1
|
Yu L, Chen L, Satyabola D, Prasad A, Yan H. NucleoCraft: The Art of Stimuli-Responsive Precision in DNA and RNA Bioengineering. BME FRONTIERS 2024; 5:0050. [PMID: 39290204 PMCID: PMC11407293 DOI: 10.34133/bmef.0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in DNA and RNA bioengineering have paved the way for developing stimuli-responsive nanostructures with remarkable potential across various applications. These nanostructures, crafted through sophisticated bioengineering techniques, can dynamically and precisely respond to both physiological and physical stimuli, including nucleic acids (DNA/RNA), adenosine triphosphate, proteins, ions, small molecules, pH, light, and temperature. They offer high sensitivity and specificity, making them ideal for applications such as biomarker detection, gene therapy, and controlled targeted drug delivery. In this review, we summarize the bioengineering methods used to assemble versatile stimuli-responsive DNA/RNA nanostructures and discuss their emerging applications in structural biology and biomedicine, including biosensing, targeted drug delivery, and therapeutics. Finally, we highlight the challenges and opportunities in the rational design of these intelligent bioengineered nanostructures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yu
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
| | - Liangxiao Chen
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
| | - Deeksha Satyabola
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
| | - Abhay Prasad
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
| | - Hao Yan
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Liu X, Liu F, Chhabra H, Maffeo C, Chen Z, Huang Q, Aksimentiev A, Arai T. A lumen-tunable triangular DNA nanopore for molecular sensing and cross-membrane transport. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7210. [PMID: 39174536 PMCID: PMC11341817 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51630-0] [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: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Synthetic membrane nanopores made of DNA are promising systems to sense and control molecular transport in biosensing, sequencing, and synthetic cells. Lumen-tunable nanopore like the natural ion channels and systematically increasing the lumen size have become long-standing desires in developing nanopores. Here, we design a triangular DNA nanopore with a large tunable lumen. It allows in-situ transition from expanded state to contracted state without changing its stable triangular shape, and vice versa, in which specific DNA bindings as stimuli mechanically pinch and release the three corners of the triangular frame. Transmission electron microscopy images and molecular dynamics simulations illustrate the stable architectures and the high shape retention. Single-channel current recordings and fluorescence influx studies demonstrate the low-noise repeatable readouts and the controllable cross-membrane macromolecular transport. We envision that the proposed DNA nanopores could offer powerful tools in molecular sensing, drug delivery, and the creation of synthetic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Liu
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China.
| | - Fengyu Liu
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Hemani Chhabra
- Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Christopher Maffeo
- Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Zhuo Chen
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Huang
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Aleksei Aksimentiev
- Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
| | - Tatsuo Arai
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Center for Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, The University of Electro-Communications, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Song Y, Jin X, Zhao Y, Cheng S, Xu S, Bu S, Liu L, Zhou C, Pang C. Construction of scalable multi-channel DNA nanoplatform for the combined detection of ctDNA biomarkers of ovarian cancer. Mikrochim Acta 2024; 191:553. [PMID: 39167246 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-024-06632-6] [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: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Single-level biomarker detection has the limitation of insufficient accuracy in cancer diagnosis. Therefore, the strategy of developing highly sensitive, multi-channel biosensors for high-throughput ctDNA determination is critical to improve the accuracy of early diagnosis of clinical tumors. Herein, in order to achieve efficient detection of up to ten targets for early diagnosis of ovarian cancer, a DNA-nanoswitch-based multi-channel (DNA-NSMC) biosensor was built based on the multi-module catalytic hairpin assembly-mediated signal amplification (CHA) and toehold-mediated DNA strand displacement (TDSD) reaction. Only two different fluorescence signals were used as outputs, combined with modular segmentation strategy of DNA-nanoswitch-based reaction platform; the multi-channel detection of up to ten targets was successfully achieved for the first time. The experimental results suggest that the proposed biosensor is a promising tool for simultaneously detecting multiple biomarkers for the early diagnosis of ovarian cancer, offering new strategies for the early screening, diagnosis, and treatment not only for ovarian cancer but also for other cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Song
- College of Life Science and Technology, Joint Laboratory of Medical Instrument Innovation, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Xiuyan Jin
- College of Life Science and Technology, Joint Laboratory of Medical Instrument Innovation, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Yiou Zhao
- College of Life Science and Technology, Joint Laboratory of Medical Instrument Innovation, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Shuwen Cheng
- College of Life Science and Technology, Joint Laboratory of Medical Instrument Innovation, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Sai Xu
- School of Science, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, 116026, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengjun Bu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Joint Laboratory of Medical Instrument Innovation, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Liming Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Joint Laboratory of Medical Instrument Innovation, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Chunyang Zhou
- College of Life Science and Technology, Joint Laboratory of Medical Instrument Innovation, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, 130000, China.
| | - Chunying Pang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Joint Laboratory of Medical Instrument Innovation, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, 130000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rong Q, Deng Y, Chen F, Yin Z, Hu L, Su X, Zhou D. Polymerase-Based Signal Delay for Temporally Regulating DNA Involved Reactions, Programming Dynamic Molecular Systems, and Biomimetic Sensing. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2400142. [PMID: 38676334 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202400142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Complex temporal molecular signals play a pivotal role in the intricate biological pathways of living organisms, and cells exhibit the ability to transmit and receive information by intricately managing the temporal dynamics of their signaling molecules. Although biomimetic molecular networks are successfully engineered outside of cells, the capacity to precisely manipulate temporal behaviors remains limited. In this study, the catalysis activity of isothermal DNA polymerase (DNAP) through combined use of molecular dynamics simulation analysis and fluorescence assays is first characterized. DNAP-driven delay in signal strand release ranged from 100 to 102 min, which is achieved through new strategies including the introduction of primer overhangs, utilization of inhibitory reagents, and alteration of DNA template lengths. The results provide a deeper insight into the underlying mechanisms of temporal control DNAP-mediated primer extension and DNA strand displacement reactions. Then, the regulated DNAP catalysis reactions are applied in temporal modulation of downstream DNA-involved reactions, the establishment of dynamic molecular signals, and the generation of barcodes for multiplexed detection of target genes. The utility of DNAP-based signal delay as a dynamic DNA nanotechnology extends beyond theoretical concepts and achieves practical applications in the fields of cell-free synthetic biology and bionic sensing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinze Rong
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yingnan Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
- Sinopec Key Laboratory of Research and Application of Medical and Hygienic Materials, Sinopec (Beijing) Research Institute of Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., Beijing, 100013, China
| | - Fangzhou Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Zhe Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Lingfei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Xin Su
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Dongsheng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100071, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen C, Yu M, Li Q, Zhou Y, Zhang M, Cai S, Yu J, Huang Z, Liu J, Kuang Y, Tang X, Chen W. Programmable Tetrahedral DNA-RNA Nanocages Woven with Stimuli-Responsive siRNA for Enhancing Therapeutic Efficacy of Multidrug-Resistant Tumors. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2404112. [PMID: 38923806 PMCID: PMC11348235 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202404112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major obstacle limiting the effectiveness of chemotherapy against cancer. The combination strategy of chemotherapeutic agents and siRNA targeting drug efflux has emerged as an effective cancer treatment to overcome MDR. Herein, stimuli-responsive programmable tetrahedral DNA-RNA nanocages (TDRN) have been rationally designed and developed for dynamic co-delivery of the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) siRNA. Specifically, the sense and antisense strand sequences of the P-gp siRNA, which are programmable bricks with terminal disulfide bond conjugation, are precisely embedded in one edge of the DNA tetrahedron. TDRN provides a stimuli-responsive release element for dynamic control of functional cargo P-gp siRNA that is significantly more stable than the "tail-like" TDN nanostructures. The stable and highly rigid 3D nanostructure of the siRNA-organized TDRN nanocages demonstrated a notable improvement in the stability of RNase A and mouse serum, as well as long-term storage stability for up to 4 weeks, as evidenced by this study. These biocompatible and multifunctional TDRN nanocarriers with gold nanocluster-assisted delivery (TDRN@Dox@AuNCp) are successfully used to achieve synergistic RNAi/Chemo-therapy in vitro and in vivo. This programmable TDRN drug delivery system, which integrates RNAi therapy and chemotherapy, offers a promising approach for treating multidrug-resistant tumors.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- RNA, Small Interfering/genetics
- RNA, Small Interfering/administration & dosage
- RNA, Small Interfering/chemistry
- Animals
- Mice
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/drug effects
- Doxorubicin/pharmacology
- Drug Resistance, Multiple/genetics
- Drug Resistance, Multiple/drug effects
- DNA/genetics
- DNA/chemistry
- Humans
- Nanostructures/chemistry
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Disease Models, Animal
- Neoplasms/genetics
- Neoplasms/therapy
- Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Drug Delivery Systems/methods
- Mice, Nude
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Changmai Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| | - Maocheng Yu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| | - Qing Li
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| | - Mengting Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| | - Shanyu Cai
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| | - Jiaojiao Yu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| | - Zhongnan Huang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| | - Jiaan Liu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| | - Ye Kuang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| | - Xinjing Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic DrugsSchool of Pharmaceutical SciencesPeking UniversityBeijing100191China
| | - Wei Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Drug Target Discovery and Structural and Functional Research, School of PharmacyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhou350122China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yadav K, Gnanakani SPE, Sahu KK, Veni Chikkula CK, Vaddi PS, Srilakshmi S, Yadav R, Sucheta, Dubey A, Minz S, Pradhan M. Nano revolution of DNA nanostructures redefining cancer therapeutics-A comprehensive review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 274:133244. [PMID: 38901506 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
DNA nanostructures are a promising tool in cancer treatment, offering an innovative way to improve the effectiveness of therapies. These nanostructures can be made solely from DNA or combined with other materials to overcome the limitations of traditional single-drug treatments. There is growing interest in developing nanosystems capable of delivering multiple drugs simultaneously, addressing challenges such as drug resistance. Engineered DNA nanostructures are designed to precisely deliver different drugs to specific locations, enhancing therapeutic effects. By attaching targeting molecules, these nanostructures can recognize and bind to cancer cells, increasing treatment precision. This approach offers tailored solutions for targeted drug delivery, enabling the delivery of multiple drugs in a coordinated manner. This review explores the advancements and applications of DNA nanostructures in cancer treatment, with a focus on targeted drug delivery and multi-drug therapy. It discusses the benefits and current limitations of nanoscale formulations in cancer therapy, categorizing DNA nanostructures into pure forms and hybrid versions optimized for drug delivery. Furthermore, the review examines ongoing research efforts and translational possibilities, along with challenges in clinical integration. By highlighting the advancements in DNA nanostructures, this review aims to underscore their potential in improving cancer treatment outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Yadav
