Antisense-oligonucleotide co-micelles with tumor targeting peptides elicit therapeutic effects by inhibiting microRNA-21 in the glioblastoma animal models

Glioblastoma Cell Derived Exosomes as a Potent Vaccine Platform Targeting Primary Brain Cancers and Brain Metastases

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most prevalent brain tumor that remains incurable up to now. The rapid advancement of immunotherapy makes vaccines a promising therapeutic approach for GBM. However, current vaccine platforms, such as peptides, dendritic cells, mRNA, and viral vectors, are subject to limitations such as inadequate antigen loading, insufficient immune system activation, ineffective vector delivery, complicated fabrication process, and complex formulation. Here, we developed a GBM tumor cell derived homologous exosomal nanovaccine that does not need to carry any additional tumor antigens and leads to the activation of antigen-presenting cells (APCs) in lymph nodes, increasing the proportion of immune cells (matured dendritic cells, cytotoxic T cells, and memory T cells) and in turn promoting the expression of cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IFN-γ), which effectively stimulates innate immunity to trigger durable protective immunity against tumor cell insult. Our nanovaccine platform possesses efficient dual-targeting capability to lymph nodes and the brain. More importantly, the developed exosomal nanovaccines protected 100% of treated mice by inducing sustained and strong immunity against GL261-luc GBM tumor cells, resulting in 100% mouse survival (8/8) up to 5 months. Our nanovaccines also induced antitumor immune responses in the immunosuppressed CT2A-luc GBM mouse model with greatly improved survival compared to control mice. Exosomal nanovaccines also demonstrated effectiveness in preventing brain metastasis in the B16F10-luc melanoma malignant brain metastasis mouse model, and the mice showed notably improved survival rates. Our simple and potent exosomes offer a versatile platform for clinical translation as individualized vaccine therapy.

Sophocarpine inhibits the proliferation and induces apoptosis of glioblastoma cells through regulating the miR-21/PTEN/PI3K/AKT axis

Sophocarpine (SC) has been reported to suppress tumorigenesis. But the effect of SC on glioblastoma (GBM) is unknown. This study explored the anti-proliferation and pro-apoptosis effects of SC on GBM cells and the molecular mechanism. Different concentrations of SC were used to treat human astrocyte NHA and GBM cells lines LN229 and SF539. CCK-8 was applied to analyze cell toxicity and proliferation. qRT-PCR and western blot were used to measure RNA and protein expressions, respectively. Cell cycle and cell apoptosis were determined by flow cytometry assay. The results indicated that SC inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of LN229 and SF539 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The arrest of the G0/G1 phase of GBM cells was increased after SC treatment. Moreover, SC downregulated miR-21 expression and upregulated PTEN expression in GBM cells. Overexpression of miR-21 partly abrogated the anti-proliferation and pro-apoptosis effects of SC on GBM cells, while exogenous PTEN partially eliminated the pro-proliferation and anti-apoptosis effects of miR-21 on GBM cells. Furthermore, SC treatment decreased the levels of PI3K/AKT pathway-related p-PI3K, p-AKT and PIP3 in GBM cells. The PI3K/AKT pathway activator 740Y-P partially reversed the reduced cell proliferation and enhanced cell apoptosis in SC-treated GBM cells. Significantly, we verified that SC suppressed the proliferation and enhanced apoptosis of GBM cells via inhibiting miR-21 while it was not entirely dependent on upregulation PTEN. Consequently, the potential mechanism of SC in induction apoptosis of GBM cells was verified, which might provide a new method for GBM treatment.

