1
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Hsia T, Chen Y. RNA-encapsulating lipid nanoparticles in cancer immunotherapy: From pre-clinical studies to clinical trials. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 197:114234. [PMID: 38401743 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanoparticle-based delivery systems such as RNA-encapsulating lipid nanoparticles (RNA LNPs) have dramatically advanced in function and capacity over the last few decades. RNA LNPs boast of a diverse array of external and core configurations that enhance targeted delivery and prolong circulatory retention, advancing therapeutic outcomes. Particularly within the realm of cancer immunotherapies, RNA LNPs are increasingly gaining prominence. Pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo studies have laid a robust foundation for new and ongoing clinical trials that are actively enrolling patients for RNA LNP cancer immunotherapy. This review explores RNA LNPs, starting from their core composition to their external membrane formulation, set against a backdrop of recent clinical breakthroughs. We further elucidate the LNP delivery avenues, broach the prevailing challenges, and contemplate the future perspectives of RNA LNP-mediated immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffaney Hsia
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
| | - Yunching Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan; Department of Chemistry, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
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2
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Mahmoudian F, Ahmari A, Shabani S, Sadeghi B, Fahimirad S, Fattahi F. Aptamers as an approach to targeted cancer therapy. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:108. [PMID: 38493153 PMCID: PMC10943855 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03295-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Conventional cancer treatments can cause serious side effects because they are not specific to cancer cells and can damage healthy cells. Aptamers often are single-stranded oligonucleotides arranged in a unique architecture, allowing them to bind specifically to target sites. This feature makes them an ideal choice for targeted therapeutics. They are typically produced through the systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) and undergo extensive pharmacological revision to modify their affinity, specificity, and therapeutic half-life. Aptamers can act as drugs themselves, directly inhibiting tumor cells. Alternatively, they can be used in targeted drug delivery systems to transport drugs directly to tumor cells, minimizing toxicity to healthy cells. In this review, we will discuss the latest and most advanced approaches to using aptamers for cancer treatment, particularly targeted therapy overcoming resistance to conventional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Mahmoudian
- Cancer Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Ayatollah-Khansari Hospital, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Azin Ahmari
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Ayatollah-Khansari Hospital, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Shiva Shabani
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Ayatollah-Khansari Hospital, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Bahman Sadeghi
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Ayatollah-Khansari Hospital, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Shohreh Fahimirad
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.
| | - Fahimeh Fattahi
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Ayatollah-Khansari Hospital, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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3
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Romei MG, Leonard B, Katz ZB, Le D, Yang Y, Day ES, Koo CW, Sharma P, Bevers Iii J, Kim I, Dai H, Farahi F, Lin M, Shaw AS, Nakamura G, Sockolosky JT, Lazar GA. i-shaped antibody engineering enables conformational tuning of biotherapeutic receptor agonists. Nat Commun 2024; 15:642. [PMID: 38245524 PMCID: PMC10799922 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-44985-x] [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: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The ability to leverage antibodies to agonize disease relevant biological pathways has tremendous potential for clinical investigation. Yet while antibodies have been successful as antagonists, immune mediators, and targeting agents, they are not readily effective at recapitulating the biology of natural ligands. Among the important determinants of antibody agonist activity is the geometry of target receptor engagement. Here, we describe an engineering approach inspired by a naturally occurring Fab-Fab homotypic interaction that constrains IgG in a unique i-shaped conformation. i-shaped antibody (iAb) engineering enables potent intrinsic agonism of five tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) targets. When applied to bispecific antibodies against the heterodimeric IL-2 receptor pair, constrained bispecific IgG formats recapitulate IL-2 agonist activity. iAb engineering provides a tool to tune agonist antibody function and this work provides a framework for the development of intrinsic antibody agonists with the potential for generalization across broad receptor classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew G Romei
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Brandon Leonard
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Zachary B Katz
- Department of Research Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Le
- Department of Microchemistry, Proteomic, Lipidomics, and Next Generation Sequencing, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yanli Yang
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Eric S Day
- Department of Pharma Technical Development, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Christopher W Koo
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Preeti Sharma
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jack Bevers Iii
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ingrid Kim
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Huiguang Dai
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Farzam Farahi
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - May Lin
- Department of Protein Chemistry, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrey S Shaw
- Department of Research Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gerald Nakamura
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Greg A Lazar
- Department of Antibody Engineering, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
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4
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Teodori L, Omer M, Kjems J. RNA nanostructures for targeted drug delivery and imaging. RNA Biol 2024; 21:1-19. [PMID: 38555519 PMCID: PMC10984137 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2024.2328440] [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] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The RNA molecule plays a pivotal role in many biological processes by relaying genetic information, regulating gene expression, and serving as molecular machines and catalyzers. This inherent versatility of RNA has fueled significant advancements in the field of RNA nanotechnology, driving the engineering of complex nanoscale architectures toward biomedical applications, including targeted drug delivery and bioimaging. RNA polymers, serving as building blocks, offer programmability and predictability of Watson-Crick base pairing, as well as non-canonical base pairing, for the construction of nanostructures with high precision and stoichiometry. Leveraging the ease of chemical modifications to protect the RNA from degradation, researchers have developed highly functional and biocompatible RNA architectures and integrated them into preclinical studies for the delivery of payloads and imaging agents. This review offers an educational introduction to the use of RNA as a biopolymer in the design of multifunctional nanostructures applied to targeted delivery in vivo, summarizing physical and biological barriers along with strategies to overcome them. Furthermore, we highlight the most recent progress in the development of both small and larger RNA nanostructures, with a particular focus on imaging reagents and targeted cancer therapeutics in pre-clinical models and provide insights into the prospects of this rapidly evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Teodori
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
- Center for Cellular Signal Patterns (CellPAT), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center for RNA Therapeutics towards Metabolic Diseases (RNA-META), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Marjan Omer
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
- Center for Cellular Signal Patterns (CellPAT), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Kjems
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
- Center for Cellular Signal Patterns (CellPAT), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center for RNA Therapeutics towards Metabolic Diseases (RNA-META), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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5
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Wang F, Gu Z, Yin Z, Zhang W, Bai L, Su J. Cell unit-inspired natural nano-based biomaterials as versatile building blocks for bone/cartilage regeneration. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:293. [PMID: 37620914 PMCID: PMC10463900 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02003-0] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The regeneration of weight-bearing bone defects and critical-sized cartilage defects remains a significant challenge. A wide range of nano-biomaterials are available for the treatment of bone/cartilage defects. However, their poor compatibility and biodegradability pose challenges to the practical applications of these nano-based biomaterials. Natural biomaterials inspired by the cell units (e.g., nucleic acids and proteins), have gained increasing attention in recent decades due to their versatile functionality, compatibility, biodegradability, and great potential for modification, combination, and hybridization. In the field of bone/cartilage regeneration, natural nano-based biomaterials have presented an unparalleled role in providing optimal cues and microenvironments for cell growth and differentiation. In this review, we systematically summarize the versatile building blocks inspired by the cell unit used as natural nano-based biomaterials in bone/cartilage regeneration, including nucleic acids, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and membranes. In addition, the opportunities and challenges of natural nano-based biomaterials for the future use of bone/cartilage regeneration are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuxiao Wang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Zhengrong Gu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Baoshan Luodian Hospital, Baoshan District, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhifeng Yin
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Zhongye Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Wencai Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Guangzhou, China.
| | - Long Bai
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China.
| | - Jiacan Su
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China.
