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Baxter C, Crary I, Coler B, Marcell L, Huebner EM, Rutz S, Adams Waldorf KM. Addressing a broken drug pipeline for preterm birth: why early preterm birth is an orphan disease. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:647-655. [PMID: 37516401 PMCID: PMC10818026 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Preterm birth remains one of the most urgent unresolved medical problems in obstetrics, yet only 2 therapeutics for preventing preterm birth have ever been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, and neither remains on the market. The recent withdrawal of 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17-OHPC, Makena) marks a new but familiar era for obstetrics with no Food and Drug Administration-approved pharmaceuticals to address preterm birth. The lack of pharmaceuticals reflects a broad and ineffective pipeline hindered by extensive regulatory hurdles, soaring costs of performing drug research, and concerns regarding adverse effects among a particularly vulnerable population. The pharmaceutical industry has historically limited investments in research for diseases with similarly small markets, such as cystic fibrosis, given their rarity and diminished projected financial return. The Orphan Drug Act, however, incentivizes drug development for "orphan diseases", defined as affecting <200,000 people in the United States annually. Although the total number of preterm births in the United States exceeds this threshold annually, the early subset of preterm birth (<34 weeks' gestation) would qualify, which is predominantly caused by inflammation and infection. The scientific rationale for classifying preterm birth into early and late subsets is strong given that their etiologies differ, and therapeutics that may be efficacious for one subset may not work for the other. For example, antiinflammatory therapeutics would be expected to be highly effective for early but not late preterm birth. A robust therapeutic pipeline of antiinflammatory drugs already exists, which could be used to target spontaneous early preterm birth, in combination with antibiotics shown to sterilize the amniotic cavity. New applications for therapeutics targeting spontaneous early preterm birth could categorize as orphan disease drugs, which could revitalize the preterm birth therapeutic pipeline. Herein, we describe why drugs targeting early preterm birth should qualify for orphan status, which may increase pharmaceutical interest for this vitally important obstetrical condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly Baxter
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Isabelle Crary
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Brahm Coler
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA
| | - Lauren Marcell
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Sara Rutz
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Kristina M Adams Waldorf
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA.
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2
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Enazy SA, Kirschen GW, Vincent K, Yang J, Saada J, Shah M, Oberhauser AF, Bujalowski PJ, Motamedi M, Salama SA, Kilic G, Rytting E, Borahay MA. PEGylated Polymeric Nanoparticles Loaded with 2-Methoxyestradiol for the Treatment of Uterine Leiomyoma in a Patient-Derived Xenograft Mouse Model. J Pharm Sci 2023; 112:2552-2560. [PMID: 37482124 PMCID: PMC10529399 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Leiomyomas, the most common benign neoplasms of the female reproductive tract, currently have limited medical treatment options. Drugs targeting estrogen/progesterone signaling are used, but side effects and limited efficacy in many cases are major limitation of their clinical use. Previous studies from our laboratory and others demonstrated that 2-methoxyestradiol (2-ME) is promising treatment for uterine fibroids. However, its poor bioavailability and rapid degradation hinder its development for clinical use. The objective of this study is to evaluate the in vivo effect of biodegradable and biocompatible 2-ME-loaded polymeric nanoparticles in a patient-derived leiomyoma xenograft mouse model. PEGylated poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PEG-PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with 2-ME were prepared by nanoprecipitation. Female 6-week age immunodeficient NOG (NOD/Shi-scid/IL-2Rγnull) mice were used. Estrogen-progesterone pellets were implanted subcutaneously. Five days later, patient-derived human fibroid tumors were xenografted bilaterally subcutaneously. Engrafted mice were treated with 2-ME-loaded or blank (control) PEGylated nanoparticles. Nanoparticles were injected intraperitoneally and after 28 days of treatment, tumor volume was measured by caliper following hair removal, and tumors were removed and weighed. Up to 99.1% encapsulation efficiency was achieved, and the in vitro release profile showed minimal burst release, thus confirming the high encapsulation efficiency. In vivo administration of the 2-ME-loaded nanoparticles led to 51% growth inhibition of xenografted tumors compared to controls (P < 0.01). Thus, 2-ME-loaded nanoparticles may represent a novel approach for the treatment of uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaalarab Al Enazy
