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Lica JJ, Gucwa K, Heldt M, Stupak A, Maciejewska N, Ptaszyńska N, Łęgowska A, Pradhan B, Gitlin-Domagalska A, Dębowski D, Jakóbkiewicz-Banecka J, Rolka K. Lactoferricin B Combined with Antibiotics Exhibits Leukemic Selectivity and Antimicrobial Activity. Molecules 2024; 29:678. [PMID: 38338422 PMCID: PMC10856415 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29030678] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The fusion of penetrating peptides (PPs), e.g., cell penetration peptides (CPPs) or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), together with antimicrobial agents is an expanding research field. Specific AMPs, such as lactoferricin B (LfcinB), have demonstrated strong antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic activity, as well as valuable anticancer activity, proving beneficial in the development of anticancer conjugates. The resulting conjugates offer potential dual functionality, acting as both an anticancer and an antimicrobial agent. This is especially necessary in cancer treatment, where microbial infections pose a critical risk. Leukemic cells frequently exhibit altered outer lipid membranes compared to healthy cells, making them more sensitive to compounds that interfere with their membrane. In this study, we revisited and reanalyzed our earlier research on LfcinB and its conjugates. Furthermore, we carried out new experiments with a specific focus on cell proliferation, changes in membrane asymmetric phosphatidylserine location, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial functions, and in vitro bacterial topoisomerase inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Jakub Lica
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Gucwa
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Mateusz Heldt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Anna Stupak
- Polpharma Biologics S.A., Gdansk Science & Technology Park, 80-172 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Natalia Maciejewska
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Natalia Ptaszyńska
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Anna Łęgowska
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Bhaskar Pradhan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agata Gitlin-Domagalska
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Dawid Dębowski
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | | | - Krzysztof Rolka
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
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2
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Zhang T, Luo X, Xu K, Zhong W. Peptide-containing nanoformulations: Skin barrier penetration and activity contribution. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 203:115139. [PMID: 37951358 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Transdermal drug delivery presents a less invasive pathway, circumventing the need to pass through the gastrointestinal tract and liver, thereby reducing drug breakdown, initial metabolism, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Nevertheless, the unique composition and dense structure of the stratum corneum present a significant barrier to transdermal delivery. This article presents an overview of the current developments in peptides and nanotechnology to address this challenge. Initially, we sum up peptide-containing nanoformulations for transdermal drug delivery, examining them through the lenses of both inorganic and organic materials. Particular emphasis is placed on the diverse roles that peptides play within these nanoformulations, including conferring functionality upon nanocarriers and enhancing the biological efficacy of drugs. Subsequently, we summarize innovative strategies for enhancing skin penetration, categorizing them into passive and active approaches. Lastly, we discuss the therapeutic potential of peptide-containing nanoformulations in addressing a range of diseases, drawing insights from the biological activities and functions of peptides. Furthermore, the challenges hindering clinical translation are also discussed, providing valuable insights for future advancements in transdermal drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xuan Luo
- Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Keming Xu
- Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Wenying Zhong
- Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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3
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Alamdari-Palangi V, Jaberi KR, Shahverdi M, Naeimzadeh Y, Tajbakhsh A, Khajeh S, Razban V, Fallahi J. Recent advances and applications of peptide-agent conjugates for targeting tumor cells. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:15249-15273. [PMID: 37581648 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05144-9] [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: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer, being a complex disease, presents a major challenge for the scientific and medical communities. Peptide therapeutics have played a significant role in different medical practices, including cancer treatment. METHOD This review provides an overview of the current situation and potential development prospects of anticancer peptides (ACPs), with a particular focus on peptide vaccines and peptide-drug conjugates for cancer treatment. RESULTS ACPs can be used directly as cytotoxic agents (molecularly targeted peptides) or can act as carriers (guiding missile) of chemotherapeutic agents and radionuclides by specifically targeting cancer cells. More than 60 natural and synthetic cationic peptides are approved in the USA and other major markets for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Compared to traditional cancer treatments, peptides exhibit anticancer activity with high specificity and the ability to rapidly kill target cancer cells. ACP's target and kill cancer cells via different mechanisms, including membrane disruption, pore formation, induction of apoptosis, necrosis, autophagy, and regulation of the immune system. Modified peptides have been developed as carriers for drugs, vaccines, and peptide-drug conjugates, which have been evaluated in various phases of clinical trials for the treatment of different types of solid and leukemia cancer. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights the potential of ACPs as a promising therapeutic option for cancer treatment, particularly through the use of peptide vaccines and peptide-drug conjugates. Despite the limitations of peptides, such as poor metabolic stability and low bioavailability, modified peptides show promise in addressing these challenges. Various mechanism of action of anticancer peptides. Modes of action against cancer cells including: inducing apoptosis by cytochrome c release, direct cell membrane lysis (necrosis), inhibiting angiogenesis, inducing autophagy-mediated cell death and immune cell regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahab Alamdari-Palangi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 7133654361, Iran
| | - Khojaste Rahimi Jaberi
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahshid Shahverdi
- Medical Biotechnology Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Yasaman Naeimzadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 7133654361, Iran
| | - Amir Tajbakhsh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 7133654361, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sahar Khajeh
- Bone and Joint Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Vahid Razban
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 7133654361, Iran.
| | - Jafar Fallahi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 7133654361, Iran.
