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Yanikoglu R, Karakas CY, Ciftci F, Insel MA, Karavelioglu Z, Varol R, Yilmaz A, Cakir R, Uvet H, Ustundag CB. Development of Graphene Oxide-Based Anticancer Drug Combination Functionalized with Folic Acid as Nanocarrier for Targeted Delivery of Methotrexate. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:837. [PMID: 38931957 PMCID: PMC11207743 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16060837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Graphene has become a prominent material in cancer research in recent years. Graphene and its derivatives also attract attention as carriers in drug delivery systems. In this study, we designed a graphene oxide (GO)-based methotrexate (MTX)-loaded and folic acid (FA)-linked drug delivery system. MTX and FA were bound to GO synthesized from graphite. MTX/FA/GO drug delivery system and system components were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential calorimetric analysis (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), zeta potential analysis, and dimension measurement (DLS) studies. SEM and TEM images confirmed the nanosheet structure of GO synthesized from graphite, and it was shown that MTX/FA binding to GO transformed the two-dimensional GO into a three-dimensional structure. FTIR and DSC graphs confirmed that oxygen atoms were bound to GO with the formation of carboxylic, hydroxyl, epoxide, and carbonyl groups as a result of the oxidation of graphite, and GO was successfully synthesized. Additionally, these analyses showed that MTX and FA bind physicochemically to the structure of GO. The in vitro Franz diffusion test was performed as a release kinetic test. The release kinetics mathematical model and correlation coefficient (R2) of MTX-loaded GO/FA nanomaterials were found to be the Higuchi model and 0.9785, respectively. Stiffness analyses showed that adding FA to this release system facilitated the entry of the drug into the cell by directing the system to target cells. As a result of the stiffness analyses, the stiffness values of the control cell group, free MTX, and MTX/FA/GO applied cells were measured as 2.34 kPa, 1.87 kPa, and 1.56 kPa, respectively. According to these results, it was seen that MTX/FA/GO weakened the cancer cells. Combined use of the MTX/FA/GO drug delivery system had a higher cytotoxic effect than free MTX on the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line. The results showed that the synthesized MTX/FA/GO material has promising potential in cancer cell-specific targeted therapy for MTX as a drug delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reyhan Yanikoglu
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, Yıldız Technical University, İstanbul 34210, Türkiye
| | - Canan Yagmur Karakas
- Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, Yıldız Technical University, İstanbul 34210, Türkiye
| | - Fatih Ciftci
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University, Istanbul 34445, Türkiye
| | - Mert Akın Insel
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, Yıldız Technical University, İstanbul 34210, Türkiye
| | - Zeynep Karavelioglu
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, Yıldız Technical University, İstanbul 34210, Türkiye
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rahmetullah Varol
- Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul 34349, Türkiye
- Business Administration Department, Bundeswehr University Munich, 85579 Munich, Germany
| | - Abdurrahim Yilmaz
- Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul 34349, Türkiye
| | - Rabia Cakir
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, Yıldız Technical University, İstanbul 34210, Türkiye
- Türkiye Biotechnology Institute, Health Institutes of Türkiye, Istanbul 34718, Türkiye
| | - Hüseyin Uvet
- Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul 34349, Türkiye
| | - Cem Bulent Ustundag
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, Yıldız Technical University, İstanbul 34210, Türkiye
- Health Biotechnology Joint Research and Application Center of Excellence, Istanbul 34220, Türkiye
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Grumezescu V, Gherasim O, Gălățeanu B, Hudiță A. Antitumoral-Embedded Biopolymeric Spheres for Implantable Devices. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:754. [PMID: 38931875 PMCID: PMC11207774 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16060754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The bioactive surface modification of implantable devices paves the way towards the personalized healthcare practice by providing a versatile and tunable approach that increase the patient outcome, facilitate the medical procedure, and reduce the indirect or secondary effects. The purpose of our study was to assess the performance of composite coatings based on biopolymeric spheres of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) embedded with hydroxyapatite (HA) and methotrexate (MTX). Bio-simulated tests performed for up to one week evidenced the gradual release of the antitumor drug and the biomineralization potential of PLGA/HA-MTX sphere coatings. The composite materials proved superior biocompatibility and promoted enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation with respect to human preosteoblast and osteosarcoma cell lines when compared to pristine titanium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Grumezescu
