Hyaluronic acid-nimesulide conjugates as anticancer drugs against CD44-overexpressing HT-29 colorectal cancer in vitro and in vivo

Microcurrent Cloth-Assisted Transdermal Penetration and Follicular Ducts Escape of Curcumin-Loaded Micelles for Enhanced Wound Healing

Purpose

Larger nanoparticles of bioactive compounds deposit high concentrations in follicular ducts after skin penetration. In this study, we investigated the effects of microcurrent cloth on the skin penetration and translocation of large nanoparticle applied for wound repair applications.

Methods

A self-assembly of curcumin-loaded micelles (CMs) was prepared to improve the water solubility and transdermal efficiency of curcumin. Microcurrent cloth (M) was produced by Zn/Ag electrofabric printing to facilitate iontophoretic transdermal delivery. The transdermal performance of CMs combined with M was evaluated by a transdermal system and confocal microscopy. The CMs/iontophoretic combination effects on nitric oxide (NO) production and inflammatory cytokines were evaluated in Raw 264.7 cells. The wound-healing property of the combined treatment was assessed in a surgically created full-thickness circular wound mouse model.

Results

Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the presence of Zn/Ag on the microcurrent cloth. The average potential of M was measured to be +214.6 mV in PBS. Large particle CMs (CM-L) prepared using surfactant/cosurfactant present a particle size of 142.9 nm with a polydispersity index of 0.319. The solubility of curcumin in CM-L was 2143.67 μg/mL, indicating 250-fold higher than native curcumin (8.68 μg/mL). The combined treatment (CM-L+M) demonstrated a significant ability to inhibit NO production and increase IL-6 and IL-10 secretion. Surprisingly, microcurrent application significantly improved 20.01-fold transdermal performance of curcumin in CM-L with an obvious escape of CM-L from follicular ducts to surrounding observed by confocal microscopy. The CM-L+M group also exhibited a better wound-closure rate (77.94% on day 4) and the regenerated collagen intensity was approximately 2.66-fold higher than the control group, with a closure rate greater than 90% on day 8 in vivo.

Conclusion

Microcurrent cloth play as a promising iontophoretic transdermal drug delivery accelerator that enhances skin penetration and assists CMs to escape from follicular ducts for wound repair applications.

HA-Coated PLGA Nanoparticles Loaded with Apigenin for Colon Cancer with High Expression of CD44

Apigenin (API) possesses excellent antitumor properties but its limited water solubility and low bioavailability restrict its therapeutic impact. Thus, a suitable delivery system is needed to overcome these limitations and improve the therapeutic efficiency. Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a copolymer extensively utilized in drug delivery. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a major extracellular matrix component and can specifically bind to CD44 on colon cancer cells. Herein, we aimed to prepare receptor-selective HA-coated PLGA nanoparticles (HA-PLGA-API-NPs) for colon cancers with high expression of CD44; chitosan (CS) was introduced into the system as an intermediate, simultaneously binding HA and PLGA through electrostatic interaction to facilitate a tighter connection between them. API was encapsulated in PLGA to obtain PLGA-API-NPs, which were then sequentially coated with CS and HA to form HA-PLGA-API-NPs. HA-PLGA-API-NPs had a stronger sustained-release capability. The cellular uptake of HA-PLGA-API-NPs was enhanced in HT-29 cells with high expression of CD44. In vivo, HA-PLGA-API-NPs showed enhanced targeting specificity towards the HT-29 ectopic tumor model in nude mice in comparison with PLGA-API-NPs. Overall, HA-PLGA-API-NPs were an effective drug delivery platform for API in the treatment of colon cancers with high expression of CD44.