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4
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Chavda VP, Solanki HK, Davidson M, Apostolopoulos V, Bojarska J. Peptide-Drug Conjugates: A New Hope for Cancer Management. Molecules 2022; 27:7232. [PMID: 36364057 PMCID: PMC9658517 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27217232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 08/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains the leading cause of death worldwide despite advances in treatment options for patients. As such, safe and effective therapeutics are required. Short peptides provide advantages to be used in cancer management due to their unique properties, amazing versatility, and progress in biotechnology to overcome peptide limitations. Several appealing peptide-based therapeutic strategies have been developed. Here, we provide an overview of peptide conjugates, the better equivalents of antibody-drug conjugates, as the next generation of drugs for required precise targeting, enhanced cellular permeability, improved drug selectivity, and reduced toxicity for the efficient treatment of cancers. We discuss the basic components of drug conjugates and their release action, including the release of cytotoxins from the linker. We also present peptide-drug conjugates under different stages of clinical development as well as regulatory and other challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek P. Chavda
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, L M College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380008, Gujarat, India
| | - Hetvi K. Solanki
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, L M College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380008, Gujarat, India
| | - Majid Davidson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
- Immunology Program, Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia
| | - Joanna Bojarska
- Institute of General and Ecological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, 116 Zeromskiego Street, 90-924 Lodz, Poland
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5
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Peptide-Based Bioconjugates and Therapeutics for Targeted Anticancer Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14071378. [PMID: 35890274 PMCID: PMC9320687 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14071378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
With rapidly growing knowledge in bioinformatics related to peptides and proteins, amino acid-based drug-design strategies have recently gained importance in pharmaceutics. In the past, peptide-based biomedicines were not widely used due to the associated severe physiological problems, such as low selectivity and rapid degradation in biological systems. However, various interesting peptide-based therapeutics combined with drug-delivery systems have recently emerged. Many of these candidates have been developed for anticancer therapy that requires precisely targeted effects and low toxicity. These research trends have become more diverse and complex owing to nanomedicine and antibody–drug conjugates (ADC), showing excellent therapeutic efficacy. Various newly developed peptide–drug conjugates (PDC), peptide-based nanoparticles, and prodrugs could represent a promising therapeutic strategy for patients. In this review, we provide valuable insights into rational drug design and development for future pharmaceutics.
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6
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Lath A, Santal AR, Kaur N, Kumari P, Singh NP. Anti-cancer peptides: their current trends in the development of peptide-based therapy and anti-tumor drugs. Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev 2022; 39:45-84. [PMID: 35699384 DOI: 10.1080/02648725.2022.2082157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Human cancer remains a cause of high mortality throughout the world. The conventional methods and therapies currently employed for treatment are followed by moderate-to-severe side effects. They have not generated curative results due to the ineffectiveness of treatments. Besides, the associated high costs, technical requirements, and cytotoxicity further characterize their limitations. Due to relatively higher presidencies, bioactive peptides with anti-cancer attributes have recently become treatment choices within the therapeutic arsenal. The peptides act as potential anti-cancer agents explicitly targeting tumor cells while being less toxic to normal cells. The anti-cancer peptides are isolated from various natural sources, exhibit high selectivity and high penetration efficiency, and could be quickly restructured. The therapeutic benefits of compatible anti-cancer peptides have contributed to the significant expansion of cancer treatment; albeit, the mechanisms by which bioactive peptides inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells remain unclear. This review will provide a framework for assessing anti-cancer peptides' structural and functional aspects. It shall provide appropriate information on their mode of action to support and strengthen efforts to improve cancer prevention. The article will mention the therapeutic health benefits of anti-cancer peptides. Their importance in clinical studies is elaborated for reducing cancer incidences and developing sustainable treatment models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Lath
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | - Anita Rani Santal
- Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | - Nameet Kaur
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida, India
| | - Poonam Kumari
- Sophisticated Analytical Instrumentation Facility, CIL and UCIM, Punjab University, Chandigarh, Inida
| | - Nater Pal Singh
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
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7
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Valenti GE, Alfei S, Caviglia D, Domenicotti C, Marengo B. Antimicrobial Peptides and Cationic Nanoparticles: A Broad-Spectrum Weapon to Fight Multi-Drug Resistance Not Only in Bacteria. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116108. [PMID: 35682787 PMCID: PMC9181033 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last few years, antibiotic resistance and, analogously, anticancer drug resistance have increased considerably, becoming one of the main public health problems. For this reason, it is crucial to find therapeutic strategies able to counteract the onset of multi-drug resistance (MDR). In this review, a critical overview of the innovative tools available today to fight MDR is reported. In this direction, the use of membrane-disruptive peptides/peptidomimetics (MDPs), such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), has received particular attention, due to their high selectivity and to their limited side effects. Moreover, similarities between bacteria and cancer cells are herein reported and the hypothesis of the possible use of AMPs also in anticancer therapies is discussed. However, it is important to take into account the limitations that could negatively impact clinical application and, in particular, the need for an efficient delivery system. In this regard, the use of nanoparticles (NPs) is proposed as a potential strategy to improve therapy; moreover, among polymeric NPs, cationic ones are emerging as promising tools able to fight the onset of MDR both in bacteria and in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia E. Valenti
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), General Pathology Section, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.E.V.); (B.M.)
