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Bai X, Chen Q, Li F, Teng Y, Tang M, Huang J, Xu X, Zhang XQ. Optimized inhaled LNP formulation for enhanced treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis via mRNA-mediated antibody therapy. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6844. [PMID: 39122711 PMCID: PMC11315999 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51056-8] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticle-assisted mRNA inhalation therapy necessitates addressing challenges such as resistance to shear force damage, mucus penetration, cellular internalization, rapid lysosomal escape, and target protein expression. Here, we introduce the innovative "LOOP" platform with a four-step workflow to develop inhaled lipid nanoparticles specifically for pulmonary mRNA delivery. iLNP-HP08LOOP featuring a high helper lipid ratio, acidic dialysis buffer, and excipient-assisted nebulization buffer, demonstrates exceptional stability and enhanced mRNA expression in the lungs. By incorporating mRNA encoding IL-11 single chain fragment variable (scFv), scFv@iLNP-HP08LOOP effectively delivers and secretes IL-11 scFv to the lungs of male mice, significantly inhibiting fibrosis. This formulation surpasses both inhaled and intravenously injected IL-11 scFv in inhibiting fibroblast activation and extracellular matrix deposition. The HP08LOOP system is also compatible with commercially available ALC0315 LNPs. Thus, the "LOOP" method presents a powerful platform for developing inhaled mRNA nanotherapeutics with potential for treating various respiratory diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Bai
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qijing Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fengqiao Li
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Yilong Teng
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Maoping Tang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Huang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyang Xu
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, USA.
| | - Xue-Qing Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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2
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Dussouillez C, Lointier M, Sebane MK, Fournel S, Bechinger B, Kichler A. N-terminal modification of an LAH4-derived peptide increases mRNA delivery in the presence of serum. J Pept Sci 2024; 30:e3597. [PMID: 38523558 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3597] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
The recently developed mRNA-based coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 vaccines highlighted the great therapeutic potential of the mRNA technology. Although the lipid nanoparticles used for the delivery of the mRNA are very efficient, they showed, in some cases, the induction of side effects as well as the production of antibodies directed against particle components. Thus, the development of alternative delivery systems is of great interest in the pursuit of more effective mRNA treatments. In the present work, we evaluated the mRNA transfection capacities of a series of cationic histidine-rich amphipathic peptides derived from LAH4. We found that while the LAH4-A1 peptide was an efficient carrier for mRNA, its activity was highly serum sensitive. Interestingly, modification of this cell penetrating peptide at the N-terminus with two tyrosines or with salicylic acid allowed to confer serum resistance to the carrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candice Dussouillez
- Laboratoire de Conception et Application de Molécules Bioactives UMR7199 CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, 3BioTeam, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
- Inserm UMR_S 1121, EMR 7003 CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Centre de Recherche en Biomédecine de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Morane Lointier
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, UMR7177, Institut de Chimie, Strasbourg, France
| | - Mohammed-Karim Sebane
- Laboratoire de Conception et Application de Molécules Bioactives UMR7199 CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, 3BioTeam, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
- Inserm UMR_S 1121, EMR 7003 CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Centre de Recherche en Biomédecine de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Sylvie Fournel
- Laboratoire de Conception et Application de Molécules Bioactives UMR7199 CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, 3BioTeam, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
- Inserm UMR_S 1121, EMR 7003 CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Centre de Recherche en Biomédecine de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Burkhard Bechinger
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, UMR7177, Institut de Chimie, Strasbourg, France
| | - Antoine Kichler
- Laboratoire de Conception et Application de Molécules Bioactives UMR7199 CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, 3BioTeam, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
- Inserm UMR_S 1121, EMR 7003 CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Centre de Recherche en Biomédecine de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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3
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Dowaidar M. Uptake pathways of cell-penetrating peptides in the context of drug delivery, gene therapy, and vaccine development. Cell Signal 2024; 117:111116. [PMID: 38408550 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111116] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides have been extensively utilized for the purpose of facilitating the intracellular delivery of cargo that is impermeable to the cell membrane. The researchers have exhibited proficient delivery capabilities for oligonucleotides, thereby establishing cell-penetrating peptides as a potent instrument in the field of gene therapy. Furthermore, they have demonstrated a high level of efficiency in delivering several additional payloads. Cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) possess the capability to efficiently transport therapeutic molecules to specific cells, hence offering potential remedies for many illnesses. Hence, their utilization is imperative for the improvement of therapeutic vaccines. In contemporary studies, a plethora of cell-penetrating peptides have been unveiled, each characterized by its own distinct structural attributes and associated mechanisms. Although it is widely acknowledged that there are multiple pathways through which particles might be internalized, a comprehensive understanding of the specific mechanisms by which these particles enter cells has to be fully elucidated. The absorption of cell-penetrating peptides can occur through either direct translocation or endocytosis. However, it is worth noting that categories of cell-penetrating peptides are not commonly linked to specific entrance mechanisms. Furthermore, research has demonstrated that cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) possess the capacity to enhance antigen uptake by cells and facilitate the traversal of various biological barriers. The primary objective of this work is to examine the mechanisms by which cell-penetrating peptides are internalized by cells and their significance in facilitating the administration of drugs, particularly in the context of gene therapy and vaccine development. The current study investigates the immunostimulatory properties of numerous vaccine components administered using different cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs). This study encompassed a comprehensive discussion on various topics, including the uptake pathways and mechanisms of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), the utilization of CPPs as innovative vectors for gene therapy, the role of CPPs in vaccine development, and the potential of CPPs for antigen delivery in the context of vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moataz Dowaidar
- Bioengineering Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia; Interdisciplinary Research Center for Hydrogen Technologies and Carbon Management, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia; Biosystems and Machines Research Center, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia.
