1
|
Vankadara S, Ke Z, Wang S, Foo SY, Gunaratne J, Lee MA, Koh X, Chia CSB. Cytotoxic activity and cell specificity of a novel LHRH peptide drug conjugate, D-Cys6-LHRH vedotin, against ovarian cancer cell lines. Chem Biol Drug Des 2024; 103:e14516. [PMID: 38618710 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14516] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most deadly female gynaecological malignancy in developed countries and new treatments are urgently needed. The luteinising hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) peptide drug conjugate Zoptarelin doxorubicin is one such potential new drug modality that entered clinical trials for treating LHRH receptor-positive gynaecological cancers. However, development stopped after disappointing Phase 3 results in 2017. We believe the lack of efficacy was due to linker instability and payload potency. In this work, we replaced its linker-toxin with vedotin (MC-VC-PABC-MMAE), yielding the novel peptide drug conjugate D-Cys6-LHRH vedotin. A GI50 and cell specificity comparison against cancerous and non-cancerous ovarian cell lines showed significantly superior bioactivity and selectivity over Zoptarelin doxorubicin (GI50 4 vs. 453 nM) and other chemotherapeutic drugs used for treating ovarian cancers. Our results suggest D-Cys6-LHRH vedotin can potentially be used as a treatment for ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subramanyam Vankadara
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Zhiyuan Ke
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Sifang Wang
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Sin Yun Foo
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jayantha Gunaratne
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, 4 Medical Drive, MD10, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - May Ann Lee
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Xiaoying Koh
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - C S Brian Chia
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Desaulniers AT, White BR. Role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone 2 and its receptor in human reproductive cancers. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1341162. [PMID: 38260130 PMCID: PMC10800933 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1341162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH1) and its receptor (GnRHR1) drive reproduction by regulating gonadotropins. Another form, GnRH2, and its receptor (GnRHR2), also exist in mammals. In humans, GnRH2 and GnRHR2 genes are present, but coding errors in the GnRHR2 gene are predicted to hinder full-length protein production. Nonetheless, mounting evidence supports the presence of a functional GnRHR2 in humans. GnRH2 and its receptor have been identified throughout the body, including peripheral reproductive tissues like the ovary, uterus, breast, and prostate. In addition, GnRH2 and its receptor have been detected in a wide number of reproductive cancer cells in humans. Notably, GnRH2 analogues have potent anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, and/or anti-metastatic effects on various reproductive cancers, including endometrial, breast, placental, ovarian, and prostate. Thus, GnRH2 is an emerging target to treat human reproductive cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy T. Desaulniers
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Brett R. White
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Barczyński B, Frąszczak K, Wertel I, Zakrzewska E, Zdunek M, Szumiło J, Kotarski J. Immunohistochemical Expression of LHRH Receptor in Different Compartments of Female Genital Tract in Patients With Endometrial Cancer. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2022; 30:509-516. [PMID: 35777983 DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000001046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone receptor (LHRHR) expression has been reported in various cancers, including endometrial neoplasms. Thus, LHRHR provides a potential point for therapeutic approach using LHRH analogs as carrier molecules for chemotherapeutic agents in this cancer population. However, clinical data did not prove any potential benefits for patients. We decided to assess LHRHR expression in patients with endometrial cancer to explain possible lack of efficacy in previous clinical reports. LHRHR expression was assessed immunohistochemically in different anatomic and histogenetic compartments of female genital tract of patients with endometrial cancer. The study sample consisted of paraffin tissue blocks obtained from patients who has undergone primary surgery owing to endometrial cancer. Strong LHRHR expression was found in endometrial cancer, fallopian tube, and concurrent atypical hyperplasia. Interestingly, LHRHR expression showed significant differences depending on the respective compartment of the ovary analyzed. Level of LHRHR expression in patients with primary advanced and unresectable disease, particularly in certain ovarian compartments may be substantially lower, which may influence the use of new targeted therapy regimens. The studies on secondary Müllerian system compartment and its hormonal receptor status may be crucial to understand mechanisms of lack of efficacy of LHRH hybrid molecules anti-cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Iwona Wertel
- First Department of Oncological Gynaecology and Gynaecology
- Independent Laboratory of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, First Department of Oncological Gynaecology and Gynaecology
| | | | - Małgorzata Zdunek
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Medical University in Lublin
| | - Justyna Szumiło
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Medical University in Lublin
| | - Jan Kotarski
- First Department of Oncological Gynaecology and Gynaecology
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Antitumor Activity and Mechanism of Action of Hormonotoxin, an LHRH Analog Conjugated to Dermaseptin-B2, a Multifunctional Antimicrobial Peptide. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111303. [PMID: 34768734 PMCID: PMC8582938 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. For patients with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer, available treatments can slow down its progression but cannot cure it. The development of innovative drugs resulting from the exploration of biodiversity could open new therapeutic alternatives. Dermaseptin-B2, a natural multifunctional antimicrobial peptide isolated from Amazonian frog skin, has been reported to possess antitumor activity. To improve its pharmacological properties and to decrease its peripheral toxicity and lethality we developed a hormonotoxin molecule composed of dermaseptin-B2 combined with d-Lys6-LHRH to target the LHRH receptor. This hormonotoxin has a significant antiproliferative effect on the PC3 tumor cell line, with an IC50 value close to that of dermaseptin-B2. Its antitumor activity has been confirmed in vivo in a xenograft mouse model with PC3 tumors and appears to be better tolerated than dermaseptin-B2. Biophysical experiments showed that the addition of LHRH to dermaseptin-B2 did not alter its secondary structure or biological activity. The combination of different experimental approaches indicated that this hormonotoxin induces cell death by an apoptotic mechanism instead of necrosis, as observed for dermaseptin-B2. These results could explain the lower toxicity observed for this hormonotoxin compared to dermaseptin-B2 and may represent a promising targeting approach for cancer therapy.
Collapse
|
5
|
Li H, Liu Y, Wang Y, Zhao X, Qi X. Hormone therapy for ovarian cancer: Emphasis on mechanisms and applications (Review). Oncol Rep 2021; 46:223. [PMID: 34435651 PMCID: PMC8424487 DOI: 10.3892/or.2021.8174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) remains the leading cause of mortality due to gynecological malignancies. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that steroid hormones released from the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis can play a role in stimulating or inhibiting OC progression, with gonadotropins, estrogens and androgens promoting OC progression, while gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and progesterone may be protective factors in OC. Experimental studies have indicated that hormone receptors are expressed in OC cells and mediate the growth stimulatory or growth inhibitory effects of hormones on these cells. Hormone therapy agents have been evaluated in a number of clinical trials. The majority of these trials were conducted in patients with relapsed or refractory OC with average efficacy and limited side-effects. A better understanding of the mechanisms through which hormones affect cell growth may improve the efficacy of hormone therapy. In the present review article, the role of hormones (GnRH, gonadotropins, androgens, estrogens and progestins) and their receptors in OC tumorigenesis, and hormonal therapy in OC treatment is discussed and summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyi Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children and Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children and Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yang Wang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children and Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xiaorong Qi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children and Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sp B, J P, Mp K, Im R. Long-term effect of repeated deslorelin acetate treatment in bitches for reproduction control. Theriogenology 2021; 173:73-82. [PMID: 34339906 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.07.015] [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: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Long-acting gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs, which are approved for male dogs and ferrets, have been used off-label to suppress estrus in bitches predisposed to the side effects of spaying. Health data from the past 12 years were evaluated from bitches without progestogen pretreatment that received deslorelin acetate (DA) to suppress estrus for the first time before the age of 4.5 years. The study population included 32 client-owned bitches repeatedly treated with either 4.7 mg or 9.4 mg DA implants for a period of 5.3 ± 3.4 years (range 0.5-11.3 years). Follow-up information concerning immediate side effects of DA occurring within five months after the first DA treatment (n = 23) as well as long-term side effects of sustained gonadal suppression occurring after five months up to three years (n = 2), three years up to five years (n = 2) or more than five years (n = 8) were assessed through a questionnaire. Treatment was considered successful if no major side effects requiring medical treatment occurred, which applied to 26 out of 32 (81 %) bitches. In the six remaining bitches, the following major side effects led to treatment discontinuation: persistent urinary incontinence (n = 1), reoccurring induced heat (n = 1), uterine disease (n = 3) and/or ovarian tumor (n = 3). The bitches recovered completely after surgical spaying and/or DA implant removal. Minor side effects that did not require therapy or affect animal welfare included body weight changes (n = 18), subtle behavioral changes (n = 13), induced heat (n = 12), coat changes (n = 11), pseudocyesis (n = 6), transient urinary incontinence (n = 4), and/or temporary thickening of the uterine wall with little anechogenic content (n = 2). To examine a possible causal relationship between adverse side effects and DA treatment, further studies should compare the frequency of pathologies between groups of GnRH-treated, intact and spayed bitches of similar breeds and ages. Nevertheless, DA application before the age of 4.5 years may be a means of postponing surgical spaying for several years in breeds at high risk for developing urinary incontinence. Before DA is used in bitches, owners should be fully informed regarding possible side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brändli Sp
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Palm J
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kowalewski Mp
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Reichler Im
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Role of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) in Ovarian Cancer. Cells 2021; 10:cells10020437. [PMID: 33670761 PMCID: PMC7922220 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis is the endocrine regulation system that controls the woman’s cycle. The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) plays the central role. In addition to the gonadotrophic cells of the pituitary, GnRH receptors are expressed in other reproductive organs, such as the ovary and in tumors originating from the ovary. In ovarian cancer, GnRH is involved in the regulation of proliferation and metastasis. The effects on ovarian tumors can be indirect or direct. GnRH acts indirectly via the HPG axis and directly via GnRH receptors on the surface of ovarian cancer cells. In this systematic review, we will give an overview of the role of GnRH in ovarian cancer development, progression and therapy.