- Rungta College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Kohka, Bhilai 490024, India
| | - S Princely E Gnanakani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Post Limda, Ta.Waghodia - 391760, Dist. Vadodara, Gujarat, India
| | - Kantrol Kumar Sahu
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh 281406, India
| | - C Krishna Veni Chikkula
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Poorna Sai Vaddi
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - S Srilakshmi
- Gitam School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Gitams University, Vishakhapatnam, India
| | - Renu Yadav
- School of Medical and Allied Sciences, K. R. Mangalam University, Sohna Road, Gurugram, Haryana 122103, India
| | - Sucheta
- School of Medical and Allied Sciences, K. R. Mangalam University, Sohna Road, Gurugram, Haryana 122103, India
| | - Akhilesh Dubey
- Nitte (Deemed to be University), NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutics, Mangaluru 575018, Karnataka, India
| | - Sunita Minz
- Department of Pharmacy, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak (M.P.), India
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Skaanning MK, Bønnelykke J, Nijenhuis MAD, Samanta A, Smidt JM, Gothelf KV. Self-Assembly of Ultrasmall 3D Architectures of (l)-Acyclic Threoninol Nucleic Acids with High Thermal and Serum Stability. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:20141-20146. [PMID: 38982685 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c04919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
The primary challenge of implementing DNA nanostructures in biomedical applications lies in their vulnerability to nuclease degradation and variations in ionic strength. Furthermore, the size minimization of DNA and RNA nanostructures is limited by the stability of the DNA and RNA duplexes. This study presents a solution to these problems through the use of acyclic (l)-threoninol nucleic acid (aTNA), an artificial acyclic nucleic acid, which offers enhanced resilience under physiological conditions. The high stability of homo aTNA duplexes enables the design of durable nanostructures with dimensions below 5 nm, previously unattainable due to the inherent instability of DNA structures. The assembly of a stable aTNA-based 3D cube and pyramid that involves an i-motif formation is demonstrated. In particular, the cube outperforms its DNA-based counterparts in terms of stability. We furthermore demonstrate the successful attachment of a nanobody to the aTNA cube using the favorable triplex formation of aTNA with ssDNA. The selective in vitro binding capability to human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 is demonstrated. The presented research presents the use of aTNA for the creation of smaller durable nanostructures for future medical applications. It also introduces a new method for attaching payloads to these structures, enhancing their utility in targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mads K Skaanning
- Department of Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Centre (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jonas Bønnelykke
- Department of Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Centre (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Minke A D Nijenhuis
- Department of Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Centre (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anirban Samanta
- Department of Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Centre (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jakob Melgaard Smidt
- Department of Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Centre (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kurt V Gothelf
- Department of Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Centre (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ren C, Wang F, Meng X, Zhou R, Sun Z, Cheng Y, Chu H, Wang Y. Supramolecular Modulator Assisted Cryo-Engineered Porous Cu-DNA Nano-Vehicles for Versatile Theranostic Agent Delivery. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2401885. [PMID: 39036819 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202401885] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
DNA nanotechnology combines structural design with therapeutic functions via programmable DNA motifs, but faces challenges in drug loading capacity. Herein a pore-engineering strategy is reported to develop a highly porous, universal DNA nano-vehicle through coordination self-assembly, cryo-engineering, and supramolecular chemistry, adapting to diverse cargo loading with desired theranostic agents. Thus, the complex synthesis and compatibility challenges typically associated with switching between different drug carriers are avoided. To this end, Cu2+ and nucleic acid therapeutic G3139 self-assemble into a prefabricated solid nanostructure, which subsequently undergoes ultrafast freezing and sublimation to introduce porosity, forming highly porous Cu-G3139 nanoparticles (CG NPs). The porous CG NPs efficiently accommodate diverse therapeutic molecules, from chemotherapeutics to non-chemotherapeutic agents, facilitated by positively-charged cyclodextrin. As a proof-of-concept, the photosensitizer indocyanine green (ICG) is loaded and coated with tannic acid (TA) to form CICG@TA, enabling remarkable photothermal and fluorescence imaging-guided synergistic tumor ablation. This work represents the first demonstration of sublimation-induced pore formation in metal-DNA hybrid nanoparticles without chemical etching, offering a scalable "plug-and-play" platform for personalized cancer therapy without redesign. This versatile pore-engineering strategy, merging supramolecular chemistry with cryo-engineered porosity, opens up new avenues for efficient, customized multidrug delivery for diverse tumor theranostic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cui Ren
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Translational Medicine Center, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, 101149, China
| | - Xiaoyi Meng
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Ruiang Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Zhaogang Sun
- Translational Medicine Center, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, 101149, China
| | - Yue Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Hongqian Chu
- Translational Medicine Center, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, 101149, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Enlund E, Julin S, Linko V, Kostiainen MA. Structural stability of DNA origami nanostructures in organic solvents. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:13407-13415. [PMID: 38910453 PMCID: PMC11256221 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr02185a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
DNA origami nanostructures have attracted significant attention as an innovative tool in a variety of research areas, spanning from nanophotonics to bottom-up nanofabrication. However, the use of DNA origami is often restricted by their rather limited structural stability in application-specific conditions. The structural integrity of DNA origami is known to be superstructure-dependent, and the integrity is influenced by various external factors, for example cation concentration, temperature, and presence of nucleases. Given the necessity to functionalize DNA origami also with non-water-soluble entities, it is important to acquire knowledge of the structural stability of DNA origami in various organic solvents. Therefore, we herein systematically investigate the post-folding DNA origami stability in a variety of polar, water-miscible solvents, including acetone, ethanol, DMF, and DMSO. Our results suggest that the structural integrity of DNA origami in organic solvents is both superstructure-dependent and dependent on the properties of the organic solvent. In addition, DNA origami are generally more resistant to added organic solvents in folding buffer compared to that in deionized water. DNA origami stability can be maintained in up to 25-40% DMF or DMSO and up to 70-90% acetone or ethanol, with the highest overall stability observed in acetone. By rationally selecting both the DNA origami design and the solvent, the DNA origami stability can be maintained in high concentrations of organic solvents, which paves the way for more extensive use of non-water-soluble compounds for DNA origami functionalization and complexation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eeva Enlund
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
| | - Sofia Julin
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
| | - Veikko Linko
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Mauri A Kostiainen
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
- LIBER Center of Excellence, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yuan C, Zhou F, Xu Z, Wu D, Hou P, Yang D, Pan L, Wang P. Functionalized DNA Origami-Enabled Detection of Biomarkers. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202400227. [PMID: 38700476 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202400227] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Biomarkers are crucial physiological and pathological indicators in the host. Over the years, numerous detection methods have been developed for biomarkers, given their significant potential in various biological and biomedical applications. Among these, the detection system based on functionalized DNA origami has emerged as a promising approach due to its precise control over sensing modules, enabling sensitive, specific, and programmable biomarker detection. We summarize the advancements in biomarker detection using functionalized DNA origami, focusing on strategies for DNA origami functionalization, mechanisms of biomarker recognition, and applications in disease diagnosis and monitoring. These applications are organized into sections based on the type of biomarkers - nucleic acids, proteins, small molecules, and ions - and concludes with a discussion on the advantages and challenges associated with using functionalized DNA origami systems for biomarker detection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caiqing Yuan
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, 200233, China
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Fei Zhou
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Zhihao Xu
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Dunkai Wu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, 200233, China
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Pengfei Hou
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, 200233, China
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Donglei Yang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Li Pan
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Pengfei Wang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Martins ASG, Reis SD, Benson E, Domingues MM, Cortinhas J, Vidal Silva JA, Santos SD, Santos NC, Pêgo AP, Moreno PMD. Enhancing Neuronal Cell Uptake of Therapeutic Nucleic Acids with Tetrahedral DNA Nanostructures. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2309140. [PMID: 38342712 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
The successful translation of therapeutic nucleic acids (NAs) for the treatment of neurological disorders depends on their safe and efficient delivery to neural cells, in particular neurons. DNA nanostructures can be a promising NAs delivery vehicle. Nonetheless, the potential of DNA nanostructures for neuronal cell delivery of therapeutic NAs is unexplored. Here, tetrahedral DNA nanostructures (TDN) as siRNA delivery scaffolds to neuronal cells, exploring the influence of functionalization with two different reported neuronal targeting ligands: C4-3 RNA aptamer and Tet1 peptide are investigated. Nanostructures are characterized in vitro, as well as in silico using molecular dynamic simulations to better understand the overall TDN structural stability. Enhancement of neuronal cell uptake of TDN functionalized with the C4-3 Aptamer (TDN-Apt), not only in neuronal cell lines but also in primary neuronal cell cultures is demonstrated. Additionally, TDN and TDN-Apt nanostructures carrying siRNA are shown to promote silencing in a process aided by chloroquine-induced endosomal disruption. This work presents a thorough workflow for the structural and functional characterization of the proposed TDN as a nano-scaffold for neuronal delivery of therapeutic NAs and for targeting ligands evaluation, contributing to the future development of new neuronal drug delivery systems based on DNA nanostructures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana S G Martins
- i3S (Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde), Universidade do Porto, INEB (Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica), Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, Porto, 4200-465, Portugal
| | - Sara D Reis
- i3S (Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde), Universidade do Porto, INEB (Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica), Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Erik Benson
- SciLifeLab, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Tomtebodavägen 23, Solna, 171 65, Sweden
| | - Marco M Domingues
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Lisbon, 1649-028, Portugal
| | - João Cortinhas
- i3S (Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde), Universidade do Porto, INEB (Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica), Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Joana A Vidal Silva
