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Targeting the Gastrin-Releasing Peptide Receptor (GRP-R) in Cancer Therapy: Development of Bombesin-Based Peptide-Drug Conjugates. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043400. [PMID: 36834815 PMCID: PMC9967152 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted tumour therapy has proved to be an efficient alternative to overcome the limitations of conventional chemotherapy. Among several receptors upregulated in cancer cells, the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRP-R) has recently emerged as a promising target for cancer imaging, diagnosing and treatment due to its overexpression on cancerous tissues such as breast, prostate, pancreatic and small-cell lung cancer. Herein, we report on the in vitro and in vivo selective delivery of the cytotoxic drug daunorubicin to prostate and breast cancer, by targeting GRP-R. Exploiting many bombesin analogues as homing peptides, including a newly developed peptide, we produced eleven daunorubicin-containing peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs), acting as drug delivery systems to safely reach the tumour environment. Two of our bioconjugates revealed remarkable anti-proliferative activity, an efficient uptake by all three tested human breast and prostate cancer cell lines, high stability in plasma and a prompt release of the drug-containing metabolite by lysosomal enzymes. Moreover, they revealed a safe profile and a consistent reduction of the tumour volume in vivo. In conclusion, we highlight the importance of GRP-R binding PDCs in targeted cancer therapy, with the possibility of further tailoring and optimisation.
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Wang R, Fu L, Li J, Zhao D, Zhao Y, Yin L. Microarray Analysis for Differentially Expressed Genes Between Stromal and Epithelial Cells in Development and Metastasis of Invasive Breast Cancer. J Comput Biol 2020; 27:1631-1643. [PMID: 32429691 DOI: 10.1089/cmb.2019.0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Both epithelium and stroma are involved in breast cancer invasion and metastasis. This study aimed at identifying the roles of the stroma in breast cancer tumorigenesis and metastasis. Gene expression profiling GSE10797 was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and it included 28-paired stroma and epithelium breast tissue samples from invasive breast cancer patients and 10 paired normal breast tissue samples. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between breast cancer and normal breast tissue samples were identified by using the limma package followed by Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses to seek the potential functions of DEGs. Moreover, a protein-protein interaction network was constructed based on the String database, and modules were selected through the BioNet tool. Further, functional annotations of DEGs were carried out by using tumor suppressor gene and tumor associated gene databases. Ultimately, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis for DEGs in modules was performed. A total of 38 and 156 DEGs were identified from normal invasive stromal cells and epithelial cells, respectively. DEGs in stromal and epithelial cells were significantly enriched in extracellular matrix (ECM)- and cell proliferation-related functions. COL1A2, a hub node in the stromal module, was mainly enriched in ECM-receptor interaction and focal adhesion pathways. JUN, a hub node in the epithelium module, was significantly enriched in cancer and ErbB signaling pathways. COL1A2, COL1A1, COL3A1, JUN, and FN1 might be vital for tumorigenesis and metastasis of invasive breast cancer. These genes might be potential therapeutic targets for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Wang
- National Research Institute for Health and Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Fu
- Core Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Medical Engineering, 401 Hospital of Chinese PLA, Qingdao, China
| | - Jinbin Li
- Core Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Di Zhao
- Dermatological Department, The 309 Hospital Of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Yulan Zhao
- Department of Respiratory, The 88th Hospital of PLA, Tai'an, China
| | - Ling Yin
- Core Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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3
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Aliabadi HM, Bahadur K.C. R, Bousoik E, Hall R, Barbarino A, Thapa B, Coyle M, Mahdipoor P, Uludağ H. A systematic comparison of lipopolymers for siRNA delivery to multiple breast cancer cell lines: In vitro studies. Acta Biomater 2020; 102:351-366. [PMID: 31760224 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2019.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy is a promising approach for treatment of a wide range of cancers, including breast cancers that display variable phenotypic features. To explore the general utility of siRNA therapy to control aberrant expression of genes in breast cancer, we conducted a detailed analysis of siRNA delivery and silencing response in vitro in 6 separate breast cancer cell models (MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-231-KRas-CRM, MCF-7, AU565, MDA-MB-435 and MDA-MB-468 cells). Using lipopolymers for siRNA complexation and delivery, we found a large variation in siRNA delivery efficiency depending on the specific lipopolymer used for siRNA complexation and delivery. Some lipopolymers were effective in all cell types used in this study, indicating the possibility of universal carriers for siRNA therapy. The delivery efficiency for effective lipopolymers was not correlated with dextran uptake in the cells tested, which indicated a receptor-mediated internalization for siRNA complexes with lipopolymers, unlike fluid-phase transfer associated with dextran uptake. Consistent with this, specific inhibitors involved in clathrin- and caveolin-mediated endocytosis significantly (>50%) reduced the internalization of siRNA complexes in all cell types. Using JAK2 and STAT3 silencing in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells, a general correlation between the uptake and silencing efficiency at the mRNA level was evident, but it appeared that the choice of the target rather than the cell type was more critical for consistent silencing. We conclude that siRNA therapy with lipopolymers can be undertaken in multiple breast cancer cell phenotypes with similar efficiency, indicating the general applicability of non-viral RNAi in clinical management of molecularly heterogeneous breast cancers. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The manuscript investigated the efficacy of siRNA carriers across multiple breast cancer cell lines. The lipopolymeric carriers were capable of delivering effective dose of siRNA to a range of breast cancer cells. Despite some differences in uptake efficiency among cell types, the mechanism of delivery was similar, with CME and CvME significantly involved in the internalization of polyplexes, while fluid-phase endocytosis was not significant. Specific target silencing was correlated to delivery efficiency, but we did notice the presence of lipopolymers that achieved high silencing with minimal siRNA delivery. Silencing specific targets in different cell types were more uniformly achieved as compared to targeting different targets in the same cells. Our studies enhance the feasibility of delivering siRNA to different types of breast cancer cells.