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6
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Sun L, Shen F, Qu Y, Liu Z. Functional DNA as a Molecular Tool in Regulating Immunoreceptor-Ligand Interactions. JACS AU 2023; 3:1820-1834. [PMID: 37502159 PMCID: PMC10369416 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.3c00291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
During immune responses, activating ligands would trigger dynamic spatiotemporal organization of immunoreceptors at the cell interface, governing the fate and effector functions of immune cells. To understand the biophysical mechanisms of immunoreceptor signaling, diverse tools, including DNA technologies, have been developed to manipulate receptor-ligand interactions during the immune activation process. With great capability in the controllable assembly of biomolecules, functional DNA-based precise arrangement of immune molecules at cell interfaces has provided a powerful means in revealing the principles of immunoreceptor triggering, even at the single-molecule level. In addition, precisely regulating immunoreceptor-ligand interactions with functional DNA has been applied in immunotherapies of major diseases. This Perspective will focus on the recent advances in exploring immunoreceptor signaling with functional DNA as the molecular tool as well as the applications of functional DNA mediated regulation of immunoreceptor activation. We also outline the challenges and opportunities of applying functional DNA in immune modulation and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lele Sun
- Institute
of Materiobiology, Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Fengyun Shen
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai
Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 201240, China
| | - Yanfei Qu
- Institute
of Materiobiology, Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Zhuang Liu
- Institute
of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Lab
Carbon Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
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7
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Chen Y, Tang R, Xiong W, Zhang F, Wang N, Xie B, Cao J, Chen Z, Ma C. RNA aptamers with specific binding affinity to CD40 (CD40Apt) represents a promising antagonist of the CD40-CD40L signaling for thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) treatment in mouse. J Transl Med 2023; 21:396. [PMID: 37331977 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04217-0] [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: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) is the most common autoimmune inflammatory diseases of the orbit. The CD40-CD40L pathway has been regarded as a potential molecular mechanism contributing to the development and progression of TAO, and RNA aptamers with specific binding affinity to CD40 (CD40Apt) represents a promising inhibitor of the CD40-CD40L signaling in TAO treatment. In this study, CD40Apt was confirmed to specifically recognize mouse CD40-positive ortibtal fibroblast. Mouse orbital fibroblasts were isolated from TAO mice model orbital tissues and validated. In TGF-β-induced orbital fibroblast activation model in vitro, CD40Apt administration inhibited TGF-β-induced cell viability, decreased TGF-β-induced α-SMA, Collagen I, Timp-1, and vimentin levels, and suppressed TGF-β-induced phosphorylation of Erk, p38, JNK, and NF-κB. In TAO mice model in vivo, CD40Apt caused no significant differences to the body weight of mice; furthermore, CD40Apt improved the eyelid broadening, ameliorated inflammatory infiltration and the hyperplasia in orbital muscle and adipose tissues in model mice. Concerning orbital fibroblast activation, CD40Apt reduced the levels of CD40, collagen I, TGF-β, and α-SMA in orbital muscle and adipose tissues of model mice. Finally, CD40Apt administration significantly suppressed Erk, p38, JNK, and NF-κB phosphorylation. In conclusion, CD40Apt, specifically binds to CD40 proteins in their natural state on the cell surface with high affinity, could suppress mouse orbital fibroblast activation, therefore improving TAO in mice model through the CD40 and downstream signaling pathways. CD40Apt represents a promising antagonist of the CD40-CD40L signaling for TAO treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Renhong Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Nuo Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bingyu Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiamin Cao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhuokun Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chen Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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8
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Sun L, Mailliot J, Schaffitzel C. Nonsense-Mediated mRNA Decay Factor Functions in Human Health and Disease. Biomedicines 2023; 11:722. [PMID: 36979701 PMCID: PMC10045457 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) is a cellular surveillance mechanism that degrades mRNAs with a premature stop codon, avoiding the synthesis of C-terminally truncated proteins. In addition to faulty mRNAs, NMD recognises ~10% of endogenous transcripts in human cells and downregulates their expression. The up-frameshift proteins are core NMD factors and are conserved from yeast to human in structure and function. In mammals, NMD diversified into different pathways that target different mRNAs employing additional NMD factors. Here, we review our current understanding of molecular mechanisms and cellular roles of NMD pathways and the involvement of more specialised NMD factors. We describe the consequences of mutations in NMD factors leading to neurodevelopmental diseases, and the role of NMD in cancer. We highlight strategies of RNA viruses to evade recognition and decay by the NMD machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Sun
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Justine Mailliot
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Christiane Schaffitzel
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
- Bristol Engineering Biology Centre BrisEngBio, 24 Tyndall Ave, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK
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9
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Panigaj M, Skelly E, Beasock D, Marriott I, Johnson MB, Salotti J, Afonin KA. Therapeutic immunomodulation by rationally designed nucleic acids and nucleic acid nanoparticles. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1053550. [PMID: 36798121 PMCID: PMC9927404 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1053550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system has evolved to defend organisms against exogenous threats such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites by distinguishing between "self" and "non-self". In addition, it guards us against other diseases, such as cancer, by detecting and responding to transformed and senescent cells. However, for survival and propagation, the altered cells and invading pathogens often employ a wide range of mechanisms to avoid, inhibit, or manipulate the immunorecognition. As such, the development of new modes of therapeutic intervention to augment protective and prevent harmful immune responses is desirable. Nucleic acids are biopolymers essential for all forms of life and, therefore, delineating the complex defensive mechanisms developed against non-self nucleic acids can offer an exciting avenue for future biomedicine. Nucleic acid technologies have already established numerous approaches in therapy and biotechnology; recently, rationally designed nucleic acids nanoparticles (NANPs) with regulated physiochemical properties and biological activities has expanded our repertoire of therapeutic options. When compared to conventional therapeutic nucleic acids (TNAs), NANP technologies can be rendered more beneficial for synchronized delivery of multiple TNAs with defined stabilities, immunological profiles, and therapeutic functions. This review highlights several recent advances and possible future directions of TNA and NANP technologies that are under development for controlled immunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Panigaj
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States.,Institute of Biology & Ecology, Faculty of Science, Pavol Jozef Safarik University in Kosice, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Elizabeth Skelly
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Damian Beasock
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Ian Marriott
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - M Brittany Johnson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Jacqueline Salotti
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Kirill A Afonin
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
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10
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Hu X, Zhang D, Zeng Z, Huang L, Lin X, Hong S. Aptamer-Based Probes for Cancer Diagnostics and Treatment. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12111937. [PMID: 36431072 PMCID: PMC9695321 DOI: 10.3390/life12111937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA oligomers that have the ability to generate unique and diverse tertiary structures that bind to cognate molecules with high specificity. In recent years, aptamer researches have witnessed a huge surge, owing to its unique properties, such as high specificity and binding affinity, low immunogenicity and toxicity, and simplicity of synthesis with negligible batch-to-batch variation. Aptamers may bind to targets, such as various cancer biomarkers, making them applicable for a wide range of cancer diagnosis and treatment. In cancer diagnostic applications, aptamers are used as molecular probes instead of antibodies. They have the potential to detect various cancer-associated biomarkers. For cancer therapeutic purposes, aptamers can serve as therapeutic or delivery agents. The chemical stabilization and modification strategies for aptamers may expand their serum half-life and shelf life. However, aptamer-based probes for cancer diagnosis and therapy still face several challenges for successful clinical translation. A deeper understanding of nucleic acid chemistry, tissue distribution, and pharmacokinetics is required in the development of aptamer-based probes. This review summarizes their application in cancer diagnostics and treatments based on different localization of target biomarkers, as well as current challenges and future prospects.
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11
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Gao F, Yin J, Chen Y, Guo C, Hu H, Su J. Recent advances in aptamer-based targeted drug delivery systems for cancer therapy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:972933. [PMID: 36051580 PMCID: PMC9424825 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.972933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The past decade has become an important strategy in precision medicine for the targeted therapy of many diseases, expecially various types of cancer. As a promising targeted element, nucleic acid aptamers are single-stranded functional oligonucleotides which have specific abilities to bind with various target molecules ranging from small molecules to entire organisms. They are often named ‘chemical antibody’ and have aroused extensive interest in diverse clinical studies on account of their advantages, such as considerable biostability, versatile chemical modification, low immunogenicity and quick tissue penetration. Thus, aptamer-embedded drug delivery systems offer an unprecedented opportunity in bioanalysis and biomedicine. In this short review, we endeavor to discuss the recent advances in aptamer-based targeted drug delivery platforms for cancer therapy. Some perspectives on the advantages, challenges and opportunities are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Gao
- Institude of Translation Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianhui Yin
- Institude of Translation Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Changyong Guo
- Institude of Translation Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Honggang Hu
- Institude of Translation Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jiacan Su, ; Honggang Hu,
| | - Jiacan Su
- Institude of Translation Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jiacan Su, ; Honggang Hu,
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12
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Tu T, Huan S, Ke G, Zhang X. Functional Xeno Nucleic Acids for Biomedical Application. Chem Res Chin Univ 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40242-021-2186-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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13
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Tu T, Huan S, Ke G, Zhang X. Functional Xeno Nucleic Acids for Biomedical Application. Chem Res Chin Univ 2022:1-7. [PMID: 35814030 PMCID: PMC9253239 DOI: 10.1007/s40242-022-2186-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Functional nucleic acids(FNAs) refer to a type of oligonucleotides with functions over the traditional genetic roles of nucleic acids, which have been widely applied in screening, sensing and imaging fields. However, the potential application of FNAs in biomedical field is still restricted by the unsatisfactory stability, biocompatibility, biodistribution and immunity of natural nucleic acids(DNA/RNA). Xeno nucleic acids(XNAs) are a kind of nucleic acid analogues with chemically modified sugar groups that possess improved biological properties, including improved biological stability, increased binding affinity, reduced immune responses, and enhanced cell penetration or tissue specificity. In the last two decades, scientists have made great progress in the research of functional xeno nucleic acids, which makes it an emerging attractive biomedical application material. In this review, we summarized the design of functional xeno nucleic acids and their applications in the biomedical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082 P. R. China
| | - Shuangyan Huan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082 P. R. China
| | - Guoliang Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082 P. R. China
| | - Xiaobing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082 P. R. China
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14
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Thomas BJ, Porciani D, Burke DH. Cancer immunomodulation using bispecific aptamers. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 27:894-915. [PMID: 35141049 PMCID: PMC8803965 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Evasion of immune destruction is a major hallmark of cancer. Recent US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals of various immunomodulating therapies underline the important role that reprogramming the immune system can play in combating this disease. However, a wide range of side effects still limit the therapeutic potential of immunomodulators, suggesting a need for more precise reagents with negligible off-target and on-target/off-tumor effects. Aptamers are single-chained oligonucleotides that bind their targets with high specificity and affinity owing to their three-dimensional (3D) structures, and they are one potential way to address this need. In particular, bispecific aptamers (bsApts) have been shown to induce artificial immune synapses that promote T cell activation and subsequent tumor cell lysis in various in vitro and in vivo pre-clinical models. We discuss these advances here, along with gaps in bsApt biology at both the cellular and resident tissue levels that should be addressed to accelerate their translation into the clinic. The broad application, minimal production cost, and relative lack of immunogenicity of bsApts give them some ideal qualities for manipulating the immune system. Building upon lessons from other novel therapies, bsApts could soon provide clinicians with an immunomodulating toolbox that is not only potent and efficacious but exercises a wide therapeutic index.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J. Thomas
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - David Porciani
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Donald H. Burke
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
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15
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Wang F, Li P, Chu HC, Lo PK. Nucleic Acids and Their Analogues for Biomedical Applications. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12020093. [PMID: 35200353 PMCID: PMC8869748 DOI: 10.3390/bios12020093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acids are emerging as powerful and functional biomaterials due to their molecular recognition ability, programmability, and ease of synthesis and chemical modification. Various types of nucleic acids have been used as gene regulation tools or therapeutic agents for the treatment of human diseases with genetic disorders. Nucleic acids can also be used to develop sensing platforms for detecting ions, small molecules, proteins, and cells. Their performance can be improved through integration with other organic or inorganic nanomaterials. To further enhance their biological properties, various chemically modified nucleic acid analogues can be generated by modifying their phosphodiester backbone, sugar moiety, nucleobase, or combined sites. Alternatively, using nucleic acids as building blocks for self-assembly of highly ordered nanostructures would enhance their biological stability and cellular uptake efficiency. In this review, we will focus on the development and biomedical applications of structural and functional natural nucleic acids, as well as the chemically modified nucleic acid analogues over the past ten years. The recent progress in the development of functional nanomaterials based on self-assembled DNA-based platforms for gene regulation, biosensing, drug delivery, and therapy will also be presented. We will then summarize with a discussion on the advanced development of nucleic acid research, highlight some of the challenges faced and propose suggestions for further improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (F.W.); (P.L.); (H.C.C.)
