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Campos-Fernández E, Alqualo NO, Vaz ER, Rodrigues CM, Alonso-Goulart V. Unveiling the characteristics of D4 and R4 aptamers for their future use in prostate cancer clinical practice. Biophys Chem 2024; 311:107259. [PMID: 38763045 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2024.107259] [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: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The DNA and RNA aptamers D4 and R4, respectively, emerged from the modification of PC-3 cell-binding aptamer A4. Our objective was to characterize the aptamers in silico and in vitro and begin to identify their target molecules. We represented their structures using computational algorithms; evaluated their binding to several prostate cell lines and their effects on the viability and migration of these cells; and determined their dissociation constant by flow cytometry. We analyzed circulating prostate tumor cells from patients using D4, R4, anti-CD133 and anti-CD44. Finally, the target proteins of both aptamers were precipitated and identified by mass spectrometry to simulate their in silico docking. The aptamers presented similar structures and bound to prostate tumor cells without modifying the cellular parameters studied, but with different affinities. The ligand cells for both aptamers were CD44+, indicating that they could identify cells in the mesenchymal stage of the metastatic process. The possible target proteins NXPE1, ADAM30, and MUC6 need to be further studied to better understand their interaction with the aptamers. These results support the development of new assays to determine the clinical applications of D4 and R4 aptamers in prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Campos-Fernández
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology Prof. Dr. Luiz Ricardo Goulart Filho, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Nathalia Oliveira Alqualo
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology Prof. Dr. Luiz Ricardo Goulart Filho, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Emília Rezende Vaz
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology Prof. Dr. Luiz Ricardo Goulart Filho, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Cláudia Mendonça Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology Prof. Dr. Luiz Ricardo Goulart Filho, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Vivian Alonso-Goulart
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology Prof. Dr. Luiz Ricardo Goulart Filho, Institute of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
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Chintamaneni PK, Pindiprolu SKSS, Swain SS, Karri VVSR, Nesamony J, Chelliah S, Bhaskaran M. Conquering chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer: Exploring novel drug therapies and delivery approaches amidst desmoplasia and hypoxia. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216782. [PMID: 38453046 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216782] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer poses a significant challenge within the field of oncology due to its aggressive behaviour, limited treatment choices, and unfavourable outlook. With a mere 10% survival rate at the 5-year mark, finding effective interventions becomes even more pressing. The intricate relationship between desmoplasia and hypoxia in the tumor microenvironment further complicates matters by promoting resistance to chemotherapy and impeding treatment efficacy. The dense extracellular matrix and cancer-associated fibroblasts characteristic of desmoplasia create a physical and biochemical barrier that impedes drug penetration and fosters an immunosuppressive milieu. Concurrently, hypoxia nurtures aggressive tumor behaviour and resistance to conventional therapies. a comprehensive exploration of emerging medications and innovative drug delivery approaches. Notably, advancements in nanoparticle-based delivery systems, local drug delivery implants, and oxygen-carrying strategies are highlighted for their potential to enhance drug accessibility and therapeutic outcomes. The integration of these strategies with traditional chemotherapies and targeted agents reveals the potential for synergistic effects that amplify treatment responses. These emerging interventions can mitigate desmoplasia and hypoxia-induced barriers, leading to improved drug delivery, treatment efficacy, and patient outcomes in pancreatic cancer. This review article delves into the dynamic landscape of emerging anticancer medications and innovative drug delivery strategies poised to overcome the challenges imposed by desmoplasia and hypoxia in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavan Kumar Chintamaneni
- Department of Pharmaceutics, GITAM School of Pharmacy, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Rudraram, 502329 Telangana, India.
| | | | - Swati Swagatika Swain
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Jerry Nesamony
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Toledo HSC, 3000 Arlington Avenue, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA
| | - Selvam Chelliah
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX-77004, USA
| | - Mahendran Bhaskaran
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Toledo HSC, 3000 Arlington Avenue, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA.
