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Abdelaal AM, Sohal IS, Iyer SG, Sudarshan K, Orellana EA, Ozcan KE, dos Santos AP, Low PS, Kasinski AL. Selective targeting of chemically modified miR-34a to prostate cancer using a small molecule ligand and an endosomal escape agent. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102193. [PMID: 38745855 PMCID: PMC11091501 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Use of tumor-suppressive microRNAs (miRNAs) as anti-cancer agents is hindered by the lack of effective delivery vehicles, entrapment of the miRNA within endocytic compartments, and rapid degradation of miRNA by nucleases. To address these issues, we developed a miRNA delivery strategy that includes (1) a targeting ligand, (2) an endosomal escape agent, nigericin and (3) a chemically modified miRNA. The delivery ligand, DUPA (2-[3-(1,3-dicarboxy propyl) ureido] pentanedioic acid), was selected based on its specificity for prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), a receptor routinely upregulated in prostate cancer-one of the leading causes of cancer death among men. DUPA was conjugated to the tumor suppressive miRNA, miR-34a (DUPA-miR-34a) based on the ability of miR-34a to inhibit prostate cancer cell proliferation. To mediate endosomal escape, nigericin was incorporated into the complex, resulting in DUPA-nigericin-miR-34a. Both DUPA-miR-34a and DUPA-nigericin-miR-34a specifically bound to, and were taken up by, PSMA-expressing cells in vitro and in vivo. And while both DUPA-miR-34a and DUPA-nigericin-miR-34a downregulated miR-34a target genes, only DUPA-nigericin-miR-34a decreased cell proliferation in vitro and delayed tumor growth in vivo. Tumor growth was further reduced using a fully modified version of miR-34a that has significantly increased stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M. Abdelaal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Ikjot S. Sohal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Shreyas G. Iyer
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | | | - Esteban A. Orellana
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Kenan E. Ozcan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Andrea P. dos Santos
- Department of Comparative Pathology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Philip S. Low
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Andrea L. Kasinski
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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2
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Ning D, Xue J, Lou X, Shao R, Liu Y, Chen G. Transforming toxins into treatments: the revolutionary role of α-amanitin in cancer therapy. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:1705-1716. [PMID: 38555326 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03727-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Amanita phalloides is the primary species responsible for fatal mushroom poisoning, as its main toxin, α-amanitin, irreversibly and potently inhibits eukaryotic RNA polymerase II (RNAP II), leading to cell death. There is no specific antidote for α-amanitin, which hinders its clinical application. However, with the advancement of precision medicine in oncology, including the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), the potential value of various toxic small molecules has been explored. These ADCs ingeniously combine the targeting precision of antibodies with the cytotoxicity of small-molecule payloads to precisely kill tumor cells. We searched PubMed for studies in this area using these MeSH terms "Amanitins, Alpha-Amanitin, Therapeutic use, Immunotherapy, Immunoconjugates, Antibodies" and did not limit the time interval. Recent studies have conducted preclinical experiments on ADCs based on α-amanitin, showing promising therapeutic effects and good tolerance in primates. The current challenges include the not fully understood toxicological mechanism of α-amanitin and the lack of clinical studies to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of ADCs developed based on α-amanitin. In this article, we will discuss the role and therapeutic efficacy of α-amanitin as an effective payload in ADCs for the treatment of various cancers, providing background information for the research and application strategies of current and future drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyuan Ning
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Jinfang Xue
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Xiran Lou
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Ruifei Shao
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Guobing Chen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, No 157 Jinbi Road, Xishan District, Kunming, 650032, China.
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3
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Machulkin AE, Petrov SA, Bodenko V, Larkina MS, Plotnikov E, Yuldasheva F, Tretyakova M, Bezverkhniaia E, Zyk NY, Stasyuk E, Zelchan R, Majouga AG, Tolmachev V, Orlova A, Beloglazkina EK, Yusubov MS. Synthesis and Preclinical Evaluation of Urea-Based Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen-Targeted Conjugates Labeled with 177Lu. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:1457-1473. [PMID: 38751647 PMCID: PMC11092120 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
177Lu-labeled small-molecule prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) targeted tracers are therapeutic agents for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Optimizing molecular design holds the potential to further enhance the pharmacokinetic properties of PSMA-targeted agents while preserving their potent therapeutic effects. In this study, six novel N-[N-[(S)-1,3-dicarboxypropyl]carbamoyl]-(S)-l-lysine (DCL) urea-based PSMA ligand 2,2',2″,2‴-(1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetrayl)tetraacetic acid conjugates were synthesized. These conjugates feature polypeptide linkers containing the Phe-Phe peptide sequence and an aromatic fragment at the ε-NH-Lys group of the DCL fragment. The synthesis yielded products with satisfactory yields ranging from 60% to 72%, paving the way for their preclinical evaluation. The labeling of the new variants of urea-based PSMA inhibitors provided a radiochemical yield of over 95%. The 177Lu-labeled conjugates demonstrated specific and moderate affinity binding to PSMA-expressing human cancer cells PC3-pip in vitro and specific accumulation in PSMA-expressing xenografts in vivo. Based on the results, both the lipophilicity and the type of substituent in the linker significantly influence the binding properties of the PSMA inhibitor and its biodistribution profile. Specifically, the studied variants containing a bromine substituent or a hydroxyl group introduced into the aromatic fragment of the phenylalanyl residue in DCL exhibit higher affinities to PSMA compared to variants with only a chlorine-substituted aromatic fragment or variants without any substituents. The [177Lu]Lu-13C with the bromine substituent was characterized by the highest activity accumulation in blood, salivary glands, muscle, bone, and gastrointestinal tract and had inasmuch as an unfavorable pharmacokinetic profile. The negative charge of the carboxyl group in the phenyl moiety of the [177Lu]Lu-13A variant has demonstrated a positive effect on reducing the retention of activity in the liver and the kidneys (the ratio of tumor to kidneys was 1.3-fold). Low accumulation in normal tissues in vivo indicates that this novel PSMA-targeting inhibitor is a promising radioligand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksei E. Machulkin
- Department
of Chemistry, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State
University, Leninskie
Gory 1-3, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
- Department
for Biochemistry, People’s Friendship
University of Russia Named after Patrice Lumumba (RUDN University), Moscow 117198, Russia
| | - Stanislav A. Petrov
- Department
of Chemistry, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State
University, Leninskie
Gory 1-3, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Vitalina Bodenko
- Research
Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied
Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
- Scientific
and Educational Laboratory of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research, Siberian State Medical University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Mariia S. Larkina
- Research
Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied
Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Siberian State
Medical University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Evgenii Plotnikov
- Research
Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied
Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
- Mental
Health Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk 634014, Russia
| | - Feruza Yuldasheva
- Research
Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied
Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Maria Tretyakova
- Research
Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied
Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Bezverkhniaia
- Research
Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied
Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75183, Sweden
| | - Nikolay Yu. Zyk
- Department
of Chemistry, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State
University, Leninskie
Gory 1-3, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Elena Stasyuk
- School of
Nuclear Science and Engineering, Tomsk Polytechnic
University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Roman Zelchan
- Research
Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied
Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Alexander G. Majouga
- Dmitry
Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia, Miusskaya sq. 9, Moscow 125047, Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir Tolmachev
- Department
of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala
University, Uppsala 75185, Sweden
| | - Anna Orlova
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75183, Sweden
| | - Elena K. Beloglazkina
- Department
of Chemistry, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State
University, Leninskie
Gory 1-3, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Mekhman S. Yusubov
- Research
Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied
Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
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Zheng Y, Xu R, Cheng H, Tai W. Mono-amino acid linkers enable highly potent small molecule-drug conjugates by conditional release. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1048-1060. [PMID: 38369752 PMCID: PMC11163218 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The endosome cleavable linkers have been widely employed by antibody-drug conjugates and small molecule-drug conjugates (SMDCs) to control the accurate release of payloads. An effective linker should provide stability in systemic circulation but efficient payload release at its targeted tumor sites. This conflicting requirement always leads to linker design with increasing structural complexity. Balance of the effectiveness and structural complexity presents a linker design challenge. Here, we explored the possibility of mono-amino acid as so far the simplest cleavable linker (X-linker) for SMDC-based auristatin delivery. Within a diverse set of X-linkers, the SMDCs differed widely in bioactivity, with one (Asn-linker) having significantly improved potency (IC50 = 0.1 nM) and fast response to endosomal cathepsin B cleavage. Notably, this SMDC, once grafted with effector protein fragment crystallizable (Fc), demonstrated a profound in vivo therapeutic effect in aspects of targetability, circulation half-life (t1/2 = 73 h), stability, and anti-tumor efficacy. On the basis of these results, we believe that this mono-amino acid linker, together with the new SMDC-Fc scaffold, has significant potential in targeted delivery application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Ruolin Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Hong Cheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Wanyi Tai
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China.
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5
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Zhang Y, Song X, Xu Z, Lv X, Long Y, Lan X, Lei P. Construction of truncated PSMA as a PET reporter gene for CAR T cell trafficking. J Leukoc Biol 2024; 115:476-482. [PMID: 37943840 DOI: 10.1093/jleuko/qiad127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In solid tumors, there are multiple barriers for a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell to surmount in order to reach the tumor site. For better understanding whether CAR T cells effectively infiltrate into tumor site, and simultaneously, whether there are off-target effects, real-time monitoring technologies need to be established. Cell-based positron emission tomography reporter genes have been developed to monitor engineered cells in living subjects. In this study, we reported the construction of a novel reporter gene truncated prostate-specific membrane antigen (ΔPSMA) pending for monitoring CAR T cells using 68Ga-PSMA-617 and a method for tracking the distribution of CAR T cells in vivo was developed. Data were provided to demonstrate that ΔPSMA was predominantly localized on the plasma membrane and could take up 68Ga-PSMA-617 in vitro in a time-dependent manner. And the expression of ΔPSMA did not affect CAR expression and cytolytic capacity of CAR T cells. CAR-ΔPSMA T cell xenografts in nude mice were clearly imaged by positron emission tomography 60 min after injection of 68Ga-PSMA-617. PSMA paired with 68Ga-PSMA-617 was capable of identifying approximately 1 × 104 engineered CAR T cells. The ability to image small numbers of CAR T cells in vivo would be helpful to accelerate the translation of cell-based therapies into the clinic, and it may reinforce our understanding of treatment success, failure, and toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yirui Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13, Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Xiangming Song
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, No. 1277 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhuoshuo Xu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13, Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Xiaoying Lv
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, No. 1277 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yu Long
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, No. 1277 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiaoli Lan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, No. 1277 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Ping Lei
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13, Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
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6
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Li W(J, Wang Y, Liu X, Wu S, Wang M, Turowski SG, Spernyak JA, Tracz A, Abdelaal AM, Sudarshan K, Puzanov I, Chatta G, Kasinski AL, Tang DG. Developing Folate-Conjugated miR-34a Therapeutic for Prostate Cancer: Challenges and Promises. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2123. [PMID: 38396800 PMCID: PMC10888849 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042123] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) remains a common cancer with high mortality in men due to its heterogeneity and the emergence of drug resistance. A critical factor contributing to its lethality is the presence of prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs), which can self-renew, long-term propagate tumors, and mediate treatment resistance. MicroRNA-34a (miR-34a) has shown promise as an anti-PCSC therapeutic by targeting critical molecules involved in cancer stem cell (CSC) survival and functions. Despite extensive efforts, the development of miR-34a therapeutics still faces challenges, including non-specific delivery and delivery-associated toxicity. One emerging delivery approach is ligand-mediated conjugation, aiming to achieve specific delivery of miR-34a to cancer cells, thereby enhancing efficacy while minimizing toxicity. Folate-conjugated miR-34a (folate-miR-34a) has demonstrated promising anti-tumor efficacy in breast and lung cancers by targeting folate receptor α (FOLR1). Here, we first show that miR-34a, a TP53 transcriptional target, is reduced in PCa that harbors TP53 loss or mutations and that miR-34a mimic, when transfected into PCa cells, downregulated multiple miR-34a targets and inhibited cell growth. When exploring the therapeutic potential of folate-miR-34a, we found that folate-miR-34a exhibited impressive inhibitory effects on breast, ovarian, and cervical cancer cells but showed minimal effects on and targeted delivery to PCa cells due to a lack of appreciable expression of FOLR1 in PCa cells. Folate-miR-34a also did not display any apparent effect on PCa cells expressing prostate-specific membrane antigen (PMSA) despite the reported folate's binding capability to PSMA. These results highlight challenges in the specific delivery of folate-miR-34a to PCa due to a lack of target (receptor) expression. Our study offers novel insights into the challenges and promises within the field and casts light on the development of ligand-conjugated miR-34a therapeutics for PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen (Jess) Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; (Y.W.); (X.L.); (S.W.); (M.W.)
