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Marcu LG, Moghaddasi L, Bezak E. Cannot Target What Cannot Be Seen: Molecular Imaging of Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021524. [PMID: 36675033 PMCID: PMC9864237 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are known to play a key role in tumour development, proliferation, and metastases. Their unique properties confer resistance to therapy, often leading to treatment failure. It is believed that research into the identification, targeting, and eradication of these cells can revolutionise oncological treatment. Based on the principle that what cannot be seen, cannot be targeted, a primary step in cancer management is the identification of these cells. The current review aims to encompass the state-of-the-art functional imaging techniques that enable the identification of cancer stem cells via various pathways and mechanisms. The paper presents in vivo molecular techniques that are currently available or await clinical implementation. Challenges and future prospects are highlighted to open new research avenues in cancer stem cell imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana G. Marcu
- Faculty of Informatics and Science, University of Oradea, 1 Universitatii Str., 410087 Oradea, Romania
- Cancer Research Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Leyla Moghaddasi
- Northern Sydney Cancer Centre, Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Eva Bezak
- Cancer Research Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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Lu ZR, Laney V, Li Y. Targeted Contrast Agents for Magnetic Resonance Molecular Imaging of Cancer. Acc Chem Res 2022; 55:2833-2847. [PMID: 36121350 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.2c00346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a clinical imaging modality that provides high-resolution images of soft tissues, including cancerous lesions. Stable gadolinium(III) chelates have been used as contrast agents (CA) in MRI to enhance the contrast between the tissues of interest and surrounding tissues for accurate diagnostic imaging. Magnetic resonance molecular imaging (MRMI) of cancer requires targeted CA to specifically elucidate cancer-associated molecular processes and can provide high-resolution delineation and characterization of cancer for precision medicine. The main challenge for MRMI is the lack of sufficient sensitivity to detect the low concentration of the cellular oncogenic markers. In addition, targeted CA must satisfy regulatory safety requirements prior to clinical development. Up to now, there is no FDA-approved targeted CA for MRMI of cancer.In this Account, we discuss the latest developments in the design and development of clinically translatable targeted CA for MRMI of cancer, with an emphasis on our own research. The primary limitation of MRMI can be overcome by designing small molecular targeted CA to target abundant cancer-specific targets found in the tumor microenvironment (TME). For example, aggressive tumors have a unique extracellular matrix (ECM) composed of oncoproteins, which can be used as targetable markers for MRMI. We have designed and prepared small peptide conjugates of clinical contrast agents, including Gd-DTPA and Gd-DOTA, to target fibrin-fibronectin clots in tumors. These small molecular CA have been effective in enhancing MRMI detection of solid tumors and have demonstrated the ability to detect submillimeter cancer micrometastases in mouse tumor models, exceeding the detection limit of current clinical imaging modalities. We have also identified extradomain B fibronectin (EDB-FN), an oncofetal subtype of fibronectin, as a promising TME target to leverage in the design and development of small peptide targeted CA for clinical translation. The expression level of EDB-FN is correlated with invasiveness of cancer cells and poor patient survival of multiple cancer types. ZD2 peptide with a sequence of seven amino acids (TVRTSAD) was identified to specifically bind to the EDB protein fragment. Several ZD2 conjugates of macrocyclic GBCA, including Gd-DOTA and Gd(HP-DO3A), have been synthesized and tested in mouse tumor models. ZD2-N3-Gd(HP-DO3A) (MT218) with a high r1 relaxivity was selected as the lead agent for clinical translation. The physicochemical properties and preclinical assessments of MT218 are summarized in this Account. MRMI of EDB-FN with MT218 can effectively detect invasive tumors of multiple cancers with risk-stratification and monitor tumor response to anticancer therapies in mouse models. Currently, MT218 is in clinical trials for precision cancer MRMI. Herein, we will show that using targeted MRI contrast agents specific to abundant TME biomarkers is a pragmatic solution for effective precision cancer imaging in high spatial resolution. And thus, we illustrate a replicable approach for CA development that is vital for cancer MRMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Rong Lu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Ave, Wickenden Building, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States.,Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Victoria Laney
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Ave, Wickenden Building, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Yajuan Li
- Molecular Theranostics, 7100 Euclid Ave, Suite 152, Cleveland, Ohio 44114, United States
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Li Y, Gao S, Jiang H, Ayat N, Laney V, Nicolescu C, Sun W, Tweedle MF, Lu ZR. Evaluation of Physicochemical Properties, Pharmacokinetics, Biodistribution, Toxicity, and Contrast-Enhanced Cancer MRI of a Cancer-Targeting Contrast Agent, MT218. Invest Radiol 2022; 57:639-654. [PMID: 35703463 PMCID: PMC9444296 DOI: 10.1097/rli.0000000000000881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Preclinical assessments were performed according to the US Food and Drug Administration guidelines to determine the physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetics, clearance, safety, and tumor-specific magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of MT218, a peptidic gadolinium-based MR imaging agent targeting to extradomain B fibronectin for MR molecular imaging of aggressive tumors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Relaxivity, chelation stability, binding affinity, safety-related target profiling, and effects on CYP450 enzymes and transporters were evaluated in vitro. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed with rats bearing prostate cancer xenografts, immunocompetent mice bearing murine pancreatic cancer allografts, and mice bearing lung cancer xenografts at different doses of MT218. Pharmacological effects on cardiovascular, respiratory, and central nervous systems were determined in rats and conscious beagle dogs. Pharmacokinetics were tested in rats and dogs. Biodistribution and excretion were studied in rats. Single and repeated dosing toxicity was evaluated in rats and dogs. In vitro and in vivo genotoxicity, in vitro hemolysis, and anaphylactic reactivity were also performed. RESULTS At 1.4 T, the r1 and r2 relaxivities of MT218 were 5.43 and 7.40 mM -1 s -1 in pure water, 6.58 and 8.87 mM -1 s -1 in phosphate-buffered saline, and 6.54 and 8.70 mM -1 s -1 in aqueous solution of human serum albumin, respectively. The binding affinity of MT218 to extradomain B fragment is 3.45 μM. MT218 exhibited no dissociation of the Gd(III) chelates under physiological conditions. The peptide degradation half-life ( t1/2 ) of MT218 was 1.63, 5.85, and 2.63 hours in rat, dog, and human plasma, respectively. It had little effect on CYP450 enzymes and transporters. MT218 produced up to 7-fold increase of contrast-to-noise ratios in the extradomain B fibronectin-rich tumors with a dose of 0.04 mmol/kg for at least 30 minutes. MT218 had little pharmacological effect on central nervous, cardiovascular, or respiratory systems. MT218 had a mean plasma elimination half-life ( t1/2 ) of 0.31 and 0.89 hours in rats and dogs at 0.1 mmol/kg, respectively. No detectable Gd deposition was observed in the brain at 6 hours postinjection of MT218 at 0.1 mmol/kg in rats. MT218 was not mutagenic and had no mortality or morbidity in the rats or dogs up to 1.39 and 0.70 mmol/kg/d, respectively. The no observed adverse effect level of MT218 in Sprague-Dawley rats was 1.39 mmol/kg for single dosing and 0.46 mmol/kg/d for repeated dosing. The no observed adverse effect level in dogs was 0.07 mmol/kg/d. MT218 exhibited no genotoxicity, hemolysis, and anaphylactic reactivity. CONCLUSION The preclinical assessments showed that the targeted contrast agent MT218 has high r1 and r2 relaxivities, satisfactory physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetic, and safety profiles and produces effective tumor enhancement in multiple cancer types in rats and mice at reduced doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajuan Li