Collapse
|
8
|
The Role of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) in Endometrial Cancer. Cells 2021; 10:cells10020292. [PMID: 33535622 PMCID: PMC7912811 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most common gynecological malignancies. Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) is a decapeptide first described to be secreted by the hypothalamus to regulate pituitary gonadotropin secretion. In this systematic review, we analyze and summarize the data indicating that most EC express GnRH and its receptor (GnRH-R) as part of an autocrine system regulating proliferation, the cell cycle, and apoptosis. We analyze the available data on the expression and function of GnRH-II, its putative receptor, and its signal transduction. GnRH-I and GnRH-II agonists, and antagonists as well as cytotoxic GnRH-I analogs, have been shown to inhibit proliferation and to induce apoptosis in human EC cell lines in pre-clinical models. Treatment with conventional doses of GnRH-agonists that suppress pituitary gonadotropin secretion and ovarian estrogen production has become part of fertility preserving therapy of early EC or its pre-cancer (atypical endometrial hyperplasia). Conventional doses of GnRH-agonists had marginal activity in advanced or recurrent EC. Higher doses or more potent analogs including GnRH-II antagonists have not yet been used clinically. The cytotoxic GnRH-analog Zoptarelin Doxorubicin has shown encouraging activity in a phase II trial in patients with advanced or recurrent EC, which expressed GnRH-R. In a phase III trial in patients with EC of unknown GnRH-R expression, the cytotoxic GnRH doxorubicin conjugate was not superior to free doxorubicin. Further well-designed clinical trials exploiting the GnRH-system in EC might be useful.
Collapse
|
9
|
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Receptors in Prostate Cancer: Molecular Aspects and Biological Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249511. [PMID: 33327545 PMCID: PMC7765031 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pituitary Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone receptors (GnRH-R) mediate the activity of the hypothalamic decapeptide GnRH, thus playing a key role in the regulation of the reproductive axis. Early-stage prostate cancer (PCa) is dependent on serum androgen levels, and androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT), based on GnRH agonists and antagonists, represents the standard therapeutic approach for PCa patients. Unfortunately, the tumor often progresses towards the more aggressive castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) stage. GnRH receptors are also expressed in CRPC tissues, where their binding to both GnRH agonists and antagonists is associated with significant antiproliferative/proapoptotic, antimetastatic and antiangiogenic effects, mediated by the Gαi/cAMP signaling cascade. GnRH agonists and antagonists are now considered as an effective therapeutic strategy for CRPC patients with many clinical trials demonstrating that the combined use of these drugs with standard therapies (i.e., docetaxel, enzalutamide, abiraterone) significantly improves disease-free survival. In this context, GnRH-based bioconjugates (cytotoxic drugs covalently linked to a GnRH-based decapeptide) have been recently developed. The rationale of this treatment is that the GnRH peptide selectively binds to its receptors, delivering the cytotoxic drug to CRPC cells while sparing nontumor cells. Some of these compounds have already entered clinical trials.
Collapse
|
10
|
Fodor K, Dobos N, Schally A, Steiber Z, Olah G, Sipos E, Szekvolgyi L, Halmos G. The targeted LHRH analog AEZS-108 alters expression of genes related to angiogenesis and development of metastasis in uveal melanoma. Oncotarget 2020; 11:175-187. [PMID: 32010430 PMCID: PMC6968782 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common malignant tumor of the eye. Recently, we have established that 46% of UM specimens express LHRH receptors. This finding supports the idea of a LHRH receptor-targeted therapy of UM patients. Cytotoxic analog of LHRH, AEZS-108 exhibits effective anti-cancer activity in LHRH-receptor positive cancers. AEZS-108 is a hybrid molecule, composed of a synthetic peptide carrier and the cytotoxic doxorubicin (DOX). In the present study, we investigated AEZS-108 induced cytotoxicity and the altered mRNA expression profile of regulatory factors related to angiogenesis and metastasis in LHRH receptor positive OCM3 cells. Our results show that AEZS-108 upregulates the expression of MASPIN/SERPINB5 tumor suppressor gene, which is downregulated in normal uvea and UM specimens independently from the LHRH receptor-ligand interaction. AEZS-108 also substantially downregulates hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1A) expression. In order to investigate the mechanism of the induction of MASPIN by AEZS-108, OCM3 cells were treated with free DOX, D-Lys6 LHRH analog, or AEZS-108. qRT- PCR analysis revealed in OCM3 cells that AEZS-108 is a more potent inducer of MASPIN than free DOX. In conclusion, we show for the first time that AEZS-108 has a major impact in the regulation of angiogenesis thus plays a potential role in tumor suppression. Taken together, our results support the development of novel therapeutic strategies for UM focusing on LHRH receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Klara Fodor
- University of Debrecen, Department of Biopharmacy, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Nikoletta Dobos
- University of Debrecen, Department of Biopharmacy, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Andrew Schally
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Insitute, Miami, FL, USA.,University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Department of Pathology and Department of Medicine, Divisions of Oncology and Endocrinology, Sylvester Comprehensive Center, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Zita Steiber
- University of Debrecen, Department of Ophthalmology, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gabor Olah
- University of Debrecen, Department of Biopharmacy, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Eva Sipos
- University of Debrecen, Department of Biopharmacy, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Lorant Szekvolgyi
- University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, MTA-DE Momentum, Genome Architecture and Recombination Research Group, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gabor Halmos
- University of Debrecen, Department of Biopharmacy, Debrecen, Hungary.,Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Insitute, Miami, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Levy A, Leynes C, Baig M, Chew SA. The Application of Biomaterials in the Treatment of Platinum‐Resistant Ovarian Cancer. ChemMedChem 2019; 14:1810-1827. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201900450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arkene Levy
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medical Sciences Nova Southeastern University 3200 South University Drive Davie FL 33328 USA
| | - Carolina Leynes
- Department Health and Biomedical Sciences University of Texas Rio Grande Valley One West University Boulevard Brownsville TX 78520 USA
| | - Mirza Baig
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine Nova Southeastern University 3200 South University Drive Davie FL 33328 USA
| | - Sue Anne Chew
- Department Health and Biomedical Sciences University of Texas Rio Grande Valley One West University Boulevard Brownsville TX 78520 USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kim JW, Yadav DK, Kim SJ, Lee MY, Park JM, Kim BS, Kim MH, Park HG, Kang KW. Anti-cancer effect of GV1001 for prostate cancer: function as a ligand of GnRHR. Endocr Relat Cancer 2019; 26:147-162. [PMID: 30400054 DOI: 10.1530/erc-18-0454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
GV1001, a 16-amino acid fragment of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase catalytic subunit (hTERT), has been developed as an injectable formulation of cancer vaccine. Here, we revealed for the first time that GV1001 is a novel ligand for gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR). The docking prediction for GV1001 against GnRHR showed high binding affinity. Binding of GV1001 to GnRHR stimulated the Gαs-coupled cAMP signaling pathway and antagonized Gαq-coupled Ca2+ release by leuprolide acetate (LA), a GnRHR agonist. Repeated injection of GV1001 attenuated both serum testosterone level and seminal vesicle weight via desensitization of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. We then tested whether GV1001 has an inhibitory effect on tumor growth of LNCaP cells, androgen receptor-positive human prostate cancer (PCa) cells. GV1001 significantly inhibited tumor growth and induced apoptosis in LNCaP-implanted xenografts. Interestingly, mRNA expressions of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and matrix metalloproteinase 9 were suppressed by GV1001, but not by LA. Moreover, GV1001 significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of PCa cells and induced apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner. Our findings suggest that GV1001 functions as a biased GnRHR ligand to selectively stimulate the Gαs/cAMP pathway, with anti-proliferative and anti-migratory effects on human PCa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ji Won Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dharmendra K Yadav
- Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science & Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Science, Jodhpur, India
| | - Soo Jin Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Moo-Yeol Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Min Park
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Bum Seok Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University, Iksan, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Hyun Kim
- Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science & Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeung-Geun Park
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Keon Wook Kang
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Li S, Zhao H, Chang X, Wang J, Zhao E, Yin Z, Mao X, Deng S, Hao T, Wang H, Yang Y. Synthesis, in vitro stability, and antiproliferative effect of d-cysteine modified GnRH-doxorubicin conjugates. J Pept Sci 2018; 25:e3135. [PMID: 30467919 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 09/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Overexpression of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor in many tumors but not in normal tissues makes it possible to use GnRH analogs as targeting peptides for selective delivery of cytotoxic agents, which may help to enhance the uptake of anticancer drugs by cancer cells and reduce toxicity to normal cells. The GnRH analogs [d-Cys6 , desGly10 , Pro9 -NH2 ]-GnRH, [d-Cys6 , desGly10 , Pro9 -NHEt]-GnRH, and [d-Cys6 , α-aza-Gly10 -NH2 ]-GnRH were conjugated with doxorubicin (Dox), respectively, through N-succinimidyl-3-maleimidopropionate as a linker to afford three new GnRH-Dox conjugates. The metabolic stability of these conjugates in human serum was determined by RP-HPLC. The antiproliferative activity of the conjugates was examined in GnRH receptor-positive MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line by MTT assay. The three GnRH-Dox conjugates showed improved metabolic stability in human serum in comparison with AN-152. The antiproliferative effect of conjugate II ([d-Cys6 , desGly10 , Pro9 -NHEt]-GnRH-Dox) on MCF-7 cells was higher than that of conjugate I ([d-Cys6 , desGly10 , Pro9 -NH2 ]-GnRH-Dox) and conjugate III ([d-Cys6 , α-aza-Gly10 -NH2 ]-GnRH-Dox), and the cytotoxicity of conjugate II against GnRH receptor-negative 3T3 mouse embryo fibroblast cells was decreased in comparison with free Dox. GnRH receptor inhibition test suggested that the antiproliferative activity of conjugate II might be due to the cellular uptake mediated by the targeting binding of [d-Cys6 -des-Gly10 -Pro9 -NHEt]-GnRH to GnRH receptors. Our study indicates that targeting delivery of conjugate II mediated by [d-Cys6 -des-Gly10 -Pro9 -NHEt]-GnRH is a promising strategy for chemotherapy of tumors that overexpress GnRH receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Songtao Li
- Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Hongling Zhao
- Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Xiaomin Chang
- Department of Immunology, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Jianping Wang
- Department of Immunology, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Enhong Zhao
- The Third Department of Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Zhifeng Yin
- Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Xiaoxia Mao
- Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Shuhua Deng
- Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Ting Hao
- Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Huina Wang
- Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| | - Yaqi Yang
- Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Liang Z, Lu Z, Zhang Y, Shang D, Li R, Liu L, Zhao Z, Zhang P, Lin Q, Feng C, Zhang Y, Liu P, Tu Z, Liu H. Targeting Membrane Receptors of Ovarian Cancer Cells for Therapy. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2018; 19:449-467. [PMID: 30306870 DOI: 10.2174/1568009618666181010091246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide from gynecological malignancies, mainly because there are few early symptoms and the disease is generally diagnosed at an advanced stage. In addition, despite the effectiveness of cytoreductive surgery for ovarian cancer and the high response rates to chemotherapy, survival has improved little over the last 20 years. The management of patients with ovarian cancer also remains similar despite studies showing striking differences and heterogeneity among different subtypes. It is therefore clear that novel targeted therapeutics are urgently needed to improve clinical outcomes for ovarian cancer. To that end, several membrane receptors associated with pivotal cellular processes and often aberrantly overexpressed in ovarian cancer cells have emerged as potential targets for receptor-mediated therapeutic strategies including specific agents and multifunctional delivery systems based on ligand-receptor binding. This review focuses on the profiles and potentials of such strategies proposed for ovarian cancer treatment and imaging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiquan Liang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Ziwen Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Yafei Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Dongsheng Shang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Ruyan Li
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Lanlan Liu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Zhicong Zhao
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Peishan Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Qiong Lin
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Chunlai Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Yibang Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Peng Liu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Zhigang Tu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Hanqing Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Targeting luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone: A potential therapeutics to treat gynecological and other cancers. J Control Release 2018; 269:277-301. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 11/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
|
16
|
Makker V, Green AK, Wenham RM, Mutch D, Davidson B, Miller DS. New therapies for advanced, recurrent, and metastatic endometrial cancers. GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2017; 4:19. [PMID: 29214032 PMCID: PMC5712183 DOI: 10.1186/s40661-017-0056-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy in the United States, accounting for 6% of cancers in women. In 2017, an estimated 61,380 women were diagnosed with endometrial cancer, and approximately 11,000 died from this disease. From 1987 to 2008, there was a 50% increase in the incidence of endometrial cancer, with an approximate 300% increase in the number of associated deaths. Although there are many chemotherapeutic and targeted therapy agents approved for ovarian, fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancers, since the 1971 approval of megestrol acetate for the palliative treatment of advanced endometrial cancer, only pembrolizumab has been Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved for high microsatellite instability (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) endometrial cancer; this highlights the need for new therapies to treat advanced, recurrent, metastatic endometrial cancer. In this review, we discuss current and emerging treatment options for endometrial cancer, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) and others are now focusing their efforts on the design of scientifically rational targeted therapy and immunotherapy trials for specific molecular phenotypes of endometrial cancer. This is essential for the advancement of cancer care for women, which is threatened by a severe enrollment decline of approximately 80% for gynecologic oncology clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vicky Makker
- Gynecologic Medical Oncology Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical College, 1275 York Avenue, New York, TX 10065 USA
| | - Angela K Green
- Gynecologic Medical Oncology Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical College, 1275 York Avenue, New York, TX 10065 USA
| | - Robert M Wenham
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL USA
| | - David Mutch
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO USA
| | - Brittany Davidson
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC USA
| | - David Scott Miller
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Corona SP, Roviello G, Strina C, Milani M, Allevi G, Aguggini S, Zanoni D, Generali D. Could gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs be helpful in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer? Future Oncol 2017; 13:2473-2477. [PMID: 29121807 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2017-0272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) imposes great challenges, due to a lack of molecular targets. While use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs has been validated in ER-positive breast cancer, this option has not been investigated in TNBC, even though a significant portion of these tumors upregulate GnRH receptors. We performed a meta-analysis of the literature to evaluate the effect of GnRH analogs in TNBC. METHODS Four studies were included in this study. RESULTS We detected a non-significant improvement in overall survival with GnRH analogs, while progression-free survival was unchanged. DISCUSSION The majority of the trials evaluated in this analysis were designed to test efficacy of GnRH analogs in preventing premature ovarian failure. This may represent a limitation of our study as these trials were not specifically designed to detect differences in survival outcome measures. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that GnRH analogs may be useful as a targeted therapy in TNBC. Randomized prospective clinical trials are needed to investigate this hypothesis in the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Paola Corona
- Peter Mac Callum Cancer Centre, Moorabbin Campus, 823-865 Centre Rd, Bentleigh East, VIC 3165, Australia
| | - Giandomenico Roviello
- Department of Medical, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Piazza Ospitale 1, Trieste, 34129, Italy.,Department of Oncology, Medical Oncology Unit, San Donato Hospital, Arezzo, 52100, Italy
| | - Carla Strina
- UO Multidisciplinare di Patologia Mammaria, US Terapia Molecolare e Farmacogenomica, ASST Cremona, Viale Concordia 1, Cremona, 26100, Italy
| | - Manuela Milani
- UO Multidisciplinare di Patologia Mammaria, US Terapia Molecolare e Farmacogenomica, ASST Cremona, Viale Concordia 1, Cremona, 26100, Italy
| | - Giovanni Allevi
- UO Multidisciplinare di Patologia Mammaria, US Terapia Molecolare e Farmacogenomica, ASST Cremona, Viale Concordia 1, Cremona, 26100, Italy
| | - Sergio Aguggini
- UO Multidisciplinare di Patologia Mammaria, US Terapia Molecolare e Farmacogenomica, ASST Cremona, Viale Concordia 1, Cremona, 26100, Italy
| | - Daniele Zanoni
- UO Multidisciplinare di Patologia Mammaria, US Terapia Molecolare e Farmacogenomica, ASST Cremona, Viale Concordia 1, Cremona, 26100, Italy
| | - Daniele Generali
- Department of Medical, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Piazza Ospitale 1, Trieste, 34129, Italy.,UO Multidisciplinare di Patologia Mammaria, US Terapia Molecolare e Farmacogenomica, ASST Cremona, Viale Concordia 1, Cremona, 26100, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ye H, Liu X, Sun J, Zhu S, Zhu Y, Chang S. Enhanced therapeutic efficacy of LHRHa-targeted brucea javanica oil liposomes for ovarian cancer. BMC Cancer 2016; 16:831. [PMID: 27793127 PMCID: PMC5086058 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-016-2870-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although brucea javanica oil liposomes (BJOLs) have been used clinically to treat ovarian cancer, its clinical efficacy is often limited by systemic side effects due to non-specific distribution. Luteinizing hormone releasing hormone receptor (LHRHR) is overexpressed in most ovarian cancers but negligibly expressed in most of the other visceral organs. In this study, we aimed to develop a novel LHRHa targeted and BJO-loaded liposomes (LHRHa-BJOLs), and investigate its characteristics, targeting ability and anti-ovarian cancer efficiency both in vitro and in vivo. Methods The LHRHa-BJOLs were prepared by film-dispersion and biotin-streptavidin linkage methods, and characterized in terms of its morphology, particle size, zeta potential, ligand conjugation, encapsulation efficiency and stability. The targeting nature and antitumor effects of the liposomes were evaluated in vitro using cultured human ovarian cancer A2780/DDP cells, and in vivo using ovarian cancer-bearing nude mice. Results The LHRHa-BJOLs were successfully synthesized, with a uniformly spherical shape, appropriate particle size and zeta potential, as well as a high encapsulation efficiency. Compared to non-targeted liposomes and BJO emulsion, the LHRHa-BJOLs could significantly increase specific intracellular uptaking rate, enhance cell inhibitory effect and induce cell apoptosis in A2780/DDP cells in vitro. Meanwhile, LHRHa-BJOLs also had a significantly stronger activity of targeting tumor tissue, inhibiting tumor growth, inducing tumor apoptosis and prolonging survival time in ovarian cancer-bearing mice in vivo. Conclusions Our experiment suggests that LHRHa-BJOLs may be a useful targeted drug for