1
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Kawaguchi Y, Terada S, Futaki S. An approach for the intracellular delivery of IgG via enzymatic ligation with a cell-permeable attenuated cationic amphiphilic lytic peptide. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 111:117835. [PMID: 39053075 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Achieving effective intracellular delivery of therapeutic molecules such as antibodies (IgG) is a challenge in biomedical research and pharmaceutical development. Conjugation of IgG with a cell-penetrating peptide is a rational approach. Here, not only the efficacy of the conjugates in internalizing into cells, but also the physicochemical property of the conjugates allowing their solubilized states in solution without forming aggregates are critical. In this study, we have shown that the first requirement can be addressed using a cell-permeable attenuated cationic amphiphilic lytic (CP-ACAL) peptide, L17ER4. The second requirement can be addressed by ligation of IgG to L17ER4 using sortase A, where the use of a linker of appropriate chain length is also important. For evaluation, the intracellular delivery efficacy was studied using conjugate structures with different orientations and conjugation modes of L17ER4 in ligation to a model protein, green fluorescent protein fused to a nuclear localization signal (NLS-EGFP). The effect of tetraarginine positioning in the L17ER4 sequence was also investigated. Following these studies, an optimized peptide sequence containing L17ER4 was ligated to an anti-green fluorescent protein (GFP) IgG bearing a sortase A recognition sequence. Treatment of the cells with the conjugate of anti-GFP IgG and L17ER4 resulted in a high efficiency of cytosolic translocation of the conjugate and the binding to the target protein in the cell without significant aggregate formation. The feasibility of the d-form of L17ER4 as a CP-ACAL was also confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshimasa Kawaguchi
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji City, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan.
| | - Sakahiro Terada
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji City, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji City, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan.
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2
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Sanaee M, Ronquist KG, Sandberg E, Morrell JM, Widengren J, Gallo K. Antibody-Loading of Biological Nanocarrier Vesicles Derived from Red-Blood-Cell Membranes. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:22711-22718. [PMID: 38826552 PMCID: PMC11137724 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c00650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Antibodies, disruptive potent therapeutic agents against pharmacological targets, face a barrier in crossing immune systems and cellular membranes. To overcome these, various strategies have been explored including shuttling via liposomes or biocamouflaged nanoparticles. Here, we demonstrate the feasibility of loading antibodies into exosome-mimetic nanovesicles derived from human red-blood-cell membranes, which can act as nanocarriers for intracellular delivery. Goat-antichicken antibodies are loaded into erythrocyte-derived nanovesicles, and their loading yields are characterized and compared with smaller dUTP-cargo molecules. Applying dual-color coincident fluorescence burst analyses, the loading yield of nanocarriers is rigorously profiled at the single-vesicle level, overcoming challenges due to size-heterogeneity and demonstrating a maximum antibody-loading yield of 38-41% at the optimal vesicle radius of 52 nm. The achieved average loading yields, amounting to 14% across the entire nanovesicle population, with more than two antibodies per loaded vesicle, are fully comparable to those obtained for the much smaller dUTP molecules loaded in the nanovesicles after additional exosome-spin-column purification. The results suggest a promising new avenue for therapeutic delivery of antibodies, potentially encompassing also intracellular targets and suitable for large-scale pharmacological applications, which relies on the exosome-mimetic properties, biocompatibility, and low-immunogenicity of bioengineered nanocarriers synthesized from human erythrocyte membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Sanaee
- Department
of Applied Physics, School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10691, Sweden
| | - K. Göran Ronquist
- Department
of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University
of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Elin Sandberg
- Department
of Applied Physics, School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10691, Sweden
| | - Jane M. Morrell
- Department
of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University
of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Jerker Widengren
- Department
of Applied Physics, School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10691, Sweden
| | - Katia Gallo
- Department
of Applied Physics, School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10691, Sweden
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3
