1
|
Ji Y, Chen W, Wang X. Bromodomain and Extraterminal Domain Protein 2 in Multiple Human Diseases. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 389:277-288. [PMID: 38565308 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.123.002036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain and extraterminal domain protein 2 (BRD2), a member of the bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) protein family, is a crucial epigenetic regulator with significant function in various diseases and cellular processes. The central function of BRD2 is modulating gene transcription by binding to acetylated lysine residues on histones and transcription factors. This review highlights key findings on BRD2 in recent years, emphasizing its roles in maintaining genomic stability, influencing chromatin spatial organization, and participating in transcriptional regulation. BRD2's diverse functions are underscored by its involvement in diseases such as malignant tumors, neurologic disorders, inflammatory conditions, metabolic diseases, and virus infection. Notably, the potential role of BRD2 as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target is discussed in the context of various diseases. Although pan inhibitors targeting the BET family have shown promise in preclinical studies, a critical need exists for the development of highly selective BRD2 inhibitors. In conclusion, this review offers insights into the multifaceted nature of BRD2 and calls for continued research to unravel its intricate mechanisms and harness its therapeutic potential. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: BRD2 is involved in the occurrence and development of diseases through maintaining genomic stability, influencing chromatin spatial organization, and participating in transcriptional regulation. Targeting BRD2 through protein degradation-targeting complexes technology is emerging as a promising therapeutic approach for malignant cancer and inflammatory diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yikang Ji
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
| | - Wantao Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang R, Xie S, Ran J, Li T. Restraining the power of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras in the cage: A necessary and important refinement for therapeutic safety. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31255. [PMID: 38501341 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) represent a significant advancement in therapeutic drug development by leveraging the ubiquitin-proteasome system to enable targeted protein degradation, particularly impacting oncology. This review delves into the various types of PROTACs, such as peptide-based, nucleic acid-based, and small molecule PROTACs, each addressing distinct challenges in protein degradation. It also discusses innovative strategies like bridged PROTACs and conditional switch-activated PROTACs, offering precise targeting of previously "undruggable" proteins. The potential of PROTACs extends beyond oncology, with ongoing research and technological advancements needed to maximize their therapeutic potential. Future progress in this field relies on interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of advanced computational tools to open new treatment avenues across various diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renshuai Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Center for Cell Structure and Function, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Songbo Xie
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Center for Cell Structure and Function, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Jie Ran
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Center for Cell Structure and Function, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Te Li
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wu J, Wang X, Wang Y, Xun Z, Li S. Application of PLGA in Tumor Immunotherapy. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1253. [PMID: 38732722 PMCID: PMC11085488 DOI: 10.3390/polym16091253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable polymers have been extensively researched in the field of biomedicine. Polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), a biodegradable polymer material, has been widely used in drug delivery systems and has shown great potential in various medical fields, including vaccines, tissue engineering such as bone regeneration and wound healing, and 3D printing. Cancer, a group of diseases with high mortality rates worldwide, has recently garnered significant attention in the field of immune therapy research. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the delivery function of PLGA in tumor immunotherapy. In tumor immunotherapy, PLGA can serve as a carrier to load antigens on its surface, thereby enhancing the immune system's ability to attack tumor cells. Additionally, PLGA can be used to formulate tumor vaccines and immunoadjuvants, thereby enhancing the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy. PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) can also enhance the effectiveness of tumor immunotherapy by regulating the activity and differentiation of immune cells, and by improving the expression and presentation of tumor antigens. Furthermore, due to the diverse physical properties and surface modifications of PLGA, it has a wider range of potential applications in tumor immunotherapy through the loading of various types of drugs or other innovative substances. We aim to highlight the recent advances and challenges of plga in the field of oncology therapy to stimulate further research and development of innovative PLGA-based approaches, and more effective and personalized cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiashuai Wu
- Innovation Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; (J.W.); (X.W.)
