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Hallaj A, Ribeiro FT, Widmann C. No Evidence for Plasma Membrane Potential-Independent Cell Penetrating Peptide Direct Translocation. J Pept Sci 2025; 31:e70014. [PMID: 40186362 DOI: 10.1002/psc.70014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2025] [Revised: 03/19/2025] [Accepted: 03/24/2025] [Indexed: 04/07/2025]
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are small peptides that can carry bioactive cargoes into cells. CPPs access the cell's cytosol via direct translocation across the plasma membrane. We and others have shown that direct translocation of CPPs occurs through water pores that are formed upon hyperpolarization of the cell's membrane. Direct translocation through water pores can therefore be blocked by depolarizing the plasma membrane. Other direct translocation mechanisms have been proposed that would not rely on membrane hyperpolarization. It has been reported, for example, that in HEK cells, CPP translocation occurs in a plasma membrane potential-independent manner, in contrast to HeLa cells, where CPP access to the cytosol required plasma membrane hyperpolarization. To address these apparent discrepant data, we have tested the requirement of plasma membrane hyperpolarization in a series of cell lines, including HEK and HeLa cells, for CPP direct translocation. Our data, obtained from a wide range of CPP concentrations, show that efficient direct translocation always requires plasma membrane hyperpolarization. We discuss the possible reasons why earlier studies have not evidenced the importance of the plasma membrane potential in the cytosolic uptake of CPPs in some cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Hallaj
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Christian Widmann
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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2
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Jiang S, Zu C, Wang B, Zhong Y. Enhancing DNA Vaccine Delivery Through Stearyl-Modified Cell-Penetrating Peptides: Improved Antigen Expression and Immune Response In Vitro and In Vivo. Vaccines (Basel) 2025; 13:94. [PMID: 39852873 PMCID: PMC11768954 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines13010094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2024] [Revised: 01/05/2025] [Accepted: 01/10/2025] [Indexed: 01/26/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inefficient cellular uptake is a significant limitation to the efficacy of DNA vaccines. In this study, we introduce S-Cr9T, a stearyl-modified cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) designed to enhance DNA vaccine delivery by forming stable complexes with plasmid DNA, thereby protecting it from degradation and promoting efficient intracellular uptake. METHODS AND RESULTS In vitro studies showed that S-Cr9T significantly improved plasmid stability and transfection efficiency, with optimal performance at an N/P ratio of 0.25. High-content imaging revealed that the S-Cr9T-plasmid complex stably adhered to the cell membrane, leading to enhanced plasmid uptake and transfection. In vivo, S-Cr9T significantly increased antigen expression and triggered a robust immune response, including a threefold increase in IFN-γ secretion and several hundred-fold increases in antibody levels compared to control groups. CONCLUSIONS These findings underscore the potential of S-Cr9T to enhance DNA vaccine efficacy, offering a promising platform for advanced gene therapy and vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Jiang
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (S.J.); (C.Z.)
| | - Cheng Zu
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (S.J.); (C.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (S.J.); (C.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yiwei Zhong
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (S.J.); (C.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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3
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Zakany F, Mándity IM, Varga Z, Panyi G, Nagy P, Kovacs T. Effect of the Lipid Landscape on the Efficacy of Cell-Penetrating Peptides. Cells 2023; 12:1700. [PMID: 37443733 PMCID: PMC10340183 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Every cell biological textbook teaches us that the main role of the plasma membrane is to separate cells from their neighborhood to allow for a controlled composition of the intracellular space. The mostly hydrophobic nature of the cell membrane presents an impenetrable barrier for most hydrophilic molecules larger than 1 kDa. On the other hand, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are capable of traversing this barrier without compromising membrane integrity, and they can do so on their own or coupled to cargos. Coupling biologically and medically relevant cargos to CPPs holds great promise of delivering membrane-impermeable drugs into cells. If the cargo is able to interact with certain cell types, uptake of the CPP-drug complex can be tailored to be cell-type-specific. Besides outlining the major membrane penetration pathways of CPPs, this review is aimed at deciphering how properties of the membrane influence the uptake mechanisms of CPPs. By summarizing an extensive body of experimental evidence, we argue that a more ordered, less flexible membrane structure, often present in the very diseases planned to be treated with CPPs, decreases their cellular uptake. These correlations are not only relevant for understanding the cellular biology of CPPs, but also for rationally improving their value in translational or clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florina Zakany
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.Z.); (Z.V.); (G.P.)
| | - István M. Mándity
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary;
- TTK Lendület Artificial Transporter Research Group, Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Varga
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.Z.); (Z.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Gyorgy Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.Z.); (Z.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Peter Nagy
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.Z.); (Z.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Tamas Kovacs
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (F.Z.); (Z.V.); (G.P.)