- Lasers Department, National Institute for Lasers, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 077125 Magurele, Romania
| | - Oana Gherasim
- Lasers Department, National Institute for Lasers, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 077125 Magurele, Romania
| | - Bianca Gălățeanu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ariana Hudiță
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
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Mishra M, Barkat MA, Misra C, Alanezi AA, Ali A, Chaurawal N, Ali A, Preet S, Barkat H, Raza K. Lipid-based microemulsion gel for the topical delivery of methotrexate: an optimized, rheologically acceptable formulation with conducive dermatokinetics. Arch Dermatol Res 2024; 316:316. [PMID: 38822884 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-024-03140-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
In the present study, we have formulated a methotrexate (MTX)-loaded microemulsion topical gel employing quality-by-design optimization. The optimized lipid-based microemulsion was incorporated into a 2% carbopol gel. The prepared formulation was characterized for micromeritics, surface charge, surface morphology, conductivity studies, rheology studies, texture analysis/spreadability, drug entrapment, and drug loading studies. The formulation was further evaluated for drug release and release kinetics, cytotoxicity assays, drug permeation and drug retention studies, and dermatokinetics. The developed nanosystem was not only rheologically acceptable but also offered substantial drug entrapment and loading. From drug release studies, it was observed that the nanogel showed higher drug release at pH 5.0 compared to plain MTX, plain gel, and plain microemulsion. The developed system with improved dermatokinetics, nanometric size, higher drug loading, and enhanced efficacy towards A314 squamous epithelial cells offers a huge promise in the topical delivery of methotrexate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohini Mishra
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy, Central University of Rajasthan, Bandarsindri, Distt., Ajmer, 305 817, Rajasthan, India
| | - Md Abul Barkat
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Hafr Al-Batin, Al Jamiah, 39524, Hafr Al-Batin, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Charu Misra
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy, Central University of Rajasthan, Bandarsindri, Distt., Ajmer, 305 817, Rajasthan, India
| | - Abdulkareem Ali Alanezi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Hafr Al-Batin, Al Jamiah, 39524, Hafr Al-Batin, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amena Ali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, 21944, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nishtha Chaurawal
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy, Central University of Rajasthan, Bandarsindri, Distt., Ajmer, 305 817, Rajasthan, India
| | - Abuzer Ali
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, 21944, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Simran Preet
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Basic Medical Sciences Block-2, Sector-25, Chandigarh, 160 014, India
| | - Harshita Barkat
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Hafr Al-Batin, Al Jamiah, 39524, Hafr Al-Batin, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kaisar Raza
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy, Central University of Rajasthan, Bandarsindri, Distt., Ajmer, 305 817, Rajasthan, India
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Kulchar RJ, Singh R, Ding S, Alexander E, Leong KW, Daniell H. Delivery of biologics: Topical administration. Biomaterials 2023; 302:122312. [PMID: 37690380 PMCID: PMC10840840 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Biologics are unaffordable to a large majority of the global population because of prohibitively expensive fermentation systems, purification and the requirement for cold chain for storage and transportation. Limitations of current production and delivery systems of biologics were evident during the recent pandemic when <2.5% of vaccines produced were available to low-income countries and ∼19 million doses were discarded in Africa due to lack of cold-chain infrastructure. Among FDA-approved biologics since 2015, >90% are delivered using invasive methods. While oral or topical drugs are highly preferred by patients because of their affordability and convenience, only two oral drugs have been approved by FDA since 2015. A newly launched oral biologic costs only ∼3% of the average cost of injectable biologics because of the simplified regulatory approval process