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Reisi Zargari N, Ebrahimi F, Akhlaghi M, Beiki D, Abdi K, Abbasi MA, Ramezanpour S, Asghari SM. Novel Gd-DTPA-peptide for targeted breast tumor magnetic resonance imaging. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 178:117189. [PMID: 39059353 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117189] [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: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of breast cancer underscores the imperative for early diagnosis in guiding treatment decisions. This study introduces a novel contrast agent, Gd-DTPA-VGB3, derived from the peptide VGB3 targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR1) and VEGFR2, to enhance the contrast of conventional drug Magnevist in breast tumor MRI. The MRI contrast agent was synthesized on rink amide resin via Fmoc strategy, incorporating amino acids, and coupling to diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA). Gadolinium (Gd)-DTPA-VGB3 displayed specific binding to VEGFR1/2 in a displacement binding assay. Gd-DTPA-VGB3 exhibited minimal cytotoxicity to normal MCF-10 cells while inhibiting 4T1 mammary carcinoma cell proliferation. Compared to Magnevist, Gd-DTPA-VGB3 demonstrated a 2.8-fold increase in contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) (355 vs. 125). Gd-DTPA-VGB3 exhibited enhanced accumulation in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice, resulting in significant signal intensity improvement. The findings highlight Gd-DTPA-VGB3's specific binding to VEGFRs, substantiating its potential as a candidate for enhancing MRI contrast in breast cancer diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatemeh Ebrahimi
- Department of Nuclear Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Akhlaghi
- Research Center for Nuclear Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Davood Beiki
- Department of Nuclear Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Research Center for Nuclear Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khosrou Abdi
- Department of Radiopharmacy and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Abbasi
- Firoozabadi Hospital Clinical Research Development Unit (FHCRDU), Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Sorour Ramezanpour
- Department of Chemistry, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Mohsen Asghari
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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Ebrahimi F, Zargari NR, Akhlaghi M, Asghari SM, Abdi K, Balalaie S, Asadi M, Beiki D. Synthesis, Radiolabeling, and Biodistribution Study of a Novel DOTA-Peptide for Targeting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptors in the Molecular Imaging of Breast Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:899. [PMID: 39065596 PMCID: PMC11279866 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16070899] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
As angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in tumor progression and metastasis, leading to more cancer-related deaths, the angiogenic process can be considered as a target for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. The vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGR-1) and VEGFR-2 have high expression on breast cancer cells and contribute to angiogenesis and tumor development. Thus, early diagnosis through VEGFR-1/2 detection is an excellent strategy that can significantly increase a patient's chance of survival. In this study, the VEGFR1/2-targeting peptide VGB3 was conjugated with 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA), using 6-aminohexanoic acid (Ahx) as a spacer to prevent steric hindrance in binding. DOTA-Ahx-VGB3 was radiolabeled with Gallium-68 (68Ga) efficiently. An in vitro cell binding assay was assessed in the 4T1 cell line. The tumor-targeting potential of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Ahx-VGB3 was conducted for 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. Consequently, high radiochemical purity [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Ahx-VGB3 (RCP = 98%) was prepared and stabilized in different buffer systems. Approximately 17% of the radiopeptide was internalized after 2 h incubation and receptor binding as characterized by the IC50 value being about 867 nM. The biodistribution and PET/CT studies revealed that [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Ahx-VGB3 reached the tumor site and was excreted rapidly by the renal system. These features convey [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Ahx-VGB3 as a suitable agent for the noninvasive visualization of VEGFR-1/2 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Ebrahimi
- Department of Nuclear Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1417614411, Iran
| | | | - Mehdi Akhlaghi
- Research Center for Nuclear Medicine, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1411713135, Iran;
| | - S. Mohsen Asghari
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran, Tehran 1417614335, Iran;
| | - Khosrou Abdi
- Department of Nuclear Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1417614411, Iran
| | - Saeed Balalaie
- Peptide Chemistry Research Institute, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 158754416, Iran
| | - Mahboobeh Asadi
- Research Center for Nuclear Medicine, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1411713135, Iran;
| | - Davood Beiki
- Department of Nuclear Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1417614411, Iran
- Research Center for Nuclear Medicine, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1411713135, Iran;