Advancing CNS Therapeutics: Enhancing Neurological Disorders with Nanoparticle-Based Gene and Enzyme Replacement Therapies

Given the complexity of the central nervous system (CNS) and the diversity of neurological conditions, the increasing prevalence of neurological disorders poses a significant challenge to modern medicine. These disorders, ranging from neurodegenerative diseases to psychiatric conditions, not only impact individuals but also place a substantial burden on healthcare systems and society. A major obstacle in treating these conditions is the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which restricts the passage of therapeutic agents to the brain. Nanotechnology, particularly the use of nanoparticles (NPs), offers a promising solution to this challenge. NPs possess unique properties such as small size, large surface area, and modifiable surface characteristics, enabling them to cross the BBB and deliver drugs directly to the affected brain regions. This review focuses on the application of NPs in gene therapy and enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) for neurological disorders. Gene therapy involves altering or manipulating gene expression and can be enhanced by NPs designed to carry various genetic materials. Similarly, NPs can improve the efficacy of ERT for lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) by facilitating enzyme delivery to the brain, overcoming issues like immunogenicity and instability. Taken together, this review explores the potential of NPs in revolutionizing treatment options for neurological disorders, highlighting their advantages and the future directions in this rapidly evolving field.

Nanosystems at Nexus: Navigating Nose-to-Brain Delivery for Glioblastoma Treatment

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is considered to be one of the most devastating brain tumors with a shorter life expectancy. Several factors contribute to the dismal prognosis of GBM patients including the complicated nature of GBM, the ability of tumor cells to resist treatment, and the difficulty of delivering drugs to the brain because of barriers like the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood-tumor barrier (BTB). The unique challenges posed by the BBB in delivering therapeutic agents to the brain have led to the development of innovative nanotechnology-based approaches. By exploiting the olfactory/trigeminal pathway, nanosystems offer a promising strategy for targeted drug delivery to the brain, glioblastoma tumors in particular. This review contemplates varied nanocarriers, including polymeric nanoparticles, lipid-based nanosystems, in situ gel formulations, peptide, and stem cell-based nanoformulations, signifying their utility in brain targeting with minimal systemic side effects. Emerging trends in gene therapy and immunotherapy in the context of GBM treatment have also been discussed. Since safety is a paramount aspect for any drug product to get approved, this review also delves into toxicological considerations associated with intranasal delivery of nanosystems. Regulatory aspects and critical factors for the successful development of intranasal products are also explored in this review. Overall, this review underscores the significant advancements in nanotechnology for nose-to-brain delivery and its potential impact on GBM management.

Current strategic arsenal and advances in nose to brain nanotheranostics for therapeutic intervention of glioblastoma multiforme

The fight against Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is ongoing and the long-term outlook for GBM remains challenging due to low prognosis but every breakthrough brings us closer to improving patient outcomes. Significant hurdles in GBM are heterogeneity, fortified tumor location, and blood-brain barrier (BBB), hindering adequate drug concentrations within functioning brain regions, thus leading to low survival rates. The nasal passageway has become an appealing location to commence the course of cancer therapy. Utilization of the nose-to-brain (N2B) route for drug delivery takes a sidestep from the BBB to allow therapeutics to directly access the central nervous system (CNS) and enhance drug localization in the vicinity of the tumor. This comprehensive review provides insights into pertinent anatomy and cellular organization of the nasal cavity, present-day diagnostic tools, intracranial invasive therapies, and advancements in intranasal (IN) therapies in GBM models for better clinical outcomes. Also, this review highlights groundbreaking carriers and delivery techniques that could revolutionize GBM management such as biomimetics, image guiding-drug delivery, and photodynamic and photothermal therapies for GBM management.

Recent advances in development and delivery of non-viral nucleic acid therapeutics for brain tumor therapy

High grade gliomas (HGG) are a group of CNS tumors refractory to currently existing therapies, which routinely leads to early recurrence and a dismal prognosis. Recent advancements in nucleic acid-based therapy using a wide variety of different molecular targets and non-viral nanocarrier systems suggest that this approach holds significant potential to meet the urgent demand for improved therapeutic options for the treatment of these tumors. This review provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview on the current landscape and progress of preclinical and clinical developments in this rapidly evolving and exciting field of research, including optimized nanocarrier delivery systems, promising therapeutic targets and tailor-made therapeutic strategies for individualized HGG patient treatment.