The synthesis, thermal behaviour, spectral and structural characterization, and in silico prediction of pharmacokinetic parameters of tetraalkylammonium salts of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug nimesulide

The synthesis, spectral properties, thermal analysis, structural characterization and in silico prediction of pharmacokinetic parameters of tetramethylammonium (compound 1) and tetraethylammonium (compound 2) salt of nimesulide were described in this article. Both compounds crystallize in the monoclinic P21/n space group, with one tetraalkylammonium cation and one nimesulide anion in the asymmetric unit and their crystal structures are stabilized by C-H···O hydrogen bonds between ions. Additionally, structures of title compounds are stabilized by π-π interactions (compound 1), or C-H···π interactions (compound 2) between nimesulide anions. The TG and DSC measurements show that compound 1 melts at a temperature higher than nimesulide, whereas the compound 2 melts at a temperature lower than nimesulide. The MALDI-TOF, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and ATR-FTIR analyses confirm the SCXRD study, that in compounds 1 and 2 nimesulide exists in an ionized form. Studies performed by SWISS ADME and ProTOX II tools, predict to be oral bioavailability of both salts obtained, and one of them (compound 1) is predicted to be well-absorbed by digestive system, while both compounds obtained are classified into toxicity class 4.

Development of triamcinolone acetonide-hyaluronic acid conjugates with selective targeting and less osteoporosis effect for rheumatoid arthritis treatments

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common systemic autoimmune disease in developed countries. In clinical treatment, steroids have been used as bridging and adjunctive therapy after disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug administration. However, the severe side effects caused by the nonspecific targeting of organs followed by long-term administration have limited their usage in RA. In this study, poorly water-soluble triamcinolone acetonide (TA), a highly potent corticosteroid for intra-articular injection, is conjugated on hyaluronic acid (HA) for intravenous purposes with increased specific drug accumulation in inflamed parts for RA. Our results demonstrate that the designed HA/TA coupling reaction reveals >98 % conjugation efficiency in the dimethyl sulfoxide/water system, and the resulting HA-TA conjugates show lower osteoblastic apoptosis compared with that in free TA-treated osteoblast-like NIH3T3 cells. Furthermore, in a collagen-antibody-induced arthritis animal study, HA-TA conjugates enhanced the initiative targeting ability to inflame tissue and reduce the histopathological arthritic changes (score = 0). Additionally, the level of bone formation marker P1NP in HA-TA-treated ovariectomized mice (303.6 ± 40.6 pg/mL) is significantly higher than that in the free TA-treated group (143.1 ± 3.9 pg/mL), indicating the potential for osteoporotic reduction using an efficient HA conjugation strategy for the long-term administration of steroids against RA.

Phase 1 study of the safety, pharmacokinetics, and preliminary efficacy of CA102N as monotherapy and in combination with trifluridine-tipiracil in patients with locally advanced or metastatic solid tumors

CA102N is a covalently bound conjugate of modified nimesulide (Nim) and NaHA, the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is a natural ligand of cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44), which is over-expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC). CA102N is designed to deliver nimesulide directly to the tumor via the interaction of HA and CD44. A Phase 1, 2-part (dose escalation, dose expansion), non-randomized, open-label, first-in-human study of CA102N, as monotherapy and in combination with trifluridine-tipiracil, was conducted in patients with locally advanced or metastatic solid tumors. The CA102N doses evaluated were 0.36 mg/kg, 0.54 mg/kg, and 0.72 mg/kg Nim equivalent. The primary endpoints were dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) in Cycle 1 as well as serious adverse events (SAEs) and treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) throughout the study; secondary endpoints were pharmacodynamics parameters, objective tumor response, and urinary pharmacodynamics markers of target inhibition. Between April 2019 and October 2021, 37 patients were enrolled in 3 US centers. No DLTs were observed in Part 1, and 0.72 mg/kg Nim equivalent was the dose selected for Part 2. In total, 52 TEAEs in 18 patients were CA102N-related; 4 (in 3 patients) were ≥ Grade 3. Exploratory analysis in the dose expansion cohort revealed a median progression-free survival of 3.7 (1.0, 6.77) months. Based on this study, CA102N as monotherapy or in combination with trifluridine-tipiracil, was safe and well-tolerated at the recommended Phase 2 dose of 0.72 mg/kg Nim equivalent in patients with locally advanced or metastatic solid tumors. Preliminary evidence of antitumor activity in CRC warrants further clinical development. (ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT03616574. Registration date: August 6, 2018).

