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Nappi F. Non-Coding RNA-Targeted Therapy: A State-of-the-Art Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3630. [PMID: 38612441 PMCID: PMC11011542 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073630] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) as drug targets is being researched due to their discovery and their role in disease. Targeting ncRNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), is an attractive approach for treating various diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. This seminar discusses the current status of ncRNAs as therapeutic targets in different pathological conditions. Regarding miRNA-based drugs, this approach has made significant progress in preclinical and clinical testing for cardiovascular diseases, where the limitations of conventional pharmacotherapy are evident. The challenges of miRNA-based drugs, including specificity, delivery, and tolerability, will be discussed. New approaches to improve their success will be explored. Furthermore, it extensively discusses the potential development of targeted therapies for cardiovascular disease. Finally, this document reports on the recent advances in identifying and characterizing microRNAs, manipulating them, and translating them into clinical applications. It also addresses the challenges and perspectives towards clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Nappi
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Centre Cardiologique du Nord, 93200 Saint-Denis, France
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2
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Äärelä A, Räsänen K, Holm P, Salo H, Virta P. Synthesis of Site-Specific Antibody-[60]Fullerene-Oligonucleotide Conjugates for Cellular Targeting. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:3189-3198. [PMID: 37432881 PMCID: PMC10445261 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
An ideal therapeutic antibody-oligonucleotide conjugate (AOC) would be a uniform construct, contain a maximal oligonucleotide (ON) payload, and retain the antibody (Ab)-mediated binding properties, which leads to an efficient delivery of the ON cargo to the site of therapeutic action. Herein, [60]fullerene-based molecular spherical nucleic acids (MSNAs) have been site-specifically conjugated to antibodies (Abs), and the Ab-mediated cellular targeting of the MSNA-Ab conjugates has been studied. A well-established glycan engineering technology and robust orthogonal click chemistries yielded the desired uniform MSNA-Ab conjugates (MW ∼ 270 kDa), with an oligonucleotide (ON):Ab ratio of 24:1, in 20-26% isolated yields. These AOCs retained the antigen binding properties (Trastuzumab's binding to human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, HER2), studied by biolayer interferometry. In addition, Ab-mediated endocytosis was demonstrated with live-cell fluorescence and phase-contrast microscopy on BT-474 breast carcinoma cells, overexpressing HER2. The effect on cell proliferation was analyzed by label-free live-cell time-lapse imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antti Äärelä
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Turku, FI-20500 Turku, Finland
- Research
and Development, Orion Pharma, FI-20380 Turku, Finland
| | - Kati Räsänen
- Research
and Development, Orion Pharma, FI-20380 Turku, Finland
| | - Patrik Holm
- Research
and Development, Orion Pharma, FI-20380 Turku, Finland
| | - Harri Salo
- Research
and Development, Orion Pharma, FI-20380 Turku, Finland
| | - Pasi Virta
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Turku, FI-20500 Turku, Finland
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3
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Seyednejad SA, Sartor GC. Noncoding RNA therapeutics for substance use disorder. ADVANCES IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL RESEARCH 2022; 2:10807. [PMID: 36601439 PMCID: PMC9808746 DOI: 10.3389/adar.2022.10807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Although noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been shown to regulate maladaptive neuroadaptations that drive compulsive drug use, ncRNA-targeting therapeutics for substance use disorder (SUD) have yet to be clinically tested. Recent advances in RNA-based drugs have improved many therapeutic issues related to immune response, specificity, and delivery, leading to multiple successful clinical trials for other diseases. As the need for safe and effective treatments for SUD continues to grow, novel nucleic acid-based therapeutics represent an appealing approach to target ncRNA mechanisms in SUD. Here, we review ncRNA processes implicated in SUD, discuss recent therapeutic approaches for targeting ncRNAs, and highlight potential opportunities and challenges of ncRNA-targeting therapeutics for SUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Afshin Seyednejad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences (CT IBACS), Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Gregory C. Sartor
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences (CT IBACS), Storrs, CT, United States
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4
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Abstract
Gene therapy has started in the late 1980s as novel, clinically applicable therapeutic option. It revolutionized the treatment of genetic diseases with the initial intent to repair or replace defective genes. Gene therapy has been adapted for treatment of malignant diseases to improve the outcome of cancer patients. In fact, cancer gene therapy has rapidly gained great interest and evolved into a research field with highest proportion of research activities in gene therapy. In this context, cancer gene therapy has long entered translation into clinical trials and therefore more than two-thirds of all gene therapy trials worldwide are aiming at the treatment of cancer disease using different therapeutic strategies. During the decades in cancer gene therapy, tremendous knowledge has accumulated. This led to significant improvements in vector design, transgene repertoire, more targeted interventions, use of novel gene therapeutic technologies such as CRISPR/Cas, sleeping beauty vectors, and development of effective cancer immunogene therapies. In this chapter, a brief overview of current key developments in cancer gene therapy is provided to gain insights into the recent directions in research as well as in clinical application of cancer gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Kobelt
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Deutsches Krebsforschungzentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jessica Pahle
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Walther
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany.
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Deutsches Krebsforschungzentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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5
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Winkle M, El-Daly SM, Fabbri M, Calin GA. Noncoding RNA therapeutics - challenges and potential solutions. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2021; 20:629-651. [PMID: 34145432 PMCID: PMC8212082 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-021-00219-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 750] [Impact Index Per Article: 250.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic targeting of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), represents an attractive approach for the treatment of cancers, as well as many other diseases. Over the past decade, substantial effort has been made towards the clinical application of RNA-based therapeutics, employing mostly antisense oligonucleotides and small interfering RNAs, with several gaining FDA approval. However, trial results have so far been ambivalent, with some studies reporting potent effects whereas others demonstrated limited efficacy or toxicity. Alternative entities such as antimiRNAs are undergoing clinical testing, and lncRNA-based therapeutics are gaining interest. In this Perspective, we discuss key challenges facing ncRNA therapeutics - including issues associated with specificity, delivery and tolerability - and focus on promising emerging approaches that aim to boost their success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Winkle
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Texas State University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sherien M El-Daly
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Medical Research Division - Cancer Biology and Genetics Laboratory, Centre of Excellence for Advanced Sciences - National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Muller Fabbri
- Cancer Biology Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - George A Calin
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Texas State University, Houston, TX, USA.
- The RNA Interference and Non-codingRNA Center, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Texas State University, Houston, TX, USA.
