of non-permeant or poorly permeant anticancer drugs with high intrinsic cytotoxicity, such as bleomycin or cisplatin, at the site of electric pulse application. METHODS An overview of preclinical and clinical studies is presented, and the treatment procedure is further critically evaluated. RESULTS In clinical studies electrochemotherapy has proved to be a highly efficient and safe approach for treating cutaneous and subcutaneous tumour nodules. The treatment response for various tumours (predominantly melanoma) was approximately 75% complete and 10% partial response of the treated nodules. CONCLUSIONS Electrochemotherapy is a new, clinically acknowledged method for the treatment of cutaneous and subcutaneous tumours. Its advantages are high effectiveness on tumours with different histologies, simple application, minimal side effects and the possibility of effective repetitive treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Sersa
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Pavlin M, Leben V, Miklavcic D. Electroporation in dense cell suspension--theoretical and experimental analysis of ion diffusion and cell permeabilization. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2006; 1770:12-23. [PMID: 16935427 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2006.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2006] [Revised: 06/14/2006] [Accepted: 06/28/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Electroporation is a process where increased permeability of cells exposed to an electric field is observed. It is used in many biomedical applications including electrogene transfection and electrochemotherapy. Although the increased permeability of the membrane is believed to be the result of pores due to an induced transmembrane voltage U(m), the exact molecular mechanisms are not fully explained. In this study we analyze transient conductivity changes during the electric pulses and increased membrane permeability for ions and molecules after the pulses in order to determine which parameters affect stabilization of pores, and to analyze the relation between transient pores and long-lived transport pores. By quantifying ion diffusion, fraction of transport pores f(per) was obtained. A simple model, which assumes a quadratic dependence of f(per) on E in the area where U(m)>U(c) very accurately describes experimental values, suggesting that f(per) increases with higher electric field due to larger permeabilized area and due to higher energy available for pore formation. The fraction of transport pores increases also with the number of pulses N, which suggest that each pulse contributes to formation of more and/or larger stable transport pores, whereas the number of transient pores does not depend on N.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojca Pavlin
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Trzaska 25, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Gaynor PT, Bodger PS. Physical modelling of electroporation in close cell-to-cell proximity environments. Phys Med Biol 2006; 51:3175-88. [PMID: 16757870 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/51/12/012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Many applications of electroporation, especially those utilizing electrofusion and in-vivo electroporation, involve cell environments that include close cell-to-cell proximity and a wide range of target cell size. It is important to understand how this kind of environment may alter optimum electroporation electrical parameters for any given application. A physical, electrically equivalent model of biological cell electroporation, based on aqueous solution filled thin latex rubber membrane spheroids, was used to investigate membrane permeabilization behaviour where there is both close cell-to-cell proximity and different cell radii. Cell model arrangements were pulsed using either a 50 micros or 10 micros, 1/e decay time constant dc capacitive discharge electric field, with peak amplitudes of 160-500 kV m(-1). Results indicate that, compared to cells in isolation, electroporation initiates at substantially decreased applied electric field magnitudes in regions of close cell-to-cell proximity where the external media conductivity is lower than the cell interior conductivity, and the membrane is maximally polarized. Additionally, the use of shorter time constant, higher peak magnitude pulse parameters should reduce the relative difference in threshold membrane permeabilization in regions of close cell-to-cell proximity for cells of different size so that the degree of electroporation is more uniform for variable size and shape target cell populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- P T Gaynor
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, New Zealand.
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Kranjc S, Cemazar M, Grosel A, Sentjurc M, Sersa G. Radiosensitising effect of electrochemotherapy with bleomycin in LPB sarcoma cells and tumors in mice. BMC Cancer 2005; 5:115. [PMID: 16168056 PMCID: PMC1261257 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-5-115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2005] [Accepted: 09/16/2005] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bleomycin is poorly permeant but potent cytotoxic and radiosensitizing drug. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether a physical drug delivery system – electroporation can increase radiosensitising effect of bleomycin in vitro and in vivo. Methods LPB sarcoma cells and tumors were treated either with bleomycin, electroporation or ionizing radiation, and combination of these treatments. In vitro, response to different treatments was determined by colony forming assay, while in vivo, treatment effectiveness was determined by local tumor control (TCD50). Time dependence of partial oxygen pressure in LPB tumors after application of electric pulses was measured by electron paramagnetic oxyimetry. Results Electroporation of cells in vitro increased radiosensitising effect of bleomycin for 1.5 times, in vivo radiation response of tumors was enhanced by 1.9 fold compared to response of tumors that were irradiated only. Neither treatment of tumors with bleomycin nor application of electric pulses only, affected radiation response of tumors. Application of electric pulses to the tumors induced profound but transient reduction of tumor oxygenation. Although tumor oxygenation after electroporation partially restored at the time of irradiation, it was still reduced at the level of radiobiologically relevant hypoxia. Conclusion Our study shows that application of electric pulses to cells and tumors increases radiosensitising effect of bleomycin. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that the radiobiologically relevant hypoxia induced by electroporation of tumors did not counteract the pronounced radiosensitising effect of electrochemotherapy with bleomycin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Kranjc