- From the Molecular Theranostics, LLC, Cleveland
| | - Songqi Gao
- From the Molecular Theranostics, LLC, Cleveland
| | | | - Nadia Ayat
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland
| | - Victoria Laney
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland
| | - Calin Nicolescu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland
| | - Wenyu Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland
| | - Michael F. Tweedle
- Wright Center of Innovation, Department of Radiology, the Ohio State University, Columbus
| | - Zheng-Rong Lu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
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Pucci C, Degl'Innocenti A, Belenli Gümüş M, Ciofani G. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for magnetic hyperthermia: Recent advancements, molecular effects, and future directions in the omics era. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:2103-2121. [DOI: 10.1039/d1bm01963e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles have attracted attention in the biomedical field thanks to their ability to prompt hyperthermia in response to an alternated magnetic field. Hyperthermia is well-known for inducing...
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Cao J, Bhatnagar S, Wang J, Qi X, Prabha S, Panyam J. Cancer stem cells and strategies for targeted drug delivery. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2021; 11:1779-1805. [PMID: 33095384 PMCID: PMC8062588 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-020-00863-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small proportion of cancer cells with high tumorigenic activity, self-renewal ability, and multilineage differentiation potential. Standard anti-tumor therapies including conventional chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and molecularly targeted therapies are not effective against CSCs, and often lead to enrichment of CSCs that can result in tumor relapse. Therefore, it is hypothesized that targeting CSCs is key to increasing the efficacy of cancer therapies. In this review, CSC properties including CSC markers, their role in tumor growth, invasiveness, metastasis, and drug resistance, as well as CSC microenvironment are discussed. Further, CSC-targeted strategies including the use of targeted drug delivery systems are examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Shubhmita Bhatnagar
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- School of Pharmacy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
| | - Jiawei Wang
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Xueyong Qi
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Swayam Prabha
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- Cancer Research & Molecular Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
| | - Jayanth Panyam
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
- School of Pharmacy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA.
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Saw PE, Xu X, Kim S, Jon S. Biomedical Applications of a Novel Class of High-Affinity Peptides. Acc Chem Res 2021; 54:3576-3592. [PMID: 34406761 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.1c00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Most therapeutic peptides available on the market today are naturally occurring hormones or protein fragments that were serendipitously discovered to possess therapeutic effects. However, the limited repertoire of available natural resources presents difficulties for the development of new peptide drug candidates. Traditional peptides possess several shortcomings that must be addressed for biomedical applications, including relatively low affinity or specificity toward biological targets compared to antibody- and protein scaffold-based affinity molecules, poor in vivo stability owing to rapid enzymatic degradation, and rapid clearance from circulation owing to their small size. Going forward, it will be increasingly important for scientists to develop novel classes of high-affinity and -specificity peptides against desired targets that mitigate these limitations while remaining compatible with pharmaceutical manufacturing processes. Recently, several highly constrained, artificial cyclic peptides have emerged as platforms capable of generating high-affinity peptide binders against various disease-associated protein targets by combining with phage or mRNA display method, some of which have entered clinical trials. In contrast, although linear peptides are relatively easy to synthesize cost-effectively and modify site-specifically at either N- or C-termini compared to cyclic peptides, there have been few linear peptide-based platforms that can provide high-affinity and -specificity peptide binders.In this Account, we describe the creation and development of a novel class of high-affinity peptides, termed "aptide"-from the Latin word "aptus" meaning "to fit" and "peptide"-and summarize their biomedical applications. In the first part, we consider the design and creation of aptides, with a focus on their unique structural features and binding mode, and address screening and identification of target protein-specific aptides. We also discuss advantages of the aptide platform over ordinary linear peptides lacking preorganized structures in terms of the affinity and specificity of identified peptide binders against target molecules. In the second part, we describe the potential biomedical applications of various target-specific aptides, ranging from imaging and therapy to theranostics, according to the types of aptides and diseases. We show that certain aptides can not only bind to a target protein but also inhibit its biological function, thereby showing potential as therapeutics per se. Further, aptides specific for cancer-associated protein antigens can be used as escort molecules or targeting ligands for delivery of chemotherapeutics, cytokine proteins, and nanomedicines, such as liposomes and magnetic particles, to tumors, thereby substantially improving therapeutic effects. Finally, we present a strategy capable of overcoming the critical issue of short blood circulation time associated with most peptides by constructing a hybrid system between an aptide and a hapten cotinine-specific antibody.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phei Er Saw
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 107 Yanjiang West Road, Guangzhou 510120, P.R. China
- Biomedical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 107 Yanjiang West Road, Guangzhou 510120, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoding Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 107 Yanjiang West Road, Guangzhou 510120, P.R. China
- Biomedical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 107 Yanjiang West Road, Guangzhou 510120, P.R. China
