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Oncu S, Becit-Kizilkaya M, Sen S, Ugur-Kaplan AB, Cetin M, Celik S. Daidzein nanosuspension in combination with cisplatin to enhance therapeutic efficacy against A549 non-small lung cancer cells: an in vitro evaluation. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:4871-4881. [PMID: 38159158 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02924-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related mortality, chemo-resistance, and toxicity limit treatment. The focus is on innovative combined phytotherapy to improve treatment outcomes. Our aim was to investigate the potential effects of daidzein nanosuspension (DZ-NS) and its combination with cisplatin (CIS) on A549 non-small lung cancer cells. Cytotoxicity was investigated using MTT and Chou-Talalay methods. Oxidative, apoptotic, and inflammatory markers were analyzed by ELISA and qRT-PCR. The IC50 value for DZ-NS was 25.23 µM for 24 h and was lower than pure DZ (IC50 = 835 µM for pure DZ). DZ-NS (at IC50x2 and IC50 values) showed synergistic cytotoxicity with CIS. The cells treated with DZ-NS had low TOS and OSI levels. However, DZ-NS failed to regulate Cas3 and TGF-β1 activation in A549 cells. MMP-9 gene expression was significantly suppressed in DZ-NS-treated cells, especially in combination therapy. DZ represents a potential combination option for the treatment of lung cancer, and its poor toxicokinetic properties limit its clinical use. To overcome these limitations, the effects of the nanosuspension formulation were tested. DZ-NS showed a cytotoxic effect on A549 cells and optimized the therapeutic effect of CIS. This in vitro synergistic effect was mediated by suppression of MMP-9 and not by oxidative stress or Cas3-activated apoptosis. This study provides the basis for an in vivo and clinical trial of DZ-NS with concurrent chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyma Oncu
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
| | - Merve Becit-Kizilkaya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University, Afyonkarahisar, 03030, Turkey.
| | - Serkan Sen
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Ataturk Vocational School of Health Services, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
| | - Afife Busra Ugur-Kaplan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Meltem Cetin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Sefa Celik
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
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2
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Saraswat A, Patel K. Development and in-depth characterization of BRAFi-resistant melanoma cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Exp Cell Res 2024; 438:114033. [PMID: 38593916 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.114033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Regardless of the clinical response and improved patient survival observed following treatment with BRAFi like Vemurafenib (Vem), rapid development of resistance still remains as a major obstacle in melanoma therapy. In this context, we developed and characterized two acquired Vem-resistant melanoma cell lines, A375V and SK-MEL-28V, and an intrinsically Vem-resistant cell line, RPMI-7951. Altered morphology and growth rate of the resistant cell lines displayed spindle-shaped cells with filopodia formation and enhanced proliferation rate as compared to parental cells. Further in vitro characterization in 2D models confirmed the emergence of a resistant phenotype in melanoma cells. To mimic the in vivo tumor microenvironment, spheroids were developed for both parental and resistant cell lines to recognize materialization of invadopodia structures demonstrating elevated invasiveness and proliferation of resistant cells-based spheroids, especially A375V. Importantly, we validated A375V cell line in vivo to prove its tumorigenicity and drug resistance in tumor xenograft model. Taken together, our established clinically relevant Vem-resistant tumor model could be beneficial to elucidate drug resistance mechanisms, screen and identify novel anticancer therapies to overcome BRAFi resistance in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Saraswat
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, 11439, USA
| | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, 11439, USA.