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alenka Grosel
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Gregor Sersa
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Maxim PG, Carson JJL, Ning S, Knox SJ, Boyer AL, Hsu CP, Benaron DA, Walleczek J. Enhanced Effectiveness of Radiochemotherapy with Tirapazamine by Local Application of Electric Pulses to Tumors. Radiat Res 2004; 162:185-93. [PMID: 15387146 DOI: 10.1667/rr3200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Tumor hypoxia is associated with resistance to radiotherapy and anticancer chemotherapy. However, it can be exploited to therapeutic advantage by concomitantly using hypoxic cytotoxins, such as tirapazamine (TPZ). Tumor electroporation offers the means to further increase tumor hypoxia by temporarily reducing tumor blood flow and therefore increase the cytotoxicity of TPZ. The primary objective of this work was to determine whether electric pulses combined with TPZ and radiotherapy (electroradiochemotherapy) was more efficacious than radiochemotherapy (TPZ + radiation). In these studies using the SCCVII tumor model in C3H mice, electroradiochemotherapy produced up to sixfold more tumor growth delay (TGD) than TPZ + radiation. In these studies, (1) large tumors (280 +/- 15 mm3) responded better to electroradiochemotherapy than small tumors (110 +/- 10 mm3), (2) TGD correlated linearly with tumor volume at the time of electroradiochemotherapy, (3) electric pulses induced a rapid but reversible reduction in O2 saturation, and (4) the electric field was highest near the periphery of the tumor in a 3D computer model. The findings suggested that electroradiochemotherapy gained its therapeutic advantage over TPZ + radiation by enhancing the cytotoxic action of TPZ through reduced tumor oxygenation. The greater antitumor effect achieved in large tumors may be related to tumor morphology and the electric-field distribution. These results suggest that electro-pulsation of large solid tumors may be of benefit to patients treated with radiation in combination with agents that kill hypoxic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter G Maxim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
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Persson BRR, Bauréus Koch C, Grafstrom G, Engstrom PE, Salford LG. A model for evaluating therapeutic response of combined cancer treatment modalities: applied to treatment of subcutaneously implanted brain tumors (N32 and N29) in Fischer rats with pulsed electric fields (PEF) and 60Co-gamma radiation (RT). Technol Cancer Res Treat 2004; 2:459-70. [PMID: 14529312 DOI: 10.1177/153303460300200512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to develop a mathematical model for evaluating therapeutic response of combined treatment modalities. The study was performed in rats of the Fischer-344 strain with rat glioma N32 or N29 tumors implanted subcutaneously on the thigh of the hind leg. Pulsed electric fields, PEF, with 16 exponentially decaying pulses with a maximum electric field strength of 140 V/mm and t(1/e)= 1 ms were first applied to the tumors. Then within 5 min radiation therapy with (60)Co-gamma radiation, RT, was given in daily fractions of 5 Gy. The animals were arranged into one group of controls and 3 groups of different kind of treatments: PEF only, RT only or combination of PEF + RT. At about 4 weeks after inoculation, the tumors were given the treatment sessions during one week. In 2 experimental series with totally 52 rats with N32 tumors, of which 16 were controls, were given 4 sessions of PEF treatments and RT (totally 20 Gy). In a special experimental series with totally 56 rats with N32 tumors, of which 10 were controls, the different groups were given 1, 2, 3 or 4 treatment sessions respectively. Another strain of glioma tumor, N29 with 62 tumors of which 14 were controls was studied in 2 series given 4PEF + 4RT and 2PEF + 4RT respectively. Fitting the data obtained from consecutive measurements of tumor volume (TV) of each individual tumor to an exponential model TV = TV(0). exp[TGR.t] estimated the tumor growth rate (TGR % per day) after the first day of treatment (t = 0). The TGR of N32 tumors treated with the combination of 4PEF + 4RT are significantly decreased compared to the controls (p < 0.0001), compared to RT alone (p < 0.0001) and compared to PEF alone (p < 0.001). The combined treatment of N32 gives significant effect on the tumor growth rate after 2, 3 and 4 treatment session while RT alone seems to be most efficient after one treatment of 5 Gy and PEF alone is most efficient after 2 treatments at 2 consecutive days. The TGR of N29 tumors treated with the combination of 4PEF + 4RT are significantly decreased compared to the controls (p < 0.05) but the combination of 2PEF + 4RT was more effective (p < 0.005). The specific therapeutic effect STE is defined as the difference between the average tumor growth rates of controls and exposed tumors divided by the average tumor growth rate of the controls. With 4PEF treatments alone the average STE value was 0.32 for N32 tumors and 0 for N29; for 4RT alone the STE values were 0.29 and 0.42 respectively, and for combined treatments 4PEF + 4RT 0.67 and 0.17 respectively. For the N29 tumors treated with 2PEF + 4RT the STE value was 0.53. The therapeutic enhancement ratio, TER, value increase with the number of treatment sessions and the TER of the combined treatments is above 1 in two of the N32 series, which indicates a synergistic effect of 4PEF + 4RT. This work demonstrate the use of our model for analyzing the combination PEF + RT, but it can also be used for evaluation the therapeutic effects of combining RT with chemotherapy or immunogenetic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertil R R Persson
- Department of Radiation Physics, University of Lund, S-221 85 Lund, Sweden.