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Tabatabaee A, Nafari B, Farhang A, Hariri A, Khosravi A, Zarrabi A, Mirian M. Targeting vimentin: a multifaceted approach to combatting cancer metastasis and drug resistance. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:363-377. [PMID: 38012357 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10154-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
This comprehensive review explores vimentin as a pivotal therapeutic target in cancer treatment, with a primary focus on mitigating metastasis and overcoming drug resistance. Vimentin, a key player in cancer progression, is intricately involved in processes such as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and resistance mechanisms to standard cancer therapies. The review delves into diverse vimentin inhibition strategies. Precision tools, including antibodies and nanobodies, selectively neutralize vimentin's pro-tumorigenic effects. DNA and RNA aptamers disrupt vimentin-associated signaling pathways through their adaptable binding properties. Innovative approaches, such as vimentin-targeted vaccines and microRNAs (miRNAs), harness the immune system and post-transcriptional regulation to combat vimentin-expressing cancer cells. By dissecting vimentin inhibition strategies across these categories, this review provides a comprehensive overview of anti-vimentin therapeutics in cancer treatment. It underscores the growing recognition of vimentin as a pivotal therapeutic target in cancer and presents a diverse array of inhibitors, including antibodies, nanobodies, DNA and RNA aptamers, vaccines, and miRNAs. These multifaceted approaches hold substantial promise for tackling metastasis and overcoming drug resistance, collectively presenting new avenues for enhanced cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliye Tabatabaee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, 8174673461, Iran
| | - Behjat Nafari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, 8174673461, Iran
| | - Armin Farhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, 8174673461, Iran
| | - Amirali Hariri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, 8174673461, Iran
| | - Arezoo Khosravi
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istanbul Okan University, Istanbul, 34959, Türkiye
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34396, Türkiye.
- Department of Research Analytics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600 077, India.
| | - Mina Mirian
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, 8174673461, Iran.
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Rezaeianpour M, Mazidi SM, Nami R, Geramifar P, Mosayebnia M. Vimentin-targeted radiopeptide 99m Tc-HYNIC-(tricine/EDDA)-VNTANST: a promising drug for pulmonary fibrosis imaging. Nucl Med Commun 2023; 44:777-787. [PMID: 37395537 DOI: 10.1097/mnm.0000000000001724] [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: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal disease characterized by the accumulation of extracellular matrix. Because there is no effective treatment for advanced IPF to date, its early diagnosis can be critical. Vimentin is a cytoplasmic intermediate filament that is significantly up-regulated at the surface of fibrotic foci with a crucial role in fibrotic morphological changes. METHODS In the present study, VNTANST sequence as a known vimentin-targeting peptide was conjugated to hydrazinonicotinic acid (HYNIC) and labeled with 99m Tc. The stability test in saline and human plasma and log P determination were performed. Next, the biodistribution study and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) integrated with computed tomography (CT) scanning were performed in healthy and bleomycin-induced fibrosis mice models. RESULTS The 99m Tc-HYNIC-(tricine/EDDA)-VNTANST showed a hydrophilic nature (log P = -2.20 ± 0.38) and high radiochemical purity > 97% and specific activity (336 Ci/mmol). The radiopeptide was approximately 93% and 86% intact in saline and human plasma within 6 h, respectively. The radiopeptide was substantially accumulated in the pulmonary fibrotic lesions (test vs. control = 4.08 ± 0.08% injected dose per gram (ID/g) vs. 0.36 ± 0.01% ID/g at 90 min postinjection). SPECT-CT images in fibrosis-bearing mice also indicated the fibrotic foci and kidneys. CONCLUSION Because there is no available drug for the treatment of advanced pulmonary fibrosis, early diagnosis is the only chance. The 99m Tc-HYNIC-(tricine/EDDA)-VNTANST could be a potential tracer for SPECT imaging of pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maliheh Rezaeianpour
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Radiopharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
| | | | - Reza Nami
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz
| | - Parham Geramifar
- Research Center for Nuclear Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Mosayebnia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Radiopharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
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Goh KW, Stephen A, Wu YS, Sim MS, Batumalaie K, Gopinath SC, Guad RM, Kumar A, Sekar M, Subramaniyan V, Fuloria NK, Fuloria S, Velaga A, Sarker MMR. Molecular Targets of Aptamers in Gastrointestinal Cancers: Cancer Detection, Therapeutic Applications, and Associated Mechanisms. J Cancer 2023; 14:2491-2516. [PMID: 37670975 PMCID: PMC10475355 DOI: 10.7150/jca.85260] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are among the most common cancers that impact the global population, with high mortality and low survival rates after breast and lung cancers. Identifying useful molecular targets in GI cancers are crucial for improving diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment outcomes, however, limited by poor targeting and drug delivery system. Aptamers are often utilized in the field of biomarkers identification, targeting, and as a drug/inhibitor delivery cargo. Their natural and chemically modifiable binding capability, high affinity, and specificity are favored over antibodies and potential early diagnostic imaging and drug delivery applications. Studies have demonstrated the use of different aptamers as drug delivery agents and early molecular diagnostic and detection probes for treating cancers. This review aims to first describe aptamers' generation, characteristics, and classifications, also providing insights into their recent applications in the diagnosis and medical imaging, prognosis, and anticancer drug delivery system of GI cancers. Besides, it mainly discussed the relevant molecular targets and associated molecular mechanisms involved, as well as their applications for potential treatments for GI cancers. In addition, the current applications of aptamers in a clinical setting to treat GI cancers are deciphered. In conclusion, aptamers are multifunctional molecules that could be effectively used as an anticancer agent or drug delivery system for treating GI cancers and deserve further investigations for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khang Wen Goh
- Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, 71800 Nilai, Malaysia
| | - Annatasha Stephen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Yuan Seng Wu
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Selangor 47500, Malaysia
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Selangor 47500, Malaysia
| | - Maw Shin Sim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Kalaivani Batumalaie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Asia Metropolitan University, 81750 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Subash C.B. Gopinath
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering & Technology, Arau 02600, Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering, Kangar 01000, Micro System Technology, Centre of Excellence, Arau 02600, Pauh Campus, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Perlis, Malaysia
- Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), 01000 Kangar, Perlis, Malaysia
- Micro System Technology, Centre of Excellence (CoE), Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Pauh Campus, 02600 Arau, Perlis, Malaysia
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Faculty of Science and Information Technology, Daffodil International University, Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Rhanye Mac Guad
- Department of Biomedical Science and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Centre, Kansas City, Kansas 66103, United States
| | - Mahendran Sekar
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Vetriselvan Subramaniyan
- Department of Pharmacology, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, MONASH University, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Selangor 42610, Malaysia
| | - Neeraj Kumar Fuloria
- Centre of Excellence for Biomaterials Engineering & Faculty of Pharmacy, AIMST University, Bedong 08100, Malaysia
- Center for Transdisciplinary Research, Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, India
| | - Shivkanya Fuloria
- Faculty of Pharmacy, AIMST University, Semeling, Bedong 08100, Malaysia
| | - Appalaraju Velaga
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, MAHSA University, Selangor 42610, Malaysia
| | - Md. Moklesur Rahman Sarker
- Department of Pharmacy, State University of Bangladesh, 77 Satmasjid Road, Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
- Health Med Science Research Network, 3/1, Block F, Lalmatia, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
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Li Y, Tam WW, Yu Y, Zhuo Z, Xue Z, Tsang C, Qiao X, Wang X, Wang W, Li Y, Tu Y, Gao Y. The application of Aptamer in biomarker discovery. Biomark Res 2023; 11:70. [PMID: 37468977 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00510-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomarkers are detectable molecules that can reflect specific physiological states of cells, organs, and organisms and therefore be regarded as indicators for specific diseases. And the discovery of biomarkers plays an essential role in cancer management from the initial diagnosis to the final treatment regime. Practically, reliable clinical biomarkers are still limited, restricted by the suboptimal methods in biomarker discovery. Nucleic acid aptamers nowadays could be used as a powerful tool in the discovery of protein biomarkers. Nucleic acid aptamers are single-strand oligonucleotides that can specifically bind to various targets with high affinity. As artificial ssDNA or RNA, aptamers possess unique advantages compared to conventional antibodies. They can be flexible in design, low immunogenicity, relative chemical/thermos stability, as well as modifying convenience. Several SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) based methods have been generated recently to construct aptamers for discovering new biomarkers in different cell locations. Secretome SELEX-based aptamers selection can facilitate the identification of secreted protein biomarkers. The aptamers developed by cell-SELEX can be used to unveil those biomarkers presented on the cell surface. The aptamers from tissue-SELEX could target intracellular biomarkers. And as a multiplexed protein biomarker detection technology, aptamer-based SOMAScan can analyze thousands of proteins in a single run. In this review, we will introduce the principle and workflow of variations of SELEX-based methods, including secretome SELEX, ADAPT, Cell-SELEX and tissue SELEX. Another powerful proteome analyzing tool, SOMAScan, will also be covered. In the second half of this review, how these methods accelerate biomarker discovery in various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongshu Li
- Center for Advanced Measurement Science, National Institute of Metrology, Beijing, China.
- Shenzhen Institute for Technology Innovation, National Institute of Metrology, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Winnie Wailing Tam
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases (TMBJ), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases (TMBJ), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhenjian Zhuo
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomic, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, China
- Laboratory Animal Center, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Zhichao Xue
- Shenzhen Institute for Technology Innovation, National Institute of Metrology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chiman Tsang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaoting Qiao
- Center for Advanced Measurement Science, National Institute of Metrology, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaokang Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weijing Wang
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yongyi Li
- Laboratory Animal Center, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yanyang Tu
- Research Center, Huizhou Central People's Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Huizhou City, China.
| | - Yunhua Gao
- Center for Advanced Measurement Science, National Institute of Metrology, Beijing, China.
- Shenzhen Institute for Technology Innovation, National Institute of Metrology, Shenzhen, China.
