Conjugation of VEGFR1/R2-targeting peptide with gold nanoparticles to enhance antiangiogenic and antitumoral activity

Novel Gd-DTPA-peptide for targeted breast tumor magnetic resonance imaging

The prevalence of breast cancer underscores the imperative for early diagnosis in guiding treatment decisions. This study introduces a novel contrast agent, Gd-DTPA-VGB3, derived from the peptide VGB3 targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR1) and VEGFR2, to enhance the contrast of conventional drug Magnevist in breast tumor MRI. The MRI contrast agent was synthesized on rink amide resin via Fmoc strategy, incorporating amino acids, and coupling to diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA). Gadolinium (Gd)-DTPA-VGB3 displayed specific binding to VEGFR1/2 in a displacement binding assay. Gd-DTPA-VGB3 exhibited minimal cytotoxicity to normal MCF-10 cells while inhibiting 4T1 mammary carcinoma cell proliferation. Compared to Magnevist, Gd-DTPA-VGB3 demonstrated a 2.8-fold increase in contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) (355 vs. 125). Gd-DTPA-VGB3 exhibited enhanced accumulation in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice, resulting in significant signal intensity improvement. The findings highlight Gd-DTPA-VGB3's specific binding to VEGFRs, substantiating its potential as a candidate for enhancing MRI contrast in breast cancer diagnostics.

Noble Metal Nanoparticle-Based Photothermal Therapy: Development and Application in Effective Cancer Therapy

Photothermal therapy (PTT) is a promising cancer therapy modality with significant advantages such as precise targeting, convenient drug delivery, better efficacy, and minimal adverse effects. Photothermal therapy effectively absorbs the photothermal transducers in the near-infrared region (NIR), which induces the photothermal effect to work. Although PTT has a better role in tumor therapy, it also suffers from low photothermal conversion efficiency, biosafety, and incomplete tumor elimination. Therefore, the use of nanomaterials themselves as photosensitizers, the targeted modification of nanomaterials to improve targeting efficiency, or the combined use of nanomaterials with other therapies can improve the therapeutic effects and reduce side effects. Notably, noble metal nanomaterials have attracted much attention in PTT because they have strong surface plasmon resonance and an effective absorbance light at specific near-infrared wavelengths. Therefore, they can be used as excellent photosensitizers to mediate photothermal conversion and improve its efficiency. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the key role played by noble metal nanomaterials in tumor photothermal therapy. It also describes the major challenges encountered during the implementation of photothermal therapy.

Targeted Delivery of Diphtheria Toxin into VEGFR1/VEGFR2 Overexpressing Cells Induces Anti-angiogenesis Activity

BACKGROUND

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptors (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2) are tyrosine kinase receptors expressed on endothelial cells and tumor vessels and play an important role in angiogenesis. In this study, three repeats of VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 binding peptide (VGB3) were genetically fused to the truncated diphtheria toxin (TDT), and its in vitro activity was evaluated.

METHODS

The recombinant construct (TDT-triVGB3) was expressed in bacteria cells and purified with nickel affinity chromatography. The binding capacity and affinity of TDT-triVGB3 were evaluated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The inhibitory activity of TDT-triVGB3 on viability, migration, and tube formation of human endothelial cells was evaluated using MTT, migration, and tube formation assays.

RESULTS

TDT-triVGB3 selectively detected VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 with high affinity in an enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay and significantly inhibited viability, migration, and tube formation of human endothelial cells.

CONCLUSION

The developed TDT-triVGB3 is potentially a novel agent for targeting VEGFR1/ VEGFR2 over-expressing cancer cells.

Achieving enhanced sensitivity and accuracy in carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) detection as an indicator of cancer monitoring using thionine/chitosan/graphene oxide nanocomposite-modified electrochemical immunosensor

The current study has focused on electrochemical immunosensing of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) employing an immobilized antibody on a thionine, chitosan, or graphene oxide nanocomposite modified glassy carbon electrode (anti-CEA/THi-CS-GO/GCE) as an indicator of cancer monitoring. THi-CS-GO nanocomposites were made using ultrasonication, and analyses of their morphology and crystal structure using SEM, FTIR, and XRD showed that thionine and chitosan molecules were intercalated with stacking interactions with both the top and bottom of GO nanosheets. Electrochemical experiments revealed anti-CEA, THi-CS-GO/GCE to have exceptional sensitivity and selectivity towards CEA compounds. The detection limit value was established to be 0.8 pg/mL when it was discovered that variations in the decrease peak current were directly proportional to the logarithm concentration of CEA over a wide range from 10-3 to 104 ng/mL. Results of testing the immunosensor's application capability for detecting CEA in a sample of human serum show that ELISA and DPV results are very congruent. The produced immunosensor demonstrated adequate immunosensor precision in determining CEA in prepared genuine samples of human serum and clinical applications.