| | - Silvana Alfei
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, 16148 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Debora Caviglia
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| | - Cinzia Domenicotti
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), General Pathology Section, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.E.V.); (B.M.)
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-010-353-8830
| | - Barbara Marengo
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), General Pathology Section, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.E.V.); (B.M.)
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy
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8
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Jafari A, Babajani A, Sarrami Forooshani R, Yazdani M, Rezaei-Tavirani M. Clinical Applications and Anticancer Effects of Antimicrobial Peptides: From Bench to Bedside. Front Oncol 2022; 12:819563. [PMID: 35280755 PMCID: PMC8904739 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.819563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a multifaceted global health issue and one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In recent years, medical science has achieved great advances in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Despite the numerous advantages of conventional cancer therapies, there are major drawbacks including severe side effects, toxicities, and drug resistance. Therefore, the urgency of developing new drugs with low cytotoxicity and treatment resistance is increasing. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have attracted attention as a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of various cancers, targeting tumor cells with less toxicity to normal tissues. In this review, we present the structure, biological function, and underlying mechanisms of AMPs. The recent experimental studies and clinical trials on anticancer peptides in different cancer types as well as the challenges of their clinical application have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameneh Jafari
- Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (ATMP) Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirhesam Babajani
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Sarrami Forooshani
- Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (ATMP) Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Yazdani
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Drug Design, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Rezaei-Tavirani
- Proteomics Research Center, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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9
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Rahman R, Fonseka AD, Sua S, Ahmad M, Rajendran R, Ambu S, Davamani F, Khoo AS, Chitra E. Inhibition of breast cancer xenografts in a mouse model and the induction of apoptosis in multiple breast cancer cell lines by lactoferricin B peptide. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:7181-7189. [PMID: 34236134 PMCID: PMC8335703 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer has a diverse aetiology characterized by the heterogeneous expression of hormone receptors and signalling molecules, resulting in varied sensitivity to chemotherapy. The adverse side effects of chemotherapy coupled with the development of drug resistance have prompted the exploration of natural products to combat cancer. Lactoferricin B (LfcinB) is a natural peptide derived from bovine lactoferrin that exhibits anticancer properties. LfcinB was evaluated in vitro for its inhibitory effects on cell lines representing different categories of breast cancer and in vivo for its suppressive effects on tumour xenografts in NOD-SCID mice. The different breast cancer cell lines exhibited varied levels of sensitivity to apoptosis induced by LfcinB in the order of SKBR3>MDA-MB-231>MDA-MB-468>MCF7, while the normal breast epithelial cells MCF-10A were not sensitive to LfcinB. The peptide also inhibited the invasion of the MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cell lines. In the mouse xenograft model, intratumoural injections of LfcinB significantly reduced tumour growth rate and tumour size, as depicted by live imaging of the mice using in vivo imaging systems (IVIS). Harvested tumour volume and weight were significantly reduced by LfcinB treatment. LfcinB, therefore, is a promising and safe candidate that can be considered for the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rizdwan Rahman
- School of Post Graduate StudiesInternational Medical UniversityKuala LumpurMalaysia
| | | | - Shiang‐Chia Sua
- School of MedicineInternational Medical UniversityKuala LumpurMalaysia
| | - Munirah Ahmad
- Molecular Pathology UnitCancer Research CentreInstitute for Medical ResearchNational Institutes of HealthMinistry of Health MalaysiaShah Alam, SelangorMalaysia
| | | | - Stephen Ambu
- School of Post Graduate StudiesInternational Medical UniversityKuala LumpurMalaysia
| | - Fabian Davamani
- School of Health SciencesInternational Medical UniversityKuala LumpurMalaysia
| | - Alan Soo‐Beng Khoo
- School of Post Graduate StudiesInternational Medical UniversityKuala LumpurMalaysia
- Molecular Pathology UnitCancer Research CentreInstitute for Medical ResearchNational Institutes of HealthMinistry of Health MalaysiaShah Alam, SelangorMalaysia
- Institute for ResearchDevelopment and InnovationInternational Medical UniversityKuala LumpurMalaysia
| | - Ebenezer Chitra
- School of Health SciencesInternational Medical UniversityKuala LumpurMalaysia
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10