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Uddin N, Binzel DW, Shu D, Fu TM, Guo P. Targeted delivery of RNAi to cancer cells using RNA-ligand displaying exosome. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:1383-1399. [PMID: 37139430 PMCID: PMC10149909 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosome is an excellent vesicle for in vivo delivery of therapeutics, including RNAi and chemical drugs. The extremely high efficiency in cancer regression can partly be attributed to its fusion mechanism in delivering therapeutics to cytosol without endosome trapping. However, being composed of a lipid-bilayer membrane without specific recognition capacity for aimed-cells, the entry into nonspecific cells can lead to potential side-effects and toxicity. Applying engineering approaches for targeting-capacity to deliver therapeutics to specific cells is desirable. Techniques with chemical modification in vitro and genetic engineering in cells have been reported to decorate exosomes with targeting ligands. RNA nanoparticles have been used to harbor tumor-specific ligands displayed on exosome surface. The negative charge reduces nonspecific binding to vital cells with negatively charged lipid-membrane due to the electrostatic repulsion, thus lowering the side-effect and toxicity. In this review, we focus on the uniqueness of RNA nanoparticles for exosome surface display of chemical ligands, small peptides or RNA aptamers, for specific cancer targeting to deliver anticancer therapeutics, highlighting recent advances in targeted delivery of siRNA and miRNA that overcomes the previous RNAi delivery roadblocks. Proper understanding of exosome engineering with RNA nanotechnology promises efficient therapies for a wide range of cancer subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasir Uddin
- Center for RNA Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine, Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- James Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Daniel W. Binzel
- Center for RNA Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine, Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- James Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Dan Shu
- Center for RNA Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine, Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- James Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Tian-Min Fu
- Department of Biological Chemistry & Pharmacology, College of Medicine, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Peixuan Guo
- Center for RNA Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine, Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- James Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Alexandrova A, Lomakina M. How does plasticity of migration help tumor cells to avoid treatment: Cytoskeletal regulators and potential markers. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:962652. [PMID: 36278174 PMCID: PMC9582651 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.962652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor shrinkage as a result of antitumor therapy is not the only and sufficient indicator of treatment success. Cancer progression leads to dissemination of tumor cells and formation of metastases - secondary tumor lesions in distant organs. Metastasis is associated with acquisition of mobile phenotype by tumor cells as a result of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and further cell migration based on cytoskeleton reorganization. The main mechanisms of individual cell migration are either mesenchymal, which depends on the activity of small GTPase Rac, actin polymerization, formation of adhesions with extracellular matrix and activity of proteolytic enzymes or amoeboid, which is based on the increase in intracellular pressure caused by the enhancement of actin cortex contractility regulated by Rho-ROCK-MLCKII pathway, and does not depend on the formation of adhesive structures with the matrix, nor on the activity of proteases. The ability of tumor cells to switch from one motility mode to another depending on cell context and environmental conditions, termed migratory plasticity, contributes to the efficiency of dissemination and often allows the cells to avoid the applied treatment. The search for new therapeutic targets among cytoskeletal proteins offers an opportunity to directly influence cell migration. For successful treatment it is important to assess the likelihood of migratory plasticity in a particular tumor. Therefore, the search for specific markers that can indicate a high probability of migratory plasticity is very important.
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Dai H, Abdullah R, Wu X, Li F, Ma Y, Lu A, Zhang G. Pancreatic Cancer: Nucleic Acid Drug Discovery and Targeted Therapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:855474. [PMID: 35652096 PMCID: PMC9149368 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.855474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most lethal cancers with an almost 10% 5-year survival rate. Because PC is implicated in high heterogeneity, desmoplastic tumor-microenvironment, and inefficient drug-penetration, the chemotherapeutic strategy currently recommended for the treatment of PC has limited clinical benefit. Nucleic acid-based targeting therapies have become strong competitors in the realm of drug discovery and targeted therapy. A vast evidence has demonstrated that antibody-based or alternatively aptamer-based strategy largely contributed to the elevated drug accumulation in tumors with reduced systematic cytotoxicity. This review describes the advanced progress of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), messenger RNA (mRNAs), and aptamer-drug conjugates (ApDCs) in the treatment of PC, revealing the bright application and development direction in PC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Dai
- 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
| | - Razack Abdullah
- 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 for the Advancement of Chinese medicine (IACM) .Ltd, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Wu
- 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
| | - Fangfei Li
- 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
| | - 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
| | - 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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Qian S, Chang D, He S, Li Y. Aptamers from random sequence space: Accomplishments, gaps and future considerations. Anal Chim Acta 2022; 1196:339511. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2022.339511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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11
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Lorenzo-Gómez R, Miranda-Castro R, de Los Toyos JR, de-Los-Santos-Álvarez N, Lobo-Castañón MJ. Aptamers targeting a tumor-associated extracellular matrix component: The human mature collagen XIα1. Anal Chim Acta 2022; 1189:339206. [PMID: 34815029 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2021.339206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays an essential role in tumor progression and invasion through its continuous remodeling. The growth of most carcinomas is associated with an excessive collagen deposition that provides the proper environment for tumor development and chemoresistance. The α1 chain of a minor human collagen, type XI, is overexpressed in some tumor stroma, but not found in normal stroma. To test the clinical utility of this collagen as a cancer biomarker, specific receptors are needed. Available antibodies do not show enough selectivity or are directed toward the propeptide region that is cleaved when the protein is released to the ECM. Here we show the selection of an aptamer for the specific C-telopeptide region using a 16-mer peptide as the target for the SELEX. The aptamer selected with a Kd of ∼25 nM was able to capture the collagen XI from cell lysates. It was also used for target detection in a mixed antibody-aptamer sandwich assay showing it can be useful for diagnostic purposes in biological fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramón Lorenzo-Gómez
- Departamento de Química Física y Analítica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de Oviedo, Av. Julián Clavería 8, 33006, Oviedo, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias, Avenida de Roma, 33011, Oviedo, Spain.
