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Skowicki M, Tarvirdipour S, Kraus M, Schoenenberger CA, Palivan CG. Nanoassemblies designed for efficient nuclear targeting. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 211:115354. [PMID: 38857762 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115354] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
One of the key aspects of coping efficiently with complex pathological conditions is delivering the desired therapeutic compounds with precision in both space and time. Therefore, the focus on nuclear-targeted delivery systems has emerged as a promising strategy with high potential, particularly in gene therapy and cancer treatment. Here, we explore the design of supramolecular nanoassemblies as vehicles to deliver specific compounds to the nucleus, with the special focus on polymer and peptide-based carriers that expose nuclear localization signals. Such nanoassemblies aim at maximizing the concentration of genetic and therapeutic agents within the nucleus, thereby optimizing treatment outcomes while minimizing off-target effects. A complex scenario of conditions, including cellular uptake, endosomal escape, and nuclear translocation, requires fine tuning of the nanocarriers' properties. First, we introduce the principles of nuclear import and the role of nuclear pore complexes that reveal strategies for targeting nanosystems to the nucleus. Then, we provide an overview of cargoes that rely on nuclear localization for optimal activity as their integrity and accumulation are crucial parameters to consider when designing a suitable delivery system. Considering that they are in their early stages of research, we present various cargo-loaded peptide- and polymer nanoassemblies that promote nuclear targeting, emphasizing their potential to enhance therapeutic response. Finally, we briefly discuss further advancements for more precise and effective nuclear delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Skowicki
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 22, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, BPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Shabnam Tarvirdipour
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 22, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Kraus
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 22, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cora-Ann Schoenenberger
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 22, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, BPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Cornelia G Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 22, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, BPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.
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2
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Liu Y, Oroujeni M, Liao Y, Vorobyeva A, Bodenko V, Orlova A, Konijnenberg M, Carlqvist M, Wahlberg E, Loftenius A, Frejd FY, Tolmachev V. Evaluation of a novel 177Lu-labelled therapeutic Affibody molecule with a deimmunized ABD domain and improved biodistribution profile. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2024:10.1007/s00259-024-06840-5. [PMID: 39008065 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-024-06840-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fusion of Affibody molecules with an albumin-binding domain (ABD) provides targeting agents, which are suitable for radionuclide therapy. To facilitate clinical translation, the low immunogenic potential of such constructs with targeting properties conserved is required. METHODS The HER2-targeting Affibody molecule ZHER2:2891 was fused with a deimmunized ABD variant and DOTA was conjugated to a unique C-terminal cysteine. The novel construct, PEP49989, was labelled with 177Lu. Affinity, specificity, and in vivo targeting properties of [177Lu]Lu-PEP49989 were characterised. Experimental therapy in mice with human HER2-expressing xenografts was evaluated. RESULTS The maximum molar activity of 52 GBq/µmol [177Lu]Lu-PEP49989 was obtained. [177Lu]Lu-PEP49989 bound specifically to HER2-expressing cells in vitro and in vivo. The HER2 binding affinity of [177Lu]Lu-PEP49989 was similar to the affinity of [177Lu]Lu-ABY-027 containing the parental ABD035 variant. The renal uptake of [177Lu]Lu-PEP49989 was 1.4-fold higher, but hepatic and splenic uptake was 1.7-2-fold lower than the uptake of [177Lu]Lu-ABY-027. The median survival of xenograft-bearing mice treated with 21 MBq [177Lu]Lu-PEP49989 (> 90 days) was significantly longer than the survival of mice treated with vehicle (38 days) or trastuzumab (45 days). Treatment using a combination of [177Lu]Lu-PEP49989 and trastuzumab increased the number of complete tumour remissions. The renal and hepatic toxicity was minimal to mild. CONCLUSION In preclinical studies, [177Lu]Lu-PEP49989 demonstrated favourable biodistribution and a strong antitumour effect, which was further enhanced by co-treatment with trastuzumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Liu
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, 751 85, Sweden
| | - Maryam Oroujeni
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, 751 85, Sweden
- Affibody AB, Solna, 171 65, Sweden
| | - Yunqi Liao
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, 751 85, Sweden
| | - Anzhelika Vorobyeva
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, 751 85, Sweden
| | - Vitalina Bodenko
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, 751 85, Sweden
| | - Anna Orlova
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, 751 23, Sweden
| | - Mark Konijnenberg
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Fredrik Y Frejd
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, 751 85, Sweden
- Affibody AB, Solna, 171 65, Sweden
| | - Vladimir Tolmachev
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, 751 85, Sweden.