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6
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Soliman L, De Souza A, Srinivasan P, Danish M, Bertone P, El-Deiry WS, Carneiro BA. The Role of BCL-2 Proteins in the Development of Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies. Am J Clin Oncol 2021; 44:374-382. [PMID: 34014842 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000000829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The development of androgen resistance in advanced prostate cancer remains a challenging clinical problem. Because androgen deprivation therapy constitutes the backbone of first-line treatments for metastatic prostate cancer, the phenotypic switch from an androgen-dependent to an androgen-independent growth state limits the treatment options for these patients. This critical change from an androgen-dependent to an androgen-independent growth state can be regulated by the B-cell lymphoma gene 2 (BCL-2) family of apoptotic proteins. While the roles of BCL-2 protein family members in the carcinogenesis of prostate cancer have been well-studied, emerging data also delineates their modulation of disease progression to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Over the past 2 decades, investigators have sought to describe the mechanisms that underpin this development at the molecular level, yet no recent literature has consolidated these findings in a dedicated review. As new classes of BCL-2 family inhibitors are finding indications for other cancer types, it is time to evaluate how such agents might find stable footing for the treatment of CRPC. Several trials to date have investigated BCL-2 inhibitors as therapeutic agents for CRPC. These therapies include selective BCL-2 inhibitors, pan-BCL-2 inhibitors, and novel inhibitors of MCL-1 and BCL-XL. This review details the research regarding the role of BCL-2 family members in the pathogenesis of prostate cancer and contextualizes these findings within the contemporary landscape of prostate cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Soliman
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
| | - Andre De Souza
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Lifespan Cancer Institute
- Cancer Center at Brown University
| | | | - Matthew Danish
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Lifespan Cancer Institute
| | - Paul Bertone
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Lifespan Cancer Institute
- Cancer Center at Brown University
| | - Wafik S El-Deiry
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Lifespan Cancer Institute
- Cancer Center at Brown University
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Benedito A Carneiro
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Lifespan Cancer Institute
- Cancer Center at Brown University
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7
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Najbauer EE, Becker S, Giller K, Zweckstetter M, Lange A, Steinem C, de Groot BL, Griesinger C, Andreas LB. Structure, gating and interactions of the voltage-dependent anion channel. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2021; 50:159-172. [PMID: 33782728 PMCID: PMC8071794 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-021-01515-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) is one of the most highly abundant proteins found in the outer mitochondrial membrane, and was one of the earliest discovered. Here we review progress in understanding VDAC function with a focus on its structure, discussing various models proposed for voltage gating as well as potential drug targets to modulate the channel's function. In addition, we explore the sensitivity of VDAC structure to variations in the membrane environment, comparing DMPC-only, DMPC with cholesterol, and near-native lipid compositions, and use magic-angle spinning NMR spectroscopy to locate cholesterol on the outside of the β-barrel. We find that the VDAC protein structure remains unchanged in different membrane compositions, including conditions with cholesterol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter E Najbauer
- Department of NMR-Based Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Stefan Becker
- Department of NMR-Based Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Karin Giller
- Department of NMR-Based Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Markus Zweckstetter
- Department of NMR-Based Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
- Senior Research Group of Translational Structural Biology in Dementia, Deutsches Zentrum Für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Von-Siebold-Str. 3a, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, University of Göttingen, Waldweg 33, 37073, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Adam Lange
- Department of Molecular Biophysics, Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut Für Molekulare Pharmakologie, 13125, Berlin, Germany
- Institut Für Biologie, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, 10115, Berlin, Germany
| | - Claudia Steinem
- Institute of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Max-Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Bert L de Groot
- Department of Theoretical and Computational Biophysics, Max-Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christian Griesinger
- Department of NMR-Based Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Loren B Andreas
- Department of NMR-Based Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany.
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8
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Abstract
Significance: Mitochondria undergo constant morphological changes through fusion, fission, and mitophagy. As the key organelle in cells, mitochondria are responsible for numerous essential cellular functions such as metabolism, regulation of calcium (Ca2+), generation of reactive oxygen species, and initiation of apoptosis. Unsurprisingly, mitochondrial dysfunctions underlie many pathologies including cancer. Recent Advances: Currently, the gold standard for cancer treatment is chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, the efficacy of these treatments varies across different cancer cells. It has been suggested that mitochondria may be at the center of these diverse responses. In the past decade, significant advances have been made in understanding distinct types of mitochondrial dysfunctions in cancer. Through investigations of underlying mechanisms, more effective treatment options are developed. Critical Issues: We summarize various mitochondria dysfunctions in cancer progression that have led to the development of therapeutic options. Current mitochondrial-targeted therapies and challenges are discussed. Future Directions: To address the "root" of cancer, utilization of mitochondrial-targeted therapy to target cancer stem cells may be valuable. Investigation of other areas such as mitochondrial trafficking may offer new insights into cancer therapy. Moreover, common antibiotics could be explored as mitocans, and synthetic lethality screens can be utilized to overcome the plasticity of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin Yao Chiu
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Emmy Xue Yun Tay
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Derrick Sek Tong Ong
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Reshma Taneja
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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9
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Cheng X, Li D, Sun M, He L, Zheng Y, Wang X, Tang R. Co-delivery of DOX and PDTC by pH-sensitive nanoparticles to overcome multidrug resistance in breast cancer. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2019; 181:185-197. [PMID: 31132609 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2019.05.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapeutic drugs have a series of limitations in the conventional clinical treatments, mainly including serious adverse effects and multidrug resistance (MDR). Herein, we developed a pH-sensitive polymeric nanoparticle with using poly(ortho ester urethanes) copolymers for co-delivering doxorubicin (DOX) and pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (PDTC) to settle these problems. Dual-drug-loaded nanoparticles were nano-sized (˜220 nm) with the spherical morphology and excellent physiological stability. Both drugs both could be quickly released in the mild acidic conditions due to the cleavage of ortho ester bonds. Monolayer cultured cells (2D) and multicellular spheroids (3D) experiments proved that PDTC could reverse multidrug resistance (MDR), improve intracellular drugs accumulation and enhance tumor penetration by down-regulating the expression of P-gp, then resulting in higher DOX-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis in MCF-7 and MCF-7/ADR cells. Besides, in vivo experiments further demonstrated that co-encapsulated nanoparticles had higher DOX accumulation and superiorer tumor growth inhibition (TGI 82.9%) than free drugs or single-drug-loaded nanoparticles on MCF-7/ADR bearing-mice. Accordingly, the pH-sensitive co-delivery systems possess a promising potential to overcome MDR in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Cheng
- Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials, Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, 111 Jiulong Road, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230601, PR China
| | - Dapeng Li
- Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials, Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, 111 Jiulong Road, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230601, PR China
| | - Min Sun
- Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials, Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, 111 Jiulong Road, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230601, PR China
| | - Le He
- Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials, Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, 111 Jiulong Road, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230601, PR China
| | - Yan Zheng
- Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials, Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, 111 Jiulong Road, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230601, PR China
| | - Xin Wang
- Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials, Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, 111 Jiulong Road, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230601, PR China
| | - Rupei Tang
- Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials, Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, 111 Jiulong Road, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230601, PR China.
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10
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Li C, Dai J, Zheng D, Zhao J, Tao Y, Lei J, Xi X, Liu J. An efficient prodrug-based nanoscale delivery platform constructed by water soluble eight-arm-polyethylene glycol-diosgenin conjugate. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2019; 98:153-160. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2018.12.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 12/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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11
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Suppression of prostate tumor cell survival by antisense oligonucleotide-mediated inhibition of AR-V7 mRNA synthesis. Oncogene 2019; 38:3696-3709. [PMID: 30664691 PMCID: PMC6756119 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-0696-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
One of the mechanisms by which advanced prostate cancer develops resistance to androgen deprivation therapy is the elevated expression of C-terminally truncated androgen receptor (AR) variants. These variants, such as AR-V7, originate from aberrant splicing of the AR pre-mRNA and the inclusion of a cryptic exon containing a premature stop codon in the mRNA. The resulting loss of the ligand-binding domain allows AR-V7 to act as a constitutively active transcription factor. Here, we designed two antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) directed against cryptic splicing signals within the AR pre-mRNA. These two AONs, AON-ISE and AON-ESE, demonstrated high efficiency in silencing AR-V7 splicing without affecting full-length AR expression. The subsequent downregulation of AR-V7-target gene UBE2C was accompanied by inhibition of androgen-independent cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC)-derived cell line models 22Rv1, DuCaP, and VCaP. Our results show that splicing-directed AONs can efficiently prevent expression of AR-V7, providing an attractive new therapeutic option for the treatment of CRPC.
