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Falanga A, Bellavita R, Braccia S, Galdiero S. Hydrophobicity: The door to drug delivery. J Pept Sci 2024; 30:e3558. [PMID: 38115215 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
The engineering of intracellular delivery systems with the goal of achieving personalized medicine has been encouraged by advances in nanomaterial science as well as a greater understanding of diseases and of the biochemical pathways implicated in many disorders. The development of vectors able to transport the drug to a target location and release it only on demand is undoubtedly the primary issue. From a molecular perspective, the topography of drug carrier surfaces is directly related to the design of an effective drug carrier because it provides a physical hint to modifying its interactions with biological systems. For instance, the initial ratio of hydrophilic to hydrophobic surfaces and the changes brought about by external factors enable the release or encapsulation of a therapeutic molecule and the ability of the nanosystem to cross biological barriers and reach its target without causing systemic toxicity. The first step in creating new materials with enhanced functionality is to comprehend and characterize the interplay between hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules at the molecular level. Therefore, the focus of this review is on the function of hydrophobicity, which is essential for matching the complexity of biological environments with the intended functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarita Falanga
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- CiRPEB, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides "Carlo Pedone", University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Simone Braccia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Galdiero
- CiRPEB, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides "Carlo Pedone", University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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2
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Zhou Q, Greene LA. Dpep Inhibits Cancer Cell Growth and Survival via Shared and Context-Dependent Transcriptome Perturbations. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5318. [PMID: 38001578 PMCID: PMC10669862 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dpep is a cell-penetrating peptide targeting transcription factors ATF5, CEBPB, and CEBPD, and that selectively promotes the apoptotic death of multiple tumor cell types in vitro and in vivo. As such, it is a potential therapeutic. To better understand its mechanism of action, we used PLATE-seq to compare the transcriptomes of six cancer cell lines of diverse origins before and after Dpep exposure. This revealed a context-dependent pattern of regulated genes that was unique to each line, but that exhibited a number of elements that were shared with other lines. This included the upregulation of pro-apoptotic genes and tumor suppressors as well as the enrichment of genes associated with responses to hypoxia and interferons. Downregulated transcripts included oncogenes and dependency genes, as well as enriched genes associated with different phases of the cell cycle and with DNA repair. In each case, such changes have the potential to lie upstream of apoptotic cell death. We also detected the regulation of unique as well as shared sets of transcription factors in each line, suggesting that Dpep may initiate a cascade of transcriptional responses that culminate in cancer cell death. Such death thus appears to reflect context-dependent, yet shared, disruption of multiple cellular pathways as well as of individual survival-relevant genes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lloyd A. Greene
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY 10032, USA;
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3
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Feng X, Chang R, Zhu H, Yang Y, Ji Y, Liu D, Qin H, Yin J, Rong H. Engineering Proteins for Cell Entry. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:4868-4882. [PMID: 37708383 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Proteins are essential for life, as they participate in all vital processes in the body. In the past decade, delivery of active proteins to specific cells and organs has attracted increasing interest. However, most proteins cannot enter the cytoplasm due to the cell membrane acting as a natural barrier. To overcome this challenge, various proteins have been engineered to acquire cell-penetrating capacity by mimicking or modifying natural shuttling proteins. In this review, we provide an overview of the different types of engineered cell-penetrating proteins such as cell-penetrating peptides, supercharged proteins, receptor-binding proteins, and bacterial toxins. We also discuss some strategies for improving endosomal escape such as pore formation, the proton sponge effect, and hijacking intracellular trafficking pathways. Finally, we introduce some novel methods and technologies for designing and detecting engineered cell-penetrating proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Feng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ruilong Chang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haichao Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yifan Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dingkang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hai Qin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital Guizhou Hospital, No. 206, Sixian Street, Baiyun District, Guiyang, Guizhou 550014, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haibo Rong
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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4
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Bao Y, Lu W. Targeting cerebral diseases with enhanced delivery of therapeutic proteins across the blood-brain barrier. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:1681-1698. [PMID: 36945117 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2193390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cerebral diseases have been threatening public physical and psychological health in the recent years. With the existence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), it is particularly hard for therapeutic proteins like peptides, enzymes, antibodies, etc. to enter the central nervous system (CNS) and function in diagnosis and treatment in cerebral diseases. Fortunately, the past decade has witnessed some emerging strategies of delivering macromolecular therapeutic proteins across the BBB. AREAS COVERED Based on the structure, functions, and substances transport mechanisms, various enhanced delivery strategies of therapeutic proteins were reviewed, categorized by molecule-mediated delivery strategies, carrier-mediated delivery strategies, and other delivery strategies. EXPERT OPINION As for molecule-mediated delivery strategies, development of genetic engineering technology, optimization of protein expression and purification techniques, and mature of quality control systems all help to realize large-scale production of recombinant antibodies, making it possible to apply to the clinical practice. In terms of carrier-mediated delivery strategies and others, although nano-carriers/adeno-associated virus (AAV) are also promising candidates for delivering therapeutic proteins or genes across the BBB, some issues still remain to be further investigated, including safety concerns related to applied materials, large-scale production costs, quality control standards, combination therapies with auxiliary delivery strategies like focused ultrasound, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanning Bao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiyue Lu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery (Fudan University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Technology Research Center for Pharmaceutical Intelligent Equipment, and Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Druggability of Cardiovascular non-coding RNA, Institute for Frontier Medical Technology, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai, China
- Department of Research and Development, Shanghai Tayzen PharmLab Co., Ltd. Lingang of Shanghai, China
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5
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Cardon S, Hervis YP, Bolbach G, Lopin-Bon C, Jacquinet JC, Illien F, Walrant A, Ravault D, He B, Molina L, Burlina F, Lequin O, Joliot A, Carlier L, Sagan S. A cationic motif upstream Engrailed2 homeodomain controls cell internalization through selective interaction with heparan sulfates. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1998. [PMID: 37032404 PMCID: PMC10083169 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37757-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Engrailed2 (En2) is a transcription factor that transfers from cell to cell through unconventional pathways. The poorly understood internalization mechanism of this cationic protein is proposed to require an initial interaction with cell-surface glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). To decipher the role of GAGs in En2 internalization, we have quantified the entry of its homeodomain region in model cells that differ in their content in cell-surface GAGs. The binding specificity to GAGs and the influence of this interaction on the structure and dynamics of En2 was also investigated at the amino acid level. Our results show that a high-affinity GAG-binding sequence (RKPKKKNPNKEDKRPR), upstream of the homeodomain, controls En2 internalization through selective interactions with highly-sulfated heparan sulfate GAGs. Our data underline the functional importance of the intrinsically disordered basic region upstream of En2 internalization domain, and demonstrate the critical role of GAGs as an entry gate, finely tuning homeoprotein capacity to internalize into cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Cardon
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France
| | - Yadira P Hervis
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France
| | - Gérard Bolbach
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Mass Spectrometry Sciences Sorbonne University, MS3U platform, 75005, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Françoise Illien
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France
| | - Astrid Walrant
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France
| | - Delphine Ravault
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France
| | - Bingwei He
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France
| | - Laura Molina
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France
| | - Fabienne Burlina
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Lequin
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France
| | - Alain Joliot
- INSERM U932, Institut Curie Centre de Recherche, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Ludovic Carlier
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France.
| | - Sandrine Sagan
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM), 75005, Paris, France.
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6
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Targeting Transcription Factors ATF5, CEBPB and CEBPD with Cell-Penetrating Peptides to Treat Brain and Other Cancers. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040581. [PMID: 36831248 PMCID: PMC9954556 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040581] [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: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing novel therapeutics often follows three steps: target identification, design of strategies to suppress target activity and drug development to implement the strategies. In this review, we recount the evidence identifying the basic leucine zipper transcription factors ATF5, CEBPB, and CEBPD as targets for brain and other malignancies. We describe strategies that exploit the structures of the three factors to create inhibitory dominant-negative (DN) mutant forms that selectively suppress growth and survival of cancer cells. We then discuss and compare four peptides (CP-DN-ATF5, Dpep, Bpep and ST101) in which DN sequences are joined with cell-penetrating domains to create drugs that pass through tissue barriers and into cells. The peptide drugs show both efficacy and safety in suppressing growth and in the survival of brain and other cancers in vivo, and ST101 is currently in clinical trials for solid tumors, including GBM. We further consider known mechanisms by which the peptides act and how these have been exploited in rationally designed combination therapies. We additionally discuss lacunae in our knowledge about the peptides that merit further research. Finally, we suggest both short- and long-term directions for creating new generations of drugs targeting ATF5, CEBPB, CEBPD, and other transcription factors for treating brain and other malignancies.