| | - Sunghyun Kim
- Center for Convergence Bioceramic Materials, Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology (KICET), Cheongju-si 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangyong Jon
- Center for Precision Bio-Nanomedicine, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
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Ghaderi F, Jokar N, Gholamrezanezhad A, Assadi M, Ahmadzadehfar H. Toward radiotheranostics in cancer stem cells: a promising initial step for tumour eradication. Clin Transl Imaging 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40336-021-00444-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Theranostics for Breast Cancer Stem Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1187:267-281. [PMID: 33983583 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-32-9620-6_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Effectively targeting and treating breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs), which have been linked to tumor development and metastasis, and recurrence still remains a challenging issue in preclinic and clinic. Screening and identifying characteristic BCSC biomarkers is important for distinguishing BCSCs from differentiated tumor cells within the tumor mass. Molecular imaging and nanotechnology are evolving as new fields that have a potentially high research and clinical impact. Developing the biocompatible contrast agents conjugated with high-affinity biomarker to selectively target BCSCs and is one of the key prerequisites for image-guided diagnosis and monitoring therapy of BCSCs. Very recently, we documented the extra domain-B fibronectin (EDB-FN), which is considered as a new putative biomarker for BCSCs (NDY-1 cell) derived from human breast carcinosarcoma. We here review BCSC-targeted theranostics in vitro and in vivo by delivering siRNA or drug using the nanoparticles conjugated with a small peptide specific to EDB-FN.
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Vaidya A, Ayat N, Buford M, Wang H, Shankardass A, Zhao Y, Gilmore H, Wang Z, Lu ZR. Noninvasive assessment and therapeutic monitoring of drug-resistant colorectal cancer by MR molecular imaging of extradomain-B fibronectin. Theranostics 2020; 10:11127-11143. [PMID: 33042274 PMCID: PMC7532678 DOI: 10.7150/thno.47448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Antineoplastic resistance represents a multifaceted challenge for cancer therapy and diagnostics. Extensive molecular heterogeneity, even within neoplasms of the same type, can elicit distinct outcomes of administering therapeutic pressures, frequently leading to the development of drug-resistant populations. Improved success of oncotherapies merits the exploration of precise molecular imaging technologies that can detect not only anatomical but also molecular changes in tumors and their microenvironment, early on in the treatment regimen. To this end, we developed magnetic resonance molecular imaging (MRMI) strategies to target the extracellular matrix oncoprotein, extradomain-B fibronectin (EDB-FN), for non-invasive assessment and therapeutic monitoring of drug-resistant colorectal cancer (CRC). Methods: Two drug-resistant CRC lines generated from parent DLD-1 and RKO cells by long-term treatment with 5'-FU and 5'-FU plus CB-839 respectively, were characterized for functional and gene expression changes using 3D culture, transwell invasion, qRT-PCR, and western blot assays. Contrast-enhanced MRMI of EDB-FN was performed in athymic nu/nu mice bearing subcutaneous tumor xenografts with 40 µmol/kg dose of macrocyclic ZD2-targeted contrast agent MT218 [ZD2-N3-Gd (HP-DO3A)] on a 3T MRS 3000 scanner. Immunohistochemistry was conducted on patient specimens and xenografts using anti-EDB-FN antibody G4. Results: Analyses of TCGA and GTEx databases revealed poor prognosis of colon cancer patients with higher levels of EDB-FN. Similarly, immunohistochemical staining of patient specimens showed increased EDB-FN expression in primary colon adenocarcinoma and hepatic metastases, but none in normal adjacent tissues. Drug-resistant DLD1-DR and RKO-DR cells were also found to demonstrate enhanced invasive potential and significantly elevated EDB-FN expression over their parent counterparts. MRMI of EDB-FN with 40 µmol/kg dose of MT218 (60% lower than the clinical dose) resulted in robust signal enhancement in the drug-resistant CRC xenografts with 84-120% increase in their contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) over the non-resistant counterparts. The feasibility of non-invasive therapeutic monitoring using MRMI of EDB-FN was also evaluated in drug-resistant DLD1-DR tumors treated with a pan-AKT inhibitor MK2206-HCl. The treated drug-resistant tumors failed to respond to therapy, which was accurately detected by MRMI with MT218, demonstrating higher signal enhancement and increased CNRs in the 4-week follow-up scans over the pre-treatment scans. Conclusions: EDB-FN is a promising molecular marker for assessing drug resistance. MRMI of EDB-FN with MT218 at a significantly reduced dose can facilitate effective non-invasive assessment and treatment response monitoring of drug-resistant CRC, highlighting its translational potential for active surveillance and management of CRC and other malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amita Vaidya
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Nadia Ayat
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Megan Buford
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Helen Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Aman Shankardass
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Yiqing Zhao
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Hannah Gilmore
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Zhenghe Wang
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Zheng-Rong Lu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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Vaidya A, Wang H, Qian V, Gilmore H, Lu ZR. Overexpression of Extradomain-B Fibronectin is Associated with Invasion of Breast Cancer Cells. Cells 2020; 9:cells9081826. [PMID: 32756405 PMCID: PMC7463489 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast tumor heterogeneity is a major impediment to oncotherapy. Cancer cells undergo rapid clonal evolution, thereby acquiring significant growth and invasive advantages. The absence of specific markers of these high-risk populations precludes efficient therapeutic and diagnostic management of the disease. Given the critical function of tumor microenvironment in the oncogenic circuitry, we sought to determine the expression profile of the extracellular matrix oncoprotein, extradomain-B fibronectin (EDB-FN) in invasive breast cancer. Analyses of TCGA/GTEx databases and immunostaining of clinical samples found a significant overexpression of EDB-FN in breast tumors, which correlated with poor overall survival. Significant upregulation of EDB-FN was observed in invasive cell populations generated from relatively less invasive MCF7 and MDA-MB-468 cells by long-term TGF-β treatment and acquired chemoresistance. Treatment of the invasive cell populations with an AKT inhibitor (MK2206-HCl) reduced their invasive potential, with a concomitant decrease in their EDB-FN expression, partly through the phosphoAKT-SRp55 pathway. EDB-FN downregulation, with direct RNAi of EDB-FN or indirectly through RNAi of SRp55, also resulted in reduced motility of the invasive cell populations, validating the correlation between EDB-FN expression and invasion of breast cancer cells. These data establish EDB-FN as a promising molecular marker for non-invasive therapeutic surveillance of aggressive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amita Vaidya
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.V.); (H.W.); (V.Q.)