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4
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Zhou F, Huang L, Li S, Yang W, Chen F, Cai Z, Liu X, Xu W, Lehto V, Lächelt U, Huang R, Shi Y, Lammers T, Tao W, Xu ZP, Wagner E, Xu Z, Yu H. From structural design to delivery: mRNA therapeutics for cancer immunotherapy. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2024; 4:20210146. [PMID: 38855617 PMCID: PMC11022630 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20210146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
mRNA therapeutics have emerged as powerful tools for cancer immunotherapy in accordance with their superiority in expressing all sequence-known proteins in vivo. In particular, with a small dosage of delivered mRNA, antigen-presenting cells (APCs) can synthesize mutant neo-antigens and multi-antigens and present epitopes to T lymphocytes to elicit antitumor effects. In addition, expressing receptors like chimeric antigen receptor (CAR), T-cell receptor (TCR), CD134, and immune-modulating factors including cytokines, interferons, and antibodies in specific cells can enhance immunological response against tumors. With the maturation of in vitro transcription (IVT) technology, large-scale and pure mRNA encoding specific proteins can be synthesized quickly. However, the clinical translation of mRNA-based anticancer strategies is restricted by delivering mRNA into target organs or cells and the inadequate endosomal escape efficiency of mRNA. Recently, there have been some advances in mRNA-based cancer immunotherapy, which can be roughly classified as modifications of the mRNA structure and the development of delivery systems, especially the lipid nanoparticle platforms. In this review, the latest strategies for overcoming the limitations of mRNA-based cancer immunotherapies and the recent advances in delivering mRNA into specific organs and cells are summarized. Challenges and opportunities for clinical applications of mRNA-based cancer immunotherapy are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Lujia Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Shiqin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Wenfang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Fangmin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Zhixiong Cai
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian ProvinceMengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Xiaolong Liu
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian ProvinceMengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Wujun Xu
- Department of Applied PhysicsUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFinland
| | - Vesa‐Pekka Lehto
- Department of Applied PhysicsUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFinland
| | - Ulrich Lächelt
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Rongqin Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug DeliveryMinistry of Education, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yang Shi
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular ImagingRWTH Aachen University ClinicAachenGermany
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular ImagingRWTH Aachen University ClinicAachenGermany
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Zhi Ping Xu
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering and Institute of Systems and Physical BiologyShenzhen Bay LaboratoryShenzhenChina
| | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for NanoscienceLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversitätMunichGermany
| | - Zhiai Xu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Haijun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
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5
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Vuong HL, Lan CT, Le HTT. The development and technologies of RNA therapeutics. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 203:13-39. [PMID: 38359995 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Since it was discovered for over 20 years ago, the potentiality of siRNAs in gene silencing in vitro and in vivo models has been recognized. Several studies in the new generation, molecular mechanisms, target attachment, and purification of RNA have supported the development of RNA therapeutics for a variety of applications. RNA therapeutics are growing rapidly with various platforms contributing to the standard of personalized medicine and rare disease treatment. Therefore, understanding the development and technologies of RNA therapeutics becomes a crucial point for new drug generation. Here, the primary purpose of this review is to provide a general view of six therapeutic categories that make up RNA-based therapeutic approaches, including RNA-target therapeutics, protein-targeted therapeutics, cellular reprogramming and tissues engineering, RNA-based protein replacement therapeutics, RNA-based genome editing, and RNA-based immunotherapies based on non-coding RNAs and coding RNA. Furthermore, we present an overview of the RNA strategies regarding viral approaches and nonviral approaches in designing a new generation of RNA technologies. The advantages and challenges of using RNA therapeutics are also discussed along with various approaches for RNA delivery. Therefore, this review is designed to provide updated reference evidence of RNA therapeutics in the battle against rare or difficult-to-treat diseases for researchers in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huong Lan Vuong