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Hirai Y, Kawaguchi Y, Kasahara C, Hirose H, Futaki S. Liquid Droplet-Mediated Formulation of Lipid Nanoparticles Encapsulating Immunoglobulin G for Cytosolic Delivery. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:1653-1661. [PMID: 38290425 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Antibodies are promising biopharmaceuticals that offer new therapeutic options for diseases. Since antibodies are membrane impermeable, approaches that allow immunoglobulin Gs (IgGs) to access intracellular therapeutic targets would open new horizons in antibody therapies. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are among the classes of vectors that deliver biopharmaceuticals into cells. Using liquid droplets formed by IgG and polyglutamate, we report here a unique approach to forming LNPs containing IgG via liquid droplets formed in the presence of polyglutamic acid (polyE). The addition of polyE promoted the formation of smaller LNPs with cationic lipids than in its absence, and the formed LNPs were much more efficient in cytosolic IgG delivery and targeting of cellular proteins. This approach also allows for the encapsulation of intact IgG without the need for chemical or sequence modification. The intracellularly delivered IgG retained its target binding ability, as demonstrated by labeling of nuclear pore complex and HRas-GFP and inhibition of antiapoptotic cell death by phosphorylated Akt protein in live cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Hirai
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Kawaguchi
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Chisato Kasahara
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Hisaaki Hirose
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
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4
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Kawaguchi Y, Kawamura Y, Hirose H, Kiyokawa M, Hirate M, Hirata T, Higuchi Y, Futaki S. E3MPH16: An efficient endosomolytic peptide for intracellular protein delivery. J Control Release 2024; 367:877-891. [PMID: 38301930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.01.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
To facilitate the introduction of proteins, such as antibodies, into cells, a variety of delivery peptides have been engineered. These peptides are typically highly cationic and somewhat hydrophobic, enabling cytosolic protein delivery at the cost of causing cell damage by rupturing membranes. This balance between delivery effectiveness and cytotoxicity presents obstacles for their real-world use. To tackle this problem, we designed a new endosome-disruptive cytosolic delivery peptide, E3MPH16, inspired by mastoparan X (MP). E3MPH16 was engineered to incorporate three Glu (E3) and 16 His (H16) residues at the N- and C-termini of MP, respectively. The negative charges of E3 substantially mitigate the cell-surface damage induced by MP. The H16 segment is known to enhance cell-surface adsorption and endocytic uptake of the associated molecules. With these modifications, E3MPH16 was successfully trapped within endosomes. The acidification of endosomes is expected to protonate the side chains of E3 and H16, enabling E3MPH16 to rupture endosomal membranes. As a result, nearly 100% of cells achieved cytosolic delivery of a model biomacromolecule, Alexa Fluor 488-labeled dextran (10 kDa), via endosomal escape by co-incubation with E3MPH16. The delivery process also suggested the involvement of macropinocytosis and caveolae-mediated endocytosis. With the assistance of E3MPH16, Cre recombinase and anti-Ras-IgG delivered into HEK293 cells and HT1080 cells enabled gene recombination and inhibited cell proliferation, respectively. The potential for in vivo application of this intracellular delivery method was further validated by topically injecting the green fluorescent protein fused with a nuclear localization signal (NLS-GFP) along with E3MPH16 into Colon-26 tumor xenografts in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshimasa Kawaguchi
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan.
| | - Yuki Kawamura
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Hisaaki Hirose
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Megumi Kiyokawa
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Momo Hirate
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Hirata
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Yuriko Higuchi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan.
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5
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Khramtsov YV, Ulasov AV, Lupanova TN, Slastnikova TA, Rosenkranz AA, Bunin ES, Georgiev GP, Sobolev AS. Intracellular Degradation of SARS-CoV-2 N-Protein Caused by Modular Nanotransporters Containing Anti-N-Protein Monobody and a Sequence That Recruits the Keap1 E3 Ligase. Pharmaceutics 2023; 16:4. [PMID: 38276482 PMCID: PMC10818351 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The proper viral assembly relies on both nucleic acids and structural viral proteins. Thus a biologically active agent that provides the degradation of one of these key proteins and/or destroys the viral factory could suppress viral replication efficiently. The nucleocapsid protein (N-protein) is a key protein for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. As a bioactive agent, we offer a modular nanotransporter (MNT) developed by us, which, in addition to an antibody mimetic to the N-protein, contains an amino acid sequence for the attraction of the Keap1 E3 ubiquitin ligase. This should lead to the subsequent degradation of the N-protein. We have shown that the functional properties of modules within the MNT permit its internalization into target cells, endosome escape into the cytosol, and binding to the N-protein. Using flow cytometry and western blotting, we demonstrated significant degradation of N-protein when A549 and A431 cells transfected with a plasmid coding for N-protein were incubated with the developed MNTs. The proposed MNTs open up a new approach for the treatment of viral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri V. Khramtsov
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Alexey V. Ulasov
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Tatiana N. Lupanova