Curcumin-Loaded Oil-Free Self-Assembled Micelles Inhibit the Influenza A Virus Activity and the Solidification of Curcumin-Loaded Micelles for Pharmaceutical Applications

Curcumin, a well-known natural lipophilic phenolic compound, plays a vital role in inhibiting the influenza infection. Currently, many kinds of formulations for the enhancement of a water dispersion of curcumin have been developed; however, the anti-influenza abilities of formulated curcumin have been much less investigated. In this study, the optimized self-assembled micelles of RH 40/Tween 80 loaded with curcumin (Cur-M) in an oil-free-based system were spherical with a hydrodynamic size at 13.55 nm ± 0.208 and polydispersity at 0.144 characterized by atomic force microscopy and dynamic light scattering, respectively. Additionally, Cur-M significantly increased the bioactivity/stability of curcumin and effectively inhibited the influenza A virus infection and its replication after viral entry, indicating the alteration of the inhibition mechanisms of curcumin against virus infection via RH 40/Tween 80 micelle formulation. Furthermore, a solid formulation (Cur-SM) of Cur-M was successfully developed by a one-pot physical adsorption method using a small amount of adsorbent and ~50% of curcumin/Cur-M that could be burst released from Cur-SM in 1 h, facilitating the fast-releasing applications. Ultimately, all of the results show that Cur-SM acts as a good nano-formulation of curcumin with improved solubility/dispersity in aqueous solutions and demonstrate new anti-influenza mechanisms of curcumin for pharmaceutical development.

Polyglutamate-based nanoconjugates for image-guided surgery and post-operative melanoma metastases prevention

Rationale: Cutaneous melanoma is the most aggressive and deadliest of all skin malignancies. Complete primary tumor removal augmented by advanced imaging tools and effective post-operative treatment is critical in the prevention of tumor recurrence and future metastases formation. Methods: To meet this challenge, we designed novel polymeric imaging and therapeutic systems, implemented in a two-step theranostic approach. Both are composed of the biocompatible and biodegradable poly(α,L-glutamic acid) (PGA) nanocarrier that facilitates extravasation-dependent tumor targeting delivery. The first system is a novel, fluorescent, Turn-ON diagnostic probe evaluated for the precise excision of the primary tumor during image-guided surgery (IGS). The fluorescence activation of the probe occurs via PGA degradation by tumor-overexpressed cathepsins that leads to the separation of closely-packed, quenched FRET pair. This results in the emission of a strong fluorescence signal enabling the delineation of the tumor boundaries. Second, therapeutic step is aimed to prevent metastases formation with minimal side effects and maximal efficacy. To that end, a targeted treatment containing a BRAF (Dabrafenib - mDBF)/MEK (Selumetinib - SLM) inhibitors combined on one polymeric platform (PGA-SLM-mDBF) was evaluated for its anti-metastatic, preventive activity in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPi) αPD1 and αCTLA4. Results: IGS in melanoma-bearing mice led to a high tumor-to-background ratio and reduced tumor recurrence in comparison with mice that underwent surgery under white light (23% versus 33%, respectively). Adjuvant therapy with PGA-SLM-mDBF combined with ICPi, was well-tolerated and resulted in prolonged survival and prevention of peritoneal and brain metastases formation in BRAF-mutated melanoma-bearing mice. Conclusions: The results reveal the great clinical potential of our PGA-based nanosystems as a tool for holistic melanoma treatment management.

Drug Delivery Using Hydrophilic Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs): Effect of Structure Properties of MOFs on Biological Behavior of Carriers

To study the influence of pore structural properties of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) on drug adsorption and delivery, we synthesized two MOF termed TMU-6(RL1) {[Zn(oba)(RL1)_0.5]_n·(DMF)_1.5} and TMU-21(RL2) {[Zn(oba)(RL2)_0.5]_n·(DMF)_1.5} with amine basic N-donor pillars containing phenyl or naphthyl cores with various hydrophilic properties around the main center of the reaction. TG, IR, XPS, and PXRD analyses were used to extensively characterize the MOFs. The synthesized carriers showed high adsorption efficiency, stability, and controlled release. As an anticancer drug, Nimesulide (Nim) was adsorbed to MOFs using multiple adsorption mechanisms, such as _Hostπ-π_Guest interaction and _HostN-H···O_Guest hydrogen bonds. Moreover, Hirshfeld surface analysis showed when the benzene core was replaced with the naphthalene core, the percentage of intermolecular interactions of π···π and N···H by amine sites in TMU-21(RL2) decreased compared with TMU-6(RL1), while the percentage of these interactions with guest molecules increased. The results showed that changes in the hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity properties of MOFs would alter their ability to adsorb Nim in the pore of the frameworks. In vitro anticancer studies also showed that the cytotoxicity of Nim in MOFs@Nim composites against human cervical cancer cell line (HeLa cells) and human colon cancer cell line (HT-29 cells) is much higher than that of free Nim. Generally, based on the results, it can be said that the biological behavior of carriers can be regulated by adjusting the structure properties of MOFs.