- Experimental Therapeutics (ET) Graduate Program, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Yunfei Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; (Y.W.); (X.L.); (S.W.); (M.W.)
| | - Xiaozhuo Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; (Y.W.); (X.L.); (S.W.); (M.W.)
| | - Shan Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; (Y.W.); (X.L.); (S.W.); (M.W.)
| | - Moyi Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; (Y.W.); (X.L.); (S.W.); (M.W.)
| | - Steven G. Turowski
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Joseph A. Spernyak
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Amanda Tracz
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; (Y.W.); (X.L.); (S.W.); (M.W.)
| | - Ahmed M. Abdelaal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Kasireddy Sudarshan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Igor Puzanov
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Gurkamal Chatta
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Andrea L. Kasinski
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Dean G. Tang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; (Y.W.); (X.L.); (S.W.); (M.W.)
- Experimental Therapeutics (ET) Graduate Program, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
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7
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Li WJ, Wang Y, Liu X, Wu S, Wang M, Turowski SG, Spernyak JA, Tracz A, Abdelaal AM, Sudarshan K, Puzanov I, Chatta G, Kasinski AL, Tang DG. Developing folate-conjugated miR-34a therapeutic for prostate cancer treatment: Challenges and promises. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.25.568612. [PMID: 38045265 PMCID: PMC10690264 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.25.568612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) remains a common cancer with high mortality in men due to its heterogeneity and the emergence of drug resistance. A critical factor contributing to its lethality is the presence of prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs), which can self-renew, long-term propagate tumors and mediate treatment resistance. MicroRNA-34a (miR-34a) has shown promise as an anti-PCSC therapeutic by targeting critical molecules involved in cancer stem cell (CSC) survival and functions. Despite extensive efforts, the development of miR-34a therapeutics still faces challenges, including non-specific delivery and delivery-associated toxicity. One emerging delivery approach is ligand-mediated conjugation, aiming to achieve specific delivery of miR-34a to cancer cells, thereby enhancing efficacy while minimizing toxicity. Folate-conjugated miR-34a (folate-miR-34a) has demonstrated promising anti-tumor efficacy in breast and lung cancers by targeting folate receptor α (FOLR1). Here, we first show that miR-34a, a TP53 transcriptional target, is reduced in PCa that harbors TP53 loss or mutations and that miR-34a mimic, when transfected into PCa cells, downregulated multiple miR-34a targets and inhibited cell growth. When exploring the therapeutic potential of folate-miR-34a, we found that folate-miR-34a exhibited impressive inhibitory effects on breast, ovarian and cervical cancer cells but showed minimal effects on and targeted delivery to PCa cells due to a lack of appreciable expression of FOLR1 in PCa cells. Folate-miR-34a also did not display any apparent effect on PCa cells expressing prostate-specific membrane antigen (PMSA) despite the reported folate's binding capability to PSMA. These results highlight challenges in specific delivery of folate-miR-34a to PCa due to lack of target (receptor) expression. Our study offers novel insights on the challenges and promises within the field and cast light on the development of ligand-conjugated miR-34a therapeutics for PCa.
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8
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Nakajima R. Targeted Therapy for Prostate Cancer by Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen-Targeted Small-Molecule Drug Conjugates. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 2024; 72:136-142. [PMID: 38296554 DOI: 10.1248/cpb.c23-00535] [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] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
In the aging global population, prostate cancer is a worldwide health problem because the incidence rate of this disease increases at advanced ages. Although early-stage prostate cancer can be treated by total prostatectomy, the surgery causes side effects, such as incontinence and dysuria, that lower QOL. Once the disease progresses to metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), there are no effective chemotherapeutic agents without systematic side effects. Therefore, targeted therapies for mCPRC are urgently needed. Traditional antibody-drug conjugate treatments for prostate cancer have been tested in clinical trials and several side effects have been observed. Meanwhile, small-molecule drug conjugates (SMDCs) have certain advantages over antibody drug conjugates in terms of non-immunogenicity, reproducibility, and permeability. In this review, prostate-specific membrane antigen-targeted SMDCs for treating prostate cancer are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Nakajima
- Department of Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University
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9
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Chen M, Cai L, Xiang Y, Zhong L, Shi J. Advances in non-radioactive PSMA-targeted small molecule-drug conjugates in the treatment of prostate cancer. Bioorg Chem 2023; 141:106889. [PMID: 37813074 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Most patients with advanced prostate cancer (PCa) will develop metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) after androgen deprivation therapy, at this time the tumor enters the end stage, and the clinical treatment is very complicated, which requires rationalization of drugs to prolong the life of patients while improving their quality of life. Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is a promising biological target for drug delivery in mCRPC due to its high level of specific expression in PCa cell membranes and low expression in normal tissues. Non-radioactive PSMA-targeted small molecule-drug conjugates (SMDCs) are gradually becoming a heat of discovery due to their good affinity and specificity; simple synthesis steps and transport management methods. Non-radioactive PSMA-targeted SMDCs under investigation can be divided into two categories: SMDCs and dual-ligand coupled drugs, among which SMDCs are the most widespread form of this type of conjugate. SMDCs have three key components: cytotoxic load, linker, and small molecule targeting ligands. SMDCs are internalized into the cell after binding to PSMA on the cell membrane and stored in endosomes and lysosomes, where they are usually enzymatically cleaved to allow precise release of cytotoxic molecules and uniform diffusion into the tumor tissue. More than a dozen non-radioactive PSMA-targeted SMDCs have been developed, many of which have shown favorable properties in both in vitro and in vivo evaluations, demonstrating more favorable results than unmodified cytotoxic drugs. Therefore, non-radioactive PSMA-targeted SMDCs have great therapeutic potential for mCRPC as a form of targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Linxuan Cai
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Yu Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Ling Zhong
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Center for Medical Genetics, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, China.
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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10
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Yang X, Nao SC, Lin C, Kong L, Wang J, Ko CN, Liu J, Ma DL, Leung CH, Wang W. A cell-impermeable luminogenic probe for near-infrared imaging of prostate-specific membrane antigen in prostate cancer microenvironments. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 259:115659. [PMID: 37499288 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115659] [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: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) imaging probes are a promising tool for the diagnosis and image-guided surgery of prostate cancer (PCa). However, PSMA-specific luminescence probes for PCa detection and heterogeneity studies with high imaging contrast are lacking. Here, we report the first near-infrared (NIR) iridium(III) complex for the wash-free and specific imaging of PSMA in PCa cells and spheroids. The conjugation of a PSMA inhibitor, Lys-urea-Glu, to an iridium(III) complex synergizes the PSMA-specific affinity and biocompatibility of the inhibitor with the desirable photophysical properties of the iridium(III) complex, including NIR emission (670 nm), high photostability and a large Stokes shift. The cellular impermeability of the probe along with its strong binding affinity to PSMA enhances its specificity for PSMA, enabling the washing-free luminescent imaging of membrane PSMA with lower cytotoxicity. The probe was successfully applied for selectively visualizing PSMA-expressing cells and for the imaging of PSMA in a multicellular PCa model with good imaging penetration, indicating its potential use in complicated and heterogeneous tumor microenvironments. Furthermore, the probe showed good imaging performance in the PCa-bearing tumor mice via targeting PSMA in vivo. This work provides a novel strategy for the development of highly sensitive and specific NIR probes for PSMA in biological systems in vitro, which is of great significance for the precise diagnosis of PCa and for elucidating PCa heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xifang Yang
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China; Chongqing Technology Innovation Center, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chongqing, 400000, China
| | - Sang-Cuo Nao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Chuankai Lin
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China; School of Metallurgy and Chemical Engineering, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 86 Hongqi Road, Ganzhou, China; Chongqing Technology Innovation Center, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chongqing, 400000, China
| | - Lingtan Kong
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China; Chongqing Technology Innovation Center, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chongqing, 400000, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China; Chongqing Technology Innovation Center, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chongqing, 400000, China
| | - Chung-Nga Ko
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jinbiao Liu
- School of Metallurgy and Chemical Engineering, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, 86 Hongqi Road, Ganzhou, China.
| | - Dik-Lung Ma
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chung-Hang Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau; Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau; MoE Frontiers Science Centre for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau.
| | - Wanhe Wang
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China; Chongqing Technology Innovation Center, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chongqing, 400000, China.