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Tatiana A. Slastnikova
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Andrey A. Rosenkranz
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1-12 Leninskie Gory St., 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Egor S. Bunin
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1-12 Leninskie Gory St., 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Georgii P. Georgiev
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Alexander S. Sobolev
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1-12 Leninskie Gory St., 119234 Moscow, Russia
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6
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Lamela-Gómez I, Gonçalves LM, Almeida AJ, Luzardo-Álvarez A. Infliximab microencapsulation: an innovative approach for intra-articular administration of biologics in the management of rheumatoid arthritis-in vitro evaluation. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:3030-3058. [PMID: 37294425 PMCID: PMC10624745 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01372-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Microencapsulation of the therapeutical monoclonal antibody infliximab (INF) was investigated as an innovative approach to improve its stability and to achieve formulations with convenient features for intra-articular administration. Ultrasonic atomization (UA), a novel alternative to microencapsulate labile drugs, was compared with the conventional emulsion/evaporation method (Em/Ev) using biodegradable polymers, specifically Polyactive® 1000PEOT70PBT30 [poly(ethylene-oxide-terephthalate)/poly(butylene-terephthalate); PEOT-PBT] and its polymeric blends with poly-(D, L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) RG502 and RG503 (PEOT-PBT:PLGA; 65:35). Six different formulations of spherical core-shell microcapsules were successfully developed and characterized. The UA method achieved a significantly higher encapsulation efficiency (69.7-80.25%) than Em/Ev (17.3-23.0%). Mean particle size, strongly determined by the microencapsulation method and to a lesser extent by polymeric composition, ranged from 26.6 to 49.9 µm for UA and 1.5-2.1 µm for Em/Ev. All formulations demonstrated sustained INF release in vitro for up to 24 days, with release rates modulated by polymeric composition and microencapsulation technique. Both methods preserved INF biological activity, with microencapsulated INF showing higher efficacy than commercial formulations at comparable doses regarding bioactive tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) neutralization according to WEHI-13VAR bioassay. Microparticles' biocompatibility and extensive internalization by THP-1-derived macrophages was demonstrated. Furthermore, high in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was achieved after treatment of THP-1 cells with INF-loaded microcapsules, significatively reducing in vitro production of TNF-α and interleucine-6 (Il-6).
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Affiliation(s)
- Iván Lamela-Gómez
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Terra, 27002, Lugo, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Lídia M Gonçalves
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - António J Almeida
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Asteria Luzardo-Álvarez
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Terra, 27002, Lugo, Spain.
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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7
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Khramtsov YV, Ulasov AV, Slastnikova TA, Rosenkranz AA, Lupanova TN, Georgiev GP, Sobolev AS. Modular Nanotransporters Delivering Biologically Active Molecules to the Surface of Mitochondria. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2687. [PMID: 38140028 PMCID: PMC10748074 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment of various diseases, in particular cancer, usually requires the targeting of biologically active molecules at a selected subcellular compartment. We modified our previously developed modular nanotransporters (MNTs) for targeting mitochondria. The new MNTs are capable of binding to the protein predominantly localized on the outer mitochondrial membrane, Keap1. These MNTs possessing antiKeap1 monobody co-localize with mitochondria upon addition to the cells. They efficiently interact with Keap1 both in solution and within living cells. A conjugate of the MNT with a photosensitizer, chlorin e6, demonstrated significantly higher photocytotoxicity than chlorin e6 alone. We assume that MNTs of this kind can improve efficiency of therapeutic photosensitizers and radionuclides emitting short-range particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri V. Khramtsov
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (T.N.L.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Alexey V. Ulasov
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (T.N.L.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Tatiana A. Slastnikova
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (T.N.L.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Andrey A. Rosenkranz
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (T.N.L.); (G.P.G.)
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1-12 Leninskie Gory St., 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatiana N. Lupanova
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (T.N.L.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Georgii P. Georgiev
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (T.N.L.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Alexander S. Sobolev
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (T.N.L.); (G.P.G.)