Methoxybenzamide derivative of nimesulide from anti-fever to anti-cancer: chemical characterization and cytotoxicity

The repurposing strategy of converting nimesulide from an anti-fever drug to an anti-cancer agent by modifying its main structure targeting HSP27 is gaining great attention these days. The goal of this study focuses on synthesizing a new nimesulide derivative with new ligands that have biological anti-cancer activities in different cancer models using the in-vitro assay. Nimesulide derivative L1 was synthesized, characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FTIR, melting point, mass spectra, and TGA analysis. A single crystal was diffracted and showed colorless block group P-1. The results revealed that L1 demonstrates potent anti-cancer activity with lung (H292), ovarian (SKOV3), and breast (SKBR3) cancer cell lines in-vitro models with IC₅₀ values below 8.8 µM.

Advances in Hyaluronic-Acid-Based (Nano)Devices for Cancer Therapy

Cancer is the main cause of fatality all over the world with a considerable growth rate. Many biologically active nanoplatforms are exploited for tumor treatment. Of nanodevices, hyaluronic acid (HA)-based systems have shown to be promising candidates for cancer therapy due to their high biocompatibility and cell internalization. Herein, surface functionalization of different nanoparticles (NPs), e.g., organic- and inorganic-based NPs, is highlighted. Subsequently, HA-based nanostructures and their applications in cancer therapy are presented.

Effects of Eye Drops Containing Hyaluronic Acid-Nimesulide Conjugates in a Benzalkonium Chloride-Induced Experimental Dry Eye Rabbit Model

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a common ocular disease worldwide. Currently, anti-inflammatory agents and immunosuppressive drugs, such as cyclosporine A, have been widely used to treat this chronic condition. However, the multifactorial etiology of DES, poor tolerance, low bioavailability, and prolonged treatment to response time have limited their usage. In this study, nimesulide, a cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 selective inhibitor, was conjugated with hyaluronic acid (HA), and the HA-nimesulide conjugates were expected to increase the solubility and biocompatibility for alleviating the DES in the benzalkonium chloride (BAC)-induced goblet cell-loss dry eye model. The therapeutic efficacy of HA-nimesulide was assessed using fluorescein staining, goblet cell density by conjunctival impression cytology, and histology and immunohistochemistry of corneal tissues. Compared to commercial artificial tears and Restasis®, the HA-nimesulide conjugates could promote goblet cell recovery and enhance the regeneration of the corneal epithelium. Importantly, immunofluorescent staining studies demonstrated that the HA-nimesulide conjugates could decrease the number of infiltrating CD11b-positive cells after two weeks of topical application. In the anti-inflammatory test, the HA-nimesulide conjugates could inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated Raw 264.7 cell model. In conclusion, we demonstrated that HA-nimesulide conjugates had anti-inflammatory activity, and promoted goblet cell recovery and corneal epithelium regeneration when used as topical eye drops; accordingly, the HA-nimesulide conjugates could potentially be effective for the treatment of DES.

Is hyaluronic acid the perfect excipient for the pharmaceutical need?

Hyaluronic acid has become an interesting and important polymer as an excipient for pharmaceutical products due to its beneficial properties, like solubility, biocompatibility and biodegradation. To improve the properties of hyaluronic acid, different possibilities for chemical modifications are presented, and the opportunities as novel systems for drug delivery are discussed. This review gives an overview over the production of hyaluronic acid, the possibilities of its chemical modification and the current state of in vitro and in vivo research. Furthermore, market approved and commercially available products are reviewed and derivatives undergoing clinical trials and applying for market approval are shown. In particular, hyaluronic acid has been studied for different administrations in rheumatology, ophthalmology, local anesthetics, cancer treatment and bioengineering of tissues. The present work concludes with perspectives for future administration of pharmaceuticals based on hyaluronic acid.