- i3S (Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde), Universidade do Porto, INEB (Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica), Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Sofia D Santos
- i3S (Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde), Universidade do Porto, INEB (Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica), Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Nuno C Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Lisbon, 1649-028, Portugal
| | - Ana P Pêgo
- i3S (Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde), Universidade do Porto, INEB (Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica), Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar da Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Pedro M D Moreno
- i3S (Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde), Universidade do Porto, INEB (Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica), Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Safarkhani M, Ahmadi S, Ipakchi H, Saeb MR, Makvandi P, Ebrahimi Warkiani M, Rabiee N, Huh Y. Advancements in Aptamer-Driven DNA Nanostructures for Precision Drug Delivery. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2401617. [PMID: 38713753 PMCID: PMC11234471 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
DNA nanostructures exhibit versatile geometries and possess sophisticated capabilities not found in other nanomaterials. They serve as customizable nanoplatforms for orchestrating the spatial arrangement of molecular components, such as biomolecules, antibodies, or synthetic nanomaterials. This is achieved by incorporating oligonucleotides into the design of the nanostructure. In the realm of drug delivery to cancer cells, there is a growing interest in active targeting assays to enhance efficacy and selectivity. The active targeting approach involves a "key-lock" mechanism where the carrier, through its ligand, recognizes specific receptors on tumor cells, facilitating the release of drugs. Various DNA nanostructures, including DNA origami, Tetrahedral, nanoflower, cruciform, nanostar, nanocentipede, and nanococklebur, can traverse the lipid layer of the cell membrane, allowing cargo delivery to the nucleus. Aptamers, easily formed in vitro, are recognized for their targeted delivery capabilities due to their high selectivity for specific targets and low immunogenicity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the formation and modification of aptamer-modified DNA nanostructures within drug delivery systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moein Safarkhani
- NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, 100 Inha-ro, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemistry, Damghan University, Damghan, 36716-45667, Iran
| | - Sepideh Ahmadi
- NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, 100 Inha-ro, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Hossein Ipakchi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Mohammad Reza Saeb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medical University of Gdańsk, J. Hallera 107, Gdańsk, 80-416, Poland
| | - Pooyan Makvandi
- The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, 324000 Quzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Centre of Research Impact and Outreach, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140417, India
- Department of Biomaterials, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, SIMATS, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, India
| | - Majid Ebrahimi Warkiani
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices (IBMD), University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Navid Rabiee
- Department of Biomaterials, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, SIMATS, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, India
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - YunSuk Huh
- NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, 100 Inha-ro, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Reinsalu O, Ernits M, Linko V. Liposome-based hybrid drug delivery systems with DNA nanostructures and metallic nanoparticles. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:905-920. [PMID: 38962823 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2375389] [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: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This review discusses novel hybrid assemblies that are based on liposomal formulations. The focus is on the hybrid constructs that are formed through the integration of liposomes/vesicles with other nano-objects such as nucleic acid nanostructures and metallic nanoparticles. The aim is to introduce some of the recent, specific examples that bridge different technologies and thus may form a new platform for advanced drug delivery applications. AREAS COVERED We present selected examples of liposomal formulations combined with complex nanostructures either based on biomolecules like DNA origami or on metallic materials - metal/metal oxide/magnetic particles and metallic nanostructures, such as metal organic frameworks - together with their applications in drug delivery and beyond. EXPERT OPINION Merging the above-mentioned techniques could lead to development of drug delivery vehicles with the most desirable properties; multifunctionality, biocompatibility, high drug loading efficiency/accuracy/capacity, and stimuli-responsiveness. In the near future, we believe that especially the strategies combining dynamic, triggerable and programmable DNA nanostructures and liposomes could be used to create artificial liposome clusters for multiple applications such as examining protein-mediated interactions between lipid bilayers and channeling materials between liposomes for enhanced pharmacokinetic properties in drug delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olavi Reinsalu
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Mart Ernits
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Veikko Linko
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University School of Chemical Engineering, Espoo, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yu H, Han X, Wang W, Zhang Y, Xiang L, Bai D, Zhang L, Weng Z, Lv K, Song L, Luo W, Yin N, Zhang Y, Feng T, Wang L, Xie G. Modified Unit-Mediated Strand Displacement Reactions for Direct Detection of Single Nucleotide Variants in Active Double-Stranded DNA. ACS NANO 2024; 18:12401-12411. [PMID: 38701333 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c01511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Accurate identification of single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in key driver genes holds a significant value for disease diagnosis and treatment. Fluorescent probes exhibit tremendous potential in specific, high-resolution, and rapid detection of SNVs. However, additional steps are required in most post-PCR assays to convert double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) products into single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), enabling them to possess hybridization activity to trigger subsequent reactions. This process not only prolongs the complexity of the experiment but also introduces the risk of losing target information. In this study, we proposed two strategies for enriching active double-stranded DNA, involving PCR based on obstructive groups and cleavable units. Building upon this, we explored the impact of modified units on the strand displacement reaction (SDR) and assessed their discriminatory efficacy for mutations. The results showed that detection of low variant allele frequencies (VAF) as low as 0.1% can be achieved. The proposed strategy allowed orthogonal identification of 45 clinical colorectal cancer tissue samples with 100% specificity, and the results were generally consistent with sequencing results. Compared to existing methods for enriching active targets, our approach offers a more diverse set of enrichment strategies, characterized by the advantage of being simple and fast and preserving original information to the maximum extent. The objective of this study is to offer an effective solution for the swift and facile acquisition of active double-stranded DNA. We anticipate that our work will facilitate the practical applications of SDR based on dsDNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Yu
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiaole Han
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Weitao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yangli Zhang
- The Center for Clinical Molecular Medical Detection, Biobank Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Linguo Xiang
- The Center for Clinical Molecular Medical Detection, Biobank Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Dan Bai
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Zhi Weng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Ke Lv
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Lin Song
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Wang Luo
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Na Yin
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yaoyi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Tong Feng
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Li Wang
- The Center for Clinical Molecular Medical Detection, Biobank Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Guoming Xie
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Chinese Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zou W, Lu J, Zhang L, Sun D. Tetrahedral framework nucleic acids for improving wound healing. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:113. [PMID: 38491372 PMCID: PMC10943864 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02365-z] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Wounds are one of the most common health issues, and the cost of wound care and healing has continued to increase over the past decade. In recent years, there has been growing interest in developing innovative strategies to enhance the efficacy of wound healing. Tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs) have emerged as a promising tool for wound healing applications due to their unique structural and functional properties. Therefore, it is of great significance to summarize the applications of tFNAs for wound healing. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the potential of tFNAs as a novel therapeutic approach for wound healing. In this review, we discuss the possible mechanisms of tFNAs in wound healing and highlight the role of tFNAs in modulating key processes involved in wound healing, such as cell proliferation and migration, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration. The targeted delivery and controlled release capabilities of tFNAs offer advantages in terms of localized and sustained delivery of therapeutic agents to the wound site. In addition, the latest research progress on tFNAs in wound healing is systematically introduced. We also discuss the biocompatibility and biosafety of tFNAs, along with their potential applications and future directions for research. Finally, the current challenges and prospects of tFNAs are briefly discussed to promote wider applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wanqing Zou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China
- Key Specialty of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510699, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing Lu
- National and Local United Engineering Lab of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.
| | - Luyong Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Duanping Sun
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.
- Key Specialty of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510699, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Postigo A, Martínez-Vicente P, Baumann KN, Del Barrio J, Hernández-Ainsa S. Assessing the influence of small structural modifications in simple DNA-based nanostructures on their role as drug nanocarriers. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:1549-1557. [PMID: 38305143 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01987j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
DNA nanotechnology leverages Watson-Crick-Franklin base-pairing interactions to build complex DNA-based nanostructures (DNS). Due to DNA specific self-assembly properties, DNS can be designed with a total control of their architecture, which has been demonstrated to have an impact on the overall DNS features. Indeed, structural properties such as the shape, size and flexibility of DNS can influence their biostability as well as their ability to internalise into cells. We present here two series of simple DNS with small and precise variations related to their length or flexibility and study the influence that these structural changes have on their overall properties as drug nanocarriers. Results indicate that shorter and more flexible DNS present higher stability towards nuclease degradation. These structural changes also have a certain effect on their cell internalisation ability and drug release rate. Consequently, drug-loaded DNS cytotoxicity varies according to the design, with lower cell viability values obtained in the DNS exhibiting faster drug release and larger cell interaction rates. In summary, small changes in the structure of simple DNS can have an influence on their overall capabilities as drug nanocarriers. The effects reported here could guide the design of simple DNS for future therapeutic uses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Postigo
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón, CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain.
| | - Pablo Martínez-Vicente
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón, CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain.
| | | | - Jesús Del Barrio
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón, CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain.
| | - Silvia Hernández-Ainsa
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón, CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain.