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7
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Lundquist P, Khodus G, Niu Z, Thwala LN, McCartney F, Simoff I, Andersson E, Beloqui A, Mabondzo A, Robla S, Webb DL, Hellström PM, Keita ÅV, Sima E, Csaba N, Sundbom M, Preat V, Brayden DJ, Alonso MJ, Artursson P. Barriers to the Intestinal Absorption of Four Insulin-Loaded Arginine-Rich Nanoparticles in Human and Rat. ACS NANO 2022; 16:14210-14229. [PMID: 35998570 PMCID: PMC9527806 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c04330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Peptide drugs and biologics provide opportunities for treatments of many diseases. However, due to their poor stability and permeability in the gastrointestinal tract, the oral bioavailability of peptide drugs is negligible. Nanoparticle formulations have been proposed to circumvent these hurdles, but systemic exposure of orally administered peptide drugs has remained elusive. In this study, we investigated the absorption mechanisms of four insulin-loaded arginine-rich nanoparticles displaying differing composition and surface characteristics, developed within the pan-European consortium TRANS-INT. The transport mechanisms and major barriers to nanoparticle permeability were investigated in freshly isolated human jejunal tissue. Cytokine release profiles and standard toxicity markers indicated that the nanoparticles were nontoxic. Three out of four nanoparticles displayed pronounced binding to the mucus layer and did not reach the epithelium. One nanoparticle composed of a mucus inert shell and cell-penetrating octarginine (ENCP), showed significant uptake by the intestinal epithelium corresponding to 28 ± 9% of the administered nanoparticle dose, as determined by super-resolution microscopy. Only a small fraction of nanoparticles taken up by epithelia went on to be transcytosed via a dynamin-dependent process. In situ studies in intact rat jejunal loops confirmed the results from human tissue regarding mucus binding, epithelial uptake, and negligible insulin bioavailability. In conclusion, while none of the four arginine-rich nanoparticles supported systemic insulin delivery, ENCP displayed a consistently high uptake along the intestinal villi. It is proposed that ENCP should be further investigated for local delivery of therapeutics to the intestinal mucosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrik Lundquist
- Department
of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, SE-751 43 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Georgiy Khodus
- Department
of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, SE-751 43 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Zhigao Niu
- Department
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, CIMUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela ES 15782, Spain
| | - Lungile Nomcebo Thwala
- Department
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, CIMUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela ES 15782, Spain
- Université
catholique de Louvain, UCLouvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute,
Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, BE 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fiona McCartney
- UCD
School of Veterinary Medicine, University
College Dublin, Belfield D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Ivailo Simoff
- Department
of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, SE-751 43 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ellen Andersson
- Department
of Surgery in Norrköping, Linköping
University, SE-581 83 Norrköping, Sweden
- Department
of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping
University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Ana Beloqui
- Université
catholique de Louvain, UCLouvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute,
Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, BE 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Aloise Mabondzo
- CEA,
Institute of Biology and Technology of Saclay, Department of Pharmacology
and Immunoanalysis, Gif sur Yvette FR 91191, France
| | - Sandra Robla
- Department
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, CIMUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela ES 15782, Spain
| | - Dominic-Luc Webb
- Department
of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per M. Hellström
- Department
of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Åsa V Keita
- Department
of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping
University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Eduardo Sima
- Department
of Surgical Sciences−Upper Abdominal Surgery, Uppsala University, SE-751
85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Noemi Csaba
- Department
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, CIMUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela ES 15782, Spain
| | - Magnus Sundbom
- Department
of Surgical Sciences−Upper Abdominal Surgery, Uppsala University, SE-751
85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Veronique Preat
- Université
catholique de Louvain, UCLouvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute,
Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, BE 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - David J. Brayden
- UCD
School of Veterinary Medicine, University
College Dublin, Belfield D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Maria Jose Alonso
- Department
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, CIMUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela ES 15782, Spain
| | - Per Artursson
- Department
of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, SE-751 43 Uppsala, Sweden
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8
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Juretić D. Designed Multifunctional Peptides for Intracellular Targets. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11091196. [PMID: 36139975 PMCID: PMC9495127 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11091196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Nature’s way for bioactive peptides is to provide them with several related functions and the ability to cooperate in performing their job. Natural cell-penetrating peptides (CPP), such as penetratins, inspired the design of multifunctional constructs with CPP ability. This review focuses on known and novel peptides that can easily reach intracellular targets with little or no toxicity to mammalian cells. All peptide candidates were evaluated and ranked according to the predictions of low toxicity to mammalian cells and broad-spectrum activity. The final set of the 20 best peptide candidates contains the peptides optimized for cell-penetrating, antimicrobial, anticancer, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activity. Their predicted features are intrinsic disorder and the ability to acquire an amphipathic structure upon contact with membranes or nucleic acids. In conclusion, the review argues for exploring wide-spectrum multifunctionality for novel nontoxic hybrids with cell-penetrating peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davor Juretić
- Mediterranean Institute for Life Sciences, 21000 Split, Croatia;
- Faculty of Science, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
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9
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10
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Borrajo ML, Alonso MJ. Using nanotechnology to deliver biomolecules from nose to brain - peptides, proteins, monoclonal antibodies and RNA. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2022; 12:862-880. [PMID: 34731414 PMCID: PMC8888512 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-021-01086-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing number of biomolecules, including peptides, proteins, monoclonal antibodies and RNA, that could be potentially used for the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) diseases. However, the realization of their potential is being hampered by the extraordinary difficulties these complex biomolecules have to reach the brain in therapeutically meaningful amounts. Nose-to-brain (N-to-B) delivery is now being investigated as a potential option for the direct transport of biomolecules from the nasal cavity to different brain areas. Here, we discuss how different technological approaches enhance this N-to-B transport, with emphasis on those that have shown a potential for clinical translation. We also analyse how the physicochemical properties of nanocarriers and their modification with cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) and targeting ligands affect their efficacy as N-to-B carriers for biomolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireya L Borrajo
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Av. Barcelona s/n, Campus Vida, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - María José Alonso
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Av. Barcelona s/n, Campus Vida, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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11
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Far-UV circular dichroism signatures indicate fluorophore labeling induced conformational changes of penetratin. Amino Acids 2022; 54:1109-1113. [PMID: 35301594 PMCID: PMC9217886 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-022-03149-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Fluorescent labeling is a broadly utilized approach to assess in vitro and in vivo behavior of biologically active, especially cell-penetrating and antimicrobial peptides. In this communication, far-UV circular dichroism (CD) spectra of penetratin (PEN) fluorophore conjugates reported previously have been re-evaluated. Compared to the intrinsically disordered native peptide, rhodamine B and carboxyfluorescein derivatives of free and membrane-bound PEN exhibit extrinsic CD features. Potential sources of these signals displayed above 220 nm are discussed suggesting the contributions of both intra- and intermolecular chiral exciton coupling mechanisms. Careful evaluation of the CD spectra of fluorophore-labeled peptides is a valuable tool for early detection of labeling-provoked structural alterations which in turn may modify the membrane binding and cellular uptake compared to the unconjugated form.