by elimination of prohibitively expensive fermentation, purification, cold storage/transportation. In addition, the cost of developing a new biologic injectable product (∼$2.5 billion) has been dramatically reduced through oral or topical delivery. Topical delivery has the unique advantage of targeted delivery of high concentration protein drugs, without getting diluted in circulating blood. However, only very few topical drugs have been approved by the FDA. Therefore, this review highlights recent advances in oral or topical delivery of proteins at early or advanced stages of human clinical trials using chewing gums, patches or sprays, or nucleic acid drugs directly, or in combination with, nanoparticles and offers future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel J. Kulchar
- Department of Basic and Translational Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Rahul Singh
- Department of Basic and Translational Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Suwan Ding
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York City NY 10032, USA
| | - Elena Alexander
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York City NY 10032, USA
| | - Kam W Leong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York City NY 10032, USA
| | - Henry Daniell
- Department of Basic and Translational Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
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Ziyaee S, Malekzadeh R, Ghorbani M, Nasiri Motlagh B, Asghariazar V, Mortezazadeh T. Preparation of MnO 2@poly-(DMAEMA-co-IA)-conjugated methotrexate nano-complex for MRI and radiotherapy of breast cancer application. MAGMA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 36:779-795. [PMID: 37074514 DOI: 10.1007/s10334-023-01091-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A novel efficient pH-sensitive targeted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent and innovative radio-sensitizing system were synthesized based on MnO2 NPs coated with biocompatible poly-dimethyl-amino-ethyl methacrylate-Co-itaconic acid, (DMAEMA-Co-IA) and targeted with methotrexate (MTX). MATERIALS AND METHODS The as-established NPs were fully characterized and evaluated for MRI signal enhancement, relaxivity, in vitro cell targeting, cell toxicity, blood compatibility, and radiotherapy (RT) efficacy. RESULTS The targeted NPs MnO2@Poly(DMAEMA-Co-IA) and MTX-loaded NPs inhibited MCF-7 cell viability more effectively than free MTX after 24 and 48 h, respectively, with no noticeable toxicity. Additionally, the insignificant hemolytic activity demonstrated their proper hemo-compatibility. T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging was used to distinguish the differential uptake of the produced MnO2@Poly(DMAEMA-Co-IA)-MTX NPs in malignant cells compared to normal ones in the presence of high and low MTX receptor cells (MCF-7 and MCF-10A, respectively). In MRI, the produced theranostic NPs displayed pH-responsive contrast enhancement. As shown by in vitro assays, treatment of cells with MnO2@Poly(DMAEMA-Co-IA)-MTX NPs prior to radiotherapy in hypoxic conditions significantly enhanced therapeutic efficacy. CONCLUSION We draw the conclusion that using MnO2@Poly(DMAEMA-Co-IA)-MTX NPs in MR imaging and combination radiotherapy may be a successful method for imaging and radiation therapy of hypoxia cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Ziyaee
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Malekzadeh
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Marjan Ghorbani
- Nutrition Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Vahid Asghariazar
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
- Deputy of Research and Technology, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Tohid Mortezazadeh
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Medical Radiation Sciences Research Team, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Iaconis D, Caccuri F, Manelfi C, Talarico C, Bugatti A, Filippini F, Zani A, Novelli R, Kuzikov M, Ellinger B, Gribbon P, Riecken K, Esposito F, Corona A, Tramontano E, Beccari AR, Caruso A, Allegretti M. DHFR Inhibitors Display a Pleiotropic Anti-Viral Activity against SARS-CoV-2: Insights into the Mechanisms of Action. Viruses 2023; 15:v15051128. [PMID: 37243214 DOI: 10.3390/v15051128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, drug repurposing represented an effective strategy to obtain quick answers to medical emergencies. Based on previous data on methotrexate (MTX), we evaluated the anti-viral activity of several DHFR inhibitors in two cell lines. We observed that this class of compounds showed a significant influence on the virus-induced cytopathic effect (CPE) partly attributed to the intrinsic anti-metabolic activity of these drugs, but also to a specific anti-viral function. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms, we took advantage of our EXSCALATE platform for in-silico molecular modelling and further validated the influence of these inhibitors on nsp13 and viral entry. Interestingly, pralatrexate and trimetrexate showed superior effects in counteracting the viral infection compared to other DHFR inhibitors. Our results indicate that their higher activity is due to their polypharmacological and pleiotropic profile. These compounds can thus potentially give a clinical advantage in the management of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients already treated with this class of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Iaconis