- ARAID Foundation, Government of Aragon, Zaragoza 50018, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gao Y, Wang Y. Interplay of graphene-DNA interactions: Unveiling sensing potential of graphene materials. APPLIED PHYSICS REVIEWS 2024; 11:011306. [PMID: 38784221 PMCID: PMC11115426 DOI: 10.1063/5.0171364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Graphene-based materials and DNA probes/nanostructures have emerged as building blocks for constructing powerful biosensors. Graphene-based materials possess exceptional properties, including two-dimensional atomically flat basal planes for biomolecule binding. DNA probes serve as excellent selective probes, exhibiting specific recognition capabilities toward diverse target analytes. Meanwhile, DNA nanostructures function as placement scaffolds, enabling the precise organization of molecular species at nanoscale and the positioning of complex biomolecular assays. The interplay of DNA probes/nanostructures and graphene-based materials has fostered the creation of intricate hybrid materials with user-defined architectures. This advancement has resulted in significant progress in developing novel biosensors for detecting DNA, RNA, small molecules, and proteins, as well as for DNA sequencing. Consequently, a profound understanding of the interactions between DNA and graphene-based materials is key to developing these biological devices. In this review, we systematically discussed the current comprehension of the interaction between DNA probes and graphene-based materials, and elucidated the latest advancements in DNA probe-graphene-based biosensors. Additionally, we concisely summarized recent research endeavors involving the deposition of DNA nanostructures on graphene-based materials and explored imminent biosensing applications by seamlessly integrating DNA nanostructures with graphene-based materials. Finally, we delineated the primary challenges and provided prospective insights into this rapidly developing field. We envision that this review will aid researchers in understanding the interactions between DNA and graphene-based materials, gaining deeper insight into the biosensing mechanisms of DNA-graphene-based biosensors, and designing novel biosensors for desired applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanjing Gao
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Yichun Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Dorey A, Howorka S. Nanopore DNA sequencing technologies and their applications towards single-molecule proteomics. Nat Chem 2024; 16:314-334. [PMID: 38448507 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-023-01322-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Sequencing of nucleic acids with nanopores has emerged as a powerful tool offering rapid readout, high accuracy, low cost and portability. This label-free method for sequencing at the single-molecule level is an achievement on its own. However, nanopores also show promise for the technologically even more challenging sequencing of polypeptides, something that could considerably benefit biological discovery, clinical diagnostics and homeland security, as current techniques lack portability and speed. Here we survey the biochemical innovations underpinning commercial and academic nanopore DNA/RNA sequencing techniques, and explore how these advances can fuel developments in future protein sequencing with nanopores.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Dorey
- Department of Chemistry & Institute of Structural Molecular Biology, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Stefan Howorka
- Department of Chemistry & Institute of Structural Molecular Biology, University College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ma Y, Wang Q, Du S, Luo J, Sun X, Jia B, Ge J, Dong J, Jiang S, Li Z. Multipathway Regulation for Targeted Atherosclerosis Therapy Using Anti-miR-33-Loaded DNA Origami. ACS NANO 2024. [PMID: 38321605 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c10213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Given the multifactorial pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (AS), a chronic inflammatory disease, combination therapy arises as a compelling approach to effectively address the complex interplay of pathogenic mechanisms for a more desired treatment outcome. Here, we present cRGD/ASOtDON, a nanoformulation based on a self-assembled DNA origami nanostructure for the targeted combination therapy of AS. cRGD/ASOtDON targets αvβ3 integrin receptors overexpressed on pro-inflammatory macrophages and activated endothelial cells in atherosclerotic lesions, alleviates the oxidative stress induced by extracellular and endogenous reactive oxygen species, facilitates the polarization of pro-inflammatory macrophages toward the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype, and inhibits foam cell formation by promoting cholesterol efflux from macrophages by downregulating miR-33. The antiatherosclerotic efficacy and safety profile of cRGD/ASOtDON, as well as its mechanism of action, were validated in an AS mouse model. cRGD/ASOtDON treatment reversed AS progression and restored normal morphology and tissue homeostasis of the diseased artery. Compared to probucol, a clinical antiatherosclerotic drug with a similar mechanism of action, cRGD/ASOtDON enabled the desired therapeutic outcome at a notably lower dosage. This study demonstrates the benefits of targeted combination therapy in AS management and the potential of self-assembled DNA nanoformulations in addressing multifactorial inflammatory conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
| | - Shiyu Du
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
| | - Jingwei Luo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolei Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
| | - Bin Jia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
| | - Jingru Ge
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
| | - Jun Dong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215004, P. R. China
| | - Shuoxing Jiang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
| | - Zhe Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Feng Y, Wang J, Cao J, Cao F, Chen X. Manipulating calcium homeostasis with nanoplatforms for enhanced cancer therapy. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2024; 4:20230019. [PMID: 38854493 PMCID: PMC10867402 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20230019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Calcium ions (Ca2+) are indispensable and versatile metal ions that play a pivotal role in regulating cell metabolism, encompassing cell survival, proliferation, migration, and gene expression. Aberrant Ca2+ levels are frequently linked to cell dysfunction and a variety of pathological conditions. Therefore, it is essential to maintain Ca2+ homeostasis to coordinate body function. Disrupting the balance of Ca2+ levels has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy for various diseases, and there has been extensive research on integrating this approach into nanoplatforms. In this review, the current nanoplatforms that regulate Ca2+ homeostasis for cancer therapy are first discussed, including both direct and indirect approaches to manage Ca2+ overload or inhibit Ca2+ signalling. Then, the applications of these nanoplatforms in targeting different cells to regulate their Ca2+ homeostasis for achieving therapeutic effects in cancer treatment are systematically introduced, including tumour cells and immune cells. Finally, perspectives on the further development of nanoplatforms for regulating Ca2+ homeostasis, identifying scientific limitations and future directions for exploitation are offered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanlin Feng
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, and the Department of PhysiologyShanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Jianlin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, and the Department of PhysiologyShanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Jimin Cao
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, and the Department of PhysiologyShanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Fangfang Cao
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and EngineeringNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and EngineeringNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR)Institute of Molecular and Cell BiologySingaporeSingapore
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Sun Z, Ren Y, Zhu W, Xiao Y, Wu H. DNA nanotechnology-based nucleic acid delivery systems for bioimaging and disease treatment. Analyst 2024; 149:599-613. [PMID: 38221846 DOI: 10.1039/d3an01871g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA, have been considered as powerful and functional biomaterials owing to their programmable structure, good biocompatibility, and ease of synthesis. However, traditional nucleic acid-based probes have always suffered from inherent limitations, including restricted cell internalization efficiency and structural instability. In recent years, DNA nanotechnology has shown great promise for the applications of bioimaging and drug delivery. The attractive superiorities of DNA nanostructures, such as precise geometries, spatial addressability, and improved biostability, have enabled them to be a novel category of nucleic acid delivery systems for biomedical applications. In this review, we introduce the development of DNA nanotechnology, and highlight recent advances of DNA nanostructure-based delivery systems for cellular imaging and therapeutic applications. Finally, we propose the challenges as well as opportunities for the future development of DNA nanotechnology in biomedical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaorong Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai'an, Shandong, 271000, China
| | - Yingjie Ren
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
| | - Wenjun Zhu
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
| | - Yuliang Xiao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
- Institute of Brain Science and Brain-inspired Research, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
| | - Han Wu
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
- Institute of Brain Science and Brain-inspired Research, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kosara S, Singh R, Bhatia D. Structural DNA nanotechnology at the nexus of next-generation bio-applications: challenges and perspectives. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:386-401. [PMID: 38235105 PMCID: PMC10790967 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00692a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
DNA nanotechnology has significantly progressed in the last four decades, creating nucleic acid structures widely used in various biological applications. The structural flexibility, programmability, and multiform customization of DNA-based nanostructures make them ideal for creating structures of all sizes and shapes and multivalent drug delivery systems. Since then, DNA nanotechnology has advanced significantly, and numerous DNA nanostructures have been used in biology and other scientific disciplines. Despite the progress made in DNA nanotechnology, challenges still need to be addressed before DNA nanostructures can be widely used in biological interfaces. We can open the door for upcoming uses of DNA nanoparticles by tackling these issues and looking into new avenues. The historical development of various DNA nanomaterials has been thoroughly examined in this review, along with the underlying theoretical underpinnings, a summary of their applications in various fields, and an examination of the current roadblocks and potential future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Kosara
- Department of Biological Sciences and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar Palaj Gujarat 382355 India
| | - Ramesh Singh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Colorado State University Fort Collins CO USA
| | - Dhiraj Bhatia
- Department of Biological Sciences and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar Palaj Gujarat 382355 India
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Yu L, Xu Y, Al-Amin M, Jiang S, Sample M, Prasad A, Stephanopoulos N, Šulc P, Yan H. CytoDirect: A Nucleic Acid Nanodevice for Specific and Efficient Delivery of Functional Payloads to the Cytoplasm. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:27336-27347. [PMID: 38055928 PMCID: PMC10789493 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c07491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Direct and efficient delivery of functional payloads such as chemotherapy drugs, siRNA, or small-molecule inhibitors into the cytoplasm, bypassing the endo/lysosomal trapping, is a challenging task for intracellular medicine. Here, we take advantage of the programmability of DNA nanotechnology to develop a DNA nanodevice called CytoDirect, which incorporates disulfide units and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) affibodies into a DNA origami nanostructure, enabling rapid cytosolic uptake into targeted cancer cells and deep tissue penetration. We further demonstrated that therapeutic oligonucleotides and small-molecule chemotherapy drugs can be easily delivered by CytoDirect and showed notable effects on gene knockdown and cell apoptosis, respectively. This study demonstrates the synergistic effect of disulfide and HER2 affibody modifications on the rapid cytosolic delivery of DNA origami and its payloads to targeted cells and deep tissues, thereby expanding the delivery capabilities of DNA nanostructures in a new direction for disease treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yu
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85281, United States
| | - Yang Xu
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85281, United States
| | - Md Al-Amin
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85281, United States
| | - Shuoxing Jiang
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85281, United States
| | - Matthew Sample
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85281, United States
| | - Abhay Prasad
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85281, United States
| | - Nicholas Stephanopoulos
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85281, United States
| | - Petr Šulc
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85281, United States
| | - Hao Yan
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85281, United States