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Lau J, Rousseau E, Zhang Z, Uribe CF, Kuo HT, Zeisler J, Zhang C, Kwon D, Lin KS, Bénard F. Positron Emission Tomography Imaging of the Gastrin-Releasing Peptide Receptor with a Novel Bombesin Analogue. ACS OMEGA 2019; 4:1470-1478. [PMID: 30775647 PMCID: PMC6372246 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.8b03293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR), a G protein-coupled receptor, is overexpressed in solid malignancies and particularly in prostate cancer. We synthesized a novel bombesin derivative, [68Ga]Ga-ProBOMB1, evaluated its pharmacokinetics and potential to image GRPR expression with positron emission tomography (PET), and compared it with [68Ga]Ga-NeoBOMB1. ProBOMB1 (DOTA-pABzA-DIG-d-Phe-Gln-Trp-Ala-Val-Gly-His-Leu-ψ(CH2N)-Pro-NH2) was synthesized by solid-phase peptide synthesis. The polyaminocarboxylate chelator 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) was coupled to the N-terminal and separated from the GRPR-targeting sequence by a p-aminomethylaniline-diglycolic acid (pABzA-DIG) linker. The binding affinity to GRPR was determined using a cell-based competition assay, whereas the agonist/antagonist property was determined with a calcium efflux assay. ProBOMB1 was radiolabeled with 68GaCl3. PET imaging and biodistribution studies were performed in male immunocompromised mice bearing PC-3 prostate cancer xenografts. Blocking experiments were performed with coinjection of [d-Phe6,Leu-NHEt13,des-Met14]bombesin(6-14). Dosimetry calculations were performed with OLINDA software. ProBOMB1 and the nonradioactive Ga-ProBOMB were obtained in 1.1 and 67% yield, respectively. The K i value of Ga-ProBOMB1 for GRPR was 3.97 ± 0.76 nM. Ga-ProBOMB1 behaved as an antagonist for GRPR. [68Ga]Ga-ProBOMB1 was obtained in 48.2 ± 10.9% decay-corrected radiochemical yield with 121 ± 46.9 GBq/μmol molar activity and >95% radiochemical purity. Imaging/biodistribution studies showed that the excretion of [68Ga]Ga-ProBOMB1 was primarily through the renal pathway. At 1 h postinjection (p.i.), PC-3 tumor xenografts were clearly delineated in PET images with excellent contrast. The tumor uptake for [68Ga]Ga-ProBOMB1 was 8.17 ± 2.57 percent injected dose per gram (% ID/g) and 9.83 ± 1.48% ID/g for [68Ga]Ga-NeoBOMB1, based on biodistribution studies at 1 h p.i. This corresponded to tumor-to-blood and tumor-to-muscle uptake ratios of 20.6 ± 6.79 and 106 ± 57.7 for [68Ga]Ga-ProBOMB1 and 8.38 ± 0.78 and 39.0 ± 12.6 for [68Ga]Ga-NeoBOMB1, respectively. Blockade with [d-Phe6,Leu-NHEt13,des-Met14]bombesin(6-14) significantly reduced the average uptake of [68Ga]Ga-ProBOMB1 in tumors by 62%. The total absorbed dose was lower for [68Ga]Ga-ProBOMB1 in all organs except for bladder compared with [68Ga]Ga-NeoBOMB1. Our data suggest that [68Ga]Ga-ProBOMB1 is an excellent radiotracer for imaging GRPR expression with PET. [68Ga]Ga-ProBOMB1 achieved a similar uptake as [68Ga]Ga-NeoBOMB1 in tumors, with enhanced contrast and lower whole-body absorbed dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Lau
- Department
of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research
Centre, 675 West 10th
Avenue, V5Z 1L3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Etienne Rousseau
- Department
of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research
Centre, 675 West 10th
Avenue, V5Z 1L3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Département
de Médecine Nucléaire et Radiobiologie, Université de Sherbrooke, 3001 12e Avenue Nord, J1H 5N4 Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Zhengxing Zhang
- Department
of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research
Centre, 675 West 10th
Avenue, V5Z 1L3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Carlos F. Uribe
- Department
of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research
Centre, 675 West 10th
Avenue, V5Z 1L3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hsiou-Ting Kuo
- Department
of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research
Centre, 675 West 10th
Avenue, V5Z 1L3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jutta Zeisler
- Department
of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research
Centre, 675 West 10th
Avenue, V5Z 1L3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Chengcheng Zhang
- Department
of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research
Centre, 675 West 10th
Avenue, V5Z 1L3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Daniel Kwon
- Department
of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research
Centre, 675 West 10th
Avenue, V5Z 1L3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kuo-Shyan Lin
- Department
of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research
Centre, 675 West 10th
Avenue, V5Z 1L3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department
of Radiology, University of British Columbia, 2211 Wesbrook Mall, V6T 1Z7 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - François Bénard
- Department
of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research
Centre, 675 West 10th
Avenue, V5Z 1L3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department
of Radiology, University of British Columbia, 2211 Wesbrook Mall, V6T 1Z7 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Moscona JC, Peters MN, Schally AV, Srivastav S, Delafontaine P, Irimpen A. The effects of a growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonist and a gastrin-releasing peptide antagonist on intimal hyperplasia of the carotid artery after balloon injury in a diabetic rat model☆. Artery Res 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.artres.2017.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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Abstract
Gastrin releasing peptide (GRP) is a regulatory peptide that acts through its receptor (GRPR) to regulate physiological functions in various organs. GRPR is overexpressed in neoplastic cells of most prostate cancers and some renal cell cancers and in the tumoral vessels of urinary tract cancers. Thus, targeting these tumours with specifically designed GRP analogues has potential clinical application. Potent and specific radioactive, cytotoxic or nonradioactive GRP analogues have been designed and tested in various animal tumour models with the aim of receptor targeting for tumour diagnosis or therapy. All three categories of compound were found suitable for tumour targeting in animal models. The cytotoxic and nonradioactive GRP analogues have not yet shown convincing tumour-reducing effects in human trials; however, the first clinical studies of radioactive GRP analogues--both agonists and antagonists--suggest promising opportunities for both diagnostic tumour imaging and radiotherapy of prostate and other GRPR-expressing cancers.
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Cancer treatment using peptides: current therapies and future prospects. JOURNAL OF AMINO ACIDS 2012; 2012:967347. [PMID: 23316341 PMCID: PMC3539351 DOI: 10.1155/2012/967347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 296] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This paper discusses the role of peptides in cancer therapy with special emphasis on peptide drugs which are already approved and those in clinical trials. The potential of peptides in cancer treatment is evident from a variety of different strategies that are available to address the progression of tumor growth and propagation of the disease. Use of peptides that can directly target cancer cells without affecting normal cells (targeted therapy) is evolving as an alternate strategy to conventional chemotherapy. Peptide can be utilized directly as a cytotoxic agent through various mechanisms or can act as a carrier of cytotoxic agents and radioisotopes by specifically targeting cancer cells. Peptide-based hormonal therapy has been extensively studied and utilized for the treatment of breast and prostate cancers. Tremendous amount of clinical data is currently available attesting to the efficiency of peptide-based cancer vaccines. Combination therapy is emerging as an important strategy to achieve synergistic effects in fighting cancer as a single method alone may not be efficient enough to yield positive results. Combining immunotherapy with conventional therapies such as radiation and chemotherapy or combining an anticancer peptide with a nonpeptidic cytotoxic drug is an example of this emerging field.