| | - Rebeca Miranda-Castro
- Departamento de Química Física y Analítica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de Oviedo, Av. Julián Clavería 8, 33006, Oviedo, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias, Avenida de Roma, 33011, Oviedo, Spain.
| | - Juan R de Los Toyos
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias, Avenida de Roma, 33011, Oviedo, Spain; Departamento de Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud, Universidad de Oviedo, Av. Julián Clavería 6, 33006, Oviedo, Spain.
| | - Noemí de-Los-Santos-Álvarez
- Departamento de Química Física y Analítica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de Oviedo, Av. Julián Clavería 8, 33006, Oviedo, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias, Avenida de Roma, 33011, Oviedo, Spain.
| | - María Jesús Lobo-Castañón
- Departamento de Química Física y Analítica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de Oviedo, Av. Julián Clavería 8, 33006, Oviedo, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias, Avenida de Roma, 33011, Oviedo, Spain.
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12
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Shigdar S, Agnello L, Fedele M, Camorani S, Cerchia L. Profiling Cancer Cells by Cell-SELEX: Use of Aptamers for Discovery of Actionable Biomarkers and Therapeutic Applications Thereof. Pharmaceutics 2021; 14:28. [PMID: 35056924 PMCID: PMC8781458 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of tumor cell-specific surface markers is a key step towards personalized cancer medicine, allowing early assessment and accurate diagnosis, and development of efficacious targeted therapies. Despite significant efforts, currently the spectrum of cell membrane targets associated with approved treatments is still limited, causing an inability to treat a large number of cancers. What mainly limits the number of ideal clinical biomarkers is the high complexity and heterogeneity of several human cancers and still-limited methods for molecular profiling of specific cancer types. Thanks to the simplicity, versatility and effectiveness of its application, cell-SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) technology is a valid complement to the present strategies for biomarkers' discovery. We and other researchers worldwide are attempting to apply cell-SELEX to the generation of oligonucleotide aptamers as tools for both identifying new cancer biomarkers and targeting them by innovative therapeutic strategies. In this review, we discuss the potential of cell-SELEX for increasing the currently limited repertoire of actionable cancer cell-surface biomarkers and focus on the use of the selected aptamers as components of innovative conjugates and nano-formulations for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Shigdar
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia;
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
| | - Lisa Agnello
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, S. Andrea Delle Dame-Via L. De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Monica Fedele
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Simona Camorani
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Laura Cerchia
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, CNR, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.A.); (M.F.); (S.C.)