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gregory W Kirschen
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kathleen Vincent
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Jinping Yang
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Jamal Saada
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Mansi Shah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Andres F Oberhauser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Paul J Bujalowski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Massoud Motamedi
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Salama A Salama
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Gokhan Kilic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Erik Rytting
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA; Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Mostafa A Borahay
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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3
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Taylor J, Sharp A, Rannard SP, Arrowsmith S, McDonald TO. Nanomedicine strategies to improve therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of preterm birth and future directions. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:1870-1889. [PMID: 36998665 PMCID: PMC10044983 DOI: 10.1039/d2na00834c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates 15 million babies worldwide are born preterm each year, with 1 million infant mortalities and long-term morbidity in survivors. Whilst the past 40 years have provided some understanding in the causes of preterm birth, along with development of a range of therapeutic options, notably prophylactic use of progesterone or uterine contraction suppressants (tocolytics), the number of preterm births continues to rise. Existing therapeutics used to control uterine contractions are restricted in their clinical use due to pharmacological drawbacks such as poor potency, transfer of drugs to the fetus across the placenta and maternal side effects from activity in other maternal systems. This review focuses on addressing the urgent need for the development of alternative therapeutic systems with improved efficacy and safety for the treatment of preterm birth. We discuss the application of nanomedicine as a viable opportunity to engineer pre-existing tocolytic agents and progestogens into nanoformulations, to improve their efficacy and address current drawbacks to their use. We review different nanomedicines including liposomes, lipid-based carriers, polymers and nanosuspensions highlighting where possible, where these technologies have already been exploited e.g. liposomes, and their significance in improving the properties of pre-existing therapeutic agents within the field of obstetrics. We also highlight where active pharmaceutical agents (APIs) with tocolytic properties have been used for other clinical indications and how these could inform the design of future therapeutics or be repurposed to diversify their application such as for use in preterm birth. Finally we outline and discuss the future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Taylor
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool Crown Street Liverpool L69 7ZD UK
| | - Andrew Sharp
- Harris-Wellbeing Preterm Birth Research Centre, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Liverpool Women's Hospital, University of Liverpool Crown Street Liverpool L8 7SS UK
| | - Steve P Rannard
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool Crown Street Liverpool L69 7ZD UK
- Centre of Excellence in Long-acting Therapeutics (CELT), University of Liverpool Liverpool L7 3NY UK
| | - Sarah Arrowsmith
- Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Chester Street Manchester M1 5GD UK
| | - Tom O McDonald
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool Crown Street Liverpool L69 7ZD UK
- Department of Materials, Henry Royce Institute, The University of Manchester Manchester M13 9PL UK
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4