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8
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Cornelio DB, DE Farias CB, Prusch DS, Heinen TE, Dos Santos RP, Abujamra AL, Schwartsmann G, Roesler R. Influence of GRPR and BDNF/TrkB signaling on the viability of breast and gynecologic cancer cells. Mol Clin Oncol 2012; 1:148-152. [PMID: 24649138 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2012.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 08/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptide and neurotrophin receptors are increasingly important molecular targets in cancer. Scientific findings indicate that compounds blocking gastrin-releasing peptide receptors (GRPR) or tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk) receptors are likely to have antiproliferative activities against cancer cells. The present study aimed to demonstrate that, in contrast to previous findings, GRPR activation reduces, whereas its blockade increases the viability of breast, ovarian and cervical cancer cell lines. However, consistent with previous studies, Trk inhibition was demonstrated to reduce the viability of these cells. MCF-7 (breast), OVCAR-3 (ovarian) and HeLa (cervical) human cancer cell lines were treated with GRP, the GRPR antagonists RC-3095 and RC-3940-II, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the Trk antagonist K252α. Cell viability was measured by the MTT assay. Expression of GRPR and BDNF was confirmed with reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). GRP reduced, whereas RC-3940-II enhanced the viability of the three cell lines. Treatment with K252α inhibited the viability of the cell lines, while BDNF increased the viability of OVCAR-3 cells. The results supported the hypothesis that GRPR and BDNF/TrkB signaling regulates cancer cell viability. Most importantly, these findings are the first to demonstrate that GRPR blockade can stimulate, rather than inhibits the viability of breast and gynecologic cancer cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela B Cornelio
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University Hospital Research Center (CPE-HCPA)
| | | | - Débora S Prusch
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University Hospital Research Center (CPE-HCPA)
| | - Tiago E Heinen
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University Hospital Research Center (CPE-HCPA)
| | | | - Ana L Abujamra
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University Hospital Research Center (CPE-HCPA)
| | - Gilberto Schwartsmann
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University Hospital Research Center (CPE-HCPA); ; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM); ; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Rafael Roesler
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University Hospital Research Center (CPE-HCPA)
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9
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Park HJ, Kim SR, Kim MK, Choi KS, Jang HO, Yun I, Bae SK, Bae MK. Neuromedin B receptor antagonist suppresses tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. Cancer Lett 2011; 312:117-27. [PMID: 21908103 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2011.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2011] [Revised: 08/05/2011] [Accepted: 08/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Neuromedin B (NMB), a member of the mammalian bombesin-like peptide family, and its receptor were aberrantly expressed in vascularized solid tumors. Here, the NMB receptor (NMB-R) antagonist PD168368 specifically inhibited both NMB-induced in vivo and in vitro angiogenesis. In addition, PD168368 showed growth inhibitory effects on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Furthermore, PD168368 effectively suppressed tumor growth in a xenograft model of breast tumor in vivo. Overall, NMB-R antagonist exhibited a significant antitumor activity by simultaneously inhibiting neovascularization and cancer cell growth, thereby suggesting that NMB-R could be a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Joo Park
- School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan 626-870, South Korea
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10
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Roesler R, Brunetto AT, Abujamra AL, de Farias CB, Brunetto AL, Schwartsmann G. Current and emerging molecular targets in glioma. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2011; 10:1735-51. [PMID: 21080801 DOI: 10.1586/era.10.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gliomas are the most common and lethal neurological cancers. Despite research efforts, the prognosis for patients with malignant gliomas remains poor. Advances in the understanding of cellular and molecular alterations in gliomas have led to the emergence of experimental molecularly targeted therapies. This article summarizes recent progress in the development of targeted therapies for glioma, focusing on emerging molecular targets, including neuropeptide and neurotrophin pathways, glutamate receptors, epigenetic mechanisms and glioma stem cell targets. Recent clinical trials of small molecules and antibodies targeted at growth factor pathways and intracellular signaling cascades are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Roesler
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90050-170 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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11
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Sotomayor S, Muñoz-Moreno L, Carmena MJ, Schally AV, Sánchez-Chapado M, Prieto JC, Bajo AM. Regulation of HER expression and transactivation in human prostate cancer cells by a targeted cytotoxic bombesin analog (AN-215) and a bombesin antagonist (RC-3095). Int J Cancer 2010; 127:1813-22. [PMID: 20099275 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.25192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Bombesin (BN) and gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) have been shown to stimulate the growth of human prostate cancer in vivo and in vitro by mechanisms initiated by binding of the peptide to BN/GRP receptor (GRPR). GRPR is overexpressed in a variety of human cancers, including human prostatic carcinoma. This led us to evaluate the effectiveness of blocking GRPR and of chemotherapy targeted to GRPR in androgen-dependent (LNCaP) and androgen-independent (PC-3) prostate cancer cells, which exhibit different features of disease progression. Thus, we used a cytotoxic BN/GRP analog, AN-215, consisting of 2-pyrrolinodoxorubicin (AN-201) linked to BN-like carrier peptide, and a BN/GRP receptor antagonist, RC-3095. Semiquantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting revealed that mRNA and protein levels for GRPR increased in prostate cancer cells as compared with nonneoplastic RWPE-1 cells. Immunofluorocytochemistry and Western blot assays revealed that AN-215 was the most effective analog decreasing both the expression of epidermal growth factor receptor family members and the activation of epidermal growth factor receptor and HER-2, which are associated to a poor prognosis. Furthermore, analogs targeted to BN/GRP receptors, AN-215 and RC-3095, blocked the effect of BN on cell growth in RWPE-1, LNCaP and PC-3 cells. These findings shed light on the mechanisms of action of these analogs and support the view that the use of AN-215 and RC-3095 for blocking BN/GRP receptors for targeted therapy may be of benefit for treatment of advanced prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Sotomayor
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Alcalá University, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
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12