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Milewska S, Sadowska A, Stefaniuk N, Misztalewska-Turkowicz I, Wilczewska AZ, Car H, Niemirowicz-Laskowska K. Tumor-Homing Peptides as Crucial Component of Magnetic-Based Delivery Systems: Recent Developments and Pharmacoeconomical Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6219. [PMID: 38892406 PMCID: PMC11172452 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116219] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is considered to be one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and new therapeutic approaches, especially improved novel cancer treatment regimens, are in high demand. Considering that many chemotherapeutic drugs tend to have poor pharmacokinetic profiles, including rapid clearance and limited on-site accumulation, a combined approach with tumor-homing peptide (THP)-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles could lead to remarkable improvements. This is confirmed by an increasing number of papers in this field, showing that the on-target peptide functionalization of magnetic nanoparticles improves their penetration properties and ensures tumor-specific binding, which results in an increased clinical response. This review aims to highlight the potential applications of THPs in combination with magnetic carriers across various fields, including a pharmacoeconomic perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Milewska
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Medical University of Bialystok, Szpitalna 37, 15-295 Bialystok, Poland; (S.M.); (A.S.); (N.S.); (H.C.)
| | - Anna Sadowska
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Medical University of Bialystok, Szpitalna 37, 15-295 Bialystok, Poland; (S.M.); (A.S.); (N.S.); (H.C.)
| | - Natalia Stefaniuk
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Medical University of Bialystok, Szpitalna 37, 15-295 Bialystok, Poland; (S.M.); (A.S.); (N.S.); (H.C.)
| | | | - Agnieszka Z. Wilczewska
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1K, 15-245 Bialystok, Poland; (I.M.-T.); (A.Z.W.)
| | - Halina Car
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Medical University of Bialystok, Szpitalna 37, 15-295 Bialystok, Poland; (S.M.); (A.S.); (N.S.); (H.C.)
| | - Katarzyna Niemirowicz-Laskowska
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Medical University of Bialystok, Szpitalna 37, 15-295 Bialystok, Poland; (S.M.); (A.S.); (N.S.); (H.C.)
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Zhou S, Tsutsumiuchi K, Imai R, Miki Y, Kondo A, Nakagawa H, Watanabe K, Ohtsuki T. In Vitro Study of Tumor-Homing Peptide-Modified Magnetic Nanoparticles for Magnetic Hyperthermia. Molecules 2024; 29:2632. [PMID: 38893510 PMCID: PMC11174109 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29112632] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells have higher heat sensitivity compared to normal cells; therefore, hyperthermia is a promising approach for cancer therapy because of its ability to selectively kill cancer cells by heating them. However, the specific and rapid heating of tumor tissues remains challenging. This study investigated the potential of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) modified with tumor-homing peptides (THPs), specifically PL1 and PL3, for tumor-specific magnetic hyperthermia therapy. The synthesis of THP-modified MNPs involved the attachment of PL1 and PL3 peptides to the surface of the MNPs, which facilitated enhanced tumor cell binding and internalization. Cell specificity studies revealed an increased uptake of PL1- and PL3-MNPs by tumor cells compared to unmodified MNPs, indicating their potential for targeted delivery. In vitro hyperthermia experiments demonstrated the efficacy of PL3-MNPs in inducing tumor cell death when exposed to an alternating magnetic field (AMF). Even without exposure to an AMF, an additional ferroptotic pathway was suggested to be mediated by the nanoparticles. Thus, this study suggests that THP-modified MNPs, particularly PL3-MNPs, hold promise as a targeted approach for tumor-specific magnetic hyperthermia therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengli Zhou
- Department of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan; (S.Z.); (K.W.)
| | - Kaname Tsutsumiuchi
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chubu University, Aichi 487-8501, Japan; (K.T.); (R.I.); (Y.M.); (A.K.); (H.N.)
| | - Ritsuko Imai
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chubu University, Aichi 487-8501, Japan; (K.T.); (R.I.); (Y.M.); (A.K.); (H.N.)
| | - Yukiko Miki
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chubu University, Aichi 487-8501, Japan; (K.T.); (R.I.); (Y.M.); (A.K.); (H.N.)
| | - Anna Kondo
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chubu University, Aichi 487-8501, Japan; (K.T.); (R.I.); (Y.M.); (A.K.); (H.N.)
| | - Hiroshi Nakagawa
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chubu University, Aichi 487-8501, Japan; (K.T.); (R.I.); (Y.M.); (A.K.); (H.N.)
| | - Kazunori Watanabe
- Department of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan; (S.Z.); (K.W.)
| | - Takashi Ohtsuki
- Department of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan; (S.Z.); (K.W.)
