1
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Della Pelle G, Bozic T, Vukomanović M, Sersa G, Markelc B, Kostevšek N. Efficient siRNA delivery to murine melanoma cells via a novel genipin-based nano-polymer. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:4704-4723. [PMID: 39263399 PMCID: PMC11386170 DOI: 10.1039/d4na00363b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are therapeutic nucleic acids, often delivered via cationic polymers, liposomes, or extracellular vesicles, each method with its limitations. Genipin, a natural crosslinker for primary amines, was explored for siRNA delivery scaffolds. Spermine/genipin-based GxS5 polymers were synthesized, showing slightly positive ζ potential at neutral pH and intrinsic fluorescence. We then tuned their polymerization adding glycine to the reaction batch, from 1 to 10 molar ratio with genipin, therefore conferring them a "zwitterionic" character. GxS5 efficiently internalized into B16F10 murine melanoma cells, and exhibited strong siRNA-complexing ability and they were able to elicit up to 60% of gene knock-down without any toxicity. This highlights GxS5's potential as a safe, replicable, and tunable platform for therapeutic nucleic acid delivery, suggesting broader applications. This innovative approach not only sheds light on the intricate genipin reaction mechanism but also underscores the importance of fine-tuning nanoparticle properties for effective siRNA delivery. GxS5's success in mitigating cytotoxicity while maintaining delivery efficacy signifies a promising step towards safer and more efficient nucleic acid therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Della Pelle
- Department for Nanostructured Materials, Jožef Stefan Institute 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
- Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Tim Bozic
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Marija Vukomanović
- Advanced Materials Department, Jožef Stefan Institute 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana Zdravstvena pot 5 SI-1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Bostjan Markelc
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Nina Kostevšek
- Department for Nanostructured Materials, Jožef Stefan Institute 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
- Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
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2
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Leng Q, Anand A, Mixson AJ. pH modification of gel mobility shift improves polyplex selection In Vivo. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 738:150566. [PMID: 39180892 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150566] [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: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Cationic polymers that bind with the plasmids to form polyplexes protect the DNA from enzymatic degradation and improve cellular and tissue uptake. Complete or near complete gel retardation of the polyplex is an important assay to determine the optimal polymer: plasmid ratio for in vitro and in vivo studies. Nevertheless, despite minimal to moderate gel retardation of histidine-lysine (HK) polyplexes formed with low peptide: plasmid DNA ratios (1:2 and 1:4; w:w), the polyplexes effectively targeted the tumor in vivo. To understand the lack of predictability of the initial gel mobility shift assays, we revisited the retardation and stability of polyplexes with these electrophoresis assays. Because the histidine component with a pKa of about 6.0 will have a greater positive charge and may bind plasmids with a higher affinity at lower pHs, we compared the retardation of the two HK polyplexes when the pH of the running buffer of the gel mobility shift assay was altered. Both HK polyplexes were retarded significantly more when the running buffer had a pH of 7.3 instead of the standard pH of 8.3. Indeed, the HK polyplexes formed at the 1:2 ratio showed complete retardation at pH 7.3. Consequently, while both HK polyplexes formed at these low ratios targeted the tumor, the polyplex formed with the 1:2 ratio had reduced tumor gene expression variability and lower lung and liver values. Thus, the selection of the optimal ratios for the linear HK and plasmid for transfection studies in vivo was improved with a running buffer pH of 7.3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Leng
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 10 S. Pine St., University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - A Anand
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 10 S. Pine St., University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - A James Mixson
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 10 S. Pine St., University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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3
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Bian Y, Zhao K, Hu T, Tan C, Liang R, Weng X. A Se Nanoparticle/MgFe-LDH Composite Nanosheet as a Multifunctional Platform for Osteosarcoma Eradication, Antibacterial and Bone Reconstruction. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2403791. [PMID: 38958509 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202403791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Despite advances in treating osteosarcoma, postoperative tumor recurrence, periprosthetic infection, and critical bone defects remain critical concerns. Herein, the growth of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) onto MgFe-LDH nanosheets (LDH) is reported to develop a multifunctional nanocomposite (LDH/Se) and further modification of the nanocomposite on a bioactive glass scaffold (BGS) to obtain a versatile platform (BGS@LDH/Se) for comprehensive postoperative osteosarcoma management. The uniform dispersion of negatively charged SeNPs on the LDH surface restrains toxicity-inducing aggregation and inactivation, thus enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activation and superoxide anion radical (·O2 -)-H2O2 conversion. Meanwhile, Fe3+ within the LDH nanosheets can be reduced to Fe2+ by depleting glutathione (GSH) in the tumor microenvironments (TME), which can catalyze H2O2 into highly toxic reactive oxygen species. More importantly, incorporating SeNPs significantly promotes the anti-bacterial and osteogenic properties of BGS@LDH/Se. Thus, the developed BGS@LDH/Se platform can simultaneously inhibit tumor recurrence and periprosthetic infection as well as promote bone regeneration, thus holding great potential for postoperative "one-stop-shop" management of patients who need osteosarcoma resection and scaffold implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Bian
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, P. R. China
| | - Kexin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, P. R. China
| | - Tingting Hu
- Department Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Chaoliang Tan
- Department Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Ruizheng Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, P. R. China
- Quzhou Institute for Innovation in Resource Chemical Engineering, Quzhou, 324000, P. R. China
| | - Xisheng Weng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, P. R. China
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4
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Delgado Gonzalez B, Lopez-Blanco R, Parcero-Bouzas S, Barreiro-Piñeiro N, Garcia-Abuin L, Fernandez-Megia E. Dynamic Covalent Boronate Chemistry Accelerates the Screening of Polymeric Gene Delivery Vectors via In Situ Complexation of Nucleic Acids. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:17211-17219. [PMID: 38864331 PMCID: PMC11212051 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c03384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapy provides exciting new therapeutic opportunities beyond the reach of traditional treatments. Despite the tremendous progress of viral vectors, their high cost, complex manufacturing, and side effects have encouraged the development of nonviral alternatives, including cationic polymers. However, these are less efficient in overcoming cellular barriers, resulting in lower transfection efficiencies. Although the exquisite structural tunability of polymers might be envisaged as a versatile tool for improving transfection, the need to fine-tune several structural parameters represents a bottleneck in current screening technologies. By taking advantage of the fast-forming and strong boronate ester bond, an archetypal example of dynamic covalent chemistry, a highly adaptable gene delivery platform is presented, in which the polycation synthesis and pDNA complexation occur in situ. The robustness of the strategy entitles the simultaneous evaluation of several structural parameters at will, enabling the accelerated screening and adaptive optimization of lead polymeric vectors using dynamic covalent libraries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Delgado Gonzalez
- Centro
Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica
e Materiais Moleculares (CIQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Jenaro de la Fuente s/n, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Roi Lopez-Blanco
- Centro
Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica
e Materiais Moleculares (CIQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Jenaro de la Fuente s/n, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Samuel Parcero-Bouzas
- Centro
Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica
e Materiais Moleculares (CIQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Jenaro de la Fuente s/n, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Natalia Barreiro-Piñeiro
- Centro
Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica
e Materiais Moleculares (CIQUS), Departamento de Bioquímica
e Bioloxía Molecular, Universidade
de Santiago de Compostela, Jenaro de la Fuente s/n, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Lucas Garcia-Abuin
- Centro
Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica
e Materiais Moleculares (CIQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Jenaro de la Fuente s/n, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Eduardo Fernandez-Megia
- Centro
Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica
e Materiais Moleculares (CIQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Jenaro de la Fuente s/n, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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5
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Jung O, Jung HY, Thuy LT, Choi M, Kim S, Jeon HG, Yang J, Kim SM, Kim TD, Lee E, Kim Y, Choi JS. Modulating Lipid Nanoparticles with Histidinamide-Conjugated Cholesterol for Improved Intracellular Delivery of mRNA. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303857. [PMID: 38344923 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303857] [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] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Recently, mRNA-based therapeutics, including vaccines, have gained significant attention in the field of gene therapy for treating various diseases. Among the various mRNA delivery vehicles, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as promising vehicles for packaging and delivering mRNA with low immunogenicity. However, while mRNA delivery has several advantages, the delivery efficiency and stability of LNPs remain challenging for mRNA therapy. In this study, an ionizable helper cholesterol analog, 3β[L-histidinamide-carbamoyl] cholesterol (Hchol) lipid is developed and incorporated into LNPs instead of cholesterol to enhance the LNP potency. The pKa values of the Hchol-LNPs are ≈6.03 and 6.61 in MC3- and SM102-based lipid formulations. Notably, the Hchol-LNPs significantly improve the delivery efficiency by enhancing the endosomal escape of mRNA. Additionally, the Hchol-LNPs are more effective in a red blood cell hemolysis at pH 5.5, indicating a synergistic effect of the protonated imidazole groups of Hchol and cholesterol on endosomal membrane destabilization. Furthermore, mRNA delivery is substantially enhanced in mice treated with Hchol-LNPs. Importantly, LNP-encapsulated SARS-CoV-2 spike mRNA vaccinations induce potent antigen-specific antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Overall, incorporating Hchol into LNP formulations enables efficient endosomal escape and stability, leading to an mRNA delivery vehicle with a higher delivery efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onesun Jung
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Youn Jung
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Le Thi Thuy
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Minyoung Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongyeon Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Geun Jeon
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jihyun Yang
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Min Kim
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Don Kim
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Bioscience Major, KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjung Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonkyung Kim
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Bioscience Major, KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Sig Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
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6
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Steffens RC, Folda P, Fendler NL, Höhn M, Bücher-Schossau K, Kempter S, Snyder NL, Hartmann L, Wagner E, Berger S. GalNAc- or Mannose-PEG-Functionalized Polyplexes Enable Effective Lectin-Mediated DNA Delivery. Bioconjug Chem 2024; 35:351-370. [PMID: 38440876 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.3c00546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
A cationic, dendrimer-like oligo(aminoamide) carrier with four-arm topology based on succinoyl tetraethylene pentamine and histidines, cysteines, and N-terminal azido-lysines was screened for plasmid DNA delivery on various cell lines. The incorporated azides allow modification with various shielding agents of different polyethylene glycol (PEG) lengths and/or different ligands by copper-free click reaction, either before or after polyplex formation. Prefunctionalization was found to be advantageous over postfunctionalization in terms of nanoparticle formation, stability, and efficacy. A length of 24 ethylene oxide repetition units and prefunctionalization of ≥50% of azides per carrier promoted optimal polyplex shielding. PEG shielding resulted in drastically reduced DNA transfer, which could be successfully restored by active lectin targeting via novel GalNAc or mannose ligands, enabling enhanced receptor-mediated endocytosis of the carrier system. The involvement of the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) in the uptake of GalNAc-functionalized polyplexes was confirmed in the ASGPR-positive hepatocarcinoma cell lines HepG2 and Huh7. Mannose-modified polyplexes showed superior cellular uptake and transfection efficacy compared to unmodified and shielded polyplexes in mannose-receptor-expressing dendritic cell-like DC2.4 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricarda C Steffens
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Center for NanoScience (CeNS), LMU Munich, 80799 Munich, Germany
| | - Paul Folda
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Nikole L Fendler
- Department of Chemistry, Davidson College, Davidson, North Carolina 28035, United States
| | - Miriam Höhn
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Bücher-Schossau
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Susanne Kempter
- Faculty of Physics, LMU Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany
- Center for NanoScience (CeNS), LMU Munich, 80799 Munich, Germany
| | - Nicole L Snyder
- Department of Chemistry, Davidson College, Davidson, North Carolina 28035, United States
| | - Laura Hartmann
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute for Macromolecular Chemistry, University Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Str. 31, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Center for NanoScience (CeNS), LMU Munich, 80799 Munich, Germany
| | - Simone Berger
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Center for NanoScience (CeNS), LMU Munich, 80799 Munich, Germany
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7
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Kawaguchi Y, Kawamura Y, Hirose H, Kiyokawa M, Hirate M, Hirata T, Higuchi Y, Futaki S. E3MPH16: An efficient endosomolytic peptide for intracellular protein delivery. J Control Release 2024; 367:877-891. [PMID: 38301930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.01.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
To facilitate the introduction of proteins, such as antibodies, into cells, a variety of delivery peptides have been engineered. These peptides are typically highly cationic and somewhat hydrophobic, enabling cytosolic protein delivery at the cost of causing cell damage by rupturing membranes. This balance between delivery effectiveness and cytotoxicity presents obstacles for their real-world use. To tackle this problem, we designed a new endosome-disruptive cytosolic delivery peptide, E3MPH16, inspired by mastoparan X (MP). E3MPH16 was engineered to incorporate three Glu (E3) and 16 His (H16) residues at the N- and C-termini of MP, respectively. The negative charges of E3 substantially mitigate the cell-surface damage induced by MP. The H16 segment is known to enhance cell-surface adsorption and endocytic uptake of the associated molecules. With these modifications, E3MPH16 was successfully trapped within endosomes. The acidification of endosomes is expected to protonate the side chains of E3 and H16, enabling E3MPH16 to rupture endosomal membranes. As a result, nearly 100% of cells achieved cytosolic delivery of a model biomacromolecule, Alexa Fluor 488-labeled dextran (10 kDa), via endosomal escape by co-incubation with E3MPH16. The delivery process also suggested the involvement of macropinocytosis and caveolae-mediated endocytosis. With the assistance of E3MPH16, Cre recombinase and anti-Ras-IgG delivered into HEK293 cells and HT1080 cells enabled gene recombination and inhibited cell proliferation, respectively. The potential for in vivo application of this intracellular delivery method was further validated by topically injecting the green fluorescent protein fused with a nuclear localization signal (NLS-GFP) along with E3MPH16 into Colon-26 tumor xenografts in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshimasa Kawaguchi
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan.
| | - Yuki Kawamura
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Hisaaki Hirose
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Megumi Kiyokawa
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Momo Hirate
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Hirata
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Yuriko Higuchi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan.
