1
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Wang W, Sessler CD, Wang X, Liu J. In Situ Synthesis and Assembly of Functional Materials and Devices in Living Systems. Acc Chem Res 2024. [PMID: 39007720 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
ConspectusIntegrating functional materials and devices with living systems enables novel methods for recording, manipulating, or augmenting organisms not accessible by traditional chemical, optical, or genetic approaches. (The term "device" refers to the fundamental components of complex electronic systems, such as transistors, capacitors, conductors, and electrodes.) Typically, these advanced materials and devices are synthesized, either through chemical or physical reactions, outside the biological systems (ex situ) before they are integrated. This is due in part to the more limited repertoire of biocompatible chemical transformations available for assembling functional materials in vivo. Given that most of the assembled bulk materials are impermeable to cell membranes and cannot go through the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the external synthesis poses challenges when trying to interface these materials and devices with cells precisely and in a timely manner and at the micro- and nanoscale─a crucial requirement for modulating cellular functions. In contrast to presynthesis in a separate location, in situ assembly, wherein small molecules or building blocks are directly assembled into functional materials within a biological system at the desired site of action, has offered a potential solution for spatiotemporal and genetic control of material synthesis and assembly.In this Account, we highlight recent advances in spatially and temporally targeted functional material synthesis and assembly in living cells, tissues and animals and provide perspective on how they may enable novel probing, modulation, or augmentation of fundamental biology. We discuss several strategies, starting from the traditional nontargeted methods to targeted assembly of functional materials and devices based on the endogenous markers of the biological system. We then focus on genetically targeted assembly of functional materials, which employs enzymatic catalysis centers expressed in living systems to assemble functional materials in specific molecular-defined cell types. We introduce the recent efforts of our group to modulate membrane capacitance and neuron excitability using in situ synthesized electrically functional polymers in a genetically targetable manner. These advances demonstrate the promise of in situ synthesis and assembly of functional materials and devices, including the optogenetic polymerization developed by our lab, to interface with cells in a cellular- or subcellular-specific manner by incorporating genetic and/or optical control over material assembly. Finally, we discuss remaining challenges, areas for improvement, potential applications to other biological systems, and novel methods for the in situ synthesis of functional materials that could be elevated by incorporating genetic or material design strategies. As researchers expand the toolkit of biocompatible in situ functional material synthetic techniques, we anticipate that these advancements could potentially offer valuable tools for exploring biological systems and developing therapeutic solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Wang
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02134, United States
| | - Chanan D Sessler
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Jia Liu
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02134, United States
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2
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Zhang X, Zhang B, Zhang Y, Ding Y, Zhang Z, Liu Q, Yang Z, Wang L, Gao J. Copper-Induced Supramolecular Peptide Assemblies for Multi-Pathway Cell Death and Tumor Inhibition. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024:e202406602. [PMID: 38837577 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202406602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Although self-assembly has emerged as an effective tool for fabricating biomaterials, achieving precise control over the morphologies and functionalities of the resultant assemblies remains an ongoing challenge. Inspired by the copper peptide naturally present in human plasma, in this study, we designed a synthetic precursor, FcGH. FcGH can self-assemble via two distinct pathways: spontaneous and Cu2+-induced. These two assembly pathways enabled the formation of assemblies with tunable morphologies by adjusting the amount of added Cu2+. We found that the nanoparticles formed by Cu2+-induced self-assembly exhibited a significantly higher cellular uptake efficiency than the wormlike fibers formed spontaneously. Moreover, this Cu2+-induced assembly process occurred spontaneously at a 1 : 1 molar ratio of Cu2+ to FcGH, avoiding the excessive use of Cu2+ and a tedious preparation procedure. By co-assembling with 10-hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT)-conjugated FcGH, Cu2+-induced supramolecular nanodrugs elicited multiple cell death modalities in cancer cells with elevated immunogenicity, enhancing the therapeutic effect compared to free HCPT. This study highlights Cu2+-induced self-assembly as an efficient tool for directing the assembly of nanodrugs and for synergistic tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai International Advanced Research Institute (SHENZHEN⋅FUTIAN), Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Buyue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai International Advanced Research Institute (SHENZHEN⋅FUTIAN), Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai International Advanced Research Institute (SHENZHEN⋅FUTIAN), Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yinghao Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai International Advanced Research Institute (SHENZHEN⋅FUTIAN), Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Zhenghao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai International Advanced Research Institute (SHENZHEN⋅FUTIAN), Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Qian Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Zhimou Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai International Advanced Research Institute (SHENZHEN⋅FUTIAN), Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