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11
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Murce E, Spaan E, Beekman S, van den Brink L, Handula M, Stuurman D, de Ridder C, Dalm SU, Seimbille Y. Synthesis and Evaluation of ePSMA-DM1: A New Theranostic Small-Molecule Drug Conjugate (T-SMDC) for Prostate Cancer. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1072. [PMID: 37630990 PMCID: PMC10458530 DOI: 10.3390/ph16081072] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Small-molecule drug conjugates (SMDCs) are compounds in which a therapeutic payload is conjugated to a targeting vector, for specific delivery to the tumor site. This promising approach can be translated to the treatment of prostate cancer by selecting a targeting vector which binds to the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA). Moreover, the addition of a bifunctional chelator to the molecule allows for the use of both diagnostic and therapeutic radionuclides. In this way, the distribution of the SMDC in the body can be monitored, and combination therapy regimes can be implemented. We combined a glutamate-urea-lysine vector to the cytotoxic agent DM1 and a DOTA chelator via an optimized linker to obtain the theranostic SMDC (T-SMDC) ePSMA-DM1. ePSMA-DM1 retained a high binding affinity to PSMA and demonstrated PSMA-specific uptake in cells. Glutathione stability assays showed that the half-life of the T-SMDC in a reducing environment was 2 h, and full drug release was obtained after 6 h. Moreover, 100 nM of ePSMA-DM1 reduced the cell viability of the human PSMA-positive LS174T cells by >85% after 72 h of incubation, which was comparable to a 10-fold higher dose of free DM1. [111In]In-ePSMA-DM1 and [177Lu]Lu-ePSMA-DM1 were both obtained in high radiochemical yields and purities (>95%), with >90% stability in PBS and >80% stability in mouse serum for up to 24 h post incubation at 37 °C. SPECT/CT imaging studies allowed for a faint tumor visualization of [111In]In-ePSMA-DM1 at 1 h p.i., and the ex vivo biodistribution showed tumor uptake (2.39 ± 0.29% ID/g) at 1 h p.i., with the compound retained in the tumor for up to 24 h. Therefore, ePSMA-DM1 is a promising T-SMDC candidate for prostate cancer, and the data obtained so far warrant further investigations, such as therapeutic experiments, after further optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Murce
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (E.M.); (E.S.); (S.B.); (L.v.d.B.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (C.d.R.); (S.U.D.)
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Evelien Spaan
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (E.M.); (E.S.); (S.B.); (L.v.d.B.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (C.d.R.); (S.U.D.)
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Savanne Beekman
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (E.M.); (E.S.); (S.B.); (L.v.d.B.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (C.d.R.); (S.U.D.)
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lilian van den Brink
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (E.M.); (E.S.); (S.B.); (L.v.d.B.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (C.d.R.); (S.U.D.)
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maryana Handula
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (E.M.); (E.S.); (S.B.); (L.v.d.B.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (C.d.R.); (S.U.D.)
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Debra Stuurman
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (E.M.); (E.S.); (S.B.); (L.v.d.B.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (C.d.R.); (S.U.D.)
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Corrina de Ridder
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (E.M.); (E.S.); (S.B.); (L.v.d.B.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (C.d.R.); (S.U.D.)
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Simone U. Dalm
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (E.M.); (E.S.); (S.B.); (L.v.d.B.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (C.d.R.); (S.U.D.)
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yann Seimbille
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (E.M.); (E.S.); (S.B.); (L.v.d.B.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (C.d.R.); (S.U.D.)
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- TRIUMF, Life Sciences Division, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A3, Canada
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12
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Lahnif H, Grus T, Salvanou EA, Deligianni E, Stellas D, Bouziotis P, Rösch F. Old Drug, New Delivery Strategy: MMAE Repackaged. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108543. [PMID: 37239890 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108543] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting therapy is a concept that has gained significant importance in recent years, especially in oncology. The severe dose-limiting side effects of chemotherapy necessitate the development of novel, efficient and tolerable therapy approaches. In this regard, the prostate specific membrane antigene (PSMA) has been well established as a molecular target for diagnosis of, as well as therapy for, prostate cancer. Although most PSMA-targeting ligands are radiopharmaceuticals used in imaging or radioligand therapy, this article evaluates a PSMA-targeting small molecule-drug conjugate, and, thus, addresses a hitherto little-explored field. PSMA binding affinity and cytotoxicity were determined in vitro using cell-based assays. Enzyme-specific cleavage of the active drug was quantified via an enzyme-based assay. Efficacy and tolerability in vivo were assessed using an LNCaP xenograft model. Histopathological characterization of the tumor in terms of apoptotic status and proliferation rate was carried out using caspase-3 and Ki67 staining. The binding affinity of the Monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) conjugate was moderate, compared to the drug-free PSMA ligand. Cytotoxicity in vitro was in the nanomolar range. Both binding and cytotoxicity were found to be PSMA-specific. Additionally, complete MMAE release could be reached after incubation with cathepsin B. In vivo, the MMAE conjugate displayed good tolerability and dose-dependent inhibition of tumor growth. Immunohistochemical and histological studies revealed the antitumor effect of MMAE.VC.SA.617, resulting in the inhibition of proliferation and the enhancement of apoptosis. The developed MMAE conjugate showed good properties in vitro, as well as in vivo, and should, therefore, be considered a promising candidate for a translational approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanane Lahnif
- Department of Chemistry-TRIGA Site, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Tilmann Grus
- Department of Chemistry-TRIGA Site, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Evangelia-Alexandra Salvanou
- Radiochemical Studies Laboratory, INRASTES, National Center for Scientific Research "Demokritos", Ag. Paraskevi, 15341 Athens, Greece
| | - Elisavet Deligianni
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Stellas
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Penelope Bouziotis
- Radiochemical Studies Laboratory, INRASTES, National Center for Scientific Research "Demokritos", Ag. Paraskevi, 15341 Athens, Greece
| | - Frank Rösch
- Department of Chemistry-TRIGA Site, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55128 Mainz, Germany
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13
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Periche PG, Lin J, Bhupathiraju NVSDK, Kalidindi T, Johnson DS, Pillarsetty N, Mootoo DR. Targeting Carbohydrate Mimetics of Tetrahydrofuran-Containing Acetogenins to Prostate Cancer. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28072884. [PMID: 37049648 PMCID: PMC10095889 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28072884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The high potency of the tetrahydrofuran-containing acetogenins (THF-ACGs) against a broad range of human cancer cell lines has stimulated interest in structurally simpler mimetics. In this context, we have previously reported THF-ACG mimetics in which the THF and butenolide moieties of a mono-THF-ACG were replaced with carbohydrate and thiophene residues, respectively. In the present study, towards the targeting of these carbohydrate analogues to prostate cancer (PCa), we synthesized prodrugs in which a parent thiophene or butenolide congener was conjugated through a self-immolative linker to 2-[3-(1,3-dicarboxypropyl)ureido] pentanedioic acid (DUPA), a highly specific ligand for prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), which is overexpressed on prostate tumors. Both prodrugs were found to be more active against receptor positive LNCaP than receptor-negative PC-3 cells, with 2.5 and 12 times greater selectivity for the more potent thiophene analog and the less active butenolide congener, respectively. This selectivity for LNCaP over PC-3 contrasted with the behavior of the parent drugs, which showed similar or significantly higher activity for PC-3 compared to LNCaP. These data support the notion that higher activity of these DUPA-derived prodrugs against LNCaP cells is connected to their binding to PSMA and suggest that the conjugation of PSMA ligands to this family of cytotoxic agents may be effective for targeting them to PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Gonzalez Periche
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College and The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Jacky Lin
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College and The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Naga V S D K Bhupathiraju
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College and The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Teja Kalidindi
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Delissa S Johnson
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - David R Mootoo
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College and The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA
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14
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Aigbogun OP, Phenix CP, Krol ES, Price EW. The Chemistry of Creating Chemically Programmed Antibodies (cPAbs): Site-Specific Bioconjugation of Small Molecules. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:853-874. [PMID: 36696533 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Small-molecule drugs have been employed for years as therapeutics in the pharmaceutical industry. However, small-molecule drugs typically have short in vivo half-lives which is one of the largest impediments to the success of many potentially valuable pharmacologically active small molecules. The undesirable pharmacokinetics and pharmacology associated with some small molecules have led to the development of a new class of bioconjugates known as chemically programmed antibodies (cPAbs). cPAbs are bioconjugates in which antibodies are used to augment small molecules with effector functions and prolonged pharmacokinetic profiles, where the pharmacophore of the small molecule is harnessed for target binding and therefore biological targeting. Many different small molecules can be conjugated to large proteins such as full monoclonal antibodies (IgG), fragment crystallizable regions (Fc), or fragment antigen binding regions (Fab). In order to successfully and site-specifically conjugate small molecules to any class of antibodies (IgG, Fc, or Fab), the molecules must be derivatized with a functional group for ease of conjugation without altering the pharmacology of the small molecules. In this Review, we summarize the different synthetic or biological methods that have been employed to produce cPAbs. These unique chemistries have potential to be applied to other fields of antibody modification such as antibody drug conjugates, radioimmunoconjugates, and fluorophore-tagged antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omozojie P Aigbogun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Saskatchewan, 110 Science Place, Saskatoon, S7N-5C9 Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Christopher P Phenix
- Department of Chemistry, University of Saskatchewan, 110 Science Place, Saskatoon, S7N-5C9 Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Ed S Krol
- Drug Discovery and Development Research Group, College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, S7N-5E5 Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Eric W Price
- Department of Chemistry, University of Saskatchewan, 110 Science Place, Saskatoon, S7N-5C9 Saskatchewan, Canada
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15
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Krishnan MA, Pandit A, Sharma R, Chelvam V. Imaging of prostate cancer: optimizing affinity to prostate specific membrane antigen by spacer modifications in a tumor spheroid model. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2022; 40:9909-9930. [PMID: 34180367 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1936642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Early diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) is crucial for staging, treatment and management of patients. Prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA), highly over-expressed on PCa cells, is an excellent target for selective imaging of PCa. In recent years, various scaffolds have been explored as potential carriers to target diagnostic and therapeutic agents to PSMA+ tumour cells. Numerous fluorescent or radioisotope probes linked via a peptide linker have been developed that selectively binds to PCa cells. However, there are very few reports that examine the effects of chemical modifications in the peptide linker of an imaging probe on its affinity to PSMA protein. This report systematically investigates the impact of hydrophobic aromatic moieties in the peptide linker on PSMA affinity and in vitro performance. For this, a series of fluorescent bioconjugates 12-17 with different aromatic spacers were designed, synthesized, and their interactions within the PSMA pocket were first analysed in silico. Cell uptake studies were then performed for 12-17 in PSMA+ cell lines and 3D tumour models in vitro. Binding affinity values of 12-17 were found to be in the range of 36 to 157.9 nM, and 12 with three aromatic groups in the spacer exhibit highest affinity (KD = 36 nM) compared to 17 which is devoid of aromatic groups. These studies suggest that aromatic groups in the spacer region can significantly affect deep tissue imaging of fluorescent bioconjugates. Bioconjugate 12 can be a promising diagnostic tool, and conjugation to near-infrared agents would further its applications in deep-tissue imaging and surgery. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mena Asha Krishnan
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, India
| | - Amit Pandit
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, India
| | - Rajesh Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, Devi Ahilya University, Indore, India
| | - Venkatesh Chelvam
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, India.,Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, India
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16
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MicroRNA-34a, Prostate Cancer Stem Cells, and Therapeutic Development. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184538. [PMID: 36139695 PMCID: PMC9497236 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a highly heterogeneous disease and typically presents with multiple distinct cancer foci. Heterogeneity in androgen receptor (AR) expression levels in PCa has been observed for decades, from untreated tumors to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) to disseminated metastases. Current standard-of-care therapies for metastatic CRPC can only extend life by a few months. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are defined as a subpopulation of cancer cells that exists in almost all treatment-naive tumors. Additionally, non-CSCs may undergo cellular plasticity to be reprogrammed to prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs) during spontaneous tumor progression or upon therapeutic treatments. Consequently, PCSCs may become the predominant population in treatment-resistant tumors, and the "root cause" for drug resistance. microRNA-34a (miR-34a) is a bona fide tumor-suppressive miRNA, and its expression is dysregulated in PCa. Importantly, miR-34a functions as a potent CSC suppressor by targeting many molecules essential for CSC survival and functions, which makes it a promising anti-PCSC therapeutic. Here, we conducted a comprehensive literature survey of miR-34a in the context of PCa and especially PCSCs. We provided an updated overview on the mechanisms of miR-34a regulation followed by discussing its tumor suppressive functions in PCa. Finally, based on current advances in miR-34a preclinical studies in PCa, we offered potential delivery strategies for miR-34a-based therapeutics for treating advanced PCa.
