Synthesis of novel Chlorin e6-curcumin conjugates as photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy against pancreatic carcinoma

Matrix Metalloproteinases on Skin Photoaging

BACKGROUND

Skin aging is characterized by an imbalance between the generation and degradation of extracellular matrix molecules (ECM). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are the primary enzymes responsible for ECM breakdown. Intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli can induce different MMPs. However, there is limited literature especially on the summary of skin MMPs and potential inhibitors.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to focus on the upregulation of MMP expression or activity in skin cells following exposure to UV radiation. We also would like to offer valuable insights into potential clinical applications of MMP inhibitors for mitigating skin aging.

METHODS

This article presents the summary of prior research, which involved an extensive literature search across diverse academic databases including Web of Science and PubMed.

RESULTS

Our findings offer a comprehensive insight into the effects of MMPs on skin aging after UV irradiation, including their substrate preferences and distinct roles in this process. Additionally, a comprehensive list of natural plant and animal extracts, proteins, polypeptides, amino acids, as well as natural and synthetic compounds that serve as inhibitors for MMPs is compiled.

CONCLUSION

Skin aging is a complex process influenced by environmental factors and MMPs. Research focuses on UV-induced skin damage and the formation of Advanced Glycosylation End Products (AGEs), leading to wrinkles and impaired functionality. Inhibiting MMPs is crucial for maintaining youthful skin. Natural sources of MMP inhibitor substances, such as extracts from plants and animals, offer a safer approach to obtain inhibitors through dietary supplements. Studying isolated active ingredients can contribute to developing targeted MMP inhibitors.

A Review of the Efficacy of Nanomaterial-Based Natural Photosensitizers to Overcome Multidrug Resistance in Cancer

Natural photosensitizers (PS) are compounds derived from nature, with photodynamic properties. Natural PSs have a similar action to that of commercial PSs, where cancer cell death occurs by necrosis, apoptosis, and autophagy through ROS generation. Natural PSs have garnered great interest over the last few decades because of their high biocompatibility and good photoactivity. Specific wavelengths could cause phytochemicals to produce harmful ROS for photodynamic therapy (PDT). However, natural PSs have some shortcomings, such as reduced solubility and lower uptake, making them less appropriate for PDT. Nanotechnology offers an opportunity to develop suitable carriers for various natural PSs for PDT applications. Various nanoparticles have been developed to improve the outcome with enhanced solubility, optical adsorption, and tumor targeting. Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a phenomenon in which tumor cells develop resistance to a wide range of structurally and functionally unrelated drugs. Over the last decade, several researchers have extensively studied the effect of natural PS-based photodynamic treatment (PDT) on MDR cells. Though the outcomes of clinical trials for natural PSs were inconclusive, significant advancement is still required before PSs can be used as a PDT agent for treating MDR tumors. This review addresses the increasing literature on MDR tumor progression and the efficacy of PDT, emphasizing the importance of developing new nano-based natural PSs in the fight against MDR that have the required features for an MDR tumor photosensitizing regimen.

A highly fluorescent and readily accessible all-organic photosensitizer model for advancing image-guided cancer PDT

The potential of using image-guided photodynamic therapy (ig-PDT) for cancer, especially with highly biocompatible fluorescent agents free of heavy atoms, is well recognized. This is due to key advantages related to minimizing adverse side effects associated with standard cancer chemotherapy. However, this theragnostic approach is strongly limited by the lack of synthetically-accessible and easily-modulable chemical scaffolds, enabling the rapid design and construction of advanced agents for clinical ig-PDT. In fact, there are still very few ig-PDT agents clinically approved. Herein we report a readily accessible, easy-tunable and highly fluorescent all-organic small photosensitizer, as a model design for accelerating the development and translation of advanced ig-PDT agents for cancer. This scaffold is based on BODIPY, which assures high fluorescence, accessibility, and ease of performance adaptation by workable chemistry. The optimal PDT performance of this BODIPY dye, tested in highly resistant pancreatic cancer cells, despite its high fluorescent behavior, maintained even after fixation and cancer cell death, is based on its selective accumulation in mitochondria. This induces apoptosis upon illumination, as evidenced by proteomic studies and flow cytometry. All these characteristics make the reported BODIPY-based fluorescent photosensitizer a valuable model for the rapid development of ig-PDT agents for clinical use.

Enhancing the photodynamic effect of curcumin through modification with TiO2 nanoparticles and cationic polymers

Curcumin (CUR), a natural compound extracted from turmeric, has shown potential as a photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy (PDT). The aim of this work was to enhance the efficacy of CUR by modifying it using titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles and a cationic polymer called Sofast to create a nanocomposite TiO2-CUR-Sofast (TCS). Compared to unmodified CUR, TCS exhibited a broadening toward longer wavelength in the absorption wavelength within the 400-550 nm range, leading to improved CUR absorption. Cellular uptake efficiency of TCS was also enhanced, and it demonstrated nearly 4.7-fold higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation than CUR. Furthermore, TCS displayed the ability to attach to the cell membrane and enter cells within a 30-min incubation period. Upon irradiation, TCS exhibited remarkable cytotoxicity, resulting in a significant reduction in the viability of various cancer cells. Autofluorescence lifetime imaging of intracellular reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate) (NAD(P)H) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) enzymes indicated that cancer cells treated with TCS and irradiation undergo a metabolic pathway shift from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. These findings highlight the potential of TCS as an effective PDT agent for cancer treatment.

Radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and cryoablation-induced abscopal effect: Challenges and future prospects

Local therapy modalities such as radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and cryoablation have been used to treat localized tumors for decades. The discovery of the abscopal effect causes a paradigm shift where local therapy also causes systemic effects and leads to the remission of nonirradiated tumors. The abscopal effect of radiation therapy, alone or in combination with other treatments, has been extensively studied over the last six decades. However, the results are unsatisfactory in producing robust, reproducible, and long-lasting systemic effects. Although immunotherapy and radiation therapy are promising in producing the abscopal effect, the abscopal effect's mechanism is still unclear, owing to various factors such as irradiation type and dose and cancer type. This article reviews the research progress, clinical and preclinical evidence of the abscopal effect by various local therapies alone and in combination with chemotherapy and immunotherapy, case reports, and the current challenges in producing the abscopal effect by various local therapies, focusing on radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy, cryoablation, and the prospects for obtaining a robust, reproducible, and long-lasting abscopal effect.

Chlorin E6-Curcumin-Mediated Photodynamic Therapy Promotes an Anti-Photoaging Effect in UVB-Irradiated Fibroblasts

Skin photoaging due to ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that increase matrix metalloproteinase (MMP). Chlorin e6-photodynamic therapy (Ce6-PDT), in addition to being the first-line treatment for malignancies, has been shown to lessen skin photoaging, while curcumin is well known for reducing the deleterious effects of ROS. In the current study, PDT with three novel Ce6-curcumin derivatives, a combination of Ce6 and curcumin with various linkers, including propane-1,3-diamine for Ce6-propane-curcumin; hexane-1,6-diamine for Ce6-hexane-curcumin; and 3,3'-((oxybis(ethane-2,1-diyl))bis(oxy))bis(propan-1-amine) for Ce6-dipolyethylene glycol (diPEG)-curcumin, were studied for regulation of UVB-induced photoaging on human skin fibroblast (Hs68) and mouse embryonic fibroblast (BALB/c 3T3) cells. We assessed the antiphotoaging effects of Ce6-curcumin derivatives on cell viability, antioxidant activity, the mechanism of matrix metalloproteinase-1 and 2 (MMP-2) expression, and collagen synthesis in UVB-irradiated in vitro models. All three Ce6-curcumin derivatives were found to be non-phototoxic in the neutral red uptake phototoxicity test. We found that Ce6-hexane-curcumin-PDT and Ce6-propane-curcumin-associated PDT exhibited less cytotoxicity in Hs68 and BALB/c 3T3 fibroblast cell lines compared to Ce6-diPEG-curcumin-PDT. Ce6-diPEG-curcumin and Ce6-propane-curcumin-associated PDT showed superior antioxidant activity in Hs68 cell lines. Further, in UVB-irradiated in vitro models, the Ce6-diPEG-curcumin-PDT greatly attenuated the expression levels of MMP-1 and MMP-2 by blocking mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), activator protein 1 (AP-1), and tumor necrosis factor-α (NF-κB) signaling. Moreover, Ce6-diPEG-curcumin effectively inhibited inflammatory molecules, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, while accelerating collagen synthesis. These results demonstrate that Ce6-diPEG-curcumin may be a potential therapy for treating skin photoaging.

Dual-Drug-Loaded Topical Delivery of Photodynamically Active Lipid-Based Formulation for Combination Therapy of Cutaneous Melanoma

Topical administration of anti-cancer drugs along with photodynamically active molecules is a non-invasive approach, which stands to be a promising modality for treating aggressive cutaneous melanomas with the added advantage of high patient compliance. However, the efficiency of delivering drugs topically is limited by several factors, such as penetration of the drug across skin layers at the tumor site and limited light penetrability. In this study, curcumin, an active anti-cancer agent, and chlorin e6, a photoactivable molecule, were encapsulated into lipidic nanoparticles that produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) when activated at 665 nm by near-infrared (NIR) light. The optimized lipidic nanoparticle containing curcumin and chlorin e6 exhibited a particle size of less than 100 nm. The entrapment efficiency for both molecules was found to be 81%. The therapeutic efficacy of the developed formulation was tested on B16F10 and A431 cell lines via cytotoxicity evaluation, combination index, cellular uptake, nuclear staining, DNA fragmentation, ROS generation, apoptosis, and cell cycle assays under NIR irradiation (665 nm). Co-delivering curcumin and chlorin e6 exhibited higher cellular uptake, better cancer growth inhibition, and pronounced apoptotic events compared to the formulation having the free drug alone. The study results depicted that topical application of this ROS-generating dual-drug-loaded lipidic nanoparticles incorporated in SEPINEO gel achieved better permeation (80 ± 2.45%) across the skin, and exhibited the improved skin retention and a synergistic effect as well. The present work introduces photo-triggered ROS-generating dual-drug-based lipidic nanoparticles, which are simple and efficient to develop and exhibit synergistic therapeutic effects against cutaneous melanoma.