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5
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Song M, Liu Q, Yao JF, Wang YT, Ma YN, Xu H, Yu QY, Li Z, Du SS, Qi YK. Synthesis and structural optimization of oncolytic peptide LTX-315. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 107:117760. [PMID: 38762978 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117760] [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: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Oncolytic peptides represented potential novel candidates for anticancer treatments especially drug-resistant cancer cell lines. One of the most promising and extensively studied is LTX-315, which is considered as the first in class oncolytic peptide and has entered phase I/II clinical trials. Nevertheless, the shortcomings including poor proteolytic stability, moderate anticancer durability and high synthesis costs may hinder the widespread clinical applications of LTX-315. In order to reduce the synthesis costs, as well as develop derivatives possessing both high protease-stability and durable anticancer efficiency, twenty LTX-315-based derived-peptides were designed and efficiently synthesized. Especially, through solid-phase S-alkylation, as well as the optimized peptide cleavage condition, the derived peptides could be prepared with drastically reduced synthesis cost. The in vitro anticancer efficiency, serum stability, anticancer durability, anti-migration activity, and hemolysis effect were systematically investigated. It was found that derived peptide MS-13 exhibited comparable anticancer efficiency and durability to those of LTX-315. Strikingly, the D-type peptide MS-20, which is the enantiomer of MS-13, was demonstrated to possess significantly high proteolytic stability and sustained anticancer durability. In general, the cost-effective synthesis and stability-guided structural optimizations were conducted on LTX-315, affording the highly hydrolysis resistant MS-20 which possessed durable anticancer activity. Meanwhile, this study also provided a reliable reference for the future optimization of anticancer peptides through the solid-phase S-alkylation and L-type to D-type amino acid substitutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Song
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering in College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Qing Liu
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering in College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Jing-Fang Yao
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Yu-Tao Wang
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering in College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Yan-Nan Ma
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Huan Xu
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering in College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Qian-Yao Yu
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Zhibo Li
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering in College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China.
| | - Shan-Shan Du
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering in College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China; Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China.
| | - Yun-Kun Qi
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China.
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6
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Stoup N, Liberelle M, Lebègue N, Van Seuningen I. Emerging paradigms and recent progress in targeting ErbB in cancers. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:552-576. [PMID: 38797570 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family is a class of transmembrane proteins, highly regarded as anticancer targets due to their pivotal role in various malignancies. Standard cancer treatments targeting the ErbB receptors include tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Despite their substantial survival benefits, the achievement of curative outcomes is hindered by acquired resistance. Recent advancements in anti-ErbB approaches, such as inhibitory peptides, nanobodies, targeted-protein degradation strategies, and bispecific antibodies (BsAbs), aim to overcome such resistance. More recently, emerging insights into the cell surface interactome of the ErbB family open new avenues for modulating ErbB signaling by targeting specific domains of ErbB partners. Here, we review recent progress in ErbB targeting and elucidate emerging paradigms that underscore the significance of EGF domain-containing proteins (EDCPs) as new ErbB-targeting pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Stoup
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER - Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Maxime Liberelle
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S 1172 - LiNC -Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Nicolas Lebègue
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S 1172 - LiNC -Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Isabelle Van Seuningen
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER - Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, F-59000 Lille, France.
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7
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Huang LF, Ye QR, Chen XC, Huang XR, Zhang QF, Wu CY, Liu HF, Yang C. Research Progress of Drug Delivery Systems Targeting the Kidneys. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:625. [PMID: 38794195 PMCID: PMC11124227 DOI: 10.3390/ph17050625] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 10% of the global population, and its incidence is increasing, partially due to an increase in the prevalence of disease risk factors. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is an independent risk factor for CKD and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The pathogenic mechanisms of CKD provide several potential targets for its treatment. However, due to off-target effects, conventional drugs for CKD typically require high doses to achieve adequate therapeutic effects, leading to long-term organ toxicity. Therefore, ideal treatments that completely cure the different types of kidney disease are rarely available. Several approaches for the drug targeting of the kidneys have been explored in drug delivery system research. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems have multiple merits, including good biocompatibility, suitable degradability, the ability to target lesion sites, and fewer non-specific systemic effects. In this review, the development, potential, and limitations of low-molecular-weight protein-lysozymes, polymer nanomaterials, and lipid-based nanocarriers as drug delivery platforms for treating AKI and CKD are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Hua-Feng Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Autophagy and Major Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease of Zhanjiang City, Institute of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524001, China; (L.-F.H.); (Q.-R.Y.); (X.-C.C.); (X.-R.H.); (Q.-F.Z.); (C.-Y.W.)
| | - Chen Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Autophagy and Major Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease of Zhanjiang City, Institute of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524001, China; (L.-F.H.); (Q.-R.Y.); (X.-C.C.); (X.-R.H.); (Q.-F.Z.); (C.-Y.W.)