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Ramamourthy G, Vogel HJ. Antibiofilm activity of lactoferrin-derived synthetic peptides against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. Biochem Cell Biol 2020; 99:138-148. [PMID: 32871093 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2020-0253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Many pathogenic bacteria can protect themselves from the effects of antibiotics and the host immune response system by forming biofilms. Biofilms are polymer-entrapped bacterial cells, which adhere to each other and are often attached to a surface. Eradication of bacterial biofilms typically requires much higher concentrations of antibiotics than are normally needed to kill cultured planktonic cells, raising serious clinical concerns. In an attempt to prevent the formation of biofilms or to break up existing biofilms of pathogenic bacteria, herein we have used the standard crystal violet assay as well as the Calgary biofilm device to test several lactoferrin- and lactoferricin-derived antimicrobial peptides for their antibiofilm activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. Our results revealed that the short bovine lactoferricin-derived RRWQWR-NH2 (20-25) hexapeptide has no activity against P. aeruginosa PAO1. Moreover, the longer human lactoferricin-derived peptide GRRRRSVQWCA (1-11) and the bovine lactoferrampin (268-284) peptide were also almost devoid of activity. However, several different "mix-and-match" dimeric versions of the two lactoferricin-derived peptides proved quite effective in preventing the formation of biofilms at low concentrations, and in some cases, could even eradicate an existing biofilm. Moreover, the full-length bovine lactoferricinB (17-41) peptide also displayed considerable antimicrobial activity. Some of the longer lactoferricin-derived dimeric peptides acted through a bactericidal mechanism, whereas others seemed to interfere in cell-signalling processes. Taken together, our results indicate that synthetic dimeric peptides comprising short naturally occurring human and bovine lactoferricin constructs could be further developed as antibiofilm agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gopal Ramamourthy
- Biochemistry Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.,Biochemistry Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Hans J Vogel
- Biochemistry Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.,Biochemistry Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
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11
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Xie M, Liu D, Yang Y. Anti-cancer peptides: classification, mechanism of action, reconstruction and modification. Open Biol 2020; 10:200004. [PMID: 32692959 PMCID: PMC7574553 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-cancer peptides (ACPs) are a series of short peptides composed of 10-60 amino acids that can inhibit tumour cell proliferation or migration, or suppress the formation of tumour blood vessels, and are less likely to cause drug resistance. The aforementioned merits make ACPs the most promising anti-cancer candidate. However, ACPs may be degraded by proteases, or result in cytotoxicity in many cases. To overcome these drawbacks, a plethora of research has focused on reconstruction or modification of ACPs to improve their anti-cancer activity, while reducing their cytotoxicity. The modification of ACPs mainly includes main chain reconstruction and side chain modification. After summarizing the classification and mechanism of action of ACPs, this paper focuses on recent development and progress about their reconstruction and modification. The information collected here may provide some ideas for further research on ACPs, in particular their modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingfeng Xie
- Department of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519040, People's Republic of China
| | - Dijia Liu
- Department of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519040, People's Republic of China
| | - Yufeng Yang
- Department of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519040, People's Republic of China.,Zhuhai Key Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Research in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zunyi Medical University Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519040, People's Republic of China
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12
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Ștefanache T, Forna N, Bădescu M, Jitaru D, Dragos ML, Rezuș C, Diaconescu BM, Bădulescu O, Rezuș E, Ciocoiu M, Bădescu C. Modulation of the activity of certain genes involved in tumor cell metabolism in the presence of the cytotoxic peptides defensin and cathelicidin LL37. Exp Ther Med 2019; 18:5033-5040. [PMID: 31819768 PMCID: PMC6895780 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.8117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
It is common knowledge that some natural antimicrobial peptides also have a tumoricidal effect. We have shown that the peptides defensin and cathelicidin LL37 have cytostatic effects on human tumor cell lines HT29 (colorectal carcinoma) and A549 (alveolar carcinoma). In order to determine the modulating mechanism of these peptides we assessed the gene expression of the AKT, HIF-1α, XBP, NRF2, PERK, CHOP, BCL2, IRE1α and PI3K molecular targets involved in the survival, growth, proliferation and apoptosis pathways of tumor cells in the presence or absence of the studied peptides. Thus, this research enabled us to determine molecular markers and methods of assessment and monitoring of tumor cell cytotoxicity by high-performance molecular biology techniques. Defensin and cathelicidin LL37 activated tumor cell apoptosis, especially for the HT29, but also for A549 line, by increasing gene expression of CHOP and by lowering BCL2 gene expression. Oxidative stress determined the increase in gene expression of XBP, which directly influenced CHOP. The decrease in NRF2 gene expression highlighted the inhibition of cell proliferation, while the decrease in HIF1α gene expression evidenced the decrease in cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodor Ștefanache
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Grigore T. Popa', 700115 Iaşi, Romania
| | - Norina Forna
- Department of Implantology, Dental Medicine, 700115 Iaşi, Romania
| | - Magda Bădescu
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Grigore T. Popa', 700115 Iaşi, Romania