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1-12 Leninskie Gory St., 119234 Moscow, Russia
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8
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Feng X, Chang R, Zhu H, Yang Y, Ji Y, Liu D, Qin H, Yin J, Rong H. Engineering Proteins for Cell Entry. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:4868-4882. [PMID: 37708383 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Proteins are essential for life, as they participate in all vital processes in the body. In the past decade, delivery of active proteins to specific cells and organs has attracted increasing interest. However, most proteins cannot enter the cytoplasm due to the cell membrane acting as a natural barrier. To overcome this challenge, various proteins have been engineered to acquire cell-penetrating capacity by mimicking or modifying natural shuttling proteins. In this review, we provide an overview of the different types of engineered cell-penetrating proteins such as cell-penetrating peptides, supercharged proteins, receptor-binding proteins, and bacterial toxins. We also discuss some strategies for improving endosomal escape such as pore formation, the proton sponge effect, and hijacking intracellular trafficking pathways. Finally, we introduce some novel methods and technologies for designing and detecting engineered cell-penetrating proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Feng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ruilong Chang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haichao Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yifan Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dingkang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hai Qin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital Guizhou Hospital, No. 206, Sixian Street, Baiyun District, Guiyang, Guizhou 550014, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haibo Rong
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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9
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Porello I, Cellesi F. Intracellular delivery of therapeutic proteins. New advancements and future directions. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1211798. [PMID: 37304137 PMCID: PMC10247999 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1211798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Achieving the full potential of therapeutic proteins to access and target intracellular receptors will have enormous benefits in advancing human health and fighting disease. Existing strategies for intracellular protein delivery, such as chemical modification and nanocarrier-based protein delivery approaches, have shown promise but with limited efficiency and safety concerns. The development of more effective and versatile delivery tools is crucial for the safe and effective use of protein drugs. Nanosystems that can trigger endocytosis and endosomal disruption, or directly deliver proteins into the cytosol, are essential for successful therapeutic effects. This article aims to provide a brief overview of the current methods for intracellular protein delivery to mammalian cells, highlighting current challenges, new developments, and future research opportunities.
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10
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Koch KC, Tew GN. Functional antibody delivery: Advances in cellular manipulation. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 192:114586. [PMID: 36280179 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The current therapeutic antibody market in the U.S. consists of 100 antibody-based products and their market value is expected to explode beyond $300 billion by 2025. These therapies are presently limited to extracellular targets due to the innate inability of antibodies to transverse membranes. To expand the number of accessible therapeutic targets, intracellular antibody delivery is necessary. Many delivery vehicles for antibodies have been used with some promising results, such as nanoparticles and cell penetrating polymers. Despite the success of these delivery platforms using model antibody cargo, there is a surprisingly small number of studies that focus on functional antibody delivery into the cytosol that also measures a cellular response. Antibodies can be designed for essentially unlimited targets, including proteins and DNA, that will ultimately control cell function once delivered inside cells. Advancement in cellular manipulation depends on the application of intracellularly delivering functional antibodies to achieve a desired result. This review focuses on the emerging field of functional antibody delivery which enables various cellular responses and cell manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla C Koch
- Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Gregory N Tew
- Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States; Molecular & Cellular Biology Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States; Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
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11
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Zuraw BL, Maurer M, Sexton DJ, Cicardi M. Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies with a focus on hereditary angioedema. Allergol Int 2023; 72:54-62. [PMID: 35787344 DOI: 10.1016/j.alit.2022.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been shown to be effective and generally safe across a continually expanding list of therapeutic areas. We describe the advantages and limitations of mAbs as a therapeutic option compared with small molecules. Specifically, we discuss a novel mAb in the treatment of hereditary angioedema (HAE), a rare and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by recurrent unpredictable swelling attacks. HAE is mediated by dysregulation of plasma kallikrein activity leading to overproduction of bradykinin. Current prophylactic treatment for HAE includes androgens or replacement of the endogenous plasma kallikrein inhibitor, C1 inhibitor. However, there remains an unmet need for an effective, less burdensome treatment option. Lanadelumab is a fully human mAb targeting plasma kallikrein. Results from clinical trials, including a pivotal Phase 3 study and its ensuing open-label extension study, demonstrated that lanadelumab is associated with few treatment-related adverse events and reduced the rate of HAE attacks. This novel treatment option has the potential to significantly improve the lives of patients with HAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce L Zuraw
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Marcus Maurer
- Institute of Allergology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Marco Cicardi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Luigi Sacco, University of Milan, IRCCS ICS Maugeri, Milano, Italy
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12
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First direct evidence for direct cell-membrane penetrations of polycationic homopoly(amino acid)s produced by bacteria. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1132. [PMID: 36289442 PMCID: PMC9606270 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04110-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria produce polycationic homopoly(amino acid)s, which are characterized by isopeptide backbones. Although the biological significance of polycationic homopoly(amino acid)s remains unclear, increasing attention has recently been focused on their potential use to achieve cellular internalization. Here, for the first time, we provide direct evidence that two representative bacterial polycationic isopeptides, ε-poly-L-α-lysine (ε-PαL) and ε-oligo-L-β-lysine (ε-OβL), were internalized into mammalian cells by direct cell-membrane penetration and then diffused throughout the cytosol. In this study, we used clickable ε-PαL and ε-OβL derivatives carrying a C-terminal azide group, which were enzymatically produced and then conjugated with a fluorescent dye to analyze subcellular localization. Interestingly, fluorescent proteins conjugated with the clickable ε-PαL or ε-OβL were also internalized into cells and diffused throughout the cytosol. Notably, a Cre recombinase conjugate with ε-PαL entered cells and mediated the Cre/loxP recombination, and ε-PαL was found to deliver a full-length IgG antibody to the cytosol and nucleus.