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Kazemi-Lomedasht F, Taghizadeh-Hesary F, Faal Z, Behdani M. Targeted Delivery of Diphtheria Toxin into VEGFR1/VEGFR2 Overexpressing Cells Induces Anti-angiogenesis Activity. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2024; 25:567-576. [PMID: 39044556 DOI: 10.2174/0113892037292385240222074908] [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: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptors (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2) are tyrosine kinase receptors expressed on endothelial cells and tumor vessels and play an important role in angiogenesis. In this study, three repeats of VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 binding peptide (VGB3) were genetically fused to the truncated diphtheria toxin (TDT), and its in vitro activity was evaluated. METHODS The recombinant construct (TDT-triVGB3) was expressed in bacteria cells and purified with nickel affinity chromatography. The binding capacity and affinity of TDT-triVGB3 were evaluated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The inhibitory activity of TDT-triVGB3 on viability, migration, and tube formation of human endothelial cells was evaluated using MTT, migration, and tube formation assays. RESULTS TDT-triVGB3 selectively detected VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 with high affinity in an enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay and significantly inhibited viability, migration, and tube formation of human endothelial cells. CONCLUSION The developed TDT-triVGB3 is potentially a novel agent for targeting VEGFR1/ VEGFR2 over-expressing cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Kazemi-Lomedasht
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Taghizadeh-Hesary
- ENT and Head and Neck Research Center and Department, The Five Senses Health Institute, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Clinical Oncology Department, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Faal
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Behdani
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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Namjoo M, Ghafouri H, Assareh E, Aref AR, Mostafavi E, Hamrahi Mohsen A, Balalaie S, Broussy S, Asghari SM. A VEGFB-Based Peptidomimetic Inhibits VEGFR2-Mediated PI3K/Akt/mTOR and PLCγ/ERK Signaling and Elicits Apoptotic, Antiangiogenic, and Antitumor Activities. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:906. [PMID: 37375853 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060906] [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] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) mediates VEGFA signaling mainly through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and PLCγ/ERK1/2 pathways. Here we unveil a peptidomimetic (VGB3) based on the interaction between VEGFB and VEGFR1 that unexpectedly binds and neutralizes VEGFR2. Investigation of the cyclic and linear structures of VGB3 (named C-VGB3 and L-VGB3, respectively) using receptor binding and cell proliferation assays, molecular docking, and evaluation of antiangiogenic and antitumor activities in the 4T1 mouse mammary carcinoma tumor (MCT) model showed that loop formation is essential for peptide functionality. C-VGB3 inhibited proliferation and tubulogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), accounting for the abrogation of VEGFR2, p-VEGFR2 and, subsequently, PI3K/AKT/mTOR and PLCγ/ERK1/2 pathways. In 4T1 MCT cells, C-VGB3 inhibited cell proliferation, VEGFR2 expression and phosphorylation, the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, FAK/Paxillin, and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition cascade. The apoptotic effects of C-VGB3 on HUVE and 4T1 MCT cells were inferred from annexin-PI and TUNEL staining and activation of P53, caspase-3, caspase-7, and PARP1, which mechanistically occurred through the intrinsic pathway mediated by Bcl2 family members, cytochrome c, Apaf-1 and caspase-9, and extrinsic pathway via death receptors and caspase-8. These data indicate that binding regions shared by VEGF family members may be important in developing novel pan-VEGFR inhibitors that are highly relevant in the pathogenesis of angiogenesis-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohadeseh Namjoo
- Department of Biology, University Campus II, University of Guilan, Rasht P.O. Box 14155-6619, Iran
| | - Hossein Ghafouri
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht P.O. Box 14155-6619, Iran
| | - Elham Assareh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht P.O. Box 14155-6619, Iran
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Ali Hamrahi Mohsen
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran, Tehran P.O. Box 1841, Iran
| | - Saeed Balalaie
- Peptide Chemistry Research Center, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran P.O. Box 1841, Iran
| | - Sylvain Broussy
- CiTCoM, UMR CNRS 8038, U1268 INSERM, UFR de Pharmacie, Faculté de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 75006 Paris, France
| | - S Mohsen Asghari
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran, Tehran P.O. Box 1841, Iran
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Mahmoud HA, Kamel EM, Mahmoud AM, Alruhaimi RS, El-Zanaty AM, Abd El-Salam HM, Abdel-Gawad OF. Multitargeted molecular modelling of alginic acid modified with 4-aminophenol dopped with silver nanoparticles as a potent cytotoxic agent. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17106. [PMID: 37484376 PMCID: PMC10361328 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The activity of alginic acid as a cytotoxic agent was improved by structure modification using 4-aminophenol (4-AP) through condensation and polymerization processes. Then, silver nanoparticles were employed through doping to further enhance the cytotoxic activity of the modified polymer. The structure of the prepared materials was characterized by FT-IR, 1HNMR, UV spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and electron microscopy, and the thermal behavior of all synthesized materials was intensively studied. The cytotoxicity of the prepared compounds against cell lines of human hepatocellular (HepG-2) and lung (A-549) carcinomas was investigated. Alginic acid modified with 4-AP (Alg-4-AP3) showed the highest activity against HepG-2 and A-549 among all tested materials with IC50 values of 3.0 ± 0.19 μg/mL and 3.63 ± 0.23 μg/mL, respectively. Multitargeted molecular docking was employed to explore the binding modes of our compounds with the receptors EGFR, HER2, and VEGFR 2. The results revealed the inhibitory activity of our tested compounds against the proposed protein receptors, findings coincided with the in vitro results. In conclusion, the modification of alginic acid with 4-AP improved its cytotoxic activity against HepG-2 and A-549 cancer cells. In addition, doping the new materials with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) further enhanced the cytotoxic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haneen A. Mahmoud