A Glucuronic Acid-Palmitoylethanolamide Conjugate (GLUPEA) Is an Innovative Drug Delivery System and a Potential Bioregulator

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endogenous anti-inflammatory lipid mediator and a widely used nutraceutical. In this study, we designed, realized, and tested a drug-carrier conjugate between PEA (the active drug) and glucuronic acid (the carrier). The conjugate, named GLUPEA, was characterized for its capability of increasing PEA levels and exerting anti-inflammatory activity both in vitro and in vivo. GLUPEA treatment, compared to the same concentration of PEA, resulted in higher cellular amounts of PEA and the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), and increased 2-AG-induced transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) channel desensitization to capsaicin. GLUPEA inhibited pro-inflammatory monocyte chemoattractant protein 2 (MCP-2) release from stimulated keratinocytes, and it was almost as efficacious as ultra-micronized PEA at reducing colitis in dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS)-injected mice when using the same dose. GLUPEA is a novel pro-drug able to efficiently mimic the anti-inflammatory and endocannabinoid enhancing actions of PEA.

Advances in Bio-Based Polymers for Colorectal CancerTreatment: Hydrogels and Nanoplatforms

Adenocarcinoma of the colon is the most common malignant neoplasia of the gastrointestinal tract and is a major contributor to mortality worldwide. Invasiveness and metastatic behavior are typical of malignant tumors and, because of its portal drainage, the liver is the closest capillary bed available in this case, hence the common site of metastatic dissemination. Current therapies forecast total resection of primary tumor when possible and partial liver resection at advanced stages, along with systemic intravenous therapies consisting of chemotherapeutic agents such as 5-fluorouracil. These cures are definitely not exempt from drawbacks and heavy side effects. Biocompatible polymeric networks, both in colloids and bulk forms, able to absorb large quantities of water and load a variety of molecules-belong to the class of innovative drug delivery systems, thus suitable for the purpose and tunable on each patient can represent a promising alternative. Indeed, the implantation of polymeric scaffolds easy to synthesize can substitute chemotherapy and combination therapies scheduling, shortening side effects. Moreover, they do not require a surgical removal thanks to spontaneous degradation and guarantees an extended and regional cargo release, maintaining high drug concentrations. In this review, we focus our attention on the key role of polymeric networks as drug delivery systems potentially able to counteract this dramatic disease.

Hydrogels to engineer tumor microenvironments in vitro

Illustration of engineered hydrogel to recapitulate aspects of the tumor microenvironment.

Shifting the absorption to the near-infrared region and inducing a strong photothermal effect by encapsulating zinc(II) phthalocyanine in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-hyaluronic acid nanoparticles

By using an oil-in-water single emulsion method, a series of multifunctional hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared which consisted of a core of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) with a lipoid shell of n-hexadecylamine-substituted hyaluronic acid (HA), encapsulating a zinc(II) phthalocyanine-based photosensitizer (ZnPc). As determined by laser light scattering, these hybrid NPs labeled as ZnPc@PLGA-HA NPs possessed a hydrodynamic diameter of 280 nm and a surface charge of -30 mV, showing high stability in serum. The Q-band absorption of ZnPc exhibited a large red-shift from 674 nm for free ZnPc in dimethylsulfoxide to 832 nm for this nanosystem in water. Upon light irradiation at 808 nm, the encapsulated ZnPc induced a strong photothermal effect instead of photodynamic action, which is usually observed for ZnPc-containing NPs. The tumor-targeting effect of these NPs due to the HA coating was investigated against the human colorectal adenocarcinoma HT29 cells and human lung carcinoma A549 cells, both of which overexpress cluster determinant 44 (CD44) receptors, using the CD44-negative human normal hepatic LO2 cells as a negative control. The photothermal cell-killing effect of these NPs was significantly higher for the two CD44-positive cell lines than that for the negative control. Their in vivo photothermal efficacy was also examined on HT29 tumor-bearing nude mice. Upon irradiation, the NPs caused significant temperature increase at the tumor site and ablation of the tumor. The results showed that these multifunctional NPs could serve as an effective photothermal agent for targeted photothermal therapy. Statement of significance Phthalocyanines are well-known photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy. By encapsulating these molecules into various nanoplatforms, a range of multifunctional photosensitizing systems have been developed for cancer therapy. In this study, we have demonstrated that by careful selection of phthalocyanines and the nanocarriers, as well as the self-assembly and encapsulation methods, the encapsulated phthalocyanine molecules could switch the photoinduced action from photodynamic therapy to photothermal therapy as a result of the enhanced aggregation of the macrocyclic molecules in the nanoparticles. The unique packing of the molecules also resulted in a large red-shift of the Q-band absorption to 832 nm, facilitating the in vitro and in vivo photothermal treatment.