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8
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Mohammadi N, Fayazi Hosseini N, Nemati H, Moradi-Sardareh H, Nabi-Afjadi M, Kardar GA. Revisiting of Properties and Modified Polyethylenimine-Based Cancer Gene Delivery Systems. Biochem Genet 2024; 62:18-39. [PMID: 37394575 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-023-10416-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
A new era of medical technology in cancer treatment is a directly specific modification of gene expression in tumor cells by nucleic acid delivery. Currently, the main challenge to achieving this goal is to find a non-toxic, safe, and effective strategy for gene transfer to cancer cells. Synthetic composites based on cationic polymers have historically been favored in bioengineering due to their ability to mimic bimolecular structures. Among them, polyethylenimines (PEIs) with superior properties such as a wide range of molecular weight and a flexible structure may propel the development of functional combinations in the biomedical and biomaterial fields. Here, in this review, we will focus on the recent progressions in the formulation optimization of PEI-based polyplex in gene delivery to treat cancer. Also, the effect of PEI's intrinsic characteristics such as structure, molecular weight, and positive charges which influence the gene delivery efficiency will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nejad Mohammadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Asthma and Allergy Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nashmin Fayazi Hosseini
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Hossein Nemati
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohsen Nabi-Afjadi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Gholam Ali Kardar
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Asthma and Allergy Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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9
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Zhao B, Zhang X, Bickle MS, Fu S, Li Q, Zhang F. Development of polypeptide-based materials toward messenger RNA delivery. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:2250-2264. [PMID: 38213302 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr05635j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA)-based therapeutic agents have demonstrated significant potential in recent times, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. As a promising prophylactic and therapeutic strategy, polypeptide-based mRNA delivery systems attract significant interest because of their low cost, simple preparation, tuneable sizes and morphology, convenient large-scale production, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. In this review, we begin with a brief discussion of the synthesis of polypeptides, followed by a review of commonly used polypeptides in mRNA delivery, including classical polypeptides and cell-penetrating peptides. Then, the challenges against mRNA delivery, including extracellular, intracellular, and clinical barriers, are discussed in detail. Finally, we highlight a range of strategies for polypeptide-based mRNA delivery, offering valuable insights into the advancement of polypeptide-based mRNA carrier development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, USA.
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, USA.
| | - Molly S Bickle
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, USA.
| | - Shiwei Fu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, USA.
| | - Qingchun Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, USA.
| | - Fuwu Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, USA.
- The Dr John T. Macdonald Foundation Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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10
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Leng Q, He J, Anand A, Mixson AJ. Delivery of mRNA with Histidine-Lysine Peptides. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2822:367-386. [PMID: 38907929 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3918-4_23] [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] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Transfection with mRNA has been considered superior to that with plasmids since the mRNA can be translated to a protein in the cytosol without entering the nucleus. One disadvantage of using mRNA is its susceptibility to enzymatic biodegradability, and consequently, significant research has occurred to determine nonviral carriers that will sufficiently stabilize this nucleic acid for cellular transport. Histidine-lysine peptides (HK) are one such class of mRNA carriers, which we think serves as a model for other peptides and polymeric carrier systems. When the HK peptide and mRNA are mixed and interact through ionic and nonionic bonds, mRNA polyplexes are formed, which can transfect cells. In contrast to linear HK peptides, branched HK peptides protected and efficiently transfected mRNA into cells. After describing the preparation and biophysical characterization of these polyplexes, we will provide protocols for in vitro and in vivo transfection for these mRNA polyplexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qixin Leng
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jiaxi He
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Aishwarya Anand
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - A James Mixson
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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11
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Franck CO, Bistrovic Popov A, Ahmed I, Hewitt RE, Franslau L, Tyagi P, Fruk L. A catch-and-release nano-based gene delivery system. NANOSCALE HORIZONS 2023; 8:1588-1594. [PMID: 37691551 DOI: 10.1039/d3nh00269a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
The design of nanomaterial-based nucleic acid formulations is one of the biggest endeavours in the search for clinically applicable gene delivery systems. Biopolymers represent a promising subclass of gene carriers due to their physicochemical properties, biodegradability and biocompatibility. By modifying melanin-like polydopamine nanoparticles with poly-L-arginine and poly-L-histidine blends, we obtained a novel catch-and-release gene delivery system for efficient trafficking of pDNA to human cells. A synergistic interplay of nanoparticle-bound poly-L-arginine and poly-L-histidine was observed and evaluated for pDNA binding affinity, cell viability, gene release and transfection. Although the functionalisation with poly-L-arginine was crucial for pDNA binding, the resulting nanocarriers failed to release pDNA intracellularly, resulting in limited protein expression. However, optimal pDNA release was achieved through the co-formulation with poly-L-histidine, essential for pDNA release. This effect enabled the design of gene delivery systems, which were comparable to Lipofectamine in terms of transfection efficacy and the catch-and-release surface modification strategy can be translated to other nanocarriers and surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph O Franck
- BioNano Engineering Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Philippa Fawcett Drive, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK.
| | - Andrea Bistrovic Popov
- BioNano Engineering Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Philippa Fawcett Drive, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK.
| | - Ishtiaq Ahmed
- BioNano Engineering Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Philippa Fawcett Drive, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK.
| | - Rachel E Hewitt
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Rd, Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK
| | - Luise Franslau
- Institut für Physikalische Chemie, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Tammanstraße 6, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Puneet Tyagi
- AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Ljiljana Fruk
- BioNano Engineering Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Philippa Fawcett Drive, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK.