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3
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Zhong J, Zhao R, Wang Y, Su YX, Lan X. Nano-PROTACs: state of the art and perspectives. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:4378-4391. [PMID: 38305466 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr06059d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs), as a recently identified technique in the field of new drug development, provide new concepts for disease treatment and are expected to revolutionize drug discovery. With high specificity and flexibility, PROTACs serve as an innovative research tool to target and degrade disease-relevant proteins that are not currently pharmaceutically vulnerable to eliminating their functions by hijacking the ubiquitin-proteasome system. To date, PROTACs still face the challenges of low solubility, poor permeability, off-target effects, and metabolic instability. The combination of nanotechnology and PROTACs has been explored to enhance the in vivo performance of PROTACs regarding overcoming these challenging hurdles. In this review, we summarize the latest advancements in the building-block design of PROTAC prodrug nanoparticles and provide an overview of existing/potential delivery systems and loading approaches for PROTAC drugs. Furthermore, we discuss the current status and prospects of the split-and-mix approach for PROTAC drug optimization. Additionally, the advantages and translational potentials of carrier-free nano-PROTACs and their combinational therapeutic effects are highlighted. This review aims to foster a deeper understanding of this rapidly evolving field and facilitate the progress of nano-PROTACs that will continue to push the boundaries of achieving selectivity and controlled release of PROTAC drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhong
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education of China, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
- Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
| | - Ruiqi Zhao
- Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
| | - Yuji Wang
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education of China, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
| | - Yu-Xiong Su
- Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
| | - Xinmiao Lan
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education of China, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
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4
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Saraswat A, Vartak R, Hegazy R, Fu Y, Rao TJR, Billack B, Patel K. Oral lipid nanocomplex of BRD4 PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera and vemurafenib for drug-resistant malignant melanoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115754. [PMID: 37871557 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115754] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) like vemurafenib (VEM) provide initial regression in mutated melanoma but rapidly develop resistance. Molecular pathways responsible for development of resistance against VEM finally converge towards the activation of oncogenic c-Myc. We identified an epigenetic approach to inhibit the c-Myc expression and resensitize BRAFi-resistant melanoma cells. ARV-825 (ARV) was employed as a BRD4 targeted PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera that selectively degrades the BRD4 to downregulate c-Myc. ARV synergistically enhanced the cytotoxicity of VEM in vitro to overcome its resistance in melanoma. Development of ARV and VEM-loaded lipid nanocomplex (NANOVB) significantly improved their physicochemical properties for oral delivery. Most importantly, oral administration of NANOVB substantially inhibited tumor growth at rate of 41.07 mm3/day in nude athymic mice. NANOVB treatment resulted in prolonged survival with 50% of mice surviving until the experimental endpoint. Histopathological analysis revealed significant tumor necrosis and downregulation of Ki-67 and BRD4 protein in vivo. Promising in vivo antitumor activity and prolonged survival demonstrated by NANOVB signifies its clinical translational potential for BRAFi-resistant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Saraswat
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Richa Vartak
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Rehab Hegazy
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA; Pharmacology Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Yige Fu
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | | | - Blase Billack
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
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Vartak R, Deore B, Sanhueza CA, Patel K. Cetuximab-based PROteolysis targeting chimera for effectual downregulation of NSCLC with varied EGFR mutations. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 252:126413. [PMID: 37598823 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
PROteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) showed tremendous therapeutic potential in degrading several oncoproteins including undruggable proteins. PROTACs are bifunctional molecules where one-part binds to target protein while the other end recruits protein degradation machinery. With the unveiling advancements in the field of PROTACs, we explored a combinatorial approach by developing antibody-based PROTAC (ABTAC) which may effectively degrade one of the key oncoprotein driving proliferation and progression of cancer - Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The objective of current research was to synthesize and characterize an EGFR degrading ABTAC for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Cetuximab and pomalidomide (E3 ligase recruiting ligand) were conjugated using lysine conjugation and copper free azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) click chemistry. Analytical characterization using reverse-phase liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry suggested conjugation of five E3-ligase inhibitor molecules/antibody. Nearly 10-30 folds reduction in IC50 was observed with ABTAC in HCC827 (EGFR sensitive) and H1650 (EGFR resistant) cells compared to cetuximab. Multicellular 3D spheroid assay strongly suggested that ABTAC induced significant apoptosis and also inhibited cell proliferation compared to control and antibody alone. Circular dichroism and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) confirmed minor alterations in the structure and receptor binding efficacy of the antibody post-conjugation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Vartak
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, United States of America
| | - Bhavesh Deore
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, United States of America
| | - Carlos A Sanhueza
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, United States of America
| | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, United States of America.