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12
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Wichmann N, Lund PM, Hansen MB, Hjørringgaard CU, Larsen JB, Kristensen K, Andresen TL, Simonsen JB. Applying flow cytometry to identify the modes of action of membrane-active peptides in a label-free and high-throughput fashion. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2022; 1864:183820. [PMID: 34813768 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2021.183820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Membrane-active peptides (MAPs) have several potential therapeutic uses, including as antimicrobial drugs. Many traditional methods used to evaluate the membrane interactions of MAPs have limited applicability. Low-throughput methods, such as microscopy, provide detailed information but often rely on fluorophore-labeled MAPs, and high-throughput assays, such as the calcein release assay, cannot assess the mechanism behind the disruption of vesicular-based lipid membranes. Here we present a flow cytometric assay that provides detailed information about the peptide-lipid membrane interactions on single artificial lipid vesicles while being high-throughput (1000-2000 vesicles/s) and based on label-free MAPs. We synthesized and investigated six MAPs with different modes of action to evaluate the versatility of the assay. The assay is based on the flow cytometric readouts from artificial lipid vesicles, including the fluorescence from membrane-anchored and core-encapsulated fluorophores, and the vesicle concentration. From these parameters, we were able to distinguish between MAPs that induce vesicle solubilization, permeation (pores/membrane distortion), and aggregation or fusion. Our flow cytometry findings have been verified by traditional methods, including the calcein release assay, dynamic light scattering, and fluorescence microscopy on giant unilamellar vesicles. We envision that the presented flow cytometric assay can be used for various types of peptide-lipid membrane studies, e.g. to identify new antibiotics. Moreover, the assay can easily be expanded to derive additional valuable information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanna Wichmann
- Department of Health Technology, Center for Intestinal Absorption and Transport of Biopharmaceuticals, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Philip M Lund
- Department of Health Technology, Center for Intestinal Absorption and Transport of Biopharmaceuticals, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Morten B Hansen
- Department of Health Technology, Center for Intestinal Absorption and Transport of Biopharmaceuticals, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Claudia U Hjørringgaard
- Department of Health Technology, Center for Intestinal Absorption and Transport of Biopharmaceuticals, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Jannik B Larsen
- Department of Health Technology, Center for Intestinal Absorption and Transport of Biopharmaceuticals, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Kasper Kristensen
- Department of Health Technology, Center for Intestinal Absorption and Transport of Biopharmaceuticals, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Thomas L Andresen
- Department of Health Technology, Center for Intestinal Absorption and Transport of Biopharmaceuticals, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Jens B Simonsen
- Department of Health Technology, Center for Intestinal Absorption and Transport of Biopharmaceuticals, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
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13
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Systematic Screening of Penetratin's Protein Targets by Yeast Proteome Microarrays. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020712. [PMID: 35054898 PMCID: PMC8775591 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have distinct properties to translocate across cell envelope. The key property of CPPs to translocation with attached molecules has been utilized as vehicles for the delivery of several potential drug candidates that illustrate the significant effect in in-vitro experiment but fail in in-vivo experiment due to selectively permeable nature of cell envelop. Penetratin, a well-known CPP identified from the third α-helix of Antennapedia homeodomain of Drosophila, has been widely used and studied for the delivery of bioactive molecules to treat cancers, stroke, and infections caused by pathogenic organisms. Few studies have demonstrated that penetratin directly possesses antimicrobial activities against bacterial and fungal pathogens; however, the mechanism is unknown. In this study, we have utilized the power of high-throughput Saccharomyces cerevisiae proteome microarrays to screen all the potential protein targets of penetratin. Saccharomyces cerevisiae proteome microarrays assays of penetratin followed by statistical analysis depicted 123 Saccharomyces cerevisiae proteins as the protein targets of penetratin out of ~5800 Saccharomyces cerevisiae proteins. To understand the target patterns of penetratin, enrichment analyses were conducted using 123 protein targets. In biological process: ribonucleoprotein complex biogenesis, nucleic acid metabolic process, actin filament-based process, transcription, DNA-templated, and negative regulation of gene expression are a few significantly enriched terms. Cytoplasm, nucleus, and cell-organelles are enriched terms for cellular component. Protein-protein interactions network depicted ribonucleoprotein complex biogenesis, cortical cytoskeleton, and histone binding, which represent the major enriched terms for the 123 protein targets of penetratin. We also compared the protein targets of penetratin and intracellular protein targets of antifungal AMPs (Lfcin B, Histatin-5, and Sub-5). The comparison results showed few unique proteins between penetratin and AMPs. Nucleic acid metabolic process and cellular component disassembly were the common enrichment terms for penetratin and three AMPs. Penetratin shows unique enrichment items that are related to DNA biological process. Moreover, motif enrichment analysis depicted different enriched motifs in the protein targets of penetratin, LfcinB, Histatin-5, and Sub-5.
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14
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Okafor M, Gonzalez P, Ronot P, El Masoudi I, Boos A, Ory S, Chasserot-Golaz S, Gasman S, Raibaut L, Hureau C, Vitale N, Faller P. Development of Cu( ii)-specific peptide shuttles capable of preventing Cu–amyloid beta toxicity and importing bioavailable Cu into cells. Chem Sci 2022; 13:11829-11840. [PMID: 36320914 PMCID: PMC9580518 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc02593k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Copper (Cu) in its ionic forms is an essential element for mammals and its homeostasis is tightly controlled. Accordingly, Cu-dyshomeostasis can be lethal as is the case in the well-established genetic Wilson's and Menkes diseases. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), Cu-accumulation occurs in amyloid plaques, where it is bound to the amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ). In vitro, Cu–Aβ is competent to catalyze the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the presence of ascorbate under aerobic conditions, and hence Cu–Aβ is believed to contribute to the oxidative stress in AD. Several molecules that can recover extracellular Cu from Aβ and transport it back into cells with beneficial effects in cell culture and transgenic AD models were identified. However, all the Cu-shuttles currently available are not satisfactory due to various potential limitations including ion selectivity and toxicity. Hence, we designed a novel peptide-based Cu shuttle with the following properties: (i) it contains a Cu(ii)-binding motif that is very selective to Cu(ii) over all other essential metal ions; (ii) it is tagged with a fluorophore sensitive to Cu(ii)-binding and release; (iii) it is made of a peptide platform, which is very versatile to add new functions. The work presented here reports on the characterization of AKH-αR5W4NBD, which is able to transport Cu ions selectively into PC12 cells and the imported Cu appeared bioavailable, likely via reductive release induced by glutathione. Moreover, AKH-αR5W4NBD was able to withdraw Cu from the Aβ1–16 peptide and consequently inhibited the Cu-Aβ based reactive oxygen species production and related cell toxicity. Hence, AKH-αR5W4NBD could be a valuable new tool for Cu-transport into cells and suitable for mechanistic studies in cell culture, with potential applications in restoring Cu-homeostasis in Cu-related diseases such as AD. The synthetic peptide AKH-αR5W4NBD was designed as a shuttle to counteract copper imbalance in Alzheimer’s disease. In vitro, this shuttle is able to abstract Cu(ii) selectively from amyloid-β and transport it into cells in a bioavailable form.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Okafor
- Laboratory of Biometals and Biological Chemistry, Institut de Chimie (UMR 7177), Université de Strasbourg-CNRS, 4 Rue Blaise Pascal, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Paulina Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Biometals and Biological Chemistry, Institut de Chimie (UMR 7177), Université de Strasbourg-CNRS, 4 Rue Blaise Pascal, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Pascale Ronot
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, IPHC, UMR 7178, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Islah El Masoudi
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, IPHC, UMR 7178, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Anne Boos
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, IPHC, UMR 7178, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Stéphane Ory
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Sylvette Chasserot-Golaz
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Stéphane Gasman
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Laurent Raibaut
- Laboratory of Biometals and Biological Chemistry, Institut de Chimie (UMR 7177), Université de Strasbourg-CNRS, 4 Rue Blaise Pascal, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | | | - Nicolas Vitale
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Peter Faller
- Laboratory of Biometals and Biological Chemistry, Institut de Chimie (UMR 7177), Université de Strasbourg-CNRS, 4 Rue Blaise Pascal, 67000 Strasbourg, France
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15
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Futaki S. Functional Peptides That Target Biomembranes: Design and Modes of Action. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 2021; 69:601-607. [PMID: 34193708 DOI: 10.1248/cpb.c21-00140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Biomembranes are important targets in molecular design. Our laboratory has been exploring the design of functional peptides that modulate membrane barrier function, lipid packing, and structure. Evaluation of the results obtained and analyses of cellular mechanisms have yielded peptides with more refined designs and functions. This review highlights the progress made in our laboratory towards the development of unique peptides that modulate membrane properties.