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13
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Marshall ML, Wagstaff KM. Internalized Functional DNA Aptamers as Alternative Cancer Therapies. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1115. [PMID: 32848740 PMCID: PMC7396948 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite major advances, cancer remains one of the largest burdens of disease worldwide. One reason behind this is that killing tumor cells without affecting healthy surrounding tissue remains a largely elusive prospect, despite the widespread availability of cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents. To meet these modern healthcare requirements, it is essential to develop precision therapeutics that minimise off-target side-effects for various cancer types. To this end, highly specific molecular targeting agents against cancer are of great interest. These agents may work by targeting intracellular signalling pathways following receptor binding, or via internalization and targeting to specific subcellular compartments. DNA aptamers represent a promising molecular tool in this arena that can be used for both specific cell surface targeting and subsequent internalization and can also elicit a functional effect upon internalization. This review examines various cancer targeting cell-internalizing aptamers, with a particular focus towards functional aptamers that do not require additional conjugation to nanoparticles or small molecules to elicit a biological response. With a deeper understanding and precise exploitation of cancer specific molecular pathways, functional intracellular DNA aptamers may be a powerful step towards more widespread development of precision therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan L Marshall
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Kylie M Wagstaff
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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14
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Aptamers: a novel targeted theranostic platform for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Radiat Oncol 2020; 15:189. [PMID: 32758252 PMCID: PMC7409417 DOI: 10.1186/s13014-020-01624-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely challenging disease with a high mortality rate and a short overall survival time. The poor prognosis can be explained by aggressive tumor growth, late diagnosis, and therapy resistance. Consistent efforts have been made focusing on early tumor detection and novel drug development. Various strategies aim at increasing target specificity or local enrichment of chemotherapeutics as well as imaging agents in tumor tissue. Aptamers have the potential to provide early detection and permit anti-cancer therapy with significantly reduced side effects. These molecules are in-vitro selected single-stranded oligonucleotides that form stable three-dimensional structures. They are capable of binding to a variety of molecular targets with high affinity and specificity. Several properties such as high binding affinity, the in vitro chemical process of selection, a variety of chemical modifications of molecular platforms for diverse function, non-immunoreactivity, modification of bioavailability, and manipulation of pharmacokinetics make aptamers attractive targets compared to conventional cell-specific ligands. To explore the potential of aptamers for early diagnosis and targeted therapy of PDAC - as single agents and in combination with radiotherapy - we summarize the generation process of aptamers and their application as biosensors, biomarker detection tools, targeted imaging tracers, and drug-delivery carriers. We are furthermore discussing the current implementation aptamers in clinical trials, their limitations and possible future utilization.
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15
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Ramos I, Stamatakis K, Oeste CL, Pérez-Sala D. Vimentin as a Multifaceted Player and Potential Therapeutic Target in Viral Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4675. [PMID: 32630064 PMCID: PMC7370124 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21134675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Vimentin is an intermediate filament protein that plays key roles in integration of cytoskeletal functions, and therefore in basic cellular processes such as cell division and migration. Consequently, vimentin has complex implications in pathophysiology. Vimentin is required for a proper immune response, but it can also act as an autoantigen in autoimmune diseases or as a damage signal. Although vimentin is a predominantly cytoplasmic protein, it can also appear at extracellular locations, either in a secreted form or at the surface of numerous cell types, often in relation to cell activation, inflammation, injury or senescence. Cell surface targeting of vimentin appears to associate with the occurrence of certain posttranslational modifications, such as phosphorylation and/or oxidative damage. At the cell surface, vimentin can act as a receptor for bacterial and viral pathogens. Indeed, vimentin has been shown to play important roles in virus attachment and entry of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus (SARS-CoV), dengue and encephalitis viruses, among others. Moreover, the presence of vimentin in specific virus-targeted cells and its induction by proinflammatory cytokines and tissue damage contribute to its implication in viral infection. Here, we recapitulate some of the pathophysiological implications of vimentin, including the involvement of cell surface vimentin in interaction with pathogens, with a special focus on its role as a cellular receptor or co-receptor for viruses. In addition, we provide a perspective on approaches to target vimentin, including antibodies or chemical agents that could modulate these interactions to potentially interfere with viral pathogenesis, which could be useful when multi-target antiviral strategies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Ramos
- Department of Neurology and Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assays, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Konstantinos Stamatakis
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, UAM-CSIC. Nicolás Cabrera, 1, Campus de la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (K.S.); (C.L.O.)
| | - Clara L. Oeste
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, UAM-CSIC. Nicolás Cabrera, 1, Campus de la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (K.S.); (C.L.O.)
| | - Dolores Pérez-Sala
- Department of Structural and Chemical Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu, 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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16
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Yoon S, Li H, Quintanar L, Armstrong B, Rossi JJ. Uncovering Differently Expressed Markers and Heterogeneity on Human Pancreatic Cancer. Transl Oncol 2020; 13:100749. [PMID: 32143178 PMCID: PMC7056725 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2020.100749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Discovery of biomarkers is critical to understand tumor heterogeneity and microenvironment. To determine differently expressed makers on cancer tissue for comprehensive profiling, the multiplexed tissue imaging mass cytometer (IMC) which uniquely combines time-of-flight mass spectrometry with metal-labeling technology to enable breakthrough discovery on single cell level was employed to investigate the expression of seven markers related to the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition [α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), vimentin, collagen I, cytokeratin 7, pan-keratin], tumor proliferation (Ki-67), and human leucocyte antigen (HLA-DR) on human pancreatic cancer tissue. The difference was analyzed using bioinformatic tools. We observed the high expression of α-SMA, vimentin, collagen I, and Ki-67 on grade I but not on grade III. HLA-DR was highly expressed on grade I/III but not on grade II. Overall, the expression of markers has elucidated the heterogeneity intratumors. Additionally, to identify biomarkers on pancreatic cancer cells by blind systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX), aptamer pull-down assay and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry were used. Mortalin was identified as a potential a prognostic marker of pancreatic cancer. Our studies demonstrate that the IMC and blind SELEX might be implemented to discover biomarkers which can be used to better understand tumor biology and biomedical research applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorah Yoon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, 91010, USA
| | - Haiqing Li
- Research Informatics, City of Hope, Duarte, California, 91010, USA
| | - Loren Quintanar
- Light Microscopy core, City of Hope, Duarte, California, 91010, USA
| | - Brian Armstrong
- Light Microscopy core, City of Hope, Duarte, California, 91010, USA
| | - John J Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, 91010, USA.