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Kotnik T, Pucihar G, Rebersek M, Miklavcic D, Mir LM. Role of pulse shape in cell membrane electropermeabilization. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2003; 1614:193-200. [PMID: 12896812 DOI: 10.1016/s0005-2736(03)00173-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The role of the amplitude, number, and duration of unipolar rectangular electric pulses in cell membrane electropermeabilization in vitro has been the subject of several studies. With respect to unipolar rectangular pulses, an improved efficiency has been reported for several modifications of the pulse shape: separate bipolar pulses, continuous bipolar waveforms, and sine-modulated pulses. In this paper, we present the results of a systematic study of the role of pulse shape in permeabilization, cell death, and molecular uptake. We have first compared the efficiency of 1-ms unipolar pulses with rise- and falltimes ranging from 2 to 100 micros, observing no statistically significant difference. We then compared the efficiency of triangular, sine, and rectangular bipolar pulses, and finally the efficiency of sine-modulated unipolar pulses with different percentages of modulation. We show that the results of these experiments can be explained on the basis of the time during which the pulse amplitude exceeds a certain critical value.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kotnik
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Britten RA. Modification of radiosensitivity following chemotherapy exposure: potential implications for combined-modality therapy. Cancer Treat Res 2002; 112:285-303. [PMID: 12481721 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4615-1173-1_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Britten
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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Pucihar G, Kotnik T, Kanduser M, Miklavcic D. The influence of medium conductivity on electropermeabilization and survival of cells in vitro. Bioelectrochemistry 2001; 54:107-15. [PMID: 11694390 DOI: 10.1016/s1567-5394(01)00117-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Electropermeabilization and cell death caused by the exposure to high voltage electric pulses depends on the parameters of pulses, as well as the composition of the extracellular medium. We studied the influence of extracellular conductivity on electropermeabilization and survival of cells in vitro. For this purpose, we used a physiological medium with a conductivity of 1.6 S/m and three artificial media with conductivities of 0.14, 0.005, and 0.001 S/m. Measurements of pH, osmolarity, and cell diameter were made to estimate possible side effects of the media on the cells. Our study shows that the percentage of surviving cells increases with the decreasing medium conductivity, while the percentage of electropermeabilized cells remains unaffected. Our results show that cell survival in experiments involving electropermeabilization can be improved by decreasing the medium conductivity. To provide an interpretation of experimental results, we have theoretically estimated the resting transmembrane voltage, the induced transmembrane voltage, the time constant of the voltage inducement, and heating of the cell suspension for each of the media used. These calculations imply that for accurate interpretation of experimental results, both the induced and the resting transmembrane voltage must be considered, taking into account the conductivity and the ionic composition of the extracellular medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Pucihar
- Laboratory of Biocybernetics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Trzaska 25, SI-1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Kotnik T, Mir LM, Flisar K, Puc M, Miklavcic D. Cell membrane electropermeabilization by symmetrical bipolar rectangular pulses. Part I. Increased efficiency of permeabilization. Bioelectrochemistry 2001; 54:83-90. [PMID: 11506978 DOI: 10.1016/s1567-5394(01)00114-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The paper presents a comparative study of electropermeabilization of cells in suspension by unipolar and symmetrical bipolar rectangular electric pulses. While the parameters of electropermeabilization by unipolar pulses have been investigated extensively both in cell suspensions and in tissues, studies using bipolar pulses have been rare, partly due to the lack of commercially available bipolar pulse generators with pulse parameters suitable for electropermeabilization. We have developed a high-frequency amplifier and coupled it to a function generator to deliver high-voltage pulses of programmable shapes. With symmetrical bipolar pulses, the pulse amplitude required for the permeabilization of 50% of the cells was found to be approximately 20% lower than with unipolar pulses, while no statistically significant difference was detected between the pulse amplitudes causing the death of 50% of the cells. Bipolar pulses also led to more than 20% increase in the uptake of lucifer yellow. We show that these results have a theoretical background, because bipolar pulses (i) counterbalance the asymmetry of the permeabilized areas at the poles of the cell which is introduced by the resting transmembrane voltage, and (ii) increase the odds of permeabilization of cells having a nonspherical shape or a nonhomogeneous membrane. If similar results are also obtained in tissues, bipolar pulse generators could in due course gain a wide, or even a predominant use in cell membrane electropermeabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kotnik
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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