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Skowicki M, Tarvirdipour S, Kraus M, Schoenenberger CA, Palivan CG. Nanoassemblies designed for efficient nuclear targeting. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 211:115354. [PMID: 38857762 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115354] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
One of the key aspects of coping efficiently with complex pathological conditions is delivering the desired therapeutic compounds with precision in both space and time. Therefore, the focus on nuclear-targeted delivery systems has emerged as a promising strategy with high potential, particularly in gene therapy and cancer treatment. Here, we explore the design of supramolecular nanoassemblies as vehicles to deliver specific compounds to the nucleus, with the special focus on polymer and peptide-based carriers that expose nuclear localization signals. Such nanoassemblies aim at maximizing the concentration of genetic and therapeutic agents within the nucleus, thereby optimizing treatment outcomes while minimizing off-target effects. A complex scenario of conditions, including cellular uptake, endosomal escape, and nuclear translocation, requires fine tuning of the nanocarriers' properties. First, we introduce the principles of nuclear import and the role of nuclear pore complexes that reveal strategies for targeting nanosystems to the nucleus. Then, we provide an overview of cargoes that rely on nuclear localization for optimal activity as their integrity and accumulation are crucial parameters to consider when designing a suitable delivery system. Considering that they are in their early stages of research, we present various cargo-loaded peptide- and polymer nanoassemblies that promote nuclear targeting, emphasizing their potential to enhance therapeutic response. Finally, we briefly discuss further advancements for more precise and effective nuclear delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Skowicki
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 22, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, BPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Shabnam Tarvirdipour
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 22, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Kraus
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 22, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cora-Ann Schoenenberger
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 22, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, BPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Cornelia G Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, BPR 1096, Mattenstrasse 22, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; NCCR-Molecular Systems Engineering, BPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24a, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.
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Mastella P, Todaro B, Luin S. Nanogels: Recent Advances in Synthesis and Biomedical Applications. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:1300. [PMID: 39120405 PMCID: PMC11314474 DOI: 10.3390/nano14151300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
In the context of advanced nanomaterials research, nanogels (NGs) have recently gained broad attention for their versatility and promising biomedical applications. To date, a significant number of NGs have been developed to meet the growing demands in various fields of biomedical research. Summarizing preparation methods, physicochemical and biological properties, and recent applications of NGs may be useful to help explore new directions for their development. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the latest NG synthesis methodologies, highlighting advances in formulation with different types of hydrophilic or amphiphilic polymers. It also underlines recent biomedical applications of NGs in drug delivery and imaging, with a short section dedicated to biosafety considerations of these innovative nanomaterials. In conclusion, this article summarizes recent innovations in NG synthesis and their numerous applications, highlighting their considerable potential in the biomedical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Mastella
- NEST Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza ONLUS, Via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, PI, Italy
| | - Biagio Todaro
- Department of Chemical Engineering, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, 3001 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Stefano Luin
- NEST Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
- NEST Laboratory, Istituto Nanoscienze-CNR, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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Jha SK, Imran M, Anwaar S, Hansbro PM, Paudel KR, Mohammed Y. Mesenchymal stem cell membrane-coated nanoconstructs: why have they not yet found a home in clinical practice? Nanomedicine (Lond) 2024; 19:1507-1510. [PMID: 38953891 PMCID: PMC11321396 DOI: 10.1080/17435889.2024.2369495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Saurav Kumar Jha
- Department of Biological Sciences & Bioengineering (BSBE), Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur208016, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mohammad Imran
- Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane4102, Australia
| | - Shoaib Anwaar
- Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane4102, Australia
| | - Philip M Hansbro
- Centre for Inflammation, Faculty of Science, School of Life Science, Centenary Institute & University of Technology Sydney, Sydney2007, Australia
| | - Keshav Raj Paudel
- Centre for Inflammation, Faculty of Science, School of Life Science, Centenary Institute & University of Technology Sydney, Sydney2007, Australia
| | - Yousuf Mohammed
- Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane4102, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane4102, Australia