Nano-composite system of traditional Chinese medicine for ocular applications: molecular docking and three-dimensional modeling insight for intelligent drug evaluation

The absorption of drugs was impeded in the posterior part of the eye due to the special structure. In addition, it was crucial to comprehend transport laws of molecules in ocular drug delivery for designing effective strategies. However, the current quality evaluation methods of the eye were backward and lack of dynamic monitoring of drug processes in vivo. Herein, nano-drug delivery system and three-dimensional (3D) model were combined to overcome the problems of low bioavailability and diffusion law. The model drugs were screened by molecular docking. The flexible nano-liposome (FNL) and temperature-sensitive gel (TSG) composite formulation was characterized through comprehensive evaluation. COMSOL software was utilized to build 3D eyeball to predict the bioavailability of drugs. The size of the preparation was about 98.34 nm which is relatively optimal for the enhanced permeability of the eyes. The formulation showed a stronger safety and non-irritant. The pharmacokinetics results of aqueous humor showed that the AUC of two drugs in this system increased by 3.79 and 3.94 times, respectively. The results of 3D calculation model proved that the concentrations of drugs reaching the retina were 1.90×10-5 mol/m3 and 6.37×10-6 mol/m3. In conclusion, the FNL-TSG markedly improved the bioavailability of multiple components in the eye. More importantly, a simplified 3D model was developed to preliminarily forecast the bioavailability of the retina after drug infusion, providing technical support for the accurate evaluation of ocular drug delivery. It provided new pattern for the development of intelligent versatile ophthalmic preparations.

The Refined Application and Evolution of Nanotechnology in Enhancing Radiosensitivity During Radiotherapy: Transitioning from Gold Nanoparticles to Multifunctional Nanomaterials

Radiotherapy is a pivotal method for treating malignant tumors, and enhancing the therapeutic gain ratio of radiotherapy through physical techniques is the direction of modern precision radiotherapy. Due to the inherent physical properties of high-energy radiation, enhancing the therapeutic gain ratio of radiotherapy through radiophysical techniques inevitably encounters challenges. The combination of hyperthermia and radiotherapy can enhance the radiosensitivity of tumor cells, reduce their radioresistance, and holds significant clinical utility in radiotherapy. Multifunctional nanomaterials with excellent biocompatibility and safety have garnered widespread attention in tumor hyperthermia research, demonstrating promising potential. Utilizing nanotechnology as a sensitizing carrier in conjunction with radiotherapy, and high atomic number nanomaterials can also serve independently as radiosensitizing carriers. This synergy between tumor hyperthermia and radiotherapy may overcome many challenges currently limiting tumor radiotherapy, offering new opportunities for its further advancement. In recent years, the continuous progress in the synthesis and design of novel nanomaterials will propel the future development of medical imaging and cancer treatment. This article summarizes the radiosensitizing mechanisms and effects based on gold nanotechnology and provides an overview of the advancements of other nanoparticles (such as bismuth-based nanomaterials, magnetic nanomaterials, selenium nanomaterials, etc.) in the process of radiation therapy.

Human milk-derived MANF, as an immuno-nutritional factor, maintains the intestinal epithelial barrier and protects against necrotizing enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a leading cause of death in preterm infants. Compared to formula milk, breastfeeding protects against NEC. However, the composition of breast milk is quite complicated, and many immunological compositions remain unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the concentration of a secreted protein, Mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor (MANF), in breastmilk and evaluate its immune-regulatory function in protecting the intestinal epithelial barrier. Our data indicated that MANF was secreted in human milk but could not be detected in infant formulas. More importantly, the amount of MANF in colostrum was higher than that in mature milk. We also clarified that MANF was mainly expressed in intestinal macrophages and was capable of inducing apoptosis and decreasing the inflammation of pro-inflammatory macrophages in both NEC intestinal tissues and BMDMs. Mechanismly, MANF protein significantly inhibited the apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells and protected epithelial tight junctions through downregulation of the NF-κB pathway in pro-inflammatory macrophages. These results reveal the crucial function of human milk-derived MANF in intestinal macrophages, which contributes to downregulating the intestinal inflammatory response and protecting the homeostasis of intestinal epithelial cells. Our study not only demonstrates a potential mechanism underlying breastfeeding protective effects in NEC but also, more importantly, enables clinical translation, facilitating new strategies for the development of nutritional interventions in the prevention of NEC.