| | - Pan Li
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (F.W.); (P.L.); (H.C.C.)
| | - Hoi Ching Chu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (F.W.); (P.L.); (H.C.C.)
| | - Pik Kwan Lo
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (F.W.); (P.L.); (H.C.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Care, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518057, China
- Correspondence:
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16
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CD40 stimulation as a molecular adjuvant for cancer vaccines and other immunotherapies. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:14-22. [PMID: 34282297 PMCID: PMC8752810 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00734-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The substantial advances attained by checkpoint blockade immunotherapies have driven an expansion in the approaches used to promote T cell access to the tumor microenvironment to provide targets for checkpoint immunotherapy. Inherent in any T cell response to a tumor antigen is the capacity of dendritic cells to initiate and support such responses. Here, the rationale and early immunobiology of CD40 as a master regulator of dendritic cell activation is reviewed, with further contextualization and appreciation for the role of CD40 stimulation not only in cancer vaccines but also in other contemporary immune-oncology approaches.
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17
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Krissanaprasit A, Key CM, Pontula S, LaBean TH. Self-Assembling Nucleic Acid Nanostructures Functionalized with Aptamers. Chem Rev 2021; 121:13797-13868. [PMID: 34157230 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c01332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Researchers have worked for many decades to master the rules of biomolecular design that would allow artificial biopolymer complexes to self-assemble and function similarly to the diverse biochemical constructs displayed in natural biological systems. The rules of nucleic acid assembly (dominated by Watson-Crick base-pairing) have been less difficult to understand and manipulate than the more complicated rules of protein folding. Therefore, nucleic acid nanotechnology has advanced more quickly than de novo protein design, and recent years have seen amazing progress in DNA and RNA design. By combining structural motifs with aptamers that act as affinity handles and add powerful molecular recognition capabilities, nucleic acid-based self-assemblies represent a diverse toolbox for use by bioengineers to create molecules with potentially revolutionary biological activities. In this review, we focus on the development of self-assembling nucleic acid nanostructures that are functionalized with nucleic acid aptamers and their great potential in wide ranging application areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhichart Krissanaprasit
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - Carson M Key
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Sahil Pontula
- Department of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States.,Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Thomas H LaBean
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
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18
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Cheruiyot A, Li S, Nonavinkere Srivatsan S, Ahmed T, Chen Y, Lemacon DS, Li Y, Yang Z, Wadugu BA, Warner WA, Pruett-Miller SM, Obeng EA, Link DC, He D, Xiao F, Wang X, Bailis JM, Walter MJ, You Z. Nonsense-Mediated RNA Decay Is a Unique Vulnerability of Cancer Cells Harboring SF3B1 or U2AF1 Mutations. Cancer Res 2021; 81:4499-4513. [PMID: 34215620 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-4016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD) is recognized as an RNA surveillance pathway that targets aberrant mRNAs with premature translation termination codons (PTC) for degradation, however, its molecular mechanisms and roles in health and disease remain incompletely understood. In this study, we developed a novel reporter system to accurately measure NMD activity in individual cells. A genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screen using this reporter system identified novel NMD-promoting factors, including multiple components of the SF3B complex and other U2 spliceosome factors. Interestingly, cells with mutations in the spliceosome genes SF3B1 and U2AF1, which are commonly found in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and cancers, have overall attenuated NMD activity. Compared with wild-type (WT) cells, SF3B1- and U2AF1-mutant cells were more sensitive to NMD inhibition, a phenotype that is accompanied by elevated DNA replication obstruction, DNA damage, and chromosomal instability. Remarkably, the sensitivity of spliceosome mutant cells to NMD inhibition was rescued by overexpression of RNase H1, which removes R-loops in the genome. Together, these findings shed new light on the functional interplay between NMD and RNA splicing and suggest a novel synthetic lethal strategy for the treatment of MDS and cancers with spliceosome mutations. SIGNIFICANCE: This study has developed a novel NMD reporter system and identified a potential therapeutic approach of targeting the NMD pathway to treat cancer with spliceosome gene mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigael Cheruiyot
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Shan Li
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Sridhar Nonavinkere Srivatsan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University School in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Tanzir Ahmed
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University School in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Yuhao Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Delphine S Lemacon
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri.,Clinical Biobank, The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Zheng Yang
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri.,Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Brian A Wadugu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University School in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Wayne A Warner
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University School in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Shondra M Pruett-Miller
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Esther A Obeng
- Molecular Oncology Division, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Daniel C Link
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University School in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Dalin He
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fei Xiao
- Clinical Biobank, The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Xiaowei Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | | | - Matthew J Walter
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University School in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Zhongsheng You
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri.
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19
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Roy D, Pascher A, Juratli MA, Sporn JC. The Potential of Aptamer-Mediated Liquid Biopsy for Early Detection of Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115601. [PMID: 34070509 PMCID: PMC8199038 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The early detection of cancer favors a greater chance of curative treatment and long-term survival. Exciting new technologies have been developed that can help to catch the disease early. Liquid biopsy is a promising non-invasive tool to detect cancer, even at an early stage, as well as to continuously monitor disease progression and treatment efficacy. Various methods have been implemented to isolate and purify bio-analytes in liquid biopsy specimens. Aptamers are short oligonucleotides consisting of either DNA or RNA that are capable of binding to target molecules with high specificity. Due to their unique properties, they are considered promising recognition ligands for the early detection of cancer by liquid biopsy. A variety of circulating targets have been isolated with high affinity and specificity by facile modification and affinity regulation of the aptamers. In this review, we discuss recent progress in aptamer-mediated liquid biopsy for cancer detection, its associated challenges, and its future potential for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhruvajyoti Roy
- Helio Health, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-949-8722383
| | - Andreas Pascher
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (A.P.); (M.A.J.); (J.C.S.)
| | - Mazen A. Juratli
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (A.P.); (M.A.J.); (J.C.S.)
| | - Judith C. Sporn
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (A.P.); (M.A.J.); (J.C.S.)