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8
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Marques AC, Costa PC, Velho S, Amaral MH. Analytical Techniques for Characterizing Tumor-Targeted Antibody-Functionalized Nanoparticles. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:489. [PMID: 38672759 PMCID: PMC11051252 DOI: 10.3390/life14040489] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The specific interaction between cell surface receptors and corresponding antibodies has driven opportunities for developing targeted cancer therapies using nanoparticle systems. It is challenging to design and develop such targeted nanomedicines using antibody ligands, as the final nanoconjugate's specificity hinges on the cohesive functioning of its components. The multicomponent nature of antibody-conjugated nanoparticles also complicates the characterization process. Regardless of the type of nanoparticle, it is essential to perform physicochemical characterization to establish a solid foundation of knowledge and develop suitable preclinical studies. A meaningful physicochemical evaluation of antibody-conjugated nanoparticles should include determining the quantity and orientation of the antibodies, confirming the antibodies' integrity following attachment, and assessing the immunoreactivity of the obtained nanoconjugates. In this review, the authors describe the various techniques (electrophoresis, spectroscopy, colorimetric assays, immunoassays, etc.) used to analyze the physicochemical properties of nanoparticles functionalized with antibodies and discuss the main results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Camila Marques
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, MEDTECH, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paulo C. Costa
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, MEDTECH, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sérgia Velho
- i3S—Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- IPATIMUP—Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Helena Amaral
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, MEDTECH, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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Fu XY, Yin H, Chen XT, Yao JF, Ma YN, Song M, Xu H, Yu QY, Du SS, Qi YK, Wang KW. Three Rounds of Stability-Guided Optimization and Systematical Evaluation of Oncolytic Peptide LTX-315. J Med Chem 2024; 67:3885-3908. [PMID: 38278140 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Oncolytic peptides represent promising novel candidates for anticancer treatments. In our efforts to develop oncolytic peptides possessing both high protease stability and durable anticancer efficiency, three rounds of optimization were conducted on the first-in-class oncolytic peptide LTX-315. The robust synthetic method, in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity, and anticancer mechanism were investigated. The D-type peptides represented by FXY-12 possessed significantly improved proteolytic stability and sustained anticancer efficiency. Strikingly, the novel hybrid peptide FXY-30, containing one FXY-12 and two camptothecin moieties, exhibited the most potent in vitro and in vivo anticancer activities. The mechanism explorations indicated that FXY-30 exhibited rapid membranolytic effects and induced severe DNA double-strand breaks to trigger cell apoptosis. Collectively, this study not only established robust strategies to improve the stability and anticancer potential of oncolytic peptides but also provided valuable references for the future development of D-type peptides-based hybrid anticancer chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Yan Fu
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
- Institute of Innovative Drugs, Qingdao University, #38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Hao Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
- Institute of Innovative Drugs, Qingdao University, #38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Xi-Tong Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Jing-Fang Yao
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Yan-Nan Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Min Song
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Huan Xu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Qian-Yao Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Shan-Shan Du
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Yun-Kun Qi
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
- Institute of Innovative Drugs, Qingdao University, #38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Ke-Wei Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao University, #1 Ningde Road, Qingdao 266073, China
- Institute of Innovative Drugs, Qingdao University, #38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266021, China
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10
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Wang CW, Biswas PK, Islam A, Chen MK, Chueh PJ. The Use of Immune Regulation in Treating Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC). Cells 2024; 13:413. [PMID: 38474377 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050413] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising new treatment modality for head and neck cancer, offering the potential for targeted and effective cancer management. Squamous cell carcinomas pose significant challenges due to their aggressive nature and limited treatment options. Conventional therapies such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy often have limited success rates and can have significant side effects. Immunotherapy harnesses the power of the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells, and thus represents a novel approach with the potential to improve patient outcomes. In the management of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), important contributions are made by immunotherapies, including adaptive cell therapy (ACT) and immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. In this review, we are focusing on the latter. Immune checkpoint inhibitors target proteins such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) to enhance the immune response against cancer cells. The CTLA-4 inhibitors, such as ipilimumab and tremelimumab, have been approved for early-stage clinical trials and have shown promising outcomes in terms of tumor regression and durable responses in patients with advanced HNSCC. Thus, immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy holds promise in overcoming the limitations of conventional therapies. However, further research is needed to optimize treatment regimens, identify predictive biomarkers, and overcome potential resistance mechanisms. With ongoing advancements in immunotherapy, the future holds great potential for transforming the landscape of oral tumor treatment and providing new hope for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che-Wei Wang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua 50006, Taiwan
| | - Pulak Kumar Biswas
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Atikul Islam
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Mu-Kuan Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua 50006, Taiwan
| | - Pin Ju Chueh