- Pharmacy Department, National Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Chu Thanh Lan
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Tissue Regeneration, College of Medicine, Soonchunghyang University, South Korea
| | - Hien Thi Thu Le
- Intestinal Signaling and Epigenetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
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6
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Malla R, Srilatha M, Farran B, Nagaraju GP. mRNA vaccines and their delivery strategies: A journey from infectious diseases to cancer. Mol Ther 2024; 32:13-31. [PMID: 37919901 PMCID: PMC10787123 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.10.024] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have evolved as promising cancer therapies. These vaccines can encode tumor-allied antigens, thus enabling personalized treatment approaches. They can also target cancer-specific mutations and overcome immune evasion mechanisms. They manipulate the body's cellular functions to produce antigens, elicit immune responses, and suppress tumors by overcoming limitations associated with specific histocompatibility leukocyte antigen molecules. However, successfully delivering mRNA into target cells destroys a crucial challenge. Viral and nonviral vectors (lipid nanoparticles and cationic liposomes) have shown great capacity in protecting mRNA from deterioration and assisting in cellular uptake. Cell-penetrating peptides, hydrogels, polymer-based nanoparticles, and dendrimers have been investigated to increase the delivery efficacy and immunogenicity of mRNA. This comprehensive review explores the landscape of mRNA vaccines and their delivery platforms for cancer, addressing design considerations, diverse delivery strategies, and recent advancements. Overall, this review contributes to the progress of mRNA vaccines as an innovative strategy for effective cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- RamaRao Malla
- Cancer Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, GITAM School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam 530045, AP, India
| | - Mundla Srilatha
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati 517502, AP, India
| | - Batoul Farran
- Department of Oncology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Ganji Purnachandra Nagaraju
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA.
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7
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Li X, Qi J, Wang J, Hu W, Zhou W, Wang Y, Li T. Nanoparticle technology for mRNA: Delivery strategy, clinical application and developmental landscape. Theranostics 2024; 14:738-760. [PMID: 38169577 PMCID: PMC10758055 DOI: 10.7150/thno.84291] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The mRNA vaccine, a groundbreaking advancement in the field of immunology, has garnered international recognition by being awarded the prestigious Nobel Prize, which has emerged as a promising prophylactic and therapeutic modality for various diseases, especially in cancer, rare disease, and infectious disease such as COVID-19, wherein successful mRNA treatment can be achieved by improving the stability of mRNA and introducing a safe and effective delivery system. Nanotechnology-based delivery systems, such as lipid nanoparticles, lipoplexes, polyplexes, lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles and others, have attracted great interest and have been explored for mRNA delivery. Nanoscale platforms can protect mRNA from extracellular degradation while promoting endosome escape after endocytosis, hence improving the efficacy. This review provides an overview of diverse nanoplatforms utilized for mRNA delivery in preclinical and clinical stages, including formulation, preparation process, transfection efficiency, and administration route. Furthermore, the market situation and prospects of mRNA vaccines are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Formulation and Process Development (FPD), WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| | - Jing Qi
- Formulation and Process Development (FPD), WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Formulation and Process Development (FPD), WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| | - Weiwei Hu
- WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| | - Weichang Zhou
- WuXi Biologics, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Formulation and Process Development (FPD), WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| | - Tao Li
- Formulation and Process Development (FPD), WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