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4
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Wickline SA, Hou KK, Pan H. Peptide-Based Nanoparticles for Systemic Extrahepatic Delivery of Therapeutic Nucleotides. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119455. [PMID: 37298407 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide-based nanoparticles (PBN) for nucleotide complexation and targeting of extrahepatic diseases are gaining recognition as potent pharmaceutical vehicles for fine-tuned control of protein production (up- and/or down-regulation) and for gene delivery. Herein, we review the principles and mechanisms underpinning self-assembled formation of PBN, cellular uptake, endosomal release, and delivery to extrahepatic disease sites after systemic administration. Selected examples of PBN that have demonstrated recent proof of concept in disease models in vivo are summarized to offer the reader a comparative view of the field and the possibilities for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A Wickline
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medical Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
| | - Kirk K Hou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stein and Doheny Eye Institutes, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Hua Pan
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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5
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Soltész D, Szabó I, Bánóczi Z. The Balance between Hydrophobicity/Aromaticity and Positively Charged Residues May Influence the Cell Penetration Ability. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041267. [PMID: 37111751 PMCID: PMC10146604 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are commonly modified to increase their cellular uptake, alter the mechanism of penetration or enhance their endosomal release. Earlier, we described the internalization enhancement ability of the 4-((4-(dimethylamino)phenyl)azo)benzoyl (Dabcyl) group. We proved that this modification on the N-terminus of tetra- and hexaarginine enhanced their cellular uptake. The introduction of an aromatic ring 4-(aminomethyl) benzoic acid, AMBA) into the peptide backbone has a synergistic effect with Dabcyl, and the tetraarginine derivatives had outstanding cellular uptake. Based on these results, the effect of Dabcyl or Dabcyl-AMBA modification on the internalization of oligoarginines was studied. Oligoarginines were modified with these groups and their internalization was measured using flow cytometry. The concentration dependence of the cellular uptake of selected constructs was compared too. Their internalization mechanism was also examined by using different endocytosis inhibitors. While the effect of the Dabcyl group was optimal for hexaarginine, the Dabcyl-AMBA group increased the cellular uptake in the case of all oligoarginines. All derivatives, with the exception of only tetraarginine, were more effective than the octaarginine control. The internalization mechanism was dependent on the size of the oligoarginine and was independent of the modification. Our findings suggest that these modifications enhanced the internalization of oligoarginines and resulted in novel, very effective CPPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dóra Soltész
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Eötvös L. University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ildikó Szabó
- ELKH-ELTE Research Group of Peptide Chemistry, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Bánóczi
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Eötvös L. University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
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6
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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: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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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7
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Yousef M, Szabó I, Murányi J, Illien F, Soltész D, Bató C, Tóth G, Batta G, Nagy P, Sagan S, Bánóczi Z. Cell-Penetrating Dabcyl-Containing Tetraarginines with Backbone Aromatics as Uptake Enhancers. Pharmaceutics 2022; 15:pharmaceutics15010141. [PMID: 36678772 PMCID: PMC9864790 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010141] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides represent an emerging class of carriers capable of effective cellular delivery. This work demonstrates the preparation and investigation of efficient CPPs. We have already shown that the presence of 4-((4-(dimethylamino)phenyl)azo)benzoic acid (Dabcyl) and Trp greatly increase the uptake of oligoarginines. This work is a further step in that direction. We have explored the possibility of employing unnatural, aromatic amino acids, to mimic Trp properties and effects. The added residues allow the introduction of aromaticity, not as a side-chain group, but rather as a part of the sequence. The constructs presented exceptional internalization on various cell lines, with an evident structure-activity relationship. The CPPs were investigated for their entry mechanisms, and our peptides exploit favorable pathways, yet one of the peptides relies highly on direct penetration. Confocal microscopy studies have shown selectivity towards the cell lines, by showing diffuse uptake in FADU cells, while vesicular uptake takes place in SCC-25 cell line. These highly active CPPs have proved their applicability in cargo delivery by successfully delivering antitumor drugs into MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. The modifications in the sequences allow the preparation of short yet highly effective constructs able to rival the penetration of well-known CPPs such as octaarginine (Arg8).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo’ath Yousef
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Eötvös L. University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ildikó Szabó
- MTA-ELTE Research Group of Peptide Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - József Murányi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Pathobiochemistry Research Group, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Françoise Illien
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Dóra Soltész
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Eötvös L. University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Csaba Bató
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Eötvös L. University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Tóth
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gyula Batta
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Department of Genetics and Applied Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Péter Nagy
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Sandrine Sagan
- Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Zoltán Bánóczi
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Eötvös L. University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
- Correspondence:
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8
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Tryptophan, more than just an interfacial amino acid in the membrane activity of cationic cell-penetrating and antimicrobial peptides. Q Rev Biophys 2022; 55:e10. [PMID: 35979810 DOI: 10.1017/s0033583522000105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Trp is unique among the amino acids since it is involved in many different types of noncovalent interactions such as electrostatic and hydrophobic ones, but also in π-π, π-cation, π-anion and π-ion pair interactions. In membranotropic peptides and proteins, Trp locates preferentially at the water-membrane interface. In antimicrobial or cell-penetrating peptides (AMPs and CPPs respectively), Trp is well-known for its strong role in the capacity of these peptides to interact and affect the membrane organisation of both bacteria and animal cells at the level of the lipid bilayer. This essential amino acid can however be involved in other types of interactions, not only with lipids, but also with other membrane partners, that are crucial to understand the functional roles of membranotropic peptides. This review is focused on this latter less known role of Trp and describes in details, both in qualitative and quantitative ways: (i) the physico-chemical properties of Trp; (ii) its effect in CPP internalisation; (iii) its importance in AMP activity; (iv) its role in the interaction of AMPs with glycoconjugates or lipids in bacteria membranes and the consequences on the activity of the peptides; (v) its role in the interaction of CPPs with negatively charged polysaccharides or lipids of animal membranes and the consequences on the activity of the peptides. We intend to bring highlights of the physico-chemical properties of Trp and describe its extensive possibilities of interactions, not only at the well-known level of the lipid bilayer, but with other less considered cell membrane components, such as carbohydrates and the extracellular matrix. The focus on these interactions will allow the reader to reevaluate reported studies. Altogether, our review gathers dedicated studies to show how unique are Trp properties, which should be taken into account to design future membranotropic peptides with expected antimicrobial or cell-penetrating activity.