- EXSCALATE, Dompé Farmaceutici SpA, Via Tommaso De Amicis, 95, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesca Caccuri
- Section of Microbiology Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Candida Manelfi
- EXSCALATE, Dompé Farmaceutici SpA, Via Tommaso De Amicis, 95, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Carmine Talarico
- EXSCALATE, Dompé Farmaceutici SpA, Via Tommaso De Amicis, 95, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonella Bugatti
- Section of Microbiology Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Federica Filippini
- Section of Microbiology Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Zani
- Section of Microbiology Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Rubina Novelli
- Dompè Famaceutici SpA, Via Campo di Pile snc, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Maria Kuzikov
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Schnackenburgallee 114, 22525 Hamburg, Germany
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence for Immune-Mediated Diseases CIMD, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Bernhard Ellinger
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Schnackenburgallee 114, 22525 Hamburg, Germany
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence for Immune-Mediated Diseases CIMD, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Philip Gribbon
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Schnackenburgallee 114, 22525 Hamburg, Germany
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence for Immune-Mediated Diseases CIMD, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Kristoffer Riecken
- Research Department Cell and Gene Therapy, Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Francesca Esposito
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria SS554, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | - Angela Corona
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria SS554, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | - Enzo Tramontano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria SS554, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | | | - Arnaldo Caruso
- Section of Microbiology Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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Verma R, Rani V, Kumar M. In-vivo anticancer efficacy of self-targeted methotrexate-loaded polymeric nanoparticles in solid tumor-bearing rat. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 119:110147. [PMID: 37044039 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Here, cytotoxicity and antitumor efficacy against a chemically (N-methyl-N-nitrosourea) generated mammary tumor in rats were assessed using methotrexate-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (Meth-Cs-NPs). Meth-Cs-NPs intravenous administrated resulted in noticeably decreased tumor incidence, multiplicity, and weight. Further, kidney function tests for the treated groups resulted in noticeably decreased ALP (Meth-Cs-NPs; 244 ± 15, diseases control; 403 ± 14 U/L), Creatinine (Meth-Cs-NPs; 0.81 ± 0.05, diseases control; 2 ± 0.05 mg/dl), and Urea (Meth-Cs-NPs; 56.62 ± 5, diseases control; 113 ± 6 mg/dl) levels, close to a normal control group. Similarly, liver function tests showed significantly decreased serum biomarkers, SGPT (Meth-Cs-NPs; 40 ± 1.8, diseases control; 84 ± 1.9 U/L) and SGOT (Meth-Cs-NPs; 15 ± 2, diseases control; 55 ± 4 U/L) levels in treated groups as compared to the untreated group (diseases control). From the results, pro-inflammatory cytokines were also markedly reduced in the treated group such as, TNF-α (Meth-Cs-NPs; 17.31 ± 1.15, diseases control; 36.9 ± 5 pg/mL), IL-1β (Meth-Cs-NPs; 433.3 ± 66.5, diseases control; 1540 ± 131.1 pg/mL), and IL-6 (Meth-Cs-NPs; 1515 ± 53, diseases control; 2200.6 ± 69 pg/mL) levels. Whereas Meth-Cs-NPs not only helped in lowering tumor multiplicity rates but also decrease inflammation. The studies could be successfully performed in chemically induced mammary tumors due to their easy, quick tumor growth and low mortality rates in rat models. According to the current study, Meth-Cs-NPs have high treatment potency and represent a possible therapeutic alternative for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinki Verma
- School of Biomedical Engineering, IIT (BHU), Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Varsha Rani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, IIT (BHU), Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Nano 2 Micro Material Design Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering and Technology, IIT (BHU), Varanasi 221005, India.