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62514, Egypt
| | - Emadeldin M. Kamel
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62514, Egypt
| | - Ayman M. Mahmoud
- Physiology Division, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62514, Egypt
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, M1 5GD, UK
| | - Reem S. Alruhaimi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali M. El-Zanaty
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62514, Egypt
| | | | - Omayma F. Abdel-Gawad
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62514, Egypt
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Qi Y, Song Y, Cai M, Li J, Yu Z, Li Y, Huang J, Jiang Y, Peng C, Jiang B, Liu S. Vascular endothelial growth factor A is a potential prognostic biomarker and correlates with immune cell infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cell Mol Med 2023; 27:538-552. [PMID: 36729917 PMCID: PMC9930434 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among cancer patients. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) is involved in regulating biological processes, such as angiogenesis and vascular permeability, and is very closely related to the pathogenesis of various tumours, especially vascular-rich, solid tumours. Clinical data of patients with HCC and other tumours were analysed through public databases, such as the TCGA database, Gene Expression Omnibus database, Human Protein Atlas database, STRING, Tumour Immune Estimation Resource and Kaplan-Meier Plotter. The tumour tissues and adjacent normal tissues of patients with HCC from Hunan Provincial People's Hospital were collected to verify the expression of VEGFA by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Western blotting and qPCR. VEGFA expression is elevated in multiple tumour types and correlates with the prognosis of tumour patients. VEGFA is involved in regulating the tumour microenvironment and immune cell function in tumour development. Inhibition of VEGFA reduces proliferation, invasion, and migration and promotes apoptosis in HCC cells. VEGFA is a potential predictive biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Qi
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina,Department of CardiologyXiangdong Hospital Affiliated to Hunan Normal UniversityLilingChina,Central Laboratory of Hunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yinghui Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina,Central Laboratory of Hunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Mengting Cai
- Department of Nuclear MedicineHunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Jianwen Li
- Department of CardiologyXiangdong Hospital Affiliated to Hunan Normal UniversityLilingChina
| | - Zhangtao Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yuhang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Junkai Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yu Jiang
- Institute of Emergency Medicine/Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care MetabonomicsHunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Chuang Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Bo Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Sulai Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina,Central Laboratory of Hunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal UniversityChangshaChina
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Shahbazi B, Arab SS, Mafakher L, Azadmansh K, Teimoori-Toolabi L. Computational assessment of pigment epithelium-derived factor as an anti-cancer protein during its interaction with the receptors. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2022:1-17. [PMID: 35510592 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2069863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) is a member of the serine proteinase inhibitor (serpin) with antiangiogenic, anti-tumorigenic, antioxidant, anti-atherosclerosis, antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. The PEDF can bind to low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6), laminin (LR), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), and ATP synthase β-subunit receptors. In this study, we aimed to investigate the structural basis of the interaction between PEDF and its receptors using bioinformatics approaches to identify the critical amino acids for designing anticancer peptides. The human ATP synthase β-subunit was predicted by homology modeling. The molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, and Molecular mechanics/Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA) were used to study this protein-receptor complex. The molecular docking showed PEDF could bind to the Laminin and VEGFR2 much stronger than ATP synthase β-subunit, VEGFR1, and LRP6. The PEDF could effectively interact with various receptors during the simulation. The N-terminal of PEDF has an important role in the interaction with the receptors. The MM/PBSA showed the electrostatic (ΔEElec) and van der Waals interactions (ΔEVdW) contributed positively to the binding process of the complexes. The critical amino acids in the binding interaction of PEDF to its receptors in the MD simulation were determined. The interaction mode of 34-mer PEDF to laminin, VEGFR2, and LRP6 were different from VEGFR1, ATP synthase β-subunit. The 34-mer PEDF has an important role in the interaction with different receptors and these critical amino acids can be used for designing peptides for future therapeutic aims.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behzad Shahbazi
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Shahriar Arab
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ladan Mafakher
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ladan Teimoori-Toolabi