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13
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Negi S, Hamori M, Kawahara-Nakagawa Y, Imanishi M, Kurehara M, Kitada C, Kawahito Y, Kishi K, Manabe T, Kawamura N, Kitagishi H, Mashimo M, Shibata N, Sugiura Y. Importance of two-dimensional cation clusters induced by protein folding in intrinsic intracellular membrane permeability. RSC Chem Biol 2022; 3:1076-1084. [PMID: 35975000 PMCID: PMC9347356 DOI: 10.1039/d2cb00098a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the cell penetration of Sp1 zinc finger proteins (Sp1 ZF) and the mechanism via which the total cationic charge and distribution of cationic residues on the protein surface affect intracellular trafficking. Sp1 ZFs showed intrinsic cell membrane permeability. The intracellular transfer of Sp1 ZFs other than 1F3 was dependent on the total cationic charge. Investigation of the effect of cationic residue distribution on intracellular membrane permeability revealed that the cellular uptake of unfolded Zn2+-non-coordinating Ala mutants was lower than that of the wild type. Therefore, the total cationic charge and distribution of cationic residues on the protein played crucial roles in intracellular translocation. Mutational studies revealed that the two-dimensional cation cluster on the protein surface significantly improved their cellular uptake. This study will contribute to the design of artificial cargoes that can efficiently transport target substances into cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeru Negi
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Doshisha Women's University, Koudo Kyotanabe Kyoto 610-0395 Japan
| | - Mami Hamori
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Doshisha Women's University, Koudo Kyotanabe Kyoto 610-0395 Japan
| | - Yuka Kawahara-Nakagawa
- Graduate School of Life Science, University of Hyogo 3-2-1 Kouto, Kamigori-cho Ako-gun Hyogo 678-1297 Japan
| | - Miki Imanishi
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University Uji Kyoto 611-0011 Japan
| | - Miku Kurehara
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Doshisha Women's University, Koudo Kyotanabe Kyoto 610-0395 Japan
| | - Chieri Kitada
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Doshisha Women's University, Koudo Kyotanabe Kyoto 610-0395 Japan
| | - Yuri Kawahito
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Doshisha Women's University, Koudo Kyotanabe Kyoto 610-0395 Japan
| | - Kanae Kishi
- Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University 1-2-3 Kasumi Minami-ku Hiroshima 734-8553 Japan
| | - Takayuki Manabe
- Clinical Research Support Center, Asahikawa Medical University Hospital 2-1-1-1 Midorigaokahigashi Asahikawa 078-8510 Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Kawamura
- Education Center for Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Niigata University of Pharmacy and Applied Life Sciences 265-1 Higashijima, Akiha-ku Niigata City Niigata 956-8603 Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kitagishi
- Department of Molecular Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Doshisha University Kyotanabe Kyoto 610-0321 Japan
| | - Masato Mashimo
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Doshisha Women's University, Koudo Kyotanabe Kyoto 610-0395 Japan
| | - Nobuhito Shibata
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Doshisha Women's University, Koudo Kyotanabe Kyoto 610-0395 Japan
| | - Yukio Sugiura
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Doshisha Women's University, Koudo Kyotanabe Kyoto 610-0395 Japan
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14
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Designing antibodies as therapeutics. Cell 2022; 185:2789-2805. [PMID: 35868279 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Antibody therapeutics are a large and rapidly expanding drug class providing major health benefits. We provide a snapshot of current antibody therapeutics including their formats, common targets, therapeutic areas, and routes of administration. Our focus is on selected emerging directions in antibody design where progress may provide a broad benefit. These topics include enhancing antibodies for cancer, antibody delivery to organs such as the brain, gastrointestinal tract, and lungs, plus antibody developability challenges including immunogenicity risk assessment and mitigation and subcutaneous delivery. Machine learning has the potential, albeit as yet largely unrealized, for a transformative future impact on antibody discovery and engineering.