Novel Chlorin e6-Curcumin Derivatives as a Potential Photosensitizer: Synthesis, Characterization, and Anticancer Activity

Novel series of chlorin e6-curcumin derivatives were designed and synthesized. All the synthesized compounds 16, 17, 18, and 19 were tested for their photodynamic treatment (PDT) efficacy against human pancreatic cancer cell lines: AsPC-1, MIA-PaCa-2, and PANC-1. The cellular uptake study was performed in the aforementioned cell lines using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). 17, among the synthesized compounds with IC₅₀ values of 0.27, 0.42, and 0.21 µM against AsPC-1, MIA PaCa-2, and PANC-1 cell lines, respectively, demonstrated excellent cellular internalization capability and exhibited higher phototoxicity relative to the parent Ce6. The quantitative analyses using Annexin V-PI staining revealed that the 17-PDT-induced apoptosis was dose-dependent. In pancreatic cell lines, 17 reduced the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein, Bcl-2, and increased the pro-apoptotic protein, cytochrome C, which indicates the activation of intrinsic apoptosis, the primary cause of cancer cell death. Structure-activity relationship studies have shown that the incorporation of additional methyl ester moiety and conjugation to the enone moiety of curcumin enhances cellular uptake and PDT efficacy. Moreover, in vivo PDT testing in melanoma mouse models revealed that 17-PDT greatly reduced tumor growth. Therefore, 17 might be an effective photosensitizer for PDT anticancer therapy.

Conjugates of Tetrapyrrolic Macrocycles as Potential Anticancer Target-Oriented Photosensitizers

Photodynamic therapy is a minimally invasive treatment of tumors using photosensitizers, light, and reactive oxygen species, which can destroy cellular structures. With the development of photodynamic therapy, significant efforts have been made to create new efficient photosensitizers with improved delivery to cells, stability, and selectivity against cancer tissues. Naturally occurring tetrapyrrolic macrocycles, such as porphyrins and chlorins, are very attractive as photosensitizers, and their structural modification and conjugation with other biologically active molecules are promising approaches for creating new photosensitizers specifically targeting cancer cells. The present review aims to highlight recent developments in the design, preparation, and investigation of complex conjugates of tetrapyrrolic macrocycles, which can potentially be used as sensitizers for target-oriented photodynamic therapy of cancer. In this review, we discuss the structure, photodynamic effect, and anticancer activity of the following conjugates of tetrapyrrolic macrocycles: (1) conjugates obtained by modifying peripheral substituents in porphyrins and chlorins; (2) conjugates of porphyrins and chlorins with lipids, carbohydrates, steroids, and peptides; (3) conjugates of porphyrins and chlorins with anticancer drugs and some other biologically active molecules; (4) metal-containing conjugates. The question of how the conjugate structure affects its specificity, internalization, localization, and photoinduced toxicity within cancer cells is the focus of this review.

Dual Sensitization Anti-Resistant Nanoparticles for Treating Refractory Breast Cancers via Apoptosis-Inducing

Purpose

Current chemotherapy fails to offer a desirable efficacy in clinical treatment against breast cancer due to the extensive multi-drug resistance. In this study, we developed dual sensitization anti-resistant nanoparticles to treat refractory breast cancer, aiming to benefit from photodynamic therapy and chemotherapy.

Methods

Hyaluronic acid (HA) derivative and photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6) derivative were synthesized and confirmed by mass spectrometry. These derivatives and the chemotherapy agent paclitaxel were incorporated into nanoparticles by an emulsion-solvent evaporation method. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by dynamic laser scattering, atomic force microscopy, and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The efficacy and mechanisms of the nanoparticles, both in vitro and in vivo, were investigated by flow cytometry, confocal/fluorescence microscopy, and a high-content screening system.

Results

The prepared dual sensitization anti-resistant nanoparticles were round with a diameter of ~ 100 nm, exhibiting high encapsulation efficiency for the anticancer agent paclitaxel. The nanoparticles demonstrated a robust inhibitory effect against drug-resistant breast cancer cells by enhanced uptake, synergistic effect of photodynamic therapy and chemotherapy, and apoptosis-inducing via multiple pathways. In vivo efficacy, biocompatibility and safety were further confirmed acceptable in tumor-bearing mice.

Conclusion

The prepared dual sensitization anti-resistant nanoparticles were promising to treat refractory breast cancer with a controllable treatment site and minimal side effects.