B7H3 targeting gold nanocage pH-sensitive conjugates for precise and synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy against NSCLC

BACKGROUND

The combination of drug delivery with immune checkpoint targeting has been extensively studied in cancer therapy. However, the clinical benefit for patients from this strategy is still limited. B7 homolog 3 protein (B7-H3), also known as CD276 (B7-H3/CD276), is a promising therapeutic target for anti-cancer treatment. It is widely overexpressed on the surface of malignant cells and tumor vasculature, and its overexpression is associated with poor prognosis. Herein, we report B7H3 targeting doxorubicin (Dox)-conjugated gold nanocages (B7H3/Dox@GNCs) with pH-responsive drug release as a selective, precise, and synergistic chemotherapy-photothermal therapy agent against non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

RESULTS

In vitro, B7H3/Dox@GNCs exhibited a responsive release of Dox in the tumor acidic microenvironment. We also demonstrated enhanced intracellular uptake, induced cell cycle arrest, and increased apoptosis in B7H3 overexpressing NSCLC cells. In xenograft tumor models, B7H3/Dox@GNCs exhibited tumor tissue targeting and sustained drug release in response to the acidic environment. Wherein they synchronously destroyed B7H3 positive tumor cells, tumor-associated vasculature, and stromal fibroblasts.

CONCLUSION

This study presents a dual-compartment targeted B7H3 multifunctional gold conjugate system that can precisely control Dox exposure in a spatio-temporal manner without evident toxicity and suggests a general strategy for synergistic therapy against NSCLC.

Transition metals in angiogenesis - A narrative review

The aim of this paper is to offer a narrative review of the literature regarding the influence of transition metals on angiogenesis, excluding lanthanides and actinides. To our knowledge there are not any reviews up to date offering such a summary, which inclined us to write this paper. Angiogenesis describes the process of blood vessel formation, which is an essential requirement for human growth and development. When the complex interplay between pro- and antiangiogenic mediators falls out of balance, angiogenesis can quickly become harmful. As it is so fundamental, both its inhibition and enhancement take part in various diseases, making it a target for therapeutic treatments. Current methods come with limitations, therefore, novel agents are constantly being researched, with metal agents offering promising results. Various transition metals have already been investigated in-depth, with studies indicating both pro- and antiangiogenic properties, respectively. The transition metals are being applied in various formulations, such as nanoparticles, complexes, or scaffold materials. Albeit the increasing attention this field is receiving, there remain many unanswered questions, mostly regarding the molecular mechanisms behind the observed effects. Notably, approximately half of all the transition metals have not yet been investigated regarding potential angiogenic effects. Considering the promising results which have already been established, it should be of great interest to begin investigating the remaining elements whilst also further analyzing the established effects.

A VEGFB-Based Peptidomimetic Inhibits VEGFR2-Mediated PI3K/Akt/mTOR and PLCγ/ERK Signaling and Elicits Apoptotic, Antiangiogenic, and Antitumor Activities

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) mediates VEGFA signaling mainly through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and PLCγ/ERK1/2 pathways. Here we unveil a peptidomimetic (VGB3) based on the interaction between VEGFB and VEGFR1 that unexpectedly binds and neutralizes VEGFR2. Investigation of the cyclic and linear structures of VGB3 (named C-VGB3 and L-VGB3, respectively) using receptor binding and cell proliferation assays, molecular docking, and evaluation of antiangiogenic and antitumor activities in the 4T1 mouse mammary carcinoma tumor (MCT) model showed that loop formation is essential for peptide functionality. C-VGB3 inhibited proliferation and tubulogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), accounting for the abrogation of VEGFR2, p-VEGFR2 and, subsequently, PI3K/AKT/mTOR and PLCγ/ERK1/2 pathways. In 4T1 MCT cells, C-VGB3 inhibited cell proliferation, VEGFR2 expression and phosphorylation, the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, FAK/Paxillin, and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition cascade. The apoptotic effects of C-VGB3 on HUVE and 4T1 MCT cells were inferred from annexin-PI and TUNEL staining and activation of P53, caspase-3, caspase-7, and PARP1, which mechanistically occurred through the intrinsic pathway mediated by Bcl2 family members, cytochrome c, Apaf-1 and caspase-9, and extrinsic pathway via death receptors and caspase-8. These data indicate that binding regions shared by VEGF family members may be important in developing novel pan-VEGFR inhibitors that are highly relevant in the pathogenesis of angiogenesis-related diseases.

