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Muscat S, Errico S, Danani A, Chiti F, Grasso G. Leveraging Machine Learning-Guided Molecular Simulations Coupled with Experimental Data to Decipher Membrane Binding Mechanisms of Aminosterols. J Chem Theory Comput 2024. [PMID: 38979909 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.4c00127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the molecular mechanisms of the interactions between specific compounds and cellular membranes is essential for numerous biotechnological applications, including targeted drug delivery, elucidation of the drug mechanism of action, pathogen identification, and novel antibiotic development. However, estimation of the free energy landscape associated with solute binding to realistic biological systems is still a challenging task. In this work, we leverage the Time-lagged Independent Component Analysis (TICA) in combination with neural networks (NN) through the Deep-TICA approach for determining the free energy associated with the membrane insertion processes of two natural aminosterol compounds, trodusquemine (TRO), and squalamine (SQ). These compounds are particularly noteworthy because they interact with the outer layer of neuron membranes, protecting them from the toxic action of misfolded proteins involved in neurodegenerative disorders, in both their monomeric and oligomeric forms. We demonstrate how this strategy could be used to generate an effective collective variable for describing solute absorption in the membrane and for estimating free energy landscape of translocation via on-the-fly probability enhanced sampling (OPES) method. In this context, the computational protocol allowed an exhaustive characterization of the aminosterol entry pathway into a neuron-like lipid bilayer. Furthermore, it provided accurate prediction of membrane binding affinities, in close agreement with the experimental binding data obtained by using fluorescently labeled aminosterols and large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs). The findings contribute significantly to our understanding of aminosterol entry pathways and aminosterol-lipid membrane interactions. Finally, the computational methods deployed in this study further demonstrate considerable potential for investigating membrane binding processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Muscat
- Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence IDSIA USI-SUPSI, Via la Santa 1 ,Lugano-Viganello 6962, Switzerland
| | - Silvia Errico
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Andrea Danani
- Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence IDSIA USI-SUPSI, Via la Santa 1 ,Lugano-Viganello 6962, Switzerland
| | - Fabrizio Chiti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Gianvito Grasso
- Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence IDSIA USI-SUPSI, Via la Santa 1 ,Lugano-Viganello 6962, Switzerland
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2
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Lifshits LA, Breuer Y, Sova M, Gupta S, Kadosh D, Weinberg E, Hayouka Z, Bar DZ, Gal M. Nature-inspired peptide of MtDef4 C-terminus tail enables protein delivery in mammalian cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4604. [PMID: 38409451 PMCID: PMC10897151 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55274-4] [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: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides show promise as versatile tools for intracellular delivery of therapeutic agents. Various peptides have originated from natural proteins with antimicrobial activity. We investigated the mammalian cell-penetrating properties of a 16-residue peptide with the sequence GRCRGFRRRCFCTTHC from the C-terminus tail of the Medicago truncatula defensin MtDef4. We evaluated the peptide's ability to penetrate multiple cell types. Our results demonstrate that the peptide efficiently penetrates mammalian cells within minutes and at a micromolar concentration. Moreover, upon N-terminal fusion to the fluorescent protein GFP, the peptide efficiently delivers GFP into the cells. Despite its remarkable cellular permeability, the peptide has only a minor effect on cellular viability, making it a promising candidate for developing a cell-penetrating peptide with potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Adriana Lifshits
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Medicine, The Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yoav Breuer
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Medicine, The Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Marina Sova
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Medicine, The Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sumit Gupta
- BLAVATNIK CENTER for Drug Discovery, Tel-Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dar Kadosh
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Medicine, The Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Evgeny Weinberg
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Medicine, The Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Zvi Hayouka
- Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agricultural, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 76100, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Daniel Z Bar
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Medicine, The Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Maayan Gal
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Medicine, The Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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3
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Zhang J, Cui B, He T, Hei R, Yang L, Liu C, Wu X, Wang X, Gao Z, Lin F, Zhang H, Dong K. Enhancing Neuroprotection in Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease through Protein Nanosystem Conjugation with ApoE Peptide for miR-124 Delivery. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:8199-8212. [PMID: 38345297 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c13849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) affects millions of people's lives worldwide. The main pathogenesis of PD is dopaminergic neuron necrosis and neuroinflammation mediated by activated microglia cells. In recent years, the anti-inflammatory ability and neuroprotective effects of miR-124 in PD models were well proved, but the in vivo delivery of miR-124 remains challenging. Herein, we report a protein nanosystem modified with a brain-targeting peptide ApoE that could efficiently deliver miR-124 across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This nanosystem showed good cell viability on brain endothelial cells and microglia cells, and administration of this nanosystem significantly decreased the neuroinflammation and dopaminergic neuron loss, as well as recovered parts of neurobehavioral deficits. This ApoE peptide-based protein nanosystem holds great promise for the delivery of RNA therapeutics to the brain and for realizing neuron protection in PD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Bozhou Cui
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Ting He
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Ruoxuan Hei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Lan Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Chong Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Xianan Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Zhaowei Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Fang Lin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Huizhong Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Ke Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