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8
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Ebrahimi N, Manavi MS, Nazari A, Momayezi A, Faghihkhorasani F, Rasool Riyadh Abdulwahid AH, Rezaei-Tazangi F, Kavei M, Rezaei R, Mobarak H, Aref AR, Fang W. Nano-scale delivery systems for siRNA delivery in cancer therapy: New era of gene therapy empowered by nanotechnology. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 239:117263. [PMID: 37797672 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a unique treatment approach used to decrease a disease's excessive gene expression, including cancer. SiRNAs may find and destroy homologous mRNA sequences within the cell thanks to RNAi processes. However, difficulties such poor cellular uptake, off-target effects, and susceptibility to destruction by serum nucleases in the bloodstream restrict the therapeutic potential of siRNAs. Since some years ago, siRNA-based therapies have been in the process of being translated into the clinic. Therefore, the primary emphasis of this work is on sophisticated nanocarriers that aid in the transport of siRNA payloads, their administration in combination with anticancer medications, and their use in the treatment of cancer. The research looks into molecular manifestations, difficulties with siRNA transport, the design and development of siRNA-based delivery methods, and the benefits and drawbacks of various nanocarriers. The trapping of siRNA in endosomes is a challenge for the majority of delivery methods, which affects the therapeutic effectiveness. Numerous techniques for siRNA release, including as pH-responsive release, membrane fusion, the proton sponge effect, and photochemical disruption, have been studied to overcome this problem. The present state of siRNA treatments in clinical trials is also looked at in order to give a thorough and systematic evaluation of siRNA-based medicines for efficient cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Ebrahimi
- Genetics Division, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Ahmad Nazari
- Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirali Momayezi
- School of Chemical Engineering, Iran University of Science, and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Fatemeh Rezaei-Tazangi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Science, Fasa, Iran
| | - Mohammed Kavei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Arak University, Arak, Iran
| | - Roya Rezaei
- Department of Microbiology, College of Science, Agriculture and Modern Technology, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Halimeh Mobarak
- Clinical Pathologist, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Xsphera Biosciences, Translational Medicine Group, 6 Tide Street, Boston, MA, 02210, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Wei Fang
- Department of Laser and Aesthetic Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Hasan M, Khatun A, Kogure K. Intradermal Delivery of Naked mRNA Vaccines via Iontophoresis. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2678. [PMID: 38140019 PMCID: PMC10747697 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122678] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines against infectious diseases and for anticancer immunotherapy have garnered considerable attention. Currently, mRNA vaccines encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles are administrated via intramuscular injection using a needle. However, such administration is associated with pain, needle phobia, and lack of patient compliance. Furthermore, side effects such as fever and anaphylaxis associated with the lipid nanoparticle components are also serious problems. Therefore, noninvasive, painless administration of mRNA vaccines that do not contain other problematic components is highly desirable. Antigen-presenting cells reside in the epidermis and dermis, making the skin an attractive vaccination site. Iontophoresis (ItP) uses weak electric current applied to the skin surface and offers a noninvasive permeation technology that enables intradermal delivery of hydrophilic and ionic substances. ItP-mediated intradermal delivery of biological macromolecules has also been studied. Herein, we review the literature on the use of ItP technology for intradermal delivery of naked mRNA vaccines which is expected to overcome the challenges associated with mRNA vaccination. In addition to the physical mechanism, we discuss novel biological mechanisms of iontophoresis, particularly ItP-mediated opening of the skin barriers and the intracellular uptake pathway, and how the combined mechanisms can allow for effective intradermal delivery of mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahadi Hasan
- Department of Animal Disease Model, Research Center for Experimental Modeling Human Disease, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan; (M.H.); (A.K.)
| | - Anowara Khatun
- Department of Animal Disease Model, Research Center for Experimental Modeling Human Disease, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan; (M.H.); (A.K.)