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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Molecular Docking of SA11, RF13 and DI14 Peptides from Vacuolar Protein Sorting Associated Protein 26B Against Cancer Proteins and In vitro Investigation of its Anticancer Potency in Hep-2 Cells. Int J Pept Res Ther 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-022-10395-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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9
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Velayutham M, Sarkar P, Rajakrishnan R, Kuppusamy P, Juliet A, Arockiaraj J. Antiproliferation of MP12 derived from a fungus, Aphanomyces invadans virulence factor, cysteine-rich trypsin inhibitor on human laryngeal epithelial cells, and in vivo zebrafish embryo model. Toxicon 2022; 210:100-108. [PMID: 35217022 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Peptide-based drug development is an emerging and promising approach in cancer therapeutics. The present study focuses on understanding the mechanism of MP12 peptide (MDNHVCIPLCPP) derived from cysteine-rich trypsin inhibitor protein of virulence factor of pathogenic fungus Aphanomyces invadans. MP12 is involved in antiproliferative activity against the human laryngeal epithelial cell (Hep-2), demonstrated in this study. MP12 sequence showed a significant binding score and has multiple hydrogen bond interactions with the proteins that play a vital role in apoptotic pathways such as Bcl-2, caspase-3, caspase-7, and XIAP. Based on the bioinformatics characterization and molecular docking result, further study was focused on MP12 antiproliferative activity. The peptide showed a dose-dependent inhibition against Hep-2 cell line proliferation, analyzed over MTT and neutral red uptake assays. The IC50 value of the MP12 peptide was calculated based on the antiproliferative property (24.7 ± 0.34 μM). MP12 treated Hep-2 cells showed significant shrinkage in cell morphology compared to untreated cells, inhibiting the cell cycle. The gene expression analysis validated that the MP12 significantly upregulates the caspase-3, caspase-7, and caspase-9 genes. The developmental toxicity study using zebrafish embryos as in vivo model proved that the MP12 is nontoxic. Based on the obtained results, we proposed that the peptide MP12 derived from cysteine-rich trypsin inhibitor protein of virulence molecule of pathogenic fungus have a potential antiproliferative activity. However, further clinical trials need to be focused on the mechanism and therapeutic application against laryngeal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manikandan Velayutham
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603 203, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Purabi Sarkar
- School of Allied Healthcare and Sciences, Jain Deemed-to-be University, Whitefield, Bangalore, 560 066, Karnataka, India
| | - R Rajakrishnan
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Palaniselvam Kuppusamy
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, 54896, South Korea
| | - Annie Juliet
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station A4800, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Jesu Arockiaraj
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603 203, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
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An overview on the two recent decades’ study of peptides synthesis and biological activities in Iran. JOURNAL OF THE IRANIAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s13738-021-02312-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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11
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Zanjanchi P, Asghari SM, Mohabatkar H, Shourian M, Shafiee Ardestani M. Conjugation of VEGFR1/R2-targeting peptide with gold nanoparticles to enhance antiangiogenic and antitumoral activity. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:7. [PMID: 34983556 PMCID: PMC8725421 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-021-01198-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhibition of tumor angiogenesis through simultaneous targeting of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-1 and -2 is highly efficacious. An antagonist peptide of VEGFA/VEGFB, referred to as VGB3, can recognize and neutralize both VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 on the endothelial and tumoral cells, thereby inhibits angiogenesis and tumor growth. However, improved efficacy and extending injection intervals is required for its clinical translation. Given that gold nanoparticles (GNPs) can enhance the efficacy of biotherapeutics, we conjugated VGB3 to GNPs to enhance its efficacy and extends the intervals between treatments without adverse effects. RESULTS GNP-VGB3 bound to VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 in human umbilical vein endothelial (HUVE) and 4T1 mammary carcinoma cells. GNP-VGB3 induced cell cycle arrest, ROS overproduction and apoptosis and inhibited proliferation and migration of endothelial and tumor cells more effectively than unconjugated VGB3 or GNP. In a murine 4T1 mammary carcinoma tumor model, GNP-VGB3 more strongly than VGB3 and GNP inhibited tumor growth and metastasis, and increased animal survival without causing weight loss. The superior antitumor effects were associated with durable targeting of VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, thereby inhibiting signaling pathways of proliferation, migration, differentiation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and survival in tumor tissues. MicroCT imaging and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry showed that GNP-VGB3 specifically target tumors and exhibit greater accumulation within tumors than the free GNPs. CONCLUSION Conjugation to GNPs not only improved the efficacy of VGB3 peptide but also extended the intervals between treatments without adverse effects. These results suggest that GNP-VGB3 is a promising candidate for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pegah Zanjanchi
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, 8174673441, Iran
| | - S Mohsen Asghari
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran, Tehran, 1417614411, Iran.