| | - Ling Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai International Advanced Research Institute (SHENZHEN⋅FUTIAN), Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai International Advanced Research Institute (SHENZHEN⋅FUTIAN), Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin, 300071, China
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3
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Ren Y, Zhou Z, Maxeiner K, Kaltbeitzel A, Harley I, Xing J, Wu Y, Wagner M, Landfester K, Lieberwirth I, Weil T, Ng DYW. Supramolecular Assembly in Live Cells Mapped by Real-Time Phasor-Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:11991-11999. [PMID: 38639465 PMCID: PMC11066860 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c01279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
The complex dynamics and transience of assembly pathways in living systems complicate the understanding of these molecular to nanoscale processes. Current technologies are unable to track the molecular events leading to the onset of assembly, where real-time information is imperative to correlate their rich biology. Using a chemically designed pro-assembling molecule, we map its transformation into nanofibers and their fusion with endosomes to form hollow fiber clusters. Tracked by phasor-fluorescence lifetime imaging (phasor-FLIM) in epithelial cells (L929, A549, MDA-MB 231) and correlative light-electron microscopy and tomography (CLEM), spatiotemporal splicing of the assembly events shows time-correlated metabolic dysfunction. The biological impact begins with assembly-induced endosomal disruption that reduces glucose transport into the cells, which, in turn, stymies mitochondrial respiration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Ren
- Max
Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Zhixuan Zhou
- Max
Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Konrad Maxeiner
- Max
Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Iain Harley
- Max
Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Jiaqi Xing
- Max
Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Yingke Wu
- Max
Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Manfred Wagner
- Max
Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | | | | | - Tanja Weil
- Max
Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - David Y. W. Ng
- Max
Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128 Mainz, Germany
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4
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Schauenburg D, Gao B, Rochet LNC, Schüler D, Coelho JAS, Ng DYW, Chudasama V, Kuan SL, Weil T. Macrocyclic Dual-Locked "Turn-On" Drug for Selective and Traceless Release in Cancer Cells. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202314143. [PMID: 38179812 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202314143] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Drug safety and efficacy due to premature release into the bloodstream and poor biodistribution remains a problem despite seminal advances in this area. To circumvent these limitations, we report drug cyclization based on dynamic covalent linkages to devise a dual lock for the small-molecule anticancer drug, camptothecin (CPT). Drug activity is "locked" within the cyclic structure by the redox responsive disulfide and pH-responsive boronic acid-salicylhydroxamate and turns on only in the presence of acidic pH, reactive oxygen species and glutathione through traceless release. Notably, the dual-responsive CPT is more active (100-fold) than the non-cleavable (permanently closed) analogue. We further include a bioorthogonal handle in the backbone for functionalization to generate cyclic-locked, cell-targeting peptide- and protein-CPTs, for targeted delivery of the drug and traceless release in triple negative metastatic breast cancer cells to inhibit cell growth at low nanomolar concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Schauenburg
- Synthesis of Macromolecules, Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Bingjie Gao
- Synthesis of Macromolecules, Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Léa N C Rochet
- Department of Chemistry, University College London, London, WC1H 0AJ, UK
| | - Darijan Schüler
- Synthesis of Macromolecules, Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jaime A S Coelho
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - David Y W Ng
- Synthesis of Macromolecules, Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Vijay Chudasama
- Department of Chemistry, University College London, London, WC1H 0AJ, UK
| | - Seah Ling Kuan
- Synthesis of Macromolecules, Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128, Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Inorganic Chemistry I, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tanja Weil
- Synthesis of Macromolecules, Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, 55128, Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Inorganic Chemistry I, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
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5
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Schauenburg D, Weil T. Chemical Reactions in Living Systems. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2303396. [PMID: 37679060 PMCID: PMC10885656 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
The term "in vivo ("in the living") chemistry" refers to chemical reactions that take place in a complex living system such as cells, tissue, body liquids, or even in an entire organism. In contrast, reactions that occur generally outside living organisms in an artificial environment (e.g., in a test tube) are referred to as in vitro. Over the past decades, significant contributions have been made in this rapidly growing field of in vivo chemistry, but it is still not fully understood, which transformations proceed efficiently without the formation of by-products or how product formation in such complex environments can be characterized. Potential applications can be imagined that synthesize drug molecules directly within the cell or confer new cellular functions through controlled chemical transformations that will improve the understanding of living systems and develop new therapeutic strategies. The guiding principles of this contribution are twofold: 1) Which chemical reactions can be translated from the laboratory to the living system? 2) Which characterization methods are suitable for studying reactions and structure formation in complex living environments?
