1
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Shirian J, Hockla A, Gleba JJ, Coban M, Rotenberg N, Strik LM, Alasonyalilar Demirer A, Pawlush ML, Copland JA, Radisky ES, Shifman JM. Improving Circulation Half-Life of Therapeutic Candidate N-TIMP2 by Unfolded Peptide Extension. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.27.600979. [PMID: 38979353 PMCID: PMC11230438 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.27.600979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are drivers of many diseases including cancer and are established targets for drug development. Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are human proteins that inhibit MMPs and are being pursued for the development of anti-MMP therapeutics. TIMPs possess many attractive properties of a drug candidate, such as complete MMP inhibition, low toxicity and immunogenicity, high tissue permeability and others. A major challenge with TIMPs, however, is their formulation and delivery, as these proteins are quickly cleared from the bloodstream due to their small size. In this study, we explore a new method for plasma half-life extension for the N-terminal domain of TIMP2 (N-TIMP2) through appending it with a long intrinsically unfolded tail containing a random combination of Pro, Ala, and Thr (PATylation). We design, produce and explore two PATylated N-TIMP2 constructs with a tail length of 100- and 200-amino acids (N-TIMP2-PAT 100 and N-TIMP2-PAT 200 , respectively). We demonstrate that both PATylated N-TIMP2 constructs possess apparent higher molecular weights compared to the wild-type protein and retain high inhibitory activity against MMP-9. Furthermore, when injected into mice, N-TIMP2-PAT 200 exhibited a significant increase in plasma half-life compared to the non-PATylated variant, enhancing the therapeutic potential of the protein. Thus, we establish that PATylation could be successfully applied to TIMP-based therapeutics and offers distinct advantages as an approach for half-life extension, such as fully genetic encoding of the gene construct, mono-dispersion, and biodegradability. Furthermore, PATylation could be easily applied to N-TIMP2 variants engineered to possess high affinity and selectivity toward individual MMP family members, thus creating attractive candidates for drug development against MMP-related diseases.
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2
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Aschenbrenner I, Böckler M, Franke F, Liebl K, Catici DAM, Brandl M, Behnke J, Feige MJ. Development of an enabling platform biotechnology for the production of proteins. Biol Chem 2024; 0:hsz-2023-0376. [PMID: 38916991 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2023-0376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Protein-based drugs are a mainstay of modern medicine. In contrast to antibodies, most of these need highly individualized production processes which often limits their development. Here, we develop an immunoglobulin domain tag (i-Tag), which can be fused to any protein of interest. This tag is made of a linear arrangement of antibody light chain constant domains. It enhances expression as well as secretion of the fusion partner and allows for simple purification of several structurally and functionally distinct fusion proteins. Furthermore, it improves the biophysical characteristics of most fusion proteins tested, is inert, and does not compromise the fusion partners' functionality. Taken together, the i-Tag should facilitate the development of biopharmaceuticals and diagnostic proteins otherwise lacking a common structural element.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Aschenbrenner
- TUM School of Natural Sciences, Department of Bioscience, Center for Functional Protein Assemblies (CPA), 9184 Technical University of Munich , D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Maximilian Böckler
- TUM School of Natural Sciences, Department of Bioscience, Center for Functional Protein Assemblies (CPA), 9184 Technical University of Munich , D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Fabian Franke
- TUM School of Natural Sciences, Department of Bioscience, Center for Functional Protein Assemblies (CPA), 9184 Technical University of Munich , D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Korbinian Liebl
- TUM School of Natural Sciences, Department of Bioscience, Center for Functional Protein Assemblies (CPA), 9184 Technical University of Munich , D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Dragana A M Catici
- TUM School of Natural Sciences, Department of Bioscience, Center for Functional Protein Assemblies (CPA), 9184 Technical University of Munich , D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Matthias Brandl
- TUM School of Natural Sciences, Department of Bioscience, Bavarian NMR Center (BNMRZ), 9184 Technical University of Munich , D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Julia Behnke
- TUM School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar München, 9184 Technical University of Munich , D-81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias J Feige
- TUM School of Natural Sciences, Department of Bioscience, Center for Functional Protein Assemblies (CPA), 9184 Technical University of Munich , D-85748 Garching, Germany
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3
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Chang YC, Gnann C, Steimbach RR, Bayer FP, Lechner S, Sakhteman A, Abele M, Zecha J, Trendel J, The M, Lundberg E, Miller AK, Kuster B. Decrypting lysine deacetylase inhibitor action and protein modifications by dose-resolved proteomics. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114272. [PMID: 38795348 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114272] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Lysine deacetylase inhibitors (KDACis) are approved drugs for cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL), peripheral T cell lymphoma (PTCL), and multiple myeloma, but many aspects of their cellular mechanism of action (MoA) and substantial toxicity are not well understood. To shed more light on how KDACis elicit cellular responses, we systematically measured dose-dependent changes in acetylation, phosphorylation, and protein expression in response to 21 clinical and pre-clinical KDACis. The resulting 862,000 dose-response curves revealed, for instance, limited cellular specificity of histone deacetylase (HDAC) 1, 2, 3, and 6 inhibitors; strong cross-talk between acetylation and phosphorylation pathways; localization of most drug-responsive acetylation sites to intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs); an underappreciated role of acetylation in protein structure; and a shift in EP300 protein abundance between the cytoplasm and the nucleus. This comprehensive dataset serves as a resource for the investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying KDACi action in cells and can be interactively explored online in ProteomicsDB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Chien Chang
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Christian Gnann
- Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Raphael R Steimbach
- Cancer Drug Development, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany; Biosciences Faculty, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Florian P Bayer
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Severin Lechner
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Amirhossein Sakhteman
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Miriam Abele
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany; Bavarian Center for Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry (BayBioMS), TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Jana Zecha
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Jakob Trendel
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Matthew The
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Emma Lundberg
- Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Aubry K Miller
- Cancer Drug Development, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Kuster
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
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4
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Glassman PM. Development of a predictive algorithm for the efficacy of half-life extension strategies. Int J Pharm 2024; 660:124382. [PMID: 38917959 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
A challenge in development of peptide and protein therapeutics is rapid elimination from the body, necessitating frequent dosing that may lead to toxicities and/or poor patient compliance. To solve this issue, there has been great investment into half-life extension of rapidly eliminated drugs using approaches such as albumin binding, fusion to albumin or Fc, or conjugation to polyethylene glycol. Despite clinical successes of half-life extension products, no clear relationship has been drawn between properties of drugs and the pharmacokinetic parameters of their half-life extended analogues. In this study, non-compartmentally derived pharmacokinetic parameters (half-life, clearance, volume of distribution) were collected for 186 half-life extended drugs and their unmodified parent molecules. Statistical testing and regression analysis was performed to evaluate relationships between pharmacokinetic parameters and a matrix of variables. Multivariate linear regression models were developed for each of the three pharmacokinetic parameters and model predictions were in good agreement with observed data with r2 values for each parameter being: half-life: 0.879, clearance: 0.820, volume of distribution: 0.937. Significant predictors for each parameter included the corresponding pharmacokinetic parameter of the parent drug and descriptors related to molecular weight. This model represents a useful tool for prediction of the potential benefits of half-life extension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M Glassman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Temple University School of Pharmacy, 3307 N. Broad Street, 559B Pharmacy and Allied Health Building, Philadelphia, PA 19140, United States.
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5
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Asano R, Takeuchi M, Nakakido M, Ito S, Aikawa C, Yokoyama T, Senoo A, Ueno G, Nagatoishi S, Tanaka Y, Nakagawa I, Tsumoto K. Characterization of a novel format scFv×VHH single-chain biparatopic antibody against metal binding protein MtsA. Protein Sci 2024; 33:e5017. [PMID: 38747382 PMCID: PMC11094767 DOI: 10.1002/pro.5017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Biparatopic antibodies (bpAbs) are engineered antibodies that bind to multiple different epitopes within the same antigens. bpAbs comprise diverse formats, including fragment-based formats, and choosing the appropriate molecular format for a desired function against a target molecule is a challenging task. Moreover, optimizing the design of constructs requires selecting appropriate antibody modalities and adjusting linker length for individual bpAbs. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the characteristics of bpAbs at the molecular level. In this study, we first obtained single-chain variable fragments and camelid heavy-chain variable domains targeting distinct epitopes of the metal binding protein MtsA and then developed a novel format single-chain bpAb connecting these fragment antibodies with various linkers. The physicochemical properties, binding activities, complex formation states with antigen, and functions of the bpAb were analyzed using multiple approaches. Notably, we found that the assembly state of the complexes was controlled by a linker and that longer linkers tended to form more compact complexes. These observations provide detailed molecular information that should be considered in the design of bpAbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risa Asano
- Department of BioengineeringSchool of Engineering, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Miyu Takeuchi
- Department of BioengineeringSchool of Engineering, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Makoto Nakakido
- Department of BioengineeringSchool of Engineering, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Department of Chemistry and BiotechnologySchool of Engineering, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Sho Ito
- Rigaku Corporation ROD Single Crystal Analysis Group Application LaboratoriesTokyoJapan
| | - Chihiro Aikawa
- Section of Applied Veterinary Sciences, Division of Veterinary Sciences, Department of Veterinary MedicineObihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary MedicineHokkaidoJapan
| | - Takeshi Yokoyama
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku UniversityMiyagiJapan
- The advanced center for innovations in next‐generation medicine (INGEM)Tohoku UniversityMiyagiJapan
| | - Akinobu Senoo
- Department of Chemistry and BiotechnologySchool of Engineering, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Go Ueno
- RIKEN SPring‐8 CenterHyogoJapan
| | - Satoru Nagatoishi
- Medical Device Development and Regulation Research CenterSchool of Engineering, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Yoshikazu Tanaka
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku UniversityMiyagiJapan
- The advanced center for innovations in next‐generation medicine (INGEM)Tohoku UniversityMiyagiJapan
| | - Ichiro Nakagawa
- Department of MicrobiologyGraduate School of Medicine, Kyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Kouhei Tsumoto
- Department of BioengineeringSchool of Engineering, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Department of Chemistry and BiotechnologySchool of Engineering, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Medical Device Development and Regulation Research CenterSchool of Engineering, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- The Institute of Medical Science, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
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6
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Zhang J, Bodenko V, Larkina M, Bezverkhniaia E, Xu T, Liao Y, Abouzayed A, Plotnikov E, Tretyakova M, Yuldasheva F, Belousov MV, Orlova A, Tolmachev V, Gräslund T, Vorobyeva A. Half-life extension via ABD-fusion leads to higher tumor uptake of an affibody-drug conjugate compared to PAS- and XTENylation. J Control Release 2024; 370:468-478. [PMID: 38697314 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.04.051] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
A critical parameter during the development of protein therapeutics is to endow them with suitable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Small protein drugs are quickly eliminated by kidney filtration, and in vivo half-life extension is therefore often desired. Here, different half-life extension technologies were studied where PAS polypeptides (PAS300, PAS600), XTEN polypeptides (XTEN288, XTEN576), and an albumin binding domain (ABD) were compared for half-life extension of an anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) affibody-drug conjugate. The results showed that extension with the PAS or XTEN polypeptides or the addition of the ABD lowered the affinity for HER2 to some extent but did not negatively affect the cytotoxic potential. The half-lives in mice ranged from 7.3 h for the construct including PAS300 to 11.6 h for the construct including PAS600. The highest absolute tumor uptake was found for the construct including the ABD, which was 60 to 160% higher than the PASylated or XTENylated constructs, even though it did not have the longest half-life (9.0 h). A comparison of the tumor-to-normal-organ ratios showed the best overall performance of the ABD-fused construct. In conclusion, PASylation, XTENylation, and the addition of an ABD are viable strategies for half-life extension of affibody-drug conjugates, with the best performance observed for the construct including the ABD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Department of Protein Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Roslagstullsbacken 21, Stockholm 114 17, Sweden
| | - Vitalina Bodenko
- Research Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia; Scientific and Educational Laboratory of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research, Siberian State Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Maria Larkina
- Research Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia; Siberian State Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Bezverkhniaia
- Research Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tianqi Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Yunqi Liao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ayman Abouzayed
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Evgenii Plotnikov
- Research Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Maria Tretyakova
- Research Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Feruza Yuldasheva
- Research Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Mikhail V Belousov
- Research Centrum for Oncotheranostics, Research School of Chemistry and Applied Biomedical Sciences, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk 634050, Russia; Siberian State Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Anna Orlova
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Vladimir Tolmachev
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Gräslund
- Department of Protein Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Roslagstullsbacken 21, Stockholm 114 17, Sweden.