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17
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Zyk NY, Ber AP, Nimenko EA, Shafikov RR, Evteev SA, Petrov SA, Uspenskaya AA, Dashkova NS, Ivanenkov YA, Skvortsov DA, Beloglazkina EK, Majouga AG, Machulkin AE. Synthesis and initial in vitro evaluation of PSMA-targeting ligands with a modified aromatic moiety at the lysine ε-nitrogen atom. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2022; 71:128840. [PMID: 35661685 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2022.128840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We report an improved series of ligands targeting prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA). The new compounds were designed by the introduction of changes in the structure of the aromatic fragment at ε-nitrogen atom of lysine that resulted in improved biological parameters. Some of them demonstrated high selectivity and nanomolar IC50 values. We synthesized and tested two conjugates with a fluorescent label Sulfo-Cy5 as an example of the use of the obtained PSMA inhibitors as a basis for the creation of diagnostic preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolai Y Zyk
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation.
| | - Anton P Ber
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Ekaterina A Nimenko
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Radik R Shafikov
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation; Shemyakin and Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Russian Academy of Sciences, GSP-7, Ulitsa Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, Moscow 117997, Russian Federation
| | - Sergei A Evteev
- The Federal State Unitary Enterprise Dukhov Automatics Research Institute, Moscow, 127055, Russia
| | - Stanislav A Petrov
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Anastasia A Uspenskaya
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Natalia S Dashkova
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Yan A Ivanenkov
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation; The Federal State Unitary Enterprise Dukhov Automatics Research Institute, Moscow, 127055, Russia
| | - Dmitry A Skvortsov
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Elena K Beloglazkina
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander G Majouga
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation; Dmitry Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia, Miusskaya Sq. 9, Moscow 125047, Russian Federation
| | - Aleksei E Machulkin
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chemistry Dept., Leninskie Gory, Building 1/3, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation; RUDN University, Miklukho-Maklaya Str. 6, Moscow 117198, Russian Federation
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18
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In vivo therapeutic effects of small molecule-drug conjugates enhanced by Fc grafting. Biomaterials 2022; 290:121820. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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19
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Blocking Studies to Evaluate Receptor-Specific Radioligand Binding in the CAM Model by PET and MR Imaging. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163870. [PMID: 36010864 PMCID: PMC9406147 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In the development of new targeted radiopharmaceuticals, it is mandatory to demonstrate their target-specific binding. Rodents are still primarily used for these experiments. With respect to the 3Rs principles, the demand for alternative methods to reduce the number of animal experiments is continuously increasing. In the present study, we investigated whether radiotracer uptake specificity can be evaluated by blocking studies in the CAM model. PET and MR imaging were used to visualize and quantify ligand accumulation. It was demonstrated that the CAM model could be used to evaluate the target-specific binding of a radiopharmaceutical. Due to intrinsic limitations of the CAM model, animal testing will still be required at more advanced stages of compound development. Still, the CAM model could significantly reduce the number of experiments through early compound pre-selection. Abstract Inhibition studies in small animals are the standard for evaluating the specificity of newly developed drugs, including radiopharmaceuticals. Recently, it has been reported that the tumor accumulation of radiotracers can be assessed in the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model with similar results to experiments in mice, such contributing to the 3Rs principles (reduction, replacement, and refinement). However, inhibition studies to prove receptor-specific binding have not yet been performed in the CAM model. Thus, in the present work, we analyzed the feasibility of inhibition studies in ovo by PET and MRI using the PSMA-specific ligand [18F]siPSMA-14 and the corresponding inhibitor 2-PMPA. A dose-dependent blockade of [18F]siPSMA-14 uptake was successfully demonstrated by pre-dosing with different inhibitor concentrations. Based on these data, we conclude that the CAM model is suitable for performing inhibition studies to detect receptor-specific binding. While in the later stages of development of novel radiopharmaceuticals, testing in rodents will still be necessary for biodistribution analysis, the CAM model is a promising alternative to mouse experiments in the early phases of compound evaluation. Thus, using the CAM model and PET and MR imaging for early pre-selection of promising radiolabeled compounds could significantly reduce the number of animal experiments.
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An S, Huang G, Liu J, Wei W. PSMA-targeted theranostics of solid tumors: applications beyond prostate cancers. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2022; 49:3973-3976. [PMID: 35916921 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-022-05905-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shuxian An
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Gang Huang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Weijun Wei
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China.
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21
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Hu Y, Chen D, Napoleon JV, Srinivasarao M, Singhal S, Savran CA, Low PS. Efficient capture of circulating tumor cells with low molecular weight folate receptor-specific ligands. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8555. [PMID: 35595733 PMCID: PMC9122947 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12118-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Retrieval of circulating tumor cells (CTC) has proven valuable for assessing a patient's cancer burden, evaluating response to therapy, and analyzing which drug might treat a cancer best. Although most isolation methods retrieve CTCs based on size, shape, or capture by tumor-specific antibodies, we explore here the use of small molecule tumor-specific ligands linked to magnetic beads for CTC capture. We have designed folic acid-biotin conjugates with different linkers for the capture of folate receptor (FR) + tumor cells spiked into whole blood, and application of the same technology to isolate FR + CTCs from the peripheral blood of both tumor-bearing mice and non-small cell lung patients. We demonstrate that folic acid linked via a rigid linker to a flexible PEG spacer that is in turn tethered to a magnetic bead enables optimal CTC retrieval, reaching nearly 100% capture when 100 cancer cells are spiked into 1 mL of aqueous buffer and ~ 90% capture when the same quantity of cells is diluted into whole blood. In a live animal model, the same methodology is shown to efficiently retrieve CTCs from tumor-bearing mice, yielding cancer cell counts that are proportional to total tumor burden. More importantly, the same method is shown to collect ~ 29 CTCs/8 mL peripheral blood from patients with non-small cell lung cancer. Since the ligand-presentation strategy optimized here should also prove useful in targeting other nanoparticles to other cells, the methods described below should have general applicability in the design of nanoparticles for cell-specific targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingwen Hu
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue Center for Cancer Research, Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, 720 Clinic Drive, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Danyang Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue Center for Cancer Research, Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, 720 Clinic Drive, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - John V Napoleon
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue Center for Cancer Research, Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, 720 Clinic Drive, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Madduri Srinivasarao
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue Center for Cancer Research, Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, 720 Clinic Drive, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Sunil Singhal
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Cagri A Savran
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, 1205 W. State St., West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Philip S Low
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue Center for Cancer Research, Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, 720 Clinic Drive, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA.
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22
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Brunello S, Salvarese N, Carpanese D, Gobbi C, Melendez-Alafort L, Bolzati C. A Review on the Current State and Future Perspectives of [ 99mTc]Tc-Housed PSMA-i in Prostate Cancer. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27092617. [PMID: 35565970 PMCID: PMC9099988 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) has gained momentum in tumor nuclear molecular imaging as an excellent target for both the diagnosis and therapy of prostate cancer. Since 2008, after years of preclinical research efforts, a plentitude of radiolabeled compounds mainly based on low molecular weight PSMA inhibitors (PSMA-i) have been described for imaging and theranostic applications, and some of them have been transferred to the clinic. Most of these compounds include radiometals (e.g., 68Ga, 64Cu, 177Lu) for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging or endoradiotherapy. Nowadays, although the development of new PET tracers has caused a significant drop in single-photon emission tomography (SPECT) research programs and the development of new technetium-99m (99mTc) tracers is rare, this radionuclide remains the best atom for SPECT imaging owing to its ideal physical decay properties, convenient availability, and rich and versatile coordination chemistry. Indeed, 99mTc still plays a relevant role in diagnostic nuclear medicine, as the number of clinical examinations based on 99mTc outscores that of PET agents and 99mTc-PSMA SPECT/CT may be a cost-effective alternative for 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT. This review aims to give an overview of the specific features of the developed [99mTc]Tc-tagged PSMA agents with particular attention to [99mTc]Tc-PSMA-i. The chemical and pharmacological properties of the latter will be compared and discussed, highlighting the pros and cons with respect to [68Ga]Ga-PSMA11.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Brunello
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35127 Padova, Italy; (S.B.); (N.S.)
| | - Nicola Salvarese
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35127 Padova, Italy; (S.B.); (N.S.)
| | - Debora Carpanese
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Via Gattamelata 64, 35124 Padova, Italy;
| | - Carolina Gobbi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Laura Melendez-Alafort
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Via Gattamelata 64, 35124 Padova, Italy;
- Correspondence: (L.M.-A.); (C.B.)
| | - Cristina Bolzati
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35127 Padova, Italy; (S.B.); (N.S.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.-A.); (C.B.)
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23
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Kennedy GT, Azari FS, Bernstein E, Nadeem B, Chang AE, Segil A, Sullivan N, Marfatia I, Din A, Desphande C, Kucharczuk JC, Low PS, Singhal S. A Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen-Targeted Near-Infrared Conjugate for Identifying Pulmonary Squamous Cell Carcinoma during Resection. Mol Cancer Ther 2022; 21:546-554. [PMID: 35149546 PMCID: PMC8983600 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common lung cancer subtype and has a low 5-year survival rate at 17.6%. Complete resection with negative margins can be curative, but a high number of patients suffer early postoperative recurrence due to inadequate disease clearance at the index operation. Intraoperative molecular imaging (IMI) with tumor-targeted optical contrast agents is effective in improving resection completeness for other tumor types, but there are no IMI tracers targeted to pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma. In this report, we describe the use of a novel prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted near-infrared conjugate (OTL78) to identify pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma. We identified PSMA as a viable target by examining its expression in human lung tumor specimens from a surgical cohort. Ninety-four percent of tumors expressed PSMA in either the pulmonary squamous cells or the tumor neovasculature. Using in vitro and in vivo models, we found that OTL78 reliably localized pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma in a PSMA-dependent manner. Finally, we found that IMI with OTL78 markedly improved surgeons' ability to identify residual disease after surgery in a preclinical model. Ultimately, this novel optical tracer may aid surgical resection of pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma and potentially improve long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory T Kennedy
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Feredun S Azari
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Elizabeth Bernstein
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Bilal Nadeem
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ashley E Chang
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Alix Segil
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Neil Sullivan
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Isvita Marfatia
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Azra Din
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Charuhas Desphande
- Department of Pathology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - John C Kucharczuk
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Philip S Low
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Sunil Singhal
- Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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24
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PSMA-Targeting Imaging and Theranostic Agents-Current Status and Future Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031158. [PMID: 35163083 PMCID: PMC8835702 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past two decades, extensive efforts have been made to develop agents targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) for prostate cancer imaging and therapy. To date, represented by two recent approvals of [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 and [18F]F-DCFPyL by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US-FDA) for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to identify suspected metastases or recurrence in patients with prostate cancer, PSMA-targeting imaging and theranostic agents derived from small molecule PSMA inhibitors have advanced to clinical practice and trials of prostate cancer. The focus of current development of new PSMA-targeting agents has thus shifted to the improvement of in vivo pharmacokinetics and higher specific binding affinity with the aims to further increase the detection sensitivity and specificity and minimize the toxicity to non-target tissues, particularly the kidneys. The main strategies involve systematic chemical modifications of the linkage between the targeting moiety and imaging/therapy payloads. In addition to a summary of the development history of PSMA-targeting agents, this review provides an overview of current advances and future promise of PSMA-targeted imaging and theranostics with focuses on the structural determinants of the chemical modification towards the next generation of PSMA-targeting agents.