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16
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Puvvula PK, Yu Y, Sullivan KR, Eyob H, Rosenberg J, Welm A, Huff C, Moon AM. Inhibiting an RBM39/MLL1 epigenomic regulatory complex with dominant-negative peptides disrupts cancer cell transcription and proliferation. Cell Rep 2021; 35:109156. [PMID: 34077726 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
RBM39 is a known splicing factor and coactivator. Here, we report that RBM39 functions as a master transcriptional regulator that interacts with the MLL1 complex to facilitate chromatin binding and H3K4 trimethylation in breast cancer cells. We identify RBM39 functional domains required for DNA and complex binding and show that the loss of RBM39 has widespread effects on H3K4me3 and gene expression, including key oncogenic pathways. RBM39's RNA recognition motif 3 (RRM3) functions as a dominant-negative domain; namely, it disrupts the complex and H3K4me trimethylation and expression of RBM/MLL1 target genes. RRM3-derived cell-penetrating peptides phenocopy the effects of the loss of RBM39 to decrease growth and survival of all major subtypes of breast cancer and yet are nontoxic to normal cells. These findings establish RBM39/MLL1 as a major contributor to the abnormal epigenetic landscape in breast cancer and lay the foundation for peptide-mediated cancer-specific therapy based on disruption of RBM39 epigenomic functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavan Kumar Puvvula
- Department of Molecular and Functional Genomics, Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, PA, USA.
| | - Yao Yu
- Department of Epidemiology, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kaelan Renaldo Sullivan
- Department of Molecular and Functional Genomics, Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, PA, USA
| | - Henok Eyob
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Julian Rosenberg
- Department of Molecular and Functional Genomics, Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, PA, USA
| | - Alana Welm
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Chad Huff
- Department of Epidemiology, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anne M Moon
- Department of Molecular and Functional Genomics, Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, PA, USA; Department Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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17
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Zhou Q, Sun X, Pasquier N, Jefferson P, Nguyen TTT, Siegelin MD, Angelastro JM, Greene LA. Cell-Penetrating CEBPB and CEBPD Leucine Zipper Decoys as Broadly Acting Anti-Cancer Agents. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102504. [PMID: 34065488 PMCID: PMC8161188 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The gene-regulatory factors ATF5, CEBPB and CEBPD promote survival, growth, metastasis and treatment resistance of a range of cancer cell types. Presently, no drugs target all three at once. Here, with the aim of treating cancers, we designed novel cell-penetrating peptides that interact with and inactivate all three. The peptides Bpep and Dpep kill a range of cancer cell types in culture and in animals. In animals with tumors, they also significantly increase survival time. In contrast, they do not affect survival of non-cancer cells and have no apparent side effects in animals. The peptides work in combination with other anti-cancer treatments. Mechanism studies of how the peptides kill cancer cells indicate a decrease in survival proteins and increase in death proteins. These studies support the potential of Bpep and Dpep as novel, safe agents for the treatment of a variety of cancer types, both as mono- and combination therapies. Abstract Transcription factors are key players underlying cancer formation, growth, survival, metastasis and treatment resistance, yet few drugs exist to directly target them. Here, we characterized the in vitro and in vivo anti-cancer efficacy of novel synthetic cell-penetrating peptides (Bpep and Dpep) designed to interfere with the formation of active leucine-zipper-based dimers by CEBPB and CEBPD, transcription factors implicated in multiple malignancies. Both peptides similarly promoted apoptosis of multiple tumor lines of varying origins, without such effects on non-transformed cells. Combined with other treatments (radiation, Taxol, chloroquine, doxorubicin), the peptides acted additively to synergistically and were fully active on Taxol-resistant cells. The peptides suppressed expression of known direct CEBPB/CEBPD targets IL6, IL8 and asparagine synthetase (ASNS), supporting their inhibition of transcriptional activation. Mechanisms by which the peptides trigger apoptosis included depletion of pro-survival survivin and a required elevation of pro-apoptotic BMF. Bpep and Dpep significantly slowed tumor growth in mouse models without evident side effects. Dpep significantly prolonged survival in xenograft models. These findings indicate the efficacy and potential of Bpep and Dpep as novel agents to treat a variety of cancers as mono- or combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhou
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; (Q.Z.); (X.S.); (N.P.); (P.J.); (T.T.T.N.); (M.D.S.)
| | - Xiotian Sun
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; (Q.Z.); (X.S.); (N.P.); (P.J.); (T.T.T.N.); (M.D.S.)
| | - Nicolas Pasquier
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; (Q.Z.); (X.S.); (N.P.); (P.J.); (T.T.T.N.); (M.D.S.)
| | - Parvaneh Jefferson
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; (Q.Z.); (X.S.); (N.P.); (P.J.); (T.T.T.N.); (M.D.S.)
| | - Trang T. T. Nguyen
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; (Q.Z.); (X.S.); (N.P.); (P.J.); (T.T.T.N.); (M.D.S.)
| | - Markus D. Siegelin
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; (Q.Z.); (X.S.); (N.P.); (P.J.); (T.T.T.N.); (M.D.S.)
| | - James M. Angelastro
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Lloyd A. Greene
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; (Q.Z.); (X.S.); (N.P.); (P.J.); (T.T.T.N.); (M.D.S.)
- Correspondence:
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18
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Hawryłkiewicz A, Ptaszyńska N. Gemcitabine Peptide-Based Conjugates and Their Application in Targeted Tumor Therapy. Molecules 2021; 26:E364. [PMID: 33445797 PMCID: PMC7828243 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26020364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A major obstacle in tumor treatment is associated with the poor penetration of a therapeutic agent into the tumor tissue and with their adverse influence on healthy cells, which limits the dose of drug that can be safely administered to cancer patients. Gemcitabine is an anticancer drug used to treat a wide range of solid tumors and is a first-line treatment for pancreatic cancer. The effect of gemcitabine is significantly weakened by its rapid plasma degradation. In addition, the systemic toxicity and drug resistance significantly reduce its chemotherapeutic efficacy. Up to now, many approaches have been made to improve the therapeutic index of gemcitabine. One of the recently developed approaches to improve conventional chemotherapy is based on the direct targeting of chemotherapeutics to cancer cells using the drug-peptide conjugates. In this work, we summarize recently published gemcitabine peptide-based conjugates and their efficacy in anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Natalia Ptaszyńska
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland;
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19
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Hydrocarbon-Stapled Peptide Based-Nanoparticles for siRNA Delivery. NANOMATERIALS 2020; 10:nano10122334. [PMID: 33255624 PMCID: PMC7760004 DOI: 10.3390/nano10122334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are promising molecules for developing new therapies based on gene silencing; however, their delivery into cells remains an issue. In this study, we took advantage of stapled peptide technology that has emerged as a valuable strategy to render natural peptides more structured, resistant to protease degradation and more bioavailable, to develop short carriers for siRNA delivery. From the pool of stapled peptides that we have designed and synthesized, we identified non-toxic vectors that were able to efficiently encapsulate siRNA, transport them into the cell and induce gene silencing. Remarkably, the most efficient stapled peptide (JMV6582), is composed of only eight amino-acids and contains only two cationic charges.
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20
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Al-Wahaibi LH, Al-Saleem MSM, Ahmed OAA, Fahmy UA, Alhakamy NA, Eid BG, Abdel-Naim AB, Abdel-Mageed WM, AlRasheed MM, Shazly GA. Optimized Conjugation of Fluvastatin to HIV-1 TAT Displays Enhanced Pro-Apoptotic Activity in HepG2 Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4138. [PMID: 32531976 PMCID: PMC7312570 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21114138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence indicates that statins reduce the risk of different cancers and inhibit the proliferation of liver cancer cells. This study aims to explore whether the electrostatic conjugation of optimized fluvastatin (FLV) to human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) trans-activator transcription peptide (TAT) would enhance the anti-proliferative activity against HepG2 cells. FLV-TAT conjugation was optimized to achieve the lowest size with highest zeta potential. Nine formulae were constructed, using a factorial design with three factors-FLV concentration, TAT concentration, and pH of the medium-while the responses were zeta potential and size. The optimized formula showed a particle size of 199.24 nm and 29.14 mV zeta potential. Data indicates that conjugation of FLV to TAT (optimized formula) significantly enhances anti-proliferative activity and uptake by HepG2 cells when compared to raw FLV. Flow cytometry showed significant accumulation of cells in the pre-G phase, which highlights higher apoptotic activity. Annexin V staining indicated a significant increase in total cell death in early and late apoptosis. This was confirmed by significantly elevated caspase 3 in cells exposed to FLV-TAT preparation. In conclusion, the FLV-TAT optimized formula exhibited improved anti-proliferative action against HepG2. This is partially attributed to the enhanced apoptotic effects and cellular uptake of FLV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamya H. Al-Wahaibi
- Department of Chemistry, Science College, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (L.H.A.-W.); (M.S.M.A.-S.)