The Glycocalyx and Its Role in Vascular Physiology and Vascular Related Diseases

Purpose

In 2007 the two senior authors wrote a review on the structure and function of the endothelial glycocalyx layer (Weinbaum in Annu Rev Biomed Eng 9:121–167, 2007). Since then there has been an explosion of interest in this hydrated gel-like structure that coats the luminal surface of endothelial cells that line our vasculature due to its important functions in (A) basic vascular physiology and (B) vascular related diseases. This review will highlight the major advances that have occurred since our 2007 paper.

Methods

A literature search mainly focusing on the role of the glycocalyx in the two major areas described above was performed using electronic databases.

Results

In part (A) of this review, the new formulation of the century old Starling principle, now referred to as the Michel–Weinbaum glycoclayx model or revised Starling hypothesis, is described including new subtleties and physiological ramifications. New insights into mechanotransduction and release of nitric oxide due to fluid shear stress sensed by the glycocalyx are elaborated. Major advances in understanding the organization and function of glycocalyx components, and new techniques for measuring both its thickness and spatio-chemical organization based on super resolution, stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM) are presented. As discussed in part (B) of this review, it is now recognized that artery wall stiffness associated with hypertension and aging induces glycocalyx degradation, endothelial dysfunction and vascular disease. In addition to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, the glycocalyx plays an important role in lifestyle related diseases (e.g., diabetes) and cancer. Infectious diseases including sepsis, Dengue, Zika and Corona viruses, and malaria also involve the glycocalyx. Because of increasing recognition of the role of the glycocalyx in a wide range of diseases, there has been a vigorous search for methods to protect the glycocalyx from degradation or to enhance its synthesis in disease environments.

Conclusion

As we have seen in this review, many important developments in our basic understanding of GCX structure, function and role in diseases have been described since the 2007 paper. The future is wide open for continued GCX research.

Radiosensitivity enhancement by Co-NMS-mediated mitochondrial impairment in glioblastoma

We investigated the radiosensitizing effects of Co-NMS, a derivative of nimesulide based on a cobalt carbonyl complex, on malignant glioma cells. In the zebrafish exposed to Co-NMS ranging from 5 to 20 μM, cell death and heat shock protein 70 expression in the brain and neurobehavioral performance were evaluated. Our data showed that Co-NMS at 5 μM did not cause the appreciable neurotoxicity, and thereby was given as a novel radiation sensitizer in further study. In the U251 cells, Co-NMS combined with irradiation treatment resulted in significant inhibition of cell growth and clonogenic capability as well as remarkable increases of G2/M arrest and apoptotic cell population compared to the irradiation alone treatment. This demonstrated that the Co-NMS administration exerted a strong potential of sensitizing effect on the irradiated cells. With regard to the tumor radiosensitization of Co-NMS, it could be primarily attributed to the Co-NMS-derived mitochondrial impairment, reflected by the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, the disruption of mitochondrial fusion and fission balance as well as redox homeostasis. Furthermore, the energy metabolism of the U251 cells was obviously suppressed by cotreatment with Co-NMS and irradiation through repressing mitochondrial function. Taken together, our findings suggested that Co-NMS could be a desirable drug to enhance the radiotherapeutic effects in glioblastoma patients.