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Bertozzi S, Corradetti B, Seriau L, Diaz Ñañez JA, Cedolini C, Fruscalzo A, Cesselli D, Cagnacci A, Londero AP. Nanotechnologies in Obstetrics and Cancer during Pregnancy: A Narrative Review. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12081324. [PMID: 36013273 PMCID: PMC9410527 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12081324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanotechnology, the art of engineering structures on a molecular level, offers the opportunity to implement new strategies for the diagnosis and management of pregnancy-related disorders. This review aims to summarize the current state of nanotechnology in obstetrics and cancer in pregnancy, focusing on existing and potential applications, and provides insights on safety and future directions. A systematic and comprehensive literature assessment was performed, querying the following databases: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Endbase. The databases were searched from their inception to 22 March 2022. Five independent reviewers screened the items and extracted those which were more pertinent within the scope of this review. Although nanotechnology has been on the bench for many years, most of the studies in obstetrics are preclinical. Ongoing research spans from the development of diagnostic tools, including optimized strategies to selectively confine contrast agents in the maternal bloodstream and approaches to improve diagnostics tests to be used in obstetrics, to the synthesis of innovative delivery nanosystems for therapeutic interventions. Using nanotechnology to achieve spatial and temporal control over the delivery of therapeutic agents (e.g., commonly used drugs, more recently defined formulations, or gene therapy-based approaches) offers significant advantages, including the possibility to target specific cells/tissues of interest (e.g., the maternal bloodstream, uterus wall, or fetal compartment). This characteristic of nanotechnology-driven therapy reduces side effects and the amount of therapeutic agent used. However, nanotoxicology appears to be a significant obstacle to adopting these technologies in clinical therapeutic praxis. Further research is needed in order to improve these techniques, as they have tremendous potential to improve the accuracy of the tests applied in clinical praxis. This review showed the increasing interest in nanotechnology applications in obstetrics disorders and pregnancy-related pathologies to improve the diagnostic algorithms, monitor pregnancy-related diseases, and implement new treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Bertozzi
- Breast Unit, Department of Surgery, DAME, University Hospital of “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Ennergi Research (Non-Profit Organisation), 33050 Lestizza, Italy
| | - Bruna Corradetti
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Luca Seriau
- Breast Unit, Department of Surgery, DAME, University Hospital of “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - José Andrés Diaz Ñañez
- Breast Unit, Department of Surgery, DAME, University Hospital of “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Ennergi Research (Non-Profit Organisation), 33050 Lestizza, Italy
| | - Carla Cedolini
- Breast Unit, Department of Surgery, DAME, University Hospital of “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Ennergi Research (Non-Profit Organisation), 33050 Lestizza, Italy
| | - Arrigo Fruscalzo
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Fribourg, 1752 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Cesselli
- Institute of Pathology, DAME, University of Udine, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Angelo Cagnacci
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Infant Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Ambrogio P. Londero
- Ennergi Research (Non-Profit Organisation), 33050 Lestizza, Italy
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Infant Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: or
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5
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Tse WH, Higgins S, Patel D, Xing M, West AR, Labouta HI, Keijzer R. The maternal-fetal transfer of passive immunity as a mechanism of transplacental nanoparticle drug delivery for prenatal therapies. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:5243-5253. [PMID: 35912636 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm00293k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Nanoparticles administered into the maternal circulation and across the placenta are a potential clinical therapy to treat congenital diseases. The mechanism by which nanoparticles can safely cross the placenta for targeted drug delivery to the fetus remains poorly understood. We demonstrate that the maternal-fetal transfer of passive immunity through the neonatal Fc Receptor (FcRn) can induce the transplacental transfer of chitosan nanoparticles modifed with IgG antibodies (414 ± 27 nm). The transfer of FITC-tagged IgG-modified chitosan nanoparticles was 2.8 times higher (p = 0.0264) compared to similarly-sized unmodified chitosan nanoparticles (375 ± 17 nm). Co-administration of free IgG competitively diminished the transplacental transfer of IgG-modified nanoparticles, yet unmodified nanoparticles remained unaffected. Colocalization of the FcRn and the IgG-modified chitosan nanoparticles were observed with confocal microscopy. Barrier function before and after nanoparticle administration remained intact as determined by TEER (75-79 Ω cm2) and immmunofluorescence of ZO-1 tight junction proteins. The results provide insight into the clinical applications of nanoparticles for prenatal therapies using the mechanism of the maternal-fetal transfer of passive immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Hei Tse