Synthesis of Red-Light-Responsive Pheophorbide-a Tryptamine Conjugated Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy

Six methyl pheophorbide-a derivatives were prepared by linking a tryptamine side chain at the C-13¹ , C-15² and C-17³ positions of pheophorbide-a. Prepared conjugates were characterized and evaluated for their photocytotoxicity against A549 cells. The conjugate 6 a with strong absorption at 413 nm (Soret band), 663-671 nm (Q bands) and comparable fluorescence quantum yield (0.26) was found to exhibit significant cytotoxicity (659 nM). Molecular integration of pheophorbide-a and tryptamines showed synergistic effects as the most potent conjugate 6 a was identified with enhanced photocytotoxicity when compared to methyl pheophorbide-a. The conjugate 6 a was smoothly taken up by A549 cells and exhibited intracellular localization predominantly to lysosome in the cytoplasm. Upon photoirradiation 6 a generated singlet oxygen to show potent cytotoxicity toward A549 cells.

Effect of Photodynamic Therapy with Chlorin e6 on Canine Tumors

This work aims to prepare pure Chlorin e6 (Ce6) and establish Ce6-mediated photodynamic therapy (Ce6-PDT) as a better therapy option for canine tumors as well as mouse tumor models. Five dogs suffering from various cancers were treated with Ce6-PDT from one to several times. After receiving the Ce6 (2.5 mg/kg) for 3 h, tumors were illuminated superficially or interstitially with 660 nm light. Two dogs underwent Ce6-guided fluorescence imaging by photodynamic diagnosis (PDD). Cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by the 4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and western blot assay, respectively. Ce6-PDT efficacy was also determined using melanoma and pancreatic cancer mouse models. Two veterinary patients with mammary carcinoma and histiocytic sarcoma had their tumors significantly diminished and showed improved health after receiving Ce6-PDT. Moreover, in the cases of canine tumors, the adjunctive use of Ce6-PDD revealed cancers that were not visible with white light viewing and provided a visual contrast from surrounding tissues. Also, in vivo, Ce6-PDT remarkably reduced melanoma and pancreatic tumors in the mouse model. These findings could pave the way for a better understanding of the underlying processes of Ce6-PDT, making it an effective and safe candidate for use in human and veterinary applications to abolish various cancers.

Synthesis, Characterization, and Physicochemical Studies Of Orientation-Controlled Multi-Arm PEG Zn(II)/Mg(II) (Aza)Phthalocyanines

Tuning the amphiphilicity of (aza)phthalocyanine hydrophobic cores by introducing multiple polyethylene glycol (PEG) moieties with controlled orientations of their (non)peripheral positions is an innovative approach to fabricating water-soluble macrocyclic materials. Although many water-soluble PEGylated macrocycles have been produced in this way, the ability to generate substances with PEG tails oriented outward from the macrocyclic plane in order to obtain non-aggregated, water soluble forms remains a challenge. In this study, we resolved this issue by developing a methods for the synthesis of four new dual directional PEG containing Zn(II)/Mg(II) amphiphiles (ZnPc-PEG, MgPc-PEG, ZnAzaPc-PEG and MgAzaPc-PEG). In addition, the non-aggregating behaviour, and photophysical and photochemical properties of these PEG-complexes were elucidated.

The Potential Anti-Photoaging Effect of Photodynamic Therapy Using Chlorin e6-Curcumin Conjugate in UVB-Irradiated Fibroblasts and Hairless Mice

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been used to treat cancers and non-malignant skin diseases. In this study, a chlorin e6–curcumin conjugate (Ce6-PEG-Cur), a combination of chlorin e6 (Ce6) and curcumin via a PEG linker, was used as a photosensitizer. The in vitro and in vivo effects of PDT using Ce6-PEG-Cur were analyzed in UVB-irradiated fibroblasts and hairless mice. The UVB-induced expression of MMPs was reduced in Hs68 fibroblast cells, and procollagen type Ⅰ expression was enhanced by Ce6-PEG-Cur-mediated PDT on a Western blotting gel. Moreover, UVB-induced collagen levels were restored upon application of Ce6-PEG-Cur-mediated PDT. Ce6-PEG-Cur-mediated PDT inhibited the expression of phosphorylated p38 in the MAPK signaling pathway, and it reduced the expression of phosphorylated NF-κB. In animal models, Ce6-PEG-Cur-mediated PDT inhibited the expression of MMPs, whereas procollagen type Ⅰ levels were enhanced in the dorsal skin of UVB-irradiated mice. Moreover, UVB-induced dorsal roughness was significantly reduced following Ce6-PEG-Cur-mediated PDT treatment. H&E staining and Masson’s trichrome staining showed that the thickness of the epidermal region was reduced, and the density of collagen fibers increased. Taken together, Ce6-PEG-Cur-mediated PDT might delay and improve skin photoaging by ultraviolet light, suggesting its potential for use as a more effective photo-aging treatment.