| | - Hassan Mohabatkar
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, 8174673441, Iran.
| | - Mostafa Shourian
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, 4199613776, Iran
| | - Mehdi Shafiee Ardestani
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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12
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Kustiati U, Dewi Ratih TS, Dwi Aris Agung N, Kusindarta DL, Wihadmadyatami H. In silico molecular docking and in vitro analysis of ethanolic extract Ocimum sanctum Linn.: Inhibitory and apoptotic effects against non-small cell lung cancer. Vet World 2021; 14:3175-3187. [PMID: 35153410 PMCID: PMC8829409 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.3175-3187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Lung cancer, especially non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), has been identified as the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The mortality rate from lung cancer has been estimated to be 18.4%. Until now, conventional treatments have not yielded optimal results, thus necessitating an investigation into the use of traditional herbal plants as potential candidates for its treatment. This study aimed to determine the inhibitory and apoptotic activity of the ethanolic extract from Ocimum sanctum Linn. (EEOS) by in silico molecular docking and through in vitro studies using NSCLC cells (A549 cell line). Materials and Methods: Dried simplicia of Ocimum sanctum was converted into EEOS using the maceration method. Spectrophotometry was then employed to analyze the EEOS compound. The known main active compounds were further analyzed for inhibitory and apoptotic effects on gene signaling using in silico molecular docking involving the downloading of active compounds from PubChem and target proteins from the Protein Data Bank; the active compounds and proteins were then prepared using the Discovery Studio software v. 19.0.0 and the PyRX 0.8 program, interacted with the HEX 8.0.0 program, and visualized with the Discovery Studio Visualizer v. 19.0. Finally, an in vitro analysis was performed using an antiproliferative-cytotoxic test (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay in the NSCLC A549 cell line). Results: The analysis revealed that the active compounds in the ethanolic extract were dominated by quercetin (flavonoids) (47.23% b/b) and eugenol (phenolic) (12.14% b/b). These active compounds interacted with the active sites (residual amino acids) of the αvβ3 integrin, a5b1 integrin, caspase-3, caspase-9, and vascular endothelial growth factor. Hydrogen bonds and Pi-cation and Pi-alkyl interactions were involved in the relationships between the active compounds and the active sites and thus may reveal an antioxidant property of the extract. Furthermore, in vitro analysis showed the inhibitory and antiproliferative effects of the EEOS against non-small cell cancer (A549). Conclusion: Taken together, our data showed the ability of EEOS as an inhibitor and apoptotic agent for lung cancer; however, further research is needed to determine the exact mechanism of EEOS as an herbal medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulayatul Kustiati
- Post Graduate Student of Sain Veteriner, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - T. S. Dewi Ratih
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, and Research center of Smart Molecule of Natural Genetics Resources, Brawijaya University, Indonesia
| | - N. Dwi Aris Agung
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - Dwi Liliek Kusindarta
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - Hevi Wihadmadyatami
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
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13
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Wang L, Xu M, Hu H, Zhang L, Ye F, Jin J, Fang H, Chen J, Chen G, Broussy S, Vidal M, Lv Z, Liu WQ. A Cyclic Peptide Epitope of an Under-Explored VEGF-B Loop 1 Demonstrated In Vivo Anti-Angiogenic and Anti-Tumor Activities. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:734544. [PMID: 34658874 PMCID: PMC8511632 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.734544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological angiogenesis is mainly initiated by the binding of abnormal expressed vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) to their receptors (VEGFRs). Blocking the VEGF/VEGFR interaction is a clinically proven treatment in cancer. Our previous work by epitope scan had identified cyclic peptides, mimicking the loop 1 of VEGF-A, VEGF-B and placental growth factor (PlGF), inhibited effectively the VEGF/VEGFR interaction in ELISA. We described here the docking study of these peptides on VEGFR1 to identify their binding sites. The cellular anti-angiogenic activities were examined by inhibition of VEGF-A induced cell proliferation, migration and tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The ability of these peptides to inhibit MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway was examined as well. On chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model, a cyclic peptide named B-cL1 with most potent in vitro activity showed important in vivo anti-angiogenic effect. Finally, B-cL1 inhibited VEGF induced human gastric cancer SGC-7901 cells proliferation. It showed anti-tumoral effect on SGC-7901 xenografted BALB/c nude mouse model. The cyclic peptides B-cL1 constitutes an anti-angiogenic peptide drug lead for the design of new and more potent VEGFR antagonists in the treatment of angiogenesis related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meng Xu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haofeng Hu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lun Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fei Ye