| | - Daniela Jitaru
- Regional Institute of Oncology Iasi, 700115 Iaşi, Romania
| | | | - Ciprian Rezuș
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Grigore T. Popa', 700115 Iaşi, Romania
| | - Bogdan Mihail Diaconescu
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Grigore T. Popa', 700115 Iaşi, Romania
| | - Oana Bădulescu
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Grigore T. Popa', 700115 Iaşi, Romania
| | - Elena Rezuș
- Rehabilitation Hospital of Iasi, Rheumatology Clinic, University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Grigore T. Popa', 700115 Iaşi, Romania
| | - Manuela Ciocoiu
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Grigore T. Popa', 700115 Iaşi, Romania
| | - Codruta Bădescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Grigore T. Popa', 700115 Iaşi, Romania
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Guerra JR, Cárdenas AB, Ochoa-Zarzosa A, Meza JL, Umaña Pérez A, Fierro-Medina R, Rivera Monroy ZJ, García Castañeda JE. The tetrameric peptide LfcinB (20-25) 4 derived from bovine lactoferricin induces apoptosis in the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. RSC Adv 2019; 9:20497-20504. [PMID: 35515557 PMCID: PMC9065741 DOI: 10.1039/c9ra04145a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The cytotoxic effect of the tetrameric peptide LfcinB (20-25)4 against breast cancer cell line ATCC® HTB-22™ (MCF-7) was evaluated. The tetrameric peptide exhibited a concentration-dependent cytotoxic effect against MCF-7 cancer cells. The peptide at 22 µM had the maximum cytotoxic effect against MCF-7 cancer cells, reducing their cell viability to ∼20%. The cytotoxic effect of the tetrameric peptide against MCF-7 cells was sustained for 24 hours. Furthermore, the tetrameric peptide did not exhibit a significant cytotoxic effect against the non-tumorogenic trophoblastic cell line, which confirms their selectivity for breast cancer cell lines. The MCF-7 cells treated at 12.2 µM for 1 h exhibited morphological changes characteristic of apoptosis, such as rounded forms and cellular shrinkage. Furthermore, this peptide induces severe cellular damage to MCF-7 cells, mitochondrial membrane depolarization, and increase of cytoplasmic calcium concentration. Our results suggest that it has a significant selective cytotoxic effect against MCF-7 cells, which may be mainly associated with the apoptotic pathway. This peptide, which contains the RRWQWR motif, could be considered to be a promising candidate for developing therapeutic agents for the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Rodríguez Guerra
- Pharmacy Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No. 26-85, Building 450, Office 213 11321 Bogotá Colombia +57-1-316-5000 ext. 14436
| | - Andrea Barragán Cárdenas
- Chemistry Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No. 26-85, Building 451, Office 409 11321 Bogotá Colombia
| | - Alejandra Ochoa-Zarzosa
- Multidisciplinary Center for Studies in Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo Km 9.5 Carretera Morelia-Zinapécuaro Mexico
| | - Joel López Meza
- Multidisciplinary Center for Studies in Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo Km 9.5 Carretera Morelia-Zinapécuaro Mexico
| | - Adriana Umaña Pérez
- Chemistry Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No. 26-85, Building 451, Office 409 11321 Bogotá Colombia
| | - Ricardo Fierro-Medina
- Chemistry Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No. 26-85, Building 451, Office 409 11321 Bogotá Colombia
| | - Zuly Jenny Rivera Monroy
- Chemistry Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No. 26-85, Building 451, Office 409 11321 Bogotá Colombia
| | - Javier Eduardo García Castañeda
- Pharmacy Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No. 26-85, Building 450, Office 213 11321 Bogotá Colombia +57-1-316-5000 ext. 14436
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14
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Hilchie AL, Hoskin DW, Power Coombs MR. Anticancer Activities of Natural and Synthetic Peptides. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1117:131-147. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-3588-4_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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15
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Effect of Polyvalence on the Antibacterial Activity of a Synthetic Peptide Derived from Bovine Lactoferricin against Healthcare-Associated Infectious Pathogens. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:5252891. [PMID: 29984236 PMCID: PMC6015718 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5252891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are gaining interest as potential therapeutic agents. Peptides derived from bovine lactoferricin B (LfcinB) have been reported to exhibit antimicrobial activity, and the LfcinB RRWQWR sequence is the smallest known motif that exhibits antibacterial and cytotoxic activity. Our goal was to examine the effect of multicopy arrangements of the RRWQWR motif, on its antibacterial activity against healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). Linear and branched peptides containing the RRWQWR motif were generated using solid phase peptide synthesis-Fmoc/tBu methodology, purified, and characterized using reverse phase-high performance liquid chromatography and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry. For each peptide, the antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923 and 33591 strains) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 13883 and 700603 strains) was assessed by measuring the minimum inhibitory and the minimum bactericidal concentrations, in the exponential phase. Cells were observed by scanning electron microscopy, and the hemolytic activity of the peptides was assessed. The overall results demonstrate that, compared to linear analogues, polyvalent presentation of the RRWQWR motif enhances its antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria even on resistant strain.