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9
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Bechtella L, Chalouhi E, Milán Rodríguez P, Cosset M, Ravault D, Illien F, Sagan S, Carlier L, Lequin O, Fuchs PFJ, Sachon E, Walrant A. Structural Bases for the Involvement of Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate in the Internalization of the Cell-Penetrating Peptide Penetratin. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:1427-1439. [PMID: 35608167 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.1c00974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides cross cell membranes through various parallel internalization pathways. Herein, we analyze the role of the negatively charged lipid phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) in the internalization of Penetratin. Contributions of both inner leaflet and outer leaflet pools of PI(4,5)P2 were revealed by quantifying the internalization of Penetratin in cells treated with PI(4,5)P2 binders. Studies on model systems showed that Penetratin has a strong affinity for PI(4,5)P2 and interacts selectively with this lipid, even in the presence of other negatively charged lipids, as demonstrated by affinity photo-crosslinking experiments. Differential scanning calorimetry experiments showed that Penetratin induces lateral segregation in PI(4,5)P2-containing liposomes, which was confirmed by coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations. NMR experiments indicated that Penetratin adopts a stabilized helical conformation in the presence of PI(4,5)P2-containing membranes, with an orientation parallel to the bilayer plane, which was also confirmed by all-atom simulations. NMR and photo-crosslinking experiments also suggest a rather shallow insertion of the peptide in the membrane. Put together, our findings suggest that PI(4,5)P2 is a privileged interaction partner for Penetratin and that it plays an important role in Penetratin internalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leïla Bechtella
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Edward Chalouhi
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Paula Milán Rodríguez
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Marine Cosset
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Delphine Ravault
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Françoise Illien
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Sandrine Sagan
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Ludovic Carlier
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Olivier Lequin
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Patrick F. J. Fuchs
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
- Université de Paris, UFR Sciences du Vivant, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Emmanuelle Sachon
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Mass Spectrometry Sciences Sorbonne Université, MS3U platform, UFR 926, UFR 927, Paris 75005, France
| | - Astrid Walrant
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
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10
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Yousef M, Szabó I, Biri‐Kovács B, Szeder B, Illien F, Sagan S, Bánóczi Z. Modification of Short Non‐Permeable Peptides to Increase Cellular Uptake and Cytostatic Activity of Their Conjugates. ChemistrySelect 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202103150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mo'ath Yousef
- Department of Organic Chemistry Eötvös L. University Budapest Hungary
| | - Ildikó Szabó
- MTA-ELTE Research Group of Peptide Chemistry Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH) Budapest Hungary
| | - Beáta Biri‐Kovács
- MTA-ELTE Research Group of Peptide Chemistry Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH) Budapest Hungary
| | - Bálint Szeder
- Research Centre for Natural Sciences Institute of Enzymology Budapest Hungary
| | - Françoise Illien
- 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
| | - Zoltán Bánóczi
- Department of Organic Chemistry Eötvös L. University Budapest Hungary
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Boisguérin P, Konate K, Josse E, Vivès E, Deshayes S. Peptide-Based Nanoparticles for Therapeutic Nucleic Acid Delivery. Biomedicines 2021; 9:583. [PMID: 34065544 PMCID: PMC8161338 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9050583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy offers the possibility to skip, repair, or silence faulty genes or to stimulate the immune system to fight against disease by delivering therapeutic nucleic acids (NAs) to a patient. Compared to other drugs or protein treatments, NA-based therapies have the advantage of being a more universal approach to designing therapies because of the versatility of NA design. NAs (siRNA, pDNA, or mRNA) have great potential for therapeutic applications for an immense number of indications. However, the delivery of these exogenous NAs is still challenging and requires a specific delivery system. In this context, beside other non-viral vectors, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) gain more and more interest as delivery systems by forming a variety of nanocomplexes depending on the formulation conditions and the properties of the used CPPs/NAs. In this review, we attempt to cover the most important biophysical and biological aspects of non-viral peptide-based nanoparticles (PBNs) for therapeutic nucleic acid formulations as a delivery system. The most relevant peptides or peptide families forming PBNs in the presence of NAs described since 2015 will be presented. All these PBNs able to deliver NAs in vitro and in vivo have common features, which are characterized by defined formulation conditions in order to obtain PBNs from 60 nm to 150 nm with a homogeneous dispersity (PdI lower than 0.3) and a positive charge between +10 mV and +40 mV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Sébastien Deshayes
- PhyMedExp, University of Montpellier, INSERM U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, 34295 Montpellier, France; (P.B.); (K.K.); (E.J.); (E.V.)