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Sengottiyan S, Mikolajczyk A, Puzyn T. How Does the Study MD of pH-Dependent Exposure of Nanoparticles Affect Cellular Uptake of Anticancer Drugs? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043479. [PMID: 36834890 PMCID: PMC9958846 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The lack of knowledge about the uptake of NPs by biological cells poses a significant problem for drug delivery. For this reason, designing an appropriate model is the main challenge for modelers. To address this problem, molecular modeling studies that can describe the mechanism of cellular uptake of drug-loaded nanoparticles have been conducted in recent decades. In this context, we developed three different models for the amphipathic nature of drug-loaded nanoparticles (MTX-SS-γ-PGA), whose cellular uptake mechanism was predicted by molecular dynamics studies. Many factors affect nanoparticle uptake, including nanoparticle physicochemical properties, protein-particle interactions, and subsequent agglomeration, diffusion, and sedimentation. Therefore, the scientific community needs to understand how these factors can be controlled and the NP uptake of nanoparticles. Based on these considerations, in this study, we investigated for the first time the effects of the selected physicochemical properties of the anticancer drug methotrexate (MTX) grafted with hydrophilic-γ-polyglutamic acid (MTX-SS-γ-PGA) on its cellular uptake at different pH values. To answer this question, we developed three theoretical models describing drug-loaded nanoparticles (MTX-SS-γ-PGA) at three different pH values, such as (1) pH 7.0 (the so-called neutral pH model), (2) pH 6.4 (the so-called tumor pH model), and (3) pH 2.0 (the so-called stomach pH model). Exceptionally, the electron density profile shows that the tumor model interacts more strongly with the head groups of the lipid bilayer than the other models due to charge fluctuations. Hydrogen bonding and RDF analyses provide information about the solution of the NPs with water and their interaction with the lipid bilayer. Finally, dipole moment and HOMO-LUMO analysis showed the free energy of the solution in the water phase and chemical reactivity, which are particularly useful for determining the cellular uptake of the NPs. The proposed study provides fundamental insights into molecular dynamics (MD) that will allow researchers to determine the influence of pH, structure, charge, and energetics of NPs on the cellular uptake of anticancer drugs. We believe that our current study will be useful in developing a new model for drug delivery to cancer cells with a much more efficient and less time-consuming model.
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Sato K, Seki T, Mizutani A, Muranaka Y, Hirota S, Nishi K, Yamazaki K, Nishii R, Nakanishi T, Tamai I, Kawai K, Kobayashi M. A single high-dose irradiation changes accumulation of methotrexate and gene expression levels of SLC and ABC transporters in cancer cells. Front Pharmacol 2023; 13:1069321. [PMID: 36712667 PMCID: PMC9874220 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1069321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemoradiotherapy is frequently used to treat cancer. Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is a single high-dose radiotherapy used to treat a variety of cancers. The anticancer drug methotrexate (MTX) shows affinity for solute carrier (SLC) and ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. This study investigated relationships between accumulation of methotrexate and gene expression levels of solute carrier and ATP-binding cassette transporters in cancer cells after a single and high-dose X-ray irradiation. Cancer cell lines were selected from lung and cervical cancer cell line that are commonly used for stereotactic body radiotherapy and effective with methotrexate. We examined expression levels of organic anion-transporting polypeptide (OATP)1B1, OATP1B3, OATP1B7, and organic anion transporter (OAT)1 as solute carrier transporters and multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP)1 and MRP2 as ATP-binding cassette transporters, using real-time polymerase chain reaction and accumulation of 3H-MTX in cancer cells after 10-Gy irradiation, assuming stereotactic body radiotherapy. Cells were divided into three groups: Control without irradiation; 4 h after irradiation; and 24 h after irradiation. In control, gene expression levels of OAT1 in all cells was below the limit of measurement. After irradiation, gene expression levels of OATP1B1/1B3/1B7 showed changes in each cell line. Gene expression levels of MRP1/2 tended to increase after irradiation. Gene expression levels of OATP1B1/1B3/1B7 were much lower than those of MRP1/2. Accumulation of 3H-MTX tended to decrease over time after irradiation. Irradiation of cancer cells thus alters gene expression levels of both solute carrier transporters (OATP1B1/1B3/1B7) and ABC transporters (MRP1/2) and decreases accumulation of 3H-MTX in cancer cells over time due to elevated expression of MRP1/2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kakeru Sato
- Division of Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Seki
- Division of Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Asuka Mizutani
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Yuka Muranaka
- Division of Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Shiho Hirota
- Division of Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Kodai Nishi
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, Quantum Life and Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kana Yamazaki
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, Quantum Life and Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Nishii