| | - Xiaopeng Wang
- Innovation Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; (J.W.); (X.W.)
| | - Yunduan Wang
- School of Intelligent Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China;
| | - Zhe Xun
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Obesity and Glucose/Lipid Associated Metabolic Diseases, Health Science Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Shuo Li
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen N, Zhang Z, Liu X, Wang H, Guo RC, Wang H, Hu B, Shi Y, Zhang P, Liu Z, Yu Z. Sulfatase-Induced In Situ Formulation of Antineoplastic Supra-PROTACs. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:10753-10766. [PMID: 38578841 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00826] [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: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology is an innovative strategy for cancer therapy, which, however, suffers from poor targeting delivery and limited capability for protein of interest (POI) degradation. Here, we report a strategy for the in situ formulation of antineoplastic Supra-PROTACs via intracellular sulfatase-responsive assembly of peptides. Coassembling a sulfated peptide with two ligands binding to ubiquitin VHL and Bcl-xL leads to the formation of a pro-Supra-PROTAC, in which the ratio of the two ligands is rationally optimized based on their protein binding affinity. The resulting pro-Supra-PROTAC precisely undergoes enzyme-responsive assembly into nanofibrous Supra-PROTACs in cancer cells overexpressing sulfatase. Mechanistic studies reveal that the pro-Supra-PROTACs selectively cause apparent cytotoxicity to cancer cells through the degradation of Bcl-xL and the activation of caspase-dependent apoptosis, during which the rationally optimized ligand ratio improves the bioactivity for POI degradation and cell death. In vivo studies show that in situ formulation enhanced the tumor accumulation and retention of the pro-Supra-PROTACs, as well as the capability for inhibiting tumor growth with excellent biosafety when coadministrating with chemodrugs. Our findings provide a new approach for enzyme-regulated assembly of peptides in living cells and the development of PROTACs with high targeting delivering and POI degradation efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ninglin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Institute of Polymer Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, 36 Lushan Road, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China
| | - Zeyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Institute of Polymer Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Institute of Polymer Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Hongbo Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Ruo-Chen Guo
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Institute of Polymer Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Institute of Polymer Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Binbin Hu
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Institute of Polymer Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yang Shi
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, 36 Lushan Road, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China
| | - Zhonghua Liu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, 36 Lushan Road, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China
| | - Zhilin Yu
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Institute of Polymer Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang X, Zhao Y, Li X, Zhang Q, He J, Liu Y, Li M, Luo Z. Liposomal STAT3-Degrading PROTAC Prodrugs Promote Anti-Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immunity via Chemically Reprogramming Cancer Stem Cells. NANO LETTERS 2024. [PMID: 38598369 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c00201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) with hyperactivated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) are a major driver of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Herein, we report a nanointegrative proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC)-based STAT3 degradation strategy that enables efficient chemical reprogramming of HCC-associated CSCs, which potently inhibits CSC growth while evoking anti-HCC immune responses. The PROTAC prodrug was synthesized by conjugating the STAT3 binding domain (inS3) with a thioketal-caged E3 ligase ligand (VL-TK) via an oligo(ethylene glycol) linker (OEG) with tuned length and flexibility and encapsulating it in cRGD-modified cationic liposomes for CSC-targeted delivery while facilitating their lysosomal escape. The PROTAC prodrugs were activated by the upregulated ROS levels in CSCs and efficiently degraded STAT3 for chemical reprogramming, which would not only impair their stemness features but also remodel the immunosuppressive TME into an immunosupportive state to boost anti-HCC immunity. This strategy provides an approach for improving HCC treatment in clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Youbo Zhao
- Center for Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xin Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Qiqi Zhang
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Jinming He
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Yingqi Liu
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Menghuan Li
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Zhong Luo