the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongxia Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 74 Linjiang Road, Yuzhong district, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Xiaojuan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 74 Linjiang Road, Yuzhong district, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Jiangchuan Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 74 Linjiang Road, Yuzhong district, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Shenyin Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong district, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 74 Linjiang Road, Yuzhong district, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Shufang Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 74 Linjiang Road, Yuzhong district, Chongqing, 400010, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Schumann C, Chan S, Khalimonchuk O, Khal S, Moskal V, Shah V, Alani AWG, Taratula O, Taratula O. Mechanistic Nanotherapeutic Approach Based on siRNA-Mediated DJ-1 Protein Suppression for Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Cancer. Mol Pharm 2016; 13:2070-83. [PMID: 27170529 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.6b00205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We report an efficient therapeutic modality for platinum resistant ovarian cancer based on siRNA-mediated suppression of a multifunctional DJ-1 protein that is responsible for the proliferation, growth, invasion, oxidative stress, and overall survival of various cancers. The developed therapeutic strategy can work alone or in concert with a low dose of the first line chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin, to elicit a maximal therapeutic response. To achieve an efficient DJ-1 knockdown, we constructed the polypropylenimine dendrimer-based nanoplatform targeted to LHRH receptors overexpressed on ovarian cancer cells. The quantitative PCR and Western immunoblotting analysis revealed that the delivered DJ-1 siRNA downregulated the expression of targeted mRNA and corresponding protein by more than 80% in various ovarian cancer cells. It was further demonstrated that siRNA-mediated DJ-1 suppression dramatically impaired proliferation, viability, and migration of the employed ovarian cancer cells. Finally, the combinatorial approach led to the most pronounced therapeutic response in all the studied cell lines, outperforming both siRNA-mediated DJ-1 knockdown and cisplatin treatment alone. It is noteworthy that the platinum-resistant cancer cells (A2780/CDDP) with the highest basal level of DJ-1 protein are most susceptible to the developed therapy and this susceptibility declines with decreasing basal levels of DJ-1. Finally, we interrogate the molecular underpinnings of the DJ-1 knockdown effects in the treatment of the ovarian cancer cells. By using various experimental techniques, it was revealed that DJ-1 depletion (1) decreases the activity of the Akt pathway, thereby reducing cellular proliferation and migration and increasing the antiproliferative effect of cisplatin on ovarian cancer cells; (2) enhances the activity of p53 tumor suppressor protein therefore restoring cell cycle arrest functionality and upregulating the Bax-caspase pathway, triggering cell death; and (3) weakens the cellular defense mechanisms against inherited oxidative stress thereby increasing toxic intracellular radicals and amplifying the reactive oxygen species created by the administration of cisplatin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Canan Schumann
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University , Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Stephanie Chan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University , Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Oleh Khalimonchuk
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Shannon Khal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University , Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Vitaliya Moskal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University , Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Vidhi Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University , Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Adam W G Alani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University , Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Olena Taratula
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University , Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Oleh Taratula
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University , Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Li W, Zhang L, Zhu Y, Zhang J, Shen L, Huang S, Fang S. Improving ovarian cancer imaging with LHRH-NBs: an experimental study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2016; 294:631-8. [PMID: 27075493 PMCID: PMC4981623 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-016-4092-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Our previous study used freeze-drying and biotin–avidin binding methods and obtained nontargeted nanobubbles (N-NBs) and ovarian cancer-targeting nanobubbles (LHRH-NBs, luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone nanobubbles). Our study also identified the physical and chemical properties of these two contrast agents, and validated the targeting ability and underlying mechanisms of LHRH-NBs in vitro. The present study investigated the imaging of N-NBs and LHRH-NBs in nude mice and their binding with tissues. Methods The nude mice models of xenografts were divided into three groups, N-NB, LHRH-NB, and SonoVue. These contrast agents were injected via the caudal vein to observe the imaging of ovarian cancer. Fluorescence microscope was used to observe the penetration of N-NBs and LHRH-NBs through the vascular endothelial gaps. Immunofluorescence was used to observe the penetration of N-NBs and LHRH-NBs through vascular endothelial gaps and binding to the tumor cells. Results The imaging intensity and duration were not significantly different between N-NBs and LHRH-NBs. The imaging intensity in the N-NB and LHRH-NB groups was not significantly different compared with the SonoVue group; however, the imaging duration in the N-NB and LHRH-NB groups was significantly longer than in the SonoVue group (P < 0.001). Both N-NBs and LHRH-NBs penetrated through the vascular endothelial gaps. After penetrating through the vascular endothelial gapes, LHRH-NBs could target and bind to the tumor cells. Conclusions N-NBs and LHRH-NBs are of good imaging effectiveness and relatively long imaging duration. LHRH-NB is a potent contrast agent for imaging ovarian cancer, while achieving targeted delivery of drugs to the site of ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Wuxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Wuxi, 214002, Jiangshu, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingping Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shenzhen Baoan Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Shenzhen, 518133, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanfang Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shenzhen Baoan Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Shenzhen, 518133, Guangdong, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jinyi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuying Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanyu Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Voutsadakis IA. Hormone Receptors in Serous Ovarian Carcinoma: Prognosis, Pathogenesis, and Treatment Considerations. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-ONCOLOGY 2016; 10:17-25. [PMID: 27053923 PMCID: PMC4814131 DOI: 10.4137/cmo.s32813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
A few breakthroughs have been accomplished for the treatment of ovarian cancer, the most deadly gynecologic carcinoma, in the current era of targeted oncologic treatment. The estrogen receptor was the first target of such treatments with the introduction of tamoxifen four decades ago in breast cancer therapeutics. Attempts to duplicate the success of hormonal therapies in ovarian cancer met with mixed results, which may be due to an inferior degree of hormone dependency in this cancer. Alternatively, this may be due to the failure to clearly identify the subsets of ovarian cancer with hormone sensitivity. This article reviews the expression of hormone receptors by ovarian cancer cells, the prognostic value of these expressions, and their predictive capacity for response to hormonal agents. The possible ways ahead are briefly discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis A Voutsadakis
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Sault Area Hospital, Sault Ste Marie, ON, Canada.; Division of Clinical Sciences, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Aguilar-Rojas A, Pérez-Solis MA, Maya-Núñez G. The gonadotropin-releasing hormone system: Perspectives from reproduction to cancer (Review). Int J Oncol 2016; 48:861-8. [PMID: 26783137 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2016.3346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, an increasing amount of evidence indicates that human gonadotropin-releasing hormone (hGnRH) and its receptor (hGnRHR) are important regulatory components not only to the reproduction process but also in the regulation of some cancer cell functions such as cell proliferation, in both hormone-dependent and -independent types of tumors. The hGnRHR is a naturally misfolded protein that is retained mostly in the endoplasmic reticulum; however, this mechanism can be overcome by treatment with several pharmacoperones, therefore, increasing the amount of receptors in the cell membrane. In addition, several reports indicate that the expression level of hGnRHR in tumor cells is even lower than in pituitary or gonadotrope cells. The signal transduction pathways activated by hGnRH in both gonadotrope and different cancer cell types are described in the present review. We also discuss how the rescue of misfolded receptors in tumor cells could be a promising strategy for cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Aguilar-Rojas
- Research Unit in Reproductive Medicine, Health Research Council, Hospital de Gineco-Obstetricia 'Luis Castelazo Ayala', Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico 01090, D.F., Mexico
| | - Marco Allan Pérez-Solis
- Research Unit in Reproductive Medicine, Health Research Council, Hospital de Gineco-Obstetricia 'Luis Castelazo Ayala', Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico 01090, D.F., Mexico
| | - Guadalupe Maya-Núñez
- Research Unit in Reproductive Medicine, Health Research Council, Hospital de Gineco-Obstetricia 'Luis Castelazo Ayala', Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico 01090, D.F., Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
ROS-induced nanotherapeutic approach for ovarian cancer treatment based on the combinatorial effect of photodynamic therapy and DJ-1 gene suppression. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2015; 11:1961-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
|
24
|
Song W, Tang Z, Zhang D, Li M, Gu J, Chen X. A cooperative polymeric platform for tumor-targeted drug delivery. Chem Sci 2015; 7:728-736. [PMID: 28791115 PMCID: PMC5530016 DOI: 10.1039/c5sc01698c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A tumor-targeted drug delivery system with small-molecule vascular disrupting agents inducing coagulation environment inside tumor and coagulation-targeted nanoparticles accumulating there.