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12
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Ren X, Su D, Shi D, Xiang X. The improving strategies and applications of nanotechnology-based drugs in hepatocellular carcinoma treatment. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1272850. [PMID: 37811369 PMCID: PMC10557528 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1272850] [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: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of tumor-related death worldwide. Conventional treatments for HCC include drugs, radiation, and surgery. Despite the unremitting efforts of researchers, the curative effect of HCC has been greatly improved, but because HCC is often found in the middle and late stages, the curative effect is still not satisfactory, and the 5-year survival rate is still low. Nanomedicine is a potential subject, which has been applied to the treatment of HCC and has achieved promising results. Here, we summarized the factors affecting the efficacy of drugs in HCC treatment and the strategies for improving the efficacy of nanotechnology-based drugs in HCC, reviewed the recent applications' progress on nanotechnology-based drugs in HCC treatment, and discussed the future perspectives and challenges of nanotechnology-based drugs in HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyang Ren
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Danyang Su
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Doudou Shi
- The Ninth Hospital of Xi’an, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaohong Xiang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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13
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Polash SA, Garlick-Trease K, Pyreddy S, Periasamy S, Bryant G, Shukla R. Amino Acid-Coated Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework for Delivery of Genetic Material in Prostate Cancer Cell. Molecules 2023; 28:4875. [PMID: 37375429 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28124875] [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: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are currently under progressive development as a tool for non-viral biomolecule delivery. Biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids can be encapsulated in MOFs for therapeutic purposes. The favorable physicochemical properties of MOFs make them an attractive choice for delivering a wide range of biomolecules including nucleic acids. Herein, a green fluorescence protein (GFP)-expressing plasmid DNA (pDNA) is used as a representative of a biomolecule to encapsulate within a Zn-based metal-organic framework (MOF) called a zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF). The synthesized biocomposites are coated with positively charged amino acids (AA) to understand the effect of surface functionalization on the delivery of pDNA to prostate cancer (PC-3) cells. FTIR and zeta potential confirm the successful preparation of positively charged amino acid-functionalized derivatives of pDNA@ZIF (i.e., pDNA@ZIFAA). Moreover, XRD and SEM data show that the functionalized derivates retain the pristine crystallinity and morphology of pDNA@ZIF. The coated biocomposites provide enhanced uptake of genetic material by PC-3 human prostate cancer cells. The AA-modulated fine-tuning of the surface charge of biocomposites results in better interaction with the cell membrane and enhances cellular uptake. These results suggest that pDNA@ZIFAA can be a promising alternative tool for non-viral gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakil Ahmed Polash
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Ian Potter NanoBiosensing Facility, NanoBiotechnology Research Laboratory (NBRL), RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | | | - Suneela Pyreddy
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Ian Potter NanoBiosensing Facility, NanoBiotechnology Research Laboratory (NBRL), RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Selvakannan Periasamy
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Industrial Chemistry, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Gary Bryant
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Ravi Shukla
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Ian Potter NanoBiosensing Facility, NanoBiotechnology Research Laboratory (NBRL), RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Industrial Chemistry, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
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14
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Wickline SA, Hou KK, Pan H. Peptide-Based Nanoparticles for Systemic Extrahepatic Delivery of Therapeutic Nucleotides. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119455. [PMID: 37298407 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119455] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide-based nanoparticles (PBN) for nucleotide complexation and targeting of extrahepatic diseases are gaining recognition as potent pharmaceutical vehicles for fine-tuned control of protein production (up- and/or down-regulation) and for gene delivery. Herein, we review the principles and mechanisms underpinning self-assembled formation of PBN, cellular uptake, endosomal release, and delivery to extrahepatic disease sites after systemic administration. Selected examples of PBN that have demonstrated recent proof of concept in disease models in vivo are summarized to offer the reader a comparative view of the field and the possibilities for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A Wickline
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medical Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
| | - Kirk K Hou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stein and Doheny Eye Institutes, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Hua Pan
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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15
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Leng Q, Imtiyaz Z, Woodle MC, Mixson AJ. Delivery of Chemotherapy Agents and Nucleic Acids with pH-Dependent Nanoparticles. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1482. [PMID: 37242725 PMCID: PMC10222096 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051482] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
With less than one percent of systemically injected nanoparticles accumulating in tumors, several novel approaches have been spurred to direct and release the therapy in or near tumors. One such approach depends on the acidic pH of the extracellular matrix and endosomes of the tumor. With an average pH of 6.8, the extracellular tumor matrix provides a gradient for pH-responsive particles to accumulate, enabling greater specificity. Upon uptake by tumor cells, nanoparticles are further exposed to lower pHs, reaching a pH of 5 in late endosomes. Based on these two acidic environments in the tumor, various pH-dependent targeting strategies have been employed to release chemotherapy or the combination of chemotherapy and nucleic acids from macromolecules such as the keratin protein or polymeric nanoparticles. We will review these release strategies, including pH-sensitive linkages between the carrier and hydrophobic chemotherapy agent, the protonation and disruption of polymeric nanoparticles, an amalgam of these first two approaches, and the release of polymers shielding drug-loaded nanoparticles. While several pH-sensitive strategies have demonstrated marked antitumor efficacy in preclinical trials, many studies are early in their development with several obstacles that may limit their clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qixin Leng
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, 10 S. Pine St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA (Z.I.)
| | - Zuha Imtiyaz
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, 10 S. Pine St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA (Z.I.)
| | | | - A. James Mixson
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, 10 S. Pine St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA (Z.I.)
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16
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Voltà-Durán E, Parladé E, Serna N, Villaverde A, Vazquez E, Unzueta U. Endosomal escape for cell-targeted proteins. Going out after going in. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 63:108103. [PMID: 36702197 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Protein-based nanocarriers are versatile and biocompatible drug delivery systems. They are of particular interest in nanomedicine as they can recruit multiple functions in a single modular polypeptide. Many cell-targeting peptides or protein domains can promote cell uptake when included in these nanoparticles through receptor-mediated endocytosis. In that way, targeting drugs to specific cell receptors allows a selective intracellular delivery process, avoiding potential side effects of the payload. However, once internalized, the endo-lysosomal route taken by the engulfed material usually results in full degradation, preventing their adequate subcellular localization, bioavailability and subsequent therapeutic effect. Thus, entrapment into endo-lysosomes is a main bottleneck in the efficacy of protein-drug nanomedicines. Promoting endosomal escape and preventing lysosomal degradation would make this therapeutic approach clinically plausible. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms intended to evade lysosomal degradation of proteins, with the most relevant examples and associated strategies, and the methods available to measure that effect. In addition, based on the increasing catalogue of peptide domains tailored to face this challenge as components of protein nanocarriers, we emphasize how their particular mechanisms of action can potentially alter the functionality of accompanying protein materials, especially in terms of targeting and specificity in the delivery process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Voltà-Durán
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Eloi Parladé
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Naroa Serna
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Antonio Villaverde
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
| | - Esther Vazquez
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
| | - Ugutz Unzueta
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), 08041 Barcelona, Spain; Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, 08916 Badalona, Spain.