| | - Helen Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.V.); (H.W.); (V.Q.)
| | - Victoria Qian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.V.); (H.W.); (V.Q.)
| | - Hannah Gilmore
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
| | - Zheng-Rong Lu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.V.); (H.W.); (V.Q.)
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-216-368-0187
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Ghaffari H, Atashzar MR, Abdollahi H. Molecular imaging in tracking cancer stem cells: A review. Med J Islam Repub Iran 2020; 34:90. [PMID: 33306061 PMCID: PMC7711048 DOI: 10.34171/mjiri.34.90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have critical roles in tumor development, progression, and recurrence. They are responsible for current cancer treatment failure and remain questionable for the design and development of new therapeutic strategies. With this issue, medical imaging provides several clues for finding biological mechanisms and strategies to treat CSCs. This review aims to summarize current molecular imaging approaches for detecting CSCs. In addition, some promising issues for CSCs finding and explaining biological mechanisms have been addressed. Among the molecular imaging approaches, modalities including Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) have the greatest roles and several new approaches such as optical imaging are in progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Ghaffari
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Atashzar
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Hamid Abdollahi
- Department of Radiologic Sciences and Medical Physics, School of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Ranjbar L, Maleki F, Sadeghzadeh N, Abediankenari S, Mardanshahi A, Masteri Farahani A. In vitro/in vivo assessment of the targeting ability of [ 99mTc] Tc-labeled an aptide specific to the extra domain B of fibronectin (APT EDB) for colorectal cancer. Ann Nucl Med 2020; 34:460-466. [PMID: 32390105 DOI: 10.1007/s12149-020-01472-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The APTEDB is an aptide specific to the extra domain B (EDB) of fibronectin with high affinity for EDB, which is expressed in malignant tumors including brain cancer (U87MG) and colorectal cancer (HT-29). Aim of this study was to evaluate the [99mTc] Tc-APTEDB potential as an imaging probe for colorectal cancer. METHODS Radiochemical purity was evaluated by HPLC and radio-isotope TLC scanner. Blocking study for specific binding assay and affinity calculation (Kd) on HT-29 cell lines were also carried out. Planar imaging and bio-distribution studies were performed in HT-29 tumor-bearing mice. RESULTS The APTEDB was efficiently labeled with technetium-99m in high radiochemical yield (up to 97%). Cellular binding study demonstrated specific binding of the [99mTc] Tc-APTEDB in cultured HT-29 cells. The Kd value was found to be 40.46 ± 13.39 nM. The tumor-to-muscle ratio was ~ 1.5 in ex vivo bio-distribution study at 1 h after injection. Planar imaging study showed higher activity accumulation in EDB expressing HT-29 tumor relative to muscle (used as control) (~ 1.7) at 1 h. CONCLUSIONS Although more studies are required to find out the full potential of this radio-ligand as an imaging probe, the present results nevertheless provide useful information about [99mTc] Tc-APTEDB, which might be beneficial in design and development of new [99mTc] Tc-APTEDB for efficient targeting of tumor in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Ranjbar
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, 48471-93698, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Fariba Maleki
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, 48471-93698, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Nourollah Sadeghzadeh
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, 48471-93698, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran.