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20
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Recent Progress and Opportunities for Nucleic Acid Aptamers. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11030193. [PMID: 33671039 PMCID: PMC7997341 DOI: 10.3390/life11030193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Coined three decades ago, the term aptamer and directed evolution have now reached their maturity. The concept that nucleic acid could modulate the activity of target protein as ligand emerged from basic science studies of viruses. Aptamers are short nucleic acid sequences capable of specific, high-affinity molecular binding, which allow for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Compared to traditional antibodies, aptamers have several advantages, including small size, flexible structure, good biocompatibility, and low immunogenicity. In vitro selection method is used to isolate aptamers that are specific for a desired target from a randomized oligonucleotide library. The first aptamer drug, Macugen, was approved by FDA in 2004, which was accompanied by many studies and clinical investigations on various targets and diseases. Despite much promise, most aptamers have failed to meet the requisite safety and efficacy standards in human clinical trials. Amid these setbacks, the emergence of novel technologies and recent advances in aptamer and systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) design are fueling hope in this field. The unique properties of aptamer are gaining renewed interest in an era of COVID-19. The binding performance of an aptamer and reproducibility are still the key issues in tackling current hurdles in clinical translation. A thorough analysis of the aptamer binding under varying conditions and the conformational dynamics is warranted. Here, the challenges and opportunities of aptamers are reviewed with recent progress.
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21
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Yunn NO, Park M, Park S, Lee J, Noh J, Shin E, Ryu SH. A hotspot for enhancing insulin receptor activation revealed by a conformation-specific allosteric aptamer. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:700-712. [PMID: 33410883 PMCID: PMC7826266 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa1247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides that bind to a specific target with high affinity, and are widely applied in biomedical diagnostics and drug development. However, the use of aptamers has largely been limited to simple binders or inhibitors that interfere with the function of a target protein. Here, we show that an aptamer can also act as a positive allosteric modulator that enhances the activation of a receptor by stabilizing the binding of a ligand to that receptor. We developed an aptamer, named IR-A43, which binds to the insulin receptor, and confirmed that IR-A43 and insulin bind to the insulin receptor with mutual positive cooperativity. IR-A43 alone is inactive, but, in the presence of insulin, it potentiates autophosphorylation and downstream signaling of the insulin receptor. By using the species-specific activity of IR-A43 at the human insulin receptor, we demonstrate that residue Q272 in the cysteine-rich domain is directly involved in the insulin-enhancing activity of IR-A43. Therefore, we propose that the region containing residue Q272 is a hotspot that can be used to enhance insulin receptor activation. Moreover, our study implies that aptamers are promising reagents for the development of allosteric modulators that discriminate a specific conformation of a target receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na-Oh Yunn
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Mangeun Park
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongeun Park
- Postech Biotech Center, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Jimin Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongeun Noh
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Euisu Shin
- Aptamer Sciences, Inc., Seongnam 13605, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Ho Ryu
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea.,School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
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22
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Fu Z, Xiang J. Aptamers, the Nucleic Acid Antibodies, in Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082793. [PMID: 32316469 PMCID: PMC7215806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The arrival of the monoclonal antibody (mAb) technology in the 1970s brought with it the hope of conquering cancers to the medical community. However, mAbs, on the whole, did not achieve the expected wonder in cancer therapy although they do have demonstrated successfulness in the treatment of a few types of cancers. In 1990, another technology of making biomolecules capable of specific binding appeared. This technique, systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX), can make aptamers, single-stranded DNAs or RNAs that bind targets with high specificity and affinity. Aptamers have some advantages over mAbs in therapeutic uses particularly because they have little or no immunogenicity, which means the feasibility of repeated use and fewer side effects. In this review, the general properties of the aptamer, the advantages and limitations of aptamers, the principle and procedure of aptamer production with SELEX, particularly the undergoing studies in aptamers for cancer therapy, and selected anticancer aptamers that have entered clinical trials or are under active investigations are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoying Fu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Yanan University, Yanan 716000, China
- Correspondence: (Z.F.); (J.X.)
| | - Jim Xiang
- Division of Oncology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SA S7N 4H4, Canada
- Correspondence: (Z.F.); (J.X.)
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23
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Ueki R, Uchida S, Kanda N, Yamada N, Ueki A, Akiyama M, Toh K, Cabral H, Sando S. A chemically unmodified agonistic DNA with growth factor functionality for in vivo therapeutic application. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaay2801. [PMID: 32270033 PMCID: PMC7112757 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aay2801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Although growth factors have great therapeutic potential because of their regenerative functions, they often have intrinsic drawbacks, such as low thermal stability and high production cost. Oligonucleotides have recently emerged as promising chemical entities for designing synthetic alternatives to growth factors. However, their applications in vivo have been recognized as a challenge because of their susceptibility to nucleases and limited distribution to a target tissue. Here, we present the first example of oligonucleotide-based growth factor mimetics that exerts therapeutic effects at a target tissue after systemic injection. The aptamer was designed to dimerize a growth factor receptor for its activation and mitigated the progression of Fas-induced fulminant hepatitis in a mouse model. This unprecedented functionality of the aptamer can be reasonably explained by its high nuclease stability and migration to the liver parenchyma. These mechanistic analyses provided insights for the successful application of aptamer-based receptor agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Ueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Satoshi Uchida
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
- Innovation Center of NanoMedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, 3-25-14 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki 210-0821, Japan
| | - Naoto Kanda
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Naoki Yamada
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Ayaka Ueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Momoko Akiyama
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Kazuko Toh
- Innovation Center of NanoMedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, 3-25-14 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki 210-0821, Japan
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Sando
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
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24
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Mamet N, Amir Y, Lavi E, Bassali L, Harari G, Rusinek I, Skalka N, Debby E, Greenberg M, Zamir A, Paz A, Reiss N, Loewenthal G, Avivi I, Shimoni A, Neev G, Abu-Horowitz A, Bachelet I. Discovery of tumoricidal DNA oligonucleotides by response-directed in vitro evolution. Commun Biol 2020; 3:29. [PMID: 31941992 PMCID: PMC6962221 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-0756-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug discovery is challenged by ineffectiveness of drugs against variable and evolving diseases, and adverse effects due to poor selectivity. We describe a robust platform which potentially addresses these limitations. The platform enables rapid discovery of DNA oligonucleotides evolved in vitro for exerting specific and selective biological responses in target cells. The process operates without a priori target knowledge (mutations, biomarkers, etc). We report the discovery of oligonucleotides with direct, selective cytotoxicity towards cell lines, as well as patient-derived solid and hematological tumors. A specific oligonucleotide termed E8, induced selective apoptosis in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. Polyethylene glycol-modified E8 exhibited favorable biodistribution in animals, persisting in tumors up to 48-hours after injection. E8 inhibited tumors by 50% within 10 days of treatment in patient-derived xenograft mice, and was effective in ex vivo organ cultures from chemotherapy-resistant TNBC patients. These findings highlight a drug discovery model which is target-tailored and on-demand. Noam Mamet et al. describe a platform for rapid de novo discovery of DNA oligonucleotides that directly and selectively induce apoptosis in cancer cells. They report target-tailored discovery of tumoricidal oligonucleotides against tumor cell lines as well as patient-derived tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noam Mamet
- Augmanity, Rehovot, Israel.,Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Yaniv Amir
- Aummune, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Erez Lavi
- Aummune, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | | | | | - Nir Skalka
- Aummune, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Elinor Debby
- Aummune, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | | | - Anastasia Paz
- Aummune, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Neria Reiss
- Aummune, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Irit Avivi
- Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Avichai Shimoni
- BMT Department, Division of Hematology, Sheba Medical Center Tel Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Guy Neev
- Aummune, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
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25
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Dinis Ano Bom AP, da Costa Neves PC, Bonacossa de Almeida CE, Silva D, Missailidis S. Aptamers as Delivery Agents of siRNA and Chimeric Formulations for the Treatment of Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:pharmaceutics11120684. [PMID: 31888119 PMCID: PMC6956146 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11120684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Both aptamers and siRNA technologies have now reached maturity, and both have been validated with a product in the market. However, although pegaptanib reached the market some time ago, there has been a slow process for new aptamers to follow. Today, some 40 aptamers are in the market, but many in combination with siRNAs, in the form of specific delivery agents. This combination offers the potential to explore the high affinity and specificity of aptamers, the silencing power of siRNA, and, at times, the cytotoxicity of chemotherapy molecules in powerful combinations that promise to delivery new and potent therapies. In this review, we report new developments in the field, following up from our previous work, more specifically on the use of aptamers as delivery agents of siRNA in nanoparticle formulations, alone or in combination with chemotherapy, for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Dinis Ano Bom
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos (Bio-Manguinhos), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Av. Brasil, 4365-Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro/RJ CEP 21040-900, Brazil; (A.P.D.A.B.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (D.S.)
| | - Patrícia Cristina da Costa Neves
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos (Bio-Manguinhos), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Av. Brasil, 4365-Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro/RJ CEP 21040-900, Brazil; (A.P.D.A.B.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (D.S.)
| | - Carlos Eduardo Bonacossa de Almeida
- Laboratório de Radiobiologia, Divisão de Física Médica, Instituto de Radioproteção e Dosimetria, Comissão Nacional de Energia Nuclear. Av. Salvador Allende S/N., Rio de Janeiro/RJ CEP 22783-127, Brazil;
| | - Dilson Silva
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos (Bio-Manguinhos), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Av. Brasil, 4365-Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro/RJ CEP 21040-900, Brazil; (A.P.D.A.B.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (D.S.)
| | - Sotiris Missailidis
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos (Bio-Manguinhos), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Av. Brasil, 4365-Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro/RJ CEP 21040-900, Brazil; (A.P.D.A.B.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (D.S.)