| | - Kentaro Kogure
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
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10
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Bai C, Wang C, Lu Y. Novel Vectors and Administrations for mRNA Delivery. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2303713. [PMID: 37475520 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202303713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
mRNA therapy has shown great potential in infectious disease vaccines, cancer immunotherapy, protein replacement therapy, gene editing, and other fields due to its central role in all life processes. However, mRNA is challenging to pass through the cell membrane due to its significant negative charges and degradation from RNase, so the key to mRNA therapy is efficient packaging and delivery of it with appropriate vectors. Presently researchers have developed various vectors such as viruses and liposomes, but these conventional vectors are now difficult to meet the growing requirement like safety, efficiency, and targeting, so many novel delivery vectors with unique advantages have emerged recently. This review mainly introduces two categories of novel vectors: biomacromolecules and inorganic nanoparticles, as well as two novel methods of control and administration based on these novel vectors: controlled-release administration and non-invasive administration. These novel delivery strategies have the advantages of high safety, biocompatibility, versatility, intelligence, and targeting. This paper analyzes the challenges faced by the field of mRNA delivery in depth, and discusses how to use the characteristics of novel vectors and administrations to solve these problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenghai Bai
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
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11
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Wang YS, Kumari M, Chen GH, Hong MH, Yuan JPY, Tsai JL, Wu HC. mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics: an in-depth survey of current and upcoming clinical applications. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:84. [PMID: 37805495 PMCID: PMC10559634 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-023-00977-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA-based drugs have tremendous potential as clinical treatments, however, a major challenge in realizing this drug class will promise to develop methods for safely delivering the bioactive agents with high efficiency and without activating the immune system. With regard to mRNA vaccines, researchers have modified the mRNA structure to enhance its stability and promote systemic tolerance of antigenic presentation in non-inflammatory contexts. Still, delivery of naked modified mRNAs is inefficient and results in low levels of antigen protein production. As such, lipid nanoparticles have been utilized to improve delivery and protect the mRNA cargo from extracellular degradation. This advance was a major milestone in the development of mRNA vaccines and dispelled skepticism about the potential of this technology to yield clinically approved medicines. Following the resounding success of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19, many other mRNA-based drugs have been proposed for the treatment of a variety of diseases. This review begins with a discussion of mRNA modifications and delivery vehicles, as well as the factors that influence administration routes. Then, we summarize the potential applications of mRNA-based drugs and discuss further key points pertaining to preclinical and clinical development of mRNA drugs targeting a wide range of diseases. Finally, we discuss the latest market trends and future applications of mRNA-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Shiuan Wang
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Monika Kumari
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Hong Chen
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsiang Hong
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Joyce Pei-Yi Yuan
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Ling Tsai
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chung Wu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan.
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan.
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12
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Klipp A, Burger M, Leroux JC. Get out or die trying: Peptide- and protein-based endosomal escape of RNA therapeutics. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 200:115047. [PMID: 37536508 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
RNA therapeutics offer great potential to transform the biomedical landscape, encompassing the treatment of hereditary conditions and the development of better vaccines. However, the delivery of RNAs into the cell is hampered, among others, by poor endosomal escape. This major hurdle is often tackled using special lipids, polymers, or protein-based delivery vectors. In this review, we will focus on the most prominent peptide- and protein-based endosomal escape strategies with focus on RNA drugs. We discuss cell penetrating peptides, which are still incorporated into novel transfection systems today to promote endosomal escape. However, direct evidence for enhanced endosomal escape by the action of such peptides is missing and their transfection efficiency, even in permissive cell culture conditions, is rather low. Endosomal escape by the help of pore forming proteins or phospholipases, on the other hand, allowed to generate more efficient transfection systems. These are, however, often hampered by considerable toxicity and immunogenicity. We conclude that the perfect enhancer of endosomal escape has yet to be devised. To increase the chances of success, any new transfection system should be tested under relevant conditions and guided by assays that allow direct quantification of endosomal escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Klipp
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Michael Burger
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Jean-Christophe Leroux
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
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13
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Wei HH, Zheng L, Wang Z. mRNA therapeutics: New vaccination and beyond. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 3:749-759. [PMID: 38933291 PMCID: PMC10017382 DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2023.02.022] [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: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The idea of mRNA therapy had been conceived for decades before it came into reality during the Covid-19 pandemic. The mRNA vaccine emerges as a powerful and general tool against new viral infections, largely due to its versatility and rapid development. In addition to prophylactic vaccines, mRNA technology also offers great promise for new applications as a versatile drug modality. However, realizing the conceptual potential faces considerable challenges, such as minimal immune stimulation, high and long-term expression, and efficient delivery to target cells and tissues. Here we review the applications of mRNA-based therapeutics, with emphasis on the innovative design and future challenges/solutions. In addition, we also discuss the next generation of mRNA therapy, including circular mRNA and self-amplifying RNAs. We aim to provide a conceptual overview and outlook on mRNA therapeutics beyond prophylactic vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Huan Wei