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6
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Saraswat A, Patel K. Delineating effect of headgroup and preparation method on transfection versus toxicity of DNA-loaded lipid nanocarriers. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2023; 18:1921-1940. [PMID: 38078422 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2023-0219] [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] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: To perform a parallel comparison of key parameters affecting the safety and efficiency of lipid-based nanovectors (i.e., complexing headgroups, composition and preparation method). Materials & methods: Various cationic and ionizable headgroups were screened for formulating lipoplexes with GFP-plasmid DNA. Ethanol injection and microfluidics were used to prepare nanoparticles with GFP-plasmid DNA complexed on the surface or within the interior of lipid bilayers. Results: Lipoplexes composed of sphingomyelin 102 exhibited the highest transfection efficiency given their higher cellular uptake in BRAF inhibitor-resistant melanoma cells. Lipid nanoparticles demonstrated acceptable transfection efficiency and high spheroid penetration while protecting plasmid DNA under simulated physiological conditions. Conclusion: Selecting the right complexing lipid and preparation method is critical for developing lipid nanocarriers to treat intractable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Saraswat
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
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7
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Patel H, Palekar S, Patel A, Patel K. Ibrutinib amorphous solid dispersions with enhanced dissolution at colonic pH for the localized treatment of colorectal cancer. Int J Pharm 2023; 641:123056. [PMID: 37207861 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Ibrutinib (IBR), the first in class bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor has promising anticancer activity. In this study, we aimed to develop a hot melt extrusion based amorphous solid dispersions (ASD) of IBR with enhanced dissolution at colonic pH and assess the anticancer activity against colon cancer cell lines. Since colonic pH is higher in CRC patients compared to healthy individuals, Eudragit® FS100 was used as pH dependent polymeric matrix for colon enabled release of IBR. Poloxamer 407, TPGS and poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) were screened as plasticizer and solubilizer to improve the processability and solubility. Solid state characterization and filament appearance confirmed that IBR was molecularly dispersed within FS100+TPGS matrix. In-vitro drug release of ASD showed >96% drug release within 6 h at colonic pH with no precipitation for 12 h. Contrary, crystalline IBR showed negligible release. ASD with TPGS showed significantly higher anticancer activity in 2D and multicellular 3D spheroids of colon carcinoma cell lines (HT-29 and HT-116). The outcomes of this research suggested that ASD with a pH dependent polymer is a promising strategy to improve solubility and an effective approach in colorectal cancer targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henis Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Siddhant Palekar
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Akanksha Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, USA.
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8
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Lin JY, Liu HJ, Wu Y, Jin JM, Zhou YD, Zhang H, Nagle DG, Chen HZ, Zhang WD, Luan X. Targeted Protein Degradation Technology and Nanomedicine: Powerful Allies against Cancer. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2207778. [PMID: 36693784 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) is an emerging therapeutic strategy with the potential of targeting undruggable pathogenic proteins. After the first proof-of-concept proteolysis-targeting chimeric (PROTAC) molecule was reported, the TPD field has entered a new era. In addition to PROTAC, numerous novel TPD strategies have emerged to expand the degradation landscape. However, their physicochemical properties and uncontrolled off-target side effects have limited their therapeutic efficacy, raising concerns regarding TPD delivery system. The combination of TPD and nanotechnology offers great promise in improving safety and therapeutic efficacy. This review provides an overview of novel TPD technologies, discusses their clinical applications, and highlights the trends and perspectives in TPD nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Yi Lin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hai-Jun Liu
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ye Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jin-Mei Jin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yu-Dong Zhou
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Liberal Arts, University of Mississippi, University-1848, Boston, MA, 38677, USA
| | - Hong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Dale G Nagle
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University-1848, Boston, MA, 38677, USA
| | - Hong-Zhuan Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Wei-Dong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
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9
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Li S, Chen T, Liu J, Zhang H, Li J, Wang Z, Shang G. PROTACs: Novel tools for improving immunotherapy in cancer. Cancer Lett 2023; 560:216128. [PMID: 36933781 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications (PTMs), such as phosphorylation, methylation, ubiquitination, and acetylation, are important in governing protein expression levels. Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are novel structures designed to target a protein of interest (POI) for ubiquitination and degradation, leading to the selective reduction in the expression levels of the POI. PROTACs have exhibited great promise due to their ability to target undruggable proteins, including several transcription factors. Recently, PROTACs have been characterized to improve anticancer immunotherapy via the regulation of specific proteins. In this review, we describe how the PROTACs target several molecules, including HDAC6, IDO1, EGFR, FoxM1, PD-L1, SHP2, HPK1, BCL-xL, BET proteins, NAMPT, and COX-1/2, to regulate immunotherapy in human cancers. PROTACs may provide potential treatment benefits by enhancing immunotherapy in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizhe Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
| | - Ting Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
| | - Jinxin Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
| | - He Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
| | - Jiatong Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Laboratory Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Anhui, 233030, China; The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China.