- Correspondence:
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Panigaj M, Johnson MB, Ke W, McMillan J, Goncharova EA, Chandler M, Afonin KA. Aptamers as Modular Components of Therapeutic Nucleic Acid Nanotechnology. ACS NANO 2019; 13:12301-12321. [PMID: 31664817 PMCID: PMC7382785 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b06522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acids play a central role in all domains of life, either as genetic blueprints or as regulators of various biochemical pathways. The chemical makeup of ribonucleic acid (RNA) or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), generally represented by a sequence of four monomers, also provides precise instructions for folding and higher-order assembly of these biopolymers that, in turn, dictate biological functions. The sequence-based specific 3D structures of nucleic acids led to the development of the directed evolution of oligonucleotides, SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment), against a chosen target molecule. Among the variety of functions, selected oligonucleotides named aptamers also allow targeting of cell-specific receptors with antibody-like precision and can deliver functional RNAs without a transfection agent. The advancements in the field of customizable nucleic acid nanoparticles (NANPs) opened avenues for the design of nanoassemblies utilizing aptamers for triggering or blocking cell signaling pathways or using aptamer-receptor combinations to activate therapeutic functionalities. A recent selection of fluorescent aptamers enables real-time tracking of NANP formation and interactions. The aptamers are anticipated to contribute to the future development of technologies, enabling an efficient assembly of functional NANPs in mammalian cells or in vivo. These research topics are of top importance for the field of therapeutic nucleic acid nanotechnology with the promises to scale up mass production of NANPs suitable for biomedical applications, to control the intracellular organization of biological materials to enhance the efficiency of biochemical pathways, and to enhance the therapeutic potential of NANP-based therapeutics while minimizing undesired side effects and toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Panigaj
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
- Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Pavol Jozef Safarik University in Kosice, Kosice 04154, Slovak Republic
| | - M. Brittany Johnson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Weina Ke
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Jessica McMillan
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Ekaterina A. Goncharova
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
- Laboratory of Solution Chemistry of Advanced Materials and Technologies, ITMO University, St. Petersburg 191002, Russian Federation
| | - Morgan Chandler
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Kirill A. Afonin
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
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Soldevilla MM, Meraviglia-Crivelli de Caso D, Menon AP, Pastor F. Aptamer-iRNAs as Therapeutics for Cancer Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2018; 11:E108. [PMID: 30340426 PMCID: PMC6315413 DOI: 10.3390/ph11040108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides (ssDNA or ssRNA) that bind and recognize their targets with high affinity and specificity due to their complex tertiary structure. Aptamers are selected by a method called SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment). This method has allowed the selection of aptamers to different types of molecules. Since then, many aptamers have been described for the potential treatment of several diseases including cancer. It has been described over the last few years that aptamers represent a very useful tool as therapeutics, especially for cancer therapy. Aptamers, thanks to their intrinsic oligonucleotide nature, present inherent advantages over other molecules, such as cell-based products. Owing to their higher tissue penetrability, safer profile, and targeting capacity, aptamers are likely to become a novel platform for the delivery of many different types of therapeutic cargos. Here we focus the review on interfering RNAs (iRNAs) as aptamer-based targeting delivered agents. We have gathered the most reliable information on aptamers as targeting and carrier agents for the specific delivery of siRNAs, shRNA, microRNAs, and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) published in the last few years in the context of cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario M Soldevilla
- Molecular Therapy Program, Aptamer Core, Center for the Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
- Navarre Health Research Institute (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Daniel Meraviglia-Crivelli de Caso
- Molecular Therapy Program, Aptamer Core, Center for the Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
- Navarre Health Research Institute (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Ashwathi P Menon
- Molecular Therapy Program, Aptamer Core, Center for the Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
- Navarre Health Research Institute (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Fernando Pastor
- Molecular Therapy Program, Aptamer Core, Center for the Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
- Navarre Health Research Institute (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
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Pastor F, Berraondo P, Etxeberria I, Frederick J, Sahin U, Gilboa E, Melero I. An RNA toolbox for cancer immunotherapy. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2018; 17:751-767. [DOI: 10.1038/nrd.2018.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Zhu G, Chen X. Aptamer-based targeted therapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2018; 134:65-78. [PMID: 30125604 PMCID: PMC6239901 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Precision medicine holds great promise to harness genetic and epigenetic cues for targeted treatment of a variety of diseases, ranging from many types of cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, to cardiovascular diseases. The proteomic profiles resulting from the unique genetic and epigenetic signatures represent a class of relatively well accessible molecular targets for both interrogation (e.g., diagnosis, prognosis) and intervention (e.g., targeted therapy) of these diseases. Aptamers are promising for such applications by specific binding with cognate disease biomarkers. Nucleic acid aptamers are a class of DNA or RNA with unique three-dimensional conformations that allow them to specifically bind with target molecules. Aptamers can be relatively easily screened, reproducibly manufactured, programmably designed, and chemically modified for various biomedical applications, including targeted therapy. Aptamers can be chemically modified to resist enzymatic degradation or optimize their pharmacological behaviors, which ensured their chemical integrity and bioavailability under physiological conditions. In this review, we will focus on recent progress and discuss the challenges and opportunities in the research areas of aptamer-based targeted therapy in the forms of aptamer therapeutics and aptamer-drug conjugates (ApDCs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Guizhi Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Nanomedicine, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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30
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Catuogno S, Esposito CL, Condorelli G, de Franciscis V. Nucleic acids delivering nucleic acids. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2018; 134:79-93. [PMID: 29630917 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2018.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid therapeutics, including siRNAs, miRNAs/antimiRs, gRNAs and ASO, represent innovative and highly promising molecules for the safe treatment of a wide range of pathologies. The efficiency of systemic treatments is impeded by 1) the need to overcome physical and functional barriers in the organism, and 2) to accumulate in the intracellular active site at therapeutic concentrations. Although oligonucleotides either as modified naked molecules or complexed with delivery carriers have revealed to be effectively delivered to the affected target cells, this is restricted to topic treatments or to a few highly vascularized tissues. Therefore, the development of effective strategies for therapeutic nucleic acid selective delivery to target tissues is of primary importance in order to reduce the occurrence of undesired effects on non-target healthy tissues and to permit their translation to clinic. Due to their high affinity for specific ligands, high tissue penetration and chemical flexibility, short single-stranded nucleic acid aptamers are emerging as very attractive carriers for various therapeutic oligonucleotides. Yet, different aptamer-based bioconjugates, able to provide accumulation into target tissues, as well as efficient processing of therapeutic oligonucleotides, have been developed. In this respect, nucleic acid aptamer-mediated delivery strategies represent a powerful approach able to increase the therapeutic efficacy also highly reducing the overall toxicity. In this review, we will summarize recent progress in the field and discuss achieved objectives and optimization of aptamers as delivery carriers of short oligonucleotides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Catuogno
- Istituto di Endocrinologia ed Oncologia Sperimentale, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Carla Lucia Esposito
- Istituto di Endocrinologia ed Oncologia Sperimentale, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Gerolama Condorelli
- Istituto di Endocrinologia ed Oncologia Sperimentale, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Naples, Italy; Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, "Federico II" University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Vittorio de Franciscis
- Istituto di Endocrinologia ed Oncologia Sperimentale, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Naples, Italy.
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Yunn NO, Kim J, Kim Y, Leibiger I, Berggren PO, Ryu SH. Mechanistic understanding of insulin receptor modulation: Implications for the development of anti-diabetic drugs. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 185:86-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Zhang YB, Wang YP, Liu J. [Research advances in the role of aptamers in the diagnosis and targeted therapy of pediatric cancer]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2018; 20:421-427. [PMID: 29764582 PMCID: PMC7389069 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2018.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA which are isolated from synthesized random oligonucleotide library in vitro via systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) and can bind to metal ions, small molecules, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and others targets with high affinity and specificity. Aptamers have the advantages of simple preparation, good thermal stability, and low immunogenicity and have great potential in the medical fields such as molecular imaging, biosensing, early diagnosis of diseases, and targeted therapy. Aptamer technology may be useful for early diagnosis and targeted therapy of pediatric cancer, and may avoid the side effects of conventional chemotherapy, such as growth and development disorders and long-term organ dysfunction. This article reviews the latest research advances in the selection and application of aptamers for pediatric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Bin Zhang
- Molecular Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China.