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Murdocca M, Romeo I, Citro G, Latini A, Centofanti F, Bugatti A, Caccuri F, Caruso A, Ortuso F, Alcaro S, Sangiuolo F, Novelli G. A Dynamic and Effective Peptide-Based Strategy for Promptly Addressing Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:891. [PMID: 39065742 PMCID: PMC11279616 DOI: 10.3390/ph17070891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Genomic surveillance based on sequencing the entire genetic code of SARS-CoV-2 involves monitoring and studying genetic changes and variations in disease-causing organisms such as viruses and bacteria. By tracing the virus, it is possible to prevent epidemic spread in the community, ensuring a 'precision public health' strategy. A peptide-based design was applied to provide an efficacious strategy that is able to counteract any emerging viral variant of concern dynamically and promptly to affect the outcomes of a pandemic at an early stage while waiting for the production of the anti-variant-specific vaccine, which require longer times. The inhibition of the interaction between the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and one of the cellular receptors (DPP4) that its receptors routinely bind to infect human cells is an intriguing therapeutic approach to prevent the virus from entering human cells. Among the other modalities developed for this purpose, peptides surely offer unique advantages, including ease of synthesis, serum stability, low immunogenicity and toxicity, and small production and distribution chain costs. Here, we obtained a potent new inhibitor based on the rearrangement of a previously identified peptide that has been rationally designed on a cell dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) sequence, a ubiquitous membrane protein known to bind the RBD-SPIKE domain of the virus. This novel peptide (named DPP4-derived), conceived as an endogenous "drug", is capable of targeting the latest tested variants with a high affinity, reducing the VSV* DG-Fluc pseudovirus Omicron's infection capacity by up to 14%, as revealed by in vitro testing in human Calu-3 cells. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) confirmed the binding affinity of the new DPP4-derived peptide with Omicron variant RBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Murdocca
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.C.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (G.N.)
| | - Isabella Romeo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (I.R.); (F.O.); (S.A.)
- Net4Science Srl Academic Spin-Off, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Gennaro Citro
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.C.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (G.N.)
| | - Andrea Latini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.C.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (G.N.)
| | - Federica Centofanti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.C.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (G.N.)
| | - Antonella Bugatti
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Francesca Caccuri
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Arnaldo Caruso
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Francesco Ortuso
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (I.R.); (F.O.); (S.A.)
- Net4Science Srl Academic Spin-Off, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Stefano Alcaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (I.R.); (F.O.); (S.A.)
- Net4Science Srl Academic Spin-Off, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Federica Sangiuolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.C.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (G.N.)
| | - Giuseppe Novelli
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.C.); (A.L.); (F.C.); (G.N.)
- IRCCS Neuromed Mediterranean Neurological Institute, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
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Kazemi MS, Shoari A, Salehibakhsh N, Aliabadi HAM, Abolhosseini M, Arab SS, Ahmadieh H, Kanavi MR, Behdani M. Anti-angiogenic biomolecules in neovascular age-related macular degeneration; therapeutics and drug delivery systems. Int J Pharm 2024; 659:124258. [PMID: 38782152 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124258] [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: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Blindness in the elderly is often caused by age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The advanced type of AMD known as neovascular AMD (nAMD) has been linked to being the predominant cause of visual impairment in these people. Multiple neovascular structures including choroidal neovascular (CNV) membranes, fluid exudation, hemorrhages, and subretinal fibrosis, are diagnostic of nAMD. These pathological alterations ultimately lead to anatomical and visual loss. It is known that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a type of proangiogenic factor, mediates the pathological process underlying nAMD. Therefore, various therapies have evolved to directly target the disease. In this review article, an attempt has been made to discuss general explanations about this disease, all common treatment methods based on anti-VEGF drugs, and the use of drug delivery systems in the treatment of AMD. Initially, the pathophysiology, angiogenesis, and different types of AMD were described. Then we described current treatments and future treatment prospects for AMD and outlined the advantages and disadvantages of each. In this context, we first examined the types of therapeutic biomolecules and anti-VEGF drugs that are used in the treatment of AMD. These biomolecules include aptamers, monoclonal antibodies, small interfering RNAs, microRNAs, peptides, fusion proteins, nanobodies, and other therapeutic biomolecules. Finally, we described drug delivery systems based on liposomes, nanomicelles, nanoemulsions, nanoparticles, cyclodextrin, dendrimers, and composite vehicles that are used in AMD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mir Salar Kazemi
- Biotechnology Research Centre, Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Iran
| | - Alireza Shoari
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Neda Salehibakhsh
- Biotechnology Research Centre, Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Iran; Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Hooman Aghamirza Moghim Aliabadi
- Protein Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Medical Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abolhosseini
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Research Institute for Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Shahriar Arab
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Ahmadieh
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Research Institute for Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mozhgan Rezaei Kanavi
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Research Institute for Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahdi Behdani
- Biotechnology Research Centre, Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Iran.