| | - Muneera S. M. Al-Saleem
- Department of Chemistry, Science College, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (L.H.A.-W.); (M.S.M.A.-S.)
| | - Osama A. A. Ahmed
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (U.A.F.); (N.A.A.)
| | - Usama A. Fahmy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (U.A.F.); (N.A.A.)
| | - Nabil A. Alhakamy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (U.A.F.); (N.A.A.)
| | - Basma G. Eid
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (B.G.E.); (A.B.A.-N.)
| | - Ashraf B. Abdel-Naim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (B.G.E.); (A.B.A.-N.)
| | - Wael M. Abdel-Mageed
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Maha M. AlRasheed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Gamal A. Shazly
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
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21
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Asfour MH. Advanced trends in protein and peptide drug delivery: a special emphasis on aquasomes and microneedles techniques. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2020; 11:1-23. [PMID: 32337668 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-020-00746-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Proteins and peptides have a great potential as therapeutic agents; they have higher efficiency and lower toxicity, compared to chemical drugs. However, their oral bioavailability is very low; also, the transdermal peptide delivery faces absorption limitations. Accordingly, most of proteins and peptides are administered by parenteral route, but there are many problems associated with this route such as patient discomfort, especially for pediatric use. Thus, it is a great challenge to develop drug delivery systems for administration of proteins and peptides by routes other than parenteral one. This review provides an overview on recent advances adopted for protein and peptide drug delivery, focusing on oral and transdermal routes. This is followed by an emphasis on two recent approaches adopted as delivery systems for protein and peptide drugs, namely aquasomes and microneedles. Aquasomes are nanoparticles fabricated from ceramics developed to enhance proteins and peptides stability, providing an adequate residence time in circulation. It consists of ceramic core coated with poly hydroxyl oligomer, on which protein and peptide drug can be adsorbed. Aquasomes preparation, characterization, and application in protein and peptide drug delivery are discussed. Microneedles are promising transdermal approach; it involves creation of micron-sized pores in the skin for enhancing the drug delivery across the skin, as their length ranged between 150 and 1500 μm. Types of microneedles with different drug delivery mechanisms, characterization, and application in protein and peptide drug delivery are discussed. Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Hasanein Asfour
- Pharmaceutical Technology Department, National Research Centre, El-Buhouth Street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt.
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22
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Tomasovic A, Brand T, Schanbacher C, Kramer S, Hümmert MW, Godoy P, Schmidt-Heck W, Nordbeck P, Ludwig J, Homann S, Wiegering A, Shaykhutdinov T, Kratz C, Knüchel R, Müller-Hermelink HK, Rosenwald A, Frey N, Eichler J, Dobrev D, El-Armouche A, Hengstler JG, Müller OJ, Hinrichs K, Cuello F, Zernecke A, Lorenz K. Interference with ERK-dimerization at the nucleocytosolic interface targets pathological ERK1/2 signaling without cardiotoxic side-effects. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1733. [PMID: 32265441 PMCID: PMC7138859 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-15505-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1/2) is linked to several diseases including heart failure, genetic syndromes and cancer. Inhibition of ERK1/2, however, can cause severe cardiac side-effects, precluding its wide therapeutic application. ERKT188-autophosphorylation was identified to cause pathological cardiac hypertrophy. Here we report that interference with ERK-dimerization, a prerequisite for ERKT188-phosphorylation, minimizes cardiac hypertrophy without inducing cardiac adverse effects: an ERK-dimerization inhibitory peptide (EDI) prevents ERKT188-phosphorylation, nuclear ERK1/2-signaling and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, protecting from pressure-overload-induced heart failure in mice whilst preserving ERK1/2-activity and cytosolic survival signaling. We also examine this alternative ERK1/2-targeting strategy in cancer: indeed, ERKT188-phosphorylation is strongly upregulated in cancer and EDI efficiently suppresses cancer cell proliferation without causing cardiotoxicity. This powerful cardio-safe strategy of interfering with ERK-dimerization thus combats pathological ERK1/2-signaling in heart and cancer, and may potentially expand therapeutic options for ERK1/2-related diseases, such as heart failure and genetic syndromes. Drugs targeting dysregulated ERK1/2 signaling can cause severe cardiac side effects, precluding their wide therapeutic application. Here, a new and cardio-safe targeting strategy is presented that interferes with ERK dimerization to prevent pathological ERK1/2 signaling in the heart and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Tomasovic
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Würzburg, 97078, Würzburg, Germany.,Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS-e.V., 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Theresa Brand
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Würzburg, 97078, Würzburg, Germany.,Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS-e.V., 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Constanze Schanbacher
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Würzburg, 97078, Würzburg, Germany.,Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS-e.V., 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Sofia Kramer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Würzburg, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martin W Hümmert
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Würzburg, 97078, Würzburg, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Patricio Godoy
- IfADo-Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Schmidt-Heck
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology -Hans Knoell Institute-, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Peter Nordbeck
- Comprehensive Heart Failure Center, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Ludwig
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Susanne Homann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Würzburg, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Armin Wiegering
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplant, Vascular and Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital of Würzburg, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Timur Shaykhutdinov
- Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS-e.V., 12489, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Kratz
- Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS-e.V., 12489, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ruth Knüchel
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Aachen, RWTH Aachen, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Rosenwald
- Institute of Pathology, University of Würzburg, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Norbert Frey
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University of Kiel, 24105, Kiel, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jutta Eichler
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Ali El-Armouche
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, TU Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jan G Hengstler
- IfADo-Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Oliver J Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University of Kiel, 24105, Kiel, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Kiel, Germany
| | - Karsten Hinrichs
- Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS-e.V., 12489, Berlin, Germany
| | - Friederike Cuello
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Cardiovascular Research Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alma Zernecke
- Institute of Experimental Biomedicine, University Hospital Würzburg, University of Würzburg, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kristina Lorenz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Würzburg, 97078, Würzburg, Germany. .,Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS-e.V., 44139, Dortmund, Germany. .,Comprehensive Heart Failure Center, 97078, Würzburg, Germany.