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25
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Cushman M. Design and Synthesis of Indenoisoquinolines Targeting Topoisomerase I and Other Biological Macromolecules for Cancer Chemotherapy. J Med Chem 2021; 64:17572-17600. [PMID: 34879200 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The discovery that certain indenoisoquinolines inhibit the religation reaction of DNA in the topoisomerase I-DNA-indenoisoquinoline ternary complex led to a structure-based drug design research program which resulted in three representatives that entered Phase I clinical trials in cancer patients at the National Cancer Institute. This has stimulated a great deal of interest in the design and execution of new synthetic pathways for indenoisoquinoline production. More recently, modulation of the substitution pattern and chemical nature of substituents on the indenoisoquinoline scaffold has resulted in a widening scope of additional biological targets, including RXR, PARP-1, MYC promoter G-quadruplex, topoisomerase II, estrogen receptor, VEGFR-2, HIF-1α, and tyrosyl DNA phosphodiesterases 1 and 2. Furthermore, convincing evidence has been advanced supporting the potential use of indenoisoquinolines for the treatment of diseases other than cancer. The rapidly expanding indenoisoquinoline knowledge base has provided a firm foundation for further advancements in indenoisoquinoline chemistry, pharmacology, and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Cushman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
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26
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Vaughn BA, Loveless CS, Cingoranelli SJ, Schlyer D, Lapi SE, Boros E. Evaluation of 177Lu and 47Sc Picaga-Linked, Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen-Targeting Constructs for Their Radiotherapeutic Efficacy and Dosimetry. Mol Pharm 2021; 18:4511-4519. [PMID: 34714082 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.1c00711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Lu-177-based, targeted radiotherapeutics/endoradiotherapies are an emerging clinical tool for the management of various cancers. The chelator 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) remains the workhorse for such applications but can limit apparent molar activity or efficient charge modulation, which can impact target binding and, as a consequence, target efficacy. Previously, our lab had developed the small, rare earth selective bifunctional chelator, picaga, as an efficient bifunctional chelator for scandium and lutetium isotopes. Here, we assess the performance of these constructs for therapy in prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-expressing tumor xenografts. To assess the viability of picaga conjugates in conjunction with long in vivo circulation, a picaga conjugate functionalized with a serum albumin binding moiety, 177Lu-picaga-Alb53-PSMA, was also synthesized. A directly comparative, low, single 3.7 MBq dose treatment study with Lu-PSMA-617 was conducted. Treatment with 177Lu-picaga-Alb53-PSMA resulted in tumor regression and lengthened median survival (54 days) when compared with the vehicle (16 days), 47Sc-picaga-DUPA-, 177Lu-picaga-DUPA-, and 177Lu-PSMA-617-treated cohorts (21, 23, and 21 days, respectively).
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett A Vaughn
- Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, New York 11794, United States
| | - C Shaun Loveless
- Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294, United States
| | - Shelbie J Cingoranelli
- Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294, United States
| | - David Schlyer
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York 11973, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York 11794, United States
| | - Suzanne E Lapi
- Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294, United States
| | - Eszter Boros
- Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, New York 11794, United States
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27
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Bassi G, Favalli N, Pellegrino C, Onda Y, Scheuermann J, Cazzamalli S, Manz MG, Neri D. Specific Inhibitor of Placental Alkaline Phosphatase Isolated from a DNA-Encoded Chemical Library Targets Tumor of the Female Reproductive Tract. J Med Chem 2021; 64:15799-15809. [PMID: 34709820 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) is an abundant surface antigen in the malignancies of the female reproductive tract. Nevertheless, the discovery of PLAP-specific small organic ligands for targeting applications has been hindered by ligand cross-reactivity with the ubiquitous tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP). In this study, we used DNA-encoded chemical libraries to discover a potent (IC50 = 32 nM) and selective PLAP inhibitor, with no detectable inhibition of TNAP activity. Subsequently, the PLAP ligand was conjugated to fluorescein; it specifically bound to PLAP-positive tumors in vitro and targeted cervical cancer in vivo in a mouse model of the disease. Ultimately, the fluorescent derivative of the PLAP inhibitor functioned as a bispecific engager redirecting the killing of chimeric antigen receptor-T cells specific to fluorescein on PLAP-positive tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Bassi
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Nicholas Favalli
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Pellegrino
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland.,Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Zürich and University of Zürich, Rämistrasse 100, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Yuichi Onda
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Scheuermann
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Markus G Manz
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Zürich and University of Zürich, Rämistrasse 100, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Dario Neri
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich), Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
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28
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Li H, Luo D, Yuan C, Wang X, Wang J, Basilion JP, Meade TJ. Magnetic Resonance Imaging of PSMA-Positive Prostate Cancer by a Targeted and Activatable Gd(III) MR Contrast Agent. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:17097-17108. [PMID: 34612645 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c07377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is a transmembrane protein that is highly expressed in aggressive prostate cancer (PCa) and has been extensively studied as a PCa diagnostic imaging biomarker. Multiple imaging modalities have exploited PSMA as a biomarker including magnetic resonance (MR), Optical, and PET imaging. Of all the imaging MR imaging provides the most detailed information, concurrently providing anatomical, functional, and potentially molecular information. However, the lower sensitivity of MR requires development of molecular MR contrast agents that provides high signal-to-noise ratios. Herein, we report the first targeted and activatable Gd(III)-based MR contrast agents prostate cancer probe 1 and 2 (PCP-1 and -2). We successfully used PCP-2 to differentiate between PSMA+ and PSMA- prostate cancer cells with both in vitro fluorescence imaging and in vivo MR imaging. The in vivo MR imaging results were further supported by ex vivo fluorescence imaging studies, showcasing the unique bimodal feature of PCP-2. Furthermore, PCP-2 highlights a unique molecular MR probe design strategy that improved the sensitivity of traditional biomarker-targeted MR imaging, addressing a critical unmet need in molecular MR imaging field. This work represents the first example of a targeted and activatable MR contrast agent that can be systemically administered in vivo to highlight PSMA+ prostate tumors, paving the way for the clinical translation of MR PSMA imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Departments of Chemistry; Molecular Biosciences; Neurobiology and Physiology; and Radiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Dong Luo
- Department of Radiology and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Chaonan Yuan
- Departments of Chemistry; Molecular Biosciences; Neurobiology and Physiology; and Radiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Xinning Wang
- Department of Radiology and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Radiology and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - James P Basilion
- Department of Radiology and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Thomas J Meade
- Departments of Chemistry; Molecular Biosciences; Neurobiology and Physiology; and Radiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
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29
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Al-Mansoori L, Elsinga P, Goda SK. Bio-vehicles of cytotoxic drugs for delivery to tumor specific targets for cancer precision therapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 144:112260. [PMID: 34607105 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal structural and molecular changes in malignant tissues were thoroughly investigated and utilized to target tumor cells, hence rescuing normal healthy tissues and lowering the unwanted side effects as non-specific cytotoxicity. Various ligands for cancer cell specific markers have been uncovered and inspected for directional delivery of the anti-cancer drug to the tumor site, in addition to diagnostic applications. Over the past few decades research related to the ligand targeted therapy (LTT) increased tremendously aiming to treat various pathologies, mainly cancers with well exclusive markers. Malignant tumors are known to induce elevated levels of a variety of proteins and peptides known as cancer "markers" as certain antigens (e.g., Prostate specific membrane antigen "PSMA", carcinoembryonic antigen "CEA"), receptors (folate receptor, somatostatin receptor), integrins (Integrin αvβ3) and cluster of differentiation molecules (CD13). The choice of an appropriate marker to be targeted and the design of effective ligand-drug conjugate all has to be carefully selected to generate the required therapeutic effect. Moreover, since some tumors express aberrantly high levels of more than one marker, some approaches investigated targeting cancer cells with more than one ligand (dual or multi targeting). We aim in this review to report an update on the cancer-specific receptors and the vehicles to deliver cytotoxic drugs, including recent advancements on nano delivery systems and their implementation in targeted cancer therapy. We will discuss the advantages and limitations facing this approach and possible solutions to mitigate these obstacles. To achieve the said aim a literature search in electronic data bases (PubMed and others) using keywords "Cancer specific receptors, cancer specific antibody, tumor specific peptide carriers, cancer overexpressed proteins, gold nanotechnology and gold nanoparticles in cancer treatment" was carried out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layla Al-Mansoori
- Qatar University, Biomedical Research Centre, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar.
| | - Philip Elsinga
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Sayed K Goda
- Cairo University, Faculty of Science, Giza, Egypt; University of Derby, College of Science and Engineering, Derby, UK.
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30
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Cao YJ, Yu C, Wu KL, Wang X, Liu D, Tian Z, Zhao L, Qi X, Loredo A, Chung A, Xiao H. Synthesis of precision antibody conjugates using proximity-induced chemistry. Theranostics 2021; 11:9107-9117. [PMID: 34522229 PMCID: PMC8419051 DOI: 10.7150/thno.62444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Therapeutic antibody conjugates allow for the specific delivery of cytotoxic agents or immune cells to tumors, thus enhancing the antitumor activity of these agents and minimizing adverse systemic effects. Most current antibody conjugates are prepared by nonspecific modification of antibody cysteine or lysine residues, inevitably resulting in the generation of heterogeneous conjugates with limited therapeutic efficacies. Traditional strategies to prepare homogeneous antibody conjugates require antibody engineering or chemical/enzymatic treatments, processes that often affect antibody folding and stability, as well as yield and cost. Developing a simple and cost-effective way to precisely couple functional payloads to native antibodies is of great importance. Methods: We describe a simple proximity-induced antibody conjugation method (pClick) that enables the synthesis of homogeneous antibody conjugates from native antibodies without requiring additional antibody engineering or post-synthesis treatments. A proximity-activated crosslinker is introduced into a chemically synthesized affinity peptide modified with a bioorthogonal handle. Upon binding to a specific antibody site, the affinity peptide covalently attaches to the antibody via spontaneous crosslinking, yielding an antibody molecule ready for bioorthogonal conjugation with payloads. Results: We have prepared well-defined antibody-drug conjugates and bispecific small molecule-antibody conjugates using pClick technology. The resulting conjugates exhibit excellent in vitro cytotoxic activity against cancer cells and, in the case of bispecific conjugates, superb antitumor activity in mouse xenograft models. Conclusions: Our pClick technology enables efficient, simple, and site-specific conjugation of various moieties to the existing native antibodies. This technology does not require antibody engineering or additional UV/chemical/enzymatic treatments, therefore providing a general, convenient strategy for developing novel antibody conjugates.