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Kim M, Kim DM, Kim KS, Jung W, Kim DE. Applications of Cancer Cell-Specific Aptamers in Targeted Delivery of Anticancer Therapeutic Agents. Molecules 2018; 23:E830. [PMID: 29617327 PMCID: PMC6017884 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23040830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides that specifically bind and interact with their corresponding targets, including proteins and cells, through unique three-dimensional structures. Numerous aptamers have been developed to target cancer biomarkers with high specificity and affinity, and some are employed as versatile guiding ligands for cancer-specific drug delivery and anti-cancer therapeutics. In this review, we list the aptamers that target tumor surface biomarkers and summarize the representative applications of aptamers as agonists and antagonists that activate anti-cancer and inactivate pro-cancer biomarkers, respectively. In addition, we describe applications of aptamer-drug or aptamer-oligonucleotide conjugates that can deliver therapeutic agents, including small interfering RNAs, micro RNAs, short hairpin RNAs, and chemotherapeutic molecules, to cancer cells. Moreover, we provide examples of aptamer- conjugated nano-vehicles, in which cancer-targeting oligonucleotide aptamers are conjugated with nano-vehicles such as liposomes, micelles, polymeric nanoparticles, and quantum dots. Conjugation of aptamers with anti-cancer drugs and nano-vehicles will facilitate innovative applications of aptamer-based cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhee Kim
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea.
| | - Dong-Min Kim
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea.
| | - Keun-Sik Kim
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea.
| | - Woong Jung
- Department of Emergency Medicine Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul 05278, Korea.
| | - Dong-Eun Kim
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea.
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Morita Y, Leslie M, Kameyama H, Volk DE, Tanaka T. Aptamer Therapeutics in Cancer: Current and Future. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10030080. [PMID: 29562664 PMCID: PMC5876655 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10030080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aptamer-related technologies represent a revolutionary advancement in the capacity to rapidly develop new classes of targeting ligands. Structurally distinct RNA and DNA oligonucleotides, aptamers mimic small, protein-binding molecules and exhibit high binding affinity and selectivity. Although their molecular weight is relatively small—approximately one-tenth that of monoclonal antibodies—their complex tertiary folded structures create sufficient recognition surface area for tight interaction with target molecules. Additionally, unlike antibodies, aptamers can be readily chemically synthesized and modified. In addition, aptamers’ long storage period and low immunogenicity are favorable properties for clinical utility. Due to their flexibility of chemical modification, aptamers are conjugated to other chemical entities including chemotherapeutic agents, siRNA, nanoparticles, and solid phase surfaces for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. However, as relatively small sized oligonucleotides, aptamers present several challenges for successful clinical translation. Their short plasma half-lives due to nuclease degradation and rapid renal excretion necessitate further structural modification of aptamers for clinical application. Since the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the first aptamer drug, Macugen® (pegaptanib), which treats wet-age-related macular degeneration, several aptamer therapeutics for oncology have followed and shown promise in pre-clinical models as well as clinical trials. This review discusses the advantages and challenges of aptamers and introduces therapeutic aptamers under investigation and in clinical trials for cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Morita
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 NE 10th, BRC-W, Rm 1415, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
| | - Macall Leslie
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 NE 10th, BRC-W, Rm 1415, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
| | - Hiroyasu Kameyama
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 NE 10th, BRC-W, Rm 1415, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
| | - David E Volk
- McGovern Medical School, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 1825 Hermann Pressler, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Takemi Tanaka
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 NE 10th, BRC-W, Rm 1415, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 940 SL Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
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Soldevilla MM, Villanueva H, Casares N, Lasarte JJ, Bendandi M, Inoges S, López-Díaz de Cerio A, Pastor F. MRP1-CD28 bi-specific oligonucleotide aptamers: target costimulation to drug-resistant melanoma cancer stem cells. Oncotarget 2018; 7:23182-96. [PMID: 26992239 PMCID: PMC5029619 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work we show a clinically feasible strategy to convert in situ the own tumor into an endogenous vaccine by coating the melanoma cancerous cells with CD28 costimulatory ligands. This therapeutic approach is aimed at targeting T-cell costimulation to chemotherapy-resistant tumors which are refractory and been considered as untreatable cancers. These tumors are usually defined by an enrichment of cancer stem cells and characterized by the higher expression of chemotherapy-resistant proteins. In this work we develop the first aptamer that targets chemotherapy-resistant tumors expressing MRP1 through a novel combinatorial peptide-cell SELEX. With the use of the MRP1 aptamer we engineer a MRP1-CD28 bivalent aptamer that is able to bind MRP1-expressing tumors and deliver the CD28 costimulatory signal to tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. The bi-specific aptamer is able to enhance costimulation in chemotherapy-resistant tumors. Melanoma-bearing mice systemically treated with MRP1-CD28 bivalent aptamer show reduced growth, thus proving an improved mice survival. Besides, we have designed a technically feasible and translational whole-cell vaccine (Aptvax). Disaggregated cells from tumors can be directly decorated with costimulatory ligand aptamers to generate the vaccine Aptvax. CD28Aptvax made of irradiated tumor cells coated with the CD28-agonistic aptamer attached to MRP1 elicits a strong tumor- cell immune response against melanoma tumors reducing tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Martínez Soldevilla
- Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Helena Villanueva
- Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Noelia Casares
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain.,Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Juan Jose Lasarte
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain.,Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maurizio Bendandi
- Ross University School of Medicine, Roseau, Portsmouth, Commonwealth of Dominica
| | - Susana Inoges
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain.,Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ascensión López-Díaz de Cerio
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain.,Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Fernando Pastor
- Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain
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Bojadzic D, Buchwald P. Toward Small-Molecule Inhibition of Protein-Protein Interactions: General Aspects and Recent Progress in Targeting Costimulatory and Coinhibitory (Immune Checkpoint) Interactions. Curr Top Med Chem 2018; 18:674-699. [PMID: 29848279 PMCID: PMC6067980 DOI: 10.2174/1568026618666180531092503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Protein-Protein Interactions (PPIs) that are part of the costimulatory and coinhibitory (immune checkpoint) signaling are critical for adequate T cell response and are important therapeutic targets for immunomodulation. Biologics targeting them have already achieved considerable clinical success in the treatment of autoimmune diseases or transplant recipients (e.g., abatacept, belatacept, and belimumab) as well as cancer (e.g., ipilimumab, nivolumab, pembrolizumab, atezolizumab, durvalumab, and avelumab). In view of such progress, there have been only relatively limited efforts toward developing small-molecule PPI inhibitors (SMPPIIs) targeting these cosignaling interactions, possibly because they, as all other PPIs, are difficult to target by small molecules and were not considered druggable. Nevertheless, substantial progress has been achieved during the last decade. SMPPIIs proving the feasibility of such approaches have been identified through various strategies for a number of cosignaling interactions including CD40-CD40L, OX40-OX40L, BAFFR-BAFF, CD80-CD28, and PD-1-PD-L1s. Here, after an overview of the general aspects and challenges of SMPPII-focused drug discovery, we review them briefly together with relevant structural, immune-signaling, physicochemical, and medicinal chemistry aspects. While so far only a few of these SMPPIIs have shown activity in animal models (DRI-C21045 for CD40-D40L, KR33426 for BAFFR-BAFF) or reached clinical development (RhuDex for CD80-CD28, CA-170 for PD-1-PD-L1), there is proof-of-principle evidence for the feasibility of such approaches in immunomodulation. They can result in products that are easier to develop/ manufacture and are less likely to be immunogenic or encounter postmarket safety events than corresponding biologics, and, contrary to them, can even become orally bioavailable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damir Bojadzic
- Diabetes Research Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Peter Buchwald
- Diabetes Research Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
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Wu H, Wang M, Dai B, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Li Q, Duan M, Zhang X, Wang X, Li A, Zhang L. Novel CD123-aptamer-originated targeted drug trains for selectively delivering cytotoxic agent to tumor cells in acute myeloid leukemia theranostics. Drug Deliv 2017; 24:1216-1229. [PMID: 28845698 PMCID: PMC8241133 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2017.1367976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Since conventional chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has its limitations, a theranostic platform with targeted and efficient drug transport is in demand. In this study, we developed the first CD123 (AML tumor marker) aptamers and designed a novel CD123-aptamer-mediated targeted drug train (TDT) with effective, economical, biocompatible and high drug-loading capacity. These two CD123 aptamers (termed as ZW25 and CY30, respectively) can bind to a CD123 peptide epitope and CD123 + AML cells with high specificities and KD of 29.41 nM and 15.38 nM, respectively, while has minimal cross reactivities to albumin, IgG and trypsin. Further, TDT is self-assembled from two short primers by ligand-modified ZW25 that acted as initiation position for elongation, while intercalated by doxorubicin (Dox). TDT is capable of transporting high capacity of Dox to CD123 + cells and retains the efficacy of Dox, while significantly reducing drug uptake and eased toxicity to CD123- cells in vitro (p < .01). Moreover, TDT can ease Dox cytoxicity to normal tissues, prolong survivals and inhibit tumor growth of mouse xenograft tumor model in vivo. These suggest that CD123 aptamer and CD123 aptamer-mediated targeted drug delivery system may have potential applications for selective delivery cytotoxic agents to CD123-expressing tumors in AML theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibin Wu
- Shaanxi Institute of Pediatric Diseases, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Key laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The No.11 Hospital of PLA, YiNing, XinJiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Dai
- Shaanxi Center for Stem Cell Application Engineering Research, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanmin Zhang
- Shaanxi Institute of Pediatric Diseases, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Yang
- Shaanxi Institute of Pediatric Diseases, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiao Li
- Clinical Laboratory, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingyue Duan
- Shaanxi Institute of Pediatric Diseases, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Shaanxi Institute of Pediatric Diseases, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaomei Wang
- Shaanxi Institute of Pediatric Diseases, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Anmao Li
- Shaanxi Institute of Pediatric Diseases, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liyu Zhang
- Shaanxi Institute of Pediatric Diseases, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Key laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
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Recent Advances in SELEX Technology and Aptamer Applications in Biomedicine. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18102142. [PMID: 29036890 PMCID: PMC5666824 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18102142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are short DNA/RNA oligonucleotides capable of binding to target molecules with high affinity and specificity. The process of selecting an aptamer is called Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX). Thanks to the inherit merits, aptamers have been used in a wide range of applications, including disease diagnosis, targeted delivery agents and therapeutic uses. To date, great achievements regarding the selection, modifications and application of aptamers have been made. However, few aptamer-based products have already successfully entered into clinical and industrial use. Besides, it is still a challenge to obtain aptamers with high affinity in a more efficient way. Thus, it is important to comprehensively review the current shortage and achievement of aptamer-related technology. In this review, we first present the limitations and notable advances of aptamer selection. Then, we compare the different methods used in the kinetic characterization of aptamers. We also discuss the impetus and developments of the clinical application of aptamers.