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17
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Sadeqi Nezhad M. Poly (beta-amino ester) as an in vivo nanocarrier for therapeutic nucleic acids. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:95-113. [PMID: 36266918 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic nucleic acids are an emerging class of therapy for treating various diseases through immunomodulation, protein replacement, gene editing, and genetic engineering. However, they need a vector to effectively and safely reach the target cells. Most gene and cell therapies rely on ex vivo gene delivery, which is laborious, time-consuming, and costly; therefore, devising a systematic vector for effective and safe in vivo delivery of therapeutic nucleic acids is required to target the cells of interest in an efficient manner. Synthetic nanoparticle vector poly beta amino ester (PBAE), a class of degradable polymer, is a promising candidate for in vivo gene delivery. PBAE is considered the most potent in vivo vector due to its excellent transfection performance and biodegradability. PBAE nanoparticles showed tunable charge density, diverse structural characteristics, excellent encapsulation capacity, high stability, stimuli-responsive release, site-specific delivery, potent binding to nucleic acids, flexible binding ability to various conjugates, and effective endosomal escape. These unique properties of PBAE are an essential contribution to in vivo gene delivery. The current review discusses each of the components used for PBAE synthesis and the impact of various environmental and physicochemical factors of the body on PBAE nanocarrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Sadeqi Nezhad
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Translational Biomedical Science Department, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA.,Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA.,Department of Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
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18
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Imtiyaz Z, He J, Leng Q, Agrawal AK, Mixson AJ. pH-Sensitive Targeting of Tumors with Chemotherapy-Laden Nanoparticles: Progress and Challenges. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14112427. [PMID: 36365245 PMCID: PMC9692785 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating chemotherapeutic drugs such as doxorubicin within a tumor while limiting the drug dose to normal tissues is a central goal of drug delivery with nanoparticles. Liposomal products such as Doxil® represent one of the marked successes of nanoparticle-based strategies. To replicate this success for cancer treatment, many approaches with nanoparticles are being explored in order to direct and release chemotherapeutic agents to achieve higher accumulation in tumors. A promising approach has been stimulus-based therapy, such as the release of chemotherapeutic agents from the nanoparticles in the acidic environments of the tumor matrix or the tumor endosomes. Upon reaching the acidic environments of the tumor, the particles, which are made up of pH-dependent polymers, become charged and release the entrapped chemotherapy agents. This review discusses recent advances in and prospects for pH-dependent histidine-based nanoparticles that deliver chemotherapeutic agents to tumors. The strategies used by investigators include an array of histidine-containing peptides and polymers which form micelles, mixed micelles, nanovesicles, polyplexes, and coat particles. To date, several promising histidine-based nanoparticles have been demonstrated to produce marked inhibition of tumor growth, but challenges remain for successful outcomes in clinical trials. The lessons learned from these histidine-containing particles will provide insight in the development of improved pH-dependent polymeric delivery systems for chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuha Imtiyaz
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, 10 S. Pine St., University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Jiaxi He
- 20511 Seneca Meadows Pkwy, Suite 260, RNAimmune, Germantown, MD 20876, USA
| | - Qixin Leng
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, 10 S. Pine St., University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Atul K. Agrawal
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, 10 S. Pine St., University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - A. James Mixson
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, 10 S. Pine St., University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-410-706-3223; Fax: +1-410-706-8414
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19
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Gouthu S, Mandelli C, Eubanks BA, Deluc LG. Transgene-free genome editing and RNAi ectopic application in fruit trees: Potential and limitations. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:979742. [PMID: 36325537 PMCID: PMC9621297 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.979742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
For the past fifteen years, significant research advances in sequencing technology have led to a substantial increase in fruit tree genomic resources and databases with a massive number of OMICS datasets (transcriptomic, proteomics, metabolomics), helping to find associations between gene(s) and performance traits. Meanwhile, new technology tools have emerged for gain- and loss-of-function studies, specifically in gene silencing and developing tractable plant models for genetic transformation. Additionally, innovative and adapted transformation protocols have optimized genetic engineering in most fruit trees. The recent explosion of new gene-editing tools allows for broadening opportunities for functional studies in fruit trees. Yet, the fruit tree research community has not fully embraced these new technologies to provide large-scale genome characterizations as in cereals and other staple food crops. Instead, recent research efforts in the fruit trees appear to focus on two primary translational tools: transgene-free gene editing via Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) delivery and the ectopic application of RNA-based products in the field for crop protection. The inherent nature of the propagation system and the long juvenile phase of most fruit trees are significant justifications for the first technology. The second approach might have the public favor regarding sustainability and an eco-friendlier environment for a crop production system that could potentially replace the use of chemicals. Regardless of their potential, both technologies still depend on the foundational knowledge of gene-to-trait relationships generated from basic genetic studies. Therefore, we will discuss the status of gene silencing and DNA-based gene editing techniques for functional studies in fruit trees followed by the potential and limitations of their translational tools (RNP delivery and RNA-based products) in the context of crop production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satyanarayana Gouthu
- Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Christian Mandelli
- Oregon Wine Research Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Britt A. Eubanks
- Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Laurent G. Deluc
- Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Oregon Wine Research Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
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20
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Shueng PW, Yu LY, Hou HH, Chiu HC, Lo CL. Charge Conversion Polymer–Liposome Complexes to Overcome the Limitations of Cationic Liposomes in Mitochondrial-Targeting Drug Delivery. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063080. [PMID: 35328500 PMCID: PMC8954455 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial-targeting therapy is considered an important strategy for cancer treatment. (3-Carboxypropyl) triphenyl phosphonium (CTPP) is one of the candidate molecules that can drive drugs or nanomedicines to target mitochondria via electrostatic interactions. However, the mitochondrial-targeting effectiveness of CTPP is low. Therefore, pH-sensitive polymer–liposome complexes with charge-conversion copolymers and CTPP-containing cationic liposomes were designed for efficiently delivering an anti-cancer agent, ceramide, into cancer cellular mitochondria. The charge-conversion copolymers, methoxypoly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(methacrylic acid-g-histidine), were anionic and helped in absorbing and shielding the positive charges of cationic liposomes at pH 7.4. In contrast, charge-conversion copolymers became neutral in order to depart from cationic liposomes and induced endosomal escape for releasing cationic liposomes into cytosol at acidic endosomes. The experimental results reveal that these pH-sensitive polymer–liposome complexes could rapidly escape from MCF-7 cell endosomes and target MCF-7 mitochondria within 3 h, thereby leading to the generation of reactive oxygen species and cell apoptosis. These findings provide a promising solution for cationic liposomes in cancer mitochondrial-targeting drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Wei Shueng
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 220, Taiwan;
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Medical Device Innovation and Translation Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Lu-Yi Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (L.-Y.Y.); (H.-H.H.)
| | - Hsiao-Hsin Hou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (L.-Y.Y.); (H.-H.H.)
| | - Hsin-Cheng Chiu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan;
| | - Chun-Liang Lo
- Medical Device Innovation and Translation Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (L.-Y.Y.); (H.-H.H.)