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Xu Z, Dong Y, Ma N, Zhu X, Zhang X, Yin H, Chen S, Zhu JJ, Tian Y, Min Q. Confinement in Dual-Chain-Locked DNA Origami Nanocages Programs Marker-Responsive Delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 Ribonucleoproteins. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:26557-26568. [PMID: 38039555 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c04074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) offers a powerful tool for therapeutic genome editing. However, precise manipulation of CRISPR/Cas9 RNPs to switch the machinery on and off according to diverse disease microenvironments remains challenging. Here, we present dual-chain-locked DNA origami nanocages (DL-DONCs) that can confine Cas9 RNPs in the inner cavity for efficient cargo delivery and dual-marker-responsive genome editing in the specified pathological states. By engineering of ATP or miRNA-21-responsive dsDNAs as chain locks on the DONCs, the permeability of nanocages and accessibility of encapsulated Cas9 RNPs can be finely regulated. The resulting DL-DONCs enabled steric protection of bioactive Cas9 RNPs from premature release and deactivation during transportation while dismounting the dual chain locks in response to molecular triggers after internalization into tumor cells, facilitating the escape of Cas9 RNPs from the confinement for gene editing. Due to the dual-marker-dominated uncaging mechanism, the gene editing efficiency could be exclusively determined by the combined level of ATP and miRNA-21 in the target cellular environment. By targeting the tumor-associated PLK-1 gene, the DL-DONCs-enveloped Cas9 RNPs have demonstrated superior inhibitory effects on the proliferation of tumor cells in vitro and in vivo. The developed DL-DONCs provide a custom-made platform for the precise manipulation of Cas9 RNPs, which can be potentially applied to on-demand gene editing for classified therapy in response to arbitrary disease-associated biomolecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxiang Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People's Republic of China
| | - Ningning Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People's Republic of China
| | - Xurong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiqing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Jie Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianhao Min
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Julin S, Best N, Anaya-Plaza E, Enlund E, Linko V, Kostiainen MA. Assembly and optically triggered disassembly of lipid-DNA origami fibers. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:14701-14704. [PMID: 37997149 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc04677j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The co-assembly of lipids and other compounds has recently gained increasing interest. Here, we report the formation of stimuli-responsive lipid-DNA origami fibers through the electrostatic co-assembly of cationic lipids and 6-helix bundle (6HB) DNA origami. The photosensitive lipid degrades when exposed to UV-A light, which allows a photoinduced, controlled release of the 6HBs from the fibers. The presented complexation strategy may find uses in developing responsive nanomaterials e.g. for therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Julin
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
| | - Nadine Best
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
- Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64289 Darmstadt, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Microengineering and Microsystems IMM, 55129 Mainz, Germany
| | - Eduardo Anaya-Plaza
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
| | - Eeva Enlund
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
| | - Veikko Linko
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Mauri A Kostiainen
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
- LIBER Center of Excellence, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Petrovic SM, Barbinta-Patrascu ME. Organic and Biogenic Nanocarriers as Bio-Friendly Systems for Bioactive Compounds' Delivery: State-of-the Art and Challenges. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:7550. [PMID: 38138692 PMCID: PMC10744464 DOI: 10.3390/ma16247550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
"Green" strategies to build up novel organic nanocarriers with bioperformance are modern trends in nanotechnology. In this way, the valorization of bio-wastes and the use of living systems to develop multifunctional organic and biogenic nanocarriers (OBNs) have revolutionized the nanotechnological and biomedical fields. This paper is a comprehensive review related to OBNs for bioactives' delivery, providing an overview of the reports on the past two decades. In the first part, several classes of bioactive compounds and their therapeutic role are briefly presented. A broad section is dedicated to the main categories of organic and biogenic nanocarriers. The major challenges regarding the eco-design and the fate of OBNs are suggested to overcome some toxicity-related drawbacks. Future directions and opportunities, and finding "green" solutions for solving the problems related to nanocarriers, are outlined in the final of this paper. We believe that through this review, we will capture the attention of the readers and will open new perspectives for new solutions/ideas for the discovery of more efficient and "green" ways in developing novel bioperformant nanocarriers for transporting bioactive agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanja M. Petrovic
- Department of Chemical Technologies, Faculty of Technology, University of Nis, Bulevar Oslobodjenja 124, 1600 Leskovac, Serbia;
| | - Marcela-Elisabeta Barbinta-Patrascu
- Department of Electricity, Solid-State Physics and Biophysics, Faculty of Physics, University of Bucharest, 405 Atomistilor Street, P.O. Box MG-11, 077125 Măgurele, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wu T, Wang H, Tian R, Guo S, Liao Y, Liu J, Ding B. A DNA Origami-based Bactericide for Efficient Healing of Infected Wounds. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202311698. [PMID: 37755438 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202311698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Bacteria infection is a significant obstacle in the clinical treatment of exposed wounds facing widespread pathogens. Herein, we report a DNA origami-based bactericide for efficient anti-infection therapy of infected wounds in vivo. In our design, abundant DNAzymes (G4/hemin) can be precisely organized on the DNA origami for controllable generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to break bacterial membranes. After the destruction of the membrane, broad-spectrum antibiotic levofloxacin (LEV, loaded in the DNA origami through interaction with DNA duplex) can be easily delivered into the bacteria for successful sterilization. With the incorporation of DNA aptamer targeting bacterial peptidoglycan, the DNA origami-based bactericide can achieve targeted and combined antibacterial therapy for efficiently promoting the healing of infected wounds. This tailored DNA origami-based nanoplatform provides a new strategy for the treatment of infectious diseases in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, 100190, Beijing, China
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510091, Guangzhou, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan Medical University, 570228, Haikou, China
| | - Hong Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, 100190, Beijing, China
| | - Run Tian
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, 100190, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Guo
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510091, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhui Liao
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510091, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianbing Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, 100190, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Baoquan Ding
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, 100190, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Unida V, Mangano E, Camboni T, Consolandi C, Desideri A, Severgnini M, Cifola I, Biocca S. Insights on the molecular mechanisms of cytotoxicity induced by AS1411 linked to folate-functionalized DNA nanocages in cancer cells. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2023; 54:102710. [PMID: 37734452 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2023.102710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Self-assembled multivalent DNA nanocages are an emerging class of molecules useful for biomedicine applications. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of cytotoxicity induced by AS1411 free aptamer, AS1411-linked nanocages (Apt-NCs) and nanocages harboring both folate and AS1411 functionalization (Fol-Apt-NCs) in HeLa and MDA-MB-231 cancer cell lines. The three treatments showed different cytotoxic efficacy and Fol-Apt-NCs resulted the most effective in inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptotic pathways and ROS activation in both HeLa and MDA-MB-231 cells. RNA-seq analysis allowed to identify biological functions and genes altered by the various treatments, depending on the AS1411 route of intracellular entry, highlighting the different behavior of the two cancer cell lines. Notably, Fol-Apt-NCs altered the expression of a subset of genes associated to cancer chemoresistance in MDA-MB-231, but not in HeLa cells, and this may explain the increased chemosensitivity to drugs delivered through DNA nanocages of the triple-negative breast cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Unida
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Mangano
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies (ITB), National Research Council (CNR), via F.lli Cervi 93, 20054 Segrate, Milan, Italy.
| | - Tania Camboni
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies (ITB), National Research Council (CNR), via F.lli Cervi 93, 20054 Segrate, Milan, Italy.
| | - Clarissa Consolandi
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies (ITB), National Research Council (CNR), via F.lli Cervi 93, 20054 Segrate, Milan, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Desideri
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - Marco Severgnini
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies (ITB), National Research Council (CNR), via F.lli Cervi 93, 20054 Segrate, Milan, Italy.
| | - Ingrid Cifola
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies (ITB), National Research Council (CNR), via F.lli Cervi 93, 20054 Segrate, Milan, Italy.
| | - Silvia Biocca
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Baral B, Panigrahi B, Kar A, Tulsiyan KD, Suryakant U, Mandal D, Subudhi U. Peptide nanostructures-based delivery of DNA nanomaterial therapeutics for regulating gene expression. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 33:493-510. [PMID: 37583574 PMCID: PMC10424151 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Self-assembled branched DNA (bDNA) nanomaterials have exhibited their functionality in various biomedical and diagnostic applications. However, the anionic cellular membrane has restricted the movement of bDNA nanostructures. Recently, amphiphilic peptides have been investigated as cationic delivery agents for nucleic acids. Herein, we demonstrate a strategy for delivering functional bDNA nanomaterials into mammalian cells using self-assembled linear peptides. In this study, antisense oligonucleotides of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were inserted in the overhangs of bDNAs. Novel linear peptides have been synthesized and the peptide-bound bDNA complex formation was examined using various biophysical experiments. Interestingly, the W4R4-bound bDNAs were found to be exceptionally stable against DNase I compared to other complexes. The delivery of fluorescent-labeled bDNAs into the mammalian cells confirmed the potential of peptide transporters. Furthermore, the functional efficacy of the peptide-bound bDNAs has been examined through RT-PCR and western blot analysis. The observed results revealed that W4R4 peptides exhibited excellent internalization of antisense bDNAs and significantly suppressed (3- to 4-fold) the transcripts and translated product of VEGF compared to the control. In summary, the results highlight the potential use of peptide-based nanocarrier for delivering bDNA nanostructures to regulate the gene expression in cell lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bineeth Baral
- DNA Nanotechnology & Application Laboratory, Environment & Sustainability Department, CSIR-Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar 751013, Odisha, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Bijayananda Panigrahi
- School of Biotechnology, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
- Biopioneer Private Limited, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Avishek Kar
- DNA Nanotechnology & Application Laboratory, Environment & Sustainability Department, CSIR-Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar 751013, Odisha, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Kiran D. Tulsiyan
- School of Chemical Sciences, National Institute of Science Education & Research, Bhubaneswar 752050, India
- Homi Bhaba National Institute, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Uday Suryakant
- School of Biotechnology, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Dindyal Mandal
- School of Biotechnology, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Umakanta Subudhi
- DNA Nanotechnology & Application Laboratory, Environment & Sustainability Department, CSIR-Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar 751013, Odisha, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Lee H, Noh H. Advancements in Nanogels for Enhanced Ocular Drug Delivery: Cutting-Edge Strategies to Overcome Eye Barriers. Gels 2023; 9:718. [PMID: 37754399 PMCID: PMC10529109 DOI: 10.3390/gels9090718] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanomedicine in gel or particle formation holds considerable potential for enhancing passive and active targeting within ocular drug delivery systems. The complex barriers of the eye, exemplified by the intricate network of closely connected tissue structures, pose significant challenges for drug administration. Leveraging the capability of engineered nanomedicine offers a promising approach to enhance drug penetration, particularly through active targeting agents such as protein peptides and aptamers, which facilitate targeted release and heightened bioavailability. Simultaneously, DNA carriers have emerged as a cutting-edge class of active-targeting structures, connecting active targeting agents and illustrating their potential in ocular drug delivery applications. This review aims to consolidate recent findings regarding the optimization of various nanoparticles, i.e., hydrogel-based systems, incorporating both passive and active targeting agents for ocular drug delivery, thereby identifying novel mechanisms and strategies. Furthermore, the review delves into the potential application of DNA nanostructures, exploring their role in the development of targeted drug delivery approaches within the field of ocular therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hyeran Noh