- Bio-med Big Data Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai 200032, China
| | | | - Zefeng Wang
- Bio-med Big Data Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai 200032, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
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14
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Kong B, Kim Y, Kim EH, Suk JS, Yang Y. mRNA: A promising platform for cancer immunotherapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 199:114993. [PMID: 37414361 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114993] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is now in the limelight as a powerful tool for treating various human diseases, especially malignant tumors, thanks to the remarkable clinical outcomes of mRNA vaccines using lipid nanoparticle technology during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent promising preclinical and clinical results that epitomize the advancement in mRNA and nanoformulation-based delivery technologies have highlighted the tremendous potential of mRNA in cancer immunotherapy. mRNAs can be harnessed for cancer immunotherapy in forms of various therapeutic modalities, including cancer vaccines, adoptive T-cell therapies, therapeutic antibodies, and immunomodulatory proteins. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and prospects of mRNA-based therapeutics, including numerous delivery and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byoungjae Kong
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Yelee Kim
- Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Hye Kim
- Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Soo Suk
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
| | - Yoosoo Yang
- Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Al Fayez N, Nassar MS, Alshehri AA, Alnefaie MK, Almughem FA, Alshehri BY, Alawad AO, Tawfik EA. Recent Advancement in mRNA Vaccine Development and Applications. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1972. [PMID: 37514158 PMCID: PMC10384963 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine development for preventive and therapeutic applications has evolved rapidly over the last decade. The mRVNA vaccine has proven therapeutic efficacy in various applications, including infectious disease, immunotherapy, genetic disorders, regenerative medicine, and cancer. Many mRNA vaccines have made it to clinical trials, and a couple have obtained FDA approval. This emerging therapeutic approach has several advantages over conventional methods: safety; efficacy; adaptability; bulk production; and cost-effectiveness. However, it is worth mentioning that the delivery to the target site and in vivo degradation and thermal stability are boundaries that can alter their efficacy and outcomes. In this review, we shed light on different types of mRNA vaccines, their mode of action, and the process to optimize their development and overcome their limitations. We also have explored various delivery systems focusing on the nanoparticle-mediated delivery of the mRNA vaccine. Generally, the delivery system plays a vital role in enhancing mRNA vaccine stability, biocompatibility, and homing to the desired cells and tissues. In addition to their function as a delivery vehicle, they serve as a compartment that shields and protects the mRNA molecules against physical, chemical, and biological activities that can alter their efficiency. Finally, we focused on the future considerations that should be attained for safer and more efficient mRNA application underlining the advantages and disadvantages of the current mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nojoud Al Fayez
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed S Nassar
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A Alshehri
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Meshal K Alnefaie
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad A Almughem
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bayan Y Alshehri
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah O Alawad
- Healthy Aging Research Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Essam A Tawfik
- Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics Institute, Health Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Truong LB, Medina-Cruz D, Mostafavi E. Current state of RNA delivery using lipid nanoparticles to extrahepatic tissues: A review towards clinical translation. Int J Biol Macromol 2023:125185. [PMID: 37276899 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125185] [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: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Genetic medicine, including ribonucleic acid (RNA) therapy, has delivered numerous progresses to the treatment of diseases thanks to the development of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as a delivery vehicle. However, RNA therapeutics are still limited by the lack of safe, precise, and efficient delivery outside of the liver. Thus, to fully realize the potential of genetic medicine, strategies to arm LNPs with extrahepatic targeting capabilities are urgently needed. This review explores the current state of next-generation LNPs that can bring RNA biomolecules to their targeted organ. The main approaches commonly used are described, including the modulation of internal lipid chemistries, the use of conjugated targeting moieties, and the designs of clinical administration. This work will demonstrate the advances in each approach and the remaining challenges in the field, focusing on clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linh B Truong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - David Medina-Cruz
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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17
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Elizarova TN, Antopolsky ML, Novichikhin DO, Skirda AM, Orlov AV, Bragina VA, Nikitin PI. A Straightforward Method for the Development of Positively Charged Gold Nanoparticle-Based Vectors for Effective siRNA Delivery. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28083318. [PMID: 37110552 PMCID: PMC10144622 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28083318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of short interfering RNA (siRNA) to treat many diseases that are incurable with traditional preparations is limited by the extensive metabolism of serum nucleases, low permeability through biological membrane barriers because of a negative charge, and endosomal trapping. Effective delivery vectors are required to overcome these challenges without causing unwanted side effects. Here, we present a relatively simple synthetic protocol to obtain positively charged gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with narrow size distribution and the surface modified with Tat-related cell-penetrating peptide. The AuNPs were characterized using TEM and the localized surface plasmon resonance technique. The synthesized AuNPs showed low toxicity in experiments in vitro and were able to effectively form complexes with double-stranded siRNA. The obtained delivery vehicles were used for intracellular delivery of siRNA in an ARPE-19 cell line transfected with secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase (SEAP). The delivered oligonucleotide remained intact and caused a significant knockdown effect on SEAP cell production. The developed material could be useful for delivery of negatively charged macromolecules, such as antisense oligonucleotides and various RNAs, particularly for retinal pigment epithelial cell drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana N Elizarova