Exosomal MiRNA Therapy for Central Nervous System Injury Diseases

Central nervous system diseases include central nervous system injury diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and other conditions. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of gene expression, with therapeutic potential in modulating genes, pathways, and cells associated with central nervous system injury diseases. This article comprehensively reviews the therapeutic role of exosomal miRNAs in various central nervous system injury diseases, including traumatic brain injury, ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, optic nerve injury, and spinal cord injury. This review covers the pathophysiology, animal models, miRNA transfection, administration methods, behavioral tests for evaluating treatment efficacy, and the mechanisms of action of miRNA-based therapies. Finally, this article discusses the future directions of miRNA therapy for central nervous system injury diseases.

An Update on Recent Drug Delivery Systems Targeting Brain Diseases via the Transnasal Pathway

OBJECTIVE

To explore the potential of transnasal drug delivery systems (DDS) as an effective means of bypassing the bloodbrain barrier (BBB) for enhanced central nervous system (CNS) targeting, aiming to improve therapeutic outcomes for CNS disorders while reducing systemic side effects.

METHODS

A review of current and emerging DDS technologies, including polymer nanoparticles, liposomes, and micelles, was conducted to assess their suitability for precision-targeted delivery to the brain through the transnasal route.

RESULTS

The investigated DDS demonstrate promising capabilities for CNS targeting via the nasal pathway, effectively preserving both the nasal mucosa and CNS integrity. These systems enhance drug precision within neural tissues, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes without harming adjacent tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

Transnasal DDS offer a promising alternative to traditional delivery methods, with significant potential to advance the treatment of cerebrovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, brain tumors, and psychiatric conditions. This approach represents an evolving frontier in neurotherapeutics, with the potential to transform CNS drug delivery practices.

Pulmonary delivery of cell membrane-derived nanovesicles carrying anti-miRNA155 oligonucleotides ameliorates LPS-induced acute lung injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a devastating inflammatory disease. MicroRNA155 (miR155) in alveolar macrophages and lung epithelial cells enhances inflammatory reactions by inhibiting the suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) in ALI. Anti-miR155 oligonucleotide (AMO155) have been suggested as a potential therapeutic reagent for ALI. However, a safe and efficient carrier is required for delivery of AMO155 into the lungs for ALI therapy. In this study, cell membrane-derived nanovesicles (CMNVs) were produced from cell membranes of LA4 mouse lung epithelial cells and evaluated as a carrier of AMO155 into the lungs. For preparation of CMNVs, cell membranes were isolated from LA4 cells and CMNVs were produced by extrusion. Cholesterol-conjugated AMO155 (AMO155c) was loaded into CMNVs and extracellular vesicles (EVs) by sonication. The physical characterization indicated that CMNVs with AMO155c (AMO155c/CMNV) were membrane-structured vesicles with a size of ∼120 nm. The delivery efficiency and therapeutic efficacy of CMNVs were compared with those of EVs or polyethylenimine (25 kDa, PEI25k). The delivery efficiency of AMO155c by CMNVs was similar to that by EVs. As a result, the miR155 levels were reduced by AMO155c/CMNV and AMO155c/EV. AMO155c/CMNV were administered intratracheally into the ALI models. The SOCS1 levels were increased more efficiently by AMO155c/CMNV than by the others, suggesting that miR155 effectively was inhibited by AMO155c/CMNV. In addition, the inflammatory cytokines were reduced more effectively by AMO155c/CMNV than they were by AMO155c/EV and AMO155c/PEI25k, reducing inflammation reactions. The results suggest that CMNVs are a useful carrier of AMO155c in the treatment of ALI.