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12
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Iatridi Z, Angelopoulou A, Voulgari E, Avgoustakis K, Tsitsilianis C. Star-Graft Quarterpolymer-Based Polymersomes as Nanocarriers for Co-Delivery of Hydrophilic/Hydrophobic Chemotherapeutic Agents. ACS OMEGA 2018; 3:11896-11908. [PMID: 30320280 PMCID: PMC6173558 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.8b01437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
We report the fabrication of polymersomes, using as building blocks star-graft quarterpolymers, composed of hydrophobic polystyrene and pH-sensitive poly(2-vinylpyridine)-b-poly(acrylic acid) (P2VP-b-PAA) arms, emanated from a common nodule, enriched by thermosensitive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) grafts covalently bonded on the PAA block-arms. These multicompartmental polymersomes were evaluated as nanocarriers for the encapsulation and controlled co-delivery of doxorubicin (hydrophilic) and paclitaxel (hydrophobic) chemotherapeutic agents. The polymersomes can load these drugs in different compartments and can efficiently be internalized in the human lung adenocarcinoma epithelial cells, delivering their cargo and inducing high cell apoptosis. The release kinetics of both anticancer agents was controlled differently by the environmental conditions (pH and temperature). Enhanced release was observed at the acidic pH 6.0 and under physiological temperature (37 °C). At the same total drug level, co-delivery of these drugs with the polymersomes caused enhanced cytotoxicity and induced significantly higher cell apoptosis in the cancer cell line compared to the polymersomes loaded with either of the two drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zacharoula Iatridi
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Department of Pharmacy, Medical
School, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
| | - Athina Angelopoulou
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Department of Pharmacy, Medical
School, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
| | - Efstathia Voulgari
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Department of Pharmacy, Medical
School, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Avgoustakis
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Department of Pharmacy, Medical
School, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
- Biomedical
Research Foundation of Academy of Athens (BRFAA), Athens 11527, Greece
| | - Constantinos Tsitsilianis
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Department of Pharmacy, Medical
School, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece
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13
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Magrì A, Reina S, De Pinto V. VDAC1 as Pharmacological Target in Cancer and Neurodegeneration: Focus on Its Role in Apoptosis. Front Chem 2018; 6:108. [PMID: 29682501 PMCID: PMC5897536 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2018.00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer and neurodegeneration are different classes of diseases that share the involvement of mitochondria in their pathogenesis. Whereas the high glycolytic rate (the so-called Warburg metabolism) and the suppression of apoptosis are key elements for the establishment and maintenance of cancer cells, mitochondrial dysfunction and increased cell death mark neurodegeneration. As a main actor in the regulation of cell metabolism and apoptosis, VDAC may represent the common point between these two broad families of pathologies. Located in the outer mitochondrial membrane, VDAC forms channels that control the flux of ions and metabolites across the mitochondrion thus mediating the organelle's cross-talk with the rest of the cell. Furthermore, the interaction with both pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic factors makes VDAC a gatekeeper for mitochondria-mediated cell death and survival signaling pathways. Unfortunately, the lack of an evident druggability of this protein, since it has no defined binding or active sites, makes the quest for VDAC interacting molecules a difficult tale. Pharmacologically active molecules of different classes have been proposed to hit cancer and neurodegeneration. In this work, we provide an exhaustive and detailed survey of all the molecules, peptides, and microRNAs that exploit VDAC in the treatment of the two examined classes of pathologies. The mechanism of action and the potential or effectiveness of each compound are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Magrì
- Section of Molecular Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Section of Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, National Institute for Biomembranes and Biosystems, Section of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Simona Reina
- Section of Molecular Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Section of Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, National Institute for Biomembranes and Biosystems, Section of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Vito De Pinto
- Section of Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, National Institute for Biomembranes and Biosystems, Section of Catania, Catania, Italy
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14
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Wu C, Xu J, Hao Y, Zhao Y, Qiu Y, Jiang J, Yu T, Ji P, Liu Y. Application of a lipid-coated hollow calcium phosphate nanoparticle in synergistic co-delivery of doxorubicin and paclitaxel for the treatment of human lung cancer A549 cells. Int J Nanomedicine 2017; 12:7979-7992. [PMID: 29184399 PMCID: PMC5673048 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s140957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we developed a lipid-coated hollow calcium phosphate (LCP) nanoparticle for the combined application of two chemotherapeutic drugs to human lung cancer A549 cells. Hydrophilic doxorubicin (DOX) was incorporated into the hollow structure of hollow calcium phosphate (HCP), and a lipid bilayer containing hydrophobic paclitaxel (PTX) was subsequently coated on the surface of HCP. The study on combinational effects demonstrated that the combination of DOX and PTX at a mass ratio of 12:1 showed a synergistic effect against A549 cells. The particle size, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency were measured to obtain optimal values: particle size was 335.0 3.2 nm, zeta potential −41.1 mV, and encapsulation efficiency 80.40%±2.24%. An in vitro release study indicated that LCP produced a sustained drug release. A549 cells had a better uptake of LCP with good biocompatibility. Furthermore, in vitro cytotoxicity experiment, apoptosis analysis, in vivo anti-tumor efficacy and protein expression analysis of Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 demonstrated that the co-delivery system based on LCP had significant synergistic anti-tumor activity. All conclusions suggested that LCP is a promising platform for co-delivery of multiple anti-tumor drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wu
- Pharmacy School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, China
| | - Jie Xu
- Pharmacy School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, China
| | - Yanna Hao
- Pharmacy School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Pharmacy School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, China
| | - Yang Qiu
- Pharmacy School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, China
| | - Jie Jiang
- Pharmacy School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, China
| | - Tong Yu
- Pharmacy School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, China
| | - Peng Ji
- Pharmacy School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Pharmacy School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, China
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Barata P, Sood AK, Hong DS. RNA-targeted therapeutics in cancer clinical trials: Current status and future directions. Cancer Treat Rev 2016; 50:35-47. [PMID: 27612280 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in RNA delivery and target selection provide unprecedented opportunities for cancer treatment, especially for cancers that are particularly hard to treat with existing drugs. Small interfering RNAs, microRNAs, and antisense oligonucleotides are the most widely used strategies for silencing gene expression. In this review, we summarize how these approaches were used to develop drugs targeting RNA in human cells. Then, we review the current state of clinical trials of these agents for different types of cancer and outcomes from published data. Finally, we discuss lessons learned from completed studies and future directions for this class of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Barata
- Department of Solid Tumors, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, USA
| | - Anil K Sood
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David S Hong