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31
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Comparison of Quantification of Target-Specific Accumulation of [ 18F]F-siPSMA-14 in the HET-CAM Model and in Mice Using PET/MRI. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164007. [PMID: 34439163 PMCID: PMC8393674 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Animal studies are essential for the development of new radiopharmaceuticals to determine specific accumulation and biodistribution. Alternative models, such as the HET-CAM model, offer the possibility of reducing animal experiments in accordance with the 3Rs principles. Accurate quantification of tumor accumulation of a PSMA-specific ligand in the HET-CAM model and comparison with corresponding animal experiments was performed using the imaging modalities PET and MRI. It was demonstrated that the HET-CAM model leads to comparable results and is suitable as an alternative to animal experiments for the initial assessment of target-specific binding of novel radiopharmaceuticals. However, as evaluation of biodistribution in ovo is still limited, further animal experiments with promising compounds are mandatory. Abstract Assessment of biodistribution and specific tumor accumulation is essential for the development of new radiopharmaceuticals and requires animal experiments. The HET-CAM (hens-egg test—chorioallantoic membrane) model can be used in combination with the non-invasive imaging modalities PET and MRI for pre-selection during radiopharmaceutical development to reduce the number of animal experiments required. Critical to the acceptance of this model is the demonstration of the quantifiability and reproducibility of these data compared to the standard animal model. Tumor accumulation and biodistribution of the PSMA-specific radiotracer [18F]F-siPSMA-14 was analyzed in the chick embryo and in an immunodeficient mouse model. Evaluation was based on MRI and PET data in both models. γ-counter measurements and histopathological analyses complemented these data. PSMA-specific accumulation of [18F]F-siPSMA-14 was successfully demonstrated in the HET-CAM model, similar to the results obtained by mouse model studies. The combination of MR and PET imaging allowed precise quantification of peptide accumulation, initial assessment of biodistribution, and accurate determination of tumor volume. Thus, the use of the HET-CAM model is suitable for the pre-selection of new radiopharmaceuticals and potentially reduces animal testing in line with the 3Rs principles of animal welfare.
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Lee SC, Ma JSY, Kim MS, Laborda E, Choi SH, Hampton EN, Yun H, Nunez V, Muldong MT, Wu CN, Ma W, Kulidjian AA, Kane CJ, Klyushnichenko V, Woods AK, Joseph SB, Petrassi M, Wisler J, Li J, Jamieson CAM, Schultz PG, Kim CH, Young TS. A PSMA-targeted bispecific antibody for prostate cancer driven by a small-molecule targeting ligand. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:7/33/eabi8193. [PMID: 34380625 PMCID: PMC8357232 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abi8193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite the development of next-generation antiandrogens, metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) remains incurable. Here, we describe a unique semisynthetic bispecific antibody that uses site-specific unnatural amino acid conjugation to combine the potency of a T cell-recruiting anti-CD3 antibody with the specificity of an imaging ligand (DUPA) for prostate-specific membrane antigen. This format enabled optimization of structure and function to produce a candidate (CCW702) with specific, potent in vitro cytotoxicity and improved stability compared with a bispecific single-chain variable fragment format. In vivo, CCW702 eliminated C4-2 xenografts with as few as three weekly subcutaneous doses and prevented growth of PCSD1 patient-derived xenograft tumors in mice. In cynomolgus monkeys, CCW702 was well tolerated up to 34.1 mg/kg per dose, with near-complete subcutaneous bioavailability and a PK profile supporting testing of a weekly dosing regimen in patients. CCW702 is being evaluated in a first in-human clinical trial for men with mCRPC who had progressed on prior therapies (NCT04077021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Chang Lee
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Jennifer S Y Ma
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Min Soo Kim
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Eduardo Laborda
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Sei-Hyun Choi
- Department of Chemistry and Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Eric N Hampton
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Hwayoung Yun
- Department of Chemistry and Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Vanessa Nunez
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Michelle T Muldong
- Department of Urology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Christina N Wu
- Department of Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Wenxue Ma
- Department of Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Anna A Kulidjian
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Scripps MD Anderson Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Christopher J Kane
- Department of Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Vadim Klyushnichenko
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Ashley K Woods
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Sean B Joseph
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Mike Petrassi
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - John Wisler
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Christina A M Jamieson
- Department of Urology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Peter G Schultz
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
- Department of Chemistry and Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Chan Hyuk Kim
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| | - Travis S Young
- Department of Biology, Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
- Department of Chemistry and Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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Abdelaal AM, Kasinski AL. Ligand-mediated delivery of RNAi-based therapeutics for the treatment of oncological diseases. NAR Cancer 2021; 3:zcab030. [PMID: 34316717 PMCID: PMC8291076 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcab030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi)-based therapeutics (miRNAs, siRNAs) have great potential for treating various human diseases through their ability to downregulate proteins associated with disease progression. However, the development of RNAi-based therapeutics is limited by lack of safe and specific delivery strategies. A great effort has been made to overcome some of these challenges resulting in development of N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) ligands that are being used for delivery of siRNAs for the treatment of diseases that affect the liver. The successes achieved using GalNAc-siRNAs have paved the way for developing RNAi-based delivery strategies that can target extrahepatic diseases including cancer. This includes targeting survival signals directly in the cancer cells and indirectly through targeting cancer-associated immunosuppressive cells. To achieve targeting specificity, RNAi molecules are being directly conjugated to a targeting ligand or being packaged into a delivery vehicle engineered to overexpress a targeting ligand on its surface. In both cases, the ligand binds to a cell surface receptor that is highly upregulated by the target cells, while not expressed, or expressed at low levels on normal cells. In this review, we summarize the most recent RNAi delivery strategies, including extracellular vesicles, that use a ligand-mediated approach for targeting various oncological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Abdelaal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Andrea L Kasinski
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
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Wang X, Luo D, Basilion JP. Photodynamic Therapy: Targeting Cancer Biomarkers for the Treatment of Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13122992. [PMID: 34203805 PMCID: PMC8232794 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment option that can kill cancerous cells by subjecting them to light irradiation at a specific wavelength. The main problem related to most photosensitizers is the lack of tumor selectivity, which leads to undesired uptake in normal tissues resulting in side effects. Passive targeting and active targeting are the two strategies to improve uptake in tumor tissues. This review focused on active targeting and summarizes recent active targeting approaches in which highly potent photosensitizers are rendered tumor-specific by means of an appended targeting moiety that interacts with a protein unique to, or at least significantly more abundant on, tumor cell surfaces compared to normal cells. Abstract Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a well-documented therapy that has emerged as an effective treatment modality of cancers. PDT utilizes harmless light to activate non- or minimally toxic photosensitizers to generate cytotoxic species for malignant cell eradication. Compared with conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy, PDT is appealing by virtue of the minimal invasiveness, its safety, as well as its selectivity, and the fact that it can induce an immune response. Although local illumination of the cancer lesions renders intrinsic selectivity of PDT, most photosensitizers used in PDT do not display significant tumor tissue selectivity. There is a need for targeted delivery of photosensitizers. The molecular identification of cancer antigens has opened new possibilities for the development of effective targeted therapy for cancer patients. This review provides a brief overview of recent achievements of targeted delivery of photosensitizers to cancer cells by targeting well-established cancer biomarkers. Overall, targeted PDT offers enhanced intracellular accumulation of the photosensitizer, leading to improved PDT efficacy and reduced toxicity to normal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinning Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Ave, Wearn Building B-49, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Correspondence: (X.W.); (J.P.B.); Tel.: +216-844-4848 (X.W.); +216-983-3246 (J.P.B.); Fax: +216-844-4987 (X.W. & J.P.B.)
| | - Dong Luo
- Department of Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Ave, Wearn Building B-44, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
| | - James P. Basilion
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Ave, Wearn Building B-49, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Ave, Wearn Building B-44, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Correspondence: (X.W.); (J.P.B.); Tel.: +216-844-4848 (X.W.); +216-983-3246 (J.P.B.); Fax: +216-844-4987 (X.W. & J.P.B.)