| | - Anzhelika Vorobyeva
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
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7
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Curvino EJ, Woodruff ME, Roe EF, Freire Haddad H, Cordero Alvarado P, Collier JH. Supramolecular Peptide Self-Assemblies Facilitate Oral Immunization. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:3041-3056. [PMID: 38623037 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00525] [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] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Oral immunization is a promising strategy for preventing and treating gastrointestinal (GI) infections and diseases, as it allows for direct access to the disease site. To elicit immune responses within the GI tract, however, there are many obstacles that oral vaccines must surmount, including proteolytic degradation and thick mucus barriers. Here, we employed a modular self-assembling peptide nanofiber platform to facilitate oral immunization against both peptide and small molecule epitopes. Synthesizing nanofibers with d-amino acids rendered them resistant to proteases in vitro, whereas l-amino acid nanofibers were rapidly degraded. Additionally, the inclusion of peptide sequences rich in proline, alanine, and serine (PAS), increased nanofiber muco-penetration, and accelerated nanofiber transport through the GI tract. Oral immunization with PASylated nanofibers and mucosal adjuvant generated local and systemic immune responses to a peptide epitope but only for l-amino acid nanofibers. Further, we were able to apply this design to also enable oral immunization against a small molecule epitope and illustrated the therapeutic and prophylactic effectiveness of these immunizations in mouse models of colitis. These findings demonstrate that supramolecular peptide self-assemblies have promise as oral vaccines and immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Curvino
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Mia E Woodruff
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Emily F Roe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Helena Freire Haddad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Pablo Cordero Alvarado
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Joel H Collier
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
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8
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He T, Wen J, Wang W, Hu Z, Ling C, Zhao Z, Cheng Y, Chang YC, Xu M, Jin Z, Amer L, Sasi L, Fu L, Steinmetz NF, Rana TM, Wu P, Jokerst JV. Peptide-Driven Proton Sponge Nano-Assembly for Imaging and Triggering Lysosome-Regulated Immunogenic Cancer Cell Death. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2307679. [PMID: 38372431 PMCID: PMC11081816 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Triggering lysosome-regulated immunogenic cell death (ICD, e.g., pyroptosis and necroptosis) with nanomedicines is an emerging approach for turning an "immune-cold" tumor "hot"-a key challenge faced by cancer immunotherapies. Proton sponge such as high-molecular-weight branched polyethylenimine (PEI) is excellent at rupturing lysosomes, but its therapeutic application is hindered by uncontrollable toxicity due to fixed charge density and poor understanding of resulted cell death mechanism. Here, a series of proton sponge nano-assemblies (PSNAs) with self-assembly controllable surface charge density and cell cytotoxicity are created. Such PSNAs are constructed via low-molecular-weight branched PEI covalently bound to self-assembling peptides carrying tetraphenylethene pyridinium (PyTPE, an aggregation-induced emission-based luminogen). Assembly of PEI assisted by the self-assembling peptide-PyTPE leads to enhanced surface positive charges and cell cytotoxicity of PSNA. The self-assembly tendency of PSNAs is further optimized by tuning hydrophilic and hydrophobic components within the peptide, thus resulting in the PSNA with the highest fluorescence, positive surface charge density, cell uptake, and cancer cell cytotoxicity. Systematic cell death mechanistic studies reveal that the lysosome rupturing-regulated pyroptosis and necroptosis are at least two causes of cell death. Tumor cells undergoing PSNA-triggered ICD activate immune cells, suggesting the great potential of PSNAs to trigger anticancer immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tengyu He
- Program in Materials Science and Engineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jing Wen
- Division of Genetics, Program in Immunology, Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Program, Institute for Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Wenjian Wang
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Zeliang Hu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Chuxuan Ling
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Zhongchao Zhao
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Yong Cheng
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Yu-Ci Chang
- Program in Materials Science and Engineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Zhicheng Jin
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Lubna Amer
- Program in Materials Science and Engineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Lekshmi Sasi
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Lei Fu
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Nicole F Steinmetz
- Department of NanoEngineering, Department of Bioengineering, Department of Radiology, Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, Institute for Materials Discovery and Design, Moores Cancer Center, Center for Engineering in Cancer, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, Shu and K. C. Chien and Peter Farrell Collaboratory, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Tariq M Rana
- Division of Genetics, Program in Immunology, Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Program, Institute for Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Peng Wu
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Jesse V Jokerst
- Program in Materials Science and Engineering, and Department of Radiology, Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
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9
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Dinh-Fricke AV, Hantschel O. Improving the pharmacokinetics, biodistribution and plasma stability of monobodies. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:fphar.2024.1393112. [PMID: 38617793 PMCID: PMC7615827 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1393112] [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: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Several targeted anticancer drugs entered clinical practice and improved survival of cancer patients with selected tumor types, but therapy resistance and metastatic disease remains a challenge. A major class of targeted anticancer drugs are therapeutic antibodies, but their use is limited to extracellular targets. Hence, alternative binding scaffolds have been investigated for intracellular use and better tumor tissue penetration. Among those, monobodies are small synthetic protein binders that were engineered to bind with high affinity and selectivity to central intracellular oncoproteins and inhibit their signaling. Despite their use as basic research tools, the potential of monobodies as protein therapeutics remains to be explored. In particular, the pharmacological properties of monobodies, including plasma stability, toxicity and pharmacokinetics have not been investigated. Here, we show that monobodies have high plasma stability, are well-tolerated in mice, but have a short half-life in vivo due to rapid renal clearance. Therefore, we engineered monobody fusions with an albumin-binding domain (ABD), which showed enhanced pharmacological properties without affecting their target binding: We found that ABD-monobody fusions display increased stability in mouse plasma. Most importantly, ABD-monobodies have a dramatically prolonged in vivo half-life and are not rapidly excreted by renal clearance, remaining in the blood significantly longer, while not accumulating in specific internal organs. Our results demonstrate the promise and versatility of monobodies to be developed into future therapeutics for cancer treatment. We anticipate that monobodies may be able to extend the spectrum of intracellular targets, resulting in a significant benefit to patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oliver Hantschel
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Philipps-University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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10
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Li C, Li T, Tian X, An W, Wang Z, Han B, Tao H, Wang J, Wang X. Research progress on the PEGylation of therapeutic proteins and peptides (TPPs). Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1353626. [PMID: 38523641 PMCID: PMC10960368 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1353626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
With the rapid advancement of genetic and protein engineering, proteins and peptides have emerged as promising drug molecules for therapeutic applications. Consequently, there has been a growing interest in the field of chemical modification technology to address challenges associated with their clinical use, including rapid clearance from circulation, immunogenicity, physical and chemical instabilities (such as aggregation, adsorption, deamination, clipping, oxidation, etc.), and enzymatic degradation. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) modification offers an effective solution to these issues due to its favorable properties. This review presents recent progress in the development and application of PEGylated therapeutic proteins and peptides (TPPs). For this purpose, firstly, the physical and chemical properties as well as classification of PEG and its derivatives are described. Subsequently, a detailed summary is provided on the main sites of PEGylated TPPs and the factors that influence their PEGylation. Furthermore, notable instances of PEG-modified TPPs (including antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), interferon, asparaginase and antibodies) are highlighted. Finally, we propose the chemical modification of TPPs with PEG, followed by an analysis of the current development status and future prospects of PEGylated TPPs. This work provides a comprehensive literature review in this promising field while facilitating researchers in utilizing PEG polymers to modify TPPs for disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxiao Li
- Institute of Feed Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Ting Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Xinya Tian
- Institute of Feed Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Wei An
- Institute of Feed Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenlong Wang
- Institute of Feed Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Han
- Institute of Feed Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Tao
- Institute of Feed Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Jinquan Wang
- Institute of Feed Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Xiumin Wang
- Institute of Feed Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
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11
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Harris CT, Cohen S. Reducing Immunogenicity by Design: Approaches to Minimize Immunogenicity of Monoclonal Antibodies. BioDrugs 2024; 38:205-226. [PMID: 38261155 PMCID: PMC10912315 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-023-00641-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have transformed therapeutic strategies for various diseases. Their high specificity to target antigens makes them ideal therapeutic agents for certain diseases. However, a challenge to their application in clinical practice is their potential risk to induce unwanted immune response, termed immunogenicity. This challenge drives the continued efforts to deimmunize these protein therapeutics while maintaining their pharmacokinetic properties and therapeutic efficacy. Because mAbs hold a central position in therapeutic strategies against an array of diseases, the importance of conducting comprehensive immunogenicity risk assessment during the drug development process cannot be overstated. Such assessment necessitates the employment of in silico, in vitro, and in vivo strategies to evaluate the immunogenicity risk of mAbs. Understanding the intricacies of the mechanisms that drive mAb immunogenicity is crucial to improving their therapeutic efficacy and safety and developing the most effective strategies to determine and mitigate their immunogenic risk. This review highlights recent advances in immunogenicity prediction strategies, with a focus on protein engineering strategies used throughout development to reduce immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal T Harris
- Department of BioAnalytical Sciences, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080-4990, USA
| | - Sivan Cohen
- Department of BioAnalytical Sciences, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080-4990, USA.