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16
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Vargas Casanova Y, Rodríguez Guerra JA, Umaña Pérez YA, Leal Castro AL, Almanzar Reina G, García Castañeda JE, Rivera Monroy ZJ. Antibacterial Synthetic Peptides Derived from Bovine Lactoferricin Exhibit Cytotoxic Effect against MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cell Lines. Molecules 2017; 22:E1641. [PMID: 28961215 PMCID: PMC6151437 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22101641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Linear, dimeric, tetrameric, and cyclic peptides derived from lactoferricin B, containing the RRWQWR motif, were designed, synthesized, purified, and characterized using RP-HPLC chromatography and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. The antibacterial activity of the designed peptides against E. coli (ATCC 11775 and 25922) and their cytotoxic effect against MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines were evaluated. Dimeric and tetrameric peptides showed higher antibacterial activity in both bacteria strains than linear peptides. The dimeric peptide (RRWQWR)₂K-Ahx exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against the tested bacterial strains. Furthermore, the peptides with high antibacterial activity exhibited significant cytotoxic effect against the tested breast cancer cell lines. This cytotoxic effect was fast and dependent on the peptide concentration. The tetrameric molecule containing RRWQWR motif has an optimal cytotoxic effect at a concentration of 22 µM. The evaluated dimeric and tetrameric peptides could be considered as candidates for developing new therapeutic agents against breast cancer. Polyvalence of linear sequences could be considered as a novel and versatile strategy for obtaining molecules with high anticancer activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yerly Vargas Casanova
- Biotechnology Institute, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45 No 26-85, 11321 Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Jorge Antonio Rodríguez Guerra
- Pharmacy Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45 No 26-85, Building 450, Office 213, 11321 Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Yadi Adriana Umaña Pérez
- Chemistry Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45 No 26-85, Building 450, Office 213, 11321 Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Aura Lucía Leal Castro
- Medicine Faculty, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45 No 26-85, Building 450, Office 213, 11321 Bogotá, Colombia.
| | | | - Javier Eduardo García Castañeda
- Pharmacy Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45 No 26-85, Building 450, Office 213, 11321 Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Zuly Jenny Rivera Monroy
- Chemistry Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45 No 26-85, Building 450, Office 213, 11321 Bogotá, Colombia.
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17
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A tetrameric peptide derived from bovine lactoferricin as a potential therapeutic tool for oral squamous cell carcinoma: A preclinical model. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0174707. [PMID: 28358840 PMCID: PMC5373611 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0174707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma is the fifth most common epithelial cancer in the world, and its current clinical treatment has both low efficiency and poor selectivity. Cationic amphipathic peptides have been proposed as new drugs for the treatment of different types of cancer. The main goal of the present work was to determine the potential of LfcinB(20–25)4, a tetrameric peptide based on the core sequence RRWQWR of bovine lactoferricin LfcinB(20–25), for the treatment of OSCC. In brief, OSCC was induced in the buccal pouch of hamsters by applying 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene, and tumors were treated with one of the following peptides: LfcinB(20–25)4, LfcinB(20–25), or vehicle (control). Lesions were macroscopically evaluated every two days and both histological and serum IgG assessments were conducted after 5 weeks. The size of the tumors treated with LfcinB(20–25)4 and LfcinB(20–25) was smaller than that of the control group (46.16±4.41 and 33.92±2.74 mm3 versus 88.77±10.61 mm3, respectively). Also, LfcinB(20–25)4 caused acellularity in the parenchymal tumor compared with LfcinB(20–25) and vehicle treatments. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that both LfcinB(20–25)4 and LfcinB(20–25) induced higher degree of apoptosis relative to the untreated tumors (75–86% vs 8%, respectively). Moreover, although the lowest inflammatory response was achieved when LfcinB(20–25)4 was used, this peptide appeared to induce higher levels of IgG antibodies relative to the vehicle and LfcinB(20–25). In addition the cellular damage and selectivity of the LfcinB(20–25)4 peptide was evaluated in vitro. These assays showed that LfcinB(20–25)4 triggers a selective necrotic effect in the carcinoma cell line. Cumulatively, these data indicate that LfcinB(20–25)4 could be considered as a new therapeutic agent for the treatment of OSCC.