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Rana A, Bhatnagar S. Advancements in folate receptor targeting for anti-cancer therapy: A small molecule-drug conjugate approach. Bioorg Chem 2021; 112:104946. [PMID: 33989916 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.104946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Targeted delivery combined with controlled release of drugs has a crucial role in future of personalized medicine. The majority of cancer drugs are intended to interfere with one or more cellular events. Anticancer agents can also be toxic to healthy cells, as healthy cells may also need to proliferate and avoid apoptosis. The focus of this review covers the principles, advantages, drawbacks and summarize criteria that must be met for design of small molecule-drug conjugates (SMDCs) to achieve the desired therapeutic potency with minimal toxicity. SMDCs are composed of a targeting ligand, a releasable bridge, a spacer, and a therapeutic payload. We summarize the criteria for the effective design that influences the selection of tumor specific receptor and optimum elements in the design of SMDCs. We also discuss the criteria for selecting the optimal therapeutic drug payload, spacer and linker. The linker chemistries and cleavage strategies are also discussed. Finally, we review the folate receptor targeting SMDCs that are in preclinical development and in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhilash Rana
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Sector125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Seema Bhatnagar
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Sector125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Krishnan MA, Chelvam V. Developing μSpherePlatform Using a Commercial Hairbrush: An Agarose 3D Culture Platform for Deep-Tissue Imaging of Prostate Cancer. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2021; 4:4254-4270. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.1c00086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mena A. Krishnan
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Khandwa Road, Simrol, Indore 453 552, India
| | - Venkatesh Chelvam
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Khandwa Road, Simrol, Indore 453 552, India
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Khandwa Road, Simrol, Indore 453 552, India
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Gallo F, Korsak B, Müller C, Hechler T, Yanakieva D, Avrutina O, Kolmar H, Pahl A. Enhancing the Pharmacokinetics and Antitumor Activity of an α-Amanitin-Based Small-Molecule Drug Conjugate via Conjugation with an Fc Domain. J Med Chem 2021; 64:4117-4129. [PMID: 33755471 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Herein we describe the design and biological evaluation of a novel antitumor therapeutic platform that combines the most favorable properties of small-molecule drug conjugates (SMDCs) and antibody drug conjugates (ADCs). Although the small size of SMDCs, compared to ADCs, is an appealing feature for their application in the treatment of solid tumors, SMDCs usually suffer from poor pharmacokinetics, which severely limits their therapeutic efficacy. To overcome this limitation, in this proof-of-concept study we grafted an α-amanitin-based SMDC that targets prostate cancer cells onto an immunoglobulin Fc domain via a two-step "program and arm" chemoenzymatic strategy. We demonstrated the superior pharmacokinetic properties and therapeutic efficacy of the resulting Fc-SMDC over the SMDC in a prostate cancer xenograft mouse model. This approach may provide a general strategy toward effective antitumor therapeutics combining small size with pharmacokinetic properties close to those of an ADC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gallo
- Heidelberg Pharma Research GmbH, Heidelberg Pharma AG, Schriesheimer Str. 101, 68526 Ladenburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Korsak
- Heidelberg Pharma Research GmbH, Heidelberg Pharma AG, Schriesheimer Str. 101, 68526 Ladenburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Müller
- Heidelberg Pharma Research GmbH, Heidelberg Pharma AG, Schriesheimer Str. 101, 68526 Ladenburg, Germany
| | - Torsten Hechler
- Heidelberg Pharma Research GmbH, Heidelberg Pharma AG, Schriesheimer Str. 101, 68526 Ladenburg, Germany
| | - Desislava Yanakieva
- Department of Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Straße 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Olga Avrutina
- Department of Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Straße 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Department of Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Straße 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Andreas Pahl
- Heidelberg Pharma Research GmbH, Heidelberg Pharma AG, Schriesheimer Str. 101, 68526 Ladenburg, Germany
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Boinapally S, Ahn HH, Cheng B, Brummet M, Nam H, Gabrielson KL, Banerjee SR, Minn I, Pomper MG. A prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted prodrug with a favorable in vivo toxicity profile. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7114. [PMID: 33782486 PMCID: PMC8007718 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86551-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is a promising target for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer (PC) and various solid tumors. Although PSMA-targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy (RPT) has enabled significant imaging and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) responses, accumulating clinical data are beginning to reveal certain limitations, including a subgroup of non-responders, relapse, radiation-induced toxicity, and the need for specialized facilities for its administration. To date non-radioactive attempts to leverage PSMA to treat PC with antibodies, nanomedicines or cell-based therapies have met with modest success. We developed a non-radioactive prodrug, SBPD-1, composed of a small-molecule PSMA-targeting moiety, a cancer-selective cleavable linker, and the microtubule inhibitor monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE). SBPD-1 demonstrated high binding affinity to PSMA (Ki = 8.84 nM) and selective cytotoxicity to PSMA-expressing PC cell lines (IC50 = 3.90 nM). SBPD-1 demonstrated a significant survival benefit in two murine models of human PC relative to controls. The highest dose tested did not induce toxicity in immunocompetent mice. The high specific targeting ability of SBPD-1 to PSMA-expressing tumors and its favorable toxicity profile warrant its further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanth Boinapally
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hye-Hyun Ahn
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bei Cheng
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mary Brummet
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hwanhee Nam
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kathleen L Gabrielson
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sangeeta R Banerjee
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Il Minn
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Martin G Pomper
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Asha Krishnan M, Yadav K, Roach P, Chelvam V. A targeted near-infrared nanoprobe for deep-tissue penetration and imaging of prostate cancer. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:2295-2312. [PMID: 33554988 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm01970d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The current challenge in fluorescence guided surgery (FGS) for prostate cancer (PCa) is in the design of imaging probes with high selectivity, clear visualization of tumour margins, and minimal toxicity. This report aims to design and develop a novel NIR-nanoprobe, and evaluate its potential in the penetration of PCa tumour tissues. The PSMA receptor-targeted quantum dot (PSMA-QD655) is a NIR, deep-tissue imaging agent, which has the potential for intraoperative navigation during surgery and improved detection specificity for PCa. The probe was designed and synthesized by conjugating functionalized amino-PEG quantum dots (QDs) through a heterobifunctional linker to a DUPA targeted polypeptide construct. The nanoprobe was evaluated in vitro in PSMA+ PCa cell lines for specificity and its binding affinity was determined by flow cytometric analysis. The penetration efficacy was tested further on large PCa 3D tumour spheroids (dia ∼1200 μm, thickness ∼450 μm) by deep tissue multiphoton imaging. PSMA-QD655 was found to be an efficient deep tissue intra-operative guided surgical tool with a high affinity (KD = 15.3 nM) and penetrative capacity. The results have been demonstrated in vitro in 2D and 3D tissue models, mimicking cancer lesions in vivo. In summary, we have developed a deep-tissue imaging NIR nanoprobe targeting prostatic lesions that (i) binds to PSMA+ tumour with sub-nanomolar affinity and high specificity, (ii) shows an excellent safety profile in primary cell lines in vitro and (iii) shows high penetrative capacity in a 3D prostate tumour model (∼450 μm tissue depth).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mena Asha Krishnan
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore 453 552, India.
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Small Molecule-Based Prodrug Targeting Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen for the Treatment of Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030417. [PMID: 33499427 PMCID: PMC7865627 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer poses a serious clinical problem with poor outcomes and remains a deadly disease. New targeted treatment options are urgently needed. PSMA is highly expressed in prostate cancer and has been an attractive biomarker for the treatment of prostate cancer. In this study, we explored the feasibility of targeted delivery of an antimitotic drug, monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), to tumor tissue using a small-molecule based PSMA lig-and. With the aid of Cy5.5, we found that a cleavable linker is vital for the antitumor activity of the ligand-drug conjugate and have developed a new PSMA-targeting prodrug, PSMA-1-VcMMAE. In in vitro studies, PSMA-1-VcMMAE was 48-fold more potent in killing PSMA-positive PC3pip cells than killing PSMA-negative PC3flu cells. In in vivo studies, PSMA-1-VcMMAE significantly inhibited tumor growth leading to prolonged animal survival in different animal models, including metastatic prostate cancer models. Compared to anti-PSMA antibody-MMAE conjugate (PSMA-ADC) and MMAE, PSMA-1-VcMMAE had over a 10-fold improved maximum tolerated dose, resulting in improved therapeutic index. The small molecule-drug conjugates reported here can be easily synthesized and are more cost efficient than anti-body-drug conjugates. The therapeutic profile of the PSMA-1-VcMMAE encourages further clin-ical development for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer.
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Patel TK, Adhikari N, Amin SA, Biswas S, Jha T, Ghosh B. Small molecule drug conjugates (SMDCs): an emerging strategy for anticancer drug design and discovery. NEW J CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1039/d0nj04134c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Mechanisms of how SMDCs work. Small molecule drugs are conjugated with the targeted ligand using pH sensitive linkers which allow the drug molecule to get released at lower lysosomal pH. It helps to accumulate the chemotherapeutic agents to be localized in the tumor environment upon cleaving of the pH-labile bonds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarun Kumar Patel
- Epigenetic Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy
- BITS-Pilani
- Hyderabad
- India
| | - Nilanjan Adhikari
- Natural Science Laboratory
- Division of Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology
- Jadavpur University
- Kolkata 700032
| | - Sk. Abdul Amin
- Natural Science Laboratory
- Division of Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology
- Jadavpur University
- Kolkata 700032
| | - Swati Biswas
- Epigenetic Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy
- BITS-Pilani
- Hyderabad
- India
| | - Tarun Jha
- Natural Science Laboratory
- Division of Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology
- Jadavpur University
- Kolkata 700032
| | - Balaram Ghosh
- Epigenetic Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy
- BITS-Pilani
- Hyderabad
- India
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Enzyme-responsive polymeric micelles of cabazitaxel for prostate cancer targeted therapy. Acta Biomater 2020; 113:501-511. [PMID: 32562805 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Cabazitaxel, a novel tubulin inhibitor with poor affinity for P-glycoprotein, is a second-generation taxane holding great promise for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. However, its poor solubility and lack of target-ability limit its therapeutic applications. Herein, we develop a biodegradable, enzyme-responsive, and targeted polymeric micelle for cabazitaxel. The micelle is formed from two amphiphilic block copolymers. The first block copolymer consists of PEG, an enzyme-responsive peptide, and cholesterol; whereas the second block copolymer consists of a targeting ligand, PEG and cholesterol. The enzyme-responsive peptide is cleavable in the presence of matrixmetaloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), which is overexpressed in the tumor microenvironment of prostate cancer. The micelle showed a very low critical micelle concentration (CMC), high drug loading, and high entrapment efficiency. Release of cabazitaxel from the micelle is dependent on the cleavage of the enzyme-responsive peptide. Moreover, the micelle showed dramatically higher cellular uptake in prostate cancer cells compared to free cabazitaxel. Importantly, the ligand-coupled polymeric micelle demonstrated better inhibition of tumor growth in mice bearing prostate cancer xenografts compared to unmodified micelle and free cabazitaxel. Taken together, these findings suggest that the enzyme-responsive cabazitaxel micelle is a potent and promising drug delivery system for advanced prostate cancer therapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Herein, we develop a biodegradable, enzyme-responsive, and actively targeted polymer micelle for cabazitaxel, which is a novel tubulin inhibitor with poor affinity for P-glycoprotein. Despite cabazitaxel's great promise for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, its poor solubility, lack of target-ability, and high systemic toxicity limit its therapeutic applications, and therefore a targeted delivery system is highly needed for cabazitaxel. Our results demonstrate the importance of active targeting in targeted prostate cancer therapy. Encapsulating cabazitaxel in the micelle increases its activity and is expected to reduce its systemic toxicity, which is a major hurdle in its clinical applications. Moreover, the polymeric micelle may servers as a promising nanoscale platform for the targeted delivery of other chemotherapeutic agents to prostate cancer.
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Winter G, Koch ABF, Löffler J, Lindén M, Solbach C, Abaei A, Li H, Glatting G, Beer AJ, Rasche V. Multi-Modal PET and MR Imaging in the Hen's Egg Test-Chorioallantoic Membrane (HET-CAM) Model for Initial in Vivo Testing of Target-Specific Radioligands. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12051248. [PMID: 32429233 PMCID: PMC7281765 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12051248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The validation of novel target-specific radioligands requires animal experiments mostly using mice with xenografts. A pre-selection based on a simpler in vivo model would allow to reduce the number of animal experiments, in accordance with the 3Rs principles (reduction, replacement, refinement). In this respect, the chick embryo or hen’s egg test–chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) model is of special interest, as it is not considered an animal until day 17. Thus, we evaluated the feasibility of quantitative analysis of target-specific radiotracer accumulation in xenografts using the HET-CAM model and combined positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). For proof-of-principle we used established prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-positive and PSMA-negative prostate cancer xenografts and the clinically widely used PSMA-specific PET-tracer [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11. Tracer accumulation was quantified by PET and tumor volumes measured with MRI (n = 42). Moreover, gamma-counter analysis of radiotracer accumulation was done ex-vivo. A three- to five-fold higher ligand accumulation in the PSMA-positive tumors compared to the PSMA-negative tumors was demonstrated. This proof-of-principle study shows the general feasibility of the HET-CAM xenograft model for target-specific imaging with PET and MRI. The ultimate value for characterization of novel target-specific radioligands now has to be validated in comparison to mouse xenograft experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon Winter
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.B.F.K.); (J.L.); (C.S.); (A.J.B.)