In the pursuit of effective treatments for cancer, an emerging strategy is “active targeting”, where nanoparticles are decorated with targeting ligands able to recognize and bind specific receptors overexpressed by tumor cells or tumor vasculature so that a greater fraction of the administered drugs are selectively trafficked to tumor sites. However, the implementation of this strategy has faced a major obstacle. The interpatient, inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity in receptor expression can pose challenges for the design of clinical trials and result in the paucity of targetable receptors within a tumor, which limits the effectiveness of “active targeting” strategy in cancer treatment. Here we report a cooperative drug delivery platform that overcomes the heterogeneity barrier unique to solid tumors. The cooperative platform comprises a coagulation-inducing agent and coagulation-targeted polymeric nanoparticles. As a typical small-molecule vascular disrupting agent (VDA), DMXAA can create a unique artificial coagulation environment with additional binding sites in a solid tumor by locally activating a coagulation cascade. Coagulation-targeted cisplatin-loaded nanoparticles, which are surface-decorated with a substrate of activated blood coagulation factor XIII, can selectively accumulate in the solid tumor by homing to the VDA-induced artificial coagulation environment through transglutamination. In vivo studies show that the cooperative tumor-selective platform recruits up to 7.5-fold increases in therapeutic cargos to the tumors and decreases tumor burden with low systemic toxicity as compared with non-cooperative controls. These indicate that the use of coagulation-targeted nanoparticles, in conjunction with free small-molecule VDAs, may be a valuable strategy for improving standard chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wantong Song
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials , Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry , Chinese Academy of Sciences , Changchun , 130022 , P. R. China . ;
| | - Zhaohui Tang
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials , Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry , Chinese Academy of Sciences , Changchun , 130022 , P. R. China . ;
| | - Dawei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials , Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry , Chinese Academy of Sciences , Changchun , 130022 , P. R. China . ;
| | - Mingqiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials , Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry , Chinese Academy of Sciences , Changchun , 130022 , P. R. China . ;
| | - Jingkai Gu
- Research Center for Drug Metabolism , College of Life Science , Jilin University , Changchun, 130012 , P. R. China
| | - Xuesi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials , Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry , Chinese Academy of Sciences , Changchun , 130022 , P. R. China . ;
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Popovics P, Schally AV, Szalontay L, Block NL, Rick FG. Targeted cytotoxic analog of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH), AEZS-108 (AN-152), inhibits the growth of DU-145 human castration-resistant prostate cancer in vivo and in vitro through elevating p21 and ROS levels. Oncotarget 2015; 5:4567-78. [PMID: 24994120 PMCID: PMC4147346 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.2146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Management of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is challenging due to lack of efficacious therapy. Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogs appear to act directly on cells based on the LHRH receptors on human prostate adenocarcinoma cells. We explored anticancer activity of a cytotoxic analog of LHRH, AEZS-108, consisting of LHRH agonist linked to doxorubicin. Nude mice bearing DU-145 tumors were used to compare antitumor effects of AEZS-108 with its individual constituents or their unconjugated combination. The tumor growth inhibition of conjugate was greatest among treatment groups (90.5% inhibition vs. 41% by [D-Lys(6)]LHRH+DOX). The presence of LHRH receptors on DU-145 cells was confirmed by immunocytochemistry. In vitro, AEZS-108 significantly inhibited cell proliferation (61.2% inhibition) and elevated apoptosis rates (by 46%). By the detection of the inherent doxorubicin fluorescence, unconjugated doxorubicin was seen in the nucleus; the conjugate was perinuclear and at cell membrane. Autophagy, visualized by GFP-tagged p62 reporter, was increased by AEZS-108 (7.9-fold vs. 5.3-fold by DOX+[D-Lys(6)]LHRH. AEZS-108 more effectively increased reactive oxygen species (ROS, 2-fold vs. 1.4-fold by DOX+[D-Lys(6)]LHRH) and levels of the apoptotic regulator p21 in vivo and in vitro. We demonstrate robust inhibitory effects of the targeted cytotoxic LHRH analog, AEZS-108, on LHRHR positive castration-resistant prostate cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petra Popovics
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center and South Florida Veterans Affairs Foundation for Research and Education, Miami, FL; Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL; Department of Medicine III, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center and South Florida Veterans Affairs Foundation for Research and Education, Miami, FL; Department of Pathology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL; Divisions of Hematology/Oncology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL; Endocrinology University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
| | - Luca Szalontay
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center and South Florida Veterans Affairs Foundation for Research and Education, Miami, FL
| | - Norman L Block
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center and South Florida Veterans Affairs Foundation for Research and Education, Miami, FL; Department of Pathology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL; Divisions of Hematology/Oncology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
| | - Ferenc G Rick
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center and South Florida Veterans Affairs Foundation for Research and Education, Miami, FL; Department of Urology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Amadio G, Masciullo V, Ferrandina MG, Scambia G. Emerging drugs for endometrial cancer. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2014; 19:497-509. [PMID: 25330855 DOI: 10.1517/14728214.2014.971752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION From the dualistic classification that divides endometrial cancer (EC) into two types with distinct underlying molecular profiling, histopathology and clinical behavior, arises a deeper understanding of the carcinogenesis pathways. EC treatment comprises different and multimodal therapeutic approaches, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy or combinations of novel drugs; however, few of these regimens have truly improved progression-free or survival rates in advanced and metastatic settings. AREAS COVERED We reviewed the main molecular pathways involved in EC carcinogenesis through a wide literature search of novel compounds that alone or in combination with traditional drugs have been investigated or are currently under investigation in randomized clinical trials. EXPERT OPINION The molecular therapies mainly discussed in this review are potential therapeutic candidates for more effective and specific treatments. In the genomic era, a deeper knowledge about molecular characteristics of cancer provides the hope for the development of better therapeutic approaches. Targeting both genetic and epigenetic alterations, attacking tumor cells using cell-surface markers overexpressed in tumor tissue, reactivating antitumor immune responses and identifying predictive biomarkers represent the emerging strategies and the major challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Amadio
- Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Largo Agostino Gemelli 8, IT-00168 Rome , Italy +39 0630154979 ; +39 063051160 ;
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Liu SV, Tsao-Wei DD, Xiong S, Groshen S, Dorff TB, Quinn DI, Tai YC, Engel J, Hawes D, Schally AV, Pinski JK. Phase I, dose-escalation study of the targeted cytotoxic LHRH analog AEZS-108 in patients with castration- and taxane-resistant prostate cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2014; 20:6277-83. [PMID: 25278449 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-0489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE AEZS-108, formerly AN-152, is a cytotoxic hybrid molecule consisting of a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist moiety covalently coupled to doxorubicin, allowing it to deliver doxorubicin selectively to cells expressing LHRH receptors. LHRH receptors are expressed on the cell membrane of many tumors, including prostate cancer. This phase I study determined the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of AEZS-108 in men with taxane- and castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) while providing additional information on the safety profile and efficacy of this agent. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN AEZS-108 was administered as an intravenous infusion every 21 days until progression or unacceptable toxicity in cohorts of 3 or 6 patients until the MTD was reached. Blood was collected for capture of circulating tumor cells (CTC) to visualize internalization of AEZS-108, an autofluorescent molecule. RESULTS The MTD of AEZS-108 in this cohort was 210 mg/m(2), which was lower than that seen in a phase I study conducted in women with endometrial or ovarian cancers. The dose-limiting toxicity was persistent neutropenia. Three patients had a PSA response with an additional 10 patients maintaining PSA stable disease. Of the 10 patients evaluable by RECIST criteria, 9 achieved stable disease. AEZS-108 internalization in CTCs was routinely visualized using its autofluorescence. CONCLUSION These findings show that AEZS-108 has an acceptable safety profile and a signal of efficacy, lowering PSA in heavily pretreated patients with prostate cancer, and that internalization of AEZS-108 in prostate cancer CTCs may be a viable pharmacodynamic marker. A phase II study in men with prostate cancer is ongoing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen V Liu
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Denice D Tsao-Wei
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Shigang Xiong
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Southern California, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Susan Groshen
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Tanya B Dorff
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Southern California, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - David I Quinn
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Southern California, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Yu-Chong Tai
- California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California
| | | | - Debra Hawes
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Andrew V Schally
- VA Medical Center and University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Departments of Pathology and Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology and Endocrinology, Miami, Florida
| | - Jacek K Pinski
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Southern California, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Stephenson R, Varamini P, Butcher N, Minchin R, Toth I. Effect of lipidated gonadotropin-releasing hormone peptides on receptor mediated binding and uptake into prostate cancer cells in vitro. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2014; 10:1799-808. [PMID: 25014892 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2014.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Revised: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 06/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors are overexpressed on many cancer cells but not on primary cell lines. This study was designed to investigate the targeting ability and uptake of dendritic lipidated [Gln(1)]-GnRH peptide analogues on receptor-positive prostate cancer PC-3 cells relative to receptor-negative ovarian carcinoma SKOV-3 cells for potential application in drug delivery. Direct antiproliferative effect of these was investigated on three GnRH-receptor positive cancer cells, PC-3, LNCaP and DU145. A significant dose dependent growth inhibitory effect was produced in DU145 cells by 5 dendrimers giving an IC50 value of 22-35 μM. All compounds were non-toxic to the normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells. FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR This study demonstrates the use of specific dendritic lapidated GnRH analogues in growth inhibition of GnRH receptor positive prostate cancer cell lines, suggesting potential future clinical use of this or similar strategies to address GnRH receptor positive cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Stephenson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Pegah Varamini
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Neville Butcher
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Rodney Minchin
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia; School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woollongabba, QLD, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Zhang J, Liu S, Zhu Y, Zhang L, Li W, Wang F, Huang S. Preparation and characterization of luteinising-hormone releasing hormone nanoliposomal microbubbles specifically targeting ovarian cancer cells in vitro. Mol Med Rep 2014; 10:567-71. [PMID: 24805264 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.2211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to prepare luteinizing-hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) nanoliposomal microbubbles specifically targeting ovarian cancer cells. The lyophilization/sonication method was used to prepare non-targeting nanoliposomal microbubbles (N-N-Mbs). Using the biotin-avidin bridge method, conjugated LHRH antibodies to N-N-Mbs generated LHRH nanoliposomal microbubbles (LHRH-N-Mbs) specifically targeting ovarian cancer cells. The morphology and physicochemical properties of the microbubbles was detected using an optical microscope and zeta detector. The binding affinity between the secondary antibody and LHRH-N-Mbs or N-N-Mbs was determined by flow cytometry. The binding of LHRH-N-Mb to human ovarian cancer cells (OVCAR-3) was detected by light microscopy. The rounded and uniformly distributed N-N-Mbs and LHRH-N-Mbs were successfully generated. The particle size ranged from 295-468 nm with a mean of 360 nm for N-N-Mbs or 369-618 nm with a mean of 508 nm for LHRH-N-Mbs. There was a significant difference in size between the two groups (P<0.05), although the surface potential of the two microbubbles remained the same (-14.6 mV). Following being kept at room temperature for 14 days, no significant difference in the physicochemical properties of the LHRH-N-Mbs was detected compared with that of freshly prepared microbubbles. The secondary antibody binding rate of LHRH-N-Mbs and N-N-Mbs was 75.6 and 0.83%, respectively. Furthermore, the formation of a rosette-like structure surrounding OVCAR-3 cells was observed after the cells were incubated with LHRH-N-Mbs, whereas pre-incubation with LHRH antibody blocked this rosette formation. In conclusion, LHRH-N-Mbs specifically targeting ovarian cancer cells were successfully prepared through biotin-avidin mediation and the lyophilization/sonication method. The key feature of LHRH-N-Mbs is their small size, stability and high efficiency in targeting human OVCAR-3 cells in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinyi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Sisun Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yuanfang Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Liping Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Wenjuan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Fen Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Shuying Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Tsui KH, Lee WL, Seow KM, Yang LW, Wang SY, Wang PH, Chang CL, Yen MS, Cheng JT, Chen CP. Effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist on ES-2 ovarian cancer cells. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2014; 53:35-42. [PMID: 24767644 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2013.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor is found in the ovarian tissue, including epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), suggesting that GnRH agonists may have direct action on EOC. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ovarian clear cell cancer (ES-2) cells were treated with low-dose GnRH agonist with/without low-dose paclitaxel (1 μM D-Lys(6) with/without 0.5 μM or 1.0 μM paclitaxel). Growth and behavior of ES-2 cells were evaluated. RESULTS Use of either D-Lys(6) or paclitaxel or a combination of the two did not affect the morphology and growth pattern of ES-2 cells. However, ability of migration and invasion of ES-2 cells was significantly decreased in either use of D-Lys(6) or paclitaxel and more apparent with the combination. Type I GnRH receptor expression of ES-2 was not altered significantly by the combination. CONCLUSION GnRH agonist might modify the ES-2 ovarian cancer cells, and its role might be independent, additional or synergistic, suggesting the potential role of the use of GnRH agonist in the management of clear cell type of the ovarian cancer. However, the results of this study were derived using ES-2 ovarian cancer cells, and might not be valid in other cell types of ovarian cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ling Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Medicine, Cheng-Hsin General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Nursing, Oriental Institute of Technology, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Kok-Min Seow