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, Quantum Life and Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takeo Nakanishi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Takasaki University of Health and Welfare, Takasaki, Gunma, Japan
| | - Ikumi Tamai
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Keiichi Kawai
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan,Biomedical Imaging Research Center, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Masato Kobayashi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan,*Correspondence: Masato Kobayashi,
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Shariatifar H, Ranjbarian F, Hajiahmadi F, Farasat A. A comprehensive review on methotrexate containing nanoparticles; an appropriate tool for cancer treatment. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:11049-11060. [PMID: 36097117 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07782-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
For more than seven decades, methotrexate has been used all over the world for treatment of different diseases such as: cancer, autoimmune diseases, and rheumatoid arthritis. Several studies have addressed its formula, efficacy, and delivery methods in recent years. These studies have been focused on the effectiveness of different nanoparticles on drug delivery, delivery of the drug to the target cells, and attenuation of harm to the host cell. Whereas, the main usages of methotrexate are in cancer treatment field, this review provided a brief perspective into using different nanoparticles and their role in the treatment of different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanifeh Shariatifar
- Health Products Safety Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Fateme Ranjbarian
- Student Research Committee, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Hajiahmadi
- Department of Medical Imaging Technology (Molecular Imaging), School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Farasat
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.
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11
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Nanoscale self-assembling prodrugs of sulfapyridine for treatment of arthritis: Harnessing the dual approach. Med Hypotheses 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2022.110896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Feng C, Pan L, Qin X, Li D, Chen T, Lin Z, Li G, Wang Q. Inflammation-homing "living drug depot" for efficient arthritis treatment. Acta Biomater 2022; 150:324-336. [PMID: 35840107 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Delivering therapeutic agents efficiently to inflamed joints remains an intractable problem in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment due to the complicated physiological barriers. Circulating monocytes could selectively migrate to inflamed sites and differentiate into resident macrophages to aggravate RA. Therefore, a drug carrier that can be specifically internalized by circulating monocytes and switch monocytes into anti-inflammatory phenotype when reaching inflamed sites, might bypass the in vivo physiological barriers and achieve efficient RA therapy. Herein, we design a dextran sulfate (DS) functionalized nanoparticle (ZDNP) to selectively deliver anti-inflammatory agent dexamethasone (Dex) to circulating monocytes via the scavenger receptors on monocytes. Monocytes engulfing drug-loaded ZDNP could subsequently home to arthritic joints and act as a "living drug depot" to combat RA. Results revealed that ZDNP could be preferentially internalized by circulating monocytes when intravenously administrated in vivo. In a rat arthritic model, we found that circulating monocytes remarkably facilitated drug distribution and retention in inflamed joints. Moreover, monocytes engulfing drug-loaded nanoparticles exhibited favorable anti-inflammatory ability and M2-biased differentiation. Our work offers a facile approach to achieve site-directed anti-inflammatory therapy by taking advantage of the inflammation-homing ability of circulating monocytes. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Circulating monocytes can migrate to inflamed sites and then differentiate into macrophages to aggravate arthritis. Therefore, a drug carrier that can be specifically internalized by circulating monocytes and switch monocytes into anti-inflammatory phenotype when reaching inflamed sites may achieve efficient arthritis therapy. Here, we designed a monocyte-targeting nanoparticle (ZDNP) to selectively deliver anti-inflammatory Dex to circulating monocytes. When injected intravenously, ZDNP was effectively internalized by circulating monocytes via a scavenger receptor and subsequently was transported to arthritic joints, where monocytes engulfing the drug-loaded nanoparticles could switch to an anti-inflammatory phenotype to inhibit arthritis progress. We provide detailed evidence about the in vivo fate of ZDNP and unravel how monocytes act as a "living drug depot" to achieve site-directed arthritis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenglan Feng
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Lihua Pan
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Xianyan Qin
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Daming Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Zhicong Lin
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Guojiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
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13