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Liu Z, Yan Y, Liu S, Wang F, Chen X. (18)F, (64)Cu, and (68)Ga labeled RGD-bombesin heterodimeric peptides for PET imaging of breast cancer. Bioconjug Chem 2010; 20:1016-25. [PMID: 20540537 DOI: 10.1021/bc9000245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Radiolabeled RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) and bombesin (BBN) radiotracers that specifically target integrin alpha(v)beta(3) and gastrin releasing peptide receptor (GRPR) are both promising radiopharmaceuticals for tumor imaging. We recently designed and synthesized a RGD-BBN heterodimeric peptide with both RGD and BBN motifs in one single molecule. The (18)F-labeled RGD-BBN heterodimer exhibited dual integrin alpha(v)beta(3) and GRPR targeting in a PC-3 prostate cancer model. In this study we investigated whether radiolabeled RGD-BBN tracers can be used to detect breast cancer by using microPET. Cell binding assay demonstrated that the high GRPR expressing breast cancer cells typically express low to moderate level of integrin alpha(v)beta(3), while high integrin alpha(v)beta(3) expressing breast cancer cells have negligible level of GRPR. We labeled RGD-BBN heterodimer with three positron emitting radionuclides (18)F, (64)Cu, and (68)Ga and investigated the corresponding PET radiotracers in both orthotopic T47D (GRPR(+)/low integrin alpha(v)beta(3)) and MDA-MB-435 (GRPR(-)/integrin alpha(v)beta(3)(+)) breast cancer models. The three radiotracers all possessed in vitro dual integrin alpha(v)beta(3) and GRPR binding affinity. The advantages of the RGD-BBN radiotracers over the corresponding BBN analogues are obvious for imaging MDA-MB-435 (GRPR(-)/integrin alpha(v)beta(3)(+)) tumor. (18)F-FB-PEG(3)-RGD-BBN showed lower tumor uptake than (64)Cu-NOTA-RGD-BBN and (68)Ga-NOTA-RGD-BBN but was able to visualize breast cancer tumors with high contrast. Synthesis of (64)Cu-NOTA-RGD-BBN and (68)Ga-NOTA-RGD-BBN is much faster and easier than (18)F-FB-PEG(3)-RGD-BBN. (64)Cu-NOTA-RGD-BBN showed prolonged tumor uptake but also higher liver retention and kidney uptake than (68)Ga-NOTA-RGD-BBN and (18)F-FB-PEG(3)-RGD-BBN. (68)Ga-NOTA-RGD-BBN possessed high tumor signals but also relatively high background uptake compared with the other two radiotracers. In summary, the prosthetic labeling groups, chelators, and isotopes all have a profound effect on the tumor targeting efficacy and in vivo kinetics of the RGD-BBN tracers for dual integrin and GRPR recognition. Further development of suitably labeled RGD-BBN tracers for PET imaging of cancer is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaofei Liu
- Department of Radiology, Biophysics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA94305-5484, USA
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13
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Chen C, Li G, Liao W, Wu J, Liu L, Ma D, Zhou J, Elbekai RH, Edin ML, Zeldin DC, Wang DW. Selective inhibitors of CYP2J2 related to terfenadine exhibit strong activity against human cancers in vitro and in vivo. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2009; 329:908-18. [PMID: 19289568 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.109.152017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The cytochrome P450 epoxygenase, CYP2J2, converts arachidonic acid to four regioisomeric epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs). We found recently that this enzyme is dramatically up-regulated in a variety of established human carcinoma cell lines and in human cancerous tissue and promotes the neoplastic phenotype. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that specific inhibitors of CYP2J2 related to the drug terfenadine are effective antitumor agents. Four of these inhibitors (compounds 4, 5, 11, and 26) were tested for effectiveness in vitro and in vivo. In Tca-8113 cells, the CYP2J2 inhibitors decreased EET production by approximately 60%, whereas they had no effect on CYP2J2 mRNA or protein expression. Compound 26 inhibited the proliferation of human tumor cells, reduced their ability to adhere, invade, and migrate, and attenuated activation of epithelial growth factor receptor signal and kinases and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/Akt pathways. Inhibition of CYP2J2 also significantly potentiated human tumor cell apoptosis and caused a corresponding increase in caspase-3 activity and change in expression of apoptosis-related proteins Bax and Bcl-2. In murine xenograft models using MDA-MB-435 cells, treatment with compound 26 significantly repressed tumor growth, decreased lung metastasis, and was associated with increased expression of the anticancer genes CD82 and nm23, without causing toxicity. These data suggest that CYP2J2 inhibitors hold significant promise for use in treatment of neoplastic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Department Internal Medicine and the Institute of Hypertension, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
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14
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Lee SK, Choi HI, Yang YS, Jeong GS, Hwang JH, Lee SI, Kang KH, Cho JH, Chae JM, Lee SK, Kim YC, Kim EC. Nitric Oxide Modulates Osteoblastic Differentiation with Heme Oxygenase-1 via the Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase and Nuclear Factor-kappaB Pathways in Human Periodontal Ligament Cells. Biol Pharm Bull 2009; 32:1328-34. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.32.1328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Kyung Lee
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University
| | - Hee-In Choi
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University
| | - Yun-Seok Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Eulgi University
| | | | - Joo-Hee Hwang
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University
| | - Sang-Im Lee
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University
| | - Kyung-Hwa Kang
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University
| | - Jin-Hyung Cho
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University
| | - Jong-Moon Chae
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University
| | - Suk-Keun Lee
- Department of Oral Pathology, College of Dentistry, Kangnung National University
| | | | - Eun-Cheol Kim
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University
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15
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Growth inhibition of non-small-cell lung carcinoma by BN/GRP antagonist is linked with suppression of K-Ras, COX-2, and pAkt. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2007; 104:18671-6. [PMID: 18003891 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0709455104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Bombesin (BN) or gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) can stimulate the growth of neoplasms such as breast cancer and small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). Antagonists of BN/GRP have been shown to inhibit these cancers. We evaluated whether antagonists of BN/GRP can suppress the growth of human non-SCLC (NSCLC) xenografted into nude mice. The effect of the administration of BN/GRP antagonist RC-3940-II on the growth of H460 and A549 NSCLC cell lines orthotopically xenografted into the intrapulmonary interstitium was examined. Protein levels of K-Ras, COX-2, Akt/pAkt, WT p53, Erk1/2, and lung resistance-related protein (LRP) in tumors were analyzed by Western blot analaysis, and receptors for BN/GRP were investigated by radioligand-binding studies. The effect of RC-3940-II on the proliferation of H460 and A549 cells in vitro was assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. High-affinity receptors for BN/GRP were found on tumors. Treatment with RC-3940-II significantly (P < 0.001) inhibited growth of H460 and A549 NSCLC xenografts by 30-50% and led to an improved performance status, compared with controls. In H460 NSCLC, the antitumor effect was associated with a significant (P < 0.001) reduction in protein levels of K-Ras, COX-2, pAkt, and pERK1/2 and with a major augmentation in the expression of WT p53, compared with controls. In A549 NSCLC, pAkt and LRP were significantly down-regulated. Our findings demonstrate the efficacy of BN/GRP antagonist RC-3940-II for the treatment of NSCLC. The suppression of K-Ras, COX-2, pAkt, and LRP, as well as the up-regulation of WT p53 might contribute to the antitumor action of BN/GRP antagonists.