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xu YD, Liang XC, Li ZP, Wu ZS, Yang J, Jia SZ, Peng R, Li ZY, Wang XH, Luo FJ, Chen JJ, Cheng WX, Zhang P, Zha ZG, Zeng R, Zhang HT. Apoptotic body-inspired nanotherapeutics efficiently attenuate osteoarthritis by targeting BRD4-regulated synovial macrophage polarization. Biomaterials 2024; 306:122483. [PMID: 38330742 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is the most well-studied BET protein that is important for the innate immune response. We recently revealed that targeting BRD4 triggers apoptosis in tumor-associated macrophages, but its role in synovial macrophages and joint inflammation is largely unknown. Herein, we demonstrated that BRD4 was highly expressed in the iNOS-positive M1 macrophages in the human and mouse osteoarthritis (OA) synovium, and conditional knockout of BRD4 in the myeloid lineage using Lyz2-cre; BRD4flox/flox mice significantly abolished anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT)-induced M1 macrophage accumulation and synovial inflammation. Accordingly, we successfully constructed apoptotic body-inspired phosphatidylserine-containing nanoliposomes (PSLs) loaded with the BRD4 inhibitor JQ1 to regulate inflammatory macrophages. JQ1-loaded PSLs (JQ1@PSLs) exhibited a higher cellular uptake by macrophages than fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) in vitro and in vivo, as well as the reduction in proinflammatory M1 macrophage polarization. Intra-articular injections of JQ1@PSLs showed prolonged retention within the joint, and remarkably reduced synovial inflammation and joint pain via suppressing M1 polarization accompanied by reduced TRPA1 expression by targeted inhibition of BRD4 in the macrophages, thus attenuating cartilage degradation during OA development. The results show that BRD4-inhibiting JQ1@PSLs can targeted-modulate macrophage polarization, which opens a new avenue for efficient OA therapy via a "Trojan horse".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Di Xu
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Xiang-Chao Liang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Materials, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Zhi-Peng Li
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Zhao-Sheng Wu
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Shi-Zhen Jia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Materials, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Rui Peng
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Zhen-Yan Li
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Xiao-He Wang
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Fang-Ji Luo
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Jia-Jing Chen
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Wen-Xiang Cheng
- Center for Translational Medicine Research and Development, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Center for Translational Medicine Research and Development, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Zhen-Gang Zha
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China.
| | - Rong Zeng
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Materials, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China.
| | - Huan-Tian Zhang
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Xie H, Zhang C. Potential of the nanoplatform and PROTAC interface to achieve targeted protein degradation through the Ubiquitin-Proteasome system. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 267:116168. [PMID: 38310686 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
In eukaryotic cells, the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) plays a crucial role in selectively breaking down specific proteins. The ability of the UPS to target proteins effectively and expedite their removal has significantly contributed to the evolution of UPS-based targeted protein degradation (TPD) strategies. In particular, proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are an immensely promising tool due to their high efficiency, extensive target range, and negligible drug resistance. This breakthrough has overcome the limitations posed by traditionally "non-druggable" proteins. However, their high molecular weight and constrained solubility impede the delivery of PROTACs. Fortunately, the field of nanomedicine has experienced significant growth, enabling the delivery of PROTACs through nanoscale drug-delivery systems, which effectively improves the stability, solubility, drug distribution, tissue-specific accumulation, and stimulus-responsive release of PROTACs. This article reviews the mechanism of action attributed to PROTACs and their potential implications for clinical applications. Moreover, we present strategies involving nanoplatforms for the effective delivery of PROTACs and evaluate recent advances in targeting nanoplatforms to the UPS. Ultimately, an assessment is conducted to determine the feasibility of utilizing PROTACs and nanoplatforms for UPS-based TPD. The primary aim of this review is to provide innovative, reliable solutions to overcome the current challenges obstructing the effective use of PROTACs in the management of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Therefore, this is a promising technology for improving the treatment status of major diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanshu Xie