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17
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Strouhalova K, Přechová M, Gandalovičová A, Brábek J, Gregor M, Rosel D. Vimentin Intermediate Filaments as Potential Target for Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E184. [PMID: 31940801 PMCID: PMC7017239 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Intermediate filaments constitute the third component of the cellular skeleton. Unlike actin and microtubule cytoskeletons, the intermediate filaments are composed of a wide variety of structurally related proteins showing distinct expression patterns in tissues and cell types. Changes in the expression patterns of intermediate filaments are often associated with cancer progression; in particular with phenotypes leading to increased cellular migration and invasion. In this review we will describe the role of vimentin intermediate filaments in cancer cell migration, cell adhesion structures, and metastasis formation. The potential for targeting vimentin in cancer treatment and the development of drugs targeting vimentin will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Strouhalova
- Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12843 Prague, Czech Republic; (K.S.); (A.G.); (J.B.)
- Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University (BIOCEV), Průmyslová 595, 25242 Vestec u Prahy, Czech Republic
| | - Magdalena Přechová
- Laboratory of Integrative Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Aneta Gandalovičová
- Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12843 Prague, Czech Republic; (K.S.); (A.G.); (J.B.)
- Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University (BIOCEV), Průmyslová 595, 25242 Vestec u Prahy, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Brábek
- Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12843 Prague, Czech Republic; (K.S.); (A.G.); (J.B.)
- Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University (BIOCEV), Průmyslová 595, 25242 Vestec u Prahy, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Gregor
- Laboratory of Integrative Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Daniel Rosel
- Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12843 Prague, Czech Republic; (K.S.); (A.G.); (J.B.)
- Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University (BIOCEV), Průmyslová 595, 25242 Vestec u Prahy, Czech Republic
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18
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Gao G, Liu C, Jain S, Li D, Wang H, Zhao Y, Liu J. Potential use of aptamers for diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer. J Drug Target 2019; 27:853-865. [PMID: 30596288 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2018.1564924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is highly malignant with a low 5-year survival rate. PC currently does not have good early diagnostic markers and responses poorly to chemotherapeutic drugs. The search for better biomarkers and developing more effective chemotherapy are important ways to improve the healthcare of PC patients. Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acids with high binding affinity and specificity to target molecules. Many aptamers against different forms of cancer including PC have been selected for both diagnostic and therapeutic use. Aptamers can work as ligands to distinguish tumour cells from normal cells. Using cells as selection targets, the obtained aptamers have been used to discover new cancer biomarkers after identification of the binding target. Aptamers have been shown to have antagonists effect on cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. In addition, aptamers have been used as carriers to deliver therapeutic agents to selectively kill PC cells. This review summarises the potential use of aptamers in the diagnosis and treatment of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Gao
- a Faculty of Laboratory Medicine , Xiangya Medical College, Central South University , Changsha , China.,b Department of Clinical Laboratory , Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | - Can Liu
- a Faculty of Laboratory Medicine , Xiangya Medical College, Central South University , Changsha , China.,b Department of Clinical Laboratory , Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | - Sona Jain
- c Department of Chemistry , Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo , Waterloo , Canada
| | - Dai Li
- c Department of Chemistry , Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo , Waterloo , Canada.,d Department of Pharmacology , Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | - Hai Wang
- a Faculty of Laboratory Medicine , Xiangya Medical College, Central South University , Changsha , China.,b Department of Clinical Laboratory , Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | - Yongxin Zhao
- a Faculty of Laboratory Medicine , Xiangya Medical College, Central South University , Changsha , China.,b Department of Clinical Laboratory , Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , Changsha , China
| | - Juewen Liu
- c Department of Chemistry , Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo , Waterloo , Canada