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Ghoneum M, El-Gerbed MSA. Human placental extract ameliorates methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity in rats via regulating antioxidative and anti-inflammatory responses. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2021; 88:961-971. [PMID: 34505929 PMCID: PMC8536621 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-021-04349-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Methotrexate (MTX) induces hepatotoxicity, limiting its clinical efficacy as a widely known chemotherapy drug. In the current study, we examined the protective effect of human placenta extract (HPE) against MTX-induced liver damage in rats, as well as its ability to regulate antioxidative and anti-inflammatory liver responses. METHODS Male rats were orally administered MTX at a daily dose of 5 mg/kg-body-weight in the presence or absence of HPE (10.08 mg/kg) for 2 weeks. We measured the biological effects of MTX and HPE on the levels of liver enzymes, lipid profile, lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress biomarkers, and cytokines [tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-10 (IL-10)]. In addition, histological examination and histopathological scoring of liver tissues were performed. RESULTS MTX-treated rats showed significantly increased (p < 0.001) liver enzyme levels for aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. However, HPE supplementation in MTX-treated rats significantly decreased (p < 0.001) these elevated levels. HPE supplementation also significantly reduced the oxidative stress biomarker malondialdehyde (MDA), reversed the reduction in glutathione (GSH), and markedly increased the antioxidant enzyme activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the livers of MTX-treated rats. Furthermore, HPE supplementation significantly decreased the MTX-elevated levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10. Histopathological examinations showed that MTX produced severe cellular damage and inflammatory lesions in liver tissues, while treatment with HPE improved hepatic histologic architecture. CONCLUSION HPE has the ability to ameliorate methotrexate-induced liver injury in rats by mechanisms that include boosting antioxidative responses and down-regulating MDA and pro-inflammatory cytokine production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamdooh Ghoneum
- Department of Surgery, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, 1621 E. 120th Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90059, USA.
- Department of Surgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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Li S, Wang X, Wang T, Zhang H, Lu X, Liu L, Li L, Bo C, Kong X, Xu S, Ning S, Wang J, Wang L. Identification of the regulatory role of lncRNA HCG18 in myasthenia gravis by integrated bioinformatics and experimental analyses. J Transl Med 2021; 19:468. [PMID: 34794447 PMCID: PMC8600732 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-03138-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), functioning as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs), have been reported to play important roles in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. However, little is known about the regulatory roles of lncRNAs underlying the mechanism of myasthenia gravis (MG). The aim of the present study was to explore the roles of lncRNAs as ceRNAs associated with the progression of MG. METHODS MG risk genes and miRNAs were obtained from public databases. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and module analysis were performed. A lncRNA-mediated module-associated ceRNA (LMMAC) network, which integrated risk genes in modules, risk miRNAs and predicted lncRNAs, was constructed to systematically explore the regulatory roles of lncRNAs in MG. Through performing random walk with restart on the network, HCG18/miR-145-5p/CD28 ceRNA axis was found to play important roles in MG, potentially. The expression of HCG18 in MG patients was detected using RT-PCR. The effects of HCG18 knockdown on cell proliferation and apoptosis were determined by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry. The interactions among HCG18, miR-145-5p and CD28 were explored by luciferase assay, RT-PCR and western blot assay. RESULTS Based on PPI network, we identified 9 modules. Functional enrichment analyses revealed these modules were enriched in immune-related signaling pathways. We then constructed LMMAC network, containing 25 genes, 50 miRNAs, and 64 lncRNAs. Through bioinformatics algorithm, we found lncRNA HCG18 as a ceRNA, might play important roles in MG. Further experiments indicated that HCG18 was overexpressed in MG patients and was a target of miR-145-5p. Functional assays illustrated that HCG18 suppressed Jurkat cell apoptosis and promoted cell proliferation. Mechanistically, knockdown of HCG18 inhibited the CD28 mRNA and protein expression levels in Jurkat cells, while miR-145-5p inhibitor blocked the reduction of CD28 expression induced by HCG18 suppression. CONCLUSION We have reported a novel HCG18/miR-145-5p/CD28 ceRNA axis in MG. Our findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanism of and provide a novel potential therapeutic target for MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tianfeng Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Huixue Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaoyu Lu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Lifang Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Chunrui Bo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaotong Kong
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Si Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Shangwei Ning
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Jianjian Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Lihua Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China.