| | - Guanning Shang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
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10
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Li JW, Zheng G, Kaye FJ, Wu L. PROTAC therapy as a new targeted therapy for lung cancer. Mol Ther 2023; 31:647-656. [PMID: 36415148 PMCID: PMC10014230 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in molecular therapeutics, lung cancer is still a leading cause of cancer deaths. Currently, limited targeted therapy options and acquired drug resistance present significant barriers in the treatment of patients with lung cancer. New strategies in drug development, including those that take advantage of the intracellular ubiquitin-proteasome system to induce targeted protein degradation, have the potential to advance the field of personalized medicine for patients with lung cancer. Specifically, small molecule proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs), consisting of two ligands connected by a linker that bind to a target protein and an E3 ubiquitin ligase, have been developed against many cancer targets, providing promising opportunities for advanced lung cancer. In this review, we focus on the rationale for PROTAC therapy as a new targeted therapy and the current status of PROTAC development in lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer W Li
- Department of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Frederic J Kaye
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; UF Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
| | - Lizi Wu
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; UF Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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11
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Moon Y, Jeon SI, Shim MK, Kim K. Cancer-Specific Delivery of Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) and Their Application to Cancer Immunotherapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020411. [PMID: 36839734 PMCID: PMC9965039 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020411] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are rapidly emerging as a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer therapy by inducing the degradation of tumor-overexpressing oncogenic proteins. They can specifically catalyze the degradation of target oncogenic proteins by recruiting E3 ligases and utilizing the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Since their mode of action is universal, irreversible, recyclable, long-lasting, and applicable to 'undruggable' proteins, PROTACs are gradually replacing the role of conventional small molecular inhibitors. Moreover, their application areas are being expanded to cancer immunotherapy as various types of oncogenic proteins that are involved in immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments. However, poor water solubility and low cell permeability considerably restrict the pharmacokinetic (PK) property, which necessitates the use of appropriate delivery systems for cancer immunotherapy. In this review, the general characteristics, developmental status, and PK of PROTACs are first briefly covered. Next, recent studies on the application of various types of passive or active targeting delivery systems for PROTACs are introduced, and their effects on the PK and tumor-targeting ability of PROTACs are described. Finally, recent drug delivery systems of PROTACs for cancer immunotherapy are summarized. The adoption of an adequate delivery system for PROTAC is expected to accelerate the clinical translation of PROTACs, as well as improve its efficacy for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujeong Moon
- Department of Bioengineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Ik Jeon
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Woman’s University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Man Kyu Shim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwangmeyung Kim
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Woman’s University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence:
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12
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Liu X, Wang A, Shi Y, Dai M, Liu M, Cai HB. PROTACs in Epigenetic Cancer Therapy: Current Status and Future Opportunities. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031217. [PMID: 36770884 PMCID: PMC9919707 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The epigenetic regulation of gene functions has been proven to be strongly associated with the development and progression of cancer. Reprogramming the cancer epigenome landscape is one of the most promising target therapies in both treatments and in reversing drug resistance. Proteolytic targeted chimeras (PROTACs) are an emerging therapeutic modality for selective degradation via the native ubiquitin-proteasome system. Rapid advances in PROTACs have facilitated the exploration of targeting epigenetic proteins, a lot of PROTAC degraders have already been designed in the field of epigenetic cancer therapy, and PROTACs targeting epigenetic proteins can better exploit target druggability and improve the mechanistic understanding of the epigenetic regulation of cancer. Thus, this review focuses on the progress made in the development of PROTAC degraders and PROTAC drugs targeting epigenetics in cancer and discusses challenges and future opportunities for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuelian Liu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Anjin Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yuying Shi
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Mengyuan Dai
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan 430071, China
- Correspondence: (M.D.); (H.-B.C.)
| | - Miao Liu
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Hong-Bing Cai
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan 430071, China
- Correspondence: (M.D.); (H.-B.C.)