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
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11
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Naeem A, Noureen N, Al-Naemi SK, Al-Emadi JA, Khan MJ. Computational design of anti-cancer peptides tailored to target specific tumor markers. BMC Chem 2024; 18:39. [PMID: 38388460 PMCID: PMC10882887 DOI: 10.1186/s13065-024-01143-0] [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: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Anti-cancer peptides (ACPs) are short peptides known for their ability to inhibit tumor cell proliferation, migration, and the formation of tumor blood vessels. In this study, we designed ACPs to target receptors often overexpressed in cancer using a systematic in silico approach. Three target receptors (CXCR1, DcR3, and OPG) were selected for their significant roles in cancer pathogenesis and tumor cell proliferation. Our peptide design strategy involved identifying interacting residues (IR) of these receptors, with their natural ligands serving as a reference for designing peptides specific to each receptor. The natural ligands of these receptors, including IL8 for CXCR1, TL1A for DcR3, and RANKL for OPG, were identified from the literature. Using the identified interacting residues (IR), we generated a peptide library through simple permutation and predicted the structure of each peptide. All peptides were analyzed using the web-based prediction server for Anticancer peptides, AntiCP. Docking simulations were then conducted to analyze the binding efficiencies of peptides with their respective target receptors, using VEGA ZZ and Chimera for interaction analysis. Our analysis identified HPKFIKELR as the interacting residues (IR) of CXCR-IL8. For DcR3, we utilized three domains from TL1A (TDSYPEP, TKEDKTF, LGLAFTK) as templates, along with two regions (SIKIPSS and PDQDATYP) from RANKL, to generate a library of peptide analogs. Subsequently, peptides for each receptor were shortlisted based on their predicted anticancer properties as determined by AntiCP and were subjected to docking analysis. After docking, peptides that exhibited the least binding energy were further analyzed for their detailed interaction with their respective receptors. Among these, peptides C9 (HPKFELY) and C7 (HPKFEWL) for CXCR1, peptides D6 (ADSYPQP) and D18 (AFSYPFP) for DcR3, and peptides P19 (PDTYPQDP) and p16 (PDQDATYP) for OPG, demonstrated the highest affinity and stronger interactions compared to the other peptides. Although in silico predictions indicated a favorable binding affinity of the designed peptides with target receptors, further experimental validation is essential to confirm their binding affinity, stability and pharmacokinetic characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Naeem
- QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Nighat Noureen
- Cancer Center and Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA.
| | | | | | - Muhammad Jawad Khan
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan
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12
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Kim G, Chen Z, Li J, Luo J, Castro-Martinez F, Wisniewski J, Cui K, Wang Y, Sun J, Ren X, Crawford SE, Becerra SP, Zhu J, Liu T, Wang S, Zhao K, Wu C. Gut-liver axis calibrates intestinal stem cell fitness. Cell 2024; 187:914-930.e20. [PMID: 38280375 PMCID: PMC10923069 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
The gut and liver are recognized to mutually communicate through the biliary tract, portal vein, and systemic circulation. However, it remains unclear how this gut-liver axis regulates intestinal physiology. Through hepatectomy and transcriptomic and proteomic profiling, we identified pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), a liver-derived soluble Wnt inhibitor, which restrains intestinal stem cell (ISC) hyperproliferation to maintain gut homeostasis by suppressing the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Furthermore, we found that microbial danger signals resulting from intestinal inflammation can be sensed by the liver, leading to the repression of PEDF production through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα). This repression liberates ISC proliferation to accelerate tissue repair in the gut. Additionally, treating mice with fenofibrate, a clinical PPARα agonist used for hypolipidemia, enhances colitis susceptibility due to PEDF activity. Therefore, we have identified a distinct role for PEDF in calibrating ISC expansion for intestinal homeostasis through reciprocal interactions between the gut and liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girak Kim
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Zuojia Chen
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jian Li
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jialie Luo
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Felipe Castro-Martinez
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jan Wisniewski
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kairong Cui
- Laboratory of Epigenome Biology, Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Yan Wang
- Mass Spectrometry Facility, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jialei Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiaobai Ren
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mary M. and Sash A. Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94304, USA
| | - Susan E Crawford
- Department of Surgery, North Shore University Research Institute, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - S Patricia Becerra
- Section of Protein Structure and Function, Laboratory of Retinal Cell and Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jimin Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Taotao Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Sui Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mary M. and Sash A. Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94304, USA
| | - Keji Zhao
- Laboratory of Epigenome Biology, Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Chuan Wu
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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13
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Wang Y, Zhang L, Liu C, Luo Y, Chen D. Peptide-Mediated Nanocarriers for Targeted Drug Delivery: Developments and Strategies. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:240. [PMID: 38399294 PMCID: PMC10893007 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16020240] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Effective drug delivery is essential for cancer treatment. Drug delivery systems, which can be tailored to targeted transport and integrated tumor therapy, are vital in improving the efficiency of cancer treatment. Peptides play a significant role in various biological and physiological functions and offer high design flexibility, excellent biocompatibility, adjustable morphology, and biodegradability, making them promising candidates for drug delivery. This paper reviews peptide-mediated drug delivery systems, focusing on self-assembled peptides and peptide-drug conjugates. It discusses the mechanisms and structural control of self-assembled peptides, the varieties and roles of peptide-drug conjugates, and strategies to augment peptide stability. The review concludes by addressing challenges and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubo Wang