| | - Saied Abediankenari
- Immunogenetics Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Alireza Mardanshahi
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Arezou Masteri Farahani
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, 48471-93698, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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13
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Han Z, Zhang S, Fujiwara K, Zhang J, Li Y, Liu J, van Zijl PCM, Lu ZR, Zheng L, Liu G. Extradomain-B Fibronectin-Targeted Dextran-Based Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer Magnetic Resonance Imaging Probe for Detecting Pancreatic Cancer. Bioconjug Chem 2019; 30:1425-1433. [PMID: 30938983 PMCID: PMC6896991 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.9b00161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
A dextran-peptide conjugate was developed for magnetic resonance (MR) molecular imaging of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) through its overexpressed microenvironment biomarker, extradomain-B fibronectin (EDB-FN). This new agent consists of diamagnetic and biocompatible dextran and a targeting peptide. Dextrans can be directly detected by chemical exchange saturation transfer magnetic resonance imaging (CEST MRI) without the need for radionuclide or metallic labeling. In addition, large molecular weight dextran, dextran 10 (MW ∼ 10 kDa), provides an approximately 50 times higher sensitivity per molecule than a single glucose unit. The potential of this highly biocompatible diamagnetic probe is demonstrated in a murine syngeneic allograft PDAC tumor model. The biocompatibility and sensitivity of this new agent clearly show potential for a path to clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Han
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- F. M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Shuixing Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guandong 510630, China
| | - Kenji Fujiwara
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
| | - Jia Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Yuguo Li
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- F. M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- Radiology Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, China
| | - Peter C. M. van Zijl
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- F. M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Zheng-Rong Lu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Lei Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
| | - Guanshu Liu
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- F. M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
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14
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Kim H, Hwang D, Choi M, Lee S, Kang S, Lee Y, Kim S, Chung J, Jon S. Antibody-Assisted Delivery of a Peptide-Drug Conjugate for Targeted Cancer Therapy. Mol Pharm 2018; 16:165-172. [PMID: 30521347 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.8b00924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
A number of cancer-targeting peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) have been explored as alternatives to antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for targeted cancer therapy. However, the much shorter circulation half-life of PDCs compared with ADCs in vivo has limited their therapeutic value and thus their translation into the clinic, highlighting the need to develop new approaches for extending the half-life of PDCs. Here, we report a new strategy for targeted cancer therapy of a PDC based on a molecular hybrid between an antihapten antibody and a hapten-labeled PDC. An anticotinine antibody (Abcot) was used as a model antihapten antibody. The anticancer drug SN38 was linked to a cotinine-labeled aptide specific to extra domain B of fibronectin (cot-APTEDB), yielding the model PDC, cot-APTEDB-SN38. The cotinine-labeled PDC showed specific binding to and cytotoxicity toward an EDB-overexpressing human glioblastoma cell line (U87MG) and also formed a hybrid complex (HC) with Abcot in situ, designated HC[cot-APTEDB-SN38/Abcot]. In glioblastoma-bearing mice, in situ HC[cot-APTEDB-SN38/Abcot] significantly extended the circulation half-life of cot-APTEDB-SN38 in blood, and it enhanced accumulation and penetration within the tumor and, ultimately, inhibition of tumor growth. These findings suggest that the present platform holds promise as a new, targeted delivery strategy for PDCs in anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyungjun Kim
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Department of Biological Sciences , Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology , 291 Daehak-ro , Daejeon 34141 , Republic of Korea
| | - Dobeen Hwang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , Seoul National University College of Medicine , 103 Daehak-ro , Seoul 03080 , Republic of Korea
| | - Minsuk Choi
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Department of Biological Sciences , Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology , 291 Daehak-ro , Daejeon 34141 , Republic of Korea
| | - Soyoung Lee
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Department of Biological Sciences , Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology , 291 Daehak-ro , Daejeon 34141 , Republic of Korea
| | - Sukmo Kang
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Department of Biological Sciences , Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology , 291 Daehak-ro , Daejeon 34141 , Republic of Korea
| | - Yonghyun Lee
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Department of Biological Sciences , Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology , 291 Daehak-ro , Daejeon 34141 , Republic of Korea
| | - Sunghyun Kim
- Center for Convergence Bioceramic Materials , Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology , 202 Osongsaengmyeong 1-ro , Cheongju 28160 , Republic of Korea
| | - Junho Chung
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , Seoul National University College of Medicine , 103 Daehak-ro , Seoul 03080 , Republic of Korea
| | - Sangyong Jon
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Department of Biological Sciences , Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology , 291 Daehak-ro , Daejeon 34141 , Republic of Korea
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15
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Sun Y, Kim HS, Kang S, Piao YJ, Jon S, Moon WK. Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Drug Delivery to Breast Cancer Stem-Like Cells. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7:e1800266. [PMID: 30146770 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201800266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The feasibility of detecting breast cancer stem-like cells (BCSCs) with magnetic resonance imaging using extradomain-B of fibronectin (EDB-FN)-specific peptide (APTEDB )-conjugated thermally cross-linked superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (APTEDB -TCL-SPIONs) is previously demonstrated. Here, doxorubicin (Dox)-loaded APTEDB -TCL-SPIONs (Dox@APTEDB -TCL-SPIONs) are generated and their theranostic ability in a BCSC xenograft mouse model is assessed. The Dox@APTEDB -TCL-SPIONs enable more efficient delivery of Dox to tumors than nontargeted Dox@TCL-SPIONs. Much greater inhibition of BCSC tumor growth is observed after treatment with the Dox@APTEDB -TCL-SPIONs than with either Dox@TCL-SPIONs or free Dox. Hypointense signals are observed in the majority of the mice in postcontrast but not precontrast T2*-weighted MR images of tumors 7 days after treatment with Dox@APTEDB -TCL-SPIONs. An inverse correlation is observed between signal intensity and both EDB-FN expression and response to chemotherapy. The data indicate Dox@APTEDB -TCL-SPIONs can detect BCSCs within tumors by targeting EDB-FN-expressing cells. These nanoparticles thus have theranostic potential in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujin Sun
- Department of Radiology; Seoul National University Hospital; 101 Daehak-ro Jongno-gu Seoul 03080 Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiology; Yanbian University Hospital; 1327 JuZi Street Yanji City Jilin Province 133000 China
| | - Hoe Suk Kim
- Department of Radiology; Seoul National University Hospital; 101 Daehak-ro Jongno-gu Seoul 03080 Republic of Korea
| | - Sukmo Kang
- Department of Biological Sciences; Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST); 291 Daehak-ro Yuseong-gu Daejeon 34141 Republic of Korea
| | - Yin Ji Piao
- Department of Biomedical Science and Radiology; Seoul National University College of Medicine; 103 Daehak-ro Jongno-gu Seoul 03080 Republic of Korea
| | - Sangyong Jon