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhong J, Zhao R, Wang Y, Su YX, Lan X. Nano-PROTACs: state of the art and perspectives. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:4378-4391. [PMID: 38305466 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr06059d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs), as a recently identified technique in the field of new drug development, provide new concepts for disease treatment and are expected to revolutionize drug discovery. With high specificity and flexibility, PROTACs serve as an innovative research tool to target and degrade disease-relevant proteins that are not currently pharmaceutically vulnerable to eliminating their functions by hijacking the ubiquitin-proteasome system. To date, PROTACs still face the challenges of low solubility, poor permeability, off-target effects, and metabolic instability. The combination of nanotechnology and PROTACs has been explored to enhance the in vivo performance of PROTACs regarding overcoming these challenging hurdles. In this review, we summarize the latest advancements in the building-block design of PROTAC prodrug nanoparticles and provide an overview of existing/potential delivery systems and loading approaches for PROTAC drugs. Furthermore, we discuss the current status and prospects of the split-and-mix approach for PROTAC drug optimization. Additionally, the advantages and translational potentials of carrier-free nano-PROTACs and their combinational therapeutic effects are highlighted. This review aims to foster a deeper understanding of this rapidly evolving field and facilitate the progress of nano-PROTACs that will continue to push the boundaries of achieving selectivity and controlled release of PROTAC drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhong
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education of China, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
- Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
| | - Ruiqi Zhao
- Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
| | - Yuji Wang
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education of China, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
| | - Yu-Xiong Su
- Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
| | - Xinmiao Lan
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education of China, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tang L, Fu C, Liu H, Yin Y, Cao Y, Feng J, Zhang A, Wang W. Chemoimmunotherapeutic Nanogel for Pre- and Postsurgical Treatment of Malignant Melanoma by Reprogramming Tumor-Associated Macrophages. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:1717-1728. [PMID: 38270376 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c04563] [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: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Surgery is the primary method to treat malignant melanoma; however, the residual microtumors that cannot be resected completely often trigger tumor recurrence, causing tumor-related mortality following melanoma resection. Herein, we developed a feasible strategy based on the combinational chemoimmunotherapy by cross-linking carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS)-originated polymetformin (PolyMetCMCS) with cystamine to prepare stimuli-responsive nanogel (PMNG) owing to the disulfide bond in cystamine that can be cleaved by the massive glutathione (GSH) in tumor sites. Then, chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded in PMNG, which was followed by a hyaluronic acid coating to improve the overall biocompatibility and targeting ability of the prepared nanogel (D@HPMNG). Notably, PMNG effectively reshaped the tumor immune microenvironment by reprogramming tumor-associated macrophage phenotypes and recruiting intratumoral CD8+ T cells owing to the inherited immunomodulatory capability of metformin. Consequently, D@HPMNG treatment remarkably suppressed melanoma growth and inhibited its recurrence after surgical resection, proposing a promising solution for overcoming lethal melanoma recurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Cosmetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Cong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Cosmetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Hening Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Cosmetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Yue Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Cosmetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Yuqi Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Cosmetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Jingwen Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Cosmetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Aining Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Cosmetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Cosmetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li Y, Guo Y, Zhang K, Zhu R, Chen X, Zhang Z, Yang W. Cell Death Pathway Regulation by Functional Nanomedicines for Robust Antitumor Immunity. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306580. [PMID: 37984863 PMCID: PMC10797449 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has become a mainstream cancer treatment over traditional therapeutic modes. Cancer cells can undergo programmed cell death including ferroptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, apoptosis and cuproptosis which are find to have intrinsic relationships with host antitumor immune response. However, direct use of cell death inducers or regulators may bring about severe side effects that can also be rapidly excreted and degraded with low therapeutic efficacy. Nanomaterials are able to carry them for long circulation time, high tumor accumulation and controlled release to achieve satisfactory therapeutic effect. Nowadays, a large number of studies have focused on nanomedicines-based strategies through modulating cell death modalities to potentiate antitumor immunity. Herein, immune cell types and their function are first summarized, and state-of-the-art research progresses in nanomedicines mediated cell death pathways (e.g., ferroptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, apoptosis and cuproptosis) with immune response provocation are highlighted. Subsequently, the conclusion and outlook of potential research focus are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongjuan Li