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12
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Meloni BP, Mastaglia FL, Knuckey NW. Cationic Arginine-Rich Peptides (CARPs): A Novel Class of Neuroprotective Agents With a Multimodal Mechanism of Action. Front Neurol 2020; 11:108. [PMID: 32158425 PMCID: PMC7052017 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
There are virtually no clinically available neuroprotective drugs for the treatment of acute and chronic neurological disorders, hence there is an urgent need for the development of new neuroprotective molecules. Cationic arginine-rich peptides (CARPs) are an expanding and relatively novel class of compounds, which possess intrinsic neuroprotective properties. Intriguingly, CARPs possess a combination of biological properties unprecedented for a neuroprotective agent including the ability to traverse cell membranes and enter the CNS, antagonize calcium influx, target mitochondria, stabilize proteins, inhibit proteolytic enzymes, induce pro-survival signaling, scavenge toxic molecules, and reduce oxidative stress as well as, having a range of anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer actions. CARPs have also been used as carrier molecules for the delivery of other putative neuroprotective agents across the blood-brain barrier and blood-spinal cord barrier. However, there is increasing evidence that the neuroprotective efficacy of many, if not all these other agents delivered using a cationic arginine-rich cell-penetrating peptide (CCPPs) carrier (e.g., TAT) may actually be mediated largely by the properties of the carrier molecule, with overall efficacy further enhanced according to the amino acid composition of the cargo peptide, in particular its arginine content. Therefore, in reviewing the neuroprotective mechanisms of action of CARPs we also consider studies using CCPPs fused to a putative neuroprotective peptide. We review the history of CARPs in neuroprotection and discuss in detail the intrinsic biological properties that may contribute to their cytoprotective effects and their usefulness as a broad-acting class of neuroprotective drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno P Meloni
- Department of Neurosurgery, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Frank L Mastaglia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Neville W Knuckey
- Department of Neurosurgery, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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13
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Ionpair-π interactions favor cell penetration of arginine/tryptophan-rich cell-penetrating peptides. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2020; 1862:183098. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2019.183098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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14
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Abstract
Approximately 75% of all disease-relevant human proteins, including those involved in intracellular protein-protein interactions (PPIs), are undruggable with the current drug modalities (i.e., small molecules and biologics). Macrocyclic peptides provide a potential solution to these undruggable targets because their larger sizes (relative to conventional small molecules) endow them the capability of binding to flat PPI interfaces with antibody-like affinity and specificity. Powerful combinatorial library technologies have been developed to routinely identify cyclic peptides as potent, specific inhibitors against proteins including PPI targets. However, with the exception of a very small set of sequences, the vast majority of cyclic peptides are impermeable to the cell membrane, preventing their application against intracellular targets. This Review examines common structural features that render most cyclic peptides membrane impermeable, as well as the unique features that allow the minority of sequences to enter the cell interior by passive diffusion, endocytosis/endosomal escape, or other mechanisms. We also present the current state of knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of cell penetration, the various strategies for designing cell-permeable, biologically active cyclic peptides against intracellular targets, and the assay methods available to quantify their cell-permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick G. Dougherty
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Ashweta Sahni
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Dehua Pei
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
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15
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Kamei N, Yamamoto S, Hashimoto H, Nishii M, Miyaura M, Tomada K, Nakase I, Takeda-Morishita M. Optimization of the method for analyzing endocytosis of fluorescently tagged molecules: Impact of incubation in the cell culture medium and cell surface wash with glycine-hydrochloric acid buffer. J Control Release 2019; 310:127-140. [PMID: 31442466 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
To obtain the therapeutic effect of biological medicines, such as proteins and nucleic acids, these medicines must achieve their intracellular target, such as the cytoplasm, and pass through biological membrane barriers. Endocytosis is an attractive route for the intracellular delivery of such drugs, and various endocytosis inhibitors have been used as tools to study the involvement of endocytosis in the cell internalization of delivery carriers. However, the specificity of these inhibitors has been insufficiently studied, and our preliminary tests could not detect the expected effect of the well-known endocytosis inhibitors. Therefore, the present study aimed to optimize the experimental conditions to precisely analyze cellular internalization via endocytosis. We first found that incubation of model molecules, such as transferrin (Tf) and cholera toxin subunit B (CTB), in cell culture medium (DMEM) could efficiently induce their internalization to HeLa cells compared to that in transport buffer (HBSS). Moreover, we clarified that cell surface wash with glycine-hydrochloric acid buffer before confocal microscopy and flow cytometry strengthened the intracellular fluorescence of Tf, CTB, and dextran tagged with fluorescent probes possibly via the neutralization of endosomal pH. Even under the optimized condition, however, the specificity of endocytosis inhibitors was disputable. The present study suggested the importance of the optimization of the study design with endocytosis inhibitors in analyzing cellular internalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyasu Kamei
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Systems, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kobe Gakuin University, 1-1-3 Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-8586, Japan.