- Departments of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatrics & Child Health, University of Manitoba, R3E 0W2, Manitoba, Canada. .,Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, R3E 3P4, Manitoba, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, R3E 0W2, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Sean Higgins
- Departments of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatrics & Child Health, University of Manitoba, R3E 0W2, Manitoba, Canada. .,Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, R3E 3P4, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Daywin Patel
- Departments of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatrics & Child Health, University of Manitoba, R3E 0W2, Manitoba, Canada. .,Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, R3E 3P4, Manitoba, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, R3E 0W2, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Malcolm Xing
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Manitoba, R3T 2N2, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Adrian R West
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, R3E 3P4, Manitoba, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, R3E 0W2, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Hagar I Labouta
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, R3E 3P4, Manitoba, Canada.,Apotex Centre, College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, R3E 3T5, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Richard Keijzer
- Departments of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatrics & Child Health, University of Manitoba, R3E 0W2, Manitoba, Canada. .,Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, R3E 3P4, Manitoba, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, R3E 0W2, Manitoba, Canada
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6
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Fobian SF, Cheng Z, ten Hagen TLM. Smart Lipid-Based Nanosystems for Therapeutic Immune Induction against Cancers: Perspectives and Outlooks. Pharmaceutics 2021; 14:26. [PMID: 35056922 PMCID: PMC8779430 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, a promising and widely applied mode of oncotherapy, makes use of immune stimulants and modulators to overcome the immune dysregulation present in cancer, and leverage the host's immune capacity to eliminate tumors. Although some success has been seen in this field, toxicity and weak immune induction remain challenges. Liposomal nanosystems, previously used as targeting agents, are increasingly functioning as immunotherapeutic vehicles, with potential for delivery of contents, immune induction, and synergistic drug packaging. These systems are tailorable, multifunctional, and smart. Liposomes may deliver various immune reagents including cytokines, specific T-cell receptors, antibody fragments, and immune checkpoint inhibitors, and also present a promising platform upon which personalized medicine approaches can be built, especially with preclinical and clinical potentials of liposomes often being frustrated by inter- and intrapatient variation. In this review, we show the potential of liposomes in cancer immunotherapy, as well as the methods for synthesis and in vivo progression thereof. Both preclinical and clinical studies are included to comprehensively illuminate prospects and challenges for future research and application.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Timo L. M. ten Hagen
- Laboratory Experimental Oncology (LEO), Department of Pathology, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (S.-F.F.); (Z.C.)
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7
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Challenges of Current Anticancer Treatment Approaches with Focus on Liposomal Drug Delivery Systems. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14090835. [PMID: 34577537 PMCID: PMC8466509 DOI: 10.3390/ph14090835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
According to a 2020 World Health Organization report (Globocan 2020), cancer was a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020. The aim of anticancer therapy is to specifically inhibit the growth of cancer cells while sparing normal dividing cells. Conventional chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgical treatments have often been plagued by the frequency and severity of side effects as well as severe patient discomfort. Cancer targeting by drug delivery systems, owing to their selective targeting, efficacy, biocompatibility and high drug payload, provides an attractive alternative treatment; however, there are technical, therapeutic, manufacturing and clinical barriers that limit their use. This article provides a brief review of the challenges of conventional anticancer therapies and anticancer drug targeting with a special focus on liposomal drug delivery systems.