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesHenan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical DiseasesZhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouHenan450001China
- Medical Research CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouHenan450001China
- The center of Infection and ImmunityAcademy of Medical SciencesZhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouHenan450001China
| | - Yichen Guo
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesHenan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical DiseasesZhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouHenan450001China
| | - Kaixin Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesHenan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical DiseasesZhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouHenan450001China
| | - Rongrong Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesHenan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical DiseasesZhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouHenan450001China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, SurgeryChemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical EngineeringYong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of EngineeringNational University of SingaporeSingapore119074Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research CentreCentre for Translational MedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117599Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research ProgramNUS Center for NanomedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117597Singapore
| | - Zhenzhong Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesHenan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical DiseasesZhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouHenan450001China
| | - Weijing Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesHenan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical DiseasesZhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouHenan450001China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li Y, Yan B, He S. Advances and challenges in the treatment of lung cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 169:115891. [PMID: 37979378 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer accounts for a relatively high proportion of malignant tumors. As the most prevalent type of lung cancer, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is characterized by high morbidity and mortality. Presently, the arsenal of treatment strategies encompasses surgical resection, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and radiotherapy. However, despite these options, the prognosis remains distressingly poor with a low 5-year survival rate. Therefore, it is urgent to pursue a paradigm shift in treatment methodologies. In recent years, the advent of sophisticated biotechnologies and interdisciplinary integration has provided innovative approaches for the treatment of lung cancer. This article reviews the cutting-edge developments in the nano drug delivery system, molecular targeted treatment system, photothermal treatment strategy, and immunotherapy for lung cancer. Overall, by systematically summarizing and critically analyzing the latest progress and current challenges in these treatment strategies of lung cancer, we aim to provide a theoretical basis for the development of novel drugs for lung cancer treatment, and thus improve the therapeutic outcomes for lung cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Li
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingshuo Yan
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiming He
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lin Y, Guan X, Su J, Chen S, Fu X, Xu X, Deng X, Chang J, Qin A, Shen A, Zhang L. Cell Membrane-Camouflaged Nanoparticles Mediated Nucleic Acids Delivery. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:8001-8021. [PMID: 38164266 PMCID: PMC10758188 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s433737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acids have emerged as promising therapeutic agents for many diseases because of their potential in modulating gene expression. However, the delivery of nucleic acids remains a significant challenge in gene therapy. Although viral vectors have shown high transfection efficiency, concerns regarding teratogenicity or carcinogenicity have been raised. Non-viral vehicles, including cationic polymers, liposomes, and inorganic materials possess advantages in terms of safety, ease of preparation, and low cost. Nevertheless, they also face limitations related to immunogenicity, quick clearance in vivo, and lack of targeting specificity. On the other hand, bioinspired strategies have shown increasing potential in the field of drug delivery, yet there is a lack of comprehensive reviews summarizing the rapid development of bioinspired nanoparticles based on the cell membrane camouflage to construct the nucleic acids vehicles. Herein, we enumerated the current difficulties in nucleic acid delivery with various non-viral vehicles and provided an overview of bioinspired strategies for nucleic acid delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinshan Lin
- Pharmacy Department & Panyu Institute of Infectious Diseases, Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511400, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511436, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoling Guan
- Pharmacy Department & Panyu Institute of Infectious Diseases, Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511400, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511436, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianfen Su