| | - Satoshi Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Systems, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kobe Gakuin University, 1-1-3 Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-8586, Japan
| | - Hiro Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Systems, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kobe Gakuin University, 1-1-3 Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-8586, Japan
| | - Megumi Nishii
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Systems, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kobe Gakuin University, 1-1-3 Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-8586, Japan
| | - Moe Miyaura
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Systems, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kobe Gakuin University, 1-1-3 Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-8586, Japan
| | - Kiho Tomada
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Systems, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kobe Gakuin University, 1-1-3 Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-8586, Japan
| | - Ikuhiko Nakase
- Laboratory for Cellular Regulation Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Prefecture University, 1-2 Gakuen-cho, Naka-ku, Sakai-Shi, Osaka 599-8570, Japan
| | - Mariko Takeda-Morishita
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Systems, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kobe Gakuin University, 1-1-3 Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-8586, Japan
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16
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Bechtella L, Kirschbaum C, Cosset M, Clodic G, Matheron L, Bolbach G, Sagan S, Walrant A, Sachon E. Benzophenone Photoreactivity in a Lipid Bilayer To Probe Peptide/Membrane Interactions: Simple System, Complex Information. Anal Chem 2019; 91:9102-9110. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.9b01584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leïla Bechtella
- Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Carla Kirschbaum
- Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, 75005 Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Plateforme de spectrométrie de masse et protéomique, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Marine Cosset
- Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Gilles Clodic
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Plateforme de spectrométrie de masse et protéomique, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Lucrèce Matheron
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Plateforme de spectrométrie de masse et protéomique, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Gérard Bolbach
- Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, 75005 Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Plateforme de spectrométrie de masse et protéomique, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Sandrine Sagan
- 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
| | - Emmanuelle Sachon
- Sorbonne Université, École normale supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, 75005 Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Plateforme de spectrométrie de masse et protéomique, 75005 Paris, France
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17
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Konate K, Dussot M, Aldrian G, Vaissière A, Viguier V, Neira IF, Couillaud F, Vivès E, Boisguerin P, Deshayes S. Peptide-Based Nanoparticles to Rapidly and Efficiently "Wrap 'n Roll" siRNA into Cells. Bioconjug Chem 2019; 30:592-603. [PMID: 30586303 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.8b00776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) as a therapeutic tool is limited due to critical obstacles such as the cellular barrier, the negative charges of the siRNA molecule, and its instability in serum. Several siRNA delivery systems have been constructed using cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) since the CPPs have shown a high potential for oligonucleotide delivery into the cells, especially by forming nanoparticles. In this study, we have developed a new family of short (15mer or 16mer) tryptophan-(W) and arginine-(R) rich Amphipathic Peptides (WRAP) able to form stable nanoparticles and to enroll siRNA molecules into cells. The lead peptides, WRAP1 and WRAP5, form defined nanoparticles smaller than 100 nm as characterized by biophysical methods. Furthermore, they have several benefits as oligonucleotide delivery tools such as the rapid encapsulation of the siRNA, the efficient siRNA delivery in several cell types, and the high gene silencing activity, even in the presence of serum. In conclusion, we have designed a new family of CPPs specifically dedicated for siRNA delivery through nanoparticle formation. Our results indicate that the WRAP family has significant potential for the safe, efficient, and rapid delivery of siRNA for diverse applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karidia Konate
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie cellulaire de Montpellier, CNRS UMR 5237 , Université de Montpellier , 1919 Route de Mende , 34293 Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Marion Dussot
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie cellulaire de Montpellier, CNRS UMR 5237 , Université de Montpellier , 1919 Route de Mende , 34293 Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Gudrun Aldrian
- Sys2Diag , UMR 9005-CNRS/ALCEDIAG , 1682 Rue de la Valsière , 34184 Montpellier Cedex 4, France
| | - Anaïs Vaissière
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie cellulaire de Montpellier, CNRS UMR 5237 , Université de Montpellier , 1919 Route de Mende , 34293 Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Véronique Viguier
- Université de Montpellier , Place Eugène Bataillon , 34095 Montpellier , France
| | - Isabel Ferreiro Neira
- EA 7435 IMOTION (Imagerie moléculaire et thérapies innovantes en oncologie) , Université de Bordeaux , 146 rue Leo Saignat , 33076 Bordeaux , France
| | - Franck Couillaud
- EA 7435 IMOTION (Imagerie moléculaire et thérapies innovantes en oncologie) , Université de Bordeaux , 146 rue Leo Saignat , 33076 Bordeaux , France
| | - Eric Vivès
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie cellulaire de Montpellier, CNRS UMR 5237 , Université de Montpellier , 1919 Route de Mende , 34293 Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Prisca Boisguerin
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie cellulaire de Montpellier, CNRS UMR 5237 , Université de Montpellier , 1919 Route de Mende , 34293 Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Sébastien Deshayes
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie cellulaire de Montpellier, CNRS UMR 5237 , Université de Montpellier , 1919 Route de Mende , 34293 Montpellier Cedex 5, France
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18
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Walrant A, Cardon S, Burlina F, Sagan S. Membrane Crossing and Membranotropic Activity of Cell-Penetrating Peptides: Dangerous Liaisons? Acc Chem Res 2017; 50:2968-2975. [PMID: 29172443 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.7b00455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Living organisms have to maintain a stable balance in molecules and ions in the changing environment in which they are living, a process known as homeostasis. At the level of cells, the plasma membrane has a major role in homeostasis, since this hydrophobic film prevents passive diffusion of large and hydrophilic molecules between the extracellular and intracellular milieu. Living organisms have evolved with highly sophisticated transport systems to control exchanges across this barrier: import of nutrients and fuel essential for their survival; recognition of chemical or physical messengers allowing information interchanges with surrounding cells. Besides specialized proteins, endocytosis mechanisms at the level of the lipid bilayer can transport molecules from the outside across the cell membrane, in an energy-dependent manner. The cell membrane is highly heterogeneous in its molecular composition (tens of different lipids, proteins, polysaccharides, and combinations of these) and dynamic with bending, deformation, and elastic properties that depend on the local composition of membrane domains. Many viruses, microorganisms, and toxins exploit the plasma membrane to enter into cells. Chemists develop strategies to target the plasma membrane with molecules capable of