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shih Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lin-Wei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Yi Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Immunology Center, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Chi-Lun Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Shyen Yen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jiin-Tsuey Cheng
- Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ping Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Medicine, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists sensitize, and resensitize, prostate cancer cells to docetaxel in a p53-dependent manner. PLoS One 2014; 9:e93713. [PMID: 24722580 PMCID: PMC3983111 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0093713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors are expressed in prostate cancer, specifically in the most aggressive stage of the tumor (castration-resistant prostate cancer, CRPC) for which the standard treatment, docetaxel-based chemotherapy, can only improve the median survival time by few months. We previously showed that GnRH agonists exert an antitumor activity in CRPC cells; however, a link between GnRH receptors and the apoptotic machinery remains to be defined. Aim of this study was to evaluate whether, in CRPC cells, GnRH agonists might affect the expression/activity of apoptosis-related proteins and might sensitize, or resensitize, cancer cells to chemotherapeutics. We demonstrated that, in p53-positive DU145 cells, GnRH agonists: a) increase the expression of the proapoptotic protein Bax; this effect is mediated by the phosphorylation (activation) of p53, triggered by the p38 MAPK; b) potentiate the antiproliferative/proapoptotic activity of docetaxel; c) resensitize docetaxel-resistant cells to the antitumor activity of the cytotoxic drug. These data indicate that GnRH agonists sensitize and, more importantly, resensitize DU145 CRPC cells to chemotherapy in a p53-dependent manner. To confirm the crucial role of p53 in the activity of GnRH agonists, experiments were performed in p53-null PC3 cells. We found that GnRH agonists fail to increase Bax expression and do not potentiate the cytotoxic activity of docetaxel. These results may provide a rationale for novel combination treatment strategies, especially for docetaxel-resistant CRPC patients expressing a functional p53 protein.
Collapse
|
32
|
Liu H, Chang S, Sun J, Zhu S, Pu C, Zhu Y, Wang Z, Xu RX. Ultrasound-mediated destruction of LHRHa-targeted and paclitaxel-loaded lipid microbubbles induces proliferation inhibition and apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. Mol Pharm 2014; 11:40-8. [PMID: 24266423 PMCID: PMC3903397 DOI: 10.1021/mp4005244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although paclitaxel (PTX) is used with platinum as the first line chemotherapy regimen for ovarian cancer, its clinical efficacy is often limited by severe adverse effects. Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) technique holds a great promise in minimizing the side effects and maximizing the therapeutic efficacy. However, the technique typically uses nontargeted microbubbles with suboptimal efficiency. We synthesized targeted and PTX-loaded microbubbles (MBs) for UTMD mediated chemotherapy in ovarian cancer cells. PTX-loaded lipid MBs were coated with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone analogue (LHRHa) through a biotin-avidin linkage to target the ovarian cancer A2780/DDP cells that express the LHRH receptor. In the cell culture studies, PTX-loaded and LHRHa-targeted MBs (TPLMBs) in combination with ultrasound (300 kHz, 0.5 W/cm(2), 30 s) demonstrated antiproliferative activities of 41.30 ± 3.93%, 67.76 ± 2.45%, and 75.93 ± 2.81% at 24, 48, and 72 h after the treatment, respectively. The cell apoptosis ratio at 24 h after the treatment is 32.6 ± 0.79%, which is significantly higher than other treatment groups such as PTX only and no-targeted PTX-loaded MBs (NPLMBs) with or without ultrasound mediation. Our experiment verifies the hypothesis that ultrasound mediation of ovarian cancer-targeted and drug-loaded MBs will enhance the PTX therapeutic efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongxia Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Shufang Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Jiangchuan Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Shenyin Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Caixiu Pu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Zhigang Wang
- Institute of Ultrasound Imaging, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Ronald X. Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Khan AR, Magnusson JP, Watson S, Grabowska AM, Wilkinson RW, Alexander C, Pritchard D. Camptothecin prodrug block copolymer micelles with high drug loading and target specificity. Polym Chem 2014. [DOI: 10.1039/c4py00369a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The effects of a novel functional reducible camptothecin (CPT) block copolymer conjugate, targeting luteinizing hormone releasing hormone receptor (LHRHR) were evaluated against differing LHRHR expressing tumour cell lines and immune populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adnan R. Khan
- School of Pharmacy
- University of Nottingham
- University Park
- Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- AstraZeneca
| | | | - Sue Watson
- Pre-Clinical Oncology
- School of Medical and Surgical Sciences
- Queens Medical Centre
- University of Nottingham
- , UK
| | - Anna M. Grabowska
- Pre-Clinical Oncology
- School of Medical and Surgical Sciences
- Queens Medical Centre
- University of Nottingham
- , UK
| | | | - Cameron Alexander
- School of Pharmacy
- University of Nottingham
- University Park
- Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - David Pritchard
- School of Pharmacy
- University of Nottingham
- University Park
- Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Pu C, Chang S, Sun J, Zhu S, Liu H, Zhu Y, Wang Z, Xu RX. Ultrasound-mediated destruction of LHRHa-targeted and paclitaxel-loaded lipid microbubbles for the treatment of intraperitoneal ovarian cancer xenografts. Mol Pharm 2013; 11:49-58. [PMID: 24237050 DOI: 10.1021/mp400523h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) is a promising technique to facilitate the delivery of chemotherapy in cancer treatment. However, the process typically uses nonspecific microbubbles, leading to low tumor-to-normal tissue uptake ratio and adverse side effects. In this study, we synthesized the LHRH receptor-targeted and paclitaxel (PTX)-loaded lipid microbubbles (TPLMBs) for tumor-specific binding and enhanced therapeutic effect at the tumor site. An ovarian cancer xenograft model was established by injecting A2780/DDP cells intraperitoneally in BALB/c nude mice. Microscopic imaging of tumor sections after intraperitoneal injection of TPLMBs showed effective binding of the microbubbles with cancer cells. Ultrasound mediated destruction of the intraperitoneally injected TPLMBs yielded a superior therapeutic outcome in comparison with other treatment options. Immunohistochemical analyses of the dissected tumor tissue further confirmed the increased tumor apoptosis and reduced angiogenesis. Our experiment suggests that ultrasound-mediated intraperitoneal administration of the targeted drug-loaded microbubbles may be a useful method for the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caixiu Pu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Shufang Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Jiangchuan Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Shenyin Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Hongxia Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Zhigang Wang
- Institute of Ultrasound Imaging, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Ronald X Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Limonta P, Manea M. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors as molecular therapeutic targets in prostate cancer: Current options and emerging strategies. Cancer Treat Rev 2013; 39:647-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2012.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
|
36
|
Taratula O, Schumann C, Naleway MA, Pang AJ, Chon KJ, Taratula O. A Multifunctional Theranostic Platform Based on Phthalocyanine-Loaded Dendrimer for Image-Guided Drug Delivery and Photodynamic Therapy. Mol Pharm 2013; 10:3946-58. [DOI: 10.1021/mp400397t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Olena Taratula
- Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Canan Schumann
- Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Michael A. Naleway
- Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Addison J. Pang
- Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Kaitlyn J. Chon
- Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Oleh Taratula
- Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Lin QY, Wang YF, Weng HN, Sheng XJ, Jiang QP, Yang ZY. Influence of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist on the effect of chemotherapy upon ovarian cancer and the prevention of chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage: an experimental study with nu/nu athymic mice. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2013; 13:894-903. [PMID: 23125082 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b1100369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) plays an important role in the regulation of ovarian function and ovarian cancer cell growth. In this study, we determined whether administration of the GnRH agonist (GnRHa), triporelin, prior to cisplatin treatment affects cisplatin and/or prevents cisplatin-induced ovarian damage. METHODS nu/nu mice were injected with ovarian cancer OVCAR-3 cells intraperitoneally. After two weeks, the mice were treated with saline (control), cisplatin, GnRHa, or cisplatin plus GnRHa for four weeks. At the end of the experimental protocol, blood, tumor, ovary, and uterine tissues were resected for hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, immunohistochemical analyses of Ki67, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), and caspase-3, transmission electron microscopy of apoptosis, or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analyses of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH). RESULTS Cisplatin treatment effectively inhibited tumor growth in mice treated with human ovarian cancer cells; however the treatment also induced considerable toxicity. Immunohistochemical analyses showed that Ki67 expression was reduced in cisplatin-treated mice compared to control (P<0.05), but there was no statistically significant differences between cisplatin-treated mice and cisplatin plus GnRHa-treated mice (P>0.05), while expressions of NF-κB and caspase-3 were reduced and induced, respectively, in cisplatin-treated mice and cisplatin plus GnRHa-treated mice. Apoptosis occurred in the GnRHa, cisplatin, and cisplatin plus GnRHa-treated mice, but not in control mice. Ovaries exposed to GnRHa in both GnRHa mice and cisplatin-treated mice (combination group) had significantly more primordial and growth follicles and serum levels of AMH than those in the control mice and cisplatin-treated mice (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Administration of GnRHa to mice significantly decreased the extent of ovarian damage induced by cisplatin, but did not affect the anti-tumor activity of cisplatin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiong-yan Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510150, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Targeted paclitaxel nanoparticles modified with follicle-stimulating hormone β 81-95 peptide show effective antitumor activity against ovarian carcinoma. Int J Pharm 2013; 453:498-505. [PMID: 23811008 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2013.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Revised: 04/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The majority of patients with advanced ovarian cancer will experience a relapse and ultimately die from refractory diseases. Targeted therapy shows promise for these patients. Novel therapeutic strategies should be developed on the basis of the molecular mechanisms involved in ovarian cancer and the steroid hormone environment of ovaries. The ovary is the main target organ of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which bind to its receptor with high affinity. In this study a FSH receptor-targeting ligand, FSH β 81-95 peptide, was used as a targeting moiety to synthesize an FSH receptor-mediated drug delivery system. FSH β 81-95 peptide-conjugated nanoparticles (FSH81-NPs) and paclitaxel-loaded FSH81-NPs (FSH81-NP-PTXs) were synthesized. In vitro studies showed that FSH β 81-95 peptide enabled the specific uptake of cytotoxic drugs and increased the intracellular paclitaxel concentration in FSH receptor-expressing cancer cells, resulting in enhanced cytotoxic effects. In vivo studies showed that FSH81-NP-PTXs possessed higher antitumor efficacy against FSH receptor-expressing tumors without any clinical signs of adverse side effects or body weight loss due to modification with FSH β 81-95 peptide. Therefore, FSH binding peptide-targeted drug delivery system exhibited high potential in the treatment of ovarian cancer, and tumor targeting via reproductive hormone receptors might improve the outcome of diseases.