- Department of Optometry, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Gongnung-ro 232, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01811, Republic of Korea;
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Nixon SR, Phukan IK, Armijo BJ, Ebrahimi SB, Samanta D. Proximity-Driven DNA Nanosensors. ECS SENSORS PLUS 2023; 2:030601. [PMID: 37424706 PMCID: PMC10323711 DOI: 10.1149/2754-2726/ace068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
In proximity-driven sensing, interactions between a probe and an analyte produce a detectable signal by causing a change in distance of two probe components or signaling moieties. By interfacing such systems with DNA-based nanostructures, platforms that are highly sensitive, specific, and programmable can be designed. In this Perspective, we delineate the advantages of using DNA building blocks in proximity-driven nanosensors and provide an overview of recent progress in the field, from sensors that rapidly detect pesticides in food to probes that identify rare cancer cells in blood. We also discuss current challenges and identify key areas that need further development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara R. Nixon
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Imon Kanta Phukan
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Brian J. Armijo
- Department of Chemistry, Southwestern University, Georgetown, TX 78626, United States of America
| | - Sasha B. Ebrahimi
- Drug Product Development—Steriles, GlaxoSmithKline, Collegeville, PA 19426, United States of America
| | - Devleena Samanta
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Zare I, Taheri-Ledari R, Esmailzadeh F, Salehi MM, Mohammadi A, Maleki A, Mostafavi E. DNA hydrogels and nanogels for diagnostics, therapeutics, and theragnostics of various cancers. NANOSCALE 2023. [PMID: 37337663 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr00425b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
As an efficient class of hydrogel-based therapeutic drug delivery systems, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) hydrogels (particularly DNA nanogels) have attracted massive attention in the last five years. The main contributor to this is the programmability of these 3-dimensional (3D) scaffolds that creates fundamental effects, especially in treating cancer diseases. Like other active biological ingredients (ABIs), DNA hydrogels can be functionalized with other active agents that play a role in targeting drug delivery and modifying the half-life of the therapeutic cargoes in the body's internal environment. Considering the brilliant advantages of DNA hydrogels, in this survey, we intend to submit an informative collection of feasible methods for the design and preparation of DNA hydrogels and nanogels, and the responsivity of the immune system to these therapeutic cargoes. Moreover, the interactions of DNA hydrogels with cancer biomarkers are discussed in this account. Theragnostic DNA nanogels as an advanced species for both detection and therapeutic purposes are also briefly reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iman Zare
- Research and Development Department, Sina Medical Biochemistry Technologies Co. Ltd., Shiraz 7178795844, Iran
| | - Reza Taheri-Ledari
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, 16846-13114, Iran
| | - Farhad Esmailzadeh
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, 16846-13114, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Salehi
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, 16846-13114, Iran
| | - Adibeh Mohammadi
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, 16846-13114, Iran
| | - Ali Maleki
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, 16846-13114, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
DNA nanotechnology enables straightforward fabrication of user-defined and nanometer-precise templates for a cornucopia of different uses. To date, most of these DNA assemblies have been static, but dynamic structures are increasingly coming into view. The programmability of DNA not only allows for encoding of the DNA object shape but also it may be equally used in defining the mechanism of action and the type of stimuli-responsiveness of the dynamic structures. However, these "robotic" features of DNA nanostructures are usually demonstrated for only small, discrete, and device-like objects rather than for collectively behaving higher-order systems. Here, we show how a large-scale, two-dimensional (2D) and pH-responsive DNA origami-based lattice can be assembled into two different configurations ("open" and "closed" states) on a mica substrate and further switched from one to the other distinct state upon a pH change of the surrounding solution. The control over these two configurations is achieved by equipping the arms of the lattice-forming DNA origami units with "pH-latches" that form Hoogsteen-type triplexes at low pH. In short, we demonstrate how the electrostatic control over the adhesion and mobility of the DNA origami units on the surface can be used both in the large lattice formation (with the help of directed polymerization) and in the conformational switching of the whole lattice. To further emphasize the feasibility of the method, we also demonstrate the formation of pH-responsive 2D gold nanoparticle lattices. We believe this work can bridge the nanometer-precise DNA origami templates and higher-order large-scale systems with the stimuli-induced dynamicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Julin
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 00076 Aalto, Finland
| | - Veikko Linko
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 00076 Aalto, Finland
- LIBER Center of Excellence, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 00076 Aalto, Finland
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Mauri A Kostiainen
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 00076 Aalto, Finland
- LIBER Center of Excellence, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 00076 Aalto, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Baral B, Nial PS, Subudhi U. Enhanced enzymatic activity and conformational stability of catalase in presence of tetrahedral DNA nanostructures: A biophysical and kinetic study. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 242:124677. [PMID: 37141969 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124677] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of DNA nanotechnology has shown enormous potential in a vast array of applications, particularly in the medicinal and theranostics fields. Nevertheless, the knowledge of the compatibility between DNA nanostructures and cellular proteins is largely unknown. Herein, we report the biophysical interaction between proteins (circulatory protein bovine serum albumin, BSA, and the cellular enzyme bovine liver catalase, BLC) and tetrahedral DNA (tDNAs), which are well-known nanocarriers for therapeutics. Interestingly, the secondary conformation of BSA or BLC was unaltered in the presence of tDNAs which supports the biocompatible property of tDNA. In addition, thermodynamic studies showed that the binding of tDNAs with BLC has a stable non-covalent interaction via hydrogen bond and van der Waals contact, which is indicative of a spontaneous reaction. Furthermore, the catalytic activity of BLC was increased in the presence of tDNAs during 24 h of incubation. These findings indicate that the presence of tDNA nanostructures not only ensures a steady secondary conformation of proteins, but also stabilize the intracellular proteins like BLC. Surprisingly, our investigation discovered that tDNAs have no effect on albumin proteins, either by interfering or by adhering to the extracellular proteins. These findings will aid in the design of future DNA nanostructures for biomedical applications by increasing the knowledge on the biocompatible interaction of tDNAs with biomacromolecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bineeth Baral
- DNA Nanotechnology & Application Laboratory, CSIR-Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar 751013, Odisha, India; School of Biological Sciences, Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Partha S Nial
- DNA Nanotechnology & Application Laboratory, CSIR-Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar 751013, Odisha, India; School of Biological Sciences, Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Umakanta Subudhi
- DNA Nanotechnology & Application Laboratory, CSIR-Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar 751013, Odisha, India; School of Biological Sciences, Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Cao S, Lin L, Zhao Y, Guo L, Zhu Y, Wang L, Li J. Programming Aggregate States of DNA Nanorods with Sub-10 nm Hydrophobic Patterns for Tunable Cell Entry. JACS AU 2023; 3:1004-1009. [PMID: 37124296 PMCID: PMC10131207 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.3c00097] [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: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The intracellular application of DNA nanodevices is challenged by their inadequate cellular entry efficiency, which may be addressed by the development of amphiphilic DNA nanostructures. However, the impact of the spatial distribution of hydrophobicity in cell entry has not been fully explored. Here, we program a spectrum of amphiphilic DNA nanostructures displaying diverse sub-10 nm patterns of cholesterol, which result in distinct aggregate states in the aqueous solution and thus varied cell entry efficiencies. We find that the hydrophobic patterns can lead to discrete aggregate states, from monomers to low-number oligomers (n = 1-6). We demonstrate that the monomers or oligomers with moderate hydrophobic density are preferred for cell entry, with up to ∼174-fold improvement relative to unmodified ones. Our study provides a new clue for the rational design of amphiphilic DNA nanostructures for intracellular applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuting Cao
- Division
of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and
Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied
Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- The
Interdisciplinary Research Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation
Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Lixuan Lin
- Division
of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and
Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied
Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- The
Interdisciplinary Research Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation
Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Institute
of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Linjie Guo
- The
Interdisciplinary Research Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation
Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
- Institute
of Materials Biology, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Division
of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and
Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied
Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- The
Interdisciplinary Research Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation
Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
- Institute
of Materials Biology, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Lihua Wang
- Division
of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and
Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied
Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- The
Interdisciplinary Research Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation
Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
- Institute
of Materials Biology, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Jiang Li
- Division
of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and
Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied
Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- The
Interdisciplinary Research Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation
Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
- Institute
of Materials Biology, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Shishparenok AN, Furman VV, Zhdanov DD. DNA-Based Nanomaterials as Drug Delivery Platforms for Increasing the Effect of Drugs in Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2151. [PMID: 37046816 PMCID: PMC10093432 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA nanotechnology has significantly advanced and might be used in biomedical applications, drug delivery, and cancer treatment during the past few decades. DNA nanomaterials are widely used in biomedical research involving biosensing, bioimaging, and drug delivery since they are remarkably addressable and biocompatible. Gradually, modified nucleic acids have begun to be employed to construct multifunctional DNA nanostructures with a variety of architectural designs. Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acids (both DNAs and RNAs) capable of self-pairing to acquire secondary structure and of specifically binding with the target. Diagnosis and tumor therapy are prospective fields in which aptamers can be applied. Many DNA nanomaterials with three-dimensional structures have been studied as drug delivery systems for different anticancer medications or gene therapy agents. Different chemical alterations can be employed to construct a wide range of modified DNA nanostructures. Chemically altered DNA-based nanomaterials are useful for drug delivery because of their improved stability and inclusion of functional groups. In this work, the most common oligonucleotide nanomaterials were reviewed as modern drug delivery systems in tumor cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiya N. Shishparenok
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya St. 10/8, 119121 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vitalina V. Furman
- Center of Chemical Engineering, ITMO University, Kronverkskiy Prospekt 49A, 197101 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Dmitry D. Zhdanov
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya St. 10/8, 119121 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Biochemistry, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Miklukho-Maklaya St. 6, 117198 Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Ding F, Zhang S, Chen Q, Feng H, Ge Z, Zuo X, Fan C, Li Q, Xia Q. Immunomodulation with Nucleic Acid Nanodevices. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2206228. [PMID: 36599642 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202206228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The precise regulation of interactions of specific immunological components is crucial for controllable immunomodulation, yet it remains a great challenge. With the assistance of advanced computer design, programmable nucleic acid nanotechnology enables the customization of synthetic nucleic acid nanodevices with unprecedented geometrical and functional precision, which have shown promising potential for precise immunoengineering. Notably, the inherently immunologic functions of nucleic acids endow these nucleic acid-based assemblies with innate advantages in immunomodulatory engagement. In this review, the roles of nucleic acids in innate immunity are discussed, focusing on the definition, immunologic modularity, and enhanced bioavailability of structural nucleic acid nanodevices. In light of this, molecular programming and precise organization of functional modules with nucleic acid nanodevices for immunomodulation are emphatically reviewed. At last, the present challenges and future perspectives of nucleic acid nanodevices for immunomodulation are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Ding
- Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Department of Liver Surgery, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Shuangye Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Qian Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Department of Liver Surgery, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Hao Feng
- Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Department of Liver Surgery, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Zhilei Ge
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolei Zuo
- Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Department of Liver Surgery, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Chunhai Fan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Qian Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
- WLA Laboratories, World Laureates Association, Shanghai, 201203, P. R. China
| | - Qiang Xia
- Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Department of Liver Surgery, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Lachance‐Brais C, Rammal M, Asohan J, Katolik A, Luo X, Saliba D, Jonderian A, Damha MJ, Harrington MJ, Sleiman HF. Small Molecule-Templated DNA Hydrogel with Record Stiffness Integrates and Releases DNA Nanostructures and Gene Silencing Nucleic Acids. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2205713. [PMID: 36752390 PMCID: PMC10131789 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202205713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) hydrogels are a unique class of programmable, biocompatible materials able to respond to complex stimuli, making them valuable in drug delivery, analyte detection, cell growth, and shape-memory materials. However, unmodified DNA hydrogels in the literature are very soft, rarely reaching a storage modulus of 103 Pa, and they lack functionality, limiting their applications. Here, a DNA/small-molecule motif to create stiff hydrogels from unmodified DNA, reaching 105 Pa in storage modulus is used. The motif consists of an interaction between polyadenine and cyanuric acid-which has 3-thymine like faces-into multimicrometer supramolecular fibers. The mechanical properties of these hydrogels are readily tuned, they are self-healing and thixotropic. They integrate a high density of small, nontoxic molecules, and are functionalized simply by varying the molecule sidechain. They respond to three independent stimuli, including a small molecule stimulus. These stimuli are used to integrate and release DNA wireframe and DNA origami nanostructures within the hydrogel. The hydrogel is applied as an injectable delivery vector, releasing an antisense oligonucleotide in cells, and increasing its gene silencing efficacy. This work provides tunable, stimuli-responsive, exceptionally stiff all-DNA hydrogels from simple sequences, extending these materials' capabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mostafa Rammal
- Department of ChemistryMcGill University801 Sherbrooke St WMontrealH3A 0B8Canada
| | - Jathavan Asohan
- Department of ChemistryMcGill University801 Sherbrooke St WMontrealH3A 0B8Canada
| | - Adam Katolik
- Department of ChemistryMcGill University801 Sherbrooke St WMontrealH3A 0B8Canada
| | - Xin Luo
- Department of ChemistryMcGill University801 Sherbrooke St WMontrealH3A 0B8Canada
| | - Daniel Saliba
- Department of ChemistryMcGill University801 Sherbrooke St WMontrealH3A 0B8Canada
| | - Antranik Jonderian
- Department of ChemistryMcGill University801 Sherbrooke St WMontrealH3A 0B8Canada
| | - Masad J. Damha
- Department of ChemistryMcGill University801 Sherbrooke St WMontrealH3A 0B8Canada
| | | | - Hanadi F. Sleiman
- Department of ChemistryMcGill University801 Sherbrooke St WMontrealH3A 0B8Canada
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Langlois NI, Ma KY, Clark HA. Nucleic acid nanostructures for in vivo applications: The influence of morphology on biological fate. APPLIED PHYSICS REVIEWS 2023; 10:011304. [PMID: 36874908 PMCID: PMC9869343 DOI: 10.1063/5.0121820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The development of programmable biomaterials for use in nanofabrication represents a major advance for the future of biomedicine and diagnostics. Recent advances in structural nanotechnology using nucleic acids have resulted in dramatic progress in our understanding of nucleic acid-based nanostructures (NANs) for use in biological applications. As the NANs become more architecturally and functionally diverse to accommodate introduction into living systems, there is a need to understand how critical design features can be controlled to impart desired performance in vivo. In this review, we survey the range of nucleic acid materials utilized as structural building blocks (DNA, RNA, and xenonucleic acids), the diversity of geometries for nanofabrication, and the strategies to functionalize these complexes. We include an assessment of the available and emerging characterization tools used to evaluate the physical, mechanical, physiochemical, and biological properties of NANs in vitro. Finally, the current understanding of the obstacles encountered along the in vivo journey is contextualized to demonstrate how morphological features of NANs influence their biological fates. We envision that this summary will aid researchers in the designing novel NAN morphologies, guide characterization efforts, and design of experiments and spark interdisciplinary collaborations to fuel advancements in programmable platforms for biological applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole I. Langlois
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Kristine Y. Ma
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Mao H, Cao Y, Zou Z, Xia J, Zhao J. An enzyme-powered microRNA discriminator for the subtype-specific diagnosis of breast cancer. Chem Sci 2023; 14:2097-2106. [PMID: 36845930 PMCID: PMC9944337 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc00090g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer, a disease with highly heterogeneous features, is the most common malignancy diagnosed in people worldwide. Early diagnosis of breast cancer is crucial for improving its cure rate, and accurate classification of the subtype-specific features is essential to precisely treat the disease. An enzyme-powered microRNA (miRNA, RNA = ribonucleic acid) discriminator was developed to selectively distinguish breast cancer cells from normal cells and further identify subtype-specific features. Specifically, miR-21 was used as a universal biomarker to discriminate between breast cancer cells and normal cells, and miR-210 was used to identify triple-negative subtype features. The experimental results demonstrated that the enzyme-powered miRNA discriminator displayed low limits of detection at fM levels for both miR-21 and miR-210. Moreover, the miRNA discriminator enabled the discrimination and quantitative determination of breast cancer cells derived from different subtypes based on their miR-21 levels, and the further identification of the triple-negative subtype in combination with the miR-210 levels. Therefore, it is hoped that this study will provide insight into subtype-specific miRNA profiling, which may have potential use in the clinical management of breast tumours based on their subtype characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huiru Mao
- Center for Molecular Recognition and Biosensing, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University Shanghai 200444 P. R. China
| | - Ya Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing UniversityNanjing 210023P. R. China
| | - Zihan Zou
- Center for Molecular Recognition and Biosensing, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University Shanghai 200444 P. R. China
| | - Jianan Xia
- Center for Molecular Recognition and Biosensing, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University Shanghai 200444 P. R. China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Center for Molecular Recognition and Biosensing, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University Shanghai 200444 P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Li JJ, Du WF, Liu YN, Wang F, Tang LJ, Jiang JH. Protein-Scaffolded DNA Nanostructures for Imaging of Apurinic/Apyrimidinic Endonuclease 1 Activity in Live Cells. Anal Chem 2023; 95:3551-3555. [PMID: 36774652 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c05504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acids are valuable tools for intracellular biomarker detection and gene regulation. Here we propose a new type of protein (avidin)-scaffolded DNA nanostructure (ADN) for imaging the activity of apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1) in live cells. ADN is designed by assembling an avidin-displayed abasic site containing DNA strands labeled with a fluorophore or a quencher via a complementary linker strand. ADN is nonemissive due to the close proximity of fluorophores and quenchers. APE1-mediated cleavage separates the fluorophores from the quenchers, delivering activated fluorescence. In vitro assays show that ADN is responsive to APE1 with high sensitivity and high specificity. ADN can efficiently enter the cells, and its capability to visualize and detect intracellular APE1 activities is demonstrated in drug-treated cells and different cell lines. The modular and easy preparation of our nanostructures would afford a valuable platform for imaging and detecting APE1 activities in live cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing & Chemometrics, College of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Fang Du
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing & Chemometrics, College of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Ning Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing & Chemometrics, College of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, People's Republic of China
| | - Fenglin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing & Chemometrics, College of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Juan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing & Chemometrics, College of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Hui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing & Chemometrics, College of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Prajapati A, Srivastava A, Sankaranarayanan SA, Pebam M, Buddhiraju HS, Patra P, Yadav P, Joshi H, Rengan AK. High-Affinity DNA Nanomatrix: A Platform Technology for Synergistic Drug Delivery and Photothermal Therapy. ACS Macro Lett 2023; 12:255-262. [PMID: 36723076 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.2c00642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of nucleosome/nucleotide intercalating drugs, DNA-based nanocarriers have recently gained impetus. However, most of the newly proposed DNA nanosystems are rather complex, thereby having low scalability and translatability. In this study, we propose a simple DNA nanomatrix core encapsulated within a chitosan shell, which is expected to enhance the encapsulation efficiency of intercalating drugs. This has been demonstrated using proflavine hemisulfate (PfHS), a model intercalating agent that shows improved ROS generation, among other anticancerous properties. The release of the drug from the nanomatrix is triggered by providing a heat trigger using IR-792 perchlorate, a known NIR photothermal sensitizer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akshit Prajapati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana 502284, India
| | - Aditya Srivastava
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana 502284, India
| | - Sri Amruthaa Sankaranarayanan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana 502284, India
| | - Monika Pebam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana 502284, India
| | - Hima Sree Buddhiraju
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana 502284, India
| | - Paloma Patra
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana 502284, India
| | - Priyanka Yadav
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana 502284, India
| | - Himanshu Joshi
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana 502284, India
| | - Aravind Kumar Rengan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana 502284, India
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Ghani MW, Iqbal A, Ghani H, Bibi S, Wang Z, Pei R. Recent advances in nanocomposite-based delivery systems for targeted CRISPR/Cas delivery and therapeutic genetic manipulation. J Mater Chem B 2023. [PMID: 36779580 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb02610d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas systems are novel gene editing tools with tremendous capacity and accuracy for gene editing and hold great potential for therapeutic genetic manipulation. However, the lack of safe and efficient delivery methods for CRISPR/Cas and its guide RNA hinders their wide adoption for therapeutic applications. To this end, there is an increasing demand for safe, efficient, precise, and non-pathogenic delivery approaches, both in vitro and in vivo. With the convergence of nanotechnology and biomedicine, functional nanocomposites have demonstrated unparalleled sophistication to overcome the limits of CRISPR/Cas delivery. The tunability of the physicochemical properties of nanocomposites makes it very easy to conjugate them with different functional substances. The combinatorial application of diverse functional materials in the form of nanocomposites has shown excellent properties for CRISPR/Cas delivery at the target site with therapeutic potential. The recent highlights of selective organ targeting and phase I clinical trials for gene manipulation by CRISPR/Cas after delivery through LNPs are at the brink of making it to routine clinical practice. Here we summarize the recent advances in delivering CRISPR/Cas systems through nanocomposites for targeted delivery and therapeutic genome editing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Waseem Ghani
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei 230026, P. R. China.,CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics (SINANO), Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China.