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15
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Kong Y, Zeng K, Zhang Y, Shao J, Yan J, Liao JY, Wang W, Dai X, Weng Q, Yao SQ, Zeng S, Qian L. In vivo targeted delivery of antibodies into cancer cells with pH-responsive cell-penetrating poly(disulfide)s. Chem Commun (Camb) 2022; 58:1314-1317. [PMID: 35005760 DOI: 10.1039/d1cc06840g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cell-penetrating poly(disulfide)s (CPDs) are promising vehicles for cytosolic delivery of proteins. However, currently available arginine-rich CPD has rarely been reported for systemic delivery due to its "always" positive charge. Herein, we developed pH-responsive CPDIMD that executes tumor targeting delivery via protonation of imidazole groups within the acidic tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Kong
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Kui Zeng
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Ying Zhang
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Jinning Shao
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Jiaqi Yan
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Jia-Yu Liao
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Wenchao Wang
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Xiaoyang Dai
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Qinjie Weng
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Shao Q Yao
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, 117543, Singapore
| | - Su Zeng
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Linghui Qian
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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16
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Sakamoto K, Furukawa H, Arafiles JVV, Imanishi M, Matsuura K, Futaki S. Artificial Nanocage Formed via Self-Assembly of β-Annulus Peptide for Delivering Biofunctional Proteins into Cell Interiors. Bioconjug Chem 2022; 33:311-320. [PMID: 35049280 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.1c00534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Nanocarriers that deliver functional proteins to cell interiors are an attractive platform for the intracellular delivery of intact proteins without further modification, with in vivo compatibility. Development of efficient methods for cargo protein encapsulation and release in recipient cell cytosol is needed. Herein, we assess the feasibility of the abovementioned requirements using a protein nanocage (artificial nanocage) without compromising the structure and functions of the original protein and allowing for design flexibility of the surfaces and interiors. The protein nanocage formed via the self-assembly of the β-annulus peptide (24-amino acid peptide) in water was used as a model framework. The nitrilotriacetic acid moiety was displayed on the nanocage lumen for effective encapsulation of hexahistidine-tagged proteins in the presence of Ni2+, and the amphiphilic cationic lytic peptide HAad was displayed on a nanocage surface to attain cell permeability. Successful intracellular delivery of cargo proteins and targeting of cytosolic proteins by a nanobody were achieved, indicating the validity of the approach employed in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentarou Sakamoto
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Hiroto Furukawa
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8552, Japan
| | | | - Miki Imanishi
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Kazunori Matsuura
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8552, Japan.,Centre for Research on Green Sustainable Chemistry, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8552, Japan
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
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17
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Zorko M, Jones S, Langel Ü. Cell-penetrating peptides in protein mimicry and cancer therapeutics. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 180:114044. [PMID: 34774552 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Extensive research has been undertaken in the pursuit of anticancer therapeutics. Many anticancer drugs require specificity of delivery to cancer cells, whilst sparing healthy tissue. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), now well established as facilitators of intracellular delivery, have in recent years advanced to incorporate target specificity and thus possess great potential for the targeted delivery of anticancer cargoes. Though none have yet been approved for clinical use, this novel technology has already entered clinical trials. In this review we present CPPs, discuss their classification, mechanisms of cargo internalization and highlight strategies for conjugation to anticancer moieties including their incorporation into therapeutic proteins. As the mainstay of this review, strategies to build specificity into tumor targeting CPP constructs through exploitation of the tumor microenvironment and the use of tumor homing peptides are discussed, whilst acknowledging the extensive contribution made by CPP constructs to target specific protein-protein interactions integral to intracellular signaling pathways associated with tumor cell survival and progression. Finally, antibody/antigen CPP conjugates and their potential roles in cancer immunotherapy and diagnostics are considered. In summary, this review aims to harness the potential of CPP-aided drug delivery for future cancer therapies and diagnostics whilst highlighting some of the most recent achievements in selective delivery of anticancer drugs, including cytostatic drugs, to a range of tumor cells both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matjaž Zorko
- University of Ljubljana, Medical Faculty, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Vrazov trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sarah Jones
- University of Wolverhampton, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science & Engineering, Wulfruna Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1LY, UK.
| | - Ülo Langel
- University of Stockholm, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Svante Arrhenius väg 16, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden; Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, Tartu, Estonia 50411, Estonia.