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Soldevilla MM, Hervas S, Villanueva H, Lozano T, Rabal O, Oyarzabal J, Lasarte JJ, Bendandi M, Inoges S, López-Díaz de Cerio A, Pastor F. Identification of LAG3 high affinity aptamers by HT-SELEX and Conserved Motif Accumulation (CMA). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185169. [PMID: 28934318 PMCID: PMC5608357 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
LAG3 receptor belongs to a family of immune-checkpoints expressed in T lymphocytes and other cells of the immune system. It plays an important role as a rheostat of the immune response. Focus on this receptor as a potential therapeutic target in cancer immunotherapy has been underscored after the success of other immune-checkpoint blockade strategies in clinical trials. LAG3 showcases the interest in the field of autoimmunity as several studies show that LAG3-targeting antibodies can also be used for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. In this work we describe the identification of a high-affinity LAG3 aptamer by High Throughput Sequencing SELEX in combination with a study of potential conserved binding modes according to sequence conservation by using 2D-structure prediction and 3D-RNA modeling using Rosetta. The aptamer with the highest accumulation of these conserved sequence motifs displays the highest affinity to LAG3 recombinant soluble proteins and binds to LAG3-expressing lymphocytes. The aptamer described herein has the potential to be used as a therapeutic agent, as it enhances the threshold of T-cell activation. Nonetheless, in future applications, it could also be engineered for treatment of autoimmune diseases by target depletion of LAG3-effector T lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Martínez Soldevilla
- Aptamer Platform, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sandra Hervas
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center for Applied Medical Research, (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Helena Villanueva
- Aptamer Platform, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Teresa Lozano
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center for Applied Medical Research, (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Obdulia Rabal
- Small Molecule Discovery Platform, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Julen Oyarzabal
- Small Molecule Discovery Platform, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Juan José Lasarte
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center for Applied Medical Research, (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maurizio Bendandi
- Section on Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University Baptist Healthcare Center, Winston-Salem, NC, United States of America
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, W.G Hefner VA Medical Center, Salisbury/Charlotte, NC, United States of America
| | - Susana Inoges
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University Clinic of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ascensión López-Díaz de Cerio
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University Clinic of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Fernando Pastor
- Aptamer Platform, Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
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Batool S, Bhandari S, George S, Okeoma P, Van N, Zümrüt HE, Mallikaratchy P. Engineered Aptamers to Probe Molecular Interactions on the Cell Surface. Biomedicines 2017; 5:biomedicines5030054. [PMID: 28850067 PMCID: PMC5618312 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines5030054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Significant progress has been made in understanding the nature of molecular interactions on the cell membrane. To decipher such interactions, molecular scaffolds can be engineered as a tool to modulate these events as they occur on the cell membrane. To guarantee reliability, scaffolds that function as modulators of cell membrane events must be coupled to a targeting moiety with superior chemical versatility. In this regard, nucleic acid aptamers are a suitable class of targeting moieties. Aptamers are inherently chemical in nature, allowing extensive site-specific chemical modification to engineer sensing molecules. Aptamers can be easily selected using a simple laboratory-based in vitro evolution method enabling the design and development of aptamer-based functional molecular scaffolds against wide range of cell surface molecules. This article reviews the application of aptamers as monitors and modulators of molecular interactions on the mammalian cell surface with the aim of increasing our understanding of cell-surface receptor response to external stimuli. The information gained from these types of studies could eventually prove useful in engineering improved medical diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Batool
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
| | - Sanam Bhandari
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
| | - Shanell George
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
| | - Precious Okeoma
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
| | - Nabeela Van
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
| | - Hazan E Zümrüt
- Ph.D. Programs in Chemistry and Biochemistry, CUNY Graduate Center, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Prabodhika Mallikaratchy
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
- Ph.D. Programs in Chemistry and Biochemistry, CUNY Graduate Center, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
- Ph.D. Program in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, CUNY Graduate Center, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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41
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Poolsup S, Kim CY. Therapeutic applications of synthetic nucleic acid aptamers. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2017; 48:180-186. [PMID: 28582756 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2017.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
It is possible to generate oligonucleotide aptamers for a wide variety of target molecules using a process known as Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment. Researchers have successfully generated aptamers which recognize specific metal ions, small chemical compounds, peptides, proteins, saccharides, and even whole cells. Aptamers show much promise as future therapeutics and as drug targeting agents. A particularly active area of aptamer research in the past two years was development of aptamer based cancer therapeutics and development of aptamer based cancer drug delivery systems. Aptamers were also used to address inflammatory diseases, infectious diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suttinee Poolsup
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79912, United States
| | - Chu-Young Kim
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79912, United States; School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, United States.
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Mizrahy S, Hazan-Halevy I, Dammes N, Landesman-Milo D, Peer D. Current Progress in Non-viral RNAi-Based Delivery Strategies to Lymphocytes. Mol Ther 2017; 25:1491-1500. [PMID: 28392163 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RNAi-based therapy holds great promise, as it can be utilized for the treatment of multiple conditions in an accurate manner via sequence-specific manipulation of gene expression. To date, RNAi therapeutics have advanced into clinical trials for liver diseases and solid tumors; however, delivery of RNAi to leukocytes in general and to lymphocytes in particular remains a challenge. Lymphocytes are notoriously hard to transduce with RNAi payloads and are disseminated throughout the body, often located in deep tissues; therefore, developing an efficient systemic delivery system directed to lymphocytes is not a trivial task. Successful manipulation of lymphocyte function with RNAi possesses immense therapeutic potential, as it will enable researchers to resolve lymphocyte-implicated diseases such as inflammation, autoimmunity, transplant rejection, viral infections, and blood cancers. This potential has propelled the development of novel targeted delivery systems relying on the accumulating research knowledge from multiple disciplines, including materials science and engineering, immunology, and genetics. Here, we will discuss the recent progress in non-viral delivery strategies of RNAi payloads to lymphocytes. Special emphasis will be made on the challenges and potential opportunities in manipulating lymphocyte function with RNAi. These approaches might ultimately become a novel therapeutic modality to treat leukocyte-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoshy Mizrahy
- Laboratory of Precision NanoMedicine, Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Inbal Hazan-Halevy
- Laboratory of Precision NanoMedicine, Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Niels Dammes
- Laboratory of Precision NanoMedicine, Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Dalit Landesman-Milo
- Laboratory of Precision NanoMedicine, Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Dan Peer
- Laboratory of Precision NanoMedicine, Department of Cell Research and Immunology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
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43
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Abstract
Nucleic acid aptamers, often termed 'chemical antibodies', are functionally comparable to traditional antibodies, but offer several advantages, including their relatively small physical size, flexible structure, quick chemical production, versatile chemical modification, high stability and lack of immunogenicity. In addition, many aptamers are internalized upon binding to cellular receptors, making them useful targeted delivery agents for small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs and conventional drugs. However, several crucial factors have delayed the clinical translation of therapeutic aptamers, such as their inherent physicochemical characteristics and lack of safety data. This Review discusses these challenges, highlighting recent clinical developments and technological advances that have revived the impetus for this promising class of therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiehua Zhou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Rd, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - John Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Rd, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Rd, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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44
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Aptamers for CD Antigens: From Cell Profiling to Activity Modulation. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2016; 6:29-44. [PMID: 28325295 PMCID: PMC5363458 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid-based aptamers are considered to be a promising alternative to antibodies because of their strong and specific binding to diverse targets, fast and inexpensive chemical synthesis, and easy labeling with a fluorescent dye or therapeutic agent. Cluster of differentiation (CD) proteins are among the most popular antigens for aptamers on the cell surface. These anti-CD aptamers could be used in cell biology and biomedicine, from simple cell phenotyping by flow cytometry or fluorescent microscopy to diagnosis and treatment of HIV/AIDS to cancer and immune therapies. The unique feature of aptamers is that they can act simultaneously as an agonist and antagonist of CD receptors depending on a degree of aptamer oligomerization. Aptamers can also deliver small interfering RNA to silence vital genes in CD-positive cells. In this review, we summarize nucleic acid sequences of anti-CD aptamers and their use, which have been validated in multiple studies.