Combination of Curcumin and Photodynamic Therapy Based on the Use of Red Light or Near-Infrared Radiation in Cancer: a Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a therapeutic intervention that can be applied to the treatment of cancer. The interaction between a photosensitizer (PS), ideal wavelength radiation and tissue molecular oxygen, triggers a series of photochemical reactions that are responsible for the production of reactive oxygen species. These highly reactive species can decrease proliferation and induce tumor cell death. The search for PS of natural origin extracted from plants becomes relevant, as they have photoactivation capacity, preferentially targeting tumor cells and because they do not present any or little toxicity to healthy cells.

OBJECTIVE

Our work aimed to carry out a qualitative systematic review to investigate the effects of curcumin (CUR), a molecule considered as PS of natural origin, on PDT, using red light or near infrared radiation, in tumor models.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed in three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) using the PICOT method, retrieving a total of 1,373 occurrences. At the end of the peer screening, using inclusion, exclusion, and eligibility criteria, 25 eligible articles were included in this systematic review.

RESULTS

CUR, whether in its free state, associated with metal complexes or other PS, and in a nanocarrier system, was considered a relevant PS for PDT using red light or near-infrared against tumoral models in vitro and in vivo, acting by increasing cytotoxicity, inhibiting proliferation, inducing cell death mainly by apoptosis, and changing oxidative parameters.

CONCLUSION

The results found in this systematic review suggest the potential use of CUR as a PS of natural origin to be applied in PDT against many neoplasms, encouraging further search in the field of PDT against cancer and serving as an investigative basis for upcoming pre-clinical and clinical applications.

Can Nanoparticles in Homeopathic Remedies Enhance Phototherapy of Cancer? A Hypothetical Model

The continuous rise in cancer incidence places a massive burden on the health sector to increase efforts in the fight against cancer. As a holistic complementary medicine modality, homeopathy has the potential to assist in the supportive and palliative treatment of cancer patients. Recent empirical studies demonstrate the presence of silica and original source nanoparticles in ultra-high dilutions of several homeopathic medicines. Recent studies have also demonstrated the efficacy of phototherapy in inducing the ablation of cancer cells through laser-activated nanoparticle photosensitizers. A new hypothetical research model is presented herein, in an attempt to investigate and compare the phototherapeutic effects of homeopathic source nanoparticles with photosensitizing nanoparticle agents that have previously been tested.

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) against vancomycin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) biofilm disruption: A putative role of phagocytosis in infection control

Biofilm mediated infections have major clinical impact. Staphylococcus aureus is a pathogen that frequently causes biofilm forming infections, such as those associated with medical devices and persistent wounds. Microorganisms embedded in biofilm are impervious to antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents, thus they are difficult to eliminate. The upsurge of multi-drug resistant strains makes treating such illnesses even more difficult. Therefore, new strategies are required to combat such type of infections. In this work, we have proposed an alternative therapeutic option to eradicate preformed biofilm of vancomycin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) and enhanced phagocytosis by neutrophils in fresh human blood using curcumin mediated antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT).At sub-MIC of curcumin, different anti-biofilm assays and microscopic examinations were performed, followed by 20 J/cm² of blue laser light irradiation which corresponds to 52 s only. The result showed significant disruption of VRSA biofilm. Moreover, when curcumin-aPDT treated VRSA biofilm was exposed to whole blood from healthy donors, it was nearly completely eradicated. The present study suggests that curcumin-aPDT enhanced phagocytosis may be a useful strategy for inactivating VRSA biofilms adhering to medical implant surfaces.

Therapeutic effect of curcumin in gastrointestinal cancers: A comprehensive review

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers with a high global prevalence are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Accordingly, there is a great need to develop efficient therapeutic approaches. Curcumin, a naturally occurring agent, is a promising compound with documented safety and anticancer activities. Recent studies have demonstrated the activity of curcumin in the prevention and treatment of different cancers. According to systematic studies on curcumin use in various diseases, it can be particularly effective in GI cancers because of its high bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract. Nevertheless, the clinical applications of curcumin are largely limited because of its low solubility and low chemical stability in water. These limitations may be addressed by the use of relevant analogues or novel delivery systems. Herein, we summarize the pharmacological effects of curcumin against GI cancers. Moreover, we highlight the application of curcumin's analogues and novel delivery systems in the treatment of GI cancers.