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8
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Pereira KV, Giacomeli R, Gomes de Gomes M, Haas SE. The challenge of using nanotherapy during pregnancy: Technological aspects and biomedical implications. Placenta 2020; 100:75-80. [PMID: 32862059 PMCID: PMC7431318 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
During the period of pregnancy, several processes and physiological adaptations occur in the body and metabolism of pregnant woman. These physiological adaptations in pregnant woman end up leading to a suppression in immune system favoring obstetric complications to the mother, fetus and placental tissue. An effective pharmacological therapy for these complications is still a challenge, since some drugs during pregnancy can have deleterious and teratogenic effects. An emerging alternative to pharmacological therapy during pregnancy is drugs encapsulated in nanoparticles (NP), recent area called nano-obstetrics. NP have the advantage of drug targeting and reduction of side effects. Then, maternal, placental or fetal uptake can be expected, depending on the characteristics of NP. Inorganic NP, crossing placental barrier effectively, but have several nanotoxicological effects. While organic NP appear to have a better targeting capacity and have few toxicological effects, but the studies are still scarce. Thus, in this review, were examined questions related to use and impact of physicochemical aspects of inorganic and organic NP during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelle Velasques Pereira
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, UFSM, Av. Roraima n.1000, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Renata Giacomeli
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pampa, UNIPAMPA, Campus Uruguaiana, BR 472, Km 7, 97500-970, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Gomes de Gomes
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pampa, UNIPAMPA, Campus Uruguaiana, BR 472, Km 7, 97500-970, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Sandra Elisa Haas
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pampa, UNIPAMPA, Campus Uruguaiana, BR 472, Km 7, 97500-970, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, UFSM, Av. Roraima n.1000, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
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9
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McKay EC, Counts SE. Oxytocin Receptor Signaling in Vascular Function and Stroke. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:574499. [PMID: 33071746 PMCID: PMC7544744 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.574499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxytocin receptor (OXTR) is a G protein-coupled receptor with a diverse repertoire of intracellular signaling pathways, which are activated in response to binding oxytocin (OXT) and a similar nonapeptide, vasopressin. This review summarizes the cell and molecular biology of the OXTR and its downstream signaling cascades, particularly focusing on the vasoactive functions of OXTR signaling in humans and animal models, as well as the clinical applications of OXTR targeting cerebrovascular accidents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin C McKay
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Scott E Counts
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States.,Department of Family Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Hauenstein Neurosciences Center, Mercy Health Saint Mary's Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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10
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Li J, Tan T, Zhao L, Liu M, You Y, Zeng Y, Chen D, Xie T, Zhang L, Fu C, Zeng Z. Recent Advancements in Liposome-Targeting Strategies for the Treatment of Gliomas: A Systematic Review. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2020; 3:5500-5528. [PMID: 35021787 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c00705] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Malignant tumors represent some of the most intractable diseases that endanger human health. A glioma is a tumor of the central nervous system that is characterized by severe invasiveness, blurred boundaries between the tumor and surrounding normal tissue, difficult surgical removal, and high recurrence. Moreover, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and multidrug resistance (MDR) are important factors that contribute to the lack of efficacy of chemotherapy in treating gliomas. A liposome is a biofilm-like drug delivery system with a unique phospholipid bilayer that exhibits high affinities with human tissues/organs (e.g., BBB). After more than five decades of development, classical and engineered liposomes consist of four distinct generations, each with different characteristics: (i) traditional liposomes, (ii) stealth liposomes, (iii) targeting liposomes, and (iv) biomimetic liposomes, which offer a promising approach to promote drugs across the BBB and to reverse MDR. Here, we review the history, preparatory methods, and physicochemical properties of liposomes. Furthermore, we discuss the mechanisms by which liposomes have assisted in the diagnosis and treatment of gliomas, including drug transport across the BBB, inhibition of efflux transporters, reversal of MDR, and induction of immune responses. Finally, we highlight ongoing and future clinical trials and applications toward further developing and testing the efficacies of liposomes in treating gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- Holistic Integrative Pharmacy Institutes, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine from Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tiantian Tan
- Holistic Integrative Pharmacy Institutes, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine from Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liping Zhao
- Holistic Integrative Pharmacy Institutes, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine from Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengmeng Liu
- Holistic Integrative Pharmacy Institutes, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine from Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yu You
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Yiying Zeng
- Holistic Integrative Pharmacy Institutes, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine from Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dajing Chen
