1
|
Zhang Z, Chen W, Sun M, Aalders T, Verhaegh GW, Kouwer PHJ. TempEasy 3D Hydrogel Coculture System Provides Mechanistic Insights into Prostate Cancer Bone Metastasis. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:25773-25787. [PMID: 38739686 PMCID: PMC11129143 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c03453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Patients diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer (PCa) often experience incurable bone metastases; however, a lack of relevant experimental models has hampered the study of disease mechanisms and the development of therapeutic strategies. In this study, we employed the recently established Temperature-based Easy-separable (TempEasy) 3D cell coculture system to investigate PCa bone metastasis. Through coculturing PCa and bone cells for 7 days, our results showed a reduction in PCa cell proliferation, an increase in neovascularization, and an enhanced metastasis potential when cocultured with bone cells. Additionally, we observed increased cell proliferation, higher stemness, and decreased bone matrix protein expression in bone cells when cocultured with PCa cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the stiffness of the extracellular matrix had a negligible impact on molecular responses in both primary (PCa cells) and distant malignant (bone cells) sites. The TempEasy 3D hydrogel coculture system is an easy-to-use and versatile coculture system that provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of cell-cell communication and interaction in cancer metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaobao Zhang
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
| | - Wen Chen
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
| | - Mingchen Sun
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
| | - Tilly Aalders
- Department
of Urology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28, Nijmegen 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Gerald W. Verhaegh
- Department
of Urology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28, Nijmegen 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gerrits L, Bakker B, Hendriks LD, Engels S, Hammink R, Kouwer PHJ. Tailoring of Physical Properties in Macroporous Poly(isocyanopeptide) Cryogels. Biomacromolecules 2024. [PMID: 38743442 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Over the years, synthetic hydrogels have proven remarkably useful as cell culture matrixes to elucidate the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) on cell behavior. Yet, their lack of interconnected macropores undermines the widespread use of hydrogels in biomedical applications. To overcome this limitation, cryogels, a class of macroporous hydrogels, are rapidly emerging. Here, we introduce a new, highly elastic, and tunable synthetic cryogel, based on poly(isocyanopeptides) (PIC). Introduction of methacrylate groups on PIC