Collapse
|
39
|
Chang S, Guo J, Sun J, Zhu S, Yan Y, Zhu Y, Li M, Wang Z, Xu RX. Targeted microbubbles for ultrasound mediated gene transfection and apoptosis induction in ovarian cancer cells. ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY 2013; 20:171-179. [PMID: 22841613 PMCID: PMC4332827 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultsonch.2012.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2011] [Revised: 06/22/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) technique can be potentially used for non-viral delivery of gene therapy. Targeting wild-type p53 (wtp53) tumor suppressor gene may provide a clinically promising treatment for patients with ovarian cancer. However, UTMD mediated gene therapy typically uses non-targeted microbubbles with suboptimal gene transfection efficiency. We synthesized a targeted microbubble agent for UTMD mediated wtp53 gene therapy in ovarian cancer cells. Lipid microbubbles were conjugated with a Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone analog (LHRHa) via an avidin-biotin linkage to target the ovarian cancer A2780/DDP cells that express LHRH receptors. The microbubbles were mixed with the pEGFP-N1-wtp53 plasmid. Upon exposure to 1 MHz pulsed ultrasound beam (0.5 W/cm(2)) for 30s, the wtp53 gene was transfected to the ovarian cancer cells. The transfection efficiency was (43.90 ± 6.19)%. The expression of wtp53 mRNA after transfection was (97.08 ± 12.18)%. The cell apoptosis rate after gene therapy was (39.67 ± 5.95)%. In comparison with the other treatment groups, ultrasound mediation of targeted microbubbles yielded higher transfection efficiency and higher cell apoptosis rate (p<0.05). Our experiment verifies the hypothesis that ultrasound mediation of targeted microbubbles will enhance the gene transfection efficiency in ovarian cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shufang Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Juan Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Jiangchuan Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Shenyin Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yu Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Zhigang Wang
- Institute of Ultrasound Imaging, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Ronald X. Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Limonta P, Montagnani Marelli M, Mai S, Motta M, Martini L, Moretti RM. GnRH receptors in cancer: from cell biology to novel targeted therapeutic strategies. Endocr Rev 2012; 33:784-811. [PMID: 22778172 DOI: 10.1210/er.2012-1014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The crucial role of pituitary GnRH receptors (GnRH-R) in the control of reproductive functions is well established. These receptors are the target of GnRH agonists (through receptor desensitization) and antagonists (through receptor blockade) for the treatment of steroid-dependent pathologies, including hormone-dependent tumors. It has also become increasingly clear that GnRH-R are expressed in cancer tissues, either related (i.e. prostate, breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancers) or unrelated (i.e. melanoma, glioblastoma, lung, and pancreatic cancers) to the reproductive system. In hormone-related tumors, GnRH-R appear to be expressed even when the tumor has escaped steroid dependence (such as castration-resistant prostate cancer). These receptors are coupled to a G(αi)-mediated intracellular signaling pathway. Activation of tumor GnRH-R by means of GnRH agonists elicits a strong antiproliferative, antimetastatic, and antiangiogenic (more recently demonstrated) activity. Interestingly, GnRH antagonists have also been shown to elicit a direct antitumor effect; thus, these compounds behave as antagonists of GnRH-R at the pituitary level and as agonists of the same receptors expressed in tumors. According to the ligand-induced selective-signaling theory, GnRH-R might assume various conformations, endowed with different activities for GnRH analogs and with different intracellular signaling pathways, according to the cell context. Based on these consistent experimental observations, tumor GnRH-R are now considered a very interesting candidate for novel molecular, GnRH analog-based, targeted strategies for the treatment of tumors expressing these receptors. These agents include GnRH agonists and antagonists, GnRH analog-based cytotoxic (i.e. doxorubicin) or nutraceutic (i.e. curcumin) hybrids, and GnRH-R-targeted nanoparticles delivering anticancer compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Limonta
- Section of Biomedicine and Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Engel J, Emons G, Pinski J, Schally AV. AEZS-108 : a targeted cytotoxic analog of LHRH for the treatment of cancers positive for LHRH receptors. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2012; 21:891-9. [PMID: 22577891 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2012.685128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Receptors for the luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone [LHRH, also known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)] can be regarded as an ideal target for a personalized medicine approach in cancer therapy. LHRH receptors are expressed in about 80% of human endometrial and ovarian cancers, 86% of prostate cancer, and about 50% of breast cancers including triple-negative breast cancer, as well as bladder, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers, sarcomas, lymphomas, melanomas, and renal cell carcinomas. Apart from the pituitary and reproductive organs, other organs and hematopoietic stem cells express LHRH receptors. Thus, a targeted cytotoxic LHRH analog such as AEZS-108 (formerly known as AN-152), in which doxorubin is linked to the LHRH agonist [D-Lys(6)]LHRH, appears to be a suitable drug for targeted chemotherapy of cancers expressing receptors for LHRH, which would be more efficacious and less toxic than standard systemic chemotherapy. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the development of AEZS-108, its targeting mechanism, preclinical studies, and clinical trials in patients with endometrial, ovarian, prostatic, and bladder cancers. We emphasize its development as a personalized medicine approach. The studies reviewed demonstrate the effects of the cytotoxic LHRH analog, AEZS-108, mediated by LHRH receptors, in in vivo models of LHRH-receptor-positive human endometrial, ovarian, breast, prostatic, colorectal, pancreatic, and bladder cancers xenografted into nude mice. Intravenous administration of AEZS 108 inhibits the growth of LHRH-receptor-positive tumors better than equimolar doses of the cytotoxic agent doxorubicin and is far less toxic. AEZS 108 has no antitumor activity in cancers negative to LHRH receptor. This strongly supports the concept of targeting cytotoxic chemotherapy to tumor cells expressing LHRH receptors. Early clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of AEZS-108. A Phase I trial assessed the maximum tolerated dose and pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of AEZS-108 given once every 3 weeks in patients with gynecological cancers. Two Phase II studies in heavily pretreated ovarian and recurrent endometrial cancers showed good clinical activity after a maximum of six courses of AEZS-108 as a single agent. Ongoing clinical studies with AEZS-108 in men with castration-resistant prostate cancer and patients with chemotherapy refractory bladder cancer had shown early signs of clinical efficacy. Side effects are moderate and easily manageable. In particular, no pituitary or cardiac toxicity is observed. EXPERT OPINION AEZS-108 is a cytotoxic analog designed for receptor-mediated targeted chemotherapy and consists of an LHRH carrier linked to doxorubicin. Preclinical studies demonstrate that the uptake of AEZS-108 is achieved by receptor-mediated endocytosis. Results of Phase I and II clinical trials in patients with gynecological cancers demonstrated anticancer activity without cardiotoxicity even in highly pretreated patients. Phase I/II studies in castration-resistant prostate cancer and chemotherapy refractory bladder cancer are in progress. Targeted chemotherapy with a cytotoxic analog of LHRH, such as AEZS-108, is therefore being considered for Phase III studies in advanced endometrial cancers positive for LHRH receptor. LHRH receptors are also present in human colon cancers, melanomas, lymphomas, and sarcomas, and treatment of these cancers with AEZS-108 should also be undertaken. Before such treatment with AEZS-108 is begun, the status of tumoral LHRH receptors of patients must be determined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joerg Engel
- Medical University of Regensburg, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Landshuter Strasse 65, 93059 Regensburg, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Engel JB, Schally AV, Buchholz S, Seitz S, Emons G, Ortmann O. Targeted chemotherapy of endometrial, ovarian and breast cancers with cytotoxic analogs of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH). Arch Gynecol Obstet 2012; 286:437-42. [PMID: 22555802 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-012-2335-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2012] [Accepted: 04/12/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Receptors luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) are expressed in about 80 % of human endometrial and ovarian cancers and account for more than 50 % of breast cancers including triple negative breast cancers. Apart from the pituitary and reproductive organs, no other organs or hematopoietic stem cells express LHRH (GnRH) receptors. Thus, these receptors can be regarded as an ideal target for a personalized medicine approach in cancer therapy. AEZS-108 (formerly known as AN-152) in which doxorubin is linked to the LHRH agonist [D: -Lys(6)]LHRH, appears to be the most advanced compound in late stage clinical development. Results of phase I and phase II clinical trials in patients with gynecological cancers demonstrated anticancer activity without any cardiotoxicity even in highly pretreated patients. AEZS-108 is therefore being considered for phase II trials in triple negative breast cancers and phase III studies in advanced endometrial cancers positive for LHRH-receptor. EP-100 is a membrane-disrupting peptide targeted to LHRH receptors, which is undergoing early clinical studies in ovarian cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J B Engel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Regensburg, 93057 Regensburg, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Wang C, Zhang Y. Apoptin gene transfer via modified wheat histone H4 facilitates apoptosis of human ovarian cancer cells. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2011; 26:121-6. [PMID: 21355783 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2010.0858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonviral approaches have been used extensively for intracellular gene transfer and gene therapy. A modified wheat histone H4 protein, H4TL (H4-TAT-LHRH), as a protein-based gene delivery vector that was able to form stable complexes with plasmid DNA and increase gene delivery efficiency has been described previously. In this study, H4TL has been used to deliver apoptin gene into a human ovarian carcinoma cell line HO8910. After transfection, increased expression of apoptin at both mRNA and protein levels was detected in HO8910 cells, accompanied by reduced rate of growth of HO8910 cells in vitro and the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in these cells. These data demonstrate that H4TL-mediated transfer of apoptin initiates mitochondrial death pathway in ovarian cancer cells and suggest a novel therapeutic strategy for cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Liu SV, Liu S, Pinski J. Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone receptor targeted agents for prostate cancer. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2011; 20:769-78. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2011.574611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