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Todaro B, Pesce L, Cardarelli F, Luin S. Pioglitazone Phases and Metabolic Effects in Nanoparticle-Treated Cells Analyzed via Rapid Visualization of FLIM Images. Molecules 2024; 29:2137. [PMID: 38731628 PMCID: PMC11085555 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29092137] [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: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) has proven to be a useful method for analyzing various aspects of material science and biology, like the supramolecular organization of (slightly) fluorescent compounds or the metabolic activity in non-labeled cells; in particular, FLIM phasor analysis (phasor-FLIM) has the potential for an intuitive representation of complex fluorescence decays and therefore of the analyzed properties. Here we present and make available tools to fully exploit this potential, in particular by coding via hue, saturation, and intensity the phasor positions and their weights both in the phasor plot and in the microscope image. We apply these tools to analyze FLIM data acquired via two-photon microscopy to visualize: (i) different phases of the drug pioglitazone (PGZ) in solutions and/or crystals, (ii) the position in the phasor plot of non-labelled poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs), and (iii) the effect of PGZ or PGZ-containing NPs on the metabolism of insulinoma (INS-1 E) model cells. PGZ is recognized for its efficacy in addressing insulin resistance and hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus, and polymeric nanoparticles offer versatile platforms for drug delivery due to their biocompatibility and controlled release kinetics. This study lays the foundation for a better understanding via phasor-FLIM of the organization and effects of drugs, in particular, PGZ, within NPs, aiming at better control of encapsulation and pharmacokinetics, and potentially at novel anti-diabetics theragnostic nanotools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biagio Todaro
- NEST Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (L.P.); (F.C.)
| | - Luca Pesce
- NEST Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (L.P.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesco Cardarelli
- NEST Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (L.P.); (F.C.)
| | - Stefano Luin
- NEST Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (L.P.); (F.C.)
- NEST Laboratory, Istituto Nanoscienze-CNR, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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Neamtu I, Ghilan A, Rusu AG, Nita LE, Chiriac VM, Chiriac AP. Design and applications of polymer-like peptides in biomedical nanogels. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:713-734. [PMID: 38916156 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2364651] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polymer nanogels are among the most promising nanoplatforms for use in biomedical applications. The substantial interest for these drug carriers is to enhance the transportation of bioactive substances, reduce the side effects, and achieve optimal action on the curative sites by targeting delivery and triggering the release of the drugs in a controlled and continuous mode. AREA COVERED The review discusses the opportunities, applications, and challenges of synthetic polypeptide nanogels in biomedicine, with an emphasis on the recent progress in cancer therapy. It is evidenced by the development of polypeptide nanogels for better controlled drug delivery and release, in complex in vivo microenvironments in biomedical applications. EXPERT OPINION Polypeptide nanogels can be developed by choosing the amino acids from the peptide structure that are suitable for the type of application. Using a stimulus - sensitive peptide nanogel, it is possible to obtain the appropriate transport and release of the drug, as well as to achieve desirable therapeutic effects, including safety, specificity, and efficiency. The final system represents an innovative way for local and sustained drug delivery at a specific site of the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iordana Neamtu
- Natural Polymers, Bioactive and Biocompatible Materials Laboratory, Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Iasi, Romania
| | - Alina Ghilan
- Natural Polymers, Bioactive and Biocompatible Materials Laboratory, Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Iasi, Romania
| | - Alina Gabriela Rusu
- Natural Polymers, Bioactive and Biocompatible Materials Laboratory, Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Iasi, Romania
| | - Loredana Elena Nita
- Natural Polymers, Bioactive and Biocompatible Materials Laboratory, Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Iasi, Romania
| | - Vlad Mihai Chiriac
- Faculty of Electronics Telecommunications and Information Technology, Gh. Asachi Technical University, Iaşi, Romania
| | - Aurica P Chiriac
- Natural Polymers, Bioactive and Biocompatible Materials Laboratory, Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Iasi, Romania