- Medical College, Guangxi University, Da-Xue-Dong Road No. 100, Nanning 530004, China;
| | - Lu Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China;
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China;
| | - Chen Liu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China;
| | - Yiming Luo
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen 361003, China
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 351002, China
| | - Dengyue Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China;
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14
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Chen Z, Xiong M, Tian J, Song D, Duan S, Zhang L. Encapsulation and assessment of therapeutic cargo in engineered exosomes: a systematic review. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:18. [PMID: 38172932 PMCID: PMC10765779 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02259-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are nanoscale extracellular vesicles secreted by cells and enclosed by a lipid bilayer membrane containing various biologically active cargoes such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Engineered exosomes generated through genetic modification of parent cells show promise as drug delivery vehicles, and they have been demonstrated to have great therapeutic potential for treating cancer, cardiovascular, neurological, and immune diseases, but systematic knowledge is lacking regarding optimization of drug loading and assessment of delivery efficacy. This review summarizes current approaches for engineering exosomes and evaluating their drug delivery effects, and current techniques for assessing exosome drug loading and release kinetics, cell targeting, biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic outcomes are critically examined. Additionally, this review synthesizes the latest applications of exosome engineering and drug delivery in clinical translation. The knowledge compiled in this review provides a framework for the rational design and rigorous assessment of exosomes as therapeutics. Continued advancement of robust characterization methods and reporting standards will accelerate the development of exosome engineering technologies and pave the way for clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Chen
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Women and Children Diseases, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250001, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Jinan, 250001, China
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
| | - Min Xiong
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063000, China
| | - Jiaqi Tian
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Women and Children Diseases, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250001, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Dandan Song
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Women and Children Diseases, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250001, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Shuyin Duan
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Women and Children Diseases, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250001, China.
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Jinan, 250001, China.
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15
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Hansen PR, Oddo A. Fmoc Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2821:33-55. [PMID: 38997478 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3914-6_3] [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] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic peptides are important as drugs and in research. Currently, the method of choice for producing these compounds is solid-phase peptide synthesis. Here, we describe the scope and limitations of Fmoc solid-phase peptide synthesis. Furthermore, we provide a detailed protocol for Fmoc peptide synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Robert Hansen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Alberto Oddo
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- , Måløv, Denmark
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16
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Collins JM, Singh SK, White TA, Cesta DJ, Simpson CL, Tubb LJ, Houser CL. Total wash elimination for solid phase peptide synthesis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8168. [PMID: 38071224 PMCID: PMC10710472 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44074-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a process for solid phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) that completely eliminates all solvent intensive washing steps during each amino acid addition cycle. A key breakthrough is the removal of a volatile Fmoc deprotection base through bulk evaporation at elevated temperature while preventing condensation on the vessel surfaces with a directed headspace gas flushing. This process was demonstrated at both research and production scales without any impact on product quality and when applied to a variety of challenging sequences (up to 89 amino acids in length). The overall result is an extremely fast, high purity, scalable process with a massive waste reduction (up to 95%) while only requiring 10-15% of the standard amount of base used. This transformation of SPPS represents a step-change in peptide manufacturing process efficiency, and should encourage expanded access to peptide-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Collins
- Peptide Synthesis Research, CEM Corporation, 3100 Smith Farm Rd, Matthews, NC, 28104, USA.
| | - Sandeep K Singh
- Peptide Synthesis Research, CEM Corporation, 3100 Smith Farm Rd, Matthews, NC, 28104, USA
| | - Travis A White
- Peptide Synthesis Research, CEM Corporation, 3100 Smith Farm Rd, Matthews, NC, 28104, USA
| | - Drew J Cesta
- Peptide Synthesis Research, CEM Corporation, 3100 Smith Farm Rd, Matthews, NC, 28104, USA
| | - Colin L Simpson
- Peptide Synthesis Research, CEM Corporation, 3100 Smith Farm Rd, Matthews, NC, 28104, USA
| | - Levi J Tubb
- Peptide Synthesis Research, CEM Corporation, 3100 Smith Farm Rd, Matthews, NC, 28104, USA
| | - Christopher L Houser
- Peptide Synthesis Research, CEM Corporation, 3100 Smith Farm Rd, Matthews, NC, 28104, USA
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17