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23
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Behzadipour Y, Hemmati S. Considerations on the Rational Design of Covalently Conjugated Cell-Penetrating Peptides (CPPs) for Intracellular Delivery of Proteins: A Guide to CPP Selection Using Glucarpidase as the Model Cargo Molecule. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24234318. [PMID: 31779220 PMCID: PMC6930620 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24234318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Access of proteins to their intracellular targets is limited by a hydrophobic barrier called the cellular membrane. Conjugation with cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) has been shown to improve protein transduction into the cells. This conjugation can be either covalent or non-covalent, each with its unique pros and cons. The CPP-protein covalent conjugation may result in undesirable structural and functional alterations in the target protein. Therefore, we propose a systematic approach to evaluate different CPPs for covalent conjugations. This guide is presented using the carboxypeptidase G2 (CPG2) enzyme as the target protein. Seventy CPPs —out of 1155— with the highest probability of uptake efficiency were selected. These peptides were then conjugated to the N- or C-terminus of CPG2. Translational efficacy of the conjugates, robustness and thermodynamic properties of the chimera, aggregation possibility, folding rate, backbone flexibility, and aspects of in vivo administration such as protease susceptibility were predicted. The effect of the position of conjugation was evaluated using unpaired t-test (p < 0.05). It was concluded that N-terminal conjugation resulted in higher quality constructs. Seventeen CPP-CPG2/CPG2-CPP constructs were identified as the most promising. Based on this study, the bioinformatics workflow that is presented may be universally applied to any CPP-protein conjugate design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasaman Behzadipour
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71345-1583, Iran;
| | - Shiva Hemmati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71345-1583, Iran;
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71345-1583, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71345-1583, Iran
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +98-71-3242-4128
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24
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Sun X, Jefferson P, Zhou Q, Angelastro JM, Greene LA. Dominant-Negative ATF5 Compromises Cancer Cell Survival by Targeting CEBPB and CEBPD. Mol Cancer Res 2019; 18:216-228. [PMID: 31676720 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-19-0631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The basic leucine zipper transcription factor ATF5 is overexpressed in many tumor types and interference with its expression or function inhibits cancer cell survival. As a potential therapeutic approach to exploit these findings, we created dominant-negative (DN) ATF5 forms lacking DNA-binding ability that retain the ATF5 leucine zipper, and thus associate with and sequester ATF5's requisite leucine zipper-binding partners. Preclinical studies with DN-ATF5, including a cell-penetrating form, show in vitro and in vivo efficacy in compromising cancer cell survival. However, DN-ATF5's targets, and particularly those required for tumor cell survival, have been unknown. We report that cells lacking ATF5 succumb to DN-ATF5, indicating that ATF5 itself is not DN-ATF5's obligate target. Unbiased pull-down assays coupled with mass spectrometry and immunoblotting revealed that DN-ATF5 associates in cells with the basic leucine zipper proteins CEBPB and CEBPD and coiled-coil protein CCDC6. Consistent with DN-ATF5 affecting tumor cell survival by suppressing CEBPB and CEBPD function, DN-ATF5 interferes with CEBPB and CEBPD transcriptional activity, while CEBPB or CEBPD knockdown promotes apoptotic death of multiple cancer cells lines, but not of normal astrocytes. We propose a two-pronged mechanism by which DN-ATF5 kills tumor cells. One is by inhibiting heterodimer formation between ATF5 and CEBPB and CDBPD, thus suppressing ATF5-dependent transcription. The other is by blocking the formation of transcriptionally active CEBPB and CEBPD homodimers as well as heterodimers with partners in addition to ATF5. IMPLICATIONS: This study indicates that the potential cancer therapeutic DN-ATF5 acts by associating with and blocking the transcriptional activities of CEBPB and CEBPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotian Sun
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Parvaneh Jefferson
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Qing Zhou
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - James M Angelastro
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, California
| | - Lloyd A Greene
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York.
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25
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Sun X, Angelastro JM, Merino D, Zhou Q, Siegelin MD, Greene LA. Dominant-negative ATF5 rapidly depletes survivin in tumor cells. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:709. [PMID: 31551409 PMCID: PMC6760124 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1872-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Survivin (BIRC5, product of the BIRC5 gene) is highly expressed in many tumor types and has been widely identified as a potential target for cancer therapy. However, effective anti-survivin drugs remain to be developed. Here we report that both vector-delivered and cell-penetrating dominant-negative (dn) forms of the transcription factor ATF5 that promote selective death of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo cause survivin depletion in tumor cell lines of varying origins. dn-ATF5 decreases levels of both survivin mRNA and protein. The depletion of survivin protein appears to be driven at least in part by enhanced proteasomal turnover and depletion of the deubiquitinase USP9X. Survivin loss is rapid and precedes the onset of cell death triggered by dn-ATF5. Although survivin downregulation is sufficient to drive tumor cell death, survivin over-expression does not rescue cancer cells from dn-ATF5-promoted apoptosis. This indicates that dn-ATF5 kills malignant cells by multiple mechanisms that include, but are not limited to, survivin depletion. Cell-penetrating forms of dn-ATF5 are currently being developed for potential therapeutic use and the present findings suggest that they may pose an advantage over treatments that target only survivin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotian Sun
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - James M Angelastro
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - David Merino
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,CMI Strategies, Boulogne-Billancourt, 80 rue Gallieni, cedex, France
| | - Qing Zhou
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Markus D Siegelin
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Lloyd A Greene
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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26
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Kulkarni K, Watson GM, Sang J, Wilce JA. Preparation and cellular uptake of bicyclic-peptide cargo clicked to cell penetrating peptides. Pept Sci (Hoboken) 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/pep2.24037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ketav Kulkarni
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Monash University; Clayton VIC 3800 Australia
| | - Gabrielle M. Watson
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Monash University; Clayton VIC 3800 Australia
| | - Jianrong Sang
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine; Jiangsu University; People's Republic of China
| | - Jacqueline A. Wilce
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Monash University; Clayton VIC 3800 Australia
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27
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Larabee JL, Hauck GD, Ballard JD. Cell-penetrating peptides derived from Clostridium difficile TcdB2 and a related large clostridial toxin. J Biol Chem 2017; 293:1810-1819. [PMID: 29247010 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.815373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridium difficile TcdB (2366 amino acid residues) is an intracellular bacterial toxin that binds to cells and enters the cytosol where it glucosylates small GTPases. In the current study, we examined a putative cell entry region of TcdB (amino acid residues 1753-1851) for short sequences that function as cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs). To screen for TcdB-derived CPPs, a panel of synthetic peptides was tested for the ability to enhance transferrin (Tf) association with cells. Four candidate CPPs were discovered, and further study on one peptide (PepB2) pinpointed an asparagine residue necessary for CPP activity. PepB2 mediated the cell entry of a wide variety of molecules including dextran, streptavidin, microspheres, and lentivirus particles. Of note, this uptake was dramatically reduced in the presence of the Na+/H+ exchange blocker and micropinocytosis inhibitor amiloride, suggesting that PepB2 invokes macropinocytosis. Moreover, we found that PepB2 had more efficient cell-penetrating activity than several other well-known CPPs (TAT, penetratin, Pep-1, and TP10). Finally, Tf assay-based screening of peptides derived from two other large clostridial toxins, TcdA and TcsL, uncovered two new TcdA-derived CPPs. In conclusion, we have identified six CPPs from large clostridial toxins and have demonstrated the ability of PepB2 to promote cell association and entry of several molecules through a putative fluid-phase macropinocytotic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason L Larabee
- From the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Garrett D Hauck
- From the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Jimmy D Ballard
- From the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
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28
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Acar H, Samaeekia R, Schnorenberg MR, Sasmal DK, Huang J, Tirrell MV, LaBelle JL. Cathepsin-Mediated Cleavage of Peptides from Peptide Amphiphiles Leads to Enhanced Intracellular Peptide Accumulation. Bioconjug Chem 2017; 28:2316-2326. [PMID: 28771332 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.7b00364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Peptides synthesized in the likeness of their native interaction domain(s) are natural choices to target protein-protein interactions (PPIs) due to their fidelity of orthostatic contact points between binding partners. Despite therapeutic promise, intracellular delivery of biofunctional peptides at concentrations necessary for efficacy remains a formidable challenge. Peptide amphiphiles (PAs) provide a facile method of intracellular delivery and stabilization of bioactive peptides. PAs consisting of biofunctional peptide headgroups linked to hydrophobic alkyl lipid-like tails prevent peptide hydrolysis and proteolysis in circulation, and PA monomers are internalized via endocytosis. However, endocytotic sequestration and steric hindrance from the lipid tail are two major mechanisms that limit PA efficacy to target intracellular PPIs. To address these problems, we have constructed a PA platform consisting of cathepsin-B cleavable PAs in which a selective p53-based inhibitory peptide is cleaved from its lipid tail within endosomes, allowing for intracellular peptide accumulation and extracellular recycling of the lipid moiety. We monitor for cleavage and follow individual PA components in real time using a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based tracking system. Using this platform, we provide a better understanding and quantification of cellular internalization, trafficking, and endosomal cleavage of PAs and of the ultimate fates of each component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Handan Acar