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12
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Gaballa SA, Shimizu T, Ando H, Takata H, Emam SE, Ramadan E, Naguib YW, Mady FM, Khaled KA, Ishida T. Treatment-induced and Pre-existing Anti-peg Antibodies: Prevalence, Clinical Implications, and Future Perspectives. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:555-578. [PMID: 37931786 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a versatile polymer that is used in numerous pharmaceutical applications like the food industry, a wide range of disinfectants, cosmetics, and many commonly used household products. PEGylation is the term used to describe the covalent attachment of PEG molecules to nanocarriers, proteins and peptides, and it is used to prolong the circulation half-life of the PEGylated products. Consequently, PEGylation improves the efficacy of PEGylated therapeutics. However, after four decades of research and more than two decades of clinical applications, an unappealing side of PEGylation has emerged. PEG immunogenicity and antigenicity are remarkable challenges that confound the widespread clinical application of PEGylated therapeutics - even those under clinical trials - as anti-PEG antibodies (Abs) are commonly reported following the systemic administration of PEGylated therapeutics. Furthermore, pre-existing anti-PEG Abs have also been reported in healthy individuals who have never been treated with PEGylated therapeutics. The circulating anti-PEG Abs, both treatment-induced and pre-existing, selectively bind to PEG molecules of the administered PEGylated therapeutics inducing activation of the complement system, which results in remarkable clinical implications with varying severity. These include increased blood clearance of the administered PEGylated therapeutics through what is known as the accelerated blood clearance (ABC) phenomenon and initiation of serious adverse effects through complement activation-related pseudoallergic reactions (CARPA). Therefore, the US FDA industry guidelines have recommended the screening of anti-PEG Abs, in addition to Abs against PEGylated proteins, in the clinical trials of PEGylated protein therapeutics. In addition, strategies revoking the immunogenic response against PEGylated therapeutics without compromising their therapeutic efficacy are important for the further development of advanced PEGylated therapeutics and drug-delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherif A Gaballa
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University; 1-78-1 Sho-machi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan; Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, 61519 Minia, Egypt
| | - Taro Shimizu
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University; 1-78-1 Sho-machi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Hidenori Ando
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University; 1-78-1 Sho-machi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan; Research Center for Drug Delivery System, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University; 1-78-1 Sho-machi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Haruka Takata
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University; 1-78-1 Sho-machi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan; Research Center for Drug Delivery System, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University; 1-78-1 Sho-machi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Sherif E Emam
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519 Egypt
| | - Eslam Ramadan
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University; 1-78-1 Sho-machi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan; Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, 61519 Minia, Egypt
| | - Youssef W Naguib
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, 61519 Minia, Egypt
| | - Fatma M Mady
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, 61519 Minia, Egypt
| | - Khaled A Khaled
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, 61519 Minia, Egypt
| | - Tatsuhiro Ishida
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University; 1-78-1 Sho-machi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan; Research Center for Drug Delivery System, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University; 1-78-1 Sho-machi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan.
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13
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Slezak A, Chang K, Hossainy S, Mansurov A, Rowan SJ, Hubbell JA, Guler MO. Therapeutic synthetic and natural materials for immunoengineering. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:1789-1822. [PMID: 38170619 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00805c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Immunoengineering is a rapidly evolving field that has been driving innovations in manipulating immune system for new treatment tools and methods. The need for materials for immunoengineering applications has gained significant attention in recent years due to the growing demand for effective therapies that can target and regulate the immune system. Biologics and biomaterials are emerging as promising tools for controlling immune responses, and a wide variety of materials, including proteins, polymers, nanoparticles, and hydrogels, are being developed for this purpose. In this review article, we explore the different types of materials used in immunoengineering applications, their properties and design principles, and highlight the latest therapeutic materials advancements. Recent works in adjuvants, vaccines, immune tolerance, immunotherapy, and tissue models for immunoengineering studies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Slezak
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Kevin Chang
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Samir Hossainy
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Aslan Mansurov
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Stuart J Rowan
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Hubbell
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Mustafa O Guler
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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14
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Nikravesh FY, Gholami P, Bayat E, Talebkhan Y, Mirabzadeh E, Damough S, Aliabadi HAM, Nematollahi L, Ardakani YH. Expression, Purification, and Biological Evaluation of XTEN-GCSF in a Neutropenic Rat Model. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2024; 196:804-820. [PMID: 37209276 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-023-04522-w] [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: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) stimulates the proliferation of neutrophils but it has low serum half-life. Therefore, the present study was done to investigate the effect of XTENylation on biological activity, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of GCSF in a neutropenic rat model. XTEN tag was genetically fused to the N-terminal region of GCSF-encoding gene fragment and subcloned into pET28a expression vector. The cytoplasmic expressed recombinant protein was characterized through intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopy (IFS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and size exclusion chromatography (SEC). In vitro biological activity of the XTEN-GCSF protein was evaluated on NFS60 cell line. Hematopoietic properties and pharmacokinetics were also investigated in a neutropenic rat model. An approximately 140 kDa recombinant protein was detected on SDS-PAGE. Dynamic light scattering and size exclusion chromatography confirmed the increase in hydrodynamic diameter of GCSF molecule after XTENylation. GCSF derivatives showed efficacy in proliferation of NFS60 cell line among which the XTEN-GCSF represented the lowest EC50 value (100.6 pg/ml). Pharmacokinetic studies on neutropenic rats revealed that XTEN polymer could significantly increase protein serum half-life in comparison with the commercially available GCSF molecules. PEGylated and XTENylated GCSF proteins were more effective in stimulation of neutrophils compared to the GCSF molecule alone. XTENylation of GCSF represented promising results in in vitro and in vivo studies. This approach can be a potential alternative to PEGylation strategies for increasing serum half-life of protein.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Parisa Gholami
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Bayat
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Talebkhan
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Esmat Mirabzadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shadi Damough
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Leila Nematollahi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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15
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Sun J, Chen J, Sun Y, Hou Y, Liu Z, Lu H. On the origin of the low immunogenicity and biosafety of a neutral α-helical polypeptide as an alternative to polyethylene glycol. Bioact Mater 2024; 32:333-343. [PMID: 37927900 PMCID: PMC10622589 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.10.011] [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: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is a prominent synthetic polymer widely used in biomedicine. Despite its notable success, recent clinical evidence highlights concerns regarding the immunogenicity and adverse effects associated with PEG in PEGylated proteins and lipid nanoparticles. Previous studies have found a neutral helical polypeptide poly(γ-(2-(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy)ethyl l-glutamate), namely L-P(EG3Glu), as a potential alternative to PEG, displaying lower immunogenicity. To comprehensively assess the immunogenicity, distribution, degradation, and biosafety of L-P(EG3Glu), herein, we employ assays including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, positron emission tomography-computed tomography, and fluorescent resonance energy transfer. Our investigations involve in vivo immune responses, biodistribution, and macrophage activation of interferon (IFN) conjugates tethered with helical L-P(EG3Glu) (L20k-IFN), random-coiled DL-P(EG3Glu) (DL20k-IFN), and PEG (PEG20k-IFN). Key findings encompass: minimal anti-IFN and anti-polymer antibodies elicited by L20k-IFN; length-dependent affinity of PEG to anti-PEG antibodies; accelerated clearance of DL20k-IFN and PEG20k-IFN linked to anti-IFN and anti-polymer IgG; complement activation for DL20k-IFN and PEG20k-IFN but not L20k-IFN; differential clearance with L20k-IFN kidney-based, and DL20k-IFN/PEG20k-IFN accumulation mainly in liver/spleen; enhanced macrophage activation by DL20k-IFN and PEG20k-IFN; L-P(EG3Glu) resistance to proteolysis; and safer repeated administrations of L-P(EG3Glu) in rats. Overall, this study offers comprehensive insights into the lower immunogenicity of L-P(EG3Glu) compared to DL-P(EG3Glu) and PEG, supporting its potential clinical use in protein conjugation and nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialing Sun
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Junyi Chen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Radiochemistry and Radiation Chemistry Key Laboratory of Fundamental Science, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yiming Sun
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yingqin Hou
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Zhibo Liu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Radiochemistry and Radiation Chemistry Key Laboratory of Fundamental Science, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
- Peking University–Tsinghua University Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Hua Lu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
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16
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Garg A, González-Foutel NS, Gielnik MB, Kjaergaard M. Design of functional intrinsically disordered proteins. Protein Eng Des Sel 2024; 37:gzae004. [PMID: 38431892 DOI: 10.1093/protein/gzae004] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Many proteins do not fold into a fixed three-dimensional structure, but rather function in a highly disordered state. These intrinsically disordered proteins pose a unique challenge to protein engineering and design: How can proteins be designed de novo if not by tailoring their structure? Here, we will review the nascent field of design of intrinsically disordered proteins with focus on applications in biotechnology and medicine. The design goals should not necessarily be the same as for de novo design of folded proteins as disordered proteins have unique functional strengths and limitations. We focus on functions where intrinsically disordered proteins are uniquely suited including disordered linkers, desiccation chaperones, sensors of the chemical environment, delivery of pharmaceuticals, and constituents of biomolecular condensates. Design of functional intrinsically disordered proteins relies on a combination of computational tools and heuristics gleaned from sequence-function studies. There are few cases where intrinsically disordered proteins have made it into industrial applications. However, we argue that disordered proteins can perform many roles currently performed by organic polymers, and that these proteins might be more designable due to their modularity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankush Garg
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Maciej B Gielnik
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Magnus Kjaergaard
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
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17
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Chen H, Zhang Q. Polypeptides as alternatives to PEGylation of therapeutic agents. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:1-12. [PMID: 38116624 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2297937] [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: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Due to the concerns raised by the extensive application of PEGylation, polypeptides have stood out as excellent candidates with adequate biocompatibility and biodegradability with tunable hydrophilicity. AREAS COVERED In this review, polypeptides with the potential to replace PEGylation have been summarized and their application has been reviewed, including XTEN, PASylation, polysarcosine, zwitterion polypeptides, ELPylation, etc. Besides their strengths, the remaining challenges have also been discussed and the future perspectives have been provided. EXPERT OPINION Polypeptides have been applied in the designing of peptide/protein drugs as well as nanomedicines, and some of the pharmaceutics have made it into the clinical trials and got approved. These polypeptides showed similar hydrophilic properties to PEGylation, which increased the hydrodynamic volumes of protein drugs, reduced kidney elimination, decreased protein-polymer interaction and potentially improved the drug delivery efficiency due to the extended circulation time in the system. Moreover, they demonstrated superior biodegradability and biocompatibility, compensating for the deficiencies for polymers such as PEG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huali Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qianyu Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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18