circumventing this hydrophobic barrier, in particular to transport and deliver nonpermeable drugs in cells for biotechnological or pharmaceutical purposes. Drug delivery systems are numerous and include lipid-, sugar-, protein-, and peptide-based delivery systems, since these biomolecules generally have good biocompatibility, biodegradability, environmental sustainability, cost effectiveness, and availability. Among those, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), reported for the first time in the early 1990s, are attracting major interest not only as potential drug delivery systems but also at the level of fundamental research. It was indeed demonstrated very early that these peptides, which generally correspond to highly cationic sequences, can still cross the cell membrane at 4 °C, a temperature at which all active transport and endocytosis pathways are totally inhibited. Therefore, how these charged hydrophilic peptides cross the hydrophobic membrane barrier is of utmost interest as a pure basic and physicochemical question. In this Account, we focus on cationic cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) and the way they cross cell membranes. We summarize the history of this field that emerged around 20 years ago. CPPs were indeed first identified as protein-transduction domains from the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) TAT protein and the Antennapedia homeoprotein, a transcription factor from Drosophila. We highlight our contribution to the elucidation of CPP internalization pathways, in particular translocation, which implies perturbation and reorganization of the lipid bilayer, and endocytosis depending on sulfated glycosaminoglycans. We show a particular role of Trp (indole side chain) and Arg (guanidinium side chain), which are essential amino acids for CPP internalization. Interactions with the cell-surface are not only Coulombic; H-bonds and hydrophobic interactions contribute also significantly to CPP entry. The capacity of CPPs to cross cell membrane is not related to their strength of membrane binding. Finally, we present optimized methods based on mass spectrometry and fluorescence spectroscopy that allow unequivocal quantification of CPPs inside cells or bound to the outer leaflet of the membrane, and discuss some limitations of the technique of flow cytometry that we have recently highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Walrant
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ. Paris 06, École normale
supérieure, PSL Research University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules
(LBM), 4 place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Sébastien Cardon
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ. Paris 06, École normale
supérieure, PSL Research University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules
(LBM), 4 place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Fabienne Burlina
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ. Paris 06, École normale
supérieure, PSL Research University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules
(LBM), 4 place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Sandrine Sagan
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ. Paris 06, École normale
supérieure, PSL Research University, CNRS, Laboratoire des Biomolécules
(LBM), 4 place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France
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19
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Gagat M, Zielińska W, Grzanka A. Cell-penetrating peptides and their utility in genome function modifications (Review). Int J Mol Med 2017; 40:1615-1623. [PMID: 29039455 PMCID: PMC5716439 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
For almost 30 years, studies have confirmed the effectiveness of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) in the facilitation of the intracellular delivery of various cargo molecules, including RNA, DNA, plasmids, proteins or nanoparticles, under in vitro and in vivo conditions. The cellular uptake of CPPs occurs via energy-dependent, as well as -independent mechanisms. In this relatively new direction of research, studies have attempted to introduce genome modification systems into cells by CPPs. Cellular uptake of CPPs carrying either covalently bound or electrostatically conjugated cargo, has several advantages over viral delivery systems, as it does not lead to any significant cytotoxicity or immunogenicity, and simultaneously it is more efficient than other non-viral systems. So far, CPPs have been successfully used to introduce Cre recombinase, zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats systems into cells. The present article systematically reviewed the information obtained from studies on CPPs and assessed their utility with regard to their effectiveness and safety of use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Gagat
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Pl-85-092 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Wioletta Zielińska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Pl-85-092 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Alina Grzanka
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Pl-85-092 Bydgoszcz, Poland
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20
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Membrane permeation of arginine-rich cell-penetrating peptides independent of transmembrane potential as a function of lipid composition and membrane fluidity. J Control Release 2017; 256:68-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2017.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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21
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Meloni BP, Milani D, Cross JL, Clark VW, Edwards AB, Anderton RS, Blacker DJ, Knuckey NW. Assessment of the Neuroprotective Effects of Arginine-Rich Protamine Peptides, Poly-Arginine Peptides (R12-Cyclic, R22) and Arginine-Tryptophan-Containing Peptides Following In Vitro Excitotoxicity and/or Permanent Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion in Rats. Neuromolecular Med 2017; 19:271-285. [PMID: 28523591 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-017-8441-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
We have demonstrated that arginine-rich and poly-arginine peptides possess potent neuroprotective properties with arginine content and peptide positive charge being particularly critical for neuroprotective efficacy. In addition, the presence of other amino acids within arginine-rich peptides, as well as chemical modifications, peptide length and cell-penetrating properties also influence the level of neuroprotection. Against this background, we have examined the neuroprotective efficacy of arginine-rich protamine peptides, a cyclic (R12-c) poly-arginine peptide and a R22 poly-arginine peptide, as well as arginine peptides containing tryptophan or other amino acids (phenylalanine, tyrosine, glycine or leucine) in in vitro glutamic acid excitotoxicity and in vivo rat permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion models of stroke. In vitro studies demonstrated that protamine and poly-arginine peptides (R12-c, R22) were neuroprotective. Arginine-tryptophan-containing peptides were highly neuroprotective, with R12W8a being the most potent arginine-rich peptide identified in our laboratory. Peptides containing phenylalanine or tyrosine substituted in place of tryptophan in R12W8a were also highly neuroprotective, whereas leucine, and in particular glycine substitutions, decreased peptide efficacy. In vivo studies with protamine administered intravenously at 1000 nmol/kg 30 min after MCAO significantly reduced infarct volume and cerebral oedema by 22.5 and 38.6%, respectively. The R12W8a peptide was highly toxic when administered intravenously at 300 or 100 nmol/kg and ineffective at reducing infarct volume when administered at 30 nmol/kg 30 min after MCAO, unlike R18 (30 nmol/kg), which significantly reduced infarct volume by 20.4%. However, both R12W8a and R18 significantly reduced cerebral oedema by 19.8 and 42.2%, respectively. Protamine, R12W8a and R18 also reduced neuronal glutamic acid-induced calcium influx. These findings further highlight the neuroprotective properties of arginine-rich peptides and support the view that they represent a new class of neuroprotective agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno P Meloni
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, Australia. .,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.