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Gafar MA, Omolo CA, Elhassan E, Ibrahim UH, Govender T. Applications of peptides in nanosystems for diagnosing and managing bacterial sepsis. J Biomed Sci 2024; 31:40. [PMID: 38637839 PMCID: PMC11027418 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-024-01029-2] [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: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Sepsis represents a critical medical condition stemming from an imbalanced host immune response to infections, which is linked to a significant burden of disease. Despite substantial efforts in laboratory and clinical research, sepsis remains a prominent contributor to mortality worldwide. Nanotechnology presents innovative opportunities for the advancement of sepsis diagnosis and treatment. Due to their unique properties, including diversity, ease of synthesis, biocompatibility, high specificity, and excellent pharmacological efficacy, peptides hold great potential as part of nanotechnology approaches against sepsis. Herein, we present a comprehensive and up-to-date review of the applications of peptides in nanosystems for combating sepsis, with the potential to expedite diagnosis and enhance management outcomes. Firstly, sepsis pathophysiology, antisepsis drug targets, current modalities in management and diagnosis with their limitations, and the potential of peptides to advance the diagnosis and management of sepsis have been adequately addressed. The applications have been organized into diagnostic or managing applications, with the last one being further sub-organized into nano-delivered bioactive peptides with antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory activity, peptides as targeting moieties on the surface of nanosystems against sepsis, and peptides as nanocarriers for antisepsis agents. The studies have been grouped thematically and discussed, emphasizing the constructed nanosystem, physicochemical properties, and peptide-imparted enhancement in diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy. The strengths, limitations, and research gaps in each section have been elaborated. Finally, current challenges and potential future paths to enhance the use of peptides in nanosystems for combating sepsis have been deliberately spotlighted. This review reaffirms peptides' potential as promising biomaterials within nanotechnology strategies aimed at improving sepsis diagnosis and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Gafar
- Discipline of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 1996, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Calvin A Omolo
- Discipline of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban, South Africa.
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, United States International University-Africa, P. O. Box 14634-00800, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Eman Elhassan
- Discipline of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban, South Africa
| | - Usri H Ibrahim
- Discipline of Human Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Thirumala Govender
- Discipline of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban, South Africa.
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Srivastava V, Godara P, Jena SP, Naik B, Singh S, Prajapati VK, Prusty D. Peptide-ligand conjugate based immunotherapeutic approach for targeted dismissal of non-structural protein 1 of dengue virus: A novel therapeutic solution for mild and severe dengue infections. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 260:129562. [PMID: 38246445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129562] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Dengue virus infection has significantly increased, with reported cases soaring from 505,430 in 2000 to 2,809,818 in 2022, emphasizing the need for effective treatments. Among the eleven structural and non-structural proteins of DENV, Non-structural protein 1 (NS1) has emerged as a promising target due to its diverse role in modulating the immune response, inducing vascular leakage, and facilitating viral replication and assembly. Monoclonal antibodies are the sole therapeutics to target NS1, but concerns about their cross-reactivity persist. Given these concerns, our study focuses on designing a novel Peptide Ligand Conjugate (PLC) as a potential alternative immunotherapeutic agent against NS1. This PLC aims to mediate the immune elimination of soluble NS1 and NS1-presenting DENV-infected host cells by pre-existing vaccine-induced immunity. By employing the High Throughput Virtual Screening (HTVS) method, QikProp analysis, and Molecular Dynamics studies, we identified three hits from Asinex Biodesigned Ligands out of 220,177 compounds that show strong binding affinity towards the monoclonal binding site of NS1 protein. After a rigorous analysis of physicochemical characteristics, antigenicity, allergenicity, and toxicity using various servers, we selected two peptides: the minimum epitopic region of the Diphtheria and Tetanus toxins as the peptide components of the PLCs. A non-cleavable, non-reactive oxime linker connected the ligand with the peptide through oxime and amide bonds. DPT vaccine is widely used in dengue-endemic countries, and it has been reported that antibodies titer against MER of Diphtheria toxin and Tetanus toxins persist lifelong in DPT-vaccinated people. Therefore, once the rationally designed PLCs bind to NS1 through the ligands, the peptide will induce an immune response against NS1 by triggering pre-existing DPT antibodies and activating memory cells. This orchestrated immune response will destroy soluble NS1 and NS1-expressing DENV-infected cells, thereby reducing the illness of severe dengue hemorrhagic fever and the DENV infection, respectively. Given the increasing demand for new therapeutics for DENV treatment, further investigation into this novel immune-therapeutic strategy may offer a new avenue for treating mild and severe dengue infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varshita Srivastava
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, 305817, India
| | - Priya Godara
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, 305817, India
| | - Sudip Prasad Jena
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, 305817, India
| | - Biswajit Naik
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, 305817, India
| | - Satyendra Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, 305817, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Prajapati
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Delhi South Campus, Benito Juarez Road, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Dhaneswar Prusty
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, 305817, India.