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Gao Y, Joshi M, Zhao Z, Mitragotri S. PEGylated therapeutics in the clinic. Bioeng Transl Med 2024; 9:e10600. [PMID: 38193121 PMCID: PMC10771556 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The covalent attachment of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to therapeutic agents, termed PEGylation, is a well-established and clinically proven drug delivery approach to improve the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs. Specifically, PEGylation can improve the parent drug's solubility, extend its circulation time, and reduce its immunogenicity, with minimal undesirable properties. PEGylation technology has been applied to various therapeutic modalities including small molecules, aptamers, peptides, and proteins, leading to over 30 PEGylated drugs currently used in the clinic and many investigational PEGylated agents under clinical trials. Here, we summarize the diverse types of PEGylation strategies, the key advantages of PEGylated therapeutics over their parent drugs, and the broad applications and impacts of PEGylation in clinical settings. A particular focus has been given to the size, topology, and functionalities of PEG molecules utilized in clinically used PEGylated drugs, as well as those under clinical trials. An additional section has been dedicated to analyzing some representative PEGylated drugs that were discontinued at different stages of clinical studies. Finally, we critically discuss the current challenges faced in the development and clinical translation of PEGylated agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Gao
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard UniversityAllstonMassachusettsUSA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Present address:
Department of BioengineeringThe University of Texas at DallasRichardsonTXUSA
| | - Maithili Joshi
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard UniversityAllstonMassachusettsUSA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Zongmin Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesCollege of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Samir Mitragotri
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard UniversityAllstonMassachusettsUSA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
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Duan Y, Zhou J, Zhou Z, Zhang E, Yu Y, Krishnan N, Silva-Ayala D, Fang RH, Griffiths A, Gao W, Zhang L. Extending the In Vivo Residence Time of Macrophage Membrane-Coated Nanoparticles through Genetic Modification. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2305551. [PMID: 37635117 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202305551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Nanoparticles coated with natural cell membranes have emerged as a promising class of biomimetic nanomedicine with significant clinical potential. Among them, macrophage membrane-coated nanoparticles hold particular appeal due to their versatility in drug delivery and biological neutralization applications. This study employs a genetic engineering approach to enhance their in vivo residence times, aiming to further improve their performance. Specifically, macrophages are engineered to express proline-alanine-serine (PAS) peptide chains, which provide additional protection against opsonization and phagocytosis. The resulting modified nanoparticles demonstrate prolonged residence times when administered intravenously or introduced intratracheally, surpassing those coated with the wild-type membrane. The longer residence times also contribute to enhanced nanoparticle efficacy in inhibiting inflammatory cytokines in mouse models of lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury and sublethal endotoxemia, respectively. This study underscores the effectiveness of genetic modification in extending the in vivo residence times of macrophage membrane-coated nanoparticles. This approach can be readily extended to modify other cell membrane-coated nanoparticles toward more favorable biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaou Duan
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jiarong Zhou
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Zhidong Zhou
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Edward Zhang
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Yiyan Yu
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Nishta Krishnan
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Daniela Silva-Ayala
- Department of Microbiology and National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Ronnie H Fang
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Anthony Griffiths
- Department of Microbiology and National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Weiwei Gao
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Liangfang Zhang
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
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20
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Maejima A, Suzuki S, Makabe K, Kumagai I, Asano R. Incorporation of a repeated polypeptide sequence in therapeutic antibodies as a universal masking procedure: A case study of T cell-engaging bispecific antibodies. N Biotechnol 2023; 77:80-89. [PMID: 37467927 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2023.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Prodrug design is a promising approach for reducing the off-target effects of therapeutic antibodies, particularly bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) that recruit T cells for activation; this design uses masking sequences that inhibit antibody binding until they reach the tumor microenvironment, where they are removed. In this study, we propose PAS, a polypeptide sequence composed of repeated Pro, Ala, and Ser residues, as a universal masking sequence. PAS has no specificity, but can inhibit antibody binding through steric hindrance caused by its large fluid dynamic radius and disordered structure; additionally, its length can be adjusted. We fused PAS to the N-terminus of an anti-CD3 single-chain variable fragment (scFv) and a bsAb, that targets both the epidermal growth factor receptor and CD3, via a recognition sequence cleaved by cancer-related proteases. PAS integration inhibited anti-CD3 scFv binding with higher efficacy than the epitope sequence, and the extent of inhibition was proportional to the length of the PAS sequence. For masked bsAbs, T cell-binding ability, cancer growth inhibition effects, and T cell activation effects were also reduced depending on the length of PAS and were fully restored upon removing PAS sequences using protease. The masking procedure using PAS was successfully applied to another scFv. The provision to adjust the masking effects of PAS by tuning its length, makes PAS fusion a valuable tool for the universal design of prodrug antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Maejima
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Saori Suzuki
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Koki Makabe
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yamagata University, 4-3-16 Jonan, Yonezawa 992-8510, Japan
| | - Izumi Kumagai
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Ryutaro Asano
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan; Institute of Global Innovation Research, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-8-1, Harumi-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan.
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21
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Das G, Ptacek J, Havlinova B, Nedvedova J, Barinka C, Novakova Z. Targeting Prostate Cancer Using Bispecific T-Cell Engagers against Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:1703-1714. [PMID: 37974624 PMCID: PMC10644396 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00159] [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: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) tops the list of cancer-related deaths in men worldwide. Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is currently the most prominent PCa biomarker, as its expression levels are robustly enhanced in advanced stages of PCa. As such, PSMA targeting is highly efficient in PCa imaging as well as therapy. For the latter, PSMA-positive tumors can be targeted directly by using small molecules or macromolecules with cytotoxic payloads or indirectly by engaging the immune system of the host. Here we describe the engineering, expression, purification, and biological characterization of bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) that enable targeting PSMA-positive tumor cells by host T lymphocytes. To this end, we designed the 5D3-αCD3 BiTE as a fusion of single-chain fragments of PSMA-specific 5D3 and anti-CD3 antibodies. Detailed characterization of BiTE was performed by a combination of size-exclusion chromatography, differential scanning fluorimetry, and flow cytometry. Expressed in insect cells, BiTE was purified in monodisperse form and retained thermal stability of both functional parts and nanomolar affinity to respective antigens. 5D3-αCD3's efficiency and specificity were further evaluated in vitro using PCa-derived cell lines together with peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from human blood. Our data revealed that T-cells engaged via 5D3-αCD3 can efficiently eliminate tumor cells already at an 8 pM BiTE concentration in a highly specific manner. Overall, the data presented here demonstrate that the 5D3-αCD3 BiTE is a candidate molecule of high potential for further development of immunotherapeutic modalities for PCa treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gargi Das
- Laboratory
of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology
of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252
50 Vestec, Czech
Republic
- Department
of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles
University, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Ptacek
- Laboratory
of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology
of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252
50 Vestec, Czech
Republic
| | - Barbora Havlinova
- Laboratory
of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology
of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252
50 Vestec, Czech
Republic
| | - Jana Nedvedova
- Laboratory
of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology
of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252
50 Vestec, Czech
Republic
| | - Cyril Barinka
- Laboratory
of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology
of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252
50 Vestec, Czech
Republic
| | - Zora Novakova
- Laboratory
of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology
of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252
50 Vestec, Czech
Republic
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22
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Miranda J, Lefin N, Beltran JF, Belén LH, Tsipa A, Farias JG, Zamorano M. Enzyme Engineering Strategies for the Bioenhancement of L-Asparaginase Used as a Biopharmaceutical. BioDrugs 2023; 37:793-811. [PMID: 37698749 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-023-00622-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few years, there has been a surge in the industrial production of recombinant enzymes from microorganisms due to their catalytic characteristics being highly efficient, selective, and biocompatible. L-asparaginase (L-ASNase) is an enzyme belonging to the class of amidohydrolases that catalyzes the hydrolysis of L-asparagine into L-aspartic acid and ammonia. It has been widely investigated as a biologic agent for its antineoplastic properties in treating acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The demand for L-ASNase is mainly met by the production of recombinant type II L-ASNase from Escherichia coli and Erwinia chrysanthemi. However, the presence of immunogenic proteins in L-ASNase sourced from prokaryotes has been known to result in adverse reactions in patients undergoing treatment. As a result, efforts are being made to explore strategies that can help mitigate the immunogenicity of the drug. This review gives an overview of recent biotechnological breakthroughs in enzyme engineering techniques and technologies used to improve anti-leukemic L-ASNase, taking into account the pharmacological importance of L-ASNase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javiera Miranda
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad de la Frontera, Francisco Salazar 1145, 4811230, Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile
| | - Nicolás Lefin
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad de la Frontera, Francisco Salazar 1145, 4811230, Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile
| | - Jorge F Beltran
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad de la Frontera, Francisco Salazar 1145, 4811230, Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile
| | - Lisandra Herrera Belén
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Santiago, Chile
| | - Argyro Tsipa
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Jorge G Farias
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad de la Frontera, Francisco Salazar 1145, 4811230, Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile
| | - Mauricio Zamorano
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad de la Frontera, Francisco Salazar 1145, 4811230, Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile.
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23
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Nguyen TTK, Pham KY, Yook S. Engineered therapeutic proteins for sustained-release drug delivery systems. Acta Biomater 2023; 171:131-154. [PMID: 37717712 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Proteins play a vital role in diverse biological processes in the human body, and protein therapeutics have been applied to treat different diseases such as cancers, genetic disorders, autoimmunity, and inflammation. Protein therapeutics have demonstrated their advantages, such as specific pharmaceutical effects, low toxicity, and strong solubility. However, several disadvantages arise in clinical applications, including short half-life, immunogenicity, and low permeation, leading to reduced drug effectiveness. The structure of protein therapeutics can be modified to increase molecular size, leading to prolonged stability and increased plasma half-life. Notably, the controlled-release delivery systems for the sustained release of protein drugs and preserving the stability of cargo proteins are envisioned as a potential approach to overcome these challenges. In this review, we summarize recent research progress related to structural modifications (PEGylation, glycosylation, poly amino acid modification, and molecular biology-based strategies) and promising long-term delivery systems, such as polymer-based systems (injectable gel/implants, microparticles, nanoparticles, micro/nanogels, functional polymers), lipid-based systems (liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers), and inorganic nanoparticles exploited for protein therapeutics. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In this review, we highlight recent advances concerning modifying proteins directly to enhance their stability and functionality and discuss state-of-the-art methods for the delivery and controlled long-term release of active protein therapeutics to their target site. In terms of drug modifications, four widely used strategies, including PEGylation, poly amino acid modification, glycosylation, and genetic, are discussed. As for drug delivery systems, we emphasize recent progress relating to polymer-based systems, lipid-based systems developed, and inorganic nanoparticles for protein sustained-release delivery. This review points out the areas requiring focused research attention before the full potential of protein therapeutics for human health and disease can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thoa Thi Kim Nguyen
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Dalseo-Gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Khang-Yen Pham
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Dalseo-Gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea.
| | - Simmyung Yook
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Dalseo-Gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea; Department of Biopharmaceutical Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea.