- Department of Biological Sciences; Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST); 291 Daehak-ro Yuseong-gu Daejeon 34141 Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Kyung Moon
- Department of Radiology; Seoul National University Hospital; 101 Daehak-ro Jongno-gu Seoul 03080 Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science and Radiology; Seoul National University College of Medicine; 103 Daehak-ro Jongno-gu Seoul 03080 Republic of Korea
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16
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Choi M, Yu SJ, Choi Y, Lee HR, Lee E, Lee E, Lee Y, Song J, Son JG, Lee TG, Kim JY, Kang S, Baek J, Lee D, Im SG, Jon S. Polymer Thin Film-Induced Tumor Spheroids Acquire Cancer Stem Cell-like Properties. Cancer Res 2018; 78:6890-6902. [PMID: 30352813 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-18-0927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
: Although cancer stem cells (CSC) are thought to be responsible for tumor recurrence and resistance to chemotherapy, CSC-related research and drug development have been hampered by the limited supply of diverse, patient-derived CSC. Here, we present a functional polymer thin film (PTF) platform that promotes conversion of cancer cells to highly tumorigenic three-dimensional (3D) spheroids without the use of biochemical or genetic manipulations. Culturing various human cancer cells on the specific PTF, poly(2,4,6,8-tetravinyl-2,4,6,8-tetramethyl cyclotetrasiloxane) (pV4D4), gave rise to numerous multicellular tumor spheroids within 24 hours with high efficiency and reproducibility. Cancer cells in the resulting spheroids showed a significant increase in the expression of CSC-associated genes and acquired increased drug resistance compared with two-dimensional monolayer-cultured controls. These spheroids also exhibited enhanced xenograft tumor-forming ability and metastatic capacity in nude mice. By enabling the generation of tumorigenic spheroids from diverse cancer cells, the surface platform described here harbors the potential to contribute to CSC-related basic research and drug development. SIGNIFICANCE: A new cell culture technology enables highly tumorigenic 3D spheroids to be easily generated from various cancer cell sources in the common laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minsuk Choi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung J Yu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yoonjung Choi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hak R Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunbeol Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjung Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yumi Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Junhyuk Song
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin G Son
- Center for Nano-Bio Measurement, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae G Lee
- Center for Nano-Bio Measurement, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Y Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sukmo Kang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieung Baek
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Daeyoup Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung G Im
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sangyong Jon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea. .,Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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17
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Ye XX, Zhao YY, Wang Q, Xiao W, Zhao J, Peng YJ, Cao DH, Lin WJ, Si-Tu MY, Li MZ, Zhang X, Zhang WG, Xia YF, Yang X, Feng GK, Zeng MS. EDB Fibronectin-Specific SPECT Probe 99mTc-HYNIC-ZD2 for Breast Cancer Detection. ACS OMEGA 2017; 2:2459-2468. [PMID: 30023665 PMCID: PMC6044779 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.7b00226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Extradomain-B fibronectin (EDB-FN), an oncofetal isoform of FN, is a promising diagnostic and therapeutic target of tumors, including breast cancer. Many EDB-FN-targeted drugs have been developed and have shown therapeutic effects in clinical trials. Molecular imaging to visualize EDB-FN-positive cancers may help select the right patients who will be benefit from EDB-FN-targeted therapy. Although a few EDB-FN-targeted imaging probes have been developed, the complicated manufacturing procedure and expensive material and equipment required limit their application for large-scale screening of EDB-FN-positive cancer patients. Thus, more simple and economic EDB-FN-targeted imaging probes are still urgently needed. Previously, we have identified a breast cancer-targeted peptide, CTVRTSADC. Coincidently, it was later identified as an EDB-FN-targeted peptide and named ZD2. In this study, we found a positive correlation between the binding activity of the ZD2 phage and the expression level of EDB-FN in breast cancer cells. Moreover, we observed the colocalization of the ZD2 peptide with EDB-FN in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, in vivo tumor targeting of the ZD2 phage, near-infrared fluorescence imaging, and flow cytometry showed tumor-specific homing of the ZD2 peptide in mice bearing EDB-FN-positive breast cancers. Importantly, on the basis of this EDB-FN-targeted ZD2 peptide, we developed a kit-formulated probe, 99mTc-HYNIC-ZD2, for single-photon-emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging of breast cancer. The high tumor uptake of 99mTc-HYNIC-ZD2 demonstrated its feasibility for use in visualizing EDB-FN-positive breast cancers in vivo. This kit-formulated EDB-FN-targeted SPECT probe has potential clinical applications for precision screening of EDB-FN-positive cancer patients who may benefit from EDB-FN-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Xuan Ye
- State
Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine,
Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, and Zhongshan School of Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
- Key
Laboratory of Functional Molecules from Marine Microorganisms, Zhongshan
School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yi-Ying Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Biological Therapeutic
Center, Department of Medical
Imaging, Medical
Experimental Animal Center, Nuclear Medicine Department, and Radiation Oncology Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Qian Wang
- State
Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine,
Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, and Zhongshan School of Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Wei Xiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Biological Therapeutic
Center, Department of Medical
Imaging, Medical
Experimental Animal Center, Nuclear Medicine Department, and Radiation Oncology Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Biological Therapeutic
Center, Department of Medical
Imaging, Medical
Experimental Animal Center, Nuclear Medicine Department, and Radiation Oncology Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yong-Jian Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Biological Therapeutic
Center, Department of Medical
Imaging, Medical
Experimental Animal Center, Nuclear Medicine Department, and Radiation Oncology Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - De-Hai Cao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Biological Therapeutic
Center, Department of Medical
Imaging, Medical
Experimental Animal Center, Nuclear Medicine Department, and Radiation Oncology Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Wen-Jie Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Biological Therapeutic
Center, Department of Medical
Imaging, Medical
Experimental Animal Center, Nuclear Medicine Department, and Radiation Oncology Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Min-Yi Si-Tu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Biological Therapeutic
Center, Department of Medical
Imaging, Medical
Experimental Animal Center, Nuclear Medicine Department, and Radiation Oncology Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Man-Zhi Li
- State
Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine,
Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, and Zhongshan School of Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Biological Therapeutic
Center, Department of Medical
Imaging, Medical
Experimental Animal Center, Nuclear Medicine Department, and Radiation Oncology Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Wei-Guang Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Biological Therapeutic
Center, Department of Medical
Imaging, Medical
Experimental Animal Center, Nuclear Medicine Department, and Radiation Oncology Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yun-Fei Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Biological Therapeutic
Center, Department of Medical