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16
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Cornelio DB, Roesler R, Schwartsmann G. Gastrin-releasing peptide receptor as a molecular target in experimental anticancer therapy. Ann Oncol 2007; 18:1457-66. [PMID: 17351255 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdm058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last two decades, several lines of experimental evidence have suggested that the gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) may act as a growth factor in many types of cancer. For that reason, gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR) antagonists have been developed as anticancer candidate compounds, exhibiting impressive antitumoral activity both in vitro and in vivo in various murine and human tumors. In this article, the GRPR cell surface expression profile in human malignancies is reviewed aiming at the identification of potential tumor types for future clinical trials with GRP analogues and antagonists. In this review, we summarize the current literature regarding the GRPR status in human malignancies. Source data were obtained by searching all published material available through Medline, PubMed and relevant articles from 1971 to 2006. The data available demonstrated a high expression of GRPRs in a large spectrum of human cancers, demonstrating the potential relevance of this intracellular signaling pathway in various human tumor models. The GRPR may be an interesting target for therapeutic intervention in human malignancies, as carriers for cytotoxins, immunotoxins or radioactive compounds, being also a potential tool for tumor detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- D B Cornelio
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Academic Hospital Research Center, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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17
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Jiang JG, Ning YG, Chen C, Ma D, Liu ZJ, Yang S, Zhou J, Xiao X, Zhang XA, Edin ML, Card JW, Wang J, Zeldin DC, Wang DW. Cytochrome p450 epoxygenase promotes human cancer metastasis. Cancer Res 2007; 67:6665-74. [PMID: 17638876 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-06-3643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cytochrome P450 (CYP) epoxygenases convert arachidonic acid to four regioisomeric epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EET), which exert diverse biological activities in a variety of systems. We previously reported that the CYP2J2 epoxygenase is overexpressed in human cancer tissues and cancer cell lines and that EETs enhance tumor growth, increase carcinoma cell proliferation, and prevent apoptosis of cancer cells. Herein, we report that CYP epoxygenase overexpression or EET treatment promotes tumor metastasis independent of effects on tumor growth. In four different human cancer cell lines in vitro, overexpression of CYP2J2 or CYP102 F87V with an associated increase in EET production or addition of synthetic EETs significantly induced Transwell migration (4.5- to 5.5-fold), invasion of cells (3- to 3.5-fold), cell adhesion to fibronectin, and colony formation in soft agar. In contrast, the epoxygenase inhibitor 17-ODYA or infection with the antisense recombinant adeno-associated viral vector (rAAV)-CYP2J2 vector inhibited cell migration, invasion, and adhesion with an associated reduction in EET production. CYP overexpression also enhanced metastatic potential in vivo in that rAAV-CYP2J2-infected MDA-MB-231 human breast carcinoma cells showed 60% more lung metastases in athymic BALB/c mice and enhanced angiogenesis in and around primary tumors compared with control cells. Lung metastasis was abolished by infection with the antisense rAAV-CYP2J2 vector. CYP epoxygenase overexpression or EET treatment up-regulated the prometastatic matrix metalloproteinases and CD44 and down-regulated the antimetastatic genes CD82 and nm-23. Together, these data suggest that CYP epoxygenase inhibition may represent a novel approach to prevent metastasis of human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Gang Jiang
- The Institute of Hypertension and Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China
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18
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Thomas MB. Biological characteristics of cancers in the gallbladder and biliary tract and targeted therapy. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2007; 61:44-51. [PMID: 17164111 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2006.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2005] [Revised: 07/28/2006] [Accepted: 07/28/2006] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenocarcinomas of the gallbladder (GBC) and bile ducts (cholangiocarcinoma) (combined as biliary tract cancers, BTC) are uncommon tumors in the United States, but are endemic in parts of South America and Asia. BTC are aggressive tumors with poor survival. Published response rates to chemotherapy are less than 30% and no survival benefit has been demonstrated from palliative systemic therapy. Improved understanding of the biological characteristics and molecular carcinogenic mechanisms of these malignancies may lead to improved therapeutic regimens for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie B Thomas
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Unit 426, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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19
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Stangelberger A, Schally AV, Varga JL, Zarandi M, Cai RZ, Baker B, Hammann BD, Armatis P, Kanashiro CA. Inhibition of human androgen-independent PC-3 and DU-145 prostate cancers by antagonists of bombesin and growth hormone releasing hormone is linked to PKC, MAPK and c-jun intracellular signalling. Eur J Cancer 2005; 41:2735-44. [PMID: 16291086 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2005.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2005] [Revised: 07/26/2005] [Accepted: 08/02/2005] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Bombesin/gastrin-releasing peptide (BN/GRP) antagonists RC-3940-II and RC-3940-Et, and growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) antagonists MZ-J-7-118 and RC-J-29-18 inhibit the growth of human androgen-independent PC-3 and DU-145 prostate cancers in nude mice. Additive inhibitory effects were observed after treatment with both classes of analogs. In the present study, we investigated the effects of these antagonists on intracellular signalling pathways of protein kinase C (PKC), mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK) and c-fos and c-jun oncogenes that are involved in tumour cell proliferation. In PC-3 tumours, antagonists of BN/GRP and GHRH decreased significantly the expression of PKC isoforms alpha (alpha), eta (eta) and zeta (zeta) and increased that of delta (delta) PKC protein. MAPK was not detectable. In DU-145 tumours, which constitutively express MAPK, all treatments strongly decreased the levels of p42/44 MAPK. Treatment with the antagonists tended to reduce m-RNA for c-jun in both tumour models. In proliferation assays in vitro, inhibitors of PKC and MAPK diminished growth of DU-145 and PC-3 cells. These findings suggest that antagonists of BN/GRP and GHRH inhibit the growth of androgen-independent prostate cancer by affecting intracellular signalling mechanisms of PKC, MAPK and c-jun.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Stangelberger
- Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1601 Perdido St., New Orleans, LA 70112-1262, USA
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20
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Kanashiro CA, Schally AV, Varga JL, Hammann B, Halmos G, Zarandi M. Antagonists of growth hormone releasing hormone and bombesin inhibit the expression of EGF/HER receptor family in H-69 small cell lung carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2005; 226:123-31. [PMID: 16039952 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2005.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2004] [Revised: 12/08/2004] [Accepted: 01/07/2005] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Effects of in vivo treatment with antagonists of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), JV-1-65 and MZ-J-7-110, and bombesin/gastrin-releasing peptide antagonist RC-3940-II, on the EGF receptor (EGFR) family, were investigated in H-69 SCLC. Tumors were analyzed by RT-PCR, immunoblotting and binding assays. Treatment with these analogs reduced the binding capacity of EGFR by 18-64%, and inhibited the mRNA expression for EGFR, HER-2 and -3 by 27-75.4, 17-26.3, and 13.8-46.6%, respectively. The antagonists also decreased the protein levels for EGFR by 21-34%, HER-2 by 36-68% and HER-3 by 43-49%. This is the first demonstration that antiproliferative effects of GHRH antagonists are associated with a downregulation of EGF/HER receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia A Kanashiro
- Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1601 Perdido Street, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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21