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24
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Jerschke E, Barkovsky M, Jung N, Neuberger H, Stenzel J, Eyer F, Skerra A, Geith S. In vivo Neutralization of Colchicine Toxicity by a PASylated Anticalin in a Rat Model. Toxicology 2023; 492:153526. [PMID: 37116682 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
We have investigated the pharmacokinetics (PK) and in vivo activity of an Anticalin exhibiting picomolar affinity towards colchicine, a plant toxin with low tolerable dose in humans. PK analysis of the 20-kDa "Colchicalin" protein in male Sprague Dawley rats (n=3) revealed a very short plasma half-life (3.5min), which was prolonged 21-fold via genetic fusion with a 200-residue Pro/Ala sequence (PASylation). The scavenging activity of the PASylated Colchicalin was investigated over 3.5h via stoichiometric application following a sub-toxic i.v. dose of colchicine on anesthetized rats (n=2) leading to a rapid rise in total plasma colchicine concentration. We then established a 14-day intoxication model in rats (n=3) at a 30mg/kg p.o. colchicine dose which was characterized by severe weight loss, elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and shortened survival. Colchicalin administration at 4.2% of the neutralizing dose (125mg/kg/day daily for 12 consecutive days) resulted in faster relief of the symptoms in 2/3 of animals (n=6) compared to the control group without Colchicalin treatment (n=5). Nevertheless, 1/3 of the rats died suddenly after the first Colchicalin injection, probably due to a steep rise in the total colchicine plasma concentration, which suggests further improvement of the dosing scheme prior to potential application in acute human colchicine poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Jerschke
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, Technische Universität München, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Mikhail Barkovsky
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, Technische Universität München, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Nicole Jung
- Division of Clinical Toxicology and Poison Control Centre Munich, Department of Internal Medicine II, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Heidi Neuberger
- Division of Clinical Toxicology and Poison Control Centre Munich, Department of Internal Medicine II, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jochen Stenzel
- Division of Clinical Toxicology and Poison Control Centre Munich, Department of Internal Medicine II, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Florian Eyer
- Division of Clinical Toxicology and Poison Control Centre Munich, Department of Internal Medicine II, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Arne Skerra
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, Technische Universität München, 85354 Freising, Germany.
| | - Stefanie Geith
- Division of Clinical Toxicology and Poison Control Centre Munich, Department of Internal Medicine II, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
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25
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Ji Y, Liu D, Zhu H, Bao L, Chang R, Gao X, Yin J. Unstructured Polypeptides as a Versatile Drug Delivery Technology. Acta Biomater 2023; 164:74-93. [PMID: 37075961 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Although polyethylene glycol (PEG), or "PEGylation" has become a widely applied approach for improving the efficiency of drug delivery, the immunogenicity and non-biodegradability of this synthetic polymer have prompted an evident need for alternatives. To overcome these caveats and to mimic PEG -or other natural or synthetic polymers- for the purpose of drug half-life extension, unstructured polypeptides are designed. Due to their tunable length, biodegradability, low immunogenicity and easy production, unstructured polypeptides have the potential to replace PEG as the preferred technology for therapeutic protein/peptide delivery. This review provides an overview of the evolution of unstructured polypeptides, starting from natural polypeptides to engineered polypeptides and discusses their characteristics. Then, it is described that unstructured polypeptides have been successfully applied to numerous drugs, including peptides, proteins, antibody fragments, and nanocarriers, for half-life extension. Innovative applications of unstructured peptides as releasable masks, multimolecular adaptors and intracellular delivery carriers are also discussed. Finally, challenges and future perspectives of this promising field are briefly presented. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: : Polypeptide fusion technology simulating PEGylation has become an important topic for the development of long-circulating peptide or protein drugs without reduced activity, complex processes, and kidney injury caused by PEG modification. Here we provide a detailed and in-depth review of the recent advances in unstructured polypeptides. In addition to the application of enhanced pharmacokinetic performance, emphasis is placed on polypeptides as scaffolders for the delivery of multiple drugs, and on the preparation of reasonably designed polypeptides to manipulate the performance of proteins and peptides. This review will provide insight into future application of polypeptides in peptide or protein drug development and the design of novel functional polypeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- 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
| | - 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
| | - Lichen Bao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Nanjing Medical 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
| | - Xiangdong Gao
- 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.
| | - 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.
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26
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Morath V, Brandt C, Deuschle FC, Mendler CT, Blechert B, Summer D, Barinka C, Decristoforo C, Weber WA, Schwaiger M, Skerra A. Molecular Design of 68Ga- and 89Zr-Labeled Anticalin Radioligands for PET-Imaging of PSMA-Positive Tumors. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:2490-2501. [PMID: 37068305 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c01066] [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: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Anticalin proteins directed against the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), optionally having tailored plasma half-life using PASylation technology, show promise as radioligands for PET-imaging of xenograft tumors in mice. To investigate their suitability, the short-circulating unmodified Anticalin was labeled with 68Ga (τ1/2 = 68 min), using the NODAGA chelator, whereas the half-life extended PASylated Anticalin was labeled with 89Zr (τ1/2 = 78 h), using either the linear chelator deferoxamine (Dfo) or a cyclic derivative, fusarinine C (FsC). Different PSMA targeting Anticalin versions (optionally carrying the PASylation sequence) were produced carrying a single exposed N- or C-terminal Cys residue and site-specifically conjugated with the different radiochelators via maleimide chemistry. These protein conjugates were labeled with radioisotopes having distinct physical half-lives and, subsequently, applied for PET-imaging of subcutaneous LNCaP xenograft tumors in CB17 SCID mice. Uptake of the protein tracers into tumor versus healthy tissues was assessed by segmentation of PET data as well as biodistribution analyses. PET-imaging with both the 68Ga-labeled plain Anticalin and the 89Zr-labeled PASylated Anticalin allowed clear delineation of the xenograft tumor. The radioligand A3A5.1-PAS(200)-FsC·89Zr, having an extended plasma half-life, led to a higher tumor uptake 24 h p.i. compared to the 68Ga·NODAGA-Anticalin imaged 60 min p.i. (2.5% ID/g vs 1.2% ID/g). Pronounced demetallation was observed for the 89Zr·Dfo-labeled PASylated Anticalin, which was ∼50% lower in the case of the cyclic radiochelator FsC (p < 0.0001). Adjusting the plasma half-life of Anticalin radioligands using PASylation technology is a viable approach to increase radioisotope accumulation within the tumor. Furthermore, 89Zr-ImmunoPET-imaging using the FsC radiochelator is superior to that using Dfo. Our strategy for the half-life adjustment of a tumor-targeting Anticalin to match the physical half-life of the applied radioisotope illustrates the potential of small binding proteins as an alternative to antibodies for PET-imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Morath
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich 81675, Germany
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising 85354, Germany
| | - Corinna Brandt
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising 85354, Germany
| | - Friedrich-Christian Deuschle
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising 85354, Germany
| | - Claudia T Mendler
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich 81675, Germany
| | - Birgit Blechert
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich 81675, Germany
| | - Dominik Summer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck 6020, Austria
| | - Cyril Barinka
- Laboratory of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic
| | - Clemens Decristoforo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck 6020, Austria
| | - Wolfgang A Weber
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich 81675, Germany
| | - Markus Schwaiger
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich 81675, Germany
| | - Arne Skerra
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising 85354, Germany
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27
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Zhang Y, Sultonova RD, You SH, Choi Y, Kim SY, Lee WS, Seong J, Min JJ, Hong Y. The anticancer effect of PASylated calreticulin-targeting L-ASNase in solid tumor bearing mice with immunogenic cell death-inducing chemotherapy. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 210:115473. [PMID: 36863616 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
L-Asparaginase (L-ASNase), a bacterial enzyme that degrades asparagine, has been commonly used in combination with several chemical drugs to treat malignant hematopoietic cancers such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). In contrast, the enzyme was known to inhibit the growth of solid tumor cells in vitro, but not to be effective in vivo. We previously reported that two novel monobodies (CRT3 and CRT4) bound specifically with calreticulin (CRT) exposed on tumor cells and tissues during immunogenic cell death (ICD). Here, we engineered L-ASNases conjugated with monobodies at the N-termini and PAS200 tags at the C-termini (CRT3LP and CRT4LP). These proteins were expected to possess four monobody and PAS200 tag moieties, which did not disrupt the L-ASNase conformation. These proteins were expressed 3.8-fold more highly in E. coli than those without PASylation. The purified proteins were highly soluble, with much greater apparent molecular weights than expected ones. Their affinity (Kd) against CRT was about 2 nM, 4-fold higher than that of monobodies. Their enzyme activity (∼6.5 IU/nmol) was similar to that of L-ASNase (∼7.2 IU/nmol), and their thermal stability was significantly increased at 55 °C. Their half-life times were > 9 h in mouse sera, about 5-fold longer than that of L-ASNase (∼1.8 h). Moreover, CRT3LP and CRT4LP bound specifically with CRT exposed on tumor cells in vitro, and additively suppressed the tumor growth in CT-26 and MC-38 tumor-bearing mice treated with ICD-inducing drugs (doxorubicin and mitoxantrone) but not with a non-ICD-inducing drug (gemcitabine). All data indicated that PASylated CRT-targeted L-ASNases enhanced the anticancer efficacy of ICD-inducing chemotherapy. Taken together, L-ASNase would be a potential anticancer drug for treating solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Institute for Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Republic of Korea
| | - Rukhsora D Sultonova
- Institute for Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hwan You
- Institute for Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonjoo Choi
- Combinatorial Tumor Immunotherapy MRC, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Republic of Korea
| | - So-Young Kim
- Institute for Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan-Sik Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Republic of Korea
| | - Jihyoun Seong
- Institute for Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Republic of Korea; Department of Microbiology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Joon Min
- Institute for Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yeongjin Hong
- Institute for Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Republic of Korea; Department of Microbiology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Republic of Korea.
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28
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Rosenkranz AA, Slastnikova TA. Prospects of Using Protein Engineering for Selective Drug Delivery into a Specific Compartment of Target Cells. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030987. [PMID: 36986848 PMCID: PMC10055131 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A large number of proteins are successfully used to treat various diseases. These include natural polypeptide hormones, their synthetic analogues, antibodies, antibody mimetics, enzymes, and other drugs based on them. Many of them are demanded in clinical settings and commercially successful, mainly for cancer treatment. The targets for most of the aforementioned drugs are located at the cell surface. Meanwhile, the vast majority of therapeutic targets, which are usually regulatory macromolecules, are located inside the cell. Traditional low molecular weight drugs freely penetrate all cells, causing side effects in non-target cells. In addition, it is often difficult to elaborate a small molecule that can specifically affect protein interactions. Modern technologies make it possible to obtain proteins capable of interacting with almost any target. However, proteins, like other macromolecules, cannot, as a rule, freely penetrate into the desired cellular compartment. Recent studies allow us to design multifunctional proteins that solve these problems. This review considers the scope of application of such artificial constructs for the targeted delivery of both protein-based and traditional low molecular weight drugs, the obstacles met on the way of their transport to the specified intracellular compartment of the target cells after their systemic bloodstream administration, and the means to overcome those difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- 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
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1-12 Leninskie Gory St., 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - 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
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29
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Mahmood T, Shahbaz A, Hussain N, Ali R, Bashir H, Rizwan K. Recent advancements in fusion protein technologies in oncotherapy: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 230:123161. [PMID: 36610574 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123161] [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: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a complicated, adaptable, and heterogeneous disease caused by a wide variety of genetic changes that might impair ability of cells to function normally. The majority of the tumors can only be shrunk using conventional oncology therapies like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical resection, and the tumor often recurs. The inability of conventional cancer therapies to completely destroy the Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) that otherwise lead to therapy resistance is thus addressed by therapeutic approaches that concentrate on targeting CSCs and their micro-environmental niche. In this review, we summarize approaches that are used for the development of fusion proteins and their therapeutic applications for treating cancer. The main purpose of making advancements towards the fusion technology instead of using conventional treatment methods is to achieve a prolonged half-life of the therapeutic drugs. The fusion of drugs to the immune response enhancing cytokines or the fusion of antibody and cytokines not only increases half-life but also increase the stability of the anti-tumor drug. Several molecules including different fragments of antibodies, cytokines, Human Serum Albumin, transferrin, XTEN polymers, Elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs) can be employed as a fusion partner and the resulting fusion proteins are reported to show enhanced anti-tumor response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tehreem Mahmood
- Department of Biotechnology, Quaid-i-azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Areej Shahbaz
- Center for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Nazim Hussain
- Center for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Rahat Ali
- Department of Chemistry, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Hamid Bashir
- Center for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Komal Rizwan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Sahiwal, Sahiwal 57000, Pakistan.