45
|
Oztürk HB, Vural B, Calışkan E, Solakoğlu S. Effect of GnRH analogues and octreotide treatment on apoptosis and the cell proliferation of endometrium adenocarcinoma cell lines. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2010; 11:131-6. [PMID: 24591918 DOI: 10.5152/jtgga.2010.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2010] [Accepted: 08/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare apoptotic and antiproliferative effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues and their combination with octeotide on endometrioid endometrial cancer cell lines. MATERIAL AND METHOD Women diagnosed with endometrioid adenocarcinoma at the department of Gynecology and Obstetric of Kocaeli University Medical School were included in this research. Endometrium cancer cell lines obtained from three patients were used for this study. After trypsinization in 0.5% in calcium magnesium, free phosphate buffer solution (CMFPBS) cells were seeded on glass slides in 24-well plates containing DMEM-F12 medium and 10% fetal calf serum as culture medium. Cells were incubated for 24 hours at 37ºC in 5% CO2. GnRH agonist leuprolide (Lucrin 1 μmol/L), GnRH antagonist ganirelix (Orgalutran 1 μmol/L), leuprolide with octreotide (Sandostatin 10-6 mol/L), ganirelix with octreotide and no drug were added to the wells. Apoptosis and cells proliferations were evaluated after 12, 24, 48 and 72(th) hours of incubation. The percentage of apoptotic cells was evaluated by TdT mediated biotin-dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) method; cell proliferation was assessed by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation. RESULTS Apoptotic index in grade I EEC cell line among ganirelixoctreotide treated cells and leuprolide-octreotide combination therapy were respectively higher than the untreated control (p<0.001, p=0.001). The number of apoptotic cells in grade II EEC cell line among leuprolide-octreotide and leuprolide were significantly (p<0.001, p<0.001) higher than in controls. In grade III EEC cell line, the number of TUNEL positive cells among leuprolide, ganirelix and ganirelixoctreotide therapiy groups were significantly higher than in untreated control. Time dependent antiproliferative effect was obtained with leuprolide and leuprolide-octreotide in grade I EEC (p<0.001, p<0.001). Grade II EEC cell line is not influenced by hormonotherapies. However, the antiproliferative effect was obtained with ganirelix, leuprolide and leuprolide-octreotide in grade III cell line. CONCLUSION GnRH analogues appears to have a direct effect, enhancing the apoptotic index and decreasing the cell proliferation in endometrial adenocancer cell lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Birol Vural
- Department of Obstetric and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Eray Calışkan
- Department of Obstetric and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Seyhun Solakoğlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Liu SV, Schally AV, Hawes D, Xiong S, Fazli L, Gleave M, Cai J, Groshen S, Brands F, Engel J, Pinski J. Expression of Receptors for Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone (LH-RH) in Prostate Cancers following Therapy with LH-RH Agonists. Clin Cancer Res 2010; 16:4675-80. [DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-10-1113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
47
|
Saleh-Abady MM, Naderi-Manesh H, Alizadeh A, Shamsipour F, Balalaie S, Arabanian A. Anticancer activity of a new gonadotropin releasing hormone analogue. Biopolymers 2010; 94:292-7. [PMID: 19908246 DOI: 10.1002/bip.21335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) has a pivotal role in the biology of reproduction processes. In extrapituitary compartments GnRH and its receptor act as a part of the autocrin regulatory system of cell proliferation, resulting in its anticancer activity. Here the anticancer activity of a new analogue of GnRH has been investigated. Results indicate that proliferation of human breast and ovarian cancer cell lines is dose-dependently inhibited. The inhibitory efficiency of this new analogue is proved to be higher than the original triptorelin. In addition to its antimitogenic activity, evidence was found for the involvement of the apoptotic mechanism in the action of the new analogue. Furthermore the presence of chemical groups in the peptide sequence is thought to increase the protease stability of the new analogue in comparison with triptorelin. Consequently our new analogue can be considered as a good pharmaceutical candidate.
Collapse
|
48
|
Alonso L, Gallego E, González FJ, Sánchez-Muñoz A, Torres E, Pajares BI, Leeflang S, Baha C. Gonadotropin and steroid receptors as prognostic factors in advanced ovarian cancer: a retrospective study. Clin Transl Oncol 2010; 11:748-52. [PMID: 19917538 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-009-0437-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ovarian cancer is a chemosensitive tumour, but two thirds of women have a recurrence during the follow- up, even after an optimal surgical debulking followed by chemotherapy with a platinum and a taxane compound. Cytotoxic drugs are used in a second- or third-line setting but tumour progression is the rule. Also patients with the same histology achieve different outcomes in terms of survival. We decided to study gonadotropin and steroid receptors and to consider if these histological markers could select patients with different prognosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS In our study we have measured by immunohistochemistry oestrogen, progestin and gonadotropin- releasing hormone receptors (Gn-RHRs) in paraffinembedded ovarian cancer tissue in a sample of 62 consecutive patients with advanced ovarian cancer treated with surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. Descriptive methods, a survival analysis (Kaplan-Meier) and a Cox regression analysis were done. RESULTS Oestrogen receptors (ERs) were positive in 65% of patients and the same positivity was obtained for progestin receptors (PRs), with 74% showing some positivity for Gn-RHR receptors. Maximal cytoreduction and ERs, but not gonadotropin receptors, were independently associated with overall survival, with better survival for oestrogennegative tumours. No association was established for progression- free survival. CONCLUSIONS We can conclude that ER status in our series is an independent prognostic factor for ovarian cancer with better survival for oestrogen-negative receptor tumours. PRs could also have a prognostic role in association with ERs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Alonso
- Medical Oncology Service, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Jankowska AG, Andrusiewicz M, Fischer N, Warchol PJB. Expression of hCG and GnRHs and Their Receptors in Endometrial Carcinoma and Hyperplasia. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2010; 20:92-101. [DOI: 10.1111/igc.0b013e3181bbe933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
|
50
|
Serin IS, Tanriverdi F, Ata CD, Akalin H, Ozcelik B, Ozkul Y, Kelestimur F. GnRH-II mRNA expression in tumor tissue and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with malignant and benign ovarian tumors. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2009; 149:92-6. [PMID: 20018426 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2009.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2009] [Revised: 09/15/2009] [Accepted: 11/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of the second form of GnRH (GnRH-II) in tumor tissue and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in malignant and benign ovarian tumors in humans. STUDY DESIGN Sixty-six women were studied: 24 with epithelial ovarian carcinomas, 22 with benign ovarian tumors and 20 in the control group undergoing surgery. Malignant, benign and normal ovarian tissue and PBMCs were obtained for measurement of GnRH-II mRNA levels using quantitative real-time RT-PCR. RESULT(S) The expression of GnRH-II was found to be 1.5 times higher in malignant ovarian tumors compared with benign ovarian tumors and the control group in post-menopausal patients (P<0.01). In the post-menopausal patient group with malignant ovarian tumors, there were significant positive correlations between serum FSH level and ovarian tissue GnRH-II mRNA expression (r=0.68; P=0.03), and serum LH level and ovarian tissue GnRH-II mRNA expression (r=0.71; P=0.02). Controls, benign and malignant groups were similar in terms of GnRH-II expression in PBMCs in the pre- and post-menopausal periods. There was no significant correlation between ovarian tissue GnRH-II mRNA expression vs. PBMC GnRH-II mRNA expression in patient and control groups. CONCLUSION(S) We have shown increased GnRH-II expression in human ovarian cancer tissue in post-menopausal women in vivo. Expression of GnRH-II in PBMCs did not reflect the local GnRH-II expression levels in ovarian tissue. These preliminary data suggest that local GnRH-II may participate in the regulation of ovarian tumor growth in post-menopausal women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Serdar Serin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erciyes University, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|