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18
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Marschall ALJ. Targeting the Inside of Cells with Biologicals: Chemicals as a Delivery Strategy. BioDrugs 2021; 35:643-671. [PMID: 34705260 PMCID: PMC8548996 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-021-00500-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Delivering macromolecules into the cytosol or nucleus is possible in vitro for DNA, RNA and proteins, but translation for clinical use has been limited. Therapeutic delivery of macromolecules into cells requires overcoming substantially higher barriers compared to the use of small molecule drugs or proteins in the extracellular space. Breakthroughs like DNA delivery for approved gene therapies and RNA delivery for silencing of genes (patisiran, ONPATTRO®, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA) or for vaccination such as the RNA-based coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines demonstrated the feasibility of using macromolecules inside cells for therapy. Chemical carriers are part of the reason why these novel RNA-based therapeutics possess sufficient efficacy for their clinical application. A clear advantage of synthetic chemicals as carriers for macromolecule delivery is their favourable properties with respect to production and storage compared to more bioinspired vehicles like viral vectors or more complex drugs like cellular therapies. If biologicals can be applied to intracellular targets, the druggable space is substantially broadened by circumventing the limited utility of small molecules for blocking protein–protein interactions and the limitation of protein-based drugs to the extracellular space. An in depth understanding of the macromolecular cargo types, carrier types and the cell biology of delivery is crucial for optimal application and further development of biologicals inside cells. Basic mechanistic principles of the molecular and cell biological aspects of cytosolic/nuclear delivery of macromolecules, with particular consideration of protein delivery, are reviewed here. The efficiency of macromolecule delivery and applications in research and therapy are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L J Marschall
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Brunswick, Germany.
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19
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Hirai Y, Hirose H, Imanishi M, Asai T, Futaki S. Cytosolic protein delivery using pH-responsive, charge-reversible lipid nanoparticles. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19896. [PMID: 34615928 PMCID: PMC8494842 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99180-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Although proteins have attractive features as biopharmaceuticals, the difficulty in delivering them into the cell interior limits their applicability. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are a promising class of delivery vehicles. When designing a protein delivery system based on LNPs, the major challenges include: (i) formulation of LNPs with defined particle sizes and dispersity, (ii) efficient encapsulation of cargo proteins into LNPs, and (iii) effective cellular uptake and endosomal release into the cytosol. Dioleoylglycerophosphate-diethylenediamine (DOP-DEDA) is a pH-responsive, charge-reversible lipid. The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of DOP-DEDA-based LNPs for intracellular protein delivery. Considering the importance of electrostatic interactions in protein encapsulation into LNPs, a negatively charged green fluorescent protein (GFP) analog was successfully encapsulated into DOP-DEDA-based LNPs to yield diameters and polydispersity index of < 200 nm and < 0.2, respectively. Moreover, ~ 80% of the cargo proteins was encapsulated into the LNPs. Cytosolic distribution of fluorescent signals of the protein was observed for up to ~ 90% cells treated with the LNPs, indicating the facilitated endocytic uptake and endosomal escape of the cargo attained using the LNP system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Hirai
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
| | - Hisaaki Hirose
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
| | - Miki Imanishi
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Asai
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 52-1 Yada, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka, 422-8526, Japan.
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan.
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20
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Iwata T, Hirose H, Sakamoto K, Hirai Y, Arafiles JVV, Akishiba M, Imanishi M, Futaki S. Liquid Droplet Formation and Facile Cytosolic Translocation of IgG in the Presence of Attenuated Cationic Amphiphilic Lytic Peptides. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202105527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Iwata
- Institute for Chemical Research Kyoto University, Uji Kyoto 611-0011 Japan
| | - Hisaaki Hirose
- Institute for Chemical Research Kyoto University, Uji Kyoto 611-0011 Japan
| | - Kentarou Sakamoto
- Institute for Chemical Research Kyoto University, Uji Kyoto 611-0011 Japan
| | - Yusuke Hirai
- Institute for Chemical Research Kyoto University, Uji Kyoto 611-0011 Japan
| | | | - Misao Akishiba
- Institute for Chemical Research Kyoto University, Uji Kyoto 611-0011 Japan
| | - Miki Imanishi
- Institute for Chemical Research Kyoto University, Uji Kyoto 611-0011 Japan
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute for Chemical Research Kyoto University, Uji Kyoto 611-0011 Japan
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21