- Pharmacy Department & Panyu Institute of Infectious Diseases, Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511400, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511436, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sheng Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511436, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xihua Fu
- Pharmacy Department & Panyu Institute of Infectious Diseases, Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511400, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaowei Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511436, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511436, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jishuo Chang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511436, People’s Republic of China
| | - Aiping Qin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511436, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ao Shen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511436, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingmin Zhang
- Pharmacy Department & Panyu Institute of Infectious Diseases, Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511400, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511436, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Liu R, Liu Z, Chen M, Xing H, Zhang P, Zhang J. Cooperatively designed aptamer-PROTACs for spatioselective degradation of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling protein for enhanced combinational therapy. Chem Sci 2023; 15:134-145. [PMID: 38131089 PMCID: PMC10732009 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc04249a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleocytoplasmic shuttling proteins (NSPs) have emerged as a promising class of therapeutic targets for many diseases. However, most NSPs-based therapies largely rely on small-molecule inhibitors with limited efficacy and off-target effects. Inspired by proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology, we report a new archetype of PROTAC (PS-ApTCs) by introducing a phosphorothioate-modified aptamer to a CRBN ligand, realizing tumor-targeting and spatioselective degradation of NSPs with improved efficacy. Using nucleolin as a model, we demonstrate that PS-ApTCs is capable of effectively degrading nucleolin in the target cell membrane and cytoplasm but not in the nucleus, through the disruption of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling. Moreover, PS-ApTCs exhibits superior antiproliferation, pro-apoptotic, and cell cycle arrest potencies. Importantly, we demonstrate that a combination of PS-ApTCs-mediated nucleolin degradation with aptamer-drug conjugate-based chemotherapy enables a synergistic effect on tumor inhibition. Collectively, PS-ApTCs could expand the PROTAC toolbox to more targets in subcellular localization and accelerate the discovery of new combinational therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
| | - Zheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
| | - Mohan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
| | - Hang Xing
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University Changsha 410082 China
| | - Penghui Zhang
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, The Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Aptamers and Theranostics, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Hangzhou 310022 China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yao R, Luo T, Wang M. Delivering on Cell-Selective Protein Degradation Using Chemically Tailored PROTACs. Chembiochem 2023; 24:e202300413. [PMID: 37496112 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300413] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
PROTACs (Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras) have emerged as a groundbreaking class of chemical tools that facilitate the degradation of target proteins by leveraging the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). However, the effective utilization of PROTACs in chemical biology studies and therapeutics encounters significant challenges when it comes to achieving cell-selective protein degradation and in vivo applications. This review article aims to shed light on recent advancements in the development of Pro-PROTACs, which exhibit controlled protein degradation capabilities in response to external stimuli or disease-related endogenous biochemical signals. The article delves into the specific chemical strategies employed to regulate the interaction between PROTACs and E3 ubiquitin ligases or target proteins. These strategies enable spatial and temporal control over the protein degradation potential of Pro-PROTACs. Furthermore, the review summarizes recent investigations regarding the delivery of PROTACs using biodegradable nanoparticles for in vivo applications and targeted protein degradation. Such delivery systems hold great promise for enabling efficient and selective protein degradation in vivo. Lastly, the article provides a perspective on the future design of multifunctional PROTACs and their intracellular delivery mechanisms, with a particular focus on achieving cell-selective protein degradation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Yao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100490, China
| | - Tianli Luo
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100490, China