Structure-Based Design of Peptides Targeting VEGF/VEGFRs

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors (VEGFRs) play a main role in the regulation of angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. Furthermore, they are implicated in the onset of several diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, degenerative eye conditions, tumor growth, ulcers and ischemia. Therefore, molecules able to target the VEGF and its receptors are of great pharmaceutical interest. Several types of molecules have been reported so far. In this review, we focus on the structure-based design of peptides mimicking VEGF/VEGFR binding epitopes. The binding interface of the complex has been dissected and the different regions challenged for peptide design. All these trials furnished a better understanding of the molecular recognition process and provide us with a wealth of molecules that could be optimized to be exploited for pharmaceutical applications.

Gold nanoparticles as antiangiogenic and antimetastatic agents

Angiogenesis and metastasis are two interdependent cancer hallmarks, the latter of which is the key cause of treatment failure. Thus, establishing effective antiangiogenesis/antimetastasis agents is the final frontier in cancer research. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) may provide disruptive advancements in this regard due to their intrinsic physical and physiological features. Here, we comprehensively discuss recent potential therapeutical strategies to treat angiogenesis and metastasis and present a critical review on the state-of-the-art in vitro and in vivo evaluations of the antiangiogenic/antimetastatic activity of GNPs. Finally, we provide perspectives on the contribution of GNPs to the advancement of cancer management.

Vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptors regulation in gestational diabetes mellitus and eclampsia

Background

An imbalance in the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor (VEGF-R) during pregnancy plays an important role in the pathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and eclampsia. VEGF and its receptors change during the regulation of blood vessels as a result of risk factors such as familial genetics. These modifications include loss of original balance of serological indicators, upregulation or downregulation of growth factor indicators, and changes in the placenta, kidney, liver and other organs to varying degrees of damage. This has an impact on both the pregnant woman's and the fetus's health.

Main body

This paper summarizes the mechanisms of unbalanced VEGF and receptor expression based on data from relevant literature on GDM and eclampsia. An Imbalance in VEGF and its binding receptor is often associated with the occurrence of multiple pregnancy disorders. In recent years, researchers have focused on the potential role of VEGF and its receptors in the development of GDM and eclampsia.

Conclusion

This paper summarizes the different VEGF subtypes and their binding receptors, as well as mechanisms that cause GDM and eclampsia, in order to provide valuable data to inform monitoring, diagnosis, and prognosis.

99mTc- Anionic dendrimer targeted vascular endothelial growth factor as a novel nano-radiotracer for in-vivo breast cancer imaging

Since breast cancer is the commonly cause of death among women around the world, diagnosis at the early stages is significantly important to prevent the metastasis of the cancer. Among the various growth factors that are involved in angiogenesis, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is believed to be the most important factor. Overexpressed VEGF receptor on tumors surface, is particularly interesting for cancer cells targeting purposes. In this study, citric acid dendrimer conjugated with VEGF antagonist peptide was synthesized. The obtained product was confirmed by FT-IR, TEM, DLS, and EDS. In vitro cytotoxicity assay showed no toxicity on normal cells and indicated the notably dose-dependence toxicity on cancer cells. Box-Behnken software as a computational method was used to determine the optimum amount of radiolabeling parameters. Optimized parameters for reducing agent, dendrimer-anti-VEGF, and time were 1.4 mg, 17.5 mg, and about 30 min respectively. Radiochemical purity of radio-labeled conjugated dendrimer was determined about 90 percent. SPECT imaging was done to observe the in vivo accumulation of dendrimer-anti-VEGF in the tumor site. Images showed high accumulation of radio-tracer in the tumor region. All in all, obtained results confirmed our hypothesis that the dendrimer-anti-VEGF can be a good radio-tracer for diagnosis of cancer.