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia Jin
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongming Fang
- Department of Oncology, Zhejiang Xiaoshan Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guiqian Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sylvain Broussy
- Université de Paris, CiTCoM-UMR 8038 CNRS, U 1268 INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Michel Vidal
- Université de Paris, CiTCoM-UMR 8038 CNRS, U 1268 INSERM, Paris, France.,Biologie du médicament, toxicologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Zhengbing Lv
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wang-Qing Liu
- Université de Paris, CiTCoM-UMR 8038 CNRS, U 1268 INSERM, Paris, France
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14
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Sadremomtaz A, Al-Dahmani ZM, Ruiz-Moreno AJ, Monti A, Wang C, Azad T, Bell JC, Doti N, Velasco-Velázquez MA, de Jong D, de Jonge J, Smit J, Dömling A, van Goor H, Groves MR. Synthetic Peptides That Antagonize the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE-2) Interaction with SARS-CoV-2 Receptor Binding Spike Protein. J Med Chem 2021; 65:2836-2847. [PMID: 34328726 PMCID: PMC8353989 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
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The SARS-CoV-2 viral
spike protein S receptor-binding domain (S-RBD)
binds ACE2 on host cells to initiate molecular events, resulting in
intracellular release of the viral genome. Therefore, antagonists
of this interaction could allow a modality for therapeutic intervention.
Peptides can inhibit the S-RBD:ACE2 interaction by interacting with
the protein–protein interface. In this study, protein contact
atlas data and molecular dynamics simulations were used to locate
interaction hotspots on the secondary structure elements α1,
α2, α3, β3, and β4 of ACE2. We designed a
library of discontinuous peptides based upon a combination of the
hotspot interactions, which were synthesized and screened in a bioluminescence-based
assay. The peptides demonstrated high efficacy in antagonizing the
SARS-CoV-2 S-RBD:ACE2 interaction and were validated by microscale
thermophoresis which demonstrated strong binding affinity (∼10
nM) of these peptides to S-RBD. We anticipate that such discontinuous
peptides may hold the potential for an efficient therapeutic treatment
for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Sadremomtaz
- XB20 Drug Design, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, 9700 AD Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Zayana M Al-Dahmani
- XB20 Drug Design, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, 9700 AD Groningen, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9700RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Angel J Ruiz-Moreno
- XB20 Drug Design, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, 9700 AD Groningen, The Netherlands.,Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (UNAM), Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico.,Unidad Periférica de Investigación en Biomedicina Translacional, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Félix Cuevas 540, Ciudad de Mexico 03229, Mexico.,Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico
| | - Alessandra Monti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB)-CNR, Via Mezzocannone, 16, 80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Chao Wang
- XB20 Drug Design, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, 9700 AD Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Taha Azad
- Center for Innovative Cancer Therapeutics, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, K1H 8L6 ON, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, K1H 8M5 ON, Canada
| | - John C Bell
- Center for Innovative Cancer Therapeutics, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, K1H 8L6 ON, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, K1H 8M5 ON, Canada
| | - Nunzianna Doti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB)-CNR, Via Mezzocannone, 16, 80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Marco A Velasco-Velázquez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (UNAM), Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico.,Unidad Periférica de Investigación en Biomedicina Translacional, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Félix Cuevas 540, Ciudad de Mexico 03229, Mexico.,Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico
| | - Debora de Jong
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9700RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jørgen de Jonge
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jolanda Smit
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9700RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander Dömling
- XB20 Drug Design, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, 9700 AD Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9700RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Matthew R Groves
- XB20 Drug Design, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, 9700 AD Groningen, The Netherlands