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Hervas-Stubbs S, Soldevilla MM, Villanueva H, Mancheño U, Bendandi M, Pastor F. Identification of TIM3 2'-fluoro oligonucleotide aptamer by HT-SELEX for cancer immunotherapy. Oncotarget 2016; 7:4522-30. [PMID: 26683225 PMCID: PMC4826223 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
TIM3 belongs to a family of receptors that are involved in T-cell exhaustion and Treg functions. The development of new therapeutic agents to block this type of receptors is opening a new avenue in cancer immunotherapy. There are currently several clinical trials ongoing to combine different immune-checkpoint blockades to improve the outcome of cancer patients. Among these combinations we should underline PD1:PDL1 axis and TIM3 blockade, which have shown very promising results in preclinical settings. Most of these types of therapeutic agents are protein cell-derived products, which, although broadly used in clinical settings, are still subject to important limitations. In this work we identify by HT-SELEX TIM3 non-antigenic oligonucleotide aptamers (TIM3Apt) that bind with high affinity and specificity to the extracellular motives of TIM3 on the cell surface. The TIM3Apt1 in its monomeric form displays a potent antagonist capacity on TIM3-expressing lymphocytes, determining the increase of IFN-γ secretion. In colon carcinoma tumor-bearing mice, the combinatorial treatment of TIM3Apt1 and PDL1-antibody blockade is synergistic with a remarkable antitumor effect. Immunotherapeutic aptamers could represent an attractive alternative to monoclonal antibodies, as they exhibit important advantages; namely, lower antigenicity, being chemically synthesized agents with a lower price of manufacture, providing higher malleability, and antidote availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Hervas-Stubbs
- Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigaciones Medicas Aplicadas (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Mario M Soldevilla
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Medicas Aplicadas (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Helena Villanueva
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Medicas Aplicadas (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Uxua Mancheño
- Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigaciones Medicas Aplicadas (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maurizio Bendandi
- Ross University School of Medicine, Portsmouth, Commonwealth of Dominica
| | - Fernando Pastor
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Medicas Aplicadas (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
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46
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Pastor F. Aptamers: A New Technological Platform in Cancer Immunotherapy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2016; 9:ph9040064. [PMID: 27783034 PMCID: PMC5198039 DOI: 10.3390/ph9040064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The renaissance of cancer immunotherapy is, nowadays, a reality. In the near future, it will be very likely among the first-line treatments for cancer patients. There are several different approaches to modulate the immune system to fight against tumor maladies but, so far, monoclonal antibodies may currently be the most successful immuno-tools used to that end. The number of ongoing clinical trials with monoclonal antibodies has been increasing exponentially over the last few years upon the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the first immune-checkpoint blockade antibodies. In spite of the proved antitumor effect of these reagents, the unleashing of the immune system to fight cancer cells has a cost, namely auto-inflammatory toxicity. Additionally, only a small fraction of all patients treated with immune-checkpoint antibodies have a clinical benefit. Taking into account all this, it is urgent new therapeutic reagents are developed with a contained toxicity that could facilitate the combination of different immune-modulating pathways to broaden the antitumor effect in most cancer patients. Based on preclinical data, oligonucleotide aptamers could fulfill this need. Aptamers have not only been successfully used as antagonists of immune-checkpoint receptors, but also as agonists of immunostimulatory receptors in cancer immunotherapy. The simplicity of aptamers to be engineered for the specific delivery of different types of cargos to tumor cells and immune cells so as to harvest an efficient antitumor immune response gives aptamers a significant advantage over antibodies. In this review all of the recent applications of aptamers in cancer immunotherapy will be described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Pastor
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain.
- Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigación Medica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona 31008, Spain.
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47
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Aptamers: A Feasible Technology in Cancer Immunotherapy. J Immunol Res 2016; 2016:1083738. [PMID: 27413756 PMCID: PMC4931050 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1083738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are single-chained RNA or DNA oligonucleotides (ODNs) with three-dimensional folding structures which allow them to bind to their targets with high specificity. Aptamers normally show affinities comparable to or higher than that of antibodies. They are chemically synthesized and therefore less expensive to manufacture and produce. A variety of aptamers described to date have been shown to be reliable in modulating immune responses against cancer by either blocking or activating immune receptors. Some of them have been conjugated to other molecules to target the immune system and reduce off-target side effects. Despite the success of first-line treatments against cancer, the elevated number of relapsing cases and the tremendous side effects shown by the commonly used agents hinder conventional treatments against cancer. The advantages provided by aptamers could enhance the therapeutic index of a given strategy and therefore enhance the antitumor effect. Here we recapitulate the provided benefits of aptamers with immunomodulatory activity described to date in cancer therapy and the benefits that aptamer-based immunotherapy could provide either alone or combined with first-line treatments in cancer therapy.
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48
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Toy R, Roy K. Engineering nanoparticles to overcome barriers to immunotherapy. Bioeng Transl Med 2016; 1:47-62. [PMID: 29313006 PMCID: PMC5689503 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in immunotherapy have led to the development of a variety of promising therapeutics, including small molecules, proteins and peptides, monoclonal antibodies, and cellular therapies. Despite this wealth of new therapeutics, the efficacy of immunotherapy has been limited by challenges in targeted delivery and controlled release, that is, spatial and temporal control on delivery. Particulate carriers, especially nanoparticles have been widely studied in drug delivery and vaccine research and are being increasingly investigated as vehicles to deliver immunotherapies. Nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery could provide several benefits, including control of biodistribution and transport kinetics, the potential for site-specific targeting, immunogenicity, tracking capability using medical imaging, and multitherapeutic loading. There are also a unique set of challenges, which include nonspecific uptake by phagocytic cells, off-target biodistribution, permeation through tissue (transport limitation), nonspecific immune-activation, and poor control over intracellular localization. This review highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between a nanoparticle's size, shape, charge, ligand density and elasticity to its vascular transport, biodistribution, cellular internalization, and immunogenicity. For the design of an effective immunotherapy, we highlight the importance of selecting a nanoparticle's physical characteristics (e.g., size, shape, elasticity) and its surface functionalization (e.g., chemical or polymer modifications, targeting or tissue-penetrating peptides) with consideration of its reactivity to the targeted microenvironment (e.g., targeted cell types, use of stimuli-sensitive biomaterials, immunogenicity). Applications of this rational nanoparticle design process in vaccine development and cancer immunotherapy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randall Toy
- Wallace H. Coulter Dept. of Biomedical Engineering Georgia Institute of Technology, and Emory University Atlanta GA 30332
| | - Krishnendu Roy
- Wallace H. Coulter Dept. of Biomedical Engineering Georgia Institute of Technology, and Emory University Atlanta GA 30332
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49
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Abstract
Aptamers are chemically synthesized oligonucleotides that can be easily engineered for cancer immunotherapy use. So far, most of the therapeutic aptamers described are antagonistic and block the function of a receptor or its soluble ligand. Recently, aptamers have been modified to act as agonists by multimerization, with a direct application in cancer immunotherapy. Several agonistic aptamers against costimulatory receptors have been described. However, systemic costimulation, though potentially a very potent antitumor immune strategy, is not devoid of auto-inflammatory side effects. In a quest to reduce toxicity and improve efficacy – reducing the therapeutic index – the first bi-specific aptamers to target the costimulatory ligand to the tumor have been described, showing very promising results in different preclinical tumor models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Pastor
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain.,Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigación Medica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, 31008, Spain
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50
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Trends in the Design and Development of Specific Aptamers Against Peptides and Proteins. Protein J 2016; 35:81-99. [DOI: 10.1007/s10930-016-9653-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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