Comparison of the Photodynamic Action of Porphyrin, Chlorin, and Isobacteriochlorin Derivatives toward a Melanotic Cell Line

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, with an abrupt growth of its incidence over the last years. It is extremely resistant to traditional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but therapies for this cancer are gaining attention. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is considered an effective modality to treat several types of skin cancers and can offer the possibility to treat one of the most aggressive ones: melanoma. In this work, the effect of PDT on a melanotic cell line (B16F10 cells) was assessed by exposing cultured cells to 5,10,15-tris(pentafluorophenyl)-20-(4-pyridyl)porphyrin (PS1) and to its chlorin (PS2) and isobacteriochlorin (PS3) corresponding derivatives and red LED light (λ = 660 ± 20 nm). The PDT effect in the cells' viability was measured using the MTT assay. The cell apoptosis was quantified by flow cytometry, and the subcellular localization of the photosensitizer was determined by fluorescence microscopy. In addition, the ability of PS2 to generate superoxide radicals was qualitatively assessed by tyrosine nitration. The results show that the efficiency of the PDT process is dependent on the structure of the PS and on their ability to produce singlet oxygen. Besides that, the photoactivation efficiency is highly dependent on the cellular sublocalization of the PS and on its cellular uptake and singlet oxygen production. We also found that the resistant cell line B16F10 has distinctive chlorin, isobacteriochlorin, or porphyrin-specific resistance profiles. Furthermore, it is shown that the highly fluorescent chlorin derivative PS2 can also be considered in imaging diagnostics.

Self-assembly supramolecular drug delivery system for combination of photodynamic therapy and chemotherapy

AIMS

To construct a self-assembly supramolecular drug delivery system (DDS) to co-deliver chlorin e6 (Ce6) and tripeptide tyroseroleutide (YSL) and evaluate the anti-tumour effects.

METHODS

A supramolecular DDS was constructed via self-assembly of Ce6 and YSL based on π-π stacking and hydrogen-bond interaction. The size, morphology, stability, in vitro drug release, cellular uptake, cytotoxicity, pharmacokinetics analysis and pharmacodynamics analysis were respectively studied.

RESULTS

Ce6-YSL nanoparticles with a uniform size of 75 ± 3.5 nm (PDI = 0.128) and monodispersed spherical morphology were constructed. The nanoparticles exhibited good stability with zeta potential -21.2 ± 1.73 mV. Under the weak acidic conditions, the accumulative drug release was 82.8% (w/w) (pH = 6.0) and 91.5% (w/w) (pH = 5.0), respectively, indicating that nanoparticles performed smart responsive properties and achieved controlled release characteristics in acidic tumour microenvironment. In addition, nanoparticles could easily enter the tumour cells and induce ROS production and inhibit cell proliferation in SMMCC-7721 cells with IC50 value 3.4 ± 0.023 μg/mL under laser irradiation. Furthermore, the nanoparticles could retain a much higher blood concentration in vivo and displayed excellent antitumor effect in tumour-bearing mice, showing no influence on body weight.

CONCLUSIONS

This self-assembly supramolecular DDS can be used for combination of photodynamic therapy and chemotherapy in future research.

Photosensitizer Nanoparticles Boost Photodynamic Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

Patients with pancreatic cancer (PCa) have a poor prognosis apart from the few suitable for surgery. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment modality whose efficacy and safety in treating unresectable localized PCa have been corroborated in clinic. Yet, it suffers from certain limitations during clinical exploitation, including insufficient photosensitizers (PSs) delivery, tumor-oxygenation dependency, and treatment escape of aggressive tumors. To overcome these obstacles, an increasing number of researchers are currently on a quest to develop photosensitizer nanoparticles (NPs) by the use of a variety of nanocarrier systems to improve cellular uptake and biodistribution of photosensitizers. Encapsulation of PSs with NPs endows them significantly higher accumulation within PCa tumors due to the increased solubility and stability in blood circulation. A number of approaches have been explored to produce NPs co-delivering multi-agents affording PDT-based synergistic therapies for improved response rates and durability of response after treatment. This review provides an overview of available data regarding the design, methodology, and oncological outcome of the innovative NPs-based PDT of PCa.

Exploring the Applications of the Photoprotective Properties of Anthocyanins in Biological Systems

Due to their physical and chemical characteristics, anthocyanins are amongst the most versatile groups of natural compounds. Such unique signature makes these compounds a focus in several different areas of research. Anthocyanins have well been reported as bioactive compounds in a myriad of health disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and obesity, among others, due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-bacterial, and anti-proliferative capacities. Such a vast number of action mechanisms may be also due to the number of structurally different anthocyanins plus their related derivatives. In this review, we highlight the recent advances on the potential use of anthocyanins in biological systems with particular focus on their photoprotective properties. Topics such as skin aging and eye degenerative diseases, highly influenced by light, and the action of anthocyanins against such damages will be discussed. Photodynamic Therapy and the potential role of anthocyanins as novel photosensitizers will be also a central theme of this review.

Synthesis and Biological Evaluations of Monocarbonyl Curcumin Inspired Pyrazole Analogues as Potential Anti-Colon Cancer Agent

Purpose

The monocarbonyl analogs of curcumin (MCACs) have been widely studied for their promising antitumor activity. Pyrazole is a five-membered aromatic heterocyclic system with various bioactivities incorporated frequently in drugs. However, few of MCACs inspired pyrazole analogues were investigated. To search for more potent cytotoxic agents based on MCACs, a series of new 1,5-diaryl/heteroaryl-1,4-pentadien-3-ones inspired pyrazole moiety was synthesized and evaluated on their anti-colon cancer activities.