- Correspondence:
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21
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Imidazole-Based pH-Sensitive Convertible Liposomes for Anticancer Drug Delivery. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15030306. [PMID: 35337105 PMCID: PMC8949415 DOI: 10.3390/ph15030306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In efforts to enhance the activity of liposomal drugs against solid tumors, three novel lipids that carry imidazole-based headgroups of incremental basicity were prepared and incorporated into the membrane of PEGylated liposomes containing doxorubicin (DOX) to render pH-sensitive convertible liposomes (ICL). The imidazole lipids were designed to protonate and cluster with negatively charged phosphatidylethanolamine-polyethylene glycol when pH drops from 7.4 to 6.0, thereby triggering ICL in acidic tumor interstitium. Upon the drop of pH, ICL gained more positive surface charges, displayed lipid phase separation in TEM and DSC, and aggregated with cell membrane-mimetic model liposomes. The drop of pH also enhanced DOX release from ICL consisting of one of the imidazole lipids, sn-2-((2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl)thio)-5-methyl-1H-imidazole. ICL demonstrated superior activities against monolayer cells and several 3D MCS than the analogous PEGylated, pH-insensitive liposomes containing DOX, which serves as a control and clinical benchmark. The presence of cholesterol in ICL enhanced their colloidal stability but diminished their pH-sensitivity. ICL with the most basic imidazole lipid showed the highest activity in monolayer Hela cells; ICL with the imidazole lipid of medium basicity showed the highest anticancer activity in 3D MCS. ICL that balances the needs of tissue penetration, cell-binding, and drug release would yield optimal activity against solid tumors.
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22
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Nanoscale delivery platforms for RNA therapeutics: Challenges and the current state of the art. MED 2022; 3:167-187. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medj.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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23
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Hooshmand SE, Sabet MJ, Hasanzadeh A, Mousavi SMK, Moghadam NH, Hooshmand SA, Rabiee N, Liu Y, Hamblin MR, Karimi M. Histidine‐enhanced gene delivery systems: The state of the art. J Gene Med 2022; 24:e3415. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Seyyed Emad Hooshmand
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center Iran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine Iran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Makkieh Jahanpeimay Sabet
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine Iran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Akbar Hasanzadeh
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine Iran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Seyede Mahtab Kamrani Mousavi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine Iran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Niloofar Haeri Moghadam
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine Iran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Seyed Aghil Hooshmand
- Laboratory of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics (LBB), Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics University of Tehran Tehran Iran
| | - Navid Rabiee
- Department of Physics Sharif University of Technology Tehran Iran
- School of Engineering Macquarie University Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Yong Liu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM) Soochow University Suzhou Jiangsu China
| | - Michael R. Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science University of Johannesburg South Africa
| | - Mahdi Karimi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center Iran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine Iran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
- Oncopathology Research Center Iran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
- Research Center for Science and Technology in Medicine Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
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Brodyagin N, Kataoka Y, Kumpina I, McGee DW, Rozners E. Cellular uptake of 2-aminopyridine-modified peptide nucleic acids conjugated with cell-penetrating peptides. Biopolymers 2021; 113:e23484. [PMID: 34914092 DOI: 10.1002/bip.23484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been extensively used to deliver peptide nucleic acid (PNA) in cells. We have previously found that replacement of cytosine in triplex-forming PNAs with 2-aminopyridine (M) not only enhanced RNA binding, but also improved cellular uptake of PNAs. In this study, we used confocal fluorescence microscopy to evaluate the ability of CPPs to further improve cellular uptake of M-modified PNAs. We found that PNAs conjugated with Tat and octa-arginine peptides were effectively taken up in MCF7 cells when supplied in cell media at 1 μM. Remarkably, M-modified PNA without any CPP conjugation also showed strong uptake when the concentration was increased to 5 μM. Majority of PNA conjugates remained localized in distinct cytoplasmic vesicles, as judged by dot-like fluorescence patterns. However, M-modified PNAs conjugated with Tat, octa-arginine, and even a simple tri-lysine peptide also showed dispersed fluorescence in cytoplasm and were taken up in nuclei where they localized in larger vesicles, most likely nucleoli. Endosomolytic peptides or chemicals (chloroquine and CaCl2 ) did not release the conjugates from cytosolic vesicles, which suggested that the PNAs were not entrapped in endosomes. We hypothesize that M-modified PNAs escape endosomes and accumulate in cellular compartments rich in RNA, such as nucleoli, stress granules, and P-bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita Brodyagin
- Department of Chemistry, Binghamton University, The State University of New York, Binghamton, New York, USA
| | - Yuka Kataoka
- Department of Chemistry, Binghamton University, The State University of New York, Binghamton, New York, USA
| | - Ilze Kumpina
- Department of Chemistry, Binghamton University, The State University of New York, Binghamton, New York, USA
| | - Dennis W McGee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Binghamton University, The State University of New York, Binghamton, New York, USA
| | - Eriks Rozners
- Department of Chemistry, Binghamton University, The State University of New York, Binghamton, New York, USA
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25
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VirPorters: Insights into the action of cationic and histidine-rich cell-penetrating peptides. Int J Pharm 2021; 611:121308. [PMID: 34800617 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121308] [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: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The utilization of nanoparticles for the intracellular delivery of theranostic agents faces one substantial limitation. Sequestration in intracellular vesicles prevents them from reaching the desired location in the cytoplasm or nucleus to deliver their cargo. We investigated whether three different cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), namely, octa-arginine R8, polyhistidine KH27K and histidine-rich LAH4, could promote cytosolic and/or nuclear transfer of unique model nanoparticles-pseudovirions derived from murine polyomavirus. Two types of CPP-modified pseudovirions that carry the luciferase reporter gene were created: VirPorters-IN with CPPs genetically attached to the capsid interior and VirPorters-EX with CPPs noncovalently associated with the capsid exterior. We tested their transduction ability by luciferase assay and monitored their presence in subcellular fractions. Our results confirmed the overall effect of CPPs on the intracellular destination of the particles and suggested that KH27K has the potential to improve the cytosolic release of pseudovirions. None of the VirPorters caused endomembrane damage detectable by the Galectin-3 assay. Remarkably, a noncovalent modification was required to promote high transduction of the reporter gene and cytosolic delivery of pseudovirions mediated by LAH4. Together, CPPs in different arrangements have demonstrated their potential to improve pseudovirion invasion into cells, and these findings could be useful for the development of other nanoparticle-based delivery systems.