- Holistic Integrative Pharmacy Institutes, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine from Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tian Xie
- Holistic Integrative Pharmacy Institutes, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine from Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lele Zhang
- School of Medicine, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, Sichuan, China
| | - Chaomei Fu
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhaowu Zeng
- Holistic Integrative Pharmacy Institutes, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China.,Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine from Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang, China
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Di J, Xie F, Xu Y. When liposomes met antibodies: Drug delivery and beyond. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2020; 154-155:151-162. [PMID: 32926944 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Drug encapsulated liposomes and monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) are two distinctively different classes of therapeutics, but both aim to become the ultimate "magic bullet". While PEGylated liposomes rely on the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect for accumulation in solid tumor tissues, Mabs are designed to bind tightly to specific surface antigens on target cells to exert effector functions. Immunoliposome (IL) refers to the structural combination of liposomes and antibodies, whereas the antibodies are usually decorated on the liposome surface. ILs can therefore take advantage of interactions between antibodies and cancer cells for more efficient endocytosis and intracellular drug delivery. The antibody structure, affinity, density, as well as the liposome surface properties and drug to lipid ratios all contribute to the IL pharmacokinetic(PK) and pharmacodynamic(PD) behaviors. The optimal formulation parameters may vary for different target cells and tissues. Furthermore, besides the delivery of cytotoxic drugs to cancer cells, new ILs are being developed to interact with multiple target receptors, multiple target cells and trigger multiple therapeutic effects. We envision that the IL format can be a great platform for the molecular engineering of multi-valent, multi-specific interactions to achieve complex biological functions for therapeutic benefits, especially in the area of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxing Di
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China
| | - Fang Xie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, United States of America
| | - Yuhong Xu
- College of Pharmacy and Chemistry, Dali University, China.
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Panaro MA, Benameur T, Porro C. Hypothalamic Neuropeptide Brain Protection: Focus on Oxytocin. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9051534. [PMID: 32438751 PMCID: PMC7290962 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) is hypothalamic neuropeptide synthetized in the brain by magnocellular and parvo cellular neurons of the paraventricular (PVN), supraoptic (SON) and accessory nuclei (AN) of the hypothalamus. OXT acts in the central and peripheral nervous systems via G-protein-coupled receptors. The classical physiological functions of OXT are uterine contractions, the milk ejection reflex during lactation, penile erection and sexual arousal, but recent studies have demonstrated that OXT may have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties and regulate immune and anti-inflammatory responses. In the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases, microglia are present in an active form and release high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines that are implicated in the process of neural injury. A promising treatment for neurodegenerative diseases involves new therapeutic approaches targeting activated microglia. Recent studies have reported that OXT exerts neuroprotective effects through the inhibition of production of pro-inflammatory mediators, and in the development of correct neural circuitry. The focus of this review is to attribute a new important role of OXT in neuroprotection through the microglia–OXT interaction of immature and adult brains. In addition, we analyzed the strategies that could enhance the delivery of OXT in the brain and amplify its positive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Antonietta Panaro
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Tarek Benameur
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, 31982 Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Chiara Porro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Surface-Functionalized Nanoparticles as Efficient Tools in Targeted Therapy of Pregnancy Complications. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20153642. [PMID: 31349643 PMCID: PMC6695948 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Minimizing exposure of the fetus to medication and reducing adverse off-target effects in the mother are the primary challenges in developing novel drugs to treat pregnancy complications. Nanomedicine has introduced opportunities for the development of novel platforms enabling targeted delivery of drugs in pregnancy. This review sets out to discuss the advances and potential of surface-functionalized nanoparticles in the targeted therapy of pregnancy complications. We first describe the human placental anatomy, which is fundamental for developing placenta-targeted therapy, and then we review current knowledge of nanoparticle transplacental transport mechanisms. Meanwhile, recent surface-functionalized nanoparticles for targeting the uterus and placenta are examined. Indeed, surface-functionalized nanoparticles could help prevent transplacental passage and promote placental-specific drug delivery, thereby enhancing efficacy and improving safety. We have achieved promising results in targeting the placenta via placental chondroitin sulfate A (plCSA), which is exclusively expressed in the placenta, using plCSA binding peptide (plCSA-BP)-decorated nanoparticles. Others have also focused on using placenta- and uterus-enriched molecules as targets to deliver therapeutics via surface-functionalized nanoparticles. Additionally, we propose that placenta-specific exosomes and surface-modified exosomes might be potential tools in the targeted therapy of pregnancy complications. Altogether, surface-functionalized nanoparticles have great potential value as clinical tools in the targeted therapy of pregnancy complications.