Methods

Fifteen new compounds were synthesized and characterized by spectral datum, and then they were tested preliminarily by MTT assay for their cytotoxic activities against a panel of four human cancer cell lines, namely, gastric (SGC-7901), liver (HepG2), lung (A549), and colon (SW620) cancer cells. Compound 7h exhibited excellent selectivity and outstanding anti-proliferation activity against SW620 cells among these 15 compounds. Further, the mechanisms were investigated by transwell migration and invasion assay, clonogenic assay, cell apoptosis analysis, cell cycle analysis, Western blot analysis.

Results

The IC₅₀ value of 7h against SW620 cells was 12 nM, being more potent than curcumin (IC₅₀ = 9.36 μM), adriamysin (IC₅₀ = 3.28 μM) and oxaliplatin (IC₅₀ = 13.33 μM). Further assays showed that 7h inhibited SW620 cell migration, invasion and colony formation obviously, which was due to its ability to induce cell cycle arrest in the G2/M and S phases and apoptosis. Western blot assay revealed that 7h decreased the protein expression of ATM gene, which may primarily contribute to its anticancer activity against SW620 cells.

Conclusion

A new MCACs 7h was synthesized and found to exhibit excellent anti-proliferation activity against SW620 cells. Further studies indicated that 7h exerted its anticancer activity against SW620 cells probably via decreasing the ATM protein expression. The present study suggested that 7h was a promising candidate as an anti-colon cancer drug for future development.

A Co-Delivery System of Curcumin and p53 for Enhancing the Sensitivity of Drug-Resistant Ovarian Cancer Cells to Cisplatin

In order to enhance the sensitivity of drug-resistant ovarian cancer cells to cisplatin (DDP), a co-delivery system was designed for simultaneous delivery of curcumin (CUR) and p53 DNA. Firstly, the bifunctional peptide K14 composed of tumor targeting peptide (tLyP-1) and nuclear localization signal (NLS) was synthesized. A nonviral carrier (PEI-K14) was synthesized by cross-linking low molecular weight polyethyleneimine (PEI) with K14. Then, CUR was coupled to PEI-K14 by matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9)-cleavable peptide to prepare CUR-PEI-K14. A co-delivery system, named CUR-PEI-K14/p53, was obtained by CUR-PEI-K14 and p53 self-assembly. Furthermore, the physicochemical properties and gene transfection efficiency were evaluated. Finally, ovarian cancer cisplatin-resistant (SKOV3-DDP) cells were selected to evaluate the effect of CUR-PEI-K14/p53 on enhancing the sensitivity of drug-resistant cells to DDP. The CUR-PEI-K14/DNA complexes appeared uniformly dispersed and spherical. The particle size was around 20-150 nm and the zeta potential was around 18-37 mV. It had good stability, high transfection efficiency, and low cytotoxicity. CUR-PEI-K14/p53 could significantly increase the sensitivity of SKOV3-DDP cells to DDP, and this effect was better as combined with DDP. The sensitizing effect might be related to the upregulation of p53 messenger RNA (mRNA), the downregulation of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) mRNA, and the upregulation of BCL2-Associated X (bax) mRNA. CUR-PEI-K14/p53 can be used as an effective strategy to enhance the sensitivity of drug-resistant ovarian cancer cells to DDP.

Novel photosensitizing properties of porphyrin–chrysin derivatives with antitumor activity in vitro

Photodynamic therapy is a promising cancer treatment with the advantages of low toxicity, high efficiency, and noninvasiveness. In this study, 23 novel porphyrin–chrysin derivatives are synthesized using alkyl carbon chains as bridges. We use human gastric cancer cells (MGC-803) and human cervical cancer cells to evaluate the in vitro antitumor activity of all the porphyrin–chrysin derivatives, with 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) as a positive control. Several of the prepared compounds showed effective photodynamic killing effects, among which 5-hydroxy-2-phenyl-7-(2-(4-(10,15,20-tris(4-hydroxyphenyl)porphyrin-5-yl)phenoxy)ethoxy)-4 H-chromen-4-one shows the highest antiproliferation activity on human cervical cancer cells, with a half maximal inhibitory concentration of 26.51 ± 1.15 µM. Flow cytometry analysis showed that human cervical cancer cell apoptosis might be induced by G1 phase arrest.