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13
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Saraswat AL, Vartak R, Hegazy R, Patel A, Patel K. Drug delivery challenges and formulation aspects of proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTACs). Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103387. [PMID: 36184017 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have been extensively explored for targeted proteasomal degradation of disease-related proteins with enormous potential in the treatment of intractable diseases. However, PROTACs are poorly soluble and permeable bulky molecules facing several bioavailability challenges irrespective of the route of administration. Our review lays out crucial challenges in the delivery of target protein degraders and nanoformulation approaches to overcome physicochemical and biological hurdles that can aid in transporting these target-protein degraders to the disease site. We have elaborated on the current formulation approaches and further highlighted the prospective delivery strategies that could be probed for disease-specific targeted delivery of PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya L Saraswat
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Richa Vartak
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Rehab Hegazy
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA; Pharmacology Department, Medical Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Akanksha Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
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Patel A, Saraswat A, Patel H, Chen ZS, Patel K. Palmitoyl Carnitine-Anchored Nanoliposomes for Neovasculature-Specific Delivery of Gemcitabine Elaidate to Treat Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010182. [PMID: 36612178 PMCID: PMC9818435 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010182] [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: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Being the fourth most fatal malignancy worldwide, pancreatic cancer is on track to become the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States by 2030. Gemcitabine is a first-line chemotherapeutic agent for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Gemcitabine Elaidate (Gem Elaidate) is a lipophilic derivative which allows hENT1-independent intracellular delivery of gemcitabine and better pharmacokinetics and entrapment in a nanocarrier. Cancer cells and neovasculature are negatively charged compared to healthy cells. Palmitoyl-DL-carnitine chloride (PC) is a Protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor which also provides a cationic surface charge to nanoliposomes for targeting tumor neovasculature and augmented anticancer potency. The objectives of our study are: (a) to develop and characterize a PKC inhibitor-anchored Gem Elaidate-loaded PEGylated nanoliposome (PGPLs) and (b) to investigate the anticancer activity of Gem Elaidate and PGPLs in 2D and 3D models of pancreatic cancer. The optimized PGPLs resulted in a particle size of 80 ± 2.31 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.15 ± 0.05 and a ζ-potential of +31.6 ± 3.54 mV, with a 93.25% encapsulation efficiency of Gem Elaidate in PGPLs. Our results demonstrate higher cellular uptake, inhibition in migration, as well as angiogenesis potential and significant apoptosis induced by PGPLs in 3D multicellular tumor spheroids of pancreatic cancer cells. Hence, PGPLs could be an effective and novel nanoformulation for the neovasculature-specific delivery of Gemcitabine Elaidate to treat PDAC.
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Regulation of programmed cell death by Brd4. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:1059. [PMID: 36539410 PMCID: PMC9767942 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05505-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic factor Brd4 has emerged as a key regulator of cancer cell proliferation. Targeted inhibition of Brd4 suppresses growth and induces apoptosis of various cancer cells. In addition to apoptosis, Brd4 has also been shown to regulate several other forms of programmed cell death (PCD), including autophagy, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis, with different biological outcomes. PCD plays key roles in development and tissue homeostasis by eliminating unnecessary or detrimental cells. Dysregulation of PCD is associated with various human diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative and infectious diseases. In this review, we discussed some recent findings on how Brd4 actively regulates different forms of PCD and the therapeutic potentials of targeting Brd4 in PCD-related human diseases. A better understanding of PCD regulation would provide not only new insights into pathophysiological functions of PCD but also provide new avenues for therapy by targeting Brd4-regulated PCD.
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