| | - Diego Milani
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.,Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,School of Heath Sciences, The University Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, Australia
| | - Jane L Cross
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.,Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Vince W Clark
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.,Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Adam B Edwards
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.,Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,School of Heath Sciences, The University Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, Australia
| | - Ryan S Anderton
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,School of Heath Sciences, The University Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, Australia
| | - David J Blacker
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Neville W Knuckey
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.,Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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22
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Peña LC, Argarañá MF, Zan MMD, Giorello A, Antuña S, Prieto CC, Veaute CMI, Müller DM. New Amphiphilic Amino Acid Derivatives for Efficient DNA Transfection <i>in Vitro</i>. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.4236/aces.2017.72014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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23
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Quantitative fluorescence spectroscopy and flow cytometry analyses of cell-penetrating peptides internalization pathways: optimization, pitfalls, comparison with mass spectrometry quantification. Sci Rep 2016; 6:36938. [PMID: 27841303 PMCID: PMC5107916 DOI: 10.1038/srep36938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of cell-penetrating peptides entry into cells is unclear, preventing the development of more efficient vectors for biotechnological or therapeutic purposes. Here, we developed a protocol relying on fluorometry to distinguish endocytosis from direct membrane translocation, using Penetratin, TAT and R9. The quantities of internalized CPPs measured by fluorometry in cell lysates converge with those obtained by our previously reported mass spectrometry quantification method. By contrast, flow cytometry quantification faces several limitations due to fluorescence quenching processes that depend on the cell line and occur at peptide/cell ratio >6.108 for CF-Penetratin. The analysis of cellular internalization of a doubly labeled fluorescent and biotinylated Penetratin analogue by the two independent techniques, fluorometry and mass spectrometry, gave consistent results at the quantitative and qualitative levels. Both techniques revealed the use of two alternative translocation and endocytosis pathways, whose relative efficacy depends on cell-surface sugars and peptide concentration. We confirmed that Penetratin translocates at low concentration and uses endocytosis at high μM concentrations. We further demonstrate that the hydrophobic/hydrophilic nature of the N-terminal extremity impacts on the internalization efficiency of CPPs. We expect these results and the associated protocols to help unraveling the translocation pathway to the cytosol of cells.
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24
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Alves ID, Carré M, Lavielle S. A Pathway Toward Tumor Cell-Selective CPPs? Methods Mol Biol 2016. [PMID: 26202276 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2806-4_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Despite the great potential of CPPs in therapeutics and diagnosis, their application still suffers from a non-negligible drawback: a complete lack of cell-type specificity. In the innumerous routes proposed for CPP cell entry there is common agreement that electrostatic interactions between cationic CPPs and anionic components in membranes, including lipids and glycosaminoglycans, play a crucial role. Tumor cells have been shown to overexpress certain glycosaminoglycans at the cell membrane surface and to possess a higher amount of anionic lipids in their outer leaflet when compared with healthy cells. Such molecules confer tumor cell membranes an enhanced anionic character, a property that could be exploited by CPPs to preferentially target these cells. Herein, these aspects are discussed in an attempt to confer CPPs certain selectivity toward cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel D Alves
- Institute of Chemistry & Biology of Membranes & Nanoobjects (UMR5248 CBMN), CNRS, Institut Polytechnique Bordeaux, Universite Bordeaux, All. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 33600, Pessac, France,
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Abstract
During the three decades of cell-penetrating peptides era the superfamily of CPPs has rapidly expanded, and the quest for new sequences continues. CPPs have been well recognized by scientific community and they have been used for transduction of a wide variety of molecules and particles into cultured cells and in vivo. In parallel with application of CPPs for delivering of active payloads, the mechanisms that such peptides take advantage of for gaining access to cells' insides have been in the focus of intense studies. Although the common denominator "cell penetration" unites all CPPs, the interaction partners on the cell surface, evoked cellular responses and even the uptake mechanisms might greatly vary between different peptide types. Here we present some possibilities for classification of CPPs based on their type of origin, physical-chemical properties, and the extent of modifications and design efforts. We also briefly analyze the internalization mechanisms with regard to their classification into groups based on physical-chemical characteristics.