Hyaluronic Acid Capped, Irinotecan and Gene Co-Loaded Lipid-Polymer Hybrid Nanocarrier-Based Combination Therapy Platform for Colorectal Cancer

Background

The current approach for treating colorectal cancer favors the use of drug and gene combination therapy, and targeted nano-systems are gaining considerable attention for minimizing toxicity and improving the efficacy of anticancer treatment. The aim of this study was to develop ligand-modified, irinotecan and gene co-loaded lipid-polymer hybrid nanocarriers for targeted colorectal cancer combination therapy.

Methods

Hyaluronic acid modified, irinotecan and gene co-loaded LPNs (HA-I/D-LPNs) were prepared using a solvent-evaporation method. Their average size, zeta potential, drug and gene loading capacity were characterized. The in vitro and in vivo gene transfection and anti-tumor ability of this nano-system were evaluated on colorectal cancer cells and mice bearing colorectal cancer model.

Results

HA-I/D-LPNs had a size of 182.3 ± 5.1, over 80% drug encapsulation efficiency and over 90% of gene loading capacity. The peak plasma concentration (C_max) and half-life (T_1/2) achieved from HA-I/D-LPNs were 41.31 ± 1.58 μg/mL and 12.56 ± 0.67 h. HA-I/D-LPNs achieved the highest tumor growth inhibition efficacy and the most prominent transfection efficiency in vivo.

Conclusion

HA-I/D-LPNs exhibited the most remarkable tumor inhibition efficacy and best gene transfection efficiency in the tumor, which could prove the effects of the drug and gene combination therapy.

BH3 profiling discriminates the anti‑apoptotic status of 5‑fluorouracil‑resistant colon cancer cells

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a cytotoxic anticancer drug commonly used for patients with advanced colon cancer. This drug effectively reduces the size of tumors to a certain degree; however, cancer cells can gradually acquire resistance, resulting in disease progression. To identify the mechanism of 5-FU resistance, we established three 5-FU-resistant colon cancer cell lines and analyzed both apoptosis-related protein expression levels and BH3 profiling. These 5-FU-resistant colon cancer cell lines acquired apoptotic resistance to 5-FU. Although apoptosis-related protein expression levels were altered in each 5-FU-resistant colon cancer cell line variably, BH3 profiling indicated BCLXL dependence in 5-FU-resistant HT-29 cells only. Functional BCLXL inhibition in 5-FU-resistant HT-29 cells not only sensitized the cells to apoptosis but also overcame 5-FU resistance. The apoptotic BIM protein was preferentially sequestered, thereby resulting in acquired dependence on BCLXL for survival. Additionally, in vivo models showed that BCLXL inhibition controlled tumor progression. These results indicate that BH3 profiling facilitates the identification of the functional role of anti-apoptotic proteins during drug resistance and has clinical implications for colon cancer in targeting specific proteins such as BCLXL.

Bioactive Peptides Sensitize Cells to Anticancer Effects of Oxaliplatin in Human Colorectal Cancer Xenografts in Nude Mice

BACKGROUND

Despite new agent development and short-term benefits in patients with Colorectal Cancer (CRC), metastatic CRC cure rates have not improved due to high rates of oxaliplatin resistance and toxicity. There is an urgent need for effective tools to prevent and treat CRC and reduce morbidity and mortality of CRC patients. Exploring the effects of bioactive peptides on the antitumor to CRC was of vital importance to the clinical application.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic impact of Anticancer Bioactive Peptides (ACBP) on anticancer effect of oxaliplatin (LOHP) in human colorectal cancer xenografts models in nude mice.

METHODS

HCT-116 cells were cultured in vitro via CCK-8 assays and the absorbance was measured at 450 nm. Apoptosis and cell cycle were assessed by Flow Cytometry (FCM) in vitro. HCT-116 human colorectal cancer cells inoculated subcutaneously in nude mice of treatment with PBS (GG), ACBP, LOHP, ACBP+LOHP (A+L) in vivo. The quality of life was assessed by dietary amount of nude mice, the weight of nude mice, inhibition rates, tumor weight and tumor volume. Immunohistochemistry and RT-qPCR method was conducted to determine the levels of apoptosisregulating proteins/genes in transplanted tumors.

RESULTS

ACBP induced substantial reductions in viable cell numbers and apoptosis of HCT116 cells in combined with LOHP in vitro. Compared with the control GG group, ACBP combined low dose oxaliplatin (U) group demonstrated significantly different tumor volume, the rate of apoptosis, the expression levels of Cyt-C, caspase-3,8,9 proteins and corresponding RNAs (P<0.05). The expression of pro-apoptotic proteins in the cytoplasm around the nucleus was significantly enhanced by ACBP. Short term intermittent use of ACBP alone indicted a certain inhibitory effect on tumor growth, and improve the quality of life of tumor bearing nude mice.

CONCLUSION

ACBP significantly increased the anti-cancer responses of low dose oxaliplatin (L-LOHP), thus, significantly improving the quality of life of tumor-bearing nude mice.

Synthesis and Different Effects of Biotinylated PAMAM G3 Dendrimer Substituted with Nimesulide in Human Normal Fibroblasts and Squamous Carcinoma Cells

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) remains a main cause of mortality in patients with neck and head cancers, with poor prognosis and increased prevalence despite of available therapies. Recent studies have identified a role of cyclooxygenases, particularly inducible isoform cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and its metabolite prostaglandin E2 (PGE₂) in cancer cell proliferation, and its inhibition become a target for control of cancer development, particularly in the view of recognized additive or synergic action of COX-2 inhibitors with other forms of therapy. Nimesulide (N), the selective COX-2 inhibitor, inhibits growth and proliferation of various types of cancer cells by COX-2 dependent and independent mechanisms. In the presented study, the conjugates of biotinylated third generation poly(amidoamine) dendrimer (PAMAM) with covalently linked 18 (G3^B18N) and 31 (G3^B31N) nimesulide residues were synthesized and characterized by NMR spectroscopy. Biological properties of conjugates were evaluated, including cytotoxicity, proliferation, and caspase 3/7 activities in relation to COX-2/PGE₂ axis signaling in human normal fibroblast (BJ) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC-15). Both conjugates exerted a selective cytotoxicity against SCC-15 as compared with BJ cells at low 1.25-10 µM concentration range and their action in cancer cells was over 250-fold stronger than nimesulide alone. Conjugates overcome apoptosis resistance and sensitized SCC-15 cells to the apoptotic death independently of COX-2/PGE₂ axis. In normal human fibroblasts the same concentrations of G3^B31N conjugate were less effective in inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis, as measured by caspase 3/7 activity in a manner depending on increase of PGE₂ production by either COX-1/COX-2.

Nimesulide analogues: From anti-inflammatory to antitumor agents

Nimesulide is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug possessing analgesic and antipyretic properties. This drug is considered a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor and, more recently, has been associated to antitumor activity. Thus, numerous works have been developed to modify the nimesulide skeleton aiming to develop new and more potent and selective COX-2 inhibitors as well as potential anticancer agents. This review intends to provide an overview on analogues of nimesulide, including the general synthetic approaches used for their preparation and structural diversification and their main anti-inflammatory and/or antitumor properties.

New developments and clinical transition of hyaluronic acid-based nanotherapeutics for treatment of cancer: reversing multidrug resistance, tumour-specific targetability and improved anticancer efficacy

This review aims to overview and critically analyses recent developments in achieving tumour-specific delivery of anticancer agents, maximizing anticancer efficacy, and mitigating tumour progression and off-target effects. Stemming from critical needs to develop target-specific delivery vehicles in cancer therapy, various hyaluronic acid (HA)-conjugated nanomedicines have been fabricated owing to their biocompatibility, safety, tumour-specific targetability of drugs and genes, and proficient interaction with cluster-determinant-44 (CD44) receptors over-expressed on the surface of tumour cells. HA-based conjugation or surface modulation of anticancer drugs encapsulated nanocarriers have shown promising efficacy against the various types of carcinomas of liver, breast, colorectal, pancreatic, lung, skin, ovarian, cervical, head and neck and gastric. The success of this emerging platform is assessed in achieving the rapid internalization of anticancer payloads into the tumour cells, impeding cancer cells division and proliferation, induction of cancer-specific apoptosis and prevention of metastasis (tumour progression). This review extends detailed insight into the engineering of HA-based nanomedicines, characterization, utilization for the diagnosis or treatment of CD44 over-expressing cancer subtypes and emphasizing the transition of nanomedicines to clinical cancer therapy.