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30
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Aung T, Grubbe WS, Nusbaum RJ, Mendoza JL. Recent and future perspectives on engineering interferons and other cytokines as therapeutics. Trends Biochem Sci 2023; 48:259-273. [PMID: 36241490 PMCID: PMC9974544 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2022.09.005] [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: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
As crucial mediators and regulators of our immune system, cytokines are involved in a broad range of biological processes and are implicated in various disease pathologies. The field of cytokine therapeutics has gained much momentum from the maturation of conventional protein engineering methodologies such as structure-based designs and/or directed evolution, which is further aided by the advent of in silico protein designs and characterization. Just within the past 5 years, there has been an explosion of proof-of-concept, preclinical, and clinical studies that utilize an armory of protein engineering methods to develop cytokine-based drugs. Here, we highlight the key engineering strategies undertaken by recent studies that aim to improve the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile of interferons and other cytokines as therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theint Aung
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - William S Grubbe
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Rebecca J Nusbaum
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Juan L Mendoza
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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31
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Kincaid JA, Wong MJ, Akporji N, Gallou F, Fialho DM, Lipshutz BH. Introducing Savie: A Biodegradable Surfactant Enabling Chemo- and Biocatalysis and Related Reactions in Recyclable Water. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:4266-4278. [PMID: 36753354 PMCID: PMC9951251 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c13444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Savie is a biodegradable surfactant derived from vitamin E and polysarcosine (PSar) developed for use in organic synthesis in recyclable water. This includes homogeneous catalysis (including examples employing only ppm levels of catalyst), heterogeneous catalysis, and biocatalytic transformations, including a multistep chemoenzymatic sequence. Use of Savie frequently leads to significantly higher yields than do conventional surfactants, while obviating the need for waste-generating organic solvents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph
R. A. Kincaid
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa
Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Madison J. Wong
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa
Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Nnamdi Akporji
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa
Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | | | - David M. Fialho
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa
Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Bruce H. Lipshutz
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa
Barbara, California 93106, United States
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32
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Zhu Y, Zhu Y, Cao T, Liu X, Liu X, Yan Y, Shi Y, Wang JC. Ferritin-based nanomedicine for disease treatment. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2023; 3:49-74. [PMID: 37724111 PMCID: PMC10471093 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2023-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Ferritin is an endogenous protein which is self-assembled by 24 subunits into a highly uniform nanocage structure. Due to the drug-encapsulating ability in the hollow inner cavity and abundant modification sites on the outer surface, ferritin nanocage has been demonstrated great potential to become a multi-functional nanomedicine platform. Its good biocompatibility, low toxicity and immunogenicity, intrinsic tumor-targeting ability, high stability, low cost and massive production, together make ferritin nanocage stand out from other nanocarriers. In this review, we summarized ferritin-based nanomedicine in field of disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention. The different types of drugs to be loaded in ferritin, as well as drug-loading methods were classified. The strategies for site-specific and non-specific functional modification of ferritin were investigated, then the application of ferritin for disease imaging, drug delivery and vaccine development were discussed. Finally, the challenges restricting the clinical translation of ferritin-based nanomedicines were analyzed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjun Zhu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery Systems, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuefeng Zhu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery Systems, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Tianmiao Cao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery Systems, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery Systems, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery Systems, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Yan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery Systems, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yujie Shi
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery Systems, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Cheng Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and New Drug Delivery Systems, State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Laboratory of Innovative Formulations and Pharmaceutical Excipients, Ningbo Institute of Marine Medicine, Peking University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China
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33
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Liu D, Bao L, Zhu H, Yue Y, Tian J, Gao X, Yin J. Microenvironment-responsive anti-PD-L1 × CD3 bispecific T-cell engager for solid tumor immunotherapy. J Control Release 2023; 354:606-614. [PMID: 36669532 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Bispecific T-cell Engager (BiTE) antibodies can redirect T-cells to tumor cells, and turn on the targeted lysis of tumor cells. However, BiTE has been challenging in solid tumors due to short plasma half-life, "off-target" effect, and immunosuppression via PD-1/PD-L1 axis. This study designed a safe, long-acting, and highly effective Protease-Activated PSTAGylated BiTE, named PAPB, which includes a shielding polypeptide domain (PSTAG), a protease-activated linker, and a BiTE core. The BiTE core consists of two scFvs targeting PD-L1 and CD3. BiTE core bound PD-L1 and CD3 in a dose-dependent manner, and PAPB can release BiTE core in response to MMP2 in the tumor microenvironment to exert antitumor activity. The plasma half-life of PAPB in mice was significantly prolonged from 2.46 h to 6.34 h of the BiTE core. In mice bearing melanoma (A375) xenografts, PAPB significantly increased infiltration of T lymphocytes in tumor tissue, and inhibited tumor proliferation without activating T-cells in the peripheral blood. Overall, the engineering protein PAPB could be a promising drug candidate for solid tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- 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
| | - Lichen Bao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, 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
| | - Yali Yue
- 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
| | - Jing Tian
- 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
| | - Xiangdong Gao
- 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.
| | - 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.
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34
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Heh E, Allen J, Ramirez F, Lovasz D, Fernandez L, Hogg T, Riva H, Holland N, Chacon J. Peptide Drug Conjugates and Their Role in Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010829. [PMID: 36614268 PMCID: PMC9820985 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug conjugates have become a significant focus of research in the field of targeted medicine for cancer treatments. Peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs), a subset of drug conjugates, are composed of carrier peptides ranging from 5 to 30 amino acid residues, toxic payloads, and linkers that connect the payload to the peptide. PDCs are further broken down into cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) and cell-targeting peptides (CTPs), each having their own differences in the delivery of cytotoxic payloads. Generally, PDCs as compared to other drug conjugates-like antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)-have advantages in tumor penetration, ease of synthesis and cost, and reduced off-target effects. Further, as compared to traditional cancer treatments (e.g., chemotherapy and radiation), PDCs have higher specificity for the target cancer with generally less toxic side effects in smaller doses. However, PDCs can have disadvantages such as poor stability and rapid renal clearance due to their smaller size and limited oral bioavailability due to digestion of its peptide structure. Some of these challenges can be overcome with modifications, and despite drawbacks, the intrinsic small size of PDCs with high target specificity still makes them an attractive area of research for cancer treatments.
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35
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PASylation improves pharmacokinetic of liposomes and attenuates anti-PEG IgM production: An alternative to PEGylation. NANOMEDICINE: NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2023; 47:102622. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2022.102622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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36
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Kurtzhals P, Østergaard S, Nishimura E, Kjeldsen T. Derivatization with fatty acids in peptide and protein drug discovery. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:59-80. [PMID: 36002588 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-022-00529-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Peptides and proteins are widely used to treat a range of medical conditions; however, they often have to be injected and their effects are short-lived. These shortcomings of the native structure can be addressed by molecular engineering, but this is a complex undertaking. A molecular engineering technology initially applied to insulin - and which has now been successfully applied to several biopharmaceuticals - entails the derivatization of peptides and proteins with fatty acids. Various protraction mechanisms are enabled by the specific characteristics and positions of the attached fatty acid. Furthermore, the technology can ensure a long half-life following oral administration of peptide drugs, can alter the distribution of peptides and may hold potential for tissue targeting. Due to the inherent safety and well-defined chemical nature of the fatty acids, this technology provides a versatile approach to peptide and protein drug discovery.
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37
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Najjari A, Shahbazmohammadi H, Nojoumi SA, Omidinia E. PASylated Urate Oxidase Enzyme: Enhancing Biocatalytic Activity, Physicochemical Properties, and Plasma Half-Life. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:46118-46130. [PMID: 36570261 PMCID: PMC9773812 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c04071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant urate oxidase (UOX, E.C.1.7.3.3) is an important therapeutic enzyme used in preventing and treating chemotherapy-induced hyperuricemia and severe gout. However, UOX use is limited due to the poor stability and short plasma half-life. To solve this problem, we designed three PASylated variants of Aspergillus flavus UOX with different PAS sequences at the C- or N-terminus. The genes of native and PASylated variants (UOX-PAS20, PAS24-UOX, and UOX-PAS100) were designed and produced in Escherichia coli strain BL21 (DE3). The expressed recombinant native and PASylated enzymes were compared in terms of biophysical properties, kinetics parameters, and pharmacokinetics behavior using standard methods. PASylation of UOX with PAS100 polymer caused a 1.24-fold reduction in K m to 52.61 μM, and a 3.87-fold increase in K cat/K m for uric acid compared to the native variant. UOX-PAS100 retained its activity in different temperatures (20-55 °C); however, other variants lost nearly 50% of their original activity at 55 °C. UOX-PAS100 exhibited a 1.78-fold increase in hydrodynamic radius and a 1.64-fold larger apparent molecular size in comparison to the native UOX. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy demonstrated that the addition of the PAS tag does not change the secondary structure of the fusion enzyme. The tryptophan fluorescence emission spectra for PASylated enzymes showed a significant modification in the conformational state of UOX by the PAS polymer presence. UOX-PAS100 retained 89.0% of the original activity following 72 h incubation in the presence of plasma at 37 °C. However, only about 61.0%, 57.0%, 50.0%, and 52.0% of activity from PAS24-UOX, UOX-PAS20, native UOX, and rasburicase (Fasturtec, Italy) remained, respectively, at the identical time. UOX-PAS100 had an increased biological half-life (8.21 h) when compared with the rasburicase (3.12 h) and native UOX (2.87 h) after being injected into a rat. Having considering everything, our results suggest that the UOX-PAS100, an A. flavus UOX fused with a C-terminally 100 amino acid PAS-residue, is a proper candidate with enhanced biological activity and extended plasma half-life for clinical therapy in patients suffering from hyperuricemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Najjari
- Enzyme
Technology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Genetic and Metabolism
Research Group, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
| | - Hamid Shahbazmohammadi
- Cellular
and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of
Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University
of Medical Sciences, Qazvin 15315-34199, Iran
- Emails
for H.S.: ;
| | - Seyed Ali Nojoumi
- Microbiology
Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
| | - Eskandar Omidinia
- Enzyme
Technology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Genetic and Metabolism
Research Group, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran
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38
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Goncalves AG, Hartzell EJ, Sullivan MO, Chen W. Recombinant protein polymer-antibody conjugates for applications in nanotechnology and biomedicine. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 191:114570. [PMID: 36228897 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Currently, there are over 100 antibody-based therapeutics on the market for the treatment of various diseases. The increasing importance of antibody treatment is further highlighted by the recent FDA emergency use authorization of certain antibody therapies for COVID-19 treatment. Protein-based materials have gained momentum for antibody delivery due to their biocompatibility, tunable chemistry, monodispersity, and straightforward synthesis and purification. In this review, we discuss progress in engineering the molecular features of protein-based biomaterials, in particular recombinant protein polymers, for introducing novel functionalities and enhancing the delivery properties of antibodies and related binding protein domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio G Goncalves
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, Newark, DE 19716, United States
| | - Emily J Hartzell
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, Newark, DE 19716, United States
| | - Millicent O Sullivan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, Newark, DE 19716, United States.
| | - Wilfred Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, Newark, DE 19716, United States.