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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A Polyethylenimine-Containing and Transferrin-Conjugated Lipid Nanoparticle System for Antisense Oligonucleotide Delivery to AML. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:1287128. [PMID: 27034925 PMCID: PMC4807046 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1287128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 12/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Limited success of antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) in clinical anticancer therapy calls for more effective delivery carriers. The goal of this study was to develop a nanoparticle system for delivery of ASO G3139, which targets mRNA of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2, to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells. The synthesized nanoparticle Tf-LPN-G3139 contained a small molecular weight polyethylenimine and two cationic lipids as condensing agents, with transferrin on its surface for selective binding and enhanced cellular uptake. The optimized nitrogen to phosphate (N/P) ratio was 4 to achieve small particle size and high G3139 entrapment efficiency. The Tf-LPN-G3139 exhibited excellent colloidal stability during storage for at least 12 weeks and remained intact for 4 hours in nuclease-containing serum. The cellular uptake results showed extensive internalization of fluorescence-labelled G3139 in MV4-11 cells through Tf-LPN. Following transfection, Tf-LPN-G3139 at 1 µM ASO level induced 54% Bcl-2 downregulation and >20-fold apoptosis compared to no treatment. When evaluated in mice bearing human xenograft AML tumors, Tf-LPN-G3139 suppressed tumor growth by ~60% at the end of treatment period, accompanied by remarkable pharmacological effect of Bcl-2 inhibition in tumor. In conclusion, Tf-LPN-G3139 is a promising nanoparticle system for ASO G3139 delivery to AML and warrants further investigations.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION This review presents recent developments in the use of nonviral vectors and transfer technologies in cancer gene therapy. Tremendous progress has been made in developing cancer gene therapy in ways that could be applicable to treatments. Numerous efforts are focused on methods of attacking known and novel targets more efficiently and specifically. In parallel to progress in nonviral vector design and delivery technologies, important achievements have been accomplished for suicide, gene replacement, gene suppression and immunostimulatory therapies. New nonviral cancer gene therapies have been developed based on emerging RNAi (si/shRNA-, miRNA) or ODN. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of recent gene therapeutic strategies in which nonviral vectors have been used experimentally and in clinical trials. Furthermore, we present current developments in nonviral vector systems in association with important chemical and physical gene delivery technologies and their potential for the future. EXPERT OPINION Nonviral gene therapy has maintained its position as an approach for treating cancer. This is reflected by the fact that more than 17% of all gene therapy trials employ nonviral approaches. Thus, nonviral vectors have emerged as a clinical alternative to viral vectors for the appropriate expression and delivery of therapeutic genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Pahle
- a Experimental and Clinical Research Center , Charité University Medicine Berlin and Max-Delbrück-Center for Moelcular Medicine , Berlin , Germany
| | - Wolfgang Walther
- a Experimental and Clinical Research Center , Charité University Medicine Berlin and Max-Delbrück-Center for Moelcular Medicine , Berlin , Germany
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Abstract
For suicide gene therapy, initially prodrug-converting enzymes (gene-directed enzyme-producing therapy, GDEPT) were employed to intracellularly metabolize non-toxic prodrugs into toxic compounds, leading to the effective suicidal killing of the transfected tumor cells. In this regard, the suicide gene therapy has demonstrated its potential for efficient tumor eradication. Numerous suicide genes of viral or bacterial origin were isolated, characterized, and extensively tested in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating their therapeutic potential even in clinical trials to treat cancers of different entities. Apart from this, growing efforts are made to generate more targeted and more effective suicide gene systems for cancer gene therapy. In this regard, bacterial toxins are an alternative to the classical GDEPT strategy, which add to the broad spectrum of different suicide approaches. In this context, lytic bacterial toxins, such as streptolysin O (SLO) or the claudin-targeted Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE) represent attractive new types of suicide oncoleaking genes. They permit as pore-forming proteins rapid and also selective toxicity toward a broad range of cancers. In this chapter, we describe the generation and use of SLO as well as of CPE-based gene therapies for the effective tumor cell eradication as promising, novel suicide gene approach particularly for treatment of therapy refractory tumors.
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Patel PL, Rana NK, Patel MR, Kozuch SD, Sabatino D. Nucleic Acid Bioconjugates in Cancer Detection and Therapy. ChemMedChem 2015; 11:252-69. [PMID: 26663095 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201500502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2015] [Revised: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Nucleoside- and nucleotide-based chemotherapeutics have been used to treat cancer for more than 50 years. However, their inherent cytotoxicities and the emergent resistance of tumors against treatment has inspired a new wave of compounds in which the overall pharmacological profile of the bioactive nucleic acid component is improved by conjugation with delivery vectors, small-molecule drugs, and/or imaging modalities. In this manner, nucleic acid bioconjugates have the potential for targeting and effecting multiple biological processes in tumors, leading to synergistic antitumor effects. Consequently, tumor resistance and recurrence is mitigated, leading to more effective forms of cancer therapy. Bioorthogonal chemistry has led to the development of new nucleoside bioconjugates, which have served to improve treatment efficacy en route towards FDA approval. Similarly, oligonucleotide bioconjugates have shown encouraging preclinical and clinical results. The modified oligonucleotides and their pharmaceutically active formulations have addressed many weaknesses of oligonucleotide-based drugs. They have also paved the way for important advancements in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Cancer-targeting ligands such as small-molecules, peptides, and monoclonal antibody fragments have all been successfully applied in oligonucleotide bioconjugation and have shown promising anticancer effects in vitro and in vivo. Thus, the application of bioorthogonal chemistry will, in all likelihood, continue to supply a promising pipeline of nucleic acid bioconjugates for applications in cancer detection and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeepkumar L Patel
- Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Inc., Analytical Research and Development, 270 Prospect Plains Road, Cranbury, NJ, 08512, USA
| | - Niki K Rana
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Seton Hall University, 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ, 07079, USA
| | - Mayurbhai R Patel
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Seton Hall University, 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ, 07079, USA
| | - Stephen D Kozuch
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Seton Hall University, 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ, 07079, USA
| | - David Sabatino
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Seton Hall University, 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ, 07079, USA.
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Targeting BCL-2 to enhance vulnerability to therapy in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Oncogene 2015; 35:1877-87. [PMID: 26257067 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The last three decades have seen significant progress in our understanding of the role of the pro-survival protein BCL-2 and its family members in apoptosis and cancer. BCL-2 and other pro-survival family members including Mcl-1 and BCL-XL have been shown to have a key role in keeping pro-apoptotic 'effector' proteins BAK and BAX in check. They also neutralize a group of 'sensor' proteins (such as BIM), which are triggered by cytotoxic stimuli such as chemotherapy. BCL-2 proteins therefore have a central role as guardians against apoptosis, helping cancer cells to evade cell death. More recently, an increasing number of BH3 mimetics, which bind and neutralize BCL-2 and/or its pro-survival relatives, have been developed. The utility of targeting BCL-2 in hematological malignancies has become evident in early-phase studies, with remarkable clinical responses seen in heavily pretreated patients. As BCL-2 is overexpressed in ~75% of breast cancer, there has been growing interest in determining whether this new class of drug could show similar promise in breast cancer. This review summarizes our current understanding of the role of BCL-2 and its family members in mammary gland development and breast cancer, recent progress in the development of new BH3 mimetics as well as their potential for targeting estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.