| | - Ming Wang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100490, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Huang JH, Huang CJ, Yu LN, Guan XL, Liang SW, Li JH, Liang L, Wei MY, Zhang LM. Bioinspired PROTAC-induced macrophage fate determination alleviates atherosclerosis. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:1962-1976. [PMID: 37169852 PMCID: PMC10545710 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01088-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a major cause of death and disability in cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerosis associated with lipid accumulation and chronic inflammation leads to plaques formation in arterial walls and luminal stenosis in carotid arteries. Current approaches such as surgery or treatment with statins encounter big challenges in curing atherosclerosis plaque. The infiltration of proinflammatory M1 macrophages plays an essential role in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis plaque. A recent study shows that TRIM24, an E3 ubiquitin ligase of a Trim family protein, acts as a valve to inhibit the polarization of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages, and elimination of TRIM24 opens an avenue to achieve the M2 polarization. Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology has emerged as a novel tool for the selective degradation of targeting proteins. But the low bioavailability and cell specificity of PROTAC reagents hinder their applications in treating atherosclerosis plaque. In this study we constructed a type of bioinspired PROTAC by coating the PROTAC degrader (dTRIM24)-loaded PLGA nanoparticles with M2 macrophage membrane (MELT) for atherosclerosis treatment. MELT was characterized by morphology, size, and stability. MELT displayed enhanced specificity to M1 macrophages as well as acidic-responsive release of dTRIM24. After intravenous administration, MELT showed significantly improved accumulation in atherosclerotic plaque of high fat and high cholesterol diet-fed atherosclerotic (ApoE-/-) mice through binding to M1 macrophages and inducing effective and precise TRIM24 degradation, thus resulting in the polarization of M2 macrophages, which led to great reduction of plaque formation. These results suggest that MELT can be considered a potential therapeutic agent for targeting atherosclerotic plaque and alleviating atherosclerosis progression, providing an effective strategy for targeted atherosclerosis therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiong-Hua Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Chuang-Jia Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Li-Na Yu
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Oral Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510013, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Guan
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Shang-Wen Liang
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, 511518, China
| | - Jian-Hong Li
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, 511518, China
| | - Lu Liang
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
| | - Min-Yan Wei
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
| | - Ling-Min Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, 511518, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chuan H, Li B, Wang Z, Li J, Xie P, Liu Y. Visualization Tools for Detecting Microcystin-LR in the Biological System via Near-Infrared Fluorescent Probes. Anal Chem 2023; 95:14219-14227. [PMID: 37703515 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c01992] [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: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Numerous toxicological and epidemiological studies have shown that microcystin-LR (MC-LR) could cause a variety of toxicity to humans and animals. However, the absence of effective methods to trace MC-LR in biological systems has hindered the in-depth understanding of the mechanism of MC-LR toxicity. Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probes are crucial tools for accurate visualization and in-depth study of specific molecules in biological systems. Due to the lack of effective design strategies, NIR fluorescent probes for imaging MC-LR specifically in biological systems have not been reported yet. In order to address this pressing issue, herein, we have introduced a new and facile strategy to improve MC-LR detection and imaging in biological systems, and based on this design strategy, three NIR fluorescence probes (MC-RdTPA1, MC-RdTPA2, and MC-RdTPE1) have been constructed. These probes have several advantages: (i) have long emission wavelength and large Stokes shifts, which have great potential in vivo imaging applications; (ii) could selectively visualize MC-LR in cells; and (iii) showed stable fluorescence intensity in the pH range of 5.0-7.0. This work may provide a new avenue for the detection of MC-LR in biological systems and new tool to advance our knowledge of the mechanism of MC-LR toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huiyan Chuan
- Institute for Ecological Research and Pollution Control of Plateau Lakes, School of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, P. R. China
| | - Bingyan Li
- Institute for Ecological Research and Pollution Control of Plateau Lakes, School of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, P. R. China
| | - Zhaomin Wang
- Institute for Ecological Research and Pollution Control of Plateau Lakes, School of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, P. R. China
| | - Jing Li
- Yunnan International Joint R&D Center of Smart Agriculture and Water Security; School of Water Conservancy, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, P. R. China
| | - Ping Xie
- Institute for Ecological Research and Pollution Control of Plateau Lakes, School of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, P. R. China
- Donghu Experimental Station of Lake Ecosystems, State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, PR China
| | - Yong Liu