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18
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Meng L, Xu G, Li J, Liu W, Jia W, Ma J, Wei D. Bovine lactoferricin P13 triggers ROS-mediated caspase-dependent apoptosis in SMMC7721 cells. Oncol Lett 2016; 13:511-517. [PMID: 28123590 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2016.5415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Bovine lactoferricin P13 (LfcinB-P13) is a peptide derived from LfcinB. In the present study, the effect of LfcinB-P13 on the human liver cancer cell line SMMC7721 was investigated in vitro and in vivo. The results of the present study indicate that LfcinB-P13 significantly decreased SMMC7721 cell viability in vitro (P=0.032 vs. untreated cells), while exhibiting low cytotoxicity in the wild-type liver cell line L02. In addition, the rate of apoptosis in SMMC7721 cells was significantly increased following treatment with 40 and 60 µg/ml LfcinB-P13 (P=0.0053 vs. the control group), which was associated with an increase in the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activation of caspase-3 and -9. Furthermore, ROS chelation led to the suppression of LfcinB-P13-mediated caspase-3 and -9 activation in SMMC7721 cells. LfcinB-P13 was demonstrated to markedly inhibit tumor growth in an SMMC7721-xenograft nude mouse model. The results of the present study indicate that LfcinB-P13 is a novel candidate therapeutic agent for the treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixiang Meng
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Provincial Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, P.R. China; Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Beijing Children's Hospital Group, Hefei, Anhui 230051, P.R. China
| | - Geliang Xu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Provincial Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, P.R. China
| | - Jiansheng Li
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Provincial Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, P.R. China
| | - Wenbin Liu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Provincial Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, P.R. China
| | - Weidong Jia
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Provincial Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, P.R. China
| | - Jinliang Ma
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Provincial Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, P.R. China
| | - Decheng Wei
- Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Beijing Children's Hospital Group, Hefei, Anhui 230051, P.R. China
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19
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Arias M, Hilchie AL, Haney EF, Bolscher JGM, Hyndman ME, Hancock REW, Vogel HJ. Anticancer activities of bovine and human lactoferricin-derived peptides. Biochem Cell Biol 2016; 95:91-98. [PMID: 28165293 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2016-0175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (LF) is a mammalian host defense glycoprotein with diverse biological activities. Peptides derived from the cationic region of LF possess cytotoxic activity against cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Bovine lactoferricin (LFcinB), a peptide derived from bovine LF (bLF), exhibits broad-spectrum anticancer activity, while a similar peptide derived from human LF (hLF) is not as active. In this work, several peptides derived from the N-terminal regions of bLF and hLF were studied for their anticancer activities against leukemia and breast-cancer cells, as well as normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The cyclized LFcinB-CLICK peptide, which possesses a stable triazole linkage, showed improved anticancer activity, while short peptides hLF11 and bLF10 were not cytotoxic to cancer cells. Interestingly, hLF11 can act as a cell-penetrating peptide; when combined with the antimicrobial core sequence of LFcinB (RRWQWR) through either a Pro or Gly-Gly linker, toxicity to Jurkat cells increased. Together, our work extends the library of LF-derived peptides tested for anticancer activity, and identified new chimeric peptides with high cytotoxicity towards cancerous cells. Additionally, these results support the notion that short cell-penetrating peptides and antimicrobial peptides can be combined to create new adducts with increased potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio Arias
- a Biochemistry Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Ashley L Hilchie
- b Centre for Microbial Diseases and Immunity Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada.,c Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Evan F Haney
- b Centre for Microbial Diseases and Immunity Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Jan G M Bolscher
- d Department of Oral Biochemistry, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and VU University of Amsterdam, 1081 AL Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M Eric Hyndman
- e Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Southern Alberta Institute of Urology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2V 1P9, Canada
| | - Robert E W Hancock
- b Centre for Microbial Diseases and Immunity Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Hans J Vogel
- a Biochemistry Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.,b Centre for Microbial Diseases and Immunity Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
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20