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tanja Weil
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer ResearchAckermannweg 1055128MainzGermany
- Institute of Inorganic Chemistry IUlm UniversityAlbert‐Einstein‐Allee 1189081UlmGermany
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6
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Baghdasaryan O, Khan S, Lin JC, Lee-Kin J, Hsu CY, Hu CMJ, Tan C. Synthetic control of living cells by intracellular polymerization. Trends Biotechnol 2024; 42:241-252. [PMID: 37743158 PMCID: PMC11132853 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
An emerging cellular engineering method creates synthetic polymer matrices inside cells. By contrast with classical genetic, enzymatic, or radioactive techniques, this materials-based approach introduces non-natural polymers inside cells, thus modifying cellular states and functionalities. Here, we cover various materials and chemistries that have been exploited to create intracellular polymer matrices. In addition, we discuss emergent cellular properties due to the intracellular polymerization, including nonreplicating but active metabolism, maintenance of membrane integrity, and resistance to environmental stressors. We also discuss past work and future opportunities for developing and applying synthetic cells that contain intracellular polymers. The materials-based approach will usher in new applications of synthetic cells for broad biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofelya Baghdasaryan
- Biomedical Engineering, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616-5270, USA
| | - Shahid Khan
- Biomedical Engineering, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616-5270, USA
| | - Jung-Chen Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei 115, Taiwan
| | - Jared Lee-Kin
- Biomedical Engineering, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616-5270, USA
| | - Chung-Yao Hsu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei 115, Taiwan
| | - Che-Ming Jack Hu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei 115, Taiwan.
| | - Cheemeng Tan
- Biomedical Engineering, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616-5270, USA.
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7
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Wang H, Lai Y, Li D, Karges J, Zhang P, Huang H. Self-Assembly of Erlotinib-Platinum(II) Complexes for Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Targeted Photodynamic Therapy. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1336-1346. [PMID: 38183413 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Due to cell mutation and self-adaptation, the application of clinical drugs with early epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-targeted inhibitors is severely limited. To overcome this limitation, herein, the synthesis and in-depth biological evaluation of an erlotinib-platinum(II) complex as an EGFR-targeted anticancer agent is reported. The metal complex is able to self-assemble inside an aqueous solution and readily form nanostructures with strong photophysical properties. While being poorly toxic toward healthy cells and upon treatment in the dark, the compound was able to induce a cytotoxic effect in the very low micromolar range upon irradiation against EGFR overexpressing (drug resistant) human lung cancer cells as well as multicellular tumor spheroids. Mechanistic insights revealed that the compound was able to selectively degrade the EGFR using the lysosomal degradation pathway upon generation of singlet oxygen at the EGFR. We are confident that this work will open new avenues for the treatment of EGFR-overexpressing tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haobing Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Yidan Lai
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Dan Li
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Johannes Karges
- Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum 44780, Germany
| | - Pingyu Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Huaiyi Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
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8