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BCL2 is an independent predictor of outcome in basal-like triple-negative breast cancers treated with adjuvant anthracycline-based chemotherapy. Tumour Biol 2015; 36:4243-52. [PMID: 25616695 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-3061-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neither targeted therapies nor predictors for chemotherapy sensitivity are available for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Our study included 187 patients with TNBC, 164 of whom were treated with anthracycline-based adjuvant chemotherapy. Eleven molecular biomarkers were analyzed. BCL2, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), MYC, TOP2A, and Ki-67 protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The status of the EGFR, MYC, and TOP2A genes and chromosomes 7, 8, and 17 was assessed using fluorescence in situ hybridization. High BCL2 expression predicted poor relapse-free survival (RFS) in patients treated with anthracycline-based adjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.035), poor breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) (p = 0.048), and a trend to poor overall survival (OS) (p = 0.085). High levels of BCL2 expression predicted poor OS in basal-like (BL) TNBC patients treated with adjuvant anthracycline-based regimens (log-rank p = 0.033, hazard ratio (HR) 3.04, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.04-8.91) and a trend to poor RFS (log-rank p = 0.079) and poor BCSS (log-rank p = 0.056). Multivariate analysis showed that BCL2 status, tumor size, and nodal status all had independent predictive significance for RFS (p = 0.005, p = 0.091, p = 0.003, respectively; likelihood ratio test for the whole model, p = 0.003), BCSS (p = 0.012, p = 0.077, p = 0.01, respectively; likelihood ratio test for the whole model, p = 0.016), and OS (p = 0.008, p = 0.004, p = 0.004, respectively; likelihood ratio test for the whole model, p = 0.0006). Similarly, multivariate analysis for BL TNBC showed BCL2, tumor size, and nodal status all had independent predictive significance for RFS (likelihood ratio test for the whole model, p = 0.00125), BCSS (p = 0.00035), and OS (p = 0.00063). High EGFR expression was associated with poor BCSS (p = 0.039) in patients treated with anthracycline-based adjuvant chemotherapy. Patients who underwent anthracycline-based adjuvant chemotherapy and exhibited CMYC amplification had a trend to worse BCSS (p = 0.066). In conclusion, high BCL2 expression is a significant independent predictor of poor outcome in TNBC patients treated with anthracycline-based adjuvant chemotherapy, and this is the first study showing the BCL2 prediction in BL TNBC. BCL2 expression analysis could facilitate decision making on adjuvant treatment in TNBC patients.
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Lv S, Tang Z, Li M, Lin J, Song W, Liu H, Huang Y, Zhang Y, Chen X. Co-delivery of doxorubicin and paclitaxel by PEG-polypeptide nanovehicle for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Biomaterials 2014; 35:6118-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2014.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In recent years, remarkable progress has been made in the development of cancer gene therapy into an applicable treatment modality for immunogene, suicide, gene correction and oncolytic therapies. New exciting developments for gene suppression or miRNA therapies are under way. The efforts are focused on more efficient and specific attack at known and novel targets, improvement of vector delivery and therapeutic efficacy. In this review, promising and new gene therapy approaches and clinical studies are briefly discussed to highlight important future directions of preclinical and clinical efforts. RECENT FINDINGS Apart from progress for vector development and even more important, improvements for suicide, T-cell-based, oncolytic virus therapies were achieved. In addition, new emerging therapies are successfully developed, which are particularly promising for siRNA-based technologies applied to gene suppression therapy. Novel approaches, such as transcription factor ODN-based decoy, complement the spectrum of current cancer gene therapy. SUMMARY In summary, cancer gene therapy has made remarkable progress in the improvement/refinement of existing strategies and delivery systems. The field is moving toward a therapeutic option, which will also be applicable for the treatment of disseminated metastases. Furthermore, numerous new approaches are about to be translated in clinical trials.
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Bcl-2-enhanced efficacy of microtubule-targeting chemotherapy through Bim overexpression: implications for cancer treatment. Neoplasia 2013; 15:49-60. [PMID: 23358890 DOI: 10.1593/neo.121074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2012] [Revised: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Bcl-2 is commonly overexpressed in tumors, where it is often associated with unfavorable outcome. However, it has also been linked to a favorable sensitivity to microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs). We show that Bcl-2-overexpressing lung and breast cancer cells were more sensitive to both paclitaxel and vinorelbine. Bcl-2 over-expression also significantly potentiated in vivo efficacy of paclitaxel, in terms of tumor volume decrease and survival benefits, in models of nude mice bearing lung cancer xenografts. To further investigate this favorable effect of Bcl-2, a genomic approach was taken. It revealed that Bcl-2 overexpression induced up-regulation of the proapoptotic protein Bim in lung cancer cells and that, conversely, Bcl-2 silencing decreased Bim expression level. A gene regulation study implicated the transcription factor Forkhead box-containing protein, class O3a in Bim up-regulation. Lastly, we show that Bim was responsible for MTA-triggered lung cancer cell death through a dynamin-related protein 1-mediated mitochondrial fragmentation. The Bcl-2-governed Bim induction evidence offers for the first time an explanation for the favorable higher sensitivity to treatment shown by Bcl-2-overexpressing cells. We suggest that Bim could be a powerful predictive factor for tumor response to MTA chemotherapy. Our data also give new insight into some failures in the efficacy of therapies targeted against Bcl-2.
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Masood A, Azmi AS, Mohammad RM. Small molecule inhibitors of bcl-2 family proteins for pancreatic cancer therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2013; 3:1527-49. [PMID: 21760983 PMCID: PMC3134295 DOI: 10.3390/cancers3021527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) has a complex etiology and displays a wide range of cellular escape pathways that allow it to resist different treatment modalities. Crucial signaling molecules that function downstream of the survival pathways, particularly at points where several of these pathways crosstalk, provide valuable targets for the development of novel anti-cancer drugs. Bcl-2 family member proteins are anti-apoptotic molecules that are known to be overexpressed in most cancers including PC. The anti-apoptotic machinery has been linked to the observed resistance developed to chemotherapy and radiation and therefore is important from the targeted drug development point of view. Over the past ten years, our group has extensively studied a series of small molecule inhibitors of Bcl-2 against PC and provide solid preclinical platform for testing such novel drugs in the clinic. This review examines the efficacy, potency, and function of several small molecule inhibitor drugs targeted to the Bcl-2 family of proteins and their preclinical progress against PC. This article further focuses on compounds that have been studied the most and also discusses the anti-cancer potential of newer class of Bcl-2 drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashiq Masood
- Department of Internal Medicine/Pathology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, 4100 John R, HWCRC 732, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Asfar S. Azmi
- Department of Pathology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, 4100 John R, HWCRC 732, Detroit MI 48201, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Ramzi M. Mohammad
- Department of Internal Medicine/Pathology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, 4100 John R, HWCRC 732, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; E-Mail:
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R, HWCRC 732, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +1-313-576-8329; Fax: +1-313-576-8389
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Hudson SG, Halleran DR, Nevaldine B, Shapiro A, Hutchison RE, Hahn PJ. Microarray determination of Bcl-2 family protein inhibition sensitivity in breast cancer cells. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2013; 238:248-56. [PMID: 23576806 DOI: 10.1177/1535370212474582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study tests the hypothesis that reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) microarrays can be used to predict the relative sensitivity to induction of apoptosis in breast cancer cells exposed to inhibitors of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins. Four cell lines, MDA-MB-231 (MDA-231) and MDA-MB-468 (MDA-468), BT-20 and T47-D were screened for relative expression of Bcl-2 family members A1, Mcl-1, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and Bcl-w mRNA by RT-PCR microarrays and Western analysis. The four cell lines were treated with 1 μmol/L obatoclax (GX15-070) and/or 2 Gy radiation (RT) and monitored for apoptosis after 48 h. Cell lines showing the highest total fold-increase of Bcl-2 family member mRNA, MDA-231 and MDA-468, also showed the highest levels of apoptosis induction (approximately 70% with obatoclax alone and 82% with obatoclax plus RT). Cell lines with little or no increase in Bcl-2 family mRNA (BT-20 and T47-D) showed less apoptosis (30% following treatment with obatoclax and 42% with obatoclax plus RT). RT-PCR arrays can predict the relative apoptosis response of breast cancer cells to the pan Bcl-2 inhibitor obatoclax alone or when combined with radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra G Hudson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA.