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Costagliola A, Lombardi R, Liguori G, Morrione A, Giordano A. Orexins and Prostate Cancer: State of the Art and Potential Experimental and Therapeutic Perspectives. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2023; 20:637-645. [PMID: 38035703 PMCID: PMC10687730 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20412] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common cancer in humans. Peptides have recently been used as targeted therapeutics in cancers, due to their extensive multi-functional applications. Two hypothalamic peptides, orexins A (OXA) and B (OXB) and their specific receptors, orexin receptor 1 (OX1R) and 2 (OX2R), orchestrate several biological processes in the central nervous system and peripheral organs. However, in addition to their role in physiological responses, orexins are involved in numerous inflammatory and/or neoplastic pathologies. The presence and expression of orexins in different cancer models, including prostate cancer, and their role in inducing pro- or anti-apoptotic responses in tumor cell lines, suggest that the orexinergic system might have potential therapeutic action or function as a diagnostic marker in PCa. In addition to the traditional animal models for studying human PCa, the canine model might also serve as an additional tool, due to its clinical similarities with human prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Costagliola
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Renato Lombardi
- Local Health Authority, ASL, Foggia, Italy
- Unit of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceuticals, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giovanna Liguori
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy;
- Local Health Authority, ASL, Foggia, Italy
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, U.S.A
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, U.S.A
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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18
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Franco P, Camerino I, Merlino F, D’Angelo M, Cimmino A, Carotenuto A, Colucci-D’Amato L, Stoppelli MP. αV-Integrin-Dependent Inhibition of Glioblastoma Cell Migration, Invasion and Vasculogenic Mimicry by the uPAcyclin Decapeptide. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4775. [PMID: 37835469 PMCID: PMC10571957 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194775] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the deadliest human cancers is glioblastoma (GBM) for which new treatment approaches are urgently needed. Here, the effects of the cyclic decapeptide, uPAcyclin, are investigated using the U87-MG, U251-MG, and U138-MG human GBM and C6 rat cell models. All GBM cells express the αV-integrin subunit, the target of uPAcyclin, and bind specifically to nanomolar concentrations of the decapeptide. Although peptide exposure affects neither viability nor cell proliferation rate, nanomolar concentrations of uPAcyclin markedly inhibit the directional migration and matrix invasion of all GBM cells, in a concentration- and αV-dependent manner. Moreover, wound healing rate closure of U87-MG and C6 rat glioma cells is reduced by 50% and time-lapse videomicroscopy studies show that the formation of vascular-like structures by U87-MG in three-dimensional matrix cultures is markedly inhibited by uPAcyclin. A strong reduction in the branching point numbers of the U87-MG, C6, and U251-MG cell lines undergoing vasculogenic mimicry, in the presence of nanomolar peptide concentrations, was observed. Lysates from matrix-recovered uPAcyclin-exposed cells exhibit a reduced expression of VE-cadherin, a prominent factor in the acquisition of vascular-like structures. In conclusion, these results indicate that uPAcyclin is a promising candidate to counteract the formation of new vessels in novel targeted anti-GBM therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Franco
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati Traverso” (IGB-ABT), National Research Council of Italy, 80131 Naples, Italy; (P.F.); (I.C.); (M.D.); (A.C.)
| | - Iolanda Camerino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati Traverso” (IGB-ABT), National Research Council of Italy, 80131 Naples, Italy; (P.F.); (I.C.); (M.D.); (A.C.)
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.M.); (A.C.)
| | - Margherita D’Angelo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati Traverso” (IGB-ABT), National Research Council of Italy, 80131 Naples, Italy; (P.F.); (I.C.); (M.D.); (A.C.)
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Naples, Italy
| | - Amelia Cimmino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati Traverso” (IGB-ABT), National Research Council of Italy, 80131 Naples, Italy; (P.F.); (I.C.); (M.D.); (A.C.)
| | - Alfonso Carotenuto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.M.); (A.C.)
| | - Luca Colucci-D’Amato
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy
- InterUniversity Center for Research in Neurosciences (CIRN), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Patrizia Stoppelli
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati Traverso” (IGB-ABT), National Research Council of Italy, 80131 Naples, Italy; (P.F.); (I.C.); (M.D.); (A.C.)
- UniCamillus—Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, 00131 Rome, Italy
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19
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Morbiato L, Quaggia C, Menilli L, Dalla Torre C, Barbon A, De Zotti M. Synthesis, Conformational Analysis and Antitumor Activity of the Naturally Occurring Antimicrobial Medium-Length Peptaibol Pentadecaibin and Spin-Labeled Analogs Thereof. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13396. [PMID: 37686199 PMCID: PMC10487733 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptaibols are proteolysis-resistant, membrane-active peptides. Their remarkably stable helical 3D-structures are key for their bioactivity. They can insert themselves into the lipid bilayer as barrel staves, or lay on its surface like carpets, depending on both their length and the thickness of the lipid bilayer. Medium-length peptaibols are of particular interest for studying the peptide-membrane interaction because their length allows them to adopt either orientation as a function of the membrane thickness, which, in turn, might even result in an enhanced selectivity. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) is the election technique used to this aim, but it requires the synthesis of spin-labeled medium-length peptaibols, which, in turn, is hampered by the poor reactivity of the Cα-tetrasubstituted residues featured in their sequences. After several years of trial and error, we are now able to give state-of-the-art advice for a successful synthesis of nitroxide-containing peptaibols, avoiding deleted sequences, side reactions and difficult purification steps. Herein, we describe our strategy and itsapplication to the synthesis of spin-labeled analogs of the recently discovered, natural, medium-length peptaibol pentadecaibin. We studied the antitumor activity of pentadecaibin and its analogs, finding potent cytotoxicity against human triple-negative breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Finally, our analysis of the peptide conformational preferences and membrane interaction proved that pentadecaibinspin-labeling does not alter the biological features of the native sequence and is suitable for further EPR studies. The nitroxide-containing pentadecaibins, and their synthetic strategy described herein, will help to shed light on the mechanism of the peptide-membrane interaction of medium-length peptaibols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Morbiato
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (C.Q.); (C.D.T.); (A.B.)
| | - Celeste Quaggia
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (C.Q.); (C.D.T.); (A.B.)