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Wang H, Mills J, Sun B, Cui H. Therapeutic Supramolecular Polymers: Designs and Applications. Prog Polym Sci 2024; 148:101769. [PMID: 38188703 PMCID: PMC10769153 DOI: 10.1016/j.progpolymsci.2023.101769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The self-assembly of low-molecular-weight building motifs into supramolecular polymers has unlocked a new realm of materials with distinct properties and tremendous potential for advancing medical practices. Leveraging the reversible and dynamic nature of non-covalent interactions, these supramolecular polymers exhibit inherent responsiveness to their microenvironment, physiological cues, and biomolecular signals, making them uniquely suited for diverse biomedical applications. In this review, we intend to explore the principles of design, synthesis methodologies, and strategic developments that underlie the creation of supramolecular polymers as carriers for therapeutics, contributing to the treatment and prevention of a spectrum of human diseases. We delve into the principles underlying monomer design, emphasizing the pivotal role of non-covalent interactions, directionality, and reversibility. Moreover, we explore the intricate balance between thermodynamics and kinetics in supramolecular polymerization, illuminating strategies for achieving controlled sizes and distributions. Categorically, we examine their exciting biomedical applications: individual polymers as discrete carriers for therapeutics, delving into their interactions with cells, and in vivo dynamics; and supramolecular polymeric hydrogels as injectable depots, with a focus on their roles in cancer immunotherapy, sustained drug release, and regenerative medicine. As the field continues to burgeon, harnessing the unique attributes of therapeutic supramolecular polymers holds the promise of transformative impacts across the biomedical landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Institute for NanoBiotechnology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Jason Mills
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Institute for NanoBiotechnology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Boran Sun
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Institute for NanoBiotechnology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Honggang Cui
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Institute for NanoBiotechnology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Department of Oncology and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Center for Nanomedicine, The Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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9
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Zhang X, Wang J, Zhang Y, Yang Z, Gao J, Gu Z. Synthesizing biomaterials in living organisms. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:8126-8164. [PMID: 37921625 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00999d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Living organisms fabricate biomacromolecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins by the self-assembly process. The research on the mechanism of biomacromolecule formation also inspires the exploration of in vivo synthesized biomaterials. By elaborate design, artificial building blocks or precursors can self-assemble or polymerize into functional biomaterials within living organisms. In recent decades, these so-called in vivo synthesized biomaterials have achieved extensive applications in cell-fate manipulation, disease theranostics, bioanalysis, cellular surface engineering, and tissue regeneration. In this review, we classify strategies for in vivo synthesis into non-covalent, covalent, and genetic types. The development of these approaches is based on the chemical principles of supramolecular chemistry and synthetic chemistry, biological cues such as enzymes and microenvironments, and the means of synthetic biology. By summarizing the design principles in detail, some insights into the challenges and opportunities in this field are provided to enlighten further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, P. R. China.
| | - Junxia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems of Zhejiang Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery and Release Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, P. R. China.
| | - Zhimou Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, P. R. China.
| | - Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, P. R. China.
| | - Zhen Gu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems of Zhejiang Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou 311121, China
- Jinhua Institute of Zhejiang University, Jinhua 321299, China
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, China
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery and Release Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
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10
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Borutzki Y, Skos L, Gerner C, Meier‐Menches SM. Exploring the Potential of Metal-Based Candidate Drugs as Modulators of the Cytoskeleton. Chembiochem 2023; 24:e202300178. [PMID: 37345897 PMCID: PMC10946712 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