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Undruggable targets refer to clinically meaningful therapeutic targets that are 'difficult to drug' or 'yet to be drugged' via traditional approaches. Featuring characteristics of lacking defined ligand-binding pockets, non-catalytic protein-protein interaction functional modes and less-investigated 3D structures, these undruggable targets have been targeted with novel therapeutic entities developed with the progress of unconventional drug discovery approaches, such as targeted degradation molecules and display technologies. AREA COVERED This review first presents the concept of 'undruggable' exemplified by RAS and other targets. Next, detailed strategies are illustrated in two aspects: innovation of therapeutic entities and development of unconventional drug discovery technologies. Finally, case studies covering typical undruggable targets (Bcl-2, p53, and RAS) are depicted to further demonstrate the feasibility of the strategies and entities above. EXPERT OPINION Targeting the undruggable expands the scope of therapeutically reachable targets. Consequently, it represents the drug discovery frontier. Biomedical studies are capable of dissecting disease mechanisms, thus broadening the list of undruggable targets. Encouraged by the recent approval of the KRAS inhibitor Sotorasib, we believe that merging multiple discovery approaches and exploiting various novel therapeutic entities would pave the way for dealing with more 'undruggable' targets in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gong Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Yuting Gao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Yangfeng Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Yizhou Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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22
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Kim WJ, Kim GR, Cho HJ, Choi JM. The Cysteine-Containing Cell-Penetrating Peptide AP Enables Efficient Macromolecule Delivery to T Cells and Controls Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13081134. [PMID: 34452095 PMCID: PMC8401785 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
T cells are key immune cells involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases, rendering them important therapeutic targets. Although drug delivery to T cells is the subject of continuous research, it remains challenging to deliver drugs to primary T cells. Here, we used a peptide-based drug delivery system, AP, which was previously developed as a transdermal delivery peptide, to modulate T cell function. We first identified that AP-conjugated enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) was efficiently delivered to non-phagocytic human T cells. We also confirmed that a nine-amino acid sequence with one cysteine residue was the optimal sequence for protein delivery to T cells. Next, we identified the biodistribution of AP-dTomato protein in vivo after systemic administration, and transduced it to various tissues, such as the spleen, liver, intestines, and even to the brain across the blood–brain barrier. Next, to confirm AP-based T cell regulation, we synthesized the AP-conjugated cytoplasmic domain of CTLA-4, AP-ctCTLA-4 peptide. AP-ctCTLA-4 reduced IL-17A expression under Th17 differentiation conditions in vitro and ameliorated experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, with decreased numbers of pathogenic IL-17A+GM-CSF+ CD4 T cells. These results collectively suggest the AP peptide can be used for the successful intracellular regulation of T cell function, especially in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won-Ju Kim
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea; (W.-J.K.); (G.-R.K.); (H.-J.C.)
- Research Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Gil-Ran Kim
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea; (W.-J.K.); (G.-R.K.); (H.-J.C.)
- Research Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Hyun-Jung Cho
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea; (W.-J.K.); (G.-R.K.); (H.-J.C.)
- Research Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Je-Min Choi
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea; (W.-J.K.); (G.-R.K.); (H.-J.C.)
- Research Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence of Basic Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-2220-4765
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23
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Iwata T, Hirose H, Sakamoto K, Hirai Y, Arafiles JVV, Akishiba M, Imanishi M, Futaki S. Liquid Droplet Formation and Facile Cytosolic Translocation of IgG in the Presence of Attenuated Cationic Amphiphilic Lytic Peptides. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:19804-19812. [PMID: 34114295 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202105527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Fc region binding peptide conjugated with attenuated cationic amphiphilic lytic peptide L17E trimer [FcB(L17E)3 ] was designed for immunoglobulin G (IgG) delivery into cells. Particle-like liquid droplets were generated by mixing Alexa Fluor 488 labeled IgG (Alexa488-IgG) with FcB(L17E)3 . Droplet contact with the cellular membrane led to spontaneous influx and distribution of Alexa488-IgG throughout cells in serum containing medium. Involvement of cellular machinery accompanied by actin polymerization and membrane ruffling was suggested for the translocation. Alexa488-IgG negative charges were crucial in liquid droplet formation with positively charged FcB(L17E)3 . Binding of IgG to FcB(L17E)3 may not be necessary. Successful intracellular delivery of Alexa Fluor 594-labeled anti-nuclear pore complex antibody and anti-mCherry-nanobody tagged with supernegatively charged green fluorescence protein allowed binding to cellular targets in the presence of FcB(L17E)3 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Iwata
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
| | - Hisaaki Hirose
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
| | - Kentarou Sakamoto
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
| | - Yusuke Hirai
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
| | | | - Misao Akishiba
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
| | - Miki Imanishi
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
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