- Institute for Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Eckardt Research Center , 5640 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago , 900 East 57th Street, KCBD 5122, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Ravand Samaeekia
- Institute for Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Eckardt Research Center , 5640 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago , 900 East 57th Street, KCBD 5122, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Mathew R Schnorenberg
- Institute for Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Eckardt Research Center , 5640 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago , 900 East 57th Street, KCBD 5122, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States.,Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Chicago , 924 East 57th Street, Suite 104, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Dibyendu K Sasmal
- Institute for Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Eckardt Research Center , 5640 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Jun Huang
- Institute for Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Eckardt Research Center , 5640 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Matthew V Tirrell
- Institute for Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Eckardt Research Center , 5640 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States.,Institute for Molecular Engineering, Argonne National Laboratory , 9700 South Cass Avenue, Argonne, Illinois 60639, United States
| | - James L LaBelle
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago , 900 East 57th Street, KCBD 5122, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
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29
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Jiao CY, Sachon E, Alves ID, Chassaing G, Bolbach G, Sagan S. Exploiting Benzophenone Photoreactivity To Probe the Phospholipid Environment and Insertion Depth of the Cell-Penetrating Peptide Penetratin in Model Membranes. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201703465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Yu Jiao
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
| | - Emmanuelle Sachon
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
- Sorbonne Universités; Plateforme de Spectrométrie de Masse et Protéomique, IBPS, FRE3631; 7-9 quai St Bernard 75005 Paris France
| | - Isabel D. Alves
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
- Present address: Chemistry and Biology of Membranes and Nanoobjects; University of Bordeaux, Bat. B14; allée Geoffroy St Hilaire 33600 Pessac France
| | - Gérard Chassaing
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
| | - Gérard Bolbach
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
- Sorbonne Universités; Plateforme de Spectrométrie de Masse et Protéomique, IBPS, FRE3631; 7-9 quai St Bernard 75005 Paris France
| | - Sandrine Sagan
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
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30
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Jiao CY, Sachon E, Alves ID, Chassaing G, Bolbach G, Sagan S. Exploiting Benzophenone Photoreactivity To Probe the Phospholipid Environment and Insertion Depth of the Cell-Penetrating Peptide Penetratin in Model Membranes. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017; 56:8226-8230. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201703465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Yu Jiao
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
| | - Emmanuelle Sachon
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
- Sorbonne Universités; Plateforme de Spectrométrie de Masse et Protéomique, IBPS, FRE3631; 7-9 quai St Bernard 75005 Paris France
| | - Isabel D. Alves
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
- Present address: Chemistry and Biology of Membranes and Nanoobjects; University of Bordeaux, Bat. B14; allée Geoffroy St Hilaire 33600 Pessac France
| | - Gérard Chassaing
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
| | - Gérard Bolbach
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
- Sorbonne Universités; Plateforme de Spectrométrie de Masse et Protéomique, IBPS, FRE3631; 7-9 quai St Bernard 75005 Paris France
| | - Sandrine Sagan
- Department of Chemistry; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, PSL Research University, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules (LBM); 4 place Jussieu 75005 Paris France
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31
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Mahboubi M, Movahed S, Hosseini Abardeh R, Hoshyargar V. Theoretical Study of Molecular Transport Through a Permeabilized Cell Membrane in a Microchannel. J Membr Biol 2017; 250:285-299. [PMID: 28456838 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-017-9961-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
A two-dimensional model is developed to study the molecular transport into an immersed cell in a microchannel and to investigate the effects of finite boundary (a cell is suspended in a microchannel), amplitude of electric pulse, and geometrical parameter (microchannel height and size of electrodes) on cell uptake. Embedded electrodes on the walls of the microchannel generate the required electric pulse to permeabilize the cell membrane, pass the ions through the membrane, and transport them into the cell. The shape of electric pulses is square with the time span of 6 ms; their intensities are in the range of 2.2, 2.4, 2.6, 3 V. Numerical simulations have been performed to comprehensively investigate the molecular uptake into the cell. The obtained results of the current study demonstrate that calcium ions enter the cell from the anodic side (the side near positive electrode); after a while, the cell faces depletion of the calcium ions on a positive electrode-facing side within the microchannel; the duration of depletion depends on the amplitude of electric pulse and geometry that lasts from microseconds to milliseconds. By keeping geometrical parameters and time span constant, increment of a pulse intensity enhances molecular uptake and rate of propagation inside the cell. If a ratio of electrode size to cell diameter is larger than 1, the transported amount of Ca 2+ into the cell, as well as the rate of propagation, will be significantly increased. By increasing the height of the microchannel, the rate of uptake is decreased. In an infinite domain, the peak concentration becomes constant after reaching the maximum value; this value depends on the intra-extracellular conductivity and diffusion coefficient of interior and exterior domains of the cell. In comparison, the maximum concentration is changed by geometrical parameters in the microchannel. After reaching the maximum value, the peak concentration reduces due to the depletion of Ca 2+ ions within the microchannel. Electrophoretic velocity has a significant effect on the cell uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Mahboubi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), 424 Hafez Avenue, Tehran, 15875-4413, Iran
| | - Saeid Movahed
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), 424 Hafez Avenue, Tehran, 15875-4413, Iran.
| | - Reza Hosseini Abardeh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), 424 Hafez Avenue, Tehran, 15875-4413, Iran
| | - Vahid Hoshyargar
- Research Lab for Advanced Separation Processes, Department of Chemical Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Narmak, Tehran, 16846-13114, Iran
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32
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Gemcitabine anti-proliferative activity significantly enhanced upon conjugation with cell-penetrating peptides. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2017; 27:2898-2901. [PMID: 28495087 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2017.04.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Gemcitabine proven efficiency against a wide range of solid tumors and undergoes deamination to its inactive uridine metabolite, which underlies its low bioavailability, and tumour resistance was also associated with nucleoside transporter alterations. Hence, we have conjugated gemcitabine to cell-penetrating peptides (CPP), in an effort to both mask its aniline moiety and facilitate its delivery into cancer cells. Two CPP-drug conjugates have been synthesized and studied regarding both the time-dependent kinetics of gemcitabine release and their anti-proliferative activity on three different human cancer cell lines. Results obtained reveal a dramatic increase in the anti-proliferative activity of gemcitabine in vitro, upon conjugation with the CPPs. As such, CPP-gemcitabine conjugates emerge as promising leads for cancer therapy.
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33
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Lundquist P, Artursson P. Oral absorption of peptides and nanoparticles across the human intestine: Opportunities, limitations and studies in human tissues. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2016; 106:256-276. [PMID: 27496705 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 310] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Revised: 07/02/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In this contribution, we review the molecular and physiological barriers to oral delivery of peptides and nanoparticles. We discuss the opportunities and predictivity of various in vitro systems with special emphasis on human intestine in Ussing chambers. First, the molecular constraints to peptide absorption are discussed. Then the physiological barriers to peptide delivery are examined. These include the gastric and intestinal environment, the mucus barrier, tight junctions between epithelial cells, the enterocytes of the intestinal epithelium, and the subepithelial tissue. Recent data from human proteome studies are used to provide information about the protein expression profiles of the different physiological barriers to peptide and nanoparticle absorption. Strategies that have been employed to increase peptide absorption across each of the barriers are discussed. Special consideration is given to attempts at utilizing endogenous transcytotic pathways. To reliably translate in vitro data on peptide or nanoparticle permeability to the in vivo situation in a human subject, the in vitro experimental system needs to realistically capture the central aspects of the mentioned barriers. Therefore, characteristics of common in vitro cell culture systems are discussed and compared to those of human intestinal tissues. Attempts to use the cell and tissue models for in vitro-in vivo extrapolation are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Lundquist
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Box 580, SE-752 37 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - P Artursson
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Box 580, SE-752 37 Uppsala, Sweden.