- Institute for Ecological Research and Pollution Control of Plateau Lakes, School of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lin JY, Liu HJ, Wu Y, Jin JM, Zhou YD, Zhang H, Nagle DG, Chen HZ, Zhang WD, Luan X. Targeted Protein Degradation Technology and Nanomedicine: Powerful Allies against Cancer. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2207778. [PMID: 36693784 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) is an emerging therapeutic strategy with the potential of targeting undruggable pathogenic proteins. After the first proof-of-concept proteolysis-targeting chimeric (PROTAC) molecule was reported, the TPD field has entered a new era. In addition to PROTAC, numerous novel TPD strategies have emerged to expand the degradation landscape. However, their physicochemical properties and uncontrolled off-target side effects have limited their therapeutic efficacy, raising concerns regarding TPD delivery system. The combination of TPD and nanotechnology offers great promise in improving safety and therapeutic efficacy. This review provides an overview of novel TPD technologies, discusses their clinical applications, and highlights the trends and perspectives in TPD nanomedicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Yi Lin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hai-Jun Liu
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ye Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jin-Mei Jin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yu-Dong Zhou
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Liberal Arts, University of Mississippi, University-1848, Boston, MA, 38677, USA
| | - Hong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Dale G Nagle
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University-1848, Boston, MA, 38677, USA
| | - Hong-Zhuan Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Wei-Dong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yang YC, Zhao CJ, Jin ZF, Zheng J, Ma LT. Targeted therapy based on ubiquitin-specific proteases, signalling pathways and E3 ligases in non-small-cell lung cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1120828. [PMID: 36969062 PMCID: PMC10036052 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1120828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumours worldwide, with the highest mortality rate. Approximately 1.6 million deaths owing to lung cancer are reported annually; of which, 85% of deaths occur owing to non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). At present, the conventional treatment methods for NSCLC include radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and surgery. However, drug resistance and tumour invasion or metastasis often lead to treatment failure. The ubiquitin–proteasome pathway (UPP) plays an important role in the occurrence and development of tumours. Upregulation or inhibition of proteins or enzymes involved in UPP can promote or inhibit the occurrence and development of tumours, respectively. As regulators of UPP, ubiquitin-specific proteases (USPs) primarily inhibit the degradation of target proteins by proteasomes through deubiquitination and hence play a carcinogenic or anticancer role. This review focuses on the role of USPs in the occurrence and development of NSCLC and the potential of corresponding targeted drugs, PROTACs and small-molecule inhibitors in the treatment of NSCLC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chen Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Can-Jun Zhao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhao-Feng Jin
- School of Psychology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jin Zheng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Li-Tian Ma, ; Jin Zheng,
| | - Li-Tian Ma
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Li-Tian Ma, ; Jin Zheng,
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Zhang M, Li Y, Zhang Z, Zhang X, Wang W, Song X, Zhang D. BRD4 Protein as a Target for Lung Cancer and Hematological Cancer Therapy: A Review. Curr Drug Targets 2023; 24:1079-1092. [PMID: 37846578 DOI: 10.2174/0113894501269090231012090351] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
The BET protein family plays a crucial role in regulating the epigenetic landscape of the genome. Their role in regulating tumor-related gene expression and its impact on the survival of tumor cells is widely acknowledged. Among the BET family constituents, BRD4 is a significant protein. It is a bromodomain-containing protein located at the outer terminal that recognizes histones that have undergone acetylation. It is present in the promoter or enhancer region of the target gene and is responsible for initiating and sustaining the expression of genes associated with tumorigenesis. BRD4 expression is significantly elevated in various tumor types. Research has indicated that BRD4 plays a significant role in regulating various transcription factors and chromatin modification, as well as in repairing DNA damage and preserving telomere function, ultimately contributing to the survival of cancerous cells. The protein BRD4 has a significant impact on antitumor therapy, particularly in the management of lung cancer and hematological malignancies, and the promising potential of BRD4 inhibitors in the realm of cancer prevention and treatment is a topic of great interest. Therefore, BRD4 is considered a promising candidate for prophylaxis and therapy of neoplastic diseases. However, further research is required to fully comprehend the significance and indispensability of BRD4 in cancer and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Zhang
- College of Humanities and Management, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Yingbo Li
- College of Humanities and Management, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Zilong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Xiaomei Song
- School of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Dongdong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|