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O'Toole SA, Beith JM, Millar EKA, West R, McLean A, Cazet A, Swarbrick A, Oakes SR. Therapeutic targets in triple negative breast cancer. J Clin Pathol 2013; 66:530-42. [DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2012-201361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Bodur C, Kutuk O, Karsli-Uzunbas G, Isimjan TT, Harrison P, Basaga H. Pramanicin analog induces apoptosis in human colon cancer cells: critical roles for Bcl-2, Bim, and p38 MAPK signaling. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56369. [PMID: 23441183 PMCID: PMC3575438 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Accepted: 01/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pramanicin (PMC) is an antifungal agent that was previously demonstrated to exhibit antiangiogenic and anticancer properties in a few in vitro studies. We initially screened a number of PMC analogs for their cytotoxic effects on HCT116 human colon cancer cells. PMC-A, the analog with the most potent antiproliferative effect was chosen to further interrogate the underlying mechanism of action. PMC-A led to apoptosis through activation of caspase-9 and -3. The apoptotic nature of cell death was confirmed by abrogation of cell death with pretreatment with specific caspase inhibitors. Stress-related MAPKs JNK and p38 were both activated concomittantly with the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Moreover, pharmacological inhibition of p38 proved to attenuate the cell death induction while pretreatment with JNK inhibitor did not exhibit a protective effect. Resistance of Bax −/− cells and the protective nature of caspase-9 inhibition indicate that mitochondria play a central role in PMC-A induced apoptosis. Early post-exposure elevation of cellular Bim and Bax was followed by a marginal Bcl-2 depletion and Bid cleavage. Further analysis revealed that Bcl-2 downregulation occurs at the mRNA level and is critical to mediate PMC-A induced apoptosis, as ectopic Bcl-2 expression substantially spared the cells from death. Conversely, forced expression of Bim proved to significantly increase cell death. In addition, analyses of p53−/− cells demonstrated that Bcl-2/Bim/Bax modulation and MAPK activations take place independently of p53 expression. Taken together, p53-independent transcriptional Bcl-2 downregulation and p38 signaling appear to be the key modulatory events in PMC-A induced apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cagri Bodur
- Biological Sciences and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Lindeman GJ, Visvader JE. Targeting BCL-2 in breast cancer: exploiting a tumor lifeline to deliver a mortal blow? BREAST CANCER MANAGEMENT 2013. [DOI: 10.2217/bmt.12.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey J Lindeman
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia
| | - Jane E Visvader
- ACRF Stem Cells & Cancer Division, The Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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Barar J, Omidi Y. Translational Approaches towards Cancer Gene Therapy: Hurdles and Hopes. BIOIMPACTS : BI 2012; 2:127-43. [PMID: 23678451 DOI: 10.5681/bi.2012.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2012] [Revised: 09/02/2012] [Accepted: 09/11/2012] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Of the cancer gene therapy approaches, gene silencing, suicide/apoptosis inducing gene therapy, immunogene therapy and targeted gene therapy are deemed to sub-stantially control the biological consequences of genomic changes in cancerous cells. Thus, a large number of clinical trials have been conducted against various malignancies. In this review, we will discuss recent translational progresses of gene and cell therapy of cancer. METHODS Essential information on gene therapy of cancer were reviewed and discussed towards their clinical translations. RESULTS Gene transfer has been rigorously studied in vitro and in vivo, in which some of these gene therapy endeavours have been carried on towards translational investigations and clinical applications. About 65% of gene therapy trials are related to cancer therapy. Some of these trials have been combined with cell therapy to produce personalized medicines such as Sipuleucel-T (Provenge®, marketed by Dendreon, USA) for the treatment of asymptomatic/minimally symptomatic metastatic hormone-refractory prostate cancer. CONCLUSION Translational approach links two diverse boundaries of basic and clinical researches. For successful translation of geno-medicines into clinical applications, it is essential 1) to have the guidelines and standard operating procedures for development and application of the genomedicines specific to clinically relevant biomarker(s); 2) to conduct necessary animal experimental studies to show the "proof of concept" for the proposed genomedicines; 3) to perform an initial clinical investigation; and 4) to initiate extensive clinical trials to address all necessary requirements. In short, translational researches need to be refined to accelerate the geno-medicine development and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaleh Barar
- Ovarian Cancer Research Center, Translational Research Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Weecharangsan W, Lee RJ. Growth inhibition and chemosensitization of human carcinoma cells by human serum albumin-coated liposomal antisense oligodeoxyribonucleotide against bcl-2. Drug Deliv 2012; 19:292-7. [PMID: 22931245 DOI: 10.3109/10717544.2012.714810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous study has shown human serum albumin (HSA) coated liposomes can deliver bcl-2 antisense oligodeoxyribonucleotide (ODN) into KB carcinoma cells, and decrease bcl-2 mRNA and protein expression level. In the current study, cell growth inhibition and chemosensitization of KB cells were evaluated. Liposomes composed of dimethyldioctadecyl ammonium bromide/egg phosphatidylcholine/α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (58:40:2 molar ratio) complexed with bcl-2 antisense ODN and coated with HSA were examined for cell growth inhibition and sensitization to a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug, doxorubicin. HSA-coated liposome-ODN complexes effectively inhibited cell growth in the range of ODN concentration of 0.45-7.2 µM. Upon posttreatment with doxorubicin, the cytotoxicity was further significantly increased compared to the ODN complexes alone. The cytotoxicity was dependent on antisense ODN concentration, incubation time and doxorubicin concentration, and relatively independent on HSA concentration. This study suggests that HSA-coated liposomes are effective delivery vehicles for antisense ODN with potential therapeutic application and can be effectively combined with doxorubicin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanlop Weecharangsan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Srinakharinwirot University, Nakhonnayok, Thailand.
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Jia LT, Chen SY, Yang AG. Cancer gene therapy targeting cellular apoptosis machinery. Cancer Treat Rev 2012; 38:868-76. [PMID: 22800735 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2012.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2012] [Revised: 06/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The unraveling of cellular apoptosis machinery provides novel targets for cancer treatment, and gene therapy targeting this suicidal system has been corroborated to cause inflammation-free autonomous elimination of neoplastic cells. The apoptotic machinery can be targeted by introduction of a gene encoding an inducer, mediator or executioner of apoptotic cell death or by inhibition of anti-apoptotic gene expression. Strategies targeting cancer cells, which are achieved by selective gene delivery, specific gene expression or secretion of target proteins via genetic modification of autologous cells, dictate the outcome of apoptosis-based cancer gene therapy. Despite so far limited clinical success, gene therapy targeting the apoptotic machinery has great potential to benefit patients with threatening malignancies provided the availability of efficient and specific gene delivery and administration systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Tao Jia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
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Quantitative analysis of survivin protein expression and its therapeutic depletion by an antisense oligonucleotide in human lung tumors. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2012; 1:e30. [PMID: 23344082 PMCID: PMC3390226 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2012.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
RNA-directed antisense and interference therapeutics are a promising treatment option for cancer. The demonstration of depletion of target proteins within human tumors in vivo using validated methodology will be a key to the application of this technology. Here, we present a flow cytometric-based approach to quantitatively determine protein levels in solid tumor material derived by fiber optic brushing (FOB) of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Focusing upon the survivin protein, and its depletion by an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) (LY2181308), we show that we can robustly identify a subpopulation of survivin positive tumor cells in FOB samples, and, moreover, detect survivin depletion in tumor samples from a patient treated with LY2181308. Survivin depletion appears to be a result of treatment with this ASO, because a tumor treated with conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy did not exhibit a decreased percentage of survivin positive cells. Our approach is likely to be broadly applicable to, and useful for, the quantification of protein levels in tumor samples obtained as part of clinical trials and studies, facilitating the proof-of-principle testing of novel targeted therapies.