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Maxim L Antopolsky
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Denis O Novichikhin
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow Engineering Physics Institute), 115409 Moscow, Russia
| | - Artemiy M Skirda
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow Engineering Physics Institute), 115409 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey V Orlov
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vera A Bragina
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Petr I Nikitin
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow Engineering Physics Institute), 115409 Moscow, Russia
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18
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The Development of Cell-Penetrating Peptides for Efficient and Selective In Vivo Expression of mRNA in Spleen Tissue. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030952. [PMID: 36986813 PMCID: PMC10055000 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA-based therapeutics are presently one of the nucleic acid-based therapeutics with a high potential for extraordinary success as preventive vaccines. Current applications with mRNA therapeutics rely on lipid nanoparticle (LNP) mediated delivery of nucleic acids. In order to achieve the transition from preventive to therapeutic vaccines, there is a challenge of delivering the mRNA into non-hepatic tissues, especially into lymphoid tissues such as the spleen and lymph nodes. In this work, we characterize new cell-penetrating peptides NF424 and NF436 that exhibit preferential delivery of mRNA into the spleen after a single i.v. injection, without the use of any active targeting mechanisms. We show that between the spleen, liver, and the lungs, >95% of mRNA expression arises in the spleen tissue and the majority of expression occurs in the dendritic cells. The cell-penetrating peptides NF424 and NF436 represent promising candidates for cancer immunotherapeutic applications with tumor antigens.
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19
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Drexler CI, Cyran JD, Webb LJ. Lipid-Specific Direct Translocation of the Cell-Penetrating Peptide NAF-1 44-67 across Bilayer Membranes. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:2002-2010. [PMID: 36827970 PMCID: PMC10127249 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.2c08076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
The cell-penetrating peptide NAF-1 has recently emerged as a promising candidate for selective penetration and destruction of cancer cells. It displays numerous membrane-selective behaviors including cell-specific uptake and organelle-specific degradation. In this work, we explore membrane penetration and translocation of NAF-1 in model lipid bilayer vesicles as a function of lipid identity in zwitterionic phosphatidylcholine lipids mixed with anionic phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylglycerol, and phosphatidic acid lipids. By monitoring the digestion of NAF-1 using the protease trypsin located inside but not outside the vesicles, we determined that the translocation of NAF-1 was significantly enhanced by the presence of phosphatidic acid in the membrane compared to the other three anionic or zwitterionic lipids. These findings were correlated to fluorescence measurements of dansyl-labeled NAF-1, which revealed whether noncovalent interactions between NAF-1 and the bilayer were most stable either at the membrane/solution interface or within the membrane interior. Phosphatidic acid promoted interactions with fatty acid tails, while phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylserine, and phosphatidylglycerol stabilized interactions with polar lipid headgroups. Interfacial vibrational sum frequency spectroscopy experiments revealed that the phosphate moiety on phosphatidic acid headgroups was better hydrated than on the other three lipids, which helped to shuttle NAF-1 into the hydrophobic region. Our findings demonstrate that permeation does not depend on the net charge on phospholipid lipid headgroups in these model vesicles and suggest a model wherein NAF-1 crosses membranes selectively due to lipid-specific interactions at bilayer surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad I Drexler
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Jenée D Cyran
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Baylor University, Waco, Texas 76706, United States
| | - Lauren J Webb
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
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20
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Zhang Y, Liu C, Wu C, Song L. Natural peptides for immunological regulation in cancer therapy: Mechanism, facts and perspectives. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 159:114257. [PMID: 36689836 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer incidence and mortality rates are increasing annually. Treatment with surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy (RT) is unsatisfactory because many patients have advanced disease at the initial diagnosis. However, the emergence of immunotherapy promises to be an effective strategy to improve the outcome of advanced tumors. Immune checkpoint antibodies, which are at the forefront of immunotherapy, have had significant success but still leave some cancer patients without benefit. For more cancer patients to benefit from immunotherapy, it is necessary to find new drugs and combination therapeutic strategies to improve the outcome of advanced cancer patients and achieve long-term tumor control or even eradication. Peptides are promising choices for tumor immunotherapy drugs because they have the advantages of low production cost, high sequence selectivity, high tissue permeability, low toxicity and low immunogenicity etc., and the adjuvant matching and technologies like nanotechnology can further optimize the effects of peptides. In this review, we present the current status and mechanisms of research on peptides targeting multiple immune cells (T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells (DCs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), regulatory T cells (Tregs)) and immune checkpoints in tumor immunotherapy; and we summarize the current status of research on peptide-based tumor immunotherapy in combination with other therapies including RT, chemotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy, cytokine therapy, adoptive cell therapy (ACT) and cancer vaccines. Finally, we discuss the current status of peptide applications in mRNA vaccine delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunchao Zhang
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, PR China
| | - Chenxin Liu
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, PR China
| | - Chunjie Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, PR China
| | - Linjiang Song
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, PR China.