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39
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Zhang Y, Zhang H, Chan DWH, Ma Y, Lu A, Yu S, Zhang B, Zhang G. Strategies for developing long-lasting therapeutic nucleic acid aptamer targeting circulating protein: The present and the future. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1048148. [PMID: 36393853 PMCID: PMC9664076 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1048148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are short, single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotide sequences that can bind specific targets. The molecular weight of aptamers (<20 kDa) is lower than the renal filtration threshold (30∼50 kDa), resulting in very short half-lives in vivo, which limit their druggability. The development of long-lasting modification approaches for aptamers can help address the druggability bottleneck of aptamers. This review summarized two distinct kinds of long-lasting modification approaches for aptamers, including macromolecular modification and low-molecular-weight modification. Though it is a current approach to extend the half-life of aptamers, the macromolecular modification approach could limit the space for the dosage increases, thus causing potential compliance concerns due to large molecular weight. As for the other modification approach, the low-molecular-weight modification approach, which uses low molecular weight coupling agents (LMWCAs) to modify aptamers, could greatly increase the proportion of aptamer moiety. However, some LMWCAs could bind to other proteins, causing a decrease in the drug amounts in blood circulation. Given these issues, the outlook for the next generation of long-lasting modification approaches was proposed at the end, including improving the administration method to increase dosage for aptamer drugs modified by macromolecule and developing Artificial intelligence (AI)-based strategies for optimization of LMWCAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihao Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huarui Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Daniel Wing Ho Chan
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuan Ma
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine and Innovative Drug Discovery, HKBU Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Aiping Lu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine and Innovative Drug Discovery, HKBU Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Sifan Yu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Baoting Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine and Innovative Drug Discovery, HKBU Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
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40
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Friedrich L, Kikuchi Y, Matsuda Y, Binder U, Skerra A. Efficient secretory production of proline/alanine/serine (PAS) biopolymers in Corynebacterium glutamicum yielding a monodisperse biological alternative to polyethylene glycol (PEG). Microb Cell Fact 2022; 21:227. [PMID: 36307781 PMCID: PMC9616612 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-022-01948-5] [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: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background PAS biopolymers are recombinant polypeptides comprising the small uncharged l-amino acids Pro, Ala and/or Ser which resemble the widely used poly-ethylene glycol (PEG) in terms of pronounced hydrophilicity. Likewise, their random chain behaviour in physiological solution results in a strongly expanded hydrodynamic volume. Thus, apart from their use as fusion partner for biopharmaceuticals to achieve prolonged half-life in vivo, PAS biopolymers appear attractive as substitute for PEG—or other poorly degradable chemical polymers—in many areas. As a prerequisite for the wide application of PAS biopolymers at affordable cost, we have established their highly efficient biotechnological production in Corynebacterium glutamicum serving as a well characterized bacterial host organism. Results Using the CspA signal sequence, we have secreted two representative PAS biopolymers as polypeptides with ~ 600 and ~ 1200 amino acid residues, respectively. Both PAS biopolymers were purified from the culture supernatant by means of a simple downstream process in a truly monodisperse state as evidenced by ESI–MS. Yields after purification were up to ≥ 4 g per liter culture, with potential for further increase by strain optimization as well as fermentation and bioprocess development. Beyond direct application as hydrocolloids or to exploit their rheological properties, such PAS biopolymers are suitable for site-specific chemical conjugation with pharmacologically active molecules via their unique terminal amino or carboxyl groups. To enable the specific activation of the carboxylate, without interference by the free amino group, we generated a blocked N-terminus for the PAS(1200) polypeptide simply by introducing an N-terminal Gln residue which, after processing of the signal peptide, was cyclised to a chemically inert pyroglutamyl group upon acid treatment. The fact that PAS biopolymers are genetically encoded offers further conjugation strategies via incorporation of amino acids with reactive side chains (e.g., Cys, Lys, Glu/Asp) at defined positions. Conclusions Our new PAS expression platform using Corynex® technology opens the way to applications of PASylation® technology in multiple areas such as the pharmaceutical industry, cosmetics and food technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Friedrich
- XL-protein GmbH, Lise-Meitner-Strasse 30, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Y Kikuchi
- Research Institute for Bioscience Products & Fine Chemicals, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., 1-1 Suzuki-cho, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, 210-8681, Japan
| | - Y Matsuda
- Research Institute for Bioscience Products & Fine Chemicals, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., 1-1 Suzuki-cho, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, 210-8681, Japan
| | - U Binder
- XL-protein GmbH, Lise-Meitner-Strasse 30, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - A Skerra
- XL-protein GmbH, Lise-Meitner-Strasse 30, 85354, Freising, Germany. .,Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, Technische Universität München, Emil-Erlenmeyer-Forum 5, 85354, Freising, Germany.
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41
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Kraft JC, Pham MN, Shehata L, Brinkkemper M, Boyoglu-Barnum S, Sprouse KR, Walls AC, Cheng S, Murphy M, Pettie D, Ahlrichs M, Sydeman C, Johnson M, Blackstone A, Ellis D, Ravichandran R, Fiala B, Wrenn S, Miranda M, Sliepen K, Brouwer PJM, Antanasijevic A, Veesler D, Ward AB, Kanekiyo M, Pepper M, Sanders RW, King NP. Antigen- and scaffold-specific antibody responses to protein nanoparticle immunogens. Cell Rep Med 2022; 3:100780. [PMID: 36206752 PMCID: PMC9589121 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Protein nanoparticle scaffolds are increasingly used in next-generation vaccine designs, and several have established records of clinical safety and efficacy. Yet the rules for how immune responses specific to nanoparticle scaffolds affect the immunogenicity of displayed antigens have not been established. Here we define relationships between anti-scaffold and antigen-specific antibody responses elicited by protein nanoparticle immunogens. We report that dampening anti-scaffold responses by physical masking does not enhance antigen-specific antibody responses. In a series of immunogens that all use the same nanoparticle scaffold but display four different antigens, only HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) is subdominant to the scaffold. However, we also demonstrate that scaffold-specific antibody responses can competitively inhibit antigen-specific responses when the scaffold is provided in excess. Overall, our results suggest that anti-scaffold antibody responses are unlikely to suppress antigen-specific antibody responses for protein nanoparticle immunogens in which the antigen is immunodominant over the scaffold.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Kraft
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Minh N Pham
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Laila Shehata
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Mitch Brinkkemper
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Seyhan Boyoglu-Barnum
- Vaccine Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kaitlin R Sprouse
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Alexandra C Walls
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Suna Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Mike Murphy
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Deleah Pettie
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Maggie Ahlrichs
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Claire Sydeman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Max Johnson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Alyssa Blackstone
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Daniel Ellis
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Rashmi Ravichandran
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Brooke Fiala
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Samuel Wrenn
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Marcos Miranda
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Kwinten Sliepen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Philip J M Brouwer
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Aleksandar Antanasijevic
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - David Veesler
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Andrew B Ward
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Masaru Kanekiyo
- Vaccine Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Marion Pepper
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Rogier W Sanders
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Neil P King
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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Abstract
The lack of a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cure has heightened interest in immunotherapy. As such, type I interferons (IFNs), in particular, IFN alpha (IFN-α), have gained renewed attention. However, HIV pathogenesis is driven by sustained IFN-mediated immune activation, and the use of IFNs is rather controversial. The following questions therein remain: (i) which IFN-α subtype to use, (ii) at which regimen, and (iii) at what time point in HIV infection it might be beneficial. Here, we used IFN-α14 modified by PASylation for its long half-life in vivo to eventually treat HIV infection. We defined the IFN dosing regimen based on the maximum increase in interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) expression 6 h after its administration and a return to baseline of ubiquitin-specific protease 18 (USP18) prior to the next dose. Notably, USP18 is the major negative regulator of type I IFN signaling. HIV infection resulted in increased ISG expression levels in humanized mice. Intriguingly, high baseline ISG levels correlated with lower HIV load. No effect was observed on HIV replication when PASylated IFN-α14 was administered in the chronic phase. However, combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) restored responsiveness to IFN, and PASylated IFN-α14 administered during analytical cART interruption resulted in a transiently lower HIV burden than in the mock-treated mice. In conclusion, cART-mediated HIV suppression restored transient IFN responsiveness and provided a potential window for immunoenhancing therapies in the context of analytical cART interruption. IMPORTANCE cART is highly efficient in suppressing HIV replication in HIV-infected patients and has resulted in a dramatic reduction in morbidity and mortality in HIV-infected people, yet it does not cure HIV infection. In addition, cART has several disadvantages. Thus, the HIV research community is exploring novel ways to control HIV infection for longer periods without cART. Here, we explored novel, long-acting IFN-α14 for its efficacy to control HIV replication in HIV-infected humanized mice. We found that IFN-α14 had no effect on chronic HIV infection. However, when mice were treated first with cART, we observed a transiently restored responsiveness to INF and a transiently lower HIV burden after stopping cART. These data emphasize (i) the value of cART-mediated HIV suppression and immune reconstitution in creating a window of opportunity for exploring novel immunotherapies, (ii) the potential of IFNs for constraining HIV, and (iii) the value of humanized mice for exploring novel immunotherapies.