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Morrow PK, Murthy RK, Ensor JD, Gordon GS, Margolin KA, Elias AD, Urba WJ, Weng DE, Rugo HS, Hortobagyi GN. An open-label, phase 2 trial of RPI.4610 (Angiozyme) in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer. Cancer 2012; 118:4098-104. [PMID: 22281842 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.26730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2011] [Revised: 09/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serum and plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) correlate with prognosis in patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). VEGF binds to 2 receptors on endothelial cells, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2. RPI.4610 (Angiozyme0) is an antiangiogenic ribozyme targeting the VEGFR-1 mRNA. Preclinical and phase 1 studies suggested that RPI.4610 is a well-tolerated agent with clinical activity in solid tumors. The authors' trial evaluated the efficacy of RPI.4610 in the treatment of patients with progressive MBC. METHODS This phase 2, multicenter, single-arm study was designed to assess the objective response rate of RPI.4610 in patients with MBC who had experienced disease progression with at least 1 course of chemotherapy for MBC. Patients received daily subcutaneous injections of RPI.4610 100 mg/m(2) for 12 weeks. RESULTS Most patients (93%) had received at least 2 lines of chemotherapy previously; 69% of patients had received at least 3 lines of chemotherapy. Median follow-up was 2.76 months (range, 0.89-36.6 months). No partial responses nor complete responses were found. Median progression-free survival was 1.41 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35-1.45). The median overall survival from start of treatment was 11.89 months (95% CI, 4.11-23.66). Treatment-related adverse events (AEs) were primarily grade 1 to 2 in intensity. Most common AEs were: injection site reactions, abdominal pain, anorexia, chromaturia, constipation, dyspnea, fatigue, headache, pain at the injection site, nausea, vomiting, and fever. CONCLUSIONS Although RPI.4610 demonstrated a well-tolerated safety profile, its lack of clinical efficacy precludes this drug from further development.
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Zapata-Benavides P, Manilla-Muñoz E, Zamora-Avila DE, Saavedra-Alonso S, Franco-Molina MA, Trejo-Avila LM, Davalos-Aranda G, Rodríguez-Padilla C. WT1 silencing by RNAi synergizes with chemotherapeutic agents and induces chemosensitization to doxorubicin and cisplatin in B16F10 murine melanoma cells. Oncol Lett 2012; 3:751-755. [PMID: 22740987 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2012.578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2011] [Accepted: 11/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Wilm's tumor gene (WT1), encoding a transcription factor that modulates the expression of certain genes that are involved in proliferation and apoptosis, is overexpressed in numerous solid tumors. WT1 is important for cell proliferation and in the diagnosis of melanoma. The objectives of this study were to investigate whether WT1 silencing is capable of synergizing with chemotherapeutic agents and whether this silencing is capable of sensitizing cancer cells to doxorubicin and cisplatin in the B16F10 murine melanoma cell line. In the present study, B16F10 cells were simultaneously treated with median lethal doses (LD50s) of WT1-1 or WT1-2 small hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) and chemotherapeutic agents. A total of 24 h post-transfection, a [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl)-2,5- diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay] MTT assay was performed. To determine whether shRNA interference (shRNAi) is capable of sensitizing B16F10 cells to chemotherapeutic agents, cells were transfected with an LD50 of each of the recombinant plasmids, treated with varying concentrations of doxorubicin or cisplatin 24 h post-transfection, and analyzed 48 h later for inhibition of cell proliferation using the MTT assay. We observed that WT1-RNAi and the two chemotherapeutic agents acted synergistically to inhibit B16F10 cell proliferation. The greatest inhibition of cell proliferation was observed with the WT1-2/cisplatin (91%) and WT1-1/cisplatin combinations (85%). WT1 silencing using shRNAi induced the chemosensitization of cells to doxorubicin and cisplatin, with the greatest inhibition (85%) of cell proliferation being observed in the cells treated with the WT1-2/cisplatin 6 ng/µl combination. Our results provide direct evidence that WT1 gene silencing has a synergistic effect with chemotherapeutic drugs and sensitizes B16F10 melanoma cells to doxorubicin and cisplatin. This suggests that these combination strategies are potentially utilized in melanoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Zapata-Benavides
- Laboratorio de Inmunología y Virología, Departamento de Microbiología e Inmunología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas de la Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, N.L. México
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Bulut S, Erkal TS, Toksoz S, Tekinay AB, Tekinay T, Guler MO. Slow release and delivery of antisense oligonucleotide drug by self-assembled peptide amphiphile nanofibers. Biomacromolecules 2011; 12:3007-14. [PMID: 21707109 DOI: 10.1021/bm200641e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides provide a promising therapeutic approach for several disorders including cancer. Chemical stability, controlled release, and intracellular delivery are crucial factors determining their efficacy. Gels composed of nanofibrous peptide network have been previously suggested as carriers for controlled delivery of drugs to improve stability and to provide controlled release, but have not been used for oligonucleotide delivery. In this work, a self-assembled peptide nanofibrous system is formed by mixing a cationic peptide amphiphile (PA) with Bcl-2 antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN), G3139, through electrostatic interactions. The self-assembly of PA-ODN gel was characterized by circular dichroism, rheology, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). AFM and SEM images revealed establishment of the nanofibrous PA-ODN network. Due to the electrostatic interactions between PA and ODN, ODN release can be controlled by changing PA and ODN concentrations in the PA-ODN gel. Cellular delivery of the ODN by PA-ODN nanofiber complex was observed by using fluorescently labeled ODN molecule. Cells incubated with PA-ODN complex had enhanced cellular uptake compared to cells incubated with naked ODN. Furthermore, Bcl-2 mRNA amounts were lower in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells in the presence of PA-ODN complex compared to naked ODN and mismatch ODN evidenced by quantitative RT-PCR studies. These results suggest that PA molecules can control ODN release, enhance cellular uptake and present a novel efficient approach for gene therapy studies and oligonucleotide based drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma Bulut
- UNAM-Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, Bilkent University, Ankara 06800, Turkey
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Li H, Piao L, Xu P, Ye W, Zhong S, Lin SH, Kulp SK, Mao Y, Cho Y, Lee LJ, Lee RJ, Lin YC. Liposomes containing (-)-gossypol-enriched cottonseed oil suppress Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL expression in breast cancer cells. Pharm Res 2011; 28:3256-64. [PMID: 21710341 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-011-0498-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2011] [Accepted: 05/27/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We have demonstrated that (-)-gossypol-enriched cottonseed oil [(-)-GPCSO] can down-regulate Bcl-2 expression in MCF-7 and primary cultured human breast cancer epithelial cells (PCHBCECs). However, this agent has not been evaluated in vivo due to its limited solubility. We aimed to develop liposomes containing (-)-GPCSO to suppress Bcl-2/Bcl-xL expression. METHODS (-)-GPCSO liposomes were prepared and evaluated for effects on breast cancer cell viability, MDA-MB-231 xenograft tumor growth, cellular Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL mRNA levels, and chemosensitivity to paclitaxel. RESULTS (-)-GPCSO liposomes prepared had excellent stability. Cytotoxicity of (-)-GPCSO liposomes was significantly reduced compared to (-)-GPCSO in culture medium. Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL mRNA expression was down-regulated by (-)-GPCSO in culture medium or (-)-GPCSO liposomes in MDA-MB-231 cells. In PCHBCECs, Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL expression were down-regulated by (-)-GPCSO liposomes. (-)-GPCSO in culture medium induced only a mild reduction in Bcl-xL. In the MDA-MB-231 xenograft tumor model, (-)-GPCSO liposomes exhibited tumor-suppressive activity and significantly reduced intratumoral Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL expression. Cytotoxicity of paclitaxel was increased by pretreatment with (-)-GPCSO liposomes in MDA-MB-231 and PCHBCECs. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that (-)-GPCSO liposomes warrant continued investigation as a chemosensitizer for breast cancers exhibiting Bcl-2-/Bcl-xL-mediated drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Li
- Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 500 West 12th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
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Munagala R, Aqil F, Gupta RC. Promising molecular targeted therapies in breast cancer. Indian J Pharmacol 2011; 43:236-45. [PMID: 21713084 PMCID: PMC3113372 DOI: 10.4103/0253-7613.81497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2010] [Accepted: 02/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a significant improvement in the understanding of molecular events and critical pathways involved in breast cancer. This has led to the identification of novel targets and development of anticancer therapies referred to as targeted therapy. Targeted therapy has high specificity for the molecules involved in key molecular events that are responsible for cancer phenotype such as cell growth, survival, migration, invasion, metastasis, apoptosis, cell-cycle progression, and angiogenesis. Targeted agents that have been approved for breast cancer include trastuzumab and lapatinib, directed against human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and bevacizumab, directed against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Several other targeted agents currently under evaluation in preclinical and clinical trials include inhibitors of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), dual EGFR and HER2 inhibitors, VEGF/VEGFR inhibitors, and agents that interfere with crucial signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAS/MEK/ERK; agents against other tyrosine kinases such as Src, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)/IGF-receptor (IGFR); agents that promote apoptosis such as Poly ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors; agents that target invasion and metastasis such as matrix metalloproteinases inhibitors and others. In this review, we highlight the most promising targeted agents and their combination with mainstream chemotherapeutic drugs in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radha Munagala
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville
| | - Farrukh Aqil
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville
| | - Ramesh C. Gupta
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville
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Speirs CK, Hwang M, Kim S, Li W, Chang S, Varki V, Mitchell L, Schleicher S, Lu B. Harnessing the cell death pathway for targeted cancer treatment. Am J Cancer Res 2010; 1:43-61. [PMID: 21969218 PMCID: PMC3180107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2010] [Accepted: 09/29/2010] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Genotoxic agents have long targeted apoptotic cell death as a primary means of treating cancer. However, the presence of cellular defects in many cancers has contributed to an acquired resistance to apoptotic cell death, lowering the effectiveness of chemo- and radiotherapies. The mechanisms by which cells achieve this resistance to treatment are still being investigated, but an alternative approach is the study of cell death pathways that are mechanistically distinct from apoptosis. These pathways, including autophagy and necrosis, have arisen as attractive targets for cancer therapy. This review will discuss apoptosis, autophagy, and necrosis in the context of tumorigenesis and drug resistance, as well as provide an up-to-date preclinical and clinical review of inhibitors targeting these cell death pathways for multiple cancer types. The goal of these studies is to identify molecular targets that will enhance the efficacy and specificity of current cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina K Speirs
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center Nashville Tennessee, USA
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Azmi AS, Wang Z, Philip PA, Mohammad RM, Sarkar FH. Emerging Bcl-2 inhibitors for the treatment of cancer. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2010; 16:59-70. [PMID: 20812891 DOI: 10.1517/14728214.2010.515210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bcl-2 family proteins are a component of the antiapoptotic machinery and are overexpressed in different malignancies. Accordingly, their enhanced expression has been attributed to the observed chemoresistance in most of the cancers. Therefore, targeting Bcl-2 family members becomes an important and attractive approach towards cancer therapy and is currently a very rapidly evolving area of research. This article highlights the numerous advancements that have been made in the design and synthesis of small molecule inhibitors (SMI) of pro-survival Bcl-2 proteins. AREAS COVERED This review comprehensively describes the progress made over the last 2 decades on this subject, including the clinical status of SMIs of Bcl-2 family proteins. Newer insights on the status of our knowledge on SMIs of Bcl-2 family proteins, their most beneficial application as well as current and future directions in this field are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Targeting Bcl-2 family proteins using SMI strategies is gaining momentum, with the emergence of certain new classes of inhibitors in Phase I and II clinical settings. In view of the tremendous progress toward the development of such inhibitors, this innovative approach certainly holds promise and has the potential to become a future mainstay for cancer therapy. The stage is set for the next generation of SMIs, for not only Bcl-2 proteins but also for Mcl-1. Other emerging molecules in the apoptotic machinery will also be explored and targeted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asfar S Azmi
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, 740 Hudson Webber Cancer Research Center, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Department of Pathology, 4100 John R, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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Abstract
Mitochondria are the cells' powerhouse, but also their suicidal weapon store. Dozens of lethal signal transduction pathways converge on mitochondria to cause the permeabilization of the mitochondrial outer membrane, leading to the cytosolic release of pro-apoptotic proteins and to the impairment of the bioenergetic functions of mitochondria. The mitochondrial metabolism of cancer cells is deregulated owing to the use of glycolytic intermediates, which are normally destined for oxidative phosphorylation, in anabolic reactions. Activation of the cell death machinery in cancer cells by inhibiting tumour-specific alterations of the mitochondrial metabolism or by stimulating mitochondrial membrane permeabilization could therefore be promising therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Fulda
- University Children's Hospital, Ulm University, Eythstrasse 24, D-89075 Ulm, Germany.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Members of the Bcl-2 family of proteins are critical components in regulating the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Bcl-2 protein overexpression is associated with drug resistance and poor clinical outcome in cancer patients. Preclinical and clinical evaluations demonstrate that downregulation of Bcl-2 restores the intrinsic apoptotic pathways with antitumor effects. Thus, Bcl-2 is aggressively pursued as a therapeutic target in cancer with several new drugs undergoing clinical investigations. In this manuscript, we will review clinical information on some of the novel compounds specifically designed to target the Bcl-2 gene product(s). RECENT FINDINGS Extensive clinical evaluations using a Bcl-2-specific antisense have resulted in an overall disappointing experience. But new small molecule inhibitors of the Bcl-2 hold promise with high target affinity, ease of administration and improved toxicity profile. Early stage clinical trials of these agents are revealing promising results alone as well as in combination with existing anticancer therapeutics. Encouraging results from some of these clinical investigations are summarized in this review. SUMMARY Downregulation of Bcl-2 and restoration of a critical apoptotic pathway in cancer cells remains an important strategy. Novel Bcl-2 inhibitors have started to deliver the therapeutic promise of this target-specific quest.
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