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Yoon S, Wu X, Armstrong B, Habib N, Rossi JJ. An RNA Aptamer Targeting the Receptor Tyrosine Kinase PDGFRα Induces Anti-tumor Effects through STAT3 and p53 in Glioblastoma. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2018; 14:131-141. [PMID: 30594071 PMCID: PMC6307106 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Human glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive malignancy of the CNS, with less than 5% survival. Despite great efforts to find effective therapeutics, current options remain very limited. To develop a targeted cancer therapeutic, we selected RNA aptamers against platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα), which is a receptor tyrosine kinase. One RNA aptamer (PDR3) with high affinity (0.25 nM) showed PDGFRα specificity and was internalized in U251-MG cells. Following treatment with the PDR3 aptamer, expression of the transcription factor STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) was inhibited, whereas the expression of the histone demethylase JMJD3 and the tumor suppressor p53 were upregulated. PDR3 also upregulated serine phosphorylation of p53, which subsequently mediated apoptosis through the death receptors: tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand receptors 1/2 (TRAIL-R1/R2), Fas-associated via death domain (FADD), and Fas. PDR3 significantly decreased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, translocation of PDR3 into the nucleus induced hypomethylation at the promoters of cyclin D2. To assess the feasibility of targeted delivery, we conjugated PDR3 aptamer with STAT3-siRNA for a chimera. The PDR3-siSTAT3 chimera successfully inhibited the expression of target genes and showed significant inhibition of cell viability. In summary, our results show that well-tailored RNA aptamers targeting the PDGFRα-STAT3 axis have the potential to act as anti-cancer therapeutics in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorah Yoon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Xiwei Wu
- Integrative Genomic Core, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | | | - Nagy Habib
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - John J Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
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20
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Oligonucleotide aptamers against tyrosine kinase receptors: Prospect for anticancer applications. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2018; 1869:263-277. [PMID: 29574128 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2018.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) play crucial roles in cancer cell proliferation, survival, migration and differentiation. Area of intense research is searching for effective anticancer therapies targeting these receptors and, to date, several monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors have entered the clinic. However, some of these drugs show limited efficacy and give rise to acquired resistance. Emerging highly selective compounds for anticancer therapy are oligonucleotide aptamers that interact with their targets by recognizing a specific three-dimensional structure. Because of their nucleic acid nature, the rational design of advanced strategies to manipulate aptamers for both diagnostic and therapeutic applications is greatly simplified over antibodies. In this manuscript, we will provide a comprehensive overview of oligonucleotide aptamers as next generation strategies to efficiently target RTKs in human cancers.
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Kim CM, Smolke CD. Biomedical applications of RNA-based devices. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2017; 4:106-115. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We will describe recently discovered smart aptamers with tumor specificity, with an emphasis on targeted delivery of novel therapeutic molecules, cancer-specific biomarkers, and immunotherapy. RECENT FINDINGS The development of cancer-specific aptamers has facilitated targeted delivery of potent therapeutic molecules to cancer cells without harming nontumoral cells. This specificity also makes it possible to discover novel cancer biomarkers. Furthermore, alternative immune-checkpoint blockade aptamers have been developed for combinational immunotherapy. SUMMARY Aptamers selected against cancer cells show cancer specificity, which has great potential for targeting. First, functionalizing targeted aptamers with therapeutic molecule payloads (e.g., small activating RNAs, antimitotic drugs, therapeutic antibodies, and peptides) facilitates successful delivery into cancer cells. This approach greatly improves the therapeutic index by minimizing side-effects in nontumoral cells. Second, cancer-specific proteins have been identified as cancer biomarkers through in-vitro and in-vivo selection, aptamer pull-down assays, and mass spectrometry. These newly discovered biomarkers improve therapeutic intervention and diagnostic specificity. In addition, the development of alternative immune-checkpoint blockade aptamers is suggested for use in combinational immunotherapeutic with current immune blockade regimens, to reduce the resistance and exhaustion of T cells in clinical trials. VIDEO ABSTRACT: http://links.lww.com/COON/A21.
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23
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Catuogno S, Esposito CL. Aptamer Cell-Based Selection: Overview and Advances. Biomedicines 2017; 5:biomedicines5030049. [PMID: 28805744 PMCID: PMC5618307 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines5030049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are high affinity single-stranded DNA/RNA molecules, produced by a combinatorial procedure named SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential enrichment), that are emerging as promising diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Among selection strategies, procedures using living cells as complex targets (referred as "cell-SELEX") have been developed as an effective mean to generate aptamers for heavily modified cell surface proteins, assuring the binding of the target in its native conformation. Here we give an up-to-date overview on cell-SELEX technology, discussing the most recent advances with a particular focus on cancer cell targeting. Examples of the different protocol applications and post-SELEX strategies will be briefly outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Catuogno
- Istituto di Endocrinologia ed Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", CNR, Naples 80100, Italy.
| | - Carla Lucia Esposito
- Istituto di Endocrinologia ed Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", CNR, Naples 80100, Italy.
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