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21
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Seo H, Jeon L, Kwon J, Lee H. High-Precision Synthesis of RNA-Loaded Lipid Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2203033. [PMID: 36737864 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202203033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The recent development of RNA-based therapeutics in delivering nucleic acids for gene editing and regulating protein translation has led to the effective treatment of various diseases including cancer, inflammatory and genetic disorder, as well as infectious diseases. Among these, lipid nanoparticles (LNP) have emerged as a promising platform for RNA delivery and have shed light by resolving the inherent instability issues of naked RNA and thereby enhancing the therapeutic potency. These LNP consisting of ionizable lipid, helper lipid, cholesterol, and poly(ethylene glycol)-anchored lipid can stably enclose RNA and help them release into the cells' cytosol. Herein, the significant progress made in LNP research starting from the LNP constituents, formulation, and their diverse applications is summarized first. Moreover, the microfluidic methodologies which allow precise assembly of these newly developed constituents to achieve LNP with controllable composition and size, high encapsulation efficiency as well as scalable production are highlighted. Furthermore, a short discussion on current challenges as well as an outlook will be given on emerging approaches to resolving these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanjin Seo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 37673, Korea
| | - Leekang Jeon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 37673, Korea
| | - Jaeyeong Kwon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 37673, Korea
| | - Hyomin Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 37673, Korea
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22
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Hasannejad-Asl B, Pooresmaeil F, Takamoli S, Dabiri M, Bolhassani A. Cell penetrating peptide: A potent delivery system in vaccine development. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1072685. [PMID: 36425579 PMCID: PMC9679422 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1072685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the main obstacles to most medication administrations (such as the vaccine constructs) is the cellular membrane's inadequate permeability, which reduces their efficiency. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) or protein transduction domains (PTDs) are well-known as potent biological nanocarriers to overcome this natural barrier, and to deliver membrane-impermeable substances into cells. The physicochemical properties of CPPs, the attached cargo, concentration, and cell type substantially influence the internalization mechanism. Although the exact mechanism of cellular uptake and the following processing of CPPs are still uncertain; but however, they can facilitate intracellular transfer through both endocytic and non-endocytic pathways. Improved endosomal escape efficiency, selective cell targeting, and improved uptake, processing, and presentation of antigen by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) have been reported by CPPs. Different in vitro and in vivo investigations using CPP conjugates show their potential as therapeutic agents in various medical areas such as infectious and non-infectious disorders. Effective treatments for a variety of diseases may be provided by vaccines that can cooperatively stimulate T cell-mediated immunity (T helper cell activity or cytotoxic T cell function), and immunologic memory. Delivery of antigen epitopes to APCs, and generation of a potent immune response is essential for an efficacious vaccine that can be facilitated by CPPs. The current review describes the delivery of numerous vaccine components by various CPPs and their immunostimulatory properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Hasannejad-Asl
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti, University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farkhondeh Pooresmaeil
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahla Takamoli
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mehran Dabiri
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Bolhassani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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23
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Porosk L, Langel Ü. Approaches for evaluation of novel CPP-based cargo delivery systems. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1056467. [PMID: 36339538 PMCID: PMC9634181 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1056467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) can be broadly defined as relatively short synthetic, protein derived or chimeric peptides. Their most remarkable property is their ability to cross cell barriers and facilitate the translocation of cargo, such as drugs, nucleic acids, peptides, small molecules, dyes, and many others across the plasma membrane. Over the years there have been several approaches used, adapted, and developed for the evaluation of CPP efficacies as delivery systems, with the fluorophore attachment as the most widely used approach. It has become progressively evident, that the evaluation method, in order to lead to successful outcome, should concede with the specialties of the delivery. For characterization and assessment of CPP-cargo a combination of research tools of chemistry, physics, molecular biology, engineering, and other fields have been applied. In this review, we summarize the diverse, in silico, in vitro and in vivo approaches used for evaluation and characterization of CPP-based cargo delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ly Porosk
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Institute of Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ülo Langel
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Institute of Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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