Targeted Delivery of Nanoparticle-Conveyed Neutrophils to the Glioblastoma Site for Efficient Therapy

Glioblastoma is a common brain tumor that poses considerable challenges in drug delivery. In this study, we investigated the potential of cell-based nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery to the glioblastoma sites. The anticancer drug of temozolomide (TMZ)-loaded T7-cholesterol nanoparticle micelles efficiently delivered nanoparticles to neutrophils and, subsequently, to the tumors. T7 is a cell-penetrating peptide that enhances the delivery of T7/TMZ to the target cells. T7 also serves as a transferrin target peptide, enabling targeted delivery to tumors. T7-conjugated cholesterol can self-assemble into micelles in aqueous solution and attach to the membrane of neutrophils. We confirmed that T7/TMZ nanoparticle micelles were efficiently located inside the neutrophils. Thereafter, T7/TMZ-conveyed neutrophils were administered to a glioblastoma mouse model, enabling neutrophils to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and deliver drugs directly to the tumor site. We evaluated the drug delivery efficiency and therapeutic effects of intravenous injection of T7/TMZ-conveyed neutrophils to a glioblastoma mouse model. These results demonstrate the promising role of neutrophil-based nanoparticle delivery systems in the targeted therapy of glioblastoma.

Peptide-Hitchhiking for the Development of Nanosystems in Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) remains the epitome of aggressiveness and lethality in the spectrum of brain tumors, primarily due to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) that hinders effective treatment delivery, tumor heterogeneity, and the presence of treatment-resistant stem cells that contribute to tumor recurrence. Nanoparticles (NPs) have been used to overcome these obstacles by attaching targeting ligands to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Among these ligands, peptides stand out due to their ease of synthesis and high selectivity. This article aims to review single and multiligand strategies critically. In addition, it highlights other strategies that integrate the effects of external stimuli, biomimetic approaches, and chemical approaches as nanocatalytic medicine, revealing their significant potential in treating GBM with peptide-functionalized NPs. Alternative routes of parenteral administration, specifically nose-to-brain delivery and local treatment within the resected tumor cavity, are also discussed. Finally, an overview of the significant obstacles and potential strategies to overcome them are discussed to provide a perspective on this promising field of GBM therapy.

Nose-to-brain selective drug delivery to glioma via ferritin-based nanovectors reduces tumor growth and improves survival rate

Gliomas are among the most fatal tumors, and the available therapeutic options are very limited. Additionally, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) prevents most drugs from entering the brain. We designed and produced a ferritin-based stimuli-sensitive nanocarrier with high biocompatibility and water solubility. It can incorporate high amounts of the potent topoisomerase 1 inhibitor Genz-644282. Here, we show that this nanocarrier, named The-0504, can cross the BBB and specifically deliver the payload to gliomas that express high amounts of the ferritin/transferrin receptor TfR1 (CD71). Intranasal or intravenous administration of The-0504 both reduce tumor growth and improve the survival rate of glioma-bearing mice. However, nose-to-brain administration is a simpler and less invasive route that may spare most of the healthy tissues compared to intravenous injections. For this reason, the data reported here could pave the way towards a new, safe, and direct ferritin-based drug delivery method for brain diseases, especially brain tumors.

The mechanisms of MicroRNA 21 in premature ovarian insufficiency mice with mesenchymal stem cells transplantation : The involved molecular and immunological mechanisms

Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell (UCMSC) transplantation has been deeply explored for premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) disease. However, the associated mechanism remains to be researched. To explore whether and how the microRNA 21 (miR-21) functions in POI mice with UCMSCs transplantation, the autoimmune-induced POI mice model was built up, transplanted with or without UCMSCs transfect with the LV-hsa-miR-21-5p/LV-hsa-miR-21-5p-inhibition, with the transfection efficiency analyzed by QRT-PCR. Mice hormone secretion and the anti-Zona pellucida antibody (AZPAb) levels were analyzed, the ovarian morphological changes and folliculogenesis were observed, and the ovarian apoptosis cells were detected to evaluate ovarian function. The expression and localization of the PTEN/Akt/FOXO3a signal pathway-related cytokines were analyzed in mice ovaries.Additionally, the spleen levels of CD8 + CD28-T cells were tested and qualified with its significant secretory factor, interleukin 10 (IL-10). We found that with the LV-hsa-miR-21-5p-inhibition-UCMSCs transplantation, the mice ovarian function can be hardly recovered than mice with LV-NC-UCMSCs transplantation, and the PTEN/Akt/FOXO3a signal pathway was activated. The expression levels of the CD8 + CD28-T cells were decreased, with the decreased levels of the IL-10 expression. In contrast, in mice with the LV-hsa-miR-21-5p-UCMSCs transplantation, the injured ovarian function can be reversed, and the PTEN/AKT/FOXO3a signal pathway was detected activated, with the increased levels of the CD8 + CD28-T cells, and the increased serum levels of IL-10. In conclusion, miR-21 improves the ovarian function recovery of POI mice with UCMSCs transplantation, and the mechanisms may be through suppressing the PTEN/AKT/FOXO3a signal pathway and up-regulating the circulating of the CD8 + CD28-T cells.