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Nakarada Đ, Pejin B, Tommonaro G, Mojović M. Liposomal integration method for assessing antioxidative activity of water insoluble compounds towards biologically relevant free radicals: example of avarol. J Liposome Res 2019; 30:218-226. [PMID: 31146614 DOI: 10.1080/08982104.2019.1625378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The liposomal integration method, in conjunction with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, has been presented for the investigation of antioxidant activity of selected water-insoluble compound towards biologically relevant free radicals. This method was applied to avarol, a sesquiterpenoid hydroquinone isolated from the marine sponge Dysidea avara. The antioxidant activity of water-insoluble avarol towards •OH, O2•- and NO• radicals was attained by its incorporation into the DPPC liposomes bilayer, and towards ascorbyl radicals in the organic solvent. Avarol's activity towards •OH, O2•-, NO• and ascorbyl radicals was 86.2%, 50.9%, 23.6% and 61.8%, respectively, showing its significant radical scavenging potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Đura Nakarada
- Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Boris Pejin
- Department of Life Sciences, Institute for Multidisciplinary Research - IMSI, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Miloš Mojović
- Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Hua S, Vaughan B. In vitro comparison of liposomal drug delivery systems targeting the oxytocin receptor: a potential novel treatment for obstetric complications. Int J Nanomedicine 2019; 14:2191-2206. [PMID: 30988616 PMCID: PMC6443222 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s198116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Targeted intervention to the uterus has great potential for the treatment of obstetric complications (eg, preterm birth, dysfunctional labor, and postpartum hemorrhage) by improving the effectiveness and safety of therapeutic compounds. In particular, targeting the oxytocin receptor (OTR) is a novel approach for drug delivery to the uterus. The aim of this study was to report the complete data set for the pharmaceutical synthesis and in vitro characterization of PEGylated liposomes conjugated with anti-OTR monoclonal antibodies (OTR-Lipo) or atosiban (ATO-Lipo, OTR antagonist). Methods OTR-targeted liposomal platforms composed of 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-2-phosphocholine and cholesterol were prepared according to the method of dried lipid film hydration. Ligands were conjugated with the surface of liposomes using optimized methods to maximize conjugation efficiency. The liposomes were characterized for particle size, ligand conjugation, drug encapsulation, liposome stability, specificity of binding, cellular internalization, mechanistic pathway of cellular uptake, and cellular toxicity. Results Both OTR-Lipo and ATO-Lipo showed significant and specific binding to OTRs in a concentration-dependent manner compared to all control groups. There was no significant difference in binding values between OTR-Lipo and ATO-Lipo across all concentrations evaluated. In addition, OTR-Lipo (81.61%±7.84%) and ATO-Lipo (85.59%±8.28%) demonstrated significantly increased cellular internalization in comparison with rabbit IgG immunoliposomes (9.14%±1.71%) and conventional liposomes (4.09%±0.78%) at 2.02 mM phospholipid concentration. Cellular association following liposome incubation at 4.05 mM resulted in similar findings. Evaluation of the mechanistic pathway of cellular uptake indicated that they undergo internalization through both clathrin- and caveolin-mediated mechanisms. Furthermore, cellular toxicity studies have shown no significant effect of both liposomal platforms on cell viability. Conclusion This study further supports OTRs as a novel pharmaceutical target for drug delivery. OTR-targeted liposomal platforms may provide an effective way to deliver existing therapies directly to myometrial tissue and avoid adverse effects by circumventing non-target tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Hua
- Therapeutic Targeting Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia, .,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia,
| | - Benjamin Vaughan
- Centre for Organic Electronics, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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