Imaging, Medical
Experimental Animal Center, Nuclear Medicine Department, and Radiation Oncology Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xia Yang
- Key
Laboratory of Functional Molecules from Marine Microorganisms, Zhongshan
School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Guo-Kai Feng
- State
Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine,
Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, and Zhongshan School of Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Mu-Sheng Zeng
- State
Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine,
Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, and Zhongshan School of Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
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18
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Zhou Z, Lu ZR. Molecular imaging of the tumor microenvironment. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2017; 113:24-48. [PMID: 27497513 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2016.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment plays a critical role in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. It is different from normal tissue in the extracellular matrix, vascular and lymphatic networks, as well as physiologic conditions. Molecular imaging of the tumor microenvironment provides a better understanding of its function in cancer biology, and thus allowing for the design of new diagnostics and therapeutics for early cancer diagnosis and treatment. The clinical translation of cancer molecular imaging is often hampered by the high cost of commercialization of targeted imaging agents as well as the limited clinical applications and small market size of some of the agents. Because many different cancer types share similar tumor microenvironment features, the ability to target these biomarkers has the potential to provide clinically translatable molecular imaging technologies for a spectrum of cancers and broad clinical applications. There has been significant progress in targeting the tumor microenvironment for cancer molecular imaging. In this review, we summarize the principles and strategies of recent advances made in molecular imaging of the tumor microenvironment, using various imaging modalities for early detection and diagnosis of cancer.
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19
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Han Z, Li Y, Roelle S, Zhou Z, Liu Y, Sabatelle R, DeSanto A, Yu X, Zhu H, Magi-Galluzzi C, Lu ZR. Targeted Contrast Agent Specific to an Oncoprotein in Tumor Microenvironment with the Potential for Detection and Risk Stratification of Prostate Cancer with MRI. Bioconjug Chem 2017; 28:1031-1040. [PMID: 28201871 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.6b00719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Accurate detection and risk stratification are paramount to the clinical management of prostate cancer. Current diagnostic methods, including prostate specific antigen (PSA) screening, are unable to differentiate high-risk tumors from low-risk tumors, resulting in overdiagnosis and overtreatment. A peptide targeted contrast agent, ZD2-Gd(HP-DO3A), specific to an oncoprotein in tumor microenvironment, EDB-FN, was synthesized for noninvasive detection and characterization of aggressive prostate cancer. EDB-FN, one of the subtypes of oncofetal fibronectin, is involved in tumor epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is implicated in drug resistance and metastasis. The EDB-FN mRNA level in the metastatic PC3 cells was at least three times higher than that in non-metastatic LNCaP cells. In tumors, EDB-FN protein was highly expressed in PC3 tumor xenografts, but not in LNCaP tumors, as revealed by Western blot analysis. ZD2-Gd(HP-DO3A) produced over two times higher contrast-to-noise ratio in the PC3 tumors than in the LNCaP tumors in contrast-enhanced MRI during 30 min after injection. ZD2-Gd(HP-DO3A) possessed high chelate stability against transmetalation and minimal tissue accumulation. Our results demonstrate that molecular MRI of EDB-FN with ZD2-Gd(HP-DO3A) can potentially be used for noninvasive detection and risk stratification of human prostate cancer. Incorporation of this targeted contrast agent in the existing clinical contrast enhanced MRI procedures has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Han
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University , 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Yajuan Li
- Molecular Theranostics, LLC , Beachwood, Ohio 44122, United States
| | - Sarah Roelle
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University , 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Zhuxian Zhou
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University , 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Yuchi Liu
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University , 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Rob Sabatelle
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University , 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Aidan DeSanto
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University , 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | - Xin Yu
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University , 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
| | | | | | - Zheng-Rong Lu
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University , 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, United States
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20
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Abstract
During cancer progression, the extracellular matrix (ECM) undergoes dramatic changes, which promote cancer cell migration and invasion. In the remodeled tumor ECM, fibronectin (FN) level is upregulated to assist tumor growth, progression, and invasion. FN serves as a central organizer of ECM molecules and mediates the crosstalk between the tumor microenvironment and cancer cells. Its upregulation is correlated with angiogenesis, cancer progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. A number of FN-targeting ligands have been developed for cancer imaging and therapy. Thus far, FN-targeting imaging agents have been tested for nuclear imaging, MRI, and fluorescence imaging, for tumor detection and localization. FN-targeting therapeutics, including nuclear medicine, chemotherapy drugs, cytokines, and photothermal moieties, were also developed in cancer therapy. Because of the prevalence of FN overexpression in cancer, FN targeting imaging agents and therapeutics have the promise of broad applications in the diagnosis, treatment, and image-guided interventions of many types of cancers. This review will summarize current understanding on the role of FN in cancer, discuss the design and development of FN-targeting agents, and highlight the applications of these FN-targeting agents in cancer imaging and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Han
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Zheng-Rong Lu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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21
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Fibronectin-targeted drug delivery in cancer. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2016; 97:101-10. [PMID: 26639577 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2015.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Revised: 11/21/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Fibronectin is an extracellular matrix protein with pivotal physiological and pathological functions in development and adulthood. Alternative splicing of the precursor mRNA, produced from the single copy fibronectin gene, occurs at three sites coding for the EDA, EDB and IIICS domains. Fibronectin isoforms comprising the EDA or EDB domains are known as oncofetal forms due to their developmental importance and their re-expression in tumors, contrasting with restricted presence in normal adult tissues. These isoforms are also recognized as important markers of angiogenesis, a crucial physiological process in development and required by tumor cells in cancer progression. Attributed to this feature, EDA and EDB domains have been extensively used for the targeted delivery of cytokines, cytotoxic agents, chemotherapy drugs and radioisotopes to fibronectin-expressing tumors to exert therapeutic effects on primary cancers and metastatic lesions. In addition to drug delivery, the EDA and EDB domains of fibronectin have also been utilized to develop imaging strategies for tumor tissues. Furthermore, EDA and EDB based vaccines seem to be promising for the treatment and prevention of certain cancer types. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in fibronectin EDA and EDB-based therapeutic strategies developed to treat cancer.