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Manna S, Donnell AM, Faraj RQC, Riemann BI, Riemann CD, Augsburger JJ, Correa ZM, Banerjee RK. Pharmacokinetics and Toxicity Evaluation of a PLGA and Chitosan-Based Micro-Implant for Sustained Release of Methotrexate in Rabbit Vitreous. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13081227. [PMID: 34452188 PMCID: PMC8398642 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The present research investigates the pharmacokinetics and toxicity of a chitosan (CS) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-based methotrexate (MTX) intravitreal micro-implant in normal rabbit eyes. PLGA and CS-based micro-implants containing 400 µg of MTX were surgically inserted in the vitreous of twenty-four New Zealand rabbits using minimally invasive procedures. The PLGA-coated CS-MTX micro-implant and the placebo micro-implant were inserted in the right eye and in the left eye, respectively, of each rabbit. The intravitreal MTX concentration was evaluated on Days 1, 3, 7, 14, 28 and 56. A therapeutic concentration of MTX (0.1–1.0 µM) in the rabbit vitreous was observed for 56 days. The release of MTX in the therapeutic release phase followed first-order kinetics. Histopathologic evaluation on Days 14, 28 and 56 of the enucleated eyes demonstrated no signs of toxicity or any anatomical irregularity in the vitreoretinal domain. Additionally, the micro-implants were stationary at the position of their implantation throughout the duration of the study. The PLGA-coated CS-MTX micro-implant can serve as a potential alternative to the current treatment modality of intravitreal MTX injections based on its performance, thereby avoiding associated complications and the treatment burden of multiple injections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumyarwit Manna
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA;
| | - Anna M. Donnell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA;
| | - Rafaela Q. Caixeta Faraj
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA; (R.Q.C.F.); (B.I.R.); (C.D.R.); (J.J.A.); (Z.M.C.)
| | - Blanca I. Riemann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA; (R.Q.C.F.); (B.I.R.); (C.D.R.); (J.J.A.); (Z.M.C.)
| | - Christopher D. Riemann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA; (R.Q.C.F.); (B.I.R.); (C.D.R.); (J.J.A.); (Z.M.C.)
| | - James J. Augsburger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA; (R.Q.C.F.); (B.I.R.); (C.D.R.); (J.J.A.); (Z.M.C.)
| | - Zelia M. Correa
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA; (R.Q.C.F.); (B.I.R.); (C.D.R.); (J.J.A.); (Z.M.C.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33146, USA
| | - Rupak K. Banerjee
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-5134772124
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Fu R, Wang XN, Guo CH, Li Y, Ding CY, Li YJ, Dong ZJ. Wuzhi capsule increased systemic exposure to methotrexate by inhibiting the expression of OAT1/3 and P-gp. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:845. [PMID: 34164479 PMCID: PMC8184478 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-1303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background Methotrexate (MTX) is an important anticancer agent and immunosuppressant with a narrow therapeutic window. Wuzhi capsule (WZC) is an extract of Schisandra which is widely used to treat liver diseases. Co-administration of MTX and WZC is common in the clinical setting, but research on the interaction between WZC and MTX is limited. This study aimed to investigate the effects of WZC on the pharmacokinetics of MTX in rats and to explore the role of membrane transport proteins OAT1/3 and P-gp in the interaction of these drugs. Methods Plasma MTX concentration was detected by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS), and the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression of OAT1/3 and P-gp was evaluated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blotting analyses, respectively. Results The study results revealed that co-administration of WZC decreased the CLz/F and Vz/F of MTX, increased the Cmax and area under the curve [(AUC)0–24 h] of MTX, and inhibited OAT1/3 expression in the kidney and P-gp expression in the small intestine. Conclusions The findings suggested that there is a drug interaction between WZC and MTX and that OAT1/3 in the kidney and P-gp in the small intestine may be the main targets mediating the drug interaction, and attention should be paid when they are used in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Fu
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiao-Nan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Cai-Hui Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Cong-Yang Ding
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Ya-Jing Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zhan-Jun Dong
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
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