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Abesekara MS, Chau Y. Recent advances in surface modification of micro- and nano-scale biomaterials with biological membranes and biomolecules. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:972790. [PMID: 36312538 PMCID: PMC9597319 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.972790] [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: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Surface modification of biomaterial can improve its biocompatibility and add new biofunctions, such as targeting specific tissues, communication with cells, and modulation of intracellular trafficking. Here, we summarize the use of various natural materials, namely, cell membrane, exosomes, proteins, peptides, lipids, fatty acids, and polysaccharides as coating materials on micron- and nano-sized particles and droplets with the functions imparted by coating with different materials. We discuss the applicability, operational parameters, and limitation of different coating techniques, from the more conventional approaches such as extrusion and sonication to the latest innovation seen on the microfluidics platform. Methods commonly used in the field to examine the coating, including its composition, physical dimension, stability, fluidity, permeability, and biological functions, are reviewed.
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44
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Jenkins C, Hwang JH, Kopp JB, Winkler CA, Cho SK. Review of Urate-Lowering Therapeutics: From the Past to the Future. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:925219. [PMID: 36081938 PMCID: PMC9445164 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.925219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We reviewed all currently available ULT, as well as any medications in development using following databases: United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), Japanese Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), and ClinicalTrials.gov. We identified a total of 36 drugs, including 10 approved drugs, 17 in clinical testing phases, and 9 in preclinical developmental phases. The 26 drugs currently undergoing testing and development include 5 xanthine oxidase inhibitors, 14 uricosurics, 6 recombinant uricases, and one with multiple urate-lowering mechanisms of action. Herein, we reviewed the benefit and risk of each drug summarizing currently available drugs. New trials of uricosuric agents are underway to develop the new indication. New drugs are going on to improve the potency of recombinant uricase and to develop the new route administration of such as oral formulation. This review will provide valuable information on the properties, indications, and limitations of ULTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Jenkins
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Hospital of Central Connecticut, New Britain, CT, United States
| | - Jennifer H. Hwang
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Hospital of Central Connecticut, New Britain, CT, United States
| | - Jeffrey B. Kopp
- Kidney Disease Section, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Cheryl A. Winkler
- Basic Research Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Leidos Biomedical Research, Frederick National Laboratory, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Sung Kweon Cho
- Basic Research Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Leidos Biomedical Research, Frederick National Laboratory, Frederick, MD, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Sung Kweon Cho,
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45
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Van Trimpont M, Schalk AM, De Visser Y, Nguyen HA, Reunes L, Vandemeulebroecke K, Peeters E, Su Y, Lee H, Lorenzi PL, Chan WK, Mondelaers V, De Moerloose B, Lammens T, Goossens S, Van Vlierberghe P, Lavie A. In vivo stabilization of a less toxic asparaginase variant leads to a durable antitumor response in acute leukemia. Haematologica 2022; 108:409-419. [PMID: 35979719 PMCID: PMC9890011 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2022.281390] [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: 05/11/2002] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Asparagine is a non-essential amino acid since it can either be taken up via the diet or synthesized by asparagine synthetase. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells do not express asparagine synthetase or express it only minimally, which makes them completely dependent on extracellular asparagine for their growth and survival. This dependency makes ALL cells vulnerable to treatment with L-asparaginase, an enzyme that hydrolyzes asparagine. To date, all clinically approved L-asparaginases have significant L-glutaminase co-activity, associated with non-immune related toxic side effects observed during therapy. Therefore, reduction of L-glutaminase co-activity with concomitant maintenance of its anticancer L-asparaginase effect may effectively improve the tolerability of this unique drug. Previously, we designed a new alternative variant of Erwinia chrysanthemi (ErA; Erwinaze) with decreased L-glutaminase co-activity, while maintaining its L-asparaginase activity, by the introduction of three key mutations around the active site (ErA-TM). However, Erwinaze and our ErA-TM variant have very short half-lives in vivo. Here, we show that the fusion of ErA-TM with an albumin binding domain (ABD)-tag significantly increases its in vivo persistence. In addition, we evaluated the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of ABD-ErA-TM in a B-ALL xenograft model of SUP-B15. Our results show a comparable long-lasting durable antileukemic effect between the standard-of-care pegylated-asparaginase and ABD-ErA-TM L-asparaginase, but with fewer co-glutaminase-related acute side effects. Since the toxic side effects of current L-asparaginases often result in treatment discontinuation in ALL patients, this novel ErA-TM variant with ultra-low L-glutaminase co-activity and long in vivo persistence may have great clinical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike Van Trimpont
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Amanda M. Schalk
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yanti De Visser
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hien Anh Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lindy Reunes
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Vandemeulebroecke
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Evelien Peeters
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ying Su
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hyun Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), Chicago, IL, USA,Biophysics Core at Research Resources Center, University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Philip L. Lorenzi
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wai-Kin Chan
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Veerle Mondelaers
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Barbara De Moerloose
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tim Lammens
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Goossens
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Van Vlierberghe
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium,#PVV and AL contributed equally as co-senior authors
| | - Arnon Lavie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA; The Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL.
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Biomaterial-Mediated Protein Expression Induced by Peptide-mRNA Nanoparticles Embedded in Lyophilized Collagen Scaffolds. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14081619. [PMID: 36015245 PMCID: PMC9414905 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14081619] [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: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In our aging society, the number of patients suffering from poorly healing bone defects increases. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are used in the clinic to promote bone regeneration. However, poor control of BMP delivery and thus activity necessitates high doses, resulting in adverse effects and increased costs. It has been demonstrated that messenger RNA (mRNA) provides a superior alternative to protein delivery due to local uptake and prolonged expression restricted to the site of action. Here, we present the development of porous collagen scaffolds incorporating peptide-mRNA nanoparticles (NPs). Nanoparticles were generated by simply mixing aqueous solutions of the cationic cell-penetrating peptide PepFect14 (PF14) and mRNA. Peptide-mRNA complexes were uniformly distributed throughout the scaffolds, and matrices fully preserved cell attachment and viability. There was a clear dependence of protein expression on the incorporated amount of mRNA. Importantly, after lyophilization, the mRNA formulation in the collagen scaffolds retained activity also at 4 °C over two weeks. Overall, our results demonstrate that collagen scaffolds incorporating peptide-mRNA complexes hold promise as off-the-shelf functional biomaterials for applications in regenerative medicine and constitute a viable alternative to lipid-based mRNA formulations.
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47
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McMullen P, Fang L, Qiao Q, Shao Q, Jiang S. Impacts of a Zwitterionic Peptide on its Fusion Protein. Bioconjug Chem 2022; 33:1485-1493. [PMID: 35852436 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.2c00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic proteins frequently need to be modified with high-molecular-weight molecules to improve their pharmacokinetic properties. The genetic linkage of therapeutic proteins to a high-molecular-weight zwitterionic peptide, termed EKP, offers a promising approach. As with any protein modification, EKP could impact the structural behavior and receptor binding properties of the linked therapeutic protein, thereby altering its bioactivity. To evaluate the effects of EKP on therapeutic proteins, we study the receptor binding properties of high-molecular-weight EKP linked to the growth colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) using the genetically based yeast display platform. We find that yeast-displayed EKP-GCSF and GCSF exhibits similar binding to its receptor GCSF-R, suggesting that EKP does not hinder receptor binding. Furthermore, yeast-displayed EKP-GCSF demonstrates protection against thermal denaturation compared to GCSF. Similarly, to study the structural effects of EKP on GCSF, we employ in silico modeling using alphaFold2 in conjunction with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Likewise, in silico modeling reveals that EKP does not alter the structural behavior of GCSF. Finally, we demonstrate the functional benefits of EKP, by which the EKP-GCSF fusion protein produced in Escherichia coli exhibits improved pharmacokinetics and prolonged bioactivity in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick McMullen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Liang Fang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Qi Qiao
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506, United States
| | - Qing Shao
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506, United States
| | - Shaoyi Jiang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
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48
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Hall DB, Vakkasoglu AS, Hales LM, Soliman TM. D-VITylation: Harnessing the biology of vitamin D to improve the pharmacokinetic properties of peptides and small proteins. Int J Pharm 2022; 624:122031. [PMID: 35863594 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Peptides have great potential to be potent and specific therapeutics, yet their small size leads to rapid glomerular filtration, which severely limits therapeutic applications. Although conjugation of small proteins to large polymers typically results in longer residence times, these conjugates often have a significant loss of biological activity due to steric hindrance. Here, we improve the pharmacokinetics (PK) of peptide therapeutics by harnessing the biology of vitamin D. Attachment of a small vitamin D-based molecule (D-VITylation) protects the conjugated peptide or protein from renal clearance by virtue of reversible binding to the serum-circulating vitamin D binding protein (DBP), without compromising bioactivity. Varying the conjugation site on vitamin D affects the binding to DBP, with higher affinity corresponding to a longer plasma half-life. We also demonstrate the important contribution of the peptide to the overall PK, likely due to alternative clearance mechanisms such as protease degradation and receptor-mediated cellular uptake. With a Fab antibody fragment, for which these alternate clearance mechanisms are not significant, D-VITylation increases the half-life of elimination from 14 to 61 h in rats. The PK profile in minipigs and projected lifetime in humans suggest that D-VITylation is a viable strategy to achieve once-weekly dosing of peptide therapeutics in humans.
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49
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Schilz J, Clement C, Greiner F, Skerra A. Direct Affinity Purification of Long‐Acting PASylated Proteins with Therapeutic Potential Using L‐Prolinamide for Mild Elution. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202200079. [PMID: 35325504 PMCID: PMC9320812 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202200079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Schilz
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie Technische Universität München Emil-Erlenmeyer-Forum 5 85354 Freising (Weihenstephan) Germany
| | - Charlotte Clement
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie Technische Universität München Emil-Erlenmeyer-Forum 5 85354 Freising (Weihenstephan) Germany
| | - Franziska Greiner
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie Technische Universität München Emil-Erlenmeyer-Forum 5 85354 Freising (Weihenstephan) Germany
| | - Arne Skerra
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie Technische Universität München Emil-Erlenmeyer-Forum 5 85354 Freising (Weihenstephan) Germany
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50
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Morimoto E, Tsuboyama K, Tomari Y. Fusion with heat-resistant obscure (Hero) proteins have the potential to improve the molecular property of recombinant proteins. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270097. [PMID: 35714106 PMCID: PMC9205492 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Although recombinant proteins are widely used in biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, improving their solubility and stability is often a challenging issue. We recently discovered a class of highly unstructured heat-resistant obscure (Hero) proteins, which function to protect other “client” proteins in trans from various stresses in vitro and in vivo. Here, we show that fusion of Hero proteins in cis can enhance the molecular property of recombinant proteins. Fusion with Hero11 improved the otherwise challenging production of TAR DNA-binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43) in Escherichia coli. Moreover, fusing with Hero9 strongly protected the activity of firefly luciferase bearing destabilizing mutations against heat and other stress conditions. These data suggest that Hero proteins have the potential to be used as versatile stabilization tags for recombinant protein production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eri Morimoto
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Laboratory of RNA Function, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kotaro Tsuboyama
- Laboratory of RNA Function, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Yukihide Tomari
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Laboratory of RNA Function, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail:
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