During recent years, accumulating evidence suggested that metal-based candidate drugs are promising modulators of cytoskeletal and cytoskeleton-associated proteins. This was substantiated by the identification and validation of actin, vimentin and plectin as targets of distinct ruthenium(II)- and platinum(II)-based modulators. Despite this, structural information about molecular interaction is scarcely available. Here, we compile the scattered reports about metal-based candidate molecules that influence the cytoskeleton, its associated proteins and explore their potential to interfere in cancer-related processes, including proliferation, invasion and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Advances in this field depend crucially on determining binding sites and on gaining comprehensive insight into molecular drug-target interactions. These are key steps towards establishing yet elusive structure-activity relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin Borutzki
- Institute of Inorganic ChemistryFaculty of ChemistryUniversity of Vienna1090ViennaAustria
- Department of Analytical ChemistryFaculty of ChemistryUniversity of Vienna1090ViennaAustria
- Doctoral School of ChemistryUniversity of Vienna1090ViennaAustria
| | - Lukas Skos
- Department of Analytical ChemistryFaculty of ChemistryUniversity of Vienna1090ViennaAustria
- Doctoral School of ChemistryUniversity of Vienna1090ViennaAustria
| | - Christopher Gerner
- Department of Analytical ChemistryFaculty of ChemistryUniversity of Vienna1090ViennaAustria
- Joint Metabolome FacilityUniversity of Vienna and Medical University Vienna1090ViennaAustria
| | - Samuel M. Meier‐Menches
- Institute of Inorganic ChemistryFaculty of ChemistryUniversity of Vienna1090ViennaAustria
- Department of Analytical ChemistryFaculty of ChemistryUniversity of Vienna1090ViennaAustria
- Joint Metabolome FacilityUniversity of Vienna and Medical University Vienna1090ViennaAustria
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11
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Chen Y, Zuo M, Chen Y, Yu P, Chen X, Zhang X, Yuan W, Wu Y, Zhu W, Zhao Y. Nanocompartment-confined polymerization in living systems. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5229. [PMID: 37634028 PMCID: PMC10460442 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40935-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymerization in living systems has become an effective strategy to regulate cell functions and behavior. However, the requirement of high concentrations of monomers, the existence of complicated intracorporal interferences, and the demand for extra external stimulations hinder their further biological applications. Herein, a nanocompartment-confined strategy that provides a confined and secluded environment for monomer enrichment and isolation is developed to achieve high polymerization efficiency, reduce the interference from external environment, and realize broad-spectrum polymerizations in living systems. For exogenous photopolymerization, the light-mediated free-radical polymerization of sodium 4-styrenesulfonate induces a 2.7-fold increase in the reaction rate with the protection of a confined environment. For endogenous hydrogen peroxide-responsive polymerization, p‑aminodiphenylamine hydrochloride embedded in a nanocompartment not only performs a 6.4-fold higher reaction rate than that of free monomers, but also activates an effective second near-infrared photoacoustic imaging-guided photothermal immunotherapy at tumor sites. This nanocompartment-confined strategy breaks the shackles of conventional polymerization, providing a universal platform for in vivo synthesis of polymers with diverse structures and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- MOE International Joint Research Laboratory on Synthetic Biology and Medicines, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, P. R. China
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Mengxuan Zuo
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Yu Chen
- Shenzhen Grubbs Institute and Department of Chemistry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Peiyuan Yu
- Shenzhen Grubbs Institute and Department of Chemistry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China.
| | - Xiaokai Chen
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Xiaodong Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Wei Yuan
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Yinglong Wu
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Wei Zhu
- MOE International Joint Research Laboratory on Synthetic Biology and Medicines, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, P. R. China.
| | - Yanli Zhao
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore.