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Chiara Dalla Torre
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (C.Q.); (C.D.T.); (A.B.)
| | - Antonio Barbon
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (C.Q.); (C.D.T.); (A.B.)
| | - Marta De Zotti
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (C.Q.); (C.D.T.); (A.B.)
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20
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Nhàn NTT, Yamada T, Yamada KH. Peptide-Based Agents for Cancer Treatment: Current Applications and Future Directions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12931. [PMID: 37629112 PMCID: PMC10454368 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide-based strategies have received an enormous amount of attention because of their specificity and applicability. Their specificity and tumor-targeting ability are applied to diagnosis and treatment for cancer patients. In this review, we will summarize recent advancements and future perspectives on peptide-based strategies for cancer treatment. The literature search was conducted to identify relevant articles for peptide-based strategies for cancer treatment. It was performed using PubMed for articles in English until June 2023. Information on clinical trials was also obtained from ClinicalTrial.gov. Given that peptide-based strategies have several advantages such as targeted delivery to the diseased area, personalized designs, relatively small sizes, and simple production process, bioactive peptides having anti-cancer activities (anti-cancer peptides or ACPs) have been tested in pre-clinical settings and clinical trials. The capability of peptides for tumor targeting is essentially useful for peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs), diagnosis, and image-guided surgery. Immunomodulation with peptide vaccines has been extensively tested in clinical trials. Despite such advantages, FDA-approved peptide agents for solid cancer are still limited. This review will provide a detailed overview of current approaches, design strategies, routes of administration, and new technological advancements. We will highlight the success and limitations of peptide-based therapies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyễn Thị Thanh Nhàn
- Department of Pharmacology & Regenerative Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
| | - Tohru Yamada
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
- Richard & Loan Hill Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois College of Engineering, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Kaori H. Yamada
- Department of Pharmacology & Regenerative Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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21
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Cui J, Feng Y, Yang T, Wang X, Tang H. Computer-Aided Designing Peptide Inhibitors of Human Hematopoietic Prostaglandin D2 Synthase Combined Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulation. Molecules 2023; 28:5933. [PMID: 37570903 PMCID: PMC10421073 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28155933] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Human hematopoietic prostaglandin D2 synthase (HPGDS) is involved in the production of prostaglandin D2, which participates in various physiological processes, including inflammation, allergic reactions, and sleep regulation. Inhibitors of HPGDS have been investigated as potential anti-inflammatory agents. For the investigation of potent HPGDS inhibitors, we carried out a computational modeling study combining molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation for selecting and virtual confirming the designed binders. We selected the structure of HPGDS (PDB ID: 2CVD) carrying its native inhibitor compound HQL as our research target. The random 5-mer peptide library was created by building the 3-D structure of random peptides using Rosetta Buildpeptide and performing conformational optimization. Molecular docking was carried out by accommodating the peptides into the location of their native binder and then conducting docking using FlexPepDock. The two peptides RMYYY and VMYMI, which display the lowest binding energy against HPGDS, were selected to perform a comparative study. The interaction of RMYYY and VMYMI against HPGDS was further confirmed using molecular dynamics simulation and aligned with its native binder, HQL. We show the selected binders to have stronger binding energy and more frequent interactions against HPGDS than HQL. In addition, we analyzed the solubility, hydrophobicity, charge, and bioactivity of the generated peptides, and we show that the selected strong binder may be further used as therapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Cui
- Wuxi Food Safety Inspection and Test Center, 35-210 South Changjiang Road, Wuxi 214142, China (T.Y.)
- Technology Innovation Center of Special Food for State Market Regulation, 35-302 South Changjiang Road, Wuxi 214142, China
| | - Yongwei Feng
- Wuxi Food Safety Inspection and Test Center, 35-210 South Changjiang Road, Wuxi 214142, China (T.Y.)
- Technology Innovation Center of Special Food for State Market Regulation, 35-302 South Changjiang Road, Wuxi 214142, China
| | - Ting Yang
- Wuxi Food Safety Inspection and Test Center, 35-210 South Changjiang Road, Wuxi 214142, China (T.Y.)
- Technology Innovation Center of Special Food for State Market Regulation, 35-302 South Changjiang Road, Wuxi 214142, China
| | - Xinglong Wang
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi 214122, China;
| | - Heng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Biomanufacturing of Chiral Chemicals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
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