- Correspondence: (G.W.); (V.R.); Tel.: +49-731-500-61364 (G.W.); +49-731-500-45014 (V.R.)
| | - Andrea B. F. Koch
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.B.F.K.); (J.L.); (C.S.); (A.J.B.)
| | - Jessica Löffler
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.B.F.K.); (J.L.); (C.S.); (A.J.B.)
- Core Facility Small Animal Imaging, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.A.); (H.L.)
| | - Mika Lindén
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry II, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany;
| | - Christoph Solbach
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.B.F.K.); (J.L.); (C.S.); (A.J.B.)
| | - Alireza Abaei
- Core Facility Small Animal Imaging, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.A.); (H.L.)
| | - Hao Li
- Core Facility Small Animal Imaging, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.A.); (H.L.)
| | - Gerhard Glatting
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical Radiation Physics, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany;
| | - Ambros J. Beer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.B.F.K.); (J.L.); (C.S.); (A.J.B.)
| | - Volker Rasche
- Core Facility Small Animal Imaging, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.A.); (H.L.)
- Internal Medicine II, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Correspondence: (G.W.); (V.R.); Tel.: +49-731-500-61364 (G.W.); +49-731-500-45014 (V.R.)
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Wu J, Lee HJ, You L, Luo X, Hasegawa T, Huang KC, Lin P, Ratliff T, Ashizawa M, Mei J, Cheng JX. Functionalized NIR-II Semiconducting Polymer Nanoparticles for Single-cell to Whole-Organ Imaging of PSMA-Positive Prostate Cancer. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2020; 16:e2001215. [PMID: 32307923 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202001215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Development of molecular probes holds great promise for early diagnosis of aggressive prostate cancer. Here, 2-[3-(1,3-dicarboxypropyl) ureido] pentanedioic acid (DUPA)-conjugated ligand and bis-isoindigo-based polymer (BTII) are synthesized to formulate semiconducting polymer nanoparticles (BTII-DUPA SPN) as a prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted probe for prostate cancer imaging in the NIR-II window. Insights into the interaction of the imaging probes with the biological targets from single cell to whole organ are obtained by transient absorption (TA) microscopy and photoacoustic (PA) tomography. At single-cell level, TA microscopy reveals the targeting efficiency, kinetics, and specificity of BTII-DUPA SPN to PSMA-positive prostate cancer. At organ level, PA tomographic imaging of BTII-DUPA SPN in the NIR-II window demonstrates superior imaging depth and contrast. By intravenous administration, BTII-DUPA SPN demonstrates selective accumulation and retention in the PSMA-positive tumor, allowing noninvasive PA detection of PSMA overexpressing prostate tumors in vivo. The distribution of nanoparticles inside the tumor tissue is further analyzed through TA microscopy. These results collectively demonstrate BTII-DUPA SPN as a promising probe for prostate cancer diagnosis by PA tomography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayingzi Wu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Hyeon Jeong Lee
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Liyan You
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Xuyi Luo
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Tsukasa Hasegawa
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8552, Japan
| | - Kai-Chih Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Peng Lin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Timothy Ratliff
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Minoru Ashizawa
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8552, Japan
| | - Jianguo Mei
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Ji-Xin Cheng
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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45
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Roy J, Hettiarachchi SU, Kaake M, Mukkamala R, Low PS. Design and validation of fibroblast activation protein alpha targeted imaging and therapeutic agents. Theranostics 2020; 10:5778-5789. [PMID: 32483418 PMCID: PMC7254991 DOI: 10.7150/thno.41409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) comprise a major cell type in the tumor microenvironment where they support tumor growth and survival by producing extracellular matrix, secreting immunosuppressive cytokines, releasing growth factors, and facilitating metastases. Because tumors with elevated CAFs are characterized by poorer prognosis, considerable effort is focused on developing methods to quantitate, suppress and/or eliminate CAFs. We exploit the elevated expression of fibroblast activation protein (FAP) on CAFs to target imaging and therapeutic agents selectively to these fibroblasts in solid tumors. Methods: FAP-targeted optical imaging, radioimaging, and chemotherapeutic agents were synthesized by conjugating FAP ligand (FL) to either a fluorescent dye, technetium-99m, or tubulysin B hydrazide. In vitro and in vivo studies were performed to determine the specificity and selectivity of each conjugate for FAP in vitro and in vivo. Results: FAP-targeted imaging and therapeutic conjugates showed high binding specificity and affinity in the low nanomolar range. Injection of FAP-targeted 99mTc into tumor-bearing mice enabled facile detection of tumor xenografts with little off-target uptake. Optical imaging of malignant lesions was also readily achieved following intravenous injection of FAP-targeted near-infrared fluorescent dye. Finally, systemic administration of a tubulysin B conjugate of FL promoted complete eradication of solid tumors with no evidence of gross toxicity to the animals. Conclusion: In view of the near absence of FAP on healthy cells, we conclude that targeting of FAP on cancer-associated fibroblasts can enable highly specific imaging and therapy of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Philip S Low
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
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Fernández M, Shamsabadi A, Chudasama V. Fine-tuning thio-pyridazinediones as SMDC scaffolds (with intracellular thiol release via a novel self-immolative linker). Chem Commun (Camb) 2020; 56:1125-1128. [PMID: 31894778 DOI: 10.1039/c9cc08744c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Herein we report the synthesis of a library of thioalkyl- and thioaryl-pyridazinediones for thiol-based self-immolative release of cargo. A bisthioaryl-pyridazinedione is shown to be stable to serum protein albumin but unstable in intracellular conditions. A derivatised analogue underwent self-immolative degradation in cellular thiol conditions as evidenced by LC-MS/release of a turn-on fluorescence fluorophore; versatility of the thiol-pyridazinedione is demonstrated through synthesis of SMDC precursors that contain three different functional groups on the same central molecule.
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He R, Pan J, Mayer JP, Liu F. The Chemical Methods of Disulfide Bond Formation and Their Applications to Drug Conjugates. CURR ORG CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1385272823666191202111723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
:
The disulfide bond possesses unique chemical and biophysical properties which
distinguish it as one of the key structural elements of bioactive proteins and peptides, important
drugs and other materials. The chemo-selective synthesis of these structures and
the exploration of their function have been of longstanding interest to the chemistry community.
The past decades have witnessed significant progress in both areas. This review
will summarize the historically established and recently developed chemical methods in
disulfide bond formation. The discussion will also be extended to the use of the disulfide
linkers in small molecules, and peptide- and protein-drug conjugates. It is hoped that the
combined overview of the fundamental chemistries and applications to drug discovery
will inspire creative thinking and stimulate future novel uses of these versatile chemistries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongjun He
- Novo Nordisk Research Center Indianapolis, 5225 Exploration Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46241, United States
| | - Jia Pan
- Novo Nordisk Research Centre China, 20 Life Science Road, Beijing, China
| | - John P. Mayer
- Department of Molecular, Developmental & Cell Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, United States
| | - Fa Liu
- Novo Nordisk Research Center, 530 Fairview Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
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Beekman AM, Cominetti MMD, Cartwright OC, Boger DL, Searcey M. A small molecule drug conjugate (SMDC) of DUPA and a duocarmycin built on the solid phase. MEDCHEMCOMM 2019; 10:2170-2174. [PMID: 32879717 DOI: 10.1039/c9md00279k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
In a proof-of-concept study, solid phase synthesis allowed the rapid generation of a small molecule drug conjugate in which the glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCPII) targeting small molecule DUPA was conjugated to the alkylating subunit of the potent cytotoxin duocarmycin SA. The targeted SMDC contained a cathepsin B cleavable linker, which was shown to be active and selective against cathepsin B over-expressing and GCPII-expressing tumour cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Michael Beekman
- School of Pharmacy & School of Chemistry , University of East Anglia , Norwich Research Park, Norwich , Norfolk , NR47TJ , UK . ;
| | - Marco M D Cominetti
- School of Pharmacy & School of Chemistry , University of East Anglia , Norwich Research Park, Norwich , Norfolk , NR47TJ , UK . ;
| | - Oliver Charles Cartwright
- School of Pharmacy & School of Chemistry , University of East Anglia , Norwich Research Park, Norwich , Norfolk , NR47TJ , UK . ;
| | - Dale L Boger
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla , California 92037 , USA
| | - Mark Searcey
- School of Pharmacy & School of Chemistry , University of East Anglia , Norwich Research Park, Norwich , Norfolk , NR47TJ , UK . ;
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Phan LMT, Gul AR, Le TN, Kim MW, Kailasa SK, Oh KT, Park TJ. One-pot synthesis of carbon dots with intrinsic folic acid for synergistic imaging-guided photothermal therapy of prostate cancer cells. Biomater Sci 2019; 7:5187-5196. [PMID: 31588457 DOI: 10.1039/c9bm01228a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Photothermal therapy (PTT) is performed using near-infrared-responsive agents, which is proven to be an effective therapeutic strategy against cancer with several advantages including minimal invasion, high effectiveness, and easy implementation. Herein, we report a facile and novel one-pot synthetic approach for the fabrication of polydopamine-folate carbon dots (PFCDs) as theranostic nanocarriers for the image-guided PTT targeting of prostate cancer (PCa) cells that express a prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) (folate hydrolase 1). The as-fabricated PFCDs exhibited several advantages such as easy preparation, high biocompatibility, low toxicity, good water-solubility, and excellent photothermal effect with robust blue fluorescence emission. The PSMA-directed imaging of PCa using PFCDs showed remarkable fluorescence enhancement in LNCap cells as compared to the case of other cells that did not express PSMA. PFCDs exhibited a photothermal effect in the PCa cells when irradiated with an 808 nm laser, which possibly resulted in the complete elimination of the tumor. Thus, these features make PFCDs a promising candidate for PTT. Moreover, PFCD-based PTT provides an effective biomedical platform for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Minh Tu Phan
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Interdisciplinary Convergence Research, Research Institute of Chem-Bio Diagnostic Technology, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea.
| | - Anam Rana Gul
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Interdisciplinary Convergence Research, Research Institute of Chem-Bio Diagnostic Technology, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea.
| | - Thi Ngoc Le
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Woo Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Interdisciplinary Convergence Research, Research Institute of Chem-Bio Diagnostic Technology, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea.
| | - Suresh Kumar Kailasa
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat 395007, Gujarat, India
| | - Kyung Taek Oh
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Jung Park
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Interdisciplinary Convergence Research, Research Institute of Chem-Bio Diagnostic Technology, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea.
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50
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Tyrosine-based asymmetric urea ligand for prostate carcinoma: Tuning biological efficacy through in silico studies. Bioorg Chem 2019; 91:103154. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.103154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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