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12
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Wei F, Ke L, Gao S, Karges J, Wang J, Chen Y, Ji L, Chao H. In situ oxidative polymerization of platinum(iv) prodrugs in pore-confined spaces of CaCO 3 nanoparticles for cancer chemoimmunotherapy. Chem Sci 2023; 14:7005-7015. [PMID: 37389267 PMCID: PMC10306087 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc02264a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance and metastases are the leading causes of death in clinics. To overcome this limitation, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic agents and drug formulations that are able to therapeutically intervene by non-traditional mechanisms. Herein, the physical adsorption and oxidative polymerization of Pt(iv) prodrugs in pore-confined spaces of CaCO3 nanoparticles is presented, and the nanomaterial surface was coated with DSPE-PEG2000-Biotin to improve aqueous solubility and tumor targeting. While the nanoparticle scaffold remained stable in an aqueous solution, it quickly degraded into Ca2+ in the presence of acid and into cisplatin in the presence of GSH. The nanoparticles were found to interact in cisplatin-resistant non-small lung cancer cells by a multimodal mechanism of action involving mitochondrial Ca2+ overload, dual depletion of GSH, nuclear DNA platination, and amplification of ROS and lipid peroxide generation, resulting in triggering cell death by a combination of apoptosis, ferroptosis and immunogenic cell death in vitro and in vivo. This study could present a novel strategy for the treatment of drug-resistant and metastatic tumors and therefore overcome the limitations of currently used therapeutic agents in the clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangmian Wei
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Libing Ke
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Siyuan Gao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Johannes Karges
- Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr-University Bochum Universitätsstrasse 150 44780 Bochum Germany
| | - Jinquan Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology Drug Candidate, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University Guangzhou 510006 China
| | - Yu Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Liangnian Ji
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Hui Chao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Organic Chemistry and Functional Molecule, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Technology Xiangtan 400201 P. R. China
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13
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Li C, Chen Y, Gao Y, Wang X, Wang J, Zhang P, Hu X, Li L, Tong W, Ren Z, Yao W. A nanomedicine based on stoichiometric coordination of camptothecin and organoplatinum (II) for synergistic antitumor therapy. Acta Biomater 2023; 164:553-562. [PMID: 37072068 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
Precise combination therapy, involving multiple chemotherapeutics with pharmacologically synergistic antitumor effects, is a promising approach to address the challenge of monotherapy with insufficient activity towards their targets of interest. We employed Pt←pyridine coordination-driven assembly to construct a stoichiometric coordination complex of camptothecin and organoplatinum (II) (Pt-CPT). The Pt-CPT complex exhibited a remarkable synergistic effect toward several tumor cell lines, which is equal to the optimal synergistic effect of (PEt3)2Pt(OTf)2 (Pt) and CPT mixture at various ratios. An amphiphilic polymer with H2O2-responsiveness and glutathione (GSH)-depleting ability (PO) was used to encapsulate Pt-CPT complex to enable the nanomedicine (Pt-CPT@PO) with prolonged blood circulation and elevated tumor accumulation. The Pt-CPT@PO nanomedicine exhibited remarkable synergistic antitumor efficacy and antimetastatic effect on a mice orthotopic breast tumor model. This work demonstrated the potential of stoichiometric coordination-driven assembly of organic therapeutics with metal-based drugs in developing advanced nanomedicine with optimal synergistic antitumor activity. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: : In this study, for the first time, we employed Pt←pyridine coordination-driven assembly to construct a stoichiometric coordination complex of camptothecin and organoplatinum (II) (Pt-CPT), with an optimal synergistic effect at various ratios. Then it was encapsulated into an amphiphilic polymer with H2O2-responsiveness and glutathione (GSH)-depleting ability (PO) to enable the nanomedicine (Pt-CPT@PO) with prolonged blood circulation and elevated tumor accumulation. The Pt-CPT@PO nanomedicine exhibited remarkable synergistic antitumor efficacy and antimetastatic effect on a mice orthotopic breast tumor model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China
| | - Yu Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China; Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China
| | - Yong Gao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058 P. R. China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China
| | - Jiaqiang Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China
| | - Xiaobo Hu
- Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China; Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China
| | - Lei Li
- Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China; Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China
| | - Weijun Tong
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058 P. R. China.
| | - Zhigang Ren
- Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China; Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China.
| | - Weitao Yao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052 P. R. China.