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Engel JB, Schally AV, Halmos G, Baker B, Nagy A, Keller G. Targeted therapy with a cytotoxic somatostatin analog, AN-238, inhibits growth of human experimental endometrial carcinomas expressing multidrug resistance protein MDR-1. Cancer 2005; 104:1312-21. [PMID: 16047355 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.21327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemoresistance mediated by membrane transporters such as multidrug resistance (MDR-1) glycoprotein remains a challenge in the chemotherapy treatment of advanced or recurrent endometrial carcinoma. Targeted chemotherapy might overcome this resistance. The cytotoxic somatostatin (SST) analog, AN-238, consists of a superactive derivative of doxorubicin (DOX), 2-pyrrolino-DOX (AN-201), linked to the SST analog carrier, RC-121. This conjugate binds strongly to SST receptor subtypes (sst) 2a (sst2(a)) and 5 (sst(5)) and can be targeted to tumors that express these receptors. METHODS The presence of sst2(a) and sst(5) was determined in 3 human endometrial carcinoma cell lines (HEC-1A, RL-95-2, and AN3CA). Nude mice bearing xenografts of these cancers were treated with AN-238 and its radical, AN-201. The antitumor effects and toxicity were compared. The authors studied the effects of AN-238 and AN-201 on the expression levels of MDR-1, multidrug resistance related protein (MRP-1), and breast carcinoma resistance protein (BCRP) by real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The authors demonstrated the presence of mRNA and receptor protein for sst(2a) and sst(5) on HEC-1A, RL-95-2, and AN3CA tumors. AN-238 significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited the growth of these tumors, whereas AN-201 had no effect. Blockade of SST receptors nullified the effects of AN-238. In all 3 endometrial carcinoma lines, AN-238 caused a weaker induction of MDR-1 than AN-201. No major induction of MRP-1 and BCRP occurred after treatment with AN-238 or AN-201. CONCLUSIONS Targeted chemotherapy with the cytotoxic SST analog, AN-238, inhibited powerfully the growth of endometrial carcinoma, which express SST receptors, regardless of their expression level of MDR-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorg B Engel
- Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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22
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Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) hormones are chemical messengers that have been recognized for over a century as regulatory factors for normal physiologic functions in the GI tract and pancreas, including absorption, secretion, motility, and digestion. These hormones traditionally act in a true endocrine fashion with release from a distant site to regulate physiologic functions of specific target organs. In general, GI hormones bind to their G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to produce their endocrine effects. In addition to effects on physiologic functions of the GI tract and pancreas, selected GI hormones can act in an endocrine, paracrine, and/or autocrine fashion to stimulate the proliferation of normal and neoplastic GI tissues as well as non-GI tissues. This review will focus on effects of GI hormones on neoplastic tissues concentrating on the hormones that have been best characterized for these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Mark Evers
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555, USA
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23
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Stangelberger A, Schally AV, Varga JL, Hammann BD, Groot K, Halmos G, Cai RZ, Zarandi M. Antagonists of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) and of bombesin/gastrin releasing peptide (BN/GRP) suppress the expression of VEGF, bFGF, and receptors of the EGF/HER family in PC-3 and DU-145 human androgen-independent prostate cancers. Prostate 2005; 64:303-15. [PMID: 15754342 DOI: 10.1002/pros.20262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antagonists of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) as well as antagonists of bombesin/gastrin releasing peptide (BN/GRP) inhibit the growth of various malignancies (cancers) including prostate cancer. METHODS We investigated the effects of GHRH antagonists MZ-J-7-118 and RC-J-29-18, BN/GRP antagonists RC-3940-II and RC-3940-Et and the combination of MZ-J-7-118 and RC-3940-II on the growth of PC-3 and DU-145 human androgen independent prostate cancers xenografted s.c. into nude mice. To elucidate the mechanisms of action of these analogs, growth factors like IGF-II (insulin-like growth factor-II), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and epidermal growth factor receptor/human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-R/HER) family were measured in tumors as well as IGF-I in serum. RESULTS Antagonists of GHRH and BN/GRP alone or in combination significantly inhibited growth of PC-3 and DU-145 tumors, the greatest inhibition of tumor volume being achieved by combination of MZ-J-7-118 (5 microg/day) and RC-3940-II (10 microg/day). BN/GRP and GHRH antagonists and their combination also decreased the expression of VEGF significantly in PC-3 and non-significantly in DU-145, as measured by radioimmunoassay for VEGF protein and RT-PCR for mRNA levels of VEGF. GHRH and BN/GRP antagonists reduced bFGF concentrations and the maximal binding capacity of EGF receptors, and their mRNA levels in PC-3 and DU-145 tumors. mRNA levels for HER-2 and -3 were also diminished in PC-3 tumors by GHRH and BN/GRP antagonists. No changes in HER-4 were found after treatment. Serum IGF-I and tumoral IGF-II levels were not affected by the analogs. CONCLUSIONS BN/GRP and GHRH antagonists inhibit growth of PC-3 and DU-145 prostate cancers by suppressing the expression of tumoral growth factors such as VEGF and bFGF as well as the receptors for EGF and related HER-2 and -3. Additive effects on tumor inhibition (TI) in vivo, but not on VEGF, bFGF, or members of the EGF/HER receptor family, can be achieved by the joint administration of both classes of analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Stangelberger
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-1262,USA
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24
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Zhou J, Chen J, Mokotoff M, Ball ED. Targeting gastrin-releasing peptide receptors for cancer treatment. Anticancer Drugs 2005; 15:921-7. [PMID: 15514561 DOI: 10.1097/00001813-200411000-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Growth factor receptors play critical roles in cancer cell proliferation and progression. A number of such receptors have been targeted for cancer treatment by either a monoclonal antibody or a specifically designed small molecule to inhibit the receptor function. Bombesin/gastrin-releasing peptide receptors (BN/GRP-Rs) are expressed in a variety of cancer cells and have limited distribution in normal human tissue. Inhibition of BN/GRP-Rs has been shown to block small cell lung cancer growth in vitro. Early phase clinical trials targeting human GRP-R showed anti-cancer activity. This review will focus on the study of the distribution of BN/GRP-Rs in normal and malignant tissues, and various approaches to targeting BN-GRP-Rs for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiehua Zhou
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Medicine and Moores UCSD Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0960, USA
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25
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Heuser M, Schlott T, Schally AV, Kahler E, Schliephake R, Laabs SO, Hemmerlein B. Expression of gastrin releasing Peptide receptor in renal cell carcinomas: a potential function for the regulation of neoangiogenesis and microvascular perfusion. J Urol 2005; 173:2154-9. [PMID: 15879878 DOI: 10.1097/01.ju.0000158135.26893.bc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gastrin releasing peptide (GRP) is a growth factor for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and it has vasoactive properties. Blockade of GRP receptor inhibits the growth of GRP receptor positive and negative tumors in nude mice, suggesting GRP effects other than those related to tumor epithelium. Therefore, in this study we analyzed the effects of GRP receptor blockade on neoangiogenesis in RCC. MATERIALS AND METHODS GRP receptor expression was determined in human RCC and corresponding normal tissue by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Multicellular spheroids of the A498 RCC line were implanted into dorsal skin fold chambers of athymic nude mice. Neoangiogenesis was measured by intravital microscopy after blockade of GRP receptors by the GRP antagonist RC-3095. The influence of GRP on vascular endothelial growth factor secretion in A498 cells was studied in vitro. RESULTS GRP receptor expression was immunolocalized in tumor cells and microvessels. Implanted tumor cell spheroids and spheroid microvessels of the chamber also expressed GRP receptors. Spheroid neoangiogenesis was significantly inhibited by RC-3095 when given immediately after spheroid implantation. Vascular endothelial growth factor secretion of A498 cells was not affected by GRP. CONCLUSIONS RCC angiogenesis is sensitive to GRP receptor blockade. Therefore, GRP receptors may not only stimulate tumor cell proliferation, but also affect tumor microcirculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Heuser
- Department of Urology, Georg-August-University, Goettingen, Germany, and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.