Engineered smart materials for RNA based molecular therapy to treat Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive malignancy of the central nervous system (CNS) that remains incurable despite the multitude of improvements in cancer therapeutics. The conventional chemo and radiotherapy post-surgery have only been able to improve the prognosis slightly; however, the development of resistance and/or tumor recurrence is almost inevitable. There is a pressing need for adjuvant molecular therapies that can successfully and efficiently block tumor progression. During the last few decades, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as key players in regulating various hallmarks of cancer including that of GBM. The levels of many ncRNAs are dysregulated in cancer, and ectopic modulation of their levels by delivering antagonists or overexpression constructs could serve as an attractive option for cancer therapy. The therapeutic potential of several types of ncRNAs, including miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs, has been validated in both in vitro and in vivo models of GBM. However, the delivery of these RNA-based therapeutics is highly challenging, especially to the tumors of the brain as the blood-brain barrier (BBB) poses as a major obstacle, among others. Also, since RNA is extremely fragile in nature, careful considerations must be met while designing a delivery agent. In this review we have shed light on how ncRNA therapy can overcome the limitations of its predecessor conventional therapy with an emphasis on smart nanomaterials that can aide in the safe and targeted delivery of nucleic acids to treat GBM. Additionally, critical gaps that currently exist for successful transition from viral to non-viral vector delivery systems have been identified. Finally, we have provided a perspective on the future directions, potential pathways, and target areas for achieving rapid clinical translation of, RNA-based macromolecular therapy to advance the effective treatment of GBM and other related diseases.

Nanotechnology for enhanced nose-to-brain drug delivery in treating neurological diseases

Despite the increasing global incidence of brain disorders, achieving sufficient delivery towards the central nervous system (CNS) remains a formidable challenge in terms of translating into improved clinical outcomes. The brain is highly safeguarded by physiological barriers, primarily the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which routinely excludes most therapeutics from entering the brain following systemic administration. Among various strategies investigated to circumvent this challenge, intranasal administration, a noninvasive method that bypasses the BBB to allow direct access of drugs to the CNS, has been showing promising results. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems, in particular, have demonstrated remarkable capacities in overcoming the challenges posed by nose-to-brain drug delivery and facilitating targeted drug accumulation within the brain while minimizing side effects of systemic distribution. This review comprehensively summarizes the barriers of nose-to-brain drug delivery, aiming to enhance our understanding of potential physiological obstacles and improve the efficacy of nasal delivery in future trials. We then highlight cutting-edge nanotechnology-based studies that enhance nose-to-brain drug delivery in three key aspects, demonstrating substantial potential for improved treatment of brain diseases. Furthermore, the attention towards clinical studies will ease the regulatory approval process for nasal administration of nanomedicines targeting brain disease.

The roles of different microRNAs in the regulation of cholesterol in viral hepatitis