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14
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Liu X, Zhan W, Gao G, Jiang Q, Zhang X, Zhang H, Sun X, Han W, Wu FG, Liang G. Apoptosis-Amplified Assembly of Porphyrin Nanofiber Enhances Photodynamic Therapy of Oral Tumor. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:7918-7930. [PMID: 36987560 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c13189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common oral cancer, having high recurrence and metastasis features. In addition to surgery, photodynamic therapy (PDT) is considered as another effective approach for OSCC treatment. The water solubility of currently available PDT photosensitizers (PSs) is poor, lowering their singlet oxygen (1O2) yield and consequent PDT efficiency. Strategies of PS assembly have been reported to increase 1O2 yield, but it is still possible to further enhance PDT efficiency. In this work, we utilized apoptosis to amplify the assembly of porphyrin nanofibers for enhanced PDT of OSCC. A water-soluble porphyrin derivative, Ac-Asp-Glu-Val-Asp-Asp-TPP (Ac-DEVDD-TPP), was designed for this purpose. Upon caspase-3 (Casp3, an activated enzyme during apoptosis) cleavage and laser irradiation, Ac-DEVDD-TPP was converted to D-TPP, which spontaneously self-assembled into porphyrin nanofibers, accompanied by 1.4-fold and 2.1-fold 1O2 generations in vitro and in cells, respectively. The as-formed porphyrin nanofiber induced efficient cell apoptosis and pyroptosis. In vivo experiments demonstrated that, compared with the scrambled control compound Ac-DEDVD-TPP, Ac-DEVDD-TPP led to 6.2-fold and 1.3-fold expressions of Casp3 in subcutaneous and orthotopic oral tumor models, respectively, and significantly suppressed the tumors. We envision that our strategy of apoptosis-amplified porphyrin assembly might be applied for OSCC treatment in the clinic in the near future.
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15
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Yang X, Lu H, Kong N, Wang H. Confinement of Assemblies of Peptides by Chemical Reactions in Living Cells. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202203145. [PMID: 36507583 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202203145] [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: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The self-assembly of peptides plays an important role in optics, catalysis, medicine, and disease treatment. In recent years, peptide-based materials have exhibited great potential for cancer therapy and disease imaging due to their excellent biocompatibility, structural tenability, and ease of functionality. Peptides could self-assemble into diverse nanostructures in vivo triggered by endogenous stimuli, which initiated chemical reactions and self-assembled to achieve desired biological functions in the tumor microenvironment. This concept introduces the utilization of endogenous triggers to construct functional nanostructures in vivo and their corresponding biological applications. After briefly discussing the representative example of chemical reactions induced self-assembly of peptides in the living system, we describe the several stimuli triggered self-assembly for constructing therapeutic assemblies and serving as an imaging probe. Finally, we give a brief outlook to discuss the future direction of this exciting new field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejiao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, Institute of Natural Sciences Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Honglei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, Institute of Natural Sciences Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Nan Kong
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, Institute of Natural Sciences Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Huaimin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, Institute of Natural Sciences Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
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16
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Abstract
The polymerization of biomolecules is a central operation in biology that connects molecular signals with proliferative and information-rich events in cells. As molecules arrange precisely across 3-D space, they create new functional capabilities such as catalysis and transport highways and exhibit new phase separation phenomena that fuel nonequilibrium dynamics in cells. Hence, the observed polymer chemistry manifests itself as a molecular basis leading to cellular phenotypes, expressed as a multitude of hierarchical structures found in cell biology. Although many milestone discoveries had accompanied the rise of the synthetic polymer era, fundamental studies were realized within a closed, pristine environment and that their behavior in a complex multicomponent system remains challenging and thus unexplored. From this perspective, there is a rich trove of undiscovered knowledge that awaits the polymer science community that can revolutionize understanding in the interactive nanoscale world of the living cell.In this Account, we discuss the strategies that have enabled synthetic polymer chemistry to be conducted within the cells (membrane inclusive) and to establish monomer design principles that offer spatiotemporal control of the polymerization. As reaction considerations such as monomer concentration, polymer growth dynamics, and reactivities are intertwined with the subcellular environment and transport processes, we first provide a chemical narrative of each major cellular compartment. The conditions within each compartment will therefore set the boundaries on the type of polymer chemistry that can be conducted. Both covalent and supramolecular polymerization concepts are explored separately in the context of scaffold design, polymerization mechanism, and activation. To facilitate transport into a localized subcellular space, we show that monomers can be reversibly modified by targeting groups or stimulus-responsive motifs that react within the specific compartment. Upon polymerization, we discuss the characterization of the resultant polymeric structures and how these phase-separated structures would impact biological processes such as cell cycle, metabolism, and apoptosis. As we begin to integrate cellular biochemistry with in situ polymer science, we identify landmark challenges and technological hurdles that, when overcome, would lead to invaluable discoveries in macromolecular therapeutics and biology.
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