| | - Ambreen Iqbal
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei 230026, P. R. China.,CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics (SINANO), Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China.
| | - Hammad Ghani
- Basic Health Unit Laleka, Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department, Bahawalngar, 62300, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Sidra Bibi
- Department of Biology, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar Campus 62300, Pakistan
| | - Zixun Wang
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei 230026, P. R. China.,CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics (SINANO), Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China.
| | - Renjun Pei
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei 230026, P. R. China.,CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics (SINANO), Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Mathur D, Galvan AR, Green CM, Liu K, Medintz IL. Uptake and stability of DNA nanostructures in cells: a cross-sectional overview of the current state of the art. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:2516-2528. [PMID: 36722508 PMCID: PMC10407680 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr05868e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The physical and chemical properties of synthetic DNA have transformed this prototypical biopolymer into a versatile nanoscale building block material in the form of DNA nanotechnology. DNA nanotechnology is, in turn, providing unprecedented precision bioengineering for numerous biomedical applications at the nanoscale including next generation immune-modulatory materials, vectors for targeted delivery of nucleic acids, drugs, and contrast agents, intelligent sensors for diagnostics, and theranostics, which combines several of these functionalities into a single construct. Assembling a DNA nanostructure to be programmed with a specific number of targeting moieties on its surface to imbue it with concomitant cellular uptake and retention capabilities along with carrying a specific therapeutic dose is now eminently feasible due to the extraordinary self-assembling properties and high formation efficiency of these materials. However, what remains still only partially addressed is how exactly this class of materials is taken up into cells in both the native state and as targeted or chemically facilitated, along with how stable they are inside the cellular cytosol and other cellular organelles. In this minireview, we summarize what is currently reported in the literature about how (i) DNA nanostructures are taken up into cells along with (ii) what is understood about their subsequent stability in the complex multi-organelle environment of the cellular milieu along with biological fluids in general. This allows us to highlight the many challenges that still remain to overcome in understanding DNA nanostructure-cellular interactions in order to fully translate these exciting new materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Divita Mathur
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
| | - Angelica Rose Galvan
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Code 6900, US Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| | - Christopher M Green
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Code 6900, US Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| | - Kevin Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
| | - Igor L Medintz
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Code 6900, US Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zhu L, Luo J, Ren K. Nucleic acid-based artificial nanocarriers for gene therapy. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:261-279. [PMID: 36524395 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb01179d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Nucleic acid nanotechnology is a powerful tool in the fields of biosensing and nanomedicine owing to their high editability and easy synthesis and modification. Artificial nucleic acid nanostructures have become an emerging research hotspot as gene carriers with low cytotoxicity and immunogenicity for therapeutic approaches. In this review, recent progress in the design and functional mechanisms of nucleic acid-based artificial nano-vectors especially for exogenous siRNA and antisense oligonucleotide delivery is summarized. Different types of DNA nanocarriers, including DNA junctions, tetrahedrons, origami, hydrogels and scaffolds, are introduced. The enhanced targeting strategies to improve the delivery efficacy are demonstrated. Furthermore, RNA based gene nanocarrier systems by self-assembly of short strands, rolling circle transcription, chemical crosslinking and using RNA motifs and DNA-RNA hybrids are demonstrated. Finally, the outlook and potential challenges are highlighted. The nucleic acid-based artificial nanocarriers offer a promising and precise tool for gene delivery and therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Longyi Zhu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210094, China.
| | - Jun Luo
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210094, China.
| | - Kewei Ren
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210094, China.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Zhao Y, Guo L, Cao S, Xie M, Peng H, Li J, Luo S, Ma L, Wang L. DNA framework carriers with asymmetric hydrophobic drug patterns for enhanced cellular cytotoxicity. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:306-309. [PMID: 36507912 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc05763h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We devise a class of amphiphilic drug complexes by programming hydrophobic drug patterns (HDPs) on DNA frameworks. We investigate the effect of HDPs on cellular uptake efficiency and drug potency. We achieve enhanced cytotoxicity against tumor cells by using an asymmetric HDP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhao
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China.,Division of Physical Biology Department, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China.
| | - Linjie Guo
- The Interdisciplinary Research Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China.,Zhangjiang Laboratory, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Shuting Cao
- Division of Physical Biology Department, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China.
| | - Mo Xie
- Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information Displays (KLOEID) & Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biosensors, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Hongzhen Peng
- The Interdisciplinary Research Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China.,Zhangjiang Laboratory, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Jiang Li
- The Interdisciplinary Research Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China.,Zhangjiang Laboratory, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Shihua Luo
- Department of Traumatology, Rui Jin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Lan Ma
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China.,Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Lihua Wang
- The Interdisciplinary Research Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China.,Zhangjiang Laboratory, Shanghai 201210, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Lu B, Vecchioni S, Ohayon YP, Canary JW, Sha R. The wending rhombus: Self-assembling 3D DNA crystals. Biophys J 2022; 121:4759-4765. [PMID: 36004779 PMCID: PMC9808540 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2022.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In this perspective, we provide a summary of recent developments in self-assembling three-dimensional (3D) DNA crystals. Starting from the inception of this subfield, we describe the various advancements in structure that have led to an increase in the diversity of macromolecular crystal motifs formed through self-assembly, and we further comment on the future directions of the field, which exploit noncanonical base pairing interactions beyond Watson-Crick. We then survey the current applications of self-assembling 3D DNA crystals in reversibly active nanodevices and materials engineering and provide an outlook on the direction researchers are taking these structures. Finally, we compare 3D DNA crystals with DNA origami and suggest how these distinct subfields might work together to enhance biomolecule structure solution, nanotechnological motifs, and their applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Lu
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Simon Vecchioni
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Yoel P Ohayon
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York
| | - James W Canary
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York.
| | - Ruojie Sha
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Giráldez-Pérez RM, Grueso E, Montero-Hidalgo AJ, Luque RM, Carnerero JM, Kuliszewska E, Prado-Gotor R. Gold Nanosystems Covered with Doxorubicin/DNA Complexes: A Therapeutic Target for Prostate and Liver Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415575. [PMID: 36555216 PMCID: PMC9779246 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Different gold nanosystems covered with DNA and doxorubicin (Doxo) were designed and synthesized for cancer therapy, starting from Au@16-Ph-16 cationic nanoparticles and DNA-Doxo complexes prepared under saturation conditions. For the preparation of stable, biocompatible, and small-sized compacted Au@16-Ph-16/DNA-Doxo nanotransporters, the conditions for the DNA-Doxo compaction process induced by gold nanoparticles were first explored using fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism and atomic force microscopy techniques. The reverse process, which is fundamental for Doxo liberation at the site of action, was found to occur at higher CAu@16-Ph-16 concentrations using these techniques. Zeta potential, dynamic light scattering and UV-visible spectroscopy reveal that the prepared compacted nanosystems are stable, highly charged and of adequate size for the effective delivery of Doxo to the cell. This fact is verified by in vitro biocompatibility and internalization studies using two prostate cancer-derived cell lines (LNCaP and DU145) and one hepatocellular carcinoma-derived cell line (SNU-387), as well as a non-tumor prostate (PNT2) cell line and a non-hepatocarcinoma hepatoblastoma cell line (Hep-G2) model used as a control in liver cells. However, the most outstanding results of this work are derived from the use of the CI+NI combined treatments which present strong action in cancer-derived cell lines, while a protective effect is observed in non-tumor cell lines. Hence, novel therapeutic targets based on gold nanoparticles denote high selectivity compared to conventional treatment based on free Doxo at the same concentration. The results obtained show the viability of both the proposed methodology for internalization of compacted nanocomplexes inside the cell and the effectiveness of the possible treatment and minimization of side effects in prostate and liver cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa M. Giráldez-Pérez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Cordoba, 14014 Cordoba, Spain
- Correspondence: (R.M.G.-P.); (E.G.)
| | - Elia Grueso
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain
- Correspondence: (R.M.G.-P.); (E.G.)
| | - Antonio J. Montero-Hidalgo
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Reina Sofia University Hospital (HURS), Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Raúl M. Luque
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Reina Sofia University Hospital (HURS), Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - José M. Carnerero
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain
| | | | - Rafael Prado-Gotor
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Unida V, Vindigni G, Raniolo S, Stolfi C, Desideri A, Biocca S. Folate-Functionalization Enhances Cytotoxicity of Multivalent DNA Nanocages on Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122610. [PMID: 36559104 PMCID: PMC9786333 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA is an excellent programmable polymer for the generation of self-assembled multivalent nanostructures useful for biomedical applications. Herein, we developed (i) folate-functionalized nanocages (Fol-NC), very efficiently internalized by tumor cells overexpressing the α isoform of the folate receptor; (ii) AS1411-linked nanocages (Apt-NC), internalized through nucleolin, a protein overexpressed in the cell surface of many types of cancers; and (iii) nanostructures that harbor both folate and AS1411 aptamer functionalization (Fol-Apt-NC). We analyzed the specific miRNA silencing activity of all types of nanostructures harboring miRNA sequestering sequences complementary to miR-21 and the cytotoxic effect when loaded with doxorubicin in a drug-resistant triple-negative breast cancer cell line. We demonstrate that the presence of folate as a targeting ligand increases the efficiency in miR-21 silencing compared to nanocages functionalized with AS1411. Double-functionalized nanocages (Fol-Apt-NC), loaded with doxorubicin, resulted in an increase of over 51% of the cytotoxic effect on MDA-MB-231 cells compared to free doxorubicin, demonstrating, besides selectivity, the ability of nanocages to overcome Dox chemoresistance. The higher efficiency of the folate-functionalized nanocages is due to the way of entrance, which induces more than four times higher intracellular stability and indicates that the folate-mediated route of cell entry is more efficient than the nucleolin-mediated one when both folate and AS1411 modifications are present.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Unida
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Vindigni
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Sofia Raniolo
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Carmine Stolfi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Desideri
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Biocca
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-72-596-418
| |
Collapse
|