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26
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Pereira AS, DiLeone L, Souza FH, Lilla S, Richter M, Schwartsmann G, De Nucci G. Quantification of the bombesin/gastrin releasing peptide antagonist RC-3095 by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2005; 816:321-6. [PMID: 15664365 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2004.11.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2004] [Accepted: 11/18/2004] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Bombesin (BN) and its mammalian equivalent, gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP), stimulate cell proliferation and are involved in the pathogenesis of several types of human cancer. BN/GRP and their receptors were shown to be critical for the growth of various human malignancies, such as small-cell lung, prostate, ovary, stomach and breast cancers in the human tumor xenograft model. In the present study, a fast, sensitive, robust method was developed for the determination and quantification of a BN/GRP receptor antagonist RC-3095 (D-Tpi-Gln-Trp-Ala-Val-Gly-His-Leupsi(CH2NH)Leu-NH2), in human plasma by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. RC-3095 was extracted from 0.2 ml human plasma by protein precipitation using cold acetonitrile (0.4 ml). The method has a chromatographic run of 10 min using a C(8) analytical column (150 mm x 4.6 mm i.d.) and the linear calibration curve over the range was linear from 20 to 10000 ng ml(-1) (r(2)>0.994). The between-run precision, based on the relative standard deviation replicate quality controls, was 5.7% (60 ng ml(-1)), 7.1% (600 ng ml(-1)) and 6.8% (8000 ng ml(-1)). The between-run accuracy was +/-0.0, 2.1 and 3.1% for the above-mentioned concentrations, respectively. The developed procedure allows the quantitative determination of peptide RC-3095 for pharmacokinetics studies in human plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto S Pereira
- Galeno Research Unit, Latino Coelho St., 1301, Parque Taquaral, 13087-010 Campinas, SP, Brazil
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MacKinnon AC, Tufail-Hanif U, Lucas CD, Jodrell D, Haslett C, Sethi T. Expression of V1A and GRP receptors leads to cellular transformation and increased sensitivity to substance-P analogue-induced growth inhibition. Br J Cancer 2005; 92:522-31. [PMID: 15685238 PMCID: PMC2362091 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6602366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a particularly aggressive cancer, which metastasises early. Despite initial sensitivity to radio- and chemo-therapy, it invariably relapses, so that the 2-year survival remains less than 5%. Neuropeptides particularly arginine vasopressin (AVP) and gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) act as autocrine and paracrine growth factors and the expression of these and their receptors are a hallmark of the disease. Substance-P analogues including [D-Arg1,D-Phe5,D-Trp7,9,Leu11]-substance-P (SP-D) and [Arg6,D-Trp7,9,NmePhe8]-substance-P (6-11) (SP-G) inhibit the growth of SCLC cells by modulating neuropeptide signalling. We show that GRP and V1A receptors expression leads to the development of a transformed phenotype. Addition of neuropeptide provides some protection from etoposide-induced cytotoxicity. Receptor expression also leads to an increased sensitivity to substance-P analogue-induced growth inhibition. We show that SP-D and SP-G act as biased agonists at GRP and V1A receptors causing blockade of Gq-mediated Ca2+ release while directing signalling to activate ERK via a pertussis toxin-sensitive pathway. This is the first description of biased agonism at V1A receptors. This unique pharmacology governs the antiproliferative properties of these agents and highlights their potential therapeutic potential for the treatment of SCLC and particularly in tumours, which have developed resistance to chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C MacKinnon
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - U Tufail-Hanif
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - C D Lucas
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - D Jodrell
- Cancer Research UK, Medical Oncology Unit, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - C Haslett
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - T Sethi
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK. E-mail:
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Abstract
Accurate and rapid detection of tumors is of great importance for interrogating the molecular basis of cancer pathogenesis, preventing the onset of complications, and implementing a tailored therapeutic regimen. In this era of molecular medicine, molecular probes that respond to, or target molecular processes are indispensable. Although numerous imaging modalities have been developed for visualizing pathologic conditions, the high sensitivity and relatively innocuous low energy radiation of optical imaging method makes it attractive for molecular imaging. While many human diseases have been studied successfully by using intrinsic optical properties of normal and pathologic tissues, molecular imaging of the expression of aberrant genes, proteins, and other pathophysiologic processes would be enhanced by the use of highly specific exogenous molecular beacons. This review focuses on the development of receptor-specific molecular probes for optical imaging of tumors. Particularly, bioconjugates of probes that absorb and fluoresce in the near infrared wavelengths between 750 and 900 nm will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Achilefu
- Department of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, 4525 Scot Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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29
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Sano H, Feighner SD, Hreniuk DL, Iwaasa H, Sailer AW, Pan J, Reitman ML, Kanatani A, Howard AD, Tan CP. Characterization of the bombesin-like peptide receptor family in primates. Genomics 2004; 84:139-46. [PMID: 15203211 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2004.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2003] [Accepted: 01/23/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, bombesin-like peptides mediate a broad range of physiological functions through binding to three highly conserved G-protein-coupled receptors: the neuromedin B-preferring, the gastrin-releasing peptide-preferring, and the bombesin-receptor subtype 3. Selective modulation of these receptors presents opportunities for the development of novel therapeutics. To ascertain if rhesus monkey could serve as a surrogate animal model for the development of modulators of bombesin-like receptor function, we undertook a search for additional receptor family members and studied the expression profiles of the three known bombesin-related receptors. We found no evidence for additional receptor family members in mammals, suggesting that the expression of the previously described bombesin-receptor subtype 4 is limited to amphibians. We studied the distribution of the three receptors in a broad array of human and rhesus monkey tissues. Based on the similarity between the human and the rhesus expression profiles, we conclude that the rhesus monkey may be a suitable animal model to evaluate the clinical efficacy and potential side effects of bombesin-like peptide ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Sano
- Department of Metabolic Disorders, Merck Research Laboratories, P.O. Box 2000, Rahway, NJ 07065, USA