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Krhač Levačić A, Berger S, Müller J, Wegner A, Lächelt U, Dohmen C, Rudolph C, Wagner E. Dynamic mRNA polyplexes benefit from bioreducible cleavage sites for in vitro and in vivo transfer. J Control Release 2021; 339:27-40. [PMID: 34547258 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Currently, messenger RNA (mRNA)-based lipid nanoparticle formulations revolutionize the clinical field. Cationic polymer-based complexes (polyplexes) represent an alternative compound class for mRNA delivery. After establishing branched polyethylenimine with a succinylation degree of 10% (succPEI) as highly effective positive mRNA transfection standard, a diverse library of PEI-like peptides termed sequence-defined oligoaminoamides (OAAs) was screened for mRNA delivery. Notably, sequences, which had previously been identified as potent plasmid DNA (pDNA) or small-interfering RNA (siRNA) carriers, displayed only moderate mRNA transfection activity. A second round of screening combined the cationizable building block succinoyl tetraethylene pentamine and histidines for endosomal buffering, tyrosine tripeptides and various fatty acids for mRNA polyplex stabilization, as well as redox-sensitive units for programmed intracellular release. For the tested OAA carriers, balancing of extracellular stability, endosomal lytic activity, and intracellular release capability was found to be of utmost importance for optimum mRNA transfection efficiency. OAAs with T-shape topology containing two oleic acids as well-stabilizing fatty acids, attached via a dynamic bioreducible building block, displayed superior activity with up to 1000-fold increased transfection efficiency compared to their non-reducible analogs. In the absence of the dynamic linkage, incorporation of shorter less stabilizing fatty acids could only partly compensate for mRNA delivery. Highest GFP expression and the largest fraction of transfected cells (96%) could be detected for the bioreducible OAA with incorporated histidines and a dioleoyl motif, outperforming all other tested carriers as well as the positive control succPEI. The good in vitro performance of the dynamic lead structure was verified in vivo upon intratracheal administration of mRNA complexes in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Krhač Levačić
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Simone Berger
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Judith Müller
- Ethris GmbH, Semmelweisstr. 3, Planegg D-82152, Germany
| | - Andrea Wegner
- Ethris GmbH, Semmelweisstr. 3, Planegg D-82152, Germany
| | - Ulrich Lächelt
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany.
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Xu S, He J, Imtiyaz Z, Agrawal AK, Woodle MC, Mixson AJ. Marked increase in tumor transfection with a truncated branched polymer. J Gene Med 2021; 24:e3396. [PMID: 34713552 PMCID: PMC8724455 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously determined that polyplexes formed by linear H2K peptides were more effective in transfecting tumors in vivo than polyplexes formed by branched H2K4b-20 peptides. Based on trypsin digest and salt displacement studies, the linear H2K polyplexes were less stable than the branched H2K4b-20 polyplexes. Because binding and release of the polymer and DNA from the H2K4b-20 polyplex may account for the ineffectiveness, we investigated whether four-branched histidine-lysine (HK) peptides with varying numbers of amino acids in their branches would be more effective in their ability to increase gene expression in tumors in vivo. METHODS Linear and branched peptides with multiple -KHHK- motifs were synthesized by solid-phase synthesis. The branched H2K4b-20, -18, -14 and 12 peptides had 20, 18, 14 and 12 amino acids in their branches, respectively. These peptides were examined for their ability to carry luciferase-expressing plasmids to human breast cancer xenografts in a mouse model. With gel retardation and in vivo transfection, the incorporation of a targeting ligand and an endosomal lysis peptide into these polyplexes was also examined. A blocking antibody was pre-injected prior to the polyplexes to determine the role of neuropilin 1 in the uptake of these polyplexes by the tumor. The size of the polyplexes was measured by dynamic light scattering. RESULTS Of the four negative surface-charge polyplexes formed by the branched carriers, the H2K4b-14 polyplex was determined to be the most effective plasmid delivery platform to tumors. The incorporation of a targeting ligand and an endosomal lysis peptide into H2K4b-14 polyplexes further enhanced their ability to transfect tumors in vivo. Furthermore, after pre-injecting tumor-bearing mice with a blocking antibody to the neuropilin-1 receptor (NRP-1), there was a marked reduction of tumor gene expression with the modified H2K4b-14 polyplexes, suggesting that NRP-1 mediated their transport into the tumor. CONCLUSIONS The present study established that branched peptides intermediate in length were very efficient in delivering plasmids to tumors in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songhui Xu
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jiaxi He
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zuha Imtiyaz
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Atul K Agrawal
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - A James Mixson
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
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28
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Wahane A, Malik S, Shih KC, Gaddam RR, Chen C, Liu Y, Nieh MP, Vikram A, Bahal R. Dual-Modality Poly-l-histidine Nanoparticles to Deliver Peptide Nucleic Acids and Paclitaxel for In Vivo Cancer Therapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:45244-45258. [PMID: 34524806 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c11981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cationic polymeric nanoformulations have been explored to increase the transfection efficiency of small molecules and nucleic acid-based drugs. However, an excessive positive charge density often leads to severe cell and tissue-based toxicity that restricts the clinical translation of cationic polymeric nanoformulations. Herein, we investigate a series of cationic poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-histidine-based nanoformulations for enhanced cytoplasmic delivery with minimal toxicity. PLGA/poly-l-histidine nanoparticles show promising physico-biochemical features and transfection efficiency in a series of in vitro and cell culture-based studies. Further, the use of acetone/dichloromethane as a solvent mixture during the formulation process significantly improves the morphology and size distribution of PLGA/poly-l-histidine nanoparticles. PLGA/poly-l-histidine nanoformulations undergo clathrin-mediated endocytosis. A contrast-matched small-angle neutron scattering experiment confirmed poly-l-histidine's distribution on the PLGA nanoformulations. PLGA/poly-l-histidine formulations containing paclitaxel as a small molecule-based drug and peptide nucleic acids targeting microRNA-155 as nucleic acid analog are efficacious in in vitro and in vivo studies. PLGA/poly-l-histidine NPs significantly decrease tumor growth in PNA-155 (∼6 fold) and paclitaxel (∼6.5 fold) treatment groups in a lymphoma cell line derived xenograft mice model without inducing any toxicity. Hence, PLGA/poly-l-histidine nanoformulations exhibit substantial transfection efficiency and are safe to deliver reagents ranging from small molecules to synthetic nucleic acid analogs and can serve as a novel platform for drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniket Wahane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Shipra Malik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Kuo-Chih Shih
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Ravinder Reddy Gaddam
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Chaohao Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Yun Liu
- NIST Center for Neutron Research, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
| | - Mu-Ping Nieh
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
- Polymer Program, Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, 191 Auditorium Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Ajit Vikram