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Pae J, Liivamägi L, Lubenets D, Arukuusk P, Langel Ü, Pooga M. Glycosaminoglycans are required for translocation of amphipathic cell-penetrating peptides across membranes. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2016; 1858:1860-7. [PMID: 27117133 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2016.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Revised: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are considered as one of the most promising tools to mediate the cellular delivery of various biologically active compounds that are otherwise cell impermeable. CPPs can internalize into cells via two different pathways - endocytosis and direct translocation across the plasma membrane. In both cases, the initial step of internalization requires interactions between CPPs and different plasma membrane components. Despite the extensive research, it is not yet fully understood, which of these cell surface molecules mediate the direct translocation of CPPs across the plasma- and endosomal membrane. In the present study we used giant plasma membrane vesicles (GPMVs) as a model membrane system to elucidate the specific molecular mechanisms behind the internalization and the role of cell surface glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in the translocation of four well-known CPPs, classified as cationic (nona-arginine, Tat peptide) and amphipathic (transportan and TP10). We demonstrate here that GAGs facilitate the translocation of amphipathic CPPs, but not the internalization of cationic CPPs; and that the uptake is not mediated by a specific GAG class, but rather the overall amount of these polysaccharides is crucial for the internalization of amphipathic peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janely Pae
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Laura Liivamägi
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Dmitri Lubenets
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Piret Arukuusk
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ülo Langel
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia; Department of Neurochemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Margus Pooga
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.
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Liu H, Zeng F, Zhang M, Huang F, Wang J, Guo J, Liu C, Wang H. Emerging landscape of cell penetrating peptide in reprogramming and gene editing. J Control Release 2016; 226:124-137. [PMID: 26849918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 01/31/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The plasma membrane remains a major barrier for intracellular drug delivery, to overcome this issue, a variety of approaches have been developed and used to deliver therapeutic cargos. Among these approaches, cell penetrating peptide (CPP) is promising and affords widely used vector for efficient intracellular delivery of cargos. Moreover, the latter findings including iPS reprogramming and direct transdifferentiation as well as gene editing have gradually become hot research topic; because their application in tissue engineering and disease modeling have great potential to advance innovation in precision medicine. Since the beginning, research on these approaches is mainly based on virus transduction system, while, under the consideration for obviating the risk of mutagenic insertion and enables more accurate controlling, CPP-based efficient virus-free delivery strategy has been used recently. In this review, we summarize the existing CPP-based delivery system, emerging landscape of CPP application in stem cell manipulation and reprogramming, along with CPP contributions to gene editing techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiting Liu
- Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chongqing Three Gorges Central Hospital, Wanzhou 404000, China
| | - Fanhui Zeng
- The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi 445000, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Fajun Huang
- School of Medical Science, Hubei University for Nationalities, Enshi 445000, China
| | - Jiajun Wang
- Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; School of Medical Science, Hubei University for Nationalities, Enshi 445000, China.
| | - Jingjing Guo
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Changbai Liu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China.
| | - Hu Wang
- Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
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Spontaneous membrane-translocating peptides: influence of peptide self-aggregation and cargo polarity. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16914. [PMID: 26567719 PMCID: PMC4645181 DOI: 10.1038/srep16914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptides that translocate spontaneously across cell membranes could transform the field of drug delivery by enabling the transport of otherwise membrane-impermeant molecules into cells. In this regard, a 9-aminoacid-long motif (representative sequence: PLIYLRLLR, hereafter Translocating Motif 9, TM9) that spontaneously translocates across membranes while carrying a polar dye was recently identified by high-throughput screening. Here we investigate its transport properties by a combination of in cuvette physico-chemical assays, rational mutagenesis, live-cell confocal imaging and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy measurements. We unveil TM9 ability to self-aggregate in a concentration-dependent manner and demonstrate that peptide self-aggregation is a necessary –yet not sufficient– step for effective membrane translocation. Furthermore we show that membrane crossing can occur with apolar payloads while it is completely inhibited by polar ones. These findings are discussed and compared to previous reports. The present results impose a careful rethinking of this class of sequences as direct-translocation vectors suitable for delivery purposes.
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Kauffman WB, Fuselier T, He J, Wimley WC. Mechanism Matters: A Taxonomy of Cell Penetrating Peptides. Trends Biochem Sci 2015; 40:749-764. [PMID: 26545486 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2015.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 248] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The permeability barrier imposed by cellular membranes limits the access of exogenous compounds to the interior of cells. Researchers and patients alike would benefit from efficient methods for intracellular delivery of a wide range of membrane-impermeant molecules, including biochemically active small molecules, imaging agents, peptides, peptide nucleic acids, proteins, RNA, DNA, and nanoparticles. There has been a sustained effort to exploit cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) for the delivery of such useful cargoes in vitro and in vivo because of their biocompatibility, ease of synthesis, and controllable physical chemistry. Here, we discuss the many mechanisms by which CPPs can function, and describe a taxonomy of mechanisms that could be help organize future efforts in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Berkeley Kauffman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Taylor Fuselier
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Jing He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - William C Wimley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
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