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Nagahata T, Onda M, Emi M, Nagai H, Tsumagari K, Fujimoto T, Hirano A, Sato T, Nishikawa K, Akiyama F, Sakamoto G, Kasumi F, Miki Y, Tanaka T, Tsunoda T. Expression profiling to predict postoperative prognosis for estrogen receptor-negative breast cancers by analysis of 25,344 genes on a cDNA microarray. Cancer Sci 2004; 95:218-25. [PMID: 15016320 PMCID: PMC11160046 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.2004.tb02206.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2003] [Revised: 01/14/2004] [Accepted: 01/19/2004] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor (ER) status is an essential determinant of clinical and biological behavior of human breast cancers. While ER-positive breast cancers respond well to adjuvant hormone therapy, ER-negative tumors are generally resistant. To date, no attempts have succeeded in finding molecular markers for classifying ER-negative breast cancers with respect to postoperative prognosis. To identify a set of prognostic markers for this type of cancer, we used a cDNA microarray consisting of 25,344 human genes to investigate expression profiles of ten primary breast cancers from patients who had died of breast cancer within 5 years after surgery (5y-D) and 10 from patients who had survived disease-free for more than 5 years (5y-S). Sets of genes characterizing each group were identified by Mann-Whitney and random-permutation tests. We documented 71 genes with higher expression in the 5y-D group than in the 5y-S group, and 15 with higher expression in the 5y-S group than in the 5y-D group. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR experiments were carried out to confirm the results of the microarray analysis. We established a scoring system for predicting postoperative prognosis of ER-negative breast cancers on the basis of aberrant gene expression. The list of genes reported here provides valuable information with regard to progression of breast cancer and is a source of possible target molecules for development of novel drugs to treat patients with ER-negative breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takemitsu Nagahata
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Gerontology, Nippon Medical School, 1-396 Kosugi-cho, Nakahara-ku, Kawasaki 211-8533, Japan
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Bajo AM, Schally AV, Groot K, Szepeshazi K. Bombesin antagonists inhibit proangiogenic factors in human experimental breast cancers. Br J Cancer 2004; 90:245-52. [PMID: 14710236 PMCID: PMC2395331 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6601404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The overexpression of angiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) plays a role in the migration and proliferation of endothelial cells in many cancers. Consequently, we investigated the effects of bombesin/gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) antagonists on the expression of these angiogenic factors, the activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)-2 and -9, as well as the vascular density in MDA-MB-435 human oestrogen-independent breast cancers. Nude mice bearing orthotopic xenografts of MDA-MB-435 breast cancers were treated with bombesin/GRP antagonists for 6 weeks. Daily administration of 20 μg of RC-3095 or 10 μg of RC-3940-II significantly decreased the weight of MDA-MB-435 cancers by 44 and 53%, respectively. The inhibition of tumour growth was associated with a substantial reduction in the expression of mRNA and protein levels of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), IGF-II and VEGF-A in the tumours. Both bombesin/GRP antagonists significantly decreased the vessel density of the tumours by about 37%, as shown by immunohistochemical detection of vessels on tumour slides. Gelatinolytic activities, detected by zymography, revealed a 33–46% reduction in MMP-9 activity after the treatment with either antagonist. In vitro studies revealed that MDA-MB-435 cells secrete bFGF, IGF-II and VEGF-A, and the secretion of these factors is inhibited by RC-3095 and RC-3940-II. This study demonstrates the antiangiogenic effect of bombesin/GRP antagonists RC-3095 and RC-3940-II, and underscores their possible therapeutic application for treatment of breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Bajo
- Endocrine Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New Orleans, LA 70112-1262, USA
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Thomas RP, Hellmich MR, Townsend CM, Evers BM. Role of gastrointestinal hormones in the proliferation of normal and neoplastic tissues. Endocr Rev 2003; 24:571-99. [PMID: 14570743 DOI: 10.1210/er.2002-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) hormones are chemical messengers that regulate the physiological functions of the intestine and pancreas, including secretion, motility, absorption, and digestion. In addition to these well-defined physiological effects, GI hormones can stimulate proliferation of the nonneoplastic intestinal mucosa and pancreas. Furthermore, in an analogous fashion to breast and prostate cancer, certain GI cancers possess receptors for GI hormones; growth can be altered by administration of these hormones or by blocking their respective receptors. The GI hormones that affect proliferation, either stimulatory or inhibitory, include gastrin, cholecystokinin, gastrin-releasing peptide, neurotensin, peptide YY, glucagon-like peptide-2, and somatostatin. The effects of these peptides on normal and neoplastic GI tissues will be described. Also, future perspectives and potential therapeutic implications will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P Thomas
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555, USA
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Letsch M, Schally AV, Busto R, Bajo AM, Varga JL. Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) antagonists inhibit the proliferation of androgen-dependent and -independent prostate cancers. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2003; 100:1250-5. [PMID: 12538852 PMCID: PMC298759 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0337496100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The antiproliferative effects of an antagonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) JV-1-38 were evaluated in nude mice bearing s.c. xenografts of LNCaP and MDA-PCa-2b human androgen-sensitive and DU-145 androgen-independent prostate cancers. In the androgen-sensitive models, JV-1-38 greatly potentiated the antitumor effect of androgen deprivation induced by surgical castration, but was ineffective when given alone. Thus, in castrated animals bearing MDA-PCa-2b cancers, the administration of JV-1-38 for 35 days virtually arrested tumor growth (94% inhibition vs. intact control, P < 0.01; and 75% vs. castrated control, P < 0.05). The growth of LNCaP tumors was also powerfully suppressed by JV-1-38 combined with castration (83% inhibition vs. intact control, P < 0.01; and 68% vs. castrated control, P < 0.05). However, in androgen-independent DU-145 cancers, JV-1-38 alone could inhibit tumor growth by 57% (P < 0.05) after 45 days. In animals bearing MDA-PCa-2b and LNCaP tumors, the reduction in serum prostate-specific antigen levels, after therapy with JV-1-38, paralleled the decrease in tumor volume. Inhibition of MDA-PCa-2b and DU-145 cancers was associated with the reduction in the expression of mRNA and protein levels of vascular endothelial growth factor. The mRNA expression for GHRH receptor splice variants was found in all these models of prostate cancer. Our results demonstrate that GHRH antagonists inhibit androgen-independent prostate cancers and, after combination with androgen deprivation, also androgen-sensitive tumors. Thus, the therapy with GHRH antagonist could be considered for the management of both androgen-dependent or -independent prostate cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Letsch
- Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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Biologic relevance of mammalian bombesin-like peptides and their receptors in human malignancies. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1097/00060793-200302000-00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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