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Haug BE, Camilio KA, Eliassen LT, Stensen W, Svendsen JS, Berg K, Mortensen B, Serin G, Mirjolet JF, Bichat F, Rekdal Ø. Discovery of a 9-mer Cationic Peptide (LTX-315) as a Potential First in Class Oncolytic Peptide. J Med Chem 2016; 59:2918-27. [PMID: 26982623 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b02025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Oncolytic immunotherapies represent a new promising strategy in the treatment of cancer. In our efforts to develop oncolytic peptides, we identified a series of chemically modified 9-mer cationic peptides that were highly effective against both drug-resistant and drug-sensitive cancer cells and with lower toxicity toward normal cells. Among these peptides, LTX-315 displayed superior anticancer activity and was selected as a lead candidate. This peptide showed relative high plasma protein binding abilities and a human plasma half-life of 160 min, resulting in formation of nontoxic metabolites. In addition, the lead candidate demonstrated relatively low ability to inhibit CYP450 enzymes. Collectively these data indicated that this peptide has potential to be developed as a new anticancer agent for intratumoral administration and is currently being evaluated in a phase I/IIa study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bengt Erik Haug
- Lytix Biopharma AS , Sykehusveien 21, NO-9294 Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Chemistry and Centre for Pharmacy, University of Bergen , Allégaten 41, NO-5007 Bergen, Norway
| | - Ketil André Camilio
- Lytix Biopharma AS , Sykehusveien 21, NO-9294 Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | | | - Wenche Stensen
- Lytix Biopharma AS , Sykehusveien 21, NO-9294 Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Chemistry, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - John Sigurd Svendsen
- Lytix Biopharma AS , Sykehusveien 21, NO-9294 Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Chemistry, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Kristel Berg
- Lytix Biopharma AS , Sykehusveien 21, NO-9294 Tromsø, Norway
| | | | | | | | | | - Øystein Rekdal
- Lytix Biopharma AS , Sykehusveien 21, NO-9294 Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway
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21
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Liu BR, Huang YW, Aronstam RS, Lee HJ. Identification of a Short Cell-Penetrating Peptide from Bovine Lactoferricin for Intracellular Delivery of DNA in Human A549 Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150439. [PMID: 26942714 PMCID: PMC4778846 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been shown to deliver cargos, including protein, DNA, RNA, and nanomaterials, in fully active forms into live cells. Most of the CPP sequences in use today are based on non-native proteins that may be immunogenic. Here we demonstrate that the L5a CPP (RRWQW) from bovine lactoferricin (LFcin), stably and noncovalently complexed with plasmid DNA and prepared at an optimal nitrogen/phosphate ratio of 12, is able to efficiently enter into human lung cancer A549 cells. The L5a CPP delivered a plasmid containing the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) coding sequence that was subsequently expressed in cells, as revealed by real-time PCR and fluorescent microscopy at the mRNA and protein levels, respectively. Treatment with calcium chloride increased the level of gene expression, without affecting CPP-mediated transfection efficiency. Zeta-potential analysis revealed that positively electrostatic interactions of CPP/DNA complexes correlated with CPP-mediated transport. The L5a and L5a/DNA complexes were not cytotoxic. This biomimetic LFcin L5a represents one of the shortest effective CPPs and could be a promising lead peptide with less immunogenic for DNA delivery in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty R. Liu
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, 974, Taiwan
| | - Yue-Wern Huang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, Missouri, 65409–1120, United States of America
| | - Robert S. Aronstam
- College of Science and Technology, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, 17815–1301, United States of America
| | - Han-Jung Lee
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, 974, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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22
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A Tetrameric Peptide Derived from Bovine Lactoferricin Exhibits Specific Cytotoxic Effects against Oral Squamous-Cell Carcinoma Cell Lines. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:630179. [PMID: 26609531 PMCID: PMC4644816 DOI: 10.1155/2015/630179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Several short linear peptides derived from cyclic bovine lactoferricin were synthesized and tested for their cytotoxic effect against the oral cavity squamous-cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell lines CAL27 and SCC15. As a control, an immortalized and nontumorigenic cell line, Het-1A, was used. Linear peptides based on the RRWQWR core sequence showed a moderate cytotoxic effect and specificity towards tumorigenic cells. A tetrameric peptide, LfcinB(20–25)4, containing the RRWQWR motif, exhibited greater cytotoxic activity (>90%) in both OSCC cell lines compared to the linear lactoferricin peptide or the lactoferrin protein. Additionally, this tetrameric peptide showed the highest specificity towards tumorigenic cells among the tested peptides. Interestingly, this effect was very fast, with cell shrinkage, severe damage to cell membrane permeability, and lysis within one hour of treatment. Our results are consistent with a necrotic effect rather than an apoptotic one and suggest that this tetrameric peptide could be considered as a new candidate for the therapeutic treatment of OSCC.
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23
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Sheng M, Zhao Y, Zhang A, Wang L, Zhang G. The effect of LfcinB9 on human ovarian cancer cell SK-OV-3 is mediated by inducing apoptosis. J Pept Sci 2014; 20:803-10. [PMID: 24965354 DOI: 10.1002/psc.2670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Revised: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Minjia Sheng
- China Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130033, China
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