Cholesterol plays a significant role in stabilizing lipid or membrane rafts, which are specific cellular membrane structures. Cholesterol is involved in numerous cellular processes, including regulating virus entry into the host cell. Multiple viruses have been shown to rely on cholesterol for virus entry and/or morphogenesis. Research indicates that reprogramming of the host's lipid metabolism is associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in the progression to severe liver disease for viruses that cause chronic hepatitis. Moreover, knowing the precise mode of viral interaction with target cells sheds light on viral pathogenesis and aids in the development of vaccines and therapeutic targets. As a result, the area of cholesterol-lowering therapy is quickly evolving and has many novel antiviral targets and medications. It has been shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) either directly or indirectly target the viral genome, preventing viral replication. Moreover, miRNAs have recently been shown to be strong post-transcriptional regulators of the genes involved in lipid metabolism, particularly those involved in cholesterol homeostasis. As important regulators of lipid homeostasis in several viral infections, miRNAs have recently come to light. In addition, multiple studies demonstrated that during viral infection, miRNAs modulate several enzymes in the mevalonate/cholesterol pathway. As cholesterol metabolism is essential to the life cycle of viral hepatitis and other viruses, a sophisticated understanding of miRNA regulation may contribute to the development of a novel anti-HCV treatment. The mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of miRNAs as cholesterol regulators against viral hepatitis are explored in this review. Video Abstract.

Recent advancements and theranostics strategies in glioblastoma therapy

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and lethal malignant brain tumor, and it is challenging to cure with surgery and treatment. The prevention of permanent brain damage and tumor invasion, which is the ultimate cause of recurrence, are major obstacles in GBM treatment. Besides, emerging treatment modalities and newer genetic findings are helping to understand and manage GBM in patients. Accordingly, researchers are focusing on advanced nanomaterials-based strategies for tackling the various problems associated with GBM. In this context, researchers explored novel strategies with various alternative treatment approaches such as early detection techniques and theranostics approaches. In this review, we have emphasized the recent advancement of GBM cellular models and their roles in designing GBM therapeutics. We have added a special emphasis on the novel genetic and drug target findings as well as strategies for early detection. Besides, we have discussed various theranostic approaches such as hyperthermia therapy, phototherapy and image-guided therapy. Approaches utilized for targeted drug delivery to the GBM were also discussed. This article also describes the recentin vivo, in vitroandex vivoadvances using innovative theranostic approaches.

Recent Trends in the Use of Small Extracellular Vesicles as Optimal Drug Delivery Vehicles in Oncology

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are produced by most cells and play an important role in cell-to-cell communication and maintaining cellular homeostasis. Their ability to transfer biological cargo to target cells makes them a promising tool for cancer drug delivery. Advances in sEV engineering, EV mimetics, and ligand-directed targeting have improved the efficacy of anticancer drug delivery and functionality. EV-based RNA interference and hybrid miRNA transfer have also been extensively used in various preclinical cancer models. Despite these developments, gaps still exist in our understanding of using sEVs to treat solid tumor malignancies effectively. This article provides an overview of the last five years of sEV research and its current status for the efficient and targeted elimination of cancer cells, which could advance cancer research and bring sEV formulations into clinical use.

Nucleic Acid Probes in Bio-Imaging and Diagnostics: Recent Advances in ODN-Based Fluorescent and Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Nanoparticle and Nanostructured Systems

Raman nanoparticle probes are a potent class of optical labels for the interrogation of pathological and physiological processes in cells, bioassays, and tissues. Herein, we review the recent advancements in fluorescent and Raman imaging using oligodeoxyribonucleotide (ODN)-based nanoparticles and nanostructures, which show promise as effective tools for live-cell analysis. These nanodevices can be used to investigate a vast number of biological processes occurring at various levels, starting from those involving organelles, cells, tissues, and whole living organisms. ODN-based fluorescent and Raman probes have contributed to the achievement of significant advancements in the comprehension of the role played by specific analytes in pathological processes and have inaugurated new possibilities for diagnosing health conditions. The technological implications that have emerged from the studies herein described could open new avenues for innovative diagnostics aimed at identifying socially relevant diseases like cancer through the utilization of intracellular markers and/or guide surgical procedures based on fluorescent or Raman imaging. Particularly complex probe structures have been developed within the past five years, creating a versatile toolbox for live-cell analysis, with each tool possessing its own strengths and limitations for specific studies. Analyzing the literature reports in the field, we predict that the development of ODN-based fluorescent and Raman probes will continue in the near future, disclosing novel ideas on their application in therapeutic and diagnostic strategies.