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22
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Sun Y, Kim HS, Saw PE, Jon S, Moon WK. Targeted Therapy for Breast Cancer Stem Cells by Liposomal Delivery of siRNA against Fibronectin EDB. Adv Healthc Mater 2015; 4:1675-80. [PMID: 26097122 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201500190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Targeted therapy for breast cancer stem cell (BCSC): A novel liposomal system (APTEDB -LS-siRNA(EDB) ) that enables simultaneous targeting and knockdown of extra domain B of fibronectin (EDB-FN) shows potent therapeutic efficacy in the BCSC-derived tumors in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujin Sun
- Department of Radiology; Seoul National University Hospital; 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu Seoul 110-744 South Korea
- Department of Radiology; Yanbian University Hospital; 1327 JuZi Street Yanji City JiLin Province 133000 China
| | - Hoe Suk Kim
- Department of Radiology; Seoul National University Hospital; 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu Seoul 110-744 South Korea
| | - Phei Er Saw
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST); 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu Daejeon 305-701 South Korea
| | - Sangyong Jon
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST); 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu Daejeon 305-701 South Korea
| | - Woo Kyung Moon
- Department of Radiology; Seoul National University Hospital; 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu Seoul 110-744 South Korea
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Vinet L, Lamprianou S, Babič A, Lange N, Thorel F, Herrera PL, Montet X, Meda P. Targeting GLP-1 receptors for repeated magnetic resonance imaging differentiates graded losses of pancreatic beta cells in mice. Diabetologia 2015; 58:304-12. [PMID: 25413047 PMCID: PMC4287680 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-014-3442-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 10/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Non-invasive imaging of beta cells is a much-needed development but is one that faces significant biological and technological hurdles. A relevant imaging method should at least allow for an evaluation over time of the mass of beta cells under physiological and pathological conditions, and for an assessment of novel therapies. We, therefore, investigated the ability of a new MRI probe to repeatedly measure the loss of beta cells in a rodent model. METHODS We developed an innovative nanoparticle probe that targets the glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor, and can be used for both fluorescence imaging and MRI. Using fluorescence, we characterised the specificity and biodistribution of the probe. Using 1.5 T MRI, we longitudinally imaged the changes in insulin content in male and female mice of the RIP-DTr strain, which mimic the changes expected in type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively. RESULTS We showed that this probe selectively labelled beta cells in situ, imaged in vivo native pancreatic islets and evaluated their loss after diphtheria toxin administration, in a model of graded beta cell deletion. Thus, using clinical MRI, the probe quantitatively differentiates, in the same mouse strain, between female animals featuring a 50% loss of beta cells and the males featuring an almost complete loss of beta cells. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION The approach addresses several of the hurdles that have so far limited the non-invasive imaging of beta cells, including the potential to repeatedly monitor the very same animals using clinically available equipment, and to differentiate graded losses of beta cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Vinet
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, CMU, 1 rue Michel-Servet, CH-1211, Geneva 4, Switzerland,
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Alcantara D, Leal MP, García-Bocanegra I, García-Martín ML. Molecular imaging of breast cancer: present and future directions. Front Chem 2014; 2:112. [PMID: 25566530 PMCID: PMC4270251 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2014.00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical imaging technologies have undergone explosive growth over the past few decades and now play a central role in clinical oncology. But the truly transformative power of imaging in the clinical management of cancer patients lies ahead. Today, imaging is at a crossroads, with molecularly targeted imaging agents expected to broadly expand the capabilities of conventional anatomical imaging methods. Molecular imaging will allow clinicians to not only see where a tumor is located in the body, but also to visualize the expression and activity of specific molecules (e.g., proteases and protein kinases) and biological processes (e.g., apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis) that influence tumor behavior and/or response to therapy. Breast cancer, the most common cancer among women and a research area where our group is actively involved, is a very heterogeneous disease with diverse patterns of development and response to treatment. Hence, molecular imaging is expected to have a major impact on this type of cancer, leading to important improvements in diagnosis, individualized treatment, and drug development, as well as our understanding of how breast cancer arises.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Alcantara
- Laboratory of Metabolomics and Molecular Imaging, BIONAND, Centro Andaluz de Nanomedicina y Biotecnología (Junta de Andalucía, Universidad de Málaga) Malaga, Spain
| | - Manuel Pernia Leal
- Laboratory of Metabolomics and Molecular Imaging, BIONAND, Centro Andaluz de Nanomedicina y Biotecnología (Junta de Andalucía, Universidad de Málaga) Malaga, Spain
| | - Irene García-Bocanegra
- Laboratory of Metabolomics and Molecular Imaging, BIONAND, Centro Andaluz de Nanomedicina y Biotecnología (Junta de Andalucía, Universidad de Málaga) Malaga, Spain
| | - Maria L García-Martín
- Laboratory of Metabolomics and Molecular Imaging, BIONAND, Centro Andaluz de Nanomedicina y Biotecnología (Junta de Andalucía, Universidad de Málaga) Malaga, Spain
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