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Clemente B, Denis M, Silveira CP, Schiavetti F, Brazzoli M, Stranges D. Straight to the point: targeted mRNA-delivery to immune cells for improved vaccine design. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1294929. [PMID: 38090568 PMCID: PMC10711611 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1294929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
With the deepening of our understanding of adaptive immunity at the cellular and molecular level, targeting antigens directly to immune cells has proven to be a successful strategy to develop innovative and potent vaccines. Indeed, it offers the potential to increase vaccine potency and/or modulate immune response quality while reducing off-target effects. With mRNA-vaccines establishing themselves as a versatile technology for future applications, in the last years several approaches have been explored to target nanoparticles-enabled mRNA-delivery systems to immune cells, with a focus on dendritic cells. Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent antigen presenting cells and key mediators of B- and T-cell immunity, and therefore considered as an ideal target for cell-specific antigen delivery. Indeed, improved potency of DC-targeted vaccines has been proved in vitro and in vivo. This review discusses the potential specific targets for immune system-directed mRNA delivery, as well as the different targeting ligand classes and delivery systems used for this purpose.
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Hersh J, Yang YP, Roberts E, Bilbao D, Tao W, Pollack A, Daunert S, Deo SK. Targeted Bioluminescent Imaging of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Using Nanocarrier-Complexed EGFR-Binding Affibody-Gaussia Luciferase Fusion Protein. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1976. [PMID: 37514162 PMCID: PMC10384630 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In vivo imaging has enabled impressive advances in biological research, both preclinical and clinical, and researchers have an arsenal of imaging methods available. Bioluminescence imaging is an advantageous method for in vivo studies that allows for the simple acquisition of images with low background signals. Researchers have increasingly been looking for ways to improve bioluminescent imaging for in vivo applications, which we sought to achieve by developing a bioluminescent probe that could specifically target cells of interest. We chose pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) as the disease model because it is the most common type of pancreatic cancer and has an extremely low survival rate. We targeted the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is frequently overexpressed in pancreatic cancer cells, using an EGFR-specific affibody to selectively identify PDAC cells and delivered a Gaussia luciferase (GLuc) bioluminescent protein for imaging by engineering a fusion protein with both the affibody and the bioluminescent protein. This fusion protein was then complexed with a G5-PAMAM dendrimer nanocarrier. The dendrimer was used to improve the protein stability in vivo and increase signal strength. Our targeted bioluminescent complex had an enhanced uptake into PDAC cells in vitro and localized to PDAC tumors in vivo in pancreatic cancer xenograft mice. The bioluminescent complexes could delineate the tumor shape, identify multiple masses, and locate metastases. Through this work, an EGFR-targeted bioluminescent-dendrimer complex enabled the straightforward identification and imaging of pancreatic cancer cells in vivo in preclinical models. This argues for the targeted nanocarrier-mediated delivery of bioluminescent proteins as a way to improve in vivo bioluminescent imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Hersh
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.H.); (Y.-P.Y.); (S.D.)
- The Dr. John T. McDonald Foundation Bionanotechnology Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.); (D.B.); (W.T.); (A.P.)
| | - Yu-Ping Yang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.H.); (Y.-P.Y.); (S.D.)
- The Dr. John T. McDonald Foundation Bionanotechnology Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.); (D.B.); (W.T.); (A.P.)
| | - Evan Roberts
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.); (D.B.); (W.T.); (A.P.)
| | - Daniel Bilbao
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.); (D.B.); (W.T.); (A.P.)
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Wensi Tao
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.); (D.B.); (W.T.); (A.P.)
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Alan Pollack
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.); (D.B.); (W.T.); (A.P.)
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Sylvia Daunert
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.H.); (Y.-P.Y.); (S.D.)
- The Dr. John T. McDonald Foundation Bionanotechnology Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.); (D.B.); (W.T.); (A.P.)
| | - Sapna K. Deo
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.H.); (Y.-P.Y.); (S.D.)
- The Dr. John T. McDonald Foundation Bionanotechnology Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.); (D.B.); (W.T.); (A.P.)
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