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
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29
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Gosangi M, Ravula V, Rapaka H, Patri SV. α-Tocopherol-anchored gemini lipids with delocalizable cationic head groups: the effect of spacer length on DNA compaction and transfection properties. Org Biomol Chem 2021; 19:4565-4576. [PMID: 33954315 DOI: 10.1039/d1ob00475a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the role of structural units in cationic lipids used for gene delivery is essential in designing efficient gene delivery vehicles. Herein, we report a systematic structure-activity investigation on the influence of the spacer length on the DNA compaction ability and the transfection properties of gemini lipids with delocalizable cationic head groups. We have synthesized a series of dimeric cationic lipids varying in spacer length. The DNA binding interactions of liposomal formulations were characterized by gel electrophoresis and ethidium bromide (EtBr) exclusion assays. Condensation potentials were optimized and the best results were observed with cationic lipids possessing a 6 methylene spacer (TIM 6). We found that the size of the lipid/DNA complex decreased with the increase in spacer chain length up to a 6 methylene spacer TIM 6 and increased further. We have optimized the dimeric lipid/DOPE molar formulation using the β-galactosidase activity assay and found that the molar ratio of 1 : 1.5 (gemini lipid/DOPE) showed the maximum transfection among all molar ratios. The cellular uptake and co-localization of lipoplexes were observed by cell analysis and imaging using confocal microscopy. The results confirm that the lipoplex derived from lipid TIM 6 and pCMV-bgal/DNA internalizes via cellular endocytosis. The cytotoxicity studies using the MTT assay revealed that all formulations show comparable cell viability to the commercial standard even at higher charge ratios. Overall, the data suggest that the DNA compaction ability of these lipid dimers depends on the spacer chain length and the gemini lipid containing a six methylene aliphatic spacer has the maximum potential to deliver genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallikarjun Gosangi
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology, Warangal, 506004, Telangana, India.
| | - Venkatesh Ravula
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology, Warangal, 506004, Telangana, India.
| | - Hithavani Rapaka
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology, Warangal, 506004, Telangana, India.
| | - Srilakshmi V Patri
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology, Warangal, 506004, Telangana, India.
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30
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Berger S, Krhač Levačić A, Hörterer E, Wilk U, Benli-Hoppe T, Wang Y, Öztürk Ö, Luo J, Wagner E. Optimizing pDNA Lipo-polyplexes: A Balancing Act between Stability and Cargo Release. Biomacromolecules 2021; 22:1282-1296. [PMID: 33616407 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.0c01779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
When optimizing nanocarriers, structural motifs that are beneficial for the respective type of cargo need to be identified. Here, succinoyl tetraethylene pentamine (Stp)-based lipo-oligoaminoamides (OAAs) were optimized for the delivery of plasmid DNA (pDNA). Structural variations comprised saturated fatty acids with chain lengths between C2 and C18 and terminal cysteines as units promoting nanoparticle stabilization, histidines for endosomal buffering, and disulfide building blocks for redox-sensitive release. Biophysical and tumor cell culture screening established clear-cut relationships between lipo-OAAs and characteristics of the formed pDNA complexes. Based on the optimized alternating Stp-histidine backbones, lipo-OAAs containing fatty acids with chain lengths around C6 to C10 displayed maximum gene transfer with around 500-fold higher gene expression than that of C18 lipo-OAA analogues. Promising lipo-OAAs, however, showed only moderate in vivo efficiency. In vitro testing in 90% full serum, revealing considerable inhibition of lytic and gene-transfer activity, was found as a new screening model predictive for intravenous applications in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Berger
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for Nanoscience, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, Munich 81377, Germany
| | - Ana Krhač Levačić
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for Nanoscience, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, Munich 81377, Germany
| | - Elisa Hörterer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for Nanoscience, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, Munich 81377, Germany
| | - Ulrich Wilk
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for Nanoscience, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, Munich 81377, Germany
| | - Teoman Benli-Hoppe
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for Nanoscience, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, Munich 81377, Germany
| | - Yanfang Wang
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for Nanoscience, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, Munich 81377, Germany
| | - Özgür Öztürk
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for Nanoscience, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, Munich 81377, Germany
| | - Jie Luo
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for Nanoscience, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, Munich 81377, Germany
| | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for Nanoscience, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, Munich 81377, Germany
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31
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He J, Xu S, Leng Q, Mixson AJ. Location of a single histidine within peptide carriers increases mRNA delivery. J Gene Med 2020; 23:e3295. [PMID: 33171540 PMCID: PMC7900953 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previously, we determined that four-branched histidine-lysine (HK) peptides were effective carriers of plasmids and small interfering RNA. In the present study, we compared several branched HK carriers and, in particular, two closely-related H3K4b and H3K(+H)4b peptides for their ability as carriers of mRNA. The H3K(+H)4b peptide differed from its parent analogue, H3K4b, by only a single histidine in each branch. METHODS A series of four-branched HK peptides with varied sequences was synthesized on a solid-phase peptide synthesizer. The ability of these peptides to carry mRNA expressing luciferase to MDA-MB-231 cells was investigated. With gel retardation and heparin displacement assays, the stability of HK polyplexes was examined. We determined the intracellular uptake of HK polyplexes by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. The size and polydispersity index of the polyplexes in several media were measured by dynamic light scattering. RESULTS MDA-MB-231 cells transfected by H3K(+H)4b-mRNA polyplexes expressed 10-fold greater levels of luciferase than H3K4b polyplexes. With gel retardation and heparin displacement assays, the H3K(+H)4b polyplexes showed greater stability than H3K4b. Intracellular uptake and co-localization of H3K(+H)4b polyplexes within acidic endosomes were also significantly increased compared to H3K4b. Similar to H3K(+H)4b, several HK analogues with an additional histidine in the second domain of their branches were effective carriers of mRNA. When combined with DOTAP liposomes, H3K(+H)4b was synergistic in delivery of mRNA. CONCLUSIONS H3K(+H)4b was a more effective carrier of mRNA than H3K4b. Mechanistic studies suggest that H3K(+H)4b polyplexes were more stable than H3K4b polyplexes. Lipopolyplexes formed with H3K(+H)4b markedly increased mRNA transfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxi He
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Songhui Xu
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Qixin Leng
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - A James Mixson
- Department of Pathology, University Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
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