Nanoengineered chlorin e6 conjugated with hydrogel for photodynamic therapy on cancer

The aim of the present study is to fabricate hydrogel as a photosensitizer (PS) for photodynamic therapy. Chlorin e6 (Ce6)-fucoidan/alginates@gellam gum (Ce6-Fu/AL@GG)-based hydrogel was fabricated and characterised in terms of morphology and functional groups. MTT assay was used to check toxicity and also performed scratch assay for wound healing property of Ce6-Fu/AL@GGH. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) confirmed the existence of physical interactions between polysaccharides. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis confirmed a decrease in the thermal stability of the fabricated hydrogel. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images demonstrated porous matrixes representing homogeneous dispersion of nanoparticles in the hydrogel. Cytotoxicity tests revealed that a decrease in the cell viability occurred in PDT after 48 h treatment. Both Ce6 and laser irradiation induced the HT-29 apoptotic effect that was mediated by intracellular ROS generation and mitochondrial damage. The laser-treated hydrogel was effective in inhibiting HT-29 cell growth. Ce6-Fu/AL@GG hydrogel can be a promising platform for PDT on cancer treatment.

Multimodal Polysilsesquioxane Nanoparticles for Combinatorial Therapy and Gene Delivery in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Multifunctional hybrid nanoparticles are being developed to carry a wide variety of therapeutic and imaging agents for multiple biomedical applications. Polysilsesquioxane (PSilQ) nanoparticles are a promising hybrid platform with numerous advantages to be used as a delivery system. In this report, we demonstrate the ability of a stimuli-responsive PSilQ-based platform to transport and deliver simultaneously protoporphyrin IX, curcumin, and RNA interference inducers inside human cells. This multimodal delivery system shows a synergistic performance for the combined phototherapy and chemotherapy of triple-negative breast cancer and can be used for efficient transfection of therapeutic nucleic acids. The current work represents the first report of using the PSilQ platform for the combined phototherapy and chemotherapy and gene delivery.

Biotinylated-cationic zinc(II) phthalocyanine towards photodynamic therapy

Targeting biotin receptors in cancer cells can improve specifying of photosensitizers (PSs) for cancer treatment by photodynamic therapy (PDT) applications. Consequently, there has been extensive research focusing mainly on the design of PSs with optimized pharmaceutical properties and better targeting toward cancer cells. Herein a tailored mono-biotinylated zinc(II) phthalocyanine (Pc-1) substituted with six phenoxy-bis(triazolyl) substituents has been synthesized. This Pc-1 has been further modified to its cationic version (Pc-2) through quaternizing of the triazole moiety to gain water solubility. Both non-ionic zinc(II) phthalocyanine (Pc-1) and its cationic derivative (Pc-2) were characterized by standard spectroscopic techniques, namely; FT-IR, 1H and [Formula: see text]C NMR, UV-Vis and MALDI-TOF, and by elemental analysis. The photophysical and photochemical properties were evaluated in DMSO for the non-ionic Pc-1 and in both DMSO and water for the cationic Pc-2.

Vascular Effects of Photodynamic Therapy with Curcumin in a Chorioallantoic Membrane Model

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a treatment that requires light, a photosensitizing agent, and molecular oxygen. The photosensitizer is activated by light and it interacts with the oxygen that is present in the cellular microenvironment. The molecular oxygen is transformed into singlet oxygen, which is highly reactive and responsible for the cell death. Therefore, PS is an important element for the therapy happens, including its concentration. Curcumin is a natural photosensitizer and it has demonstrated its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects that inhibit several signal transduction pathways. PDT vascular effects of curcumin at concentrations varying from 0.1 to 10 mM/cm² and topical administration were investigated in a chick Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) model. The irradiation was performed at 450 nm, irradiance of 50 mW/cm² during 10 min, delivering a total fluence of 30 J/cm². The vascular effect was followed after the application of curcumin, with images being obtained each 30 min in the first 3 h, 12 h, and 24 h. Those images were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed with a MatLAB®. Curcumin was expected to exhibit a vascular effect due to its angio-inhibitory effect. Using curcumin as photosensitizer, PDT induced a higher and faster vascular effect when compared to the use of this compound alone.

Biotin-conjugated PEGylated porphyrin self-assembled nanoparticles co-targeting mitochondria and lysosomes for advanced chemo-photodynamic combination therapy

In this study, the chemo-drug doxorubicin (DOX) was successfully encapsulated in PEG–biotin conjugated porphyrin SANs (DOX@TPP–PEG–biotin) and had synergistic effects after PDT action.

Novel curcumin analogue hybrids: Synthesis and anticancer activity

In this study, twenty curcumin analogue hybrids as potential anticancer agents through regulation protein of TrxR were designed and synthesized. Results of anticancer activity showed that 5,7-dimethoxy-3-(3-(2-((1E, 4E)-3-oxo-5-(pyridin-2-yl)penta-1,4-dien-1- yl)phenoxy)propoxy)-2-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-4H-chromen-4-one (compound 7d) could induce gastric cancer cells apoptosis by arresting cell cycle, break mitochondria function and inhibit TrxR activity. Meanwhile, western blot revealed that this compound could dramatically up expression of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and high expression of TrxR oxidation. These results preliminarily show that the important role of ROS mediated activation of ASK1/MAPK signaling pathways by this title compound.