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15
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Ma YS, Liu JB, Yang XL, Xin R, Shi Y, Zhang DD, Wang HM, Wang PY, Lin QL, Li W, Fu D. Basic approaches, challenges and opportunities for the discovery of small molecule anti-tumor drugs. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:2386-2400. [PMID: 34249406 PMCID: PMC8263657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is one of the main treatments for cancer, especially for advanced cancer patients. In the past decade, significant progress has been made with the research into the molecular mechanisms of cancer cells and the precision medicine. The treatment on cancer patients has gradually changed from cytotoxic chemotherapy to precise treatment strategy. Research into anticancer drugs has also changed from killing effects on all cells to targeting drugs for target genes. Besides, researchers have developed the understanding of the abnormal physiological function, related genomics, epigenetics, and proteomics of cancer cells with cancer genome sequencing, epigenetic research, and proteomic research. These technologies and related research have accelerated the development of related cancer drugs. In this review, we summarize the research progress of anticancer drugs, the current challenges, and future opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Shui Ma
- National Engineering Laboratory for Deep Process of Rice and Byproducts, College of Food Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and TechnologyChangsha 410004, Hunan, China
- Cancer Institute, Nantong Tumor HospitalNantong 226631, China
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Ji-Bin Liu
- Cancer Institute, Nantong Tumor HospitalNantong 226631, China
| | - Xiao-Li Yang
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Rui Xin
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Yi Shi
- National Engineering Laboratory for Deep Process of Rice and Byproducts, College of Food Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and TechnologyChangsha 410004, Hunan, China
- Cancer Institute, Nantong Tumor HospitalNantong 226631, China
| | - Dan-Dan Zhang
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Hui-Min Wang
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Pei-Yao Wang
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Qin-Lu Lin
- National Engineering Laboratory for Deep Process of Rice and Byproducts, College of Food Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and TechnologyChangsha 410004, Hunan, China
| | - Wen Li
- National Engineering Laboratory for Deep Process of Rice and Byproducts, College of Food Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and TechnologyChangsha 410004, Hunan, China
| | - Da Fu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Deep Process of Rice and Byproducts, College of Food Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and TechnologyChangsha 410004, Hunan, China
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
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16
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Ma YS, Xin R, Yang XL, Shi Y, Zhang DD, Wang HM, Wang PY, Liu JB, Chu KJ, Fu D. Paving the way for small-molecule drug discovery. Am J Transl Res 2021; 13:853-870. [PMID: 33841626 PMCID: PMC8014367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Small-molecule drugs are organic compounds affecting molecular pathways by targeting important proteins, which have a low molecular weight, making them penetrate cells easily. Small-molecule drugs can be developed from leads derived from rational drug design or isolated from natural resources. As commonly used medications, small-molecule drugs can be taken orally, which enter cells to act on intracellular targets. These characteristics make small-molecule drugs promising candidates for drug development, and they are increasingly favored in the pharmaceutical market. Despite the advancements in molecular genetics and effective new processes in drug development, the drugs currently used in clinical practice are inadequate due to their poor efficacy or severe side effects. Therefore, developing new safe and efficient drugs is a top priority for disease control and curing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Shui Ma
- National Engineering Laboratory for Deep Process of Rice and Byproducts, College of Food Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and TechnologyChangsha 410004, Hunan, China
- Cancer Institute, Nantong Tumor HospitalNantong 226631, China
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Rui Xin
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Xiao-Li Yang
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Yi Shi
- Cancer Institute, Nantong Tumor HospitalNantong 226631, China
| | - Dan-Dan Zhang
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Hui-Min Wang
- Cancer Institute, Nantong Tumor HospitalNantong 226631, China
| | - Pei-Yao Wang
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
| | - Ji-Bin Liu
- Cancer Institute, Nantong Tumor HospitalNantong 226631, China
| | - Kai-Jian Chu
- Department of Biliary Tract Surgery I, Third Affiliated Hospital of Second Military Medical UniversityShanghai 200438, China
| | - Da Fu
- Central Laboratory for Medical Research, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai 200072, China
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