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34
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Lönn P, Kacsinta AD, Cui XS, Hamil AS, Kaulich M, Gogoi K, Dowdy SF. Enhancing Endosomal Escape for Intracellular Delivery of Macromolecular Biologic Therapeutics. Sci Rep 2016; 6:32301. [PMID: 27604151 PMCID: PMC5015074 DOI: 10.1038/srep32301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 219] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioactive macromolecular peptides and oligonucleotides have significant therapeutic potential. However, due to their size, they have no ability to enter the cytoplasm of cells. Peptide/Protein transduction domains (PTDs), also called cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), can promote uptake of macromolecules via endocytosis. However, overcoming the rate-limiting step of endosomal escape into the cytoplasm remains a major challenge. Hydrophobic amino acid R groups are known to play a vital role in viral escape from endosomes. Here we utilize a real-time, quantitative live cell split-GFP fluorescence complementation phenotypic assay to systematically analyze and optimize a series of synthetic endosomal escape domains (EEDs). By conjugating EEDs to a TAT-PTD/CPP spilt-GFP peptide complementation assay, we were able to quantitatively measure endosomal escape into the cytoplasm of live cells via restoration of GFP fluorescence by intracellular molecular complementation. We found that EEDs containing two aromatic indole rings or one indole ring and two aromatic phenyl groups at a fixed distance of six polyethylene glycol (PEG) units from the TAT-PTD-cargo significantly enhanced cytoplasmic delivery in the absence of cytotoxicity. EEDs address the critical rate-limiting step of endosomal escape in delivery of macromolecular biologic peptide, protein and siRNA therapeutics into cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Lönn
- Dept of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UCSD School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093 USA
| | - Apollo D Kacsinta
- Dept of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UCSD School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093 USA
| | - Xian-Shu Cui
- Dept of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UCSD School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093 USA
| | - Alexander S Hamil
- Dept of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UCSD School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093 USA
| | - Manuel Kaulich
- Dept of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UCSD School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093 USA
| | - Khirud Gogoi
- Dept of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UCSD School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093 USA
| | - Steven F Dowdy
- Dept of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UCSD School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093 USA
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Augmenting the Efficacy of Immunotoxins and Other Targeted Protein Toxins by Endosomal Escape Enhancers. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:toxins8070200. [PMID: 27376327 PMCID: PMC4963833 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8070200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The toxic moiety of almost all protein-based targeted toxins must enter the cytosol of the target cell to mediate its fatal effect. Although more than 500 targeted toxins have been investigated in the past decades, no antibody-targeted protein toxin has been approved for tumor therapeutic applications by the authorities to date. Missing efficacy can be attributed in many cases to insufficient endosomal escape and therefore subsequent lysosomal degradation of the endocytosed toxins. To overcome this drawback, many strategies have been described to weaken the membrane integrity of endosomes. This comprises the use of lysosomotropic amines, carboxylic ionophores, calcium channel antagonists, various cell-penetrating peptides of viral, bacterial, plant, animal, human and synthetic origin, other organic molecules and light-induced techniques. Although the efficacy of the targeted toxins was typically augmented in cell culture hundred or thousand fold, in exceptional cases more than million fold, the combination of several substances harbors new problems including additional side effects, loss of target specificity, difficulties to determine the therapeutic window and cell type-dependent variations. This review critically scrutinizes the chances and challenges of endosomal escape enhancers and their potential role in future developments.
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Spencer B, Williams S, Rockenstein E, Valera E, Xin W, Mante M, Florio J, Adame A, Masliah E, Sierks MR. α-synuclein conformational antibodies fused to penetratin are effective in models of Lewy body disease. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2016; 3:588-606. [PMID: 27606342 PMCID: PMC4999592 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Progressive accumulation of α‐synuclein (α‐syn) has been associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) and Dementia with Lewy body (DLB). The mechanisms through which α‐syn leads to neurodegeneration are not completely clear; however, the formation of various oligomeric species have been proposed to play a role. Antibody therapy has shown effectiveness at reducing α‐syn accumulation in the central nervous system (CNS); however, most of these studies have been conducted utilizing antibodies that recognize both monomeric and higher molecular weight α‐syn. In this context, the main objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of immunotherapy with single‐chain antibodies (scFVs) against specific conformational forms of α‐syn fused to a novel brain penetrating sequence. Method We screened various scFVs against α‐syn expressed from lentiviral vectors by intracerebral injections in an α‐syn tg model. The most effective scFVs were fused to the cell‐penetrating peptide penetratin to enhance transport across the blood–brain barrier, and lentiviral vectors were constructed and tested for efficacy following systemic delivery intraperitoneal into α‐syn tg mice. Result Two scFVs (D5 and 10H) selectively targeted different α‐syn oligomers and reduced the accumulation of α‐syn and ameliorated functional deficits when delivered late in disease development; however, only one of the antibodies (D5) was also effective when delivered early in disease development. These scFVs were also utilized in an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assay to monitor the effects of immunotherapy on α‐syn oligomers in brain and plasma. Interpretation The design and targeting of antibodies for specific species of α‐syn oligomers is crucial for therapeutic immunotherapy and might be of relevance for the treatment of Lewy body disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Spencer
- Department of Neuroscience University of California San Diego California
| | - Stephanie Williams
- Department of Chemical Engineering Arizona State University Tempe Arizona
| | - Edward Rockenstein
- Department of Neuroscience University of California San Diego California
| | - Elvira Valera
- Department of Neuroscience University of California San Diego California
| | - Wei Xin
- Department of Chemical Engineering Arizona State University Tempe Arizona
| | - Michael Mante
- Department of Neuroscience University of California San Diego California
| | - Jazmin Florio
- Department of Neuroscience University of California San Diego California
| | - Anthony Adame
- Department of Neuroscience University of California San Diego California
| | - Eliezer Masliah
- Department of Neuroscience University of California San Diego California; Department of Pathology University of California San Diego California
| | - Michael R Sierks
- Department of Chemical Engineering Arizona State University Tempe Arizona
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Cell Penetrating Peptide Conjugated Chitosan for Enhanced Delivery of Nucleic Acid. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:28912-30. [PMID: 26690119 PMCID: PMC4691089 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161226142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is an emerging therapeutic strategy for the cure or treatment of a spectrum of genetic disorders. Nevertheless, advances in gene therapy are immensely reliant upon design of an efficient gene carrier that can deliver genetic cargoes into the desired cell populations. Among various nonviral gene delivery systems, chitosan-based carriers have gained increasing attention because of their high cationic charge density, excellent biocompatibility, nearly nonexistent cytotoxicity, negligible immune response, and ideal ability to undergo chemical conjugation. However, a major shortcoming of chitosan-based carriers is their poor cellular uptake, leading to inadequate transfection efficiency. The intrinsic feature of cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) for transporting diverse cargoes into multiple cell and tissue types in a safe manner suggests that they can be conjugated to chitosan for improving its transfection efficiency. In this review, we briefly discuss CPPs and their classification, and also the major mechanisms contributing to the cellular uptake of CPPs and cargo conjugates. We also discuss immense improvements for the delivery of nucleic acids using CPP-conjugated chitosan-based carriers with special emphasis on plasmid DNA and small interfering RNA.
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Okamura T, Antoun G, Keir ST, Friedman H, Bigner DD, Ali-Osman F. Phosphorylation of Glutathione S-Transferase P1 (GSTP1) by Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Promotes Formation of the GSTP1-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) Complex and Suppresses JNK Downstream Signaling and Apoptosis in Brain Tumor Cells. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:30866-78. [PMID: 26429914 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.656140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Under normal physiologic conditions, the glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) protein exists intracellularly as a dimer in reversible equilibrium with its monomeric subunits. In the latter form, GSTP1 binds to the mitogen-activated protein kinase, JNK, and inhibits JNK downstream signaling. In tumor cells, which frequently are characterized by constitutively high GSTP1 expression, GSTP1 undergoes phosphorylation by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) at tyrosine residues 3, 7, and 198. Here we report on the effect of this EGFR-dependent GSTP1 tyrosine phosphorylation on the interaction of GSTP1 with JNK, on the regulation of JNK downstream signaling by GSTP1, and on tumor cell survival. Using in vitro and in vivo growing human brain tumors, we show that tyrosine phosphorylation shifts the GSTP1 dimer-monomer equilibrium to the monomeric state and facilitates the formation of the GSTP1-JNK complex, in which JNK is functionally inhibited. Targeted mutagenesis and functional analysis demonstrated that the increased GSTP1 binding to JNK results from phosphorylation of the GSTP1 C-terminal Tyr-198 by EGFR and is associated with a >2.5-fold decrease in JNK downstream signaling and a significant suppression of both spontaneous and drug-induced apoptosis in the tumor cells. The findings define a novel mechanism of regulatory control of JNK signaling that is mediated by the EGFR/GSTP1 cross-talk and provides a survival advantage for tumors with activated EGFR and high GSTP1 expression. The results lay the foundation for a novel strategy of dual EGFR/GSTP1 for treating EGFR+ve, GSTP1 expressing GBMs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stephen T Keir
- From the Departments of Neurosurgery and the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center
| | - Henry Friedman
- From the Departments of Neurosurgery and the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, Duke Cancer Institute and Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina 27710
| | - Darell D Bigner
- From the Departments of Neurosurgery and the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, Duke Cancer Institute and Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina 27710 Pathology and
| | - Francis Ali-Osman
- From the Departments of Neurosurgery and the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, Duke Cancer Institute and Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina 27710 Pathology and
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