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Klug J, Berberián MV, López Martí JM, Mayorga LS, Del Pópolo MG. Membrane Binding Strength vs Pore Formation Cost─What Drives the Membrane Permeation of Nanoparticles Coated with Cell-Penetrating Peptides? J Phys Chem B 2024; 128:937-948. [PMID: 38232319 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c06461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) enable the transport of nanoparticles through cell membranes. Using molecular simulations, we conduct an in-depth investigation into the thermodynamic forces governing the passive translocation of CPP-coated nanoparticles across lipid bilayers, contrasting their behavior with that of bare particles to dissect the contribution of the peptides. Our analysis unveils a distinctive two-stage translocation mechanism, where the adsorption energy of the particles overcomes the cost of forming a hydrophilic transmembrane pore. Proper evaluation of the translocation mechanisms is only possible when using two reaction coordinates, in particular, one that explicitly includes the density of the lipids on the binding site of the particle. An analysis of adsorption and activation free energies in terms of a simple kinetic model provides a clearer understanding of the CPP effect. Experimental validation using nonendocytic cells confirms the superior membrane permeation of CPP-coated particles. Our findings have implications for the rational design of more efficient cell-permeating particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquín Klug
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Atlantic Technological University, ATU Sligo, Ash Lane, Sligo F91 YW50, Ireland
| | - María Victoria Berberián
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) CONICET/UNCUYO. Centro Universitario, Mendoza M5502JMA, Argentina
- Instituto Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Básicas (ICB)─CONICET/UNCUYO, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
| | - Jesús M López Martí
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
| | - Luis S Mayorga
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) CONICET/UNCUYO. Centro Universitario, Mendoza M5502JMA, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
| | - Mario G Del Pópolo
- Instituto Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Básicas (ICB)─CONICET/UNCUYO, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
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Klinsky OG, Wetten PA, Zanni-Ruiz E, Pavarotti MA, Berberian MV, Michaut MA. The light chain of tetanus toxin bound to arginine-rich cell-penetrating peptide inhibits cortical reaction in mouse oocytes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1259421. [PMID: 38033867 PMCID: PMC10684777 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1259421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cortical reaction is a secretory process that occurs after a spermatozoon fuses with the oocyte, avoiding the fusion of additional sperm. During this exocytic event, the cortical granule membrane fuses with the oocyte plasma membrane. We have identified several molecular components involved in this process and confirmed that SNARE proteins regulate membrane fusion during cortical reaction in mouse oocytes. In those studies, we microinjected different nonpermeable reagents to demonstrate the participation of a specific protein in the cortical reaction. However, the microinjection technique has several limitations. In this work, we aimed to assess the potential of cell-penetrating peptides (CPP) as biotechnological tools for delivering molecules into oocytes, and to evaluate the functionality of the permeable tetanus toxin (bound to CPP sequence) during cortical reaction. Methods: Arginine-rich cell-penetrating peptides have demonstrated the optimal internalization of small molecules in mammalian cells. Two arginine-rich CPP were used in the present study. One, labeled with 5-carboxyfluorescein, to characterize the factors that can modulate its internalization, and the other, the permeable light chain of tetanus toxin, that cleaves the SNAREs VAMP1 and VAMP3 expressed in mouse oocytes. Results: Results showed that fluorescent CPP was internalized into the oocyte cytoplasm and that internalization was dependent on the concentration, time, temperature, and maturation stage of the oocyte. Using our functional assay to study cortical reaction, the light chain of tetanus toxin bound to arginine-rich cell-penetrating peptide inhibited cortical granules exocytosis. Discussion: Results obtained from the use of permeable peptides demonstrate that this CPP is a promising biotechnological tool to study functional macromolecules in mouse oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar G. Klinsky
- Laboratorio de Biología Reproductiva y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Paula A. Wetten
- Laboratorio de Biología Reproductiva y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Emilia Zanni-Ruiz
- Laboratorio de Transporte Intracelular, Instituto de Histología and Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Martín A. Pavarotti
- Laboratorio de Transporte Intracelular, Instituto de Histología and Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Berberian
- Laboratorio de Transporte Intracelular, Instituto de Histología and Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- Instituto Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Marcela A. Michaut
- Laboratorio de Biología Reproductiva y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
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6
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Graceffa V. Intracellular protein delivery: New insights into the therapeutic applications and emerging technologies. Biochimie 2023; 213:82-99. [PMID: 37209808 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.05.011] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The inability to cross the plasma membranes traditionally limited the therapeutic use of recombinant proteins. However, in the last two decades, novel technologies made delivering proteins inside the cells possible. This allowed researchers to unlock intracellular targets, once considered 'undruggable', bringing a new research area to emerge. Protein transfection systems display a large potential in a plethora of applications. However, their modality of action is often unclear, and cytotoxic effects are elevated, whereas experimental conditions to increase transfection efficacy and cell viability still need to be identified. Furthermore, technical complexity often limits in vivo experimentation, while challenging industrial and clinical translation. This review highlights the applications of protein transfection technologies, and then critically discuss the current methodologies and their limitations. Physical membrane perforation systems are compared to systems exploiting cellular endocytosis. Research evidence of the existence of either extracellular vesicles (EVs) or cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs)- based systems, that circumvent the endosomal systems is critically analysed. Commercial systems, novel solid-phase reverse protein transfection systems, and engineered living intracellular bacteria-based mechanisms are finally described. This review ultimately aims at finding new methodologies and possible applications of protein transfection systems, while helping the development of an evidence-based research approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Graceffa
- Cellular Health and Toxicology Research Group (CHAT), Centre for Mathematical Modelling and Intelligent Systems for Health and Environment (MISHE), Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Sligo, Ireland.
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Ivánczi M, Balogh B, Kis L, Mándity I. Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Drug-Conjugated Cell-Penetrating Peptides. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1251. [PMID: 37765059 PMCID: PMC10535489 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091251] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are small peptides capable of translocating through biological membranes carrying various attached cargo into cells and even into the nucleus. They may also participate in transcellular transport. Our in silico study intends to model several peptides and their conjugates. We have selected three CPPs with a linear backbone, including penetratin, a naturally occurring oligopeptide; two of its modified sequence analogues (6,14-Phe-penetratin and dodeca-penetratin); and three natural CPPs with a cyclic backbone: Kalata B1, the Sunflower trypsin inhibitor 1 (SFT1), and Momordica cochinchinensis trypsin inhibitor II (MCoTI-II). We have also built conjugates with the small-molecule drug compounds doxorubicin, zidovudine, and rasagiline for each peptide. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were carried out with explicit membrane models. The analysis of the trajectories showed that the interaction of penetratin with the membrane led to spectacular rearrangements in the secondary structure of the peptide, while cyclic peptides remained unchanged due to their high conformational stability. Membrane-peptide and membrane-conjugate interactions have been identified and compared. Taking into account well-known examples from the literature, our simulations demonstrated the utility of computational methods for CPP complexes, and they may contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism of penetration, which could serve as the basis for delivering conjugated drug molecules to their intracellular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márton Ivánczi
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Hőgyes Endre Utca 7., H-1092 Budapest, Hungary (L.K.)
| | - Balázs Balogh
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Hőgyes Endre Utca 7., H-1092 Budapest, Hungary (L.K.)
| | - Loretta Kis
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Hőgyes Endre Utca 7., H-1092 Budapest, Hungary (L.K.)
| | - István Mándity
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Hőgyes Endre Utca 7., H-1092 Budapest, Hungary (L.K.)
- Artificial Transporters Research Group, Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar Tudósok Körútja 2., H-1117 Budapest, Hungary
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8
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Novorolsky RJ, Kasheke GDS, Hakim A, Foldvari M, Dorighello GG, Sekler I, Vuligonda V, Sanders ME, Renden RB, Wilson JJ, Robertson GS. Preserving and enhancing mitochondrial function after stroke to protect and repair the neurovascular unit: novel opportunities for nanoparticle-based drug delivery. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1226630. [PMID: 37484823 PMCID: PMC10360135 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1226630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The neurovascular unit (NVU) is composed of vascular cells, glia, and neurons that form the basic component of the blood brain barrier. This intricate structure rapidly adjusts cerebral blood flow to match the metabolic needs of brain activity. However, the NVU is exquisitely sensitive to damage and displays limited repair after a stroke. To effectively treat stroke, it is therefore considered crucial to both protect and repair the NVU. Mitochondrial calcium (Ca2+) uptake supports NVU function by buffering Ca2+ and stimulating energy production. However, excessive mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake causes toxic mitochondrial Ca2+ overloading that triggers numerous cell death pathways which destroy the NVU. Mitochondrial damage is one of the earliest pathological events in stroke. Drugs that preserve mitochondrial integrity and function should therefore confer profound NVU protection by blocking the initiation of numerous injury events. We have shown that mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake and efflux in the brain are mediated by the mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter complex (MCUcx) and sodium/Ca2+/lithium exchanger (NCLX), respectively. Moreover, our recent pharmacological studies have demonstrated that MCUcx inhibition and NCLX activation suppress ischemic and excitotoxic neuronal cell death by blocking mitochondrial Ca2+ overloading. These findings suggest that combining MCUcx inhibition with NCLX activation should markedly protect the NVU. In terms of promoting NVU repair, nuclear hormone receptor activation is a promising approach. Retinoid X receptor (RXR) and thyroid hormone receptor (TR) agonists activate complementary transcriptional programs that stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis, suppress inflammation, and enhance the production of new vascular cells, glia, and neurons. RXR and TR agonism should thus further improve the clinical benefits of MCUcx inhibition and NCLX activation by increasing NVU repair. However, drugs that either inhibit the MCUcx, or stimulate the NCLX, or activate the RXR or TR, suffer from adverse effects caused by undesired actions on healthy tissues. To overcome this problem, we describe the use of nanoparticle drug formulations that preferentially target metabolically compromised and damaged NVUs after an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. These nanoparticle-based approaches have the potential to improve clinical safety and efficacy by maximizing drug delivery to diseased NVUs and minimizing drug exposure in healthy brain and peripheral tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn J. Novorolsky
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Brain Repair Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Gracious D. S. Kasheke
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Brain Repair Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Antoine Hakim
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Marianna Foldvari
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Gabriel G. Dorighello
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Brain Repair Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Israel Sekler
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University, Beersheva, Israel
| | | | | | - Robert B. Renden
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Justin J. Wilson
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - George S. Robertson
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Brain Repair Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Zakany F, Mándity IM, Varga Z, Panyi G, Nagy P, Kovacs T. Effect of the Lipid Landscape on the Efficacy of Cell-Penetrating Peptides. Cells 2023; 12:1700. [PMID: 37443733 PMCID: PMC10340183 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Every cell biological textbook teaches us that the main role of the plasma membrane is to separate cells from their neighborhood to allow for a controlled composition of the intracellular space. The mostly hydrophobic nature of the cell membrane presents an impenetrable barrier for most hydrophilic molecules larger than 1 kDa. On the other hand, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are capable of traversing this barrier without compromising membrane integrity, and they can do so on their own or coupled to cargos. Coupling biologically and medically relevant cargos to CPPs holds great promise of delivering membrane-impermeable drugs into cells. If the cargo is able to interact with certain cell types, uptake of the CPP-drug complex can be tailored to be cell-type-specific. Besides outlining the major membrane penetration pathways of CPPs, this review is aimed at deciphering how properties of the membrane influence the uptake mechanisms of CPPs. By summarizing an extensive body of experimental evidence, we argue that a more ordered, less flexible membrane structure, often present in the very diseases planned to be treated with CPPs, decreases their cellular uptake. These correlations are not only relevant for understanding the cellular biology of CPPs, but also for rationally improving their value in translational or clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florina Zakany
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.Z.); (Z.V.); (G.P.)
| | - István M. Mándity
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary;
- TTK Lendület Artificial Transporter Research Group, Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Varga
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.Z.); (Z.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Gyorgy Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.Z.); (Z.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Peter Nagy
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.Z.); (Z.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Tamas Kovacs
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.Z.); (Z.V.); (G.P.)
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10
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De Martini LB, Sulmona C, Brambilla L, Rossi D. Cell-Penetrating Peptides as Valuable Tools for Nose-to-Brain Delivery of Biological Drugs. Cells 2023; 12:1643. [PMID: 37371113 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to their high specificity toward the target and their low toxicity, biological drugs have been successfully employed in a wide range of therapeutic areas. It is yet to be mentioned that biologics exhibit unfavorable pharmacokinetic properties, are susceptible to degradation by endogenous enzymes, and cannot penetrate biological barriers such as the blood-brain barrier (i.e., the major impediment to reaching the central nervous system (CNS)). Attempts to overcome these issues have been made by exploiting the intracerebroventricular and intrathecal routes of administration. The invasiveness and impracticality of these procedures has, however, prompted the development of novel drug delivery strategies including the intranasal route of administration. This represents a non-invasive way to achieve the CNS, reducing systemic exposure. Nonetheless, biotherapeutics strive to penetrate the nasal epithelium, raising the possibility that direct delivery to the nervous system may not be straightforward. To maximize the advantages of the intranasal route, new approaches have been proposed including the use of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) and CPP-functionalized nanosystems. This review aims at describing the most impactful attempts in using CPPs as carriers for the nose-to-brain delivery of biologics by analyzing their positive and negative aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Benedetta De Martini
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri-IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Sulmona
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri-IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Liliana Brambilla
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri-IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniela Rossi
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri-IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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11
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Drexler CI, Cyran JD, Webb LJ. Lipid-Specific Direct Translocation of the Cell-Penetrating Peptide NAF-1 44-67 across Bilayer Membranes. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:2002-2010. [PMID: 36827970 PMCID: PMC10127249 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.2c08076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
The cell-penetrating peptide NAF-1 has recently emerged as a promising candidate for selective penetration and destruction of cancer cells. It displays numerous membrane-selective behaviors including cell-specific uptake and organelle-specific degradation. In this work, we explore membrane penetration and translocation of NAF-1 in model lipid bilayer vesicles as a function of lipid identity in zwitterionic phosphatidylcholine lipids mixed with anionic phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylglycerol, and phosphatidic acid lipids. By monitoring the digestion of NAF-1 using the protease trypsin located inside but not outside the vesicles, we determined that the translocation of NAF-1 was significantly enhanced by the presence of phosphatidic acid in the membrane compared to the other three anionic or zwitterionic lipids. These findings were correlated to fluorescence measurements of dansyl-labeled NAF-1, which revealed whether noncovalent interactions between NAF-1 and the bilayer were most stable either at the membrane/solution interface or within the membrane interior. Phosphatidic acid promoted interactions with fatty acid tails, while phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylserine, and phosphatidylglycerol stabilized interactions with polar lipid headgroups. Interfacial vibrational sum frequency spectroscopy experiments revealed that the phosphate moiety on phosphatidic acid headgroups was better hydrated than on the other three lipids, which helped to shuttle NAF-1 into the hydrophobic region. Our findings demonstrate that permeation does not depend on the net charge on phospholipid lipid headgroups in these model vesicles and suggest a model wherein NAF-1 crosses membranes selectively due to lipid-specific interactions at bilayer surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad I Drexler
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Jenée D Cyran
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Baylor University, Waco, Texas 76706, United States
| | - Lauren J Webb
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
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12
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Meng X, Wu TG, Lou QY, Niu KY, Jiang L, Xiao QZ, Xu T, Zhang L. Optimization of CRISPR-Cas system for clinical cancer therapy. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10474. [PMID: 36925702 PMCID: PMC10013785 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a genetic disease caused by alterations in genome and epigenome and is one of the leading causes for death worldwide. The exploration of disease development and therapeutic strategies at the genetic level have become the key to the treatment of cancer and other genetic diseases. The functional analysis of genes and mutations has been slow and laborious. Therefore, there is an urgent need for alternative approaches to improve the current status of cancer research. Gene editing technologies provide technical support for efficient gene disruption and modification in vivo and in vitro, in particular the use of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas systems. Currently, the applications of CRISPR-Cas systems in cancer rely on different Cas effector proteins and the design of guide RNAs. Furthermore, effective vector delivery must be met for the CRISPR-Cas systems to enter human clinical trials. In this review article, we describe the mechanism of the CRISPR-Cas systems and highlight the applications of class II Cas effector proteins. We also propose a synthetic biology approach to modify the CRISPR-Cas systems, and summarize various delivery approaches facilitating the clinical application of the CRISPR-Cas systems. By modifying the CRISPR-Cas system and optimizing its in vivo delivery, promising and effective treatments for cancers using the CRISPR-Cas system are emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Meng
- College & Hospital of Stomatology Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province Hefei People's Republic of China
| | - Tian-Gang Wu
- College & Hospital of Stomatology Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province Hefei People's Republic of China
| | - Qiu-Yue Lou
- Anhui Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention Hefei People's Republic of China
| | - Kai-Yuan Niu
- Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute (WHRI), Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) Heart Centre (G23) London UK.,Department of Otolaryngology The Third Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University Hefei China
| | - Lei Jiang
- College & Hospital of Stomatology Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province Hefei People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Zhong Xiao
- Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute (WHRI), Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) Heart Centre (G23) London UK
| | - Tao Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Bioactivity of Natural Products Anhui Medical University Hefei China.,Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province Hefei China
| | - Lei Zhang
- College & Hospital of Stomatology Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province Hefei People's Republic of China.,Department of Periodontology Anhui Stomatology Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University Hefei China
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13
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Serulla M, Anees P, Hallaj A, Trofimenko E, Kalia T, Krishnan Y, Widmann C. Plasma membrane depolarization reveals endosomal escape incapacity of cell-penetrating peptides. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 184:116-124. [PMID: 36709921 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2023.01.019] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are short (<30 amino acids), generally cationic, peptides that deliver diverse cargos into cells. CPPs access the cytosol either by direct translocation through the plasma membrane or via endocytosis followed by endosomal escape. Both direct translocation and endosomal escape can occur simultaneously, making it non-trivial to specifically study endosomal escape alone. Here we depolarize the plasma membrane and showed that it inhibits the direct translocation of several CPPs but does not affect their uptake into endosomes. Despite good endocytic uptake many CPPs previously considered to access the cytosol via endosomal escape, failed to access the cytosol once direct translocation was abrogated. Even CPPs designed for enhanced endosomal escape actually showed negligible endosomal escape into the cytosol. Our data reveal that cytosolic localization of CPPs occurs mainly by direct translocation across the plasma membrane. Cell depolarization represents a simple manipulation to stringently test the endosomal escape capacity of CPPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Serulla
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Palapuravan Anees
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Grossman Institute of Neuroscience, Quantitative Biology and Human Behavior, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ali Hallaj
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Evgeniya Trofimenko
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tara Kalia
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Yamuna Krishnan
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Grossman Institute of Neuroscience, Quantitative Biology and Human Behavior, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Christian Widmann
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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14
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Zhang X, Cattoglio C, Zoltek M, Vetralla C, Mozumdar D, Schepartz A. Dose-Dependent Nuclear Delivery and Transcriptional Repression with a Cell-Penetrant MeCP2. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:277-288. [PMID: 36844491 PMCID: PMC9951310 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.2c01226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The vast majority of biologic-based therapeutics operate within serum, on the cell surface, or within endocytic vesicles, in large part because proteins and nucleic acids fail to efficiently cross cell or endosomal membranes. The impact of biologic-based therapeutics would expand exponentially if proteins and nucleic acids could reliably evade endosomal degradation, escape endosomal vesicles, and remain functional. Using the cell-permeant mini-protein ZF5.3, here we report the efficient nuclear delivery of functional Methyl-CpG-binding-protein 2 (MeCP2), a transcriptional regulator whose mutation causes Rett syndrome (RTT). We report that ZF-tMeCP2, a conjugate of ZF5.3 and MeCP2(Δaa13-71, 313-484), binds DNA in a methylation-dependent manner in vitro, and reaches the nucleus of model cell lines intact to achieve an average concentration of 700 nM. When delivered to live cells, ZF-tMeCP2 engages the NCoR/SMRT corepressor complex, selectively represses transcription from methylated promoters, and colocalizes with heterochromatin in mouse primary cortical neurons. We also report that efficient nuclear delivery of ZF-tMeCP2 relies on an endosomal escape portal provided by HOPS-dependent endosomal fusion. The Tat conjugate of MeCP2 (Tat-tMeCP2), evaluated for comparison, is degraded within the nucleus, is not selective for methylated promoters, and trafficks in a HOPS-independent manner. These results support the feasibility of a HOPS-dependent portal for delivering functional macromolecules to the cell interior using the cell-penetrant mini-protein ZF5.3. Such a strategy could broaden the impact of multiple families of biologic-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xizi Zhang
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Claudia Cattoglio
- Department
of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University
of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Howard
Hughes Medical Institute, University of
California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Madeline Zoltek
- Department
of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University
of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Carlo Vetralla
- Department
of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University
of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Howard
Hughes Medical Institute, University of
California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Deepto Mozumdar
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, United States
| | - Alanna Schepartz
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department
of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University
of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- California
Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Chan Zuckerberg
Biohub, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
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15
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Warner JM, An D, Stratton BS, O'Shaughnessy B. A hemifused complex is the hub in a network of pathways to membrane fusion. Biophys J 2023; 122:374-385. [PMID: 36463406 PMCID: PMC9892611 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Membrane fusion is a critical step for many essential processes, from neurotransmission to fertilization. For over 40 years, protein-free fusion driven by calcium or other cationic species has provided a simplified model of biological fusion, but the mechanisms remain poorly understood. Cation-mediated membrane fusion and permeation are essential in their own right to drug delivery strategies based on cell-penetrating peptides or cation-bearing lipid nanoparticles. Experimental studies suggest calcium drives anionic membranes to a hemifused intermediate that constitutes a hub in a network of pathways, but the pathway selection mechanism is unknown. Here we develop a mathematical model that identifies the network hub as a highly dynamic hemifusion complex. Multivalent cations drive expansion of this high-tension hemifusion interface between interacting vesicles during a brief transient. The fate of this interface determines the outcome, either fusion, dead-end hemifusion, or vesicle lysis. The model reproduces the unexplained finding that calcium-driven fusion of vesicles with planar membranes typically stalls at hemifusion, and we show the equilibrated hemifused state is a novel lens-shaped complex. Thus, membrane fusion kinetics follow a stochastic trajectory within a network of pathways, with outcome weightings set by a hemifused complex intermediate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Warner
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Dong An
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | | | - Ben O'Shaughnessy
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York.
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16
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Chintapula U, Yang S, Nguyen T, Li Y, Jaworski J, Dong H, Nguyen KT. Supramolecular Peptide Nanofiber/PLGA Nanocomposites for Enhancing Pulmonary Drug Delivery. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:56498-56509. [PMID: 36475601 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c15204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Effective drug delivery to pulmonary sites will benefit from the design and synthesis of novel drug delivery systems that can overcome various tissue and cellular barriers. Cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) have shown promise for intracellular delivery of various imaging probes and therapeutics. Although CPPs improve delivery efficacy to a certain extent, they still lack the scope of engineering to improve the payload capacity and protect the payload from the physiological environment in drug delivery applications. Inspired by recent advances of CPPs and CPP-functionalized nanoparticles, in this work, we demonstrate a novel nanocomposite consisting of fiber-forming supramolecular CPPs that are coated onto polylactic-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles to enhance pulmonary drug delivery. These nanocomposites show a threefold higher intracellular delivery of nanoparticles in various cells including primary lung epithelial cells, macrophages, and a 10-fold increase in endothelial cells compared to naked PLGA nanoparticles or a twofold increase compared to nanoparticles modified with traditional monomeric CPPs. Cell uptake studies suggest that nanocomposites likely enter cells through mixed macropinocytosis and passive energy-independent mechanisms, which is followed by endosomal escape within 24 h. Nanocomposites also showed potent mucus permeation. More importantly, freeze-drying and nebulizing formulated nanocomposite powder did not affect their physiochemical and biological activity, which further highlights the translative potential for use as a stable drug carrier for pulmonary drug delivery. We expect nanocomposites based on peptide nanofibers, and PLGA nanoparticles can be custom designed to encapsulate and deliver a wide range of therapeutics including nucleic acids, proteins, and small-molecule drugs when employed in inhalable systems to treat various pulmonary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uday Chintapula
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Arlington, Engineering Research Building, Room 226, 500 UTA Blvd., Arlington, Texas 76010, United States
| | - Su Yang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Chemistry & Physics Building, Room 130, 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington, Texas 76019, United States
| | - Trinh Nguyen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Arlington, Engineering Research Building, Room 226, 500 UTA Blvd., Arlington, Texas 76010, United States
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas at Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Justyn Jaworski
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Arlington, Engineering Research Building, Room 226, 500 UTA Blvd., Arlington, Texas 76010, United States
| | - He Dong
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Chemistry & Physics Building, Room 130, 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington, Texas 76019, United States
| | - Kytai T Nguyen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Arlington, Engineering Research Building, Room 226, 500 UTA Blvd., Arlington, Texas 76010, United States
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17
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Ouyang J, Sheng Y, Wang W. Recent Advances of Studies on Cell-Penetrating Peptides Based on Molecular Dynamics Simulations. Cells 2022; 11:cells11244016. [PMID: 36552778 PMCID: PMC9776715 DOI: 10.3390/cells11244016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
With the ability to transport cargo molecules across cell membranes with low toxicity, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have become promising candidates for next generation peptide-based drug delivery vectors. Over the past three decades since the first CPP was discovered, a great deal of work has been done on the cellular uptake mechanisms and the applications for the delivery of therapeutic molecules, and significant advances have been made. But so far, we still do not have a precise and unified understanding of the structure-activity relationship of the CPPs. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations provide a method to reveal peptide-membrane interactions at the atomistic level and have become an effective complement to experiments. In this paper, we review the progress of the MD simulations on CPP-membrane interactions, including the computational methods and technical improvements in the MD simulations, the research achievements in the CPP internalization mechanism, CPP decoration and coupling, and the peptide-induced membrane reactions during the penetration process, as well as the comparison of simulated and experimental results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Ouyang
- School of Public Courses, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yuebiao Sheng
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- High Performance Computing Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Correspondence: (Y.S.); (W.W.)
| | - Wei Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Correspondence: (Y.S.); (W.W.)
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18
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Porosk L, Langel Ü. Approaches for evaluation of novel CPP-based cargo delivery systems. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1056467. [PMID: 36339538 PMCID: PMC9634181 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1056467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) can be broadly defined as relatively short synthetic, protein derived or chimeric peptides. Their most remarkable property is their ability to cross cell barriers and facilitate the translocation of cargo, such as drugs, nucleic acids, peptides, small molecules, dyes, and many others across the plasma membrane. Over the years there have been several approaches used, adapted, and developed for the evaluation of CPP efficacies as delivery systems, with the fluorophore attachment as the most widely used approach. It has become progressively evident, that the evaluation method, in order to lead to successful outcome, should concede with the specialties of the delivery. For characterization and assessment of CPP-cargo a combination of research tools of chemistry, physics, molecular biology, engineering, and other fields have been applied. In this review, we summarize the diverse, in silico, in vitro and in vivo approaches used for evaluation and characterization of CPP-based cargo delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ly Porosk
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Institute of Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ülo Langel
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Institute of Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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19
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Gouthu S, Mandelli C, Eubanks BA, Deluc LG. Transgene-free genome editing and RNAi ectopic application in fruit trees: Potential and limitations. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:979742. [PMID: 36325537 PMCID: PMC9621297 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.979742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
For the past fifteen years, significant research advances in sequencing technology have led to a substantial increase in fruit tree genomic resources and databases with a massive number of OMICS datasets (transcriptomic, proteomics, metabolomics), helping to find associations between gene(s) and performance traits. Meanwhile, new technology tools have emerged for gain- and loss-of-function studies, specifically in gene silencing and developing tractable plant models for genetic transformation. Additionally, innovative and adapted transformation protocols have optimized genetic engineering in most fruit trees. The recent explosion of new gene-editing tools allows for broadening opportunities for functional studies in fruit trees. Yet, the fruit tree research community has not fully embraced these new technologies to provide large-scale genome characterizations as in cereals and other staple food crops. Instead, recent research efforts in the fruit trees appear to focus on two primary translational tools: transgene-free gene editing via Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) delivery and the ectopic application of RNA-based products in the field for crop protection. The inherent nature of the propagation system and the long juvenile phase of most fruit trees are significant justifications for the first technology. The second approach might have the public favor regarding sustainability and an eco-friendlier environment for a crop production system that could potentially replace the use of chemicals. Regardless of their potential, both technologies still depend on the foundational knowledge of gene-to-trait relationships generated from basic genetic studies. Therefore, we will discuss the status of gene silencing and DNA-based gene editing techniques for functional studies in fruit trees followed by the potential and limitations of their translational tools (RNP delivery and RNA-based products) in the context of crop production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satyanarayana Gouthu
- Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Christian Mandelli
- Oregon Wine Research Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Britt A. Eubanks
- Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Laurent G. Deluc
- Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Oregon Wine Research Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
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20
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Nguyen MT, Biriukov D, Tempra C, Baxova K, Martinez-Seara H, Evci H, Singh V, Šachl R, Hof M, Jungwirth P, Javanainen M, Vazdar M. Ionic Strength and Solution Composition Dictate the Adsorption of Cell-Penetrating Peptides onto Phosphatidylcholine Membranes. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:11284-11295. [PMID: 36083171 PMCID: PMC9494944 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c01435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Adsorption of arginine-rich positively charged peptides onto neutral zwitterionic phosphocholine (PC) bilayers is a key step in the translocation of those potent cell-penetrating peptides into the cell interior. In the past, we have shown both theoretically and experimentally that polyarginines adsorb to the neutral PC-supported lipid bilayers in contrast to polylysines. However, comparing our results with previous studies showed that the results often do not match even at the qualitative level. The adsorption of arginine-rich peptides onto 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) may qualitatively depend on the actual experimental conditions where binding experiments have been performed. In this work, we systematically studied the adsorption of R9 and K9 peptides onto the POPC bilayer, aided by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy (FCCS) experiments. Using MD simulations, we tested a series of increasing peptide concentrations, in parallel with increasing Na+ and Ca2+ salt concentrations, showing that the apparent strength of adsorption of R9 decreases upon the increase of peptide or salt concentration in the system. The key result from the simulations is that the salt concentrations used experimentally can alter the picture of peptide adsorption qualitatively. Using FCCS experiments with fluorescently labeled R9 and K9, we first demonstrated that the binding of R9 to POPC is tighter by almost 2 orders of magnitude compared to that of K9. Finally, upon the addition of an excess of either Na+ or Ca2+ ions with R9, the total fluorescence correlation signal is lost, which implies the unbinding of R9 from the PC bilayer, in agreement with our predictions from MD simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Thi
Hong Nguyen
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo nám. 542/2, CZ-16000 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Denys Biriukov
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo nám. 542/2, CZ-16000 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Carmelo Tempra
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo nám. 542/2, CZ-16000 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Katarina Baxova
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo nám. 542/2, CZ-16000 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Hector Martinez-Seara
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo nám. 542/2, CZ-16000 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Hüseyin Evci
- J.
Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Czech Academy
of Sciences, Dolejškova
2155/3, CZ-18223 Prague 8, Czech Republic
- Department
of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University
of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech
Republic
| | - Vandana Singh
- J.
Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Czech Academy
of Sciences, Dolejškova
2155/3, CZ-18223 Prague 8, Czech Republic
- Faculty
of Mathematics and Physics at Charles University, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radek Šachl
- J.
Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Czech Academy
of Sciences, Dolejškova
2155/3, CZ-18223 Prague 8, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hof
- J.
Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Czech Academy
of Sciences, Dolejškova
2155/3, CZ-18223 Prague 8, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Jungwirth
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo nám. 542/2, CZ-16000 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Matti Javanainen
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo nám. 542/2, CZ-16000 Prague 6, Czech Republic
- Institute
of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 University
of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mario Vazdar
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo nám. 542/2, CZ-16000 Prague 6, Czech Republic
- Department
of Mathematics, University of Chemistry
and Technology, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic
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21
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Yang W, Yan J, Zhuang P, Ding T, Chen Y, Zhang Y, Zhang H, Cui W. Progress of delivery methods for CRISPR-Cas9. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2022; 19:913-926. [PMID: 35818792 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2022.2100342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gene therapy is becoming increasingly common in clinical practice, giving hope for the correction of a wide range of human diseases and defects. The CRISPR/Cas9 system, consisting of the Cas9 nuclease and single-guide RNA (sgRNA), has revolutionized the field of gene editing. However, efficiently delivering the CRISPR-Cas9 to the target organ or cell remains a significant challenge. In recent years, with rapid advances in nanoscience, materials science, and medicine, researchers have developed various technologies that can deliver CRISPR-Cas9 in different forms for in vitro and in vivo gene editing. Here, we review the development of the CRISPR-Cas9 and describe the delivery forms and the vectors that have emerged in CRISPR-Cas9 delivery, summarizing the key barriers and the promising strategies that vectors currently face in delivering the CRISPR-Cas9. AREAS COVERED With the rapid development of CRISPR-Cas9, delivery methods are becoming increasingly important in the in vivo delivery of CRISPR-Cas9. EXPERT OPINION CRISPR-Cas9 is becoming increasingly common in clinical trials. However, the complex nuclease and protease environment is a tremendous challenge for in vivo clinical applications. Therefore, the development of delivery methods is highly likely to take the application of CRISPR-Cas9 technology to another level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wu Yang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.,Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland.,Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland
| | - Jiaqi Yan
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.,Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland.,Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland
| | - Pengzhen Zhuang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.,Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland.,Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland
| | - Tao Ding
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.,Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland.,Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.,Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland.,Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland
| | - Hongbo Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.,Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland.,Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, 20520, Finland
| | - Wenguo Cui
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
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22
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Xian W, Hennefarth MR, Lee MW, Do T, Lee EY, Alexandrova AN, Wong GCL. Histidine-Mediated Ion Specific Effects Enable Salt Tolerance of a Pore-Forming Marine Antimicrobial Peptide. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202108501. [PMID: 35352449 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202108501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) preferentially permeate prokaryotic membranes via electrostatic binding and membrane remodeling. Such action is drastically suppressed by high salt due to increased electrostatic screening, thus it is puzzling how marine AMPs can possibly work. We examine as a model system, piscidin-1, a histidine-rich marine AMP, and show that ion-histidine interactions play unanticipated roles in membrane remodeling at high salt: Histidines can simultaneously hydrogen-bond to a phosphate and coordinate with an alkali metal ion to neutralize phosphate charge, thereby facilitating multidentate bonds to lipid headgroups in order to generate saddle-splay curvature, a prerequisite to pore formation. A comparison among Na+ , K+ , and Cs+ indicates that histidine-mediated salt tolerance is ion specific. We conclude that histidine plays a unique role in enabling protein/peptide-membrane interactions that occur in marine or other high-salt environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wujing Xian
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Matthew R Hennefarth
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Michelle W Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Tran Do
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Ernest Y Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Anastassia N Alexandrova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,California Nano Systems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Gerard C L Wong
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,California Nano Systems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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23
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Xian W, Hennefarth MR, Lee MW, Do T, Lee EY, Alexandrova AN, Wong GCL. Histidine‐Mediated Ion Specific Effects Enable Salt Tolerance of a Pore‐Forming Marine Antimicrobial Peptide. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202108501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wujing Xian
- Department of Bioengineering University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Matthew R. Hennefarth
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Michelle W. Lee
- Department of Bioengineering University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Tran Do
- Department of Bioengineering University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Ernest Y. Lee
- Department of Bioengineering University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Anastassia N. Alexandrova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
- California Nano Systems Institute University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Gerard C. L. Wong
- Department of Bioengineering University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
- California Nano Systems Institute University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
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24
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Wei X, Li L, Wu Y, Liu J. Cell-Penetrating Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A With Improved Cellular Uptake and Therapeutic Index. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:828427. [PMID: 35223792 PMCID: PMC8874009 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.828427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxin serotype A (BoNTA) is widely used for treating neuromuscular disorders. Despite of the various marketed products, BoNTA is known to have small therapeutic index ranging from 5 to 15. In the present study, we designed and characterized engineered BoNTA proteins with fusion of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs). We have shown that CPPs, particularly a recently reported zinc finger protein could improve the cellular uptake and intramuscular therapeutic index of BoNTA. Our study has shed the light on developing next-generation neuromuscular modulators using CPP fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wei
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Li
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiwen Wu
- Department of Neurology & Institute of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Clinical Research and Trial Center, Shanghai, China
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25
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Geng J, Xia X, Teng L, Wang L, Chen L, Guo X, Belingon B, Li J, Feng X, Li X, Shang W, Wan Y, Wang H. Emerging landscape of cell-penetrating peptide-mediated nucleic acid delivery and their utility in imaging, gene-editing, and RNA-sequencing. J Control Release 2022; 341:166-183. [PMID: 34822907 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.11.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The safety issues like immunogenicity and unacceptable cancer risk of viral vectors for DNA/mRNA vaccine delivery necessitate the development of non-viral vectors with no toxicity. Among the non-viral strategies, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been a topic of interest recently because of their ability to cross plasma membranes and facilitate nucleic acids delivery both in vivo and in vitro. In addition to the application in the field of gene vaccine and gene therapy, CPPs based nucleic acids delivery have been proved by its potential application like gene editing, RNA-sequencing, and imaging. Here, we focus on summarizing the recent applications and progress of CPPs-mediated nucleic acids delivery and discuss the current problems and solutions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingping Geng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Xuan Xia
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Lin Teng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The First Clinical Medical College of China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Lidan Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Linlin Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Affiliated Ren He Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Xiangli Guo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Bonn Belingon
- Institute of Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21210, USA
| | - Jason Li
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21210, USA
| | - Xuemei Feng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Xianghui Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Wendou Shang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Yingying Wan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Hu Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China.
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