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Erramilli SK, Dominik PK, Ogbu CP, Kossiakoff AA, Vecchio AJ. Structural and biophysical insights into targeting of claudin-4 by a synthetic antibody fragment. Commun Biol 2024; 7:733. [PMID: 38886509 PMCID: PMC11183071 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06437-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Claudins are a 27-member family of ~25 kDa membrane proteins that integrate into tight junctions to form molecular barriers at the paracellular spaces between endothelial and epithelial cells. As the backbone of tight junction structure and function, claudins are attractive targets for modulating tissue permeability to deliver drugs or treat disease. However, structures of claudins are limited due to their small sizes and physicochemical properties-these traits also make therapy development a challenge. Here we report the development of a synthetic antibody fragment (sFab) that binds human claudin-4 and the determination of a high-resolution structure of it bound to claudin-4/enterotoxin complexes using cryogenic electron microscopy. Structural and biophysical results reveal this sFabs mechanism of select binding to human claudin-4 over other homologous claudins and establish the ability of sFabs to bind hard-to-target claudins to probe tight junction structure and function. The findings provide a framework for tight junction modulation by sFabs for tissue-selective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satchal K Erramilli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Pawel K Dominik
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
- Pfizer, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Chinemerem P Ogbu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
- Department of Structural Biology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
| | - Anthony A Kossiakoff
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Alex J Vecchio
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA.
- Department of Structural Biology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA.
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Shrestha A, Mehdizadeh Gohari I, Li J, Navarro M, Uzal FA, McClane BA. The biology and pathogenicity of Clostridium perfringens type F: a common human enteropathogen with a new(ish) name. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024:e0014023. [PMID: 38864615 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00140-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYIn the 2018-revised Clostridium perfringens typing classification system, isolates carrying the enterotoxin (cpe) and alpha toxin genes but no other typing toxin genes are now designated as type F. Type F isolates cause food poisoning and nonfoodborne human gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, which most commonly involve type F isolates carrying, respectivefooly, a chromosomal or plasmid-borne cpe gene. Compared to spores of other C. perfringens isolates, spores of type F chromosomal cpe isolates often exhibit greater resistance to food environment stresses, likely facilitating their survival in improperly prepared or stored foods. Multiple factors contribute to this spore resistance phenotype, including the production of a variant small acid-soluble protein-4. The pathogenicity of type F isolates involves sporulation-dependent C. perfringens enterotoxin (CPE) production. C. perfringens sporulation is initiated by orphan histidine kinases and sporulation-associated sigma factors that drive cpe transcription. CPE-induced cytotoxicity starts when CPE binds to claudin receptors to form a small complex (which also includes nonreceptor claudins). Approximately six small complexes oligomerize on the host cell plasma membrane surface to form a prepore. CPE molecules in that prepore apparently extend β-hairpin loops to form a β-barrel pore, allowing a Ca2+ influx that activates calpain. With low-dose CPE treatment, caspase-3-dependent apoptosis develops, while high-CPE dose treatment induces necroptosis. Those effects cause histologic damage along with fluid and electrolyte losses from the colon and small intestine. Sialidases likely contribute to type F disease by enhancing CPE action and, for NanI-producing nonfoodborne human GI disease isolates, increasing intestinal growth and colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Shrestha
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Iman Mehdizadeh Gohari
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jihong Li
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mauricio Navarro
- Instituto de Patologia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Francisco A Uzal
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, San Bernardino, California, USA
| | - Bruce A McClane
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Wang J, Seo JW, Kare AJ, Schneider M, Tumbale SK, Wu B, Raie MN, Pandrala M, Iagaru A, Brunsing RL, Charville GW, Park WG, Ferrara KW. Spatial transcriptomic analysis drives PET imaging of tight junction protein expression in pancreatic cancer theranostics. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.07.574209. [PMID: 38249519 PMCID: PMC10798647 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.07.574209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
We apply spatial transcriptomics and proteomics to select pancreatic cancer surface receptor targets for molecular imaging and theranostics using an approach that can be applied to many cancers. Selected cancer surfaceome epithelial markers were spatially correlated and provided specific cancer localization, whereas the spatial correlation between cancer markers and immune- cell or fibroblast markers was low. While molecular imaging of cancer-associated fibroblasts and integrins has been proposed for pancreatic cancer, our data point to the tight junction protein claudin-4 as a theranostic target. Claudin-4 expression increased ∼16 fold in cancer as compared with normal pancreas, and the tight junction localization conferred low background for imaging in normal tissue. We developed a peptide-based molecular imaging agent targeted to claudin-4 with accumulation to ∼25% injected activity per cc (IA/cc) in metastases and ∼18% IA/cc in tumors. Our work motivates a new approach for data-driven selection of molecular targets.
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Erramilli SK, Dominik PK, Ogbu CP, Kossiakoff AA, Vecchio AJ. Cryo-EM structures of a synthetic antibody against 22 kDa claudin-4 reveal its complex with Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.12.544689. [PMID: 37398044 PMCID: PMC10312657 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.12.544689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Claudins are a family of ∼25 kDa membrane proteins that integrate into tight junctions to form molecular barriers at the paracellular spaces between endothelial and epithelial cells. Humans have 27 subtypes, which homo- and hetero-oligomerize to impart distinct properties and physiological functions to tissues and organs. As the structural and functional backbone of tight junctions, claudins are attractive targets for therapeutics capable of modulating tissue permeability to deliver drugs or treat disease. However, structures of claudins are limited due to their small sizes and physicochemical properties-these traits also make therapy development a challenge. We have developed a synthetic antibody fragment (sFab) that binds human claudin-4 and used it to resolve structures of its complex with Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CpE) using cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM). The resolution of the structures reveals the architectures of 22 kDa claudin-4, the 14 kDa C-terminal domain of CpE, and the mechanism by which this sFab binds claudins. Further, we elucidate the biochemical and biophysical bases of sFab binding and demonstrate that this molecule exhibits subtype-selectivity by assaying homologous claudins. Our results provide a framework for developing sFabs against hard-to-target claudins and establishes the utility of sFabs as fiducial markers for determining cryo-EM structures of this small membrane protein family at resolutions that surpass X-ray crystallography. Taken together, this work highlights the ability of sFabs to elucidate claudin structure and function and posits their potential as therapeutics for modulating tight junctions by targeting specific claudin subtypes.
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Bang C, Park MG, Cho IK, Lee DE, Kim GL, Jang EH, Shim MK, Yoon HY, Lee S, Kim JH. Liposomes targeting the cancer cell-exposed receptor, claudin-4, for pancreatic cancer chemotherapy. Biomater Res 2023; 27:53. [PMID: 37237291 DOI: 10.1186/s40824-023-00394-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Claudin-4 (CLDN4), a tight junction protein, is overexpressed in several types of cancer, and is considered a biomarker for cancer-targeted treatment. CLDN4 is not exposed in normal cells, but becomes accessible in cancer cells, in which tight junctions are weakened. Notably, surface-exposed CLDN4 has recently been found to act as a receptor for Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE) and fragment of CPE (CPE17) that binds to the second domain of CLDN4. METHODS Here, we sought to develop a CPE17-containing liposome that targets pancreatic cancers through binding to exposed CLDN4. RESULTS Doxorubicin (Dox)-loaded, CPE17-conjugated liposomes (D@C-LPs) preferentially targeted CLDN4-expressing cell lines, as evidenced by greater uptake and cytotoxicity compared with CLDN4-negative cell lines, whereas uptake and cytotoxicity of Dox-loaded liposomes lacking CPE17 (D@LPs) was similar for both CLDN4-positive and negative cell lines. Notably, D@C-LPs showed greater accumulation in targeted pancreatic tumor tissues compared with normal pancreas tissue; in contrast, Dox-loaded liposomes lacking CPE17 (D@LPs) showed little accumulation in pancreatic tumor tissues. Consistent with this, D@C-LPs showed greater anticancer efficacy compared with other liposome formulations and significantly extended survival. CONCLUSIONS We expect our findings will aid in the prevention and treatment of pancreatic cancer and provide a framework for identifying cancer-specific strategies that target exposed receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaeeun Bang
- College of Pharmacy and Bionanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Gyu Park
- College of Pharmacy and Bionanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - In Kyung Cho
- College of Pharmacy and Bionanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02797, Republic of Korea
| | - Da-Eun Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Bionanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Gye Lim Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Bionanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Hyang Jang
- College of Pharmacy and Bionanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Man Kyu Shim
- College of Pharmacy and Bionanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02797, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Yeol Yoon
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02797, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangmin Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Bionanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Regulatory Science, Graduated School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jong-Ho Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Bionanocomposite Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Regulatory Science, Graduated School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
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Fujiwara-Tani R, Mori S, Ogata R, Sasaki R, Ikemoto A, Kishi S, Kondoh M, Kuniyasu H. Claudin-4: A New Molecular Target for Epithelial Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:5494. [PMID: 36982569 PMCID: PMC10051602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Claudin-4 (CLDN4) is a key component of tight junctions (TJs) in epithelial cells. CLDN4 is overexpressed in many epithelial malignancies and correlates with cancer progression. Changes in CLDN4 expression have been associated with epigenetic factors (such as hypomethylation of promoter DNA), inflammation associated with infection and cytokines, and growth factor signaling. CLDN4 helps to maintain the tumor microenvironment by forming TJs and acts as a barrier to the entry of anticancer drugs into tumors. Decreased expression of CLDN4 is a potential marker of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and decreased epithelial differentiation due to reduced CLDN4 activity is involved in EMT induction. Non-TJ CLDN4 also activates integrin beta 1 and YAP to promote proliferation, EMT, and stemness. These roles in cancer have led to investigations of molecular therapies targeting CLDN4 using anti-CLDN4 extracellular domain antibodies, gene knockdown, clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE), and C-terminus domain of CPE (C-CPE), which have demonstrated the experimental efficacy of this approach. CLDN4 is strongly involved in promoting malignant phenotypes in many epithelial cancers and is regarded as a promising molecular therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rina Fujiwara-Tani
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Shiori Mori
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Ruiko Ogata
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Rika Sasaki
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Ayaka Ikemoto
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Shingo Kishi
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Masuo Kondoh
- Drug Innovation Center, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 6-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Japan;
| | - Hiroki Kuniyasu
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
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Banga AR, Odiase P, Rachakonda K, Garg AP, Adunyah SE, Rachakonda G. Application of C-Terminal Clostridium Perfringens Enterotoxin in Treatment of Brain Metastasis from Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174309. [PMID: 36077843 PMCID: PMC9454751 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Brain metastasis occurs in primary cancers, such as breast cancer, and is correlated with mortality. There are limited options available for treatment, but Clostridium perfringens Enterotoxin (CPE) and its interaction with Claudin-4, a possible diagnostic biomarker for breast cancer, can provide a molecular pathway basis for the development of treatment options for metastatic brain cancer. Analysis of the literature reveals that Claudin-4 plays an important role as a receptor for CPE, allowing for the disruption of cell membrane permeability, an influx of calcium ions, and subsequent cell death. The negligible presence of Claudin-4 in normal brain cancer cells and the high abundance of Claudin-4 in breast cancer cells metastasized to the brain, allow for the targeted binding of CPE to tumor cells in the brain. We show that the C-terminal of CPE conjugated to nanoparticles that cross the blood–brain barrier could serve as a drug delivery tool to treat metastatic cells in the brain. Abstract Claudin-4 is part of the Claudin family of transmembrane tight junction (TJ) proteins found in almost all tissues and, together with adherens junctions and desmosomes, forms epithelial and endothelial junctional complexes. Although the distribution of Claudin-4 occurs in many cell types, the level of expression is cell-specific. Claudin proteins regulate cell proliferation and differentiation by binding cell-signaling ligands, and its expression is upregulated in several cancers. As a result, alterations in Claudin expression patterns or distribution are vital in the pathology of cancer. Profiling the genetic expression of Claudin-4 showed that Claudin-4 is also a receptor for the clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE) and that Claudin-4 has a high sequence similarity with CPE’s high-affinity receptor. CPE is cytolytic due to its ability to form pores in cellular membranes, and CPE treatment in breast cancer cells have shown promising results due to the high expression of Claudin-4. The C-terminal fragment of CPE (c-CPE) provides a less toxic alternative for drug delivery into breast cancer cells, particularly metastatic tumors in the brain, especially as Claudin-4 expression in the central nervous system (CNS) is low. Therefore, c-CPE provides a unique avenue for the treatment of breast–brain metastatic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amita R. Banga
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Biological Engineering & Sciences, Shobhit Institute of Engineering & Technology, Meerut 250110, India
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Peace Odiase
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Kartik Rachakonda
- Undergraduate Studies, School of Arts and Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
| | - Amar P. Garg
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Biological Engineering & Sciences, Shobhit Institute of Engineering & Technology, Meerut 250110, India
| | - Samuel E. Adunyah
- Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Neuroscience & Pharmacology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Girish Rachakonda
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +615-775-7478
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Chen Q, Zou J, He Y, Pan Y, Yang G, Zhao H, Huang Y, Zhao Y, Wang A, Chen W, Lu Y. A narrative review of circulating tumor cells clusters: A key morphology of cancer cells in circulation promote hematogenous metastasis. Front Oncol 2022; 12:944487. [PMID: 36059616 PMCID: PMC9434215 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.944487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) that survive in the blood are playing an important role in the metastasis process of tumor. In addition, they have become a tool for tumor diagnosis, prognosis and recurrence monitoring. CTCs can exist in the blood as individual cells or as clumps of aggregated cells. In recent years, more and more studies have shown that clustered CTCs have stronger metastasis ability compared to single CTCs. With the deepening of studies, scholars have found that cancer cells can combine not only with each other, but also with non-tumor cells present in the blood, such as neutrophils, platelets, etc. At the same time, it was confirmed that non-tumor cells bound to CTCs maintain the survival and proliferation of cancer cells through a variety of ways, thus promoting the occurrence and development of tumor. In this review, we collected information on tumorigenesis induced by CTC clusters to make a summary and a discussion about them. Although CTC clusters have recently been considered as a key role in the transition process, many characteristics of them remain to be deeply explored. A detailed understanding of their vulnerability can prospectively pave the way for new inhibitors for metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jueyao Zou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yong He
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanhong Pan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Gejun Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Han Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing, China
| | - Aiyun Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenxing Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Wenxing Chen, ; Yin Lu,
| | - Yin Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Wenxing Chen, ; Yin Lu,
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Orlando BJ, Dominik PK, Roy S, Ogbu CP, Erramilli SK, Kossiakoff AA, Vecchio AJ. Development, structure, and mechanism of synthetic antibodies that target claudin and Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin complexes. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102357. [PMID: 35952760 PMCID: PMC9463536 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Strains of Clostridium perfringens produce a two-domain enterotoxin (CpE) that afflicts humans and domesticated animals, causing prevalent gastrointestinal illnesses. CpE’s C-terminal domain (cCpE) binds cell surface receptors, followed by a restructuring of its N-terminal domain to form a membrane-penetrating β-barrel pore, which is toxic to epithelial cells of the gut. The claudin family of membrane proteins are known receptors for CpE and also control the architecture and function of cell-cell contacts (tight junctions) that create barriers to intercellular molecular transport. CpE binding and assembly disables claudin barrier function and induces cytotoxicity via β-pore formation, disrupting gut homeostasis; however, a structural basis of this process and strategies to inhibit the claudin–CpE interactions that trigger it are both lacking. Here, we used a synthetic antigen-binding fragment (sFab) library to discover two sFabs that bind claudin-4 and cCpE complexes. We established these sFabs’ mode of molecular recognition and binding properties and determined structures of each sFab bound to claudin-4–cCpE complexes using cryo-EM. The structures reveal that the sFabs bind a shared epitope, but conform distinctly, which explains their unique binding equilibria. Mutagenesis of antigen/sFab interfaces observed therein result in binding changes, validating the structures, and uncovering the sFab’s targeting mechanism. From these insights, we generated a model for CpE’s claudin-bound β-pore that predicted sFabs would not prevent cytotoxicity, which we then verified in vivo. Taken together, this work demonstrates the development and mechanism of claudin/cCpE-binding sFabs that provide a framework and strategy for obstructing claudin/CpE assembly to treat CpE-linked gastrointestinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Orlando
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824 USA
| | - Pawel K Dominik
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637 USA
| | - Sourav Roy
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588 USA
| | - Chinemerem P Ogbu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588 USA
| | - Satchal K Erramilli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637 USA
| | - Anthony A Kossiakoff
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637 USA
| | - Alex J Vecchio
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588 USA.
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Zhao C, Rong Z, Ding J, Wang L, Wang B, Ding L, Meng L, Meng X, Wang F, Yang Z, Shou C, Zhu H. Targeting Claudin 18.2 Using a Highly Specific Antibody Enables Cancer Diagnosis and Guided Surgery. Mol Pharm 2022; 19:3530-3541. [PMID: 35344359 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.1c00947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Claudin 18.2 (CLDN18.2) is a new potential target for cancer therapy, especially for advanced gastric cancer (AGC). A molecular targeting probe is of importance for patient stratification and therapeutic guidance. Here, we explored an antibody-dependent molecular imaging strategy for specific detection and surgery guidance based on a CLDN18.2-specific antibody, 5C9. Two imaging probes, 124I-5C9 and Cy5.5-5C9, were synthesized. The specificity to CLDN18.2 being evidenced in the cellular experiments with control, the diagnostic utility was assessed by immunopositron emission tomography (immuno-PET) and fluorescence imaging using xenograft models. A near-infrared fluorescent II imaging probe FD1080-5C9 was designed to facilitate the comprehensive surgical removal of lesions. 124I-5C9 immuno-PET imaging clearly delineated subcutaneous CLDN18.2-positive tumors, with a peak uptake (maximum standardized uptake value; SUVmax) of 2.25 ± 0.30, whereas the highest values for the 124I-IgG and blocking groups were 0.70 ± 0.13 and 0.66 ± 0.12, respectively. Cy5.5-5C9 fluorescence imaging showed similar results. As proof of the diagnosis and guided surgery (DGS) concept, 124I-5C9 and FD1080-5C9 were simultaneously administered in orthotopic CLDN18.2-positive tumor models, facilitating the comprehensive resection of tumor tissue. Combined, 124I-5C9 and FD1080-5C9 are both promising DGS tools: the former reveals CLDN18.2 in lesions as a PET probe, and the latter can guide surgery. These results provide a utility molecular imaging strategy for specific detection and surgery guidance based on a CLDN18.2-specific antibody both in AGC and other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanke Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Zhuona Rong
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Jin Ding
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals (National Medical Products Administration), Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Lixin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Bing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Lei Ding
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Anesthesiology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Lin Meng
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Xiangxi Meng
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals (National Medical Products Administration), Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals (National Medical Products Administration), Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals (National Medical Products Administration), Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Chengchao Shou
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Hua Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals (National Medical Products Administration), Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
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11
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Disruption of Claudin-Made Tight Junction Barriers by Clostridium perfringens Enterotoxin: Insights from Structural Biology. Cells 2022; 11:cells11050903. [PMID: 35269525 PMCID: PMC8909277 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Claudins are a family of integral membrane proteins that enable epithelial cell/cell interactions by localizing to and driving the formation of tight junctions. Via claudin self-assembly within the membranes of adjoining cells, their extracellular domains interact, forming barriers to the paracellular transport of small molecules and ions. The bacterium Clostridium perfringens causes prevalent gastrointestinal disorders in mammals by employing an enterotoxin (CpE) that targets claudins. CpE binds to claudins at or near tight junctions in the gut and disrupts their barrier function, potentially by disabling their assembly or via cell signaling means—the mechanism(s) remain unclear. CpE ultimately destroys claudin-expressing cells through the formation of a cytotoxic membrane-penetrating β-barrel pore. Structures obtained by X-ray crystallography of CpE, claudins, and claudins in complex with CpE fragments have provided the structural bases of claudin and CpE functions, revealing potential mechanisms for the CpE-mediated disruption of claudin-made tight junctions. This review highlights current progress in this space—what has been discovered and what remains unknown—toward efforts to elucidate the molecular mechanism of CpE disruption of tight junction barriers. It further underscores the key insights obtained through structure that are being applied to develop CpE-based therapeutics that combat claudin-overexpressing cancers or modulate tight junction barriers.
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12
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Mashayekhi V, Mocellin O, Fens MH, Krijger GC, Brosens LA, Oliveira S. Targeting of promising transmembrane proteins for diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Theranostics 2021; 11:9022-9037. [PMID: 34522225 PMCID: PMC8419040 DOI: 10.7150/thno.60350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most fatal types of cancer due to the relatively late diagnosis and the limited therapeutic options. Current treatment regimens mainly comprise the cytotoxic agents gemcitabine and FOLFIRINOX. These compounds have shown limited efficacy and severe side effects, highlighting the necessity for earlier detection and the development of more effective, and better-tolerated treatments. Although targeted therapies are promising for the treatment of several types of cancer, identification of suitable targets for early diagnosis and targeted therapy of PDAC is challenging. Interestingly, several transmembrane proteins are overexpressed in PDAC cells that show low expression in healthy pancreas and may therefore serve as potential targets for treatment and/or diagnostic purposes. In this review we describe the 11 most promising transmembrane proteins, carefully selected after a thorough literature search. Favorable features and potential applications of each target, as well as the results of the preclinical and clinical studies conducted in the past ten years, are discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vida Mashayekhi
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Orsola Mocellin
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Marcel H.A.M. Fens
- Pharmaceutics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Gerard C. Krijger
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Faculty of Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lodewijk A.A. Brosens
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Faculty of Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sabrina Oliveira
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Pharmaceutics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
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13
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Li J. Targeting claudins in cancer: diagnosis, prognosis and therapy. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:3406-3424. [PMID: 34354852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence has linked claudins to signal transduction and tumorigenesis. The expression of claudins is frequently dysregulated in the context of neoplastic transformation, suggesting their promise as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis or targets for treatment. Claudin binders (Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin and monoclonal antibody) have been tested in preclinical experiments, and some of them have progressed into clinical trials involving patients with certain cancers. However, the clinical development of many of these agents has not advanced to clinical applications. Herein, I review the current status of preclinical and clinical investigations of agents targeting claudins for diagnosis, prognosis and therapy. I also discuss the potential of combining claudin binders with other currently approved therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Hospital of Mianyang, Sichuan Mental Health Center Mianyang 621000, Sichuan, China
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14
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Guo Y, Zhu H, Weng M, Zhang H, Wang C, Sun L. CC-223, NSC781406, and BGT226 Exerts a Cytotoxic Effect Against Pancreatic Cancer Cells via mTOR Signaling. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:580407. [PMID: 33343350 PMCID: PMC7741184 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.580407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The mTOR signaling pathway is abnormally activated in pancreatic cancer and is related to tumor glucose metabolism. However, its specific regulation mechanism is still unclear. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether Sestrin2 affects the glucose metabolism of pancreatic cancer by modulating mTOR signal and then affects its biological behavior. We have observed that l-leucine can promote the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells and increase the expression of Sestrin2 and p-mTOR proteins. In order to further study the role of Sestrin2 and mTOR signaling in pancreatic cancer, we conducted Sestrin2 overexpression and mTOR pharmacological inhibition experiments. We found that Sestrin2 overexpression can increase glycolysis of pancreatic cancer cells and promote their proliferation. This effect can be eliminated by mTOR inhibitors. Finally, we found that Sestrin2 knockdown could inhibit the growth of pancreatic cancer in vivo. In conclusion, these findings suggest that Sestrin2 may promote the occurrence and development of pancreatic cancer through mTOR signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial Top Key Discipline in Surgery, Wenzhou Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hengyue Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial Top Key Discipline in Surgery, Wenzhou Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou, China
| | - Min Weng
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial Top Key Discipline in Surgery, Wenzhou Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hewei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial Top Key Discipline in Surgery, Wenzhou Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial Top Key Discipline in Surgery, Wenzhou Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou, China
| | - Linxiao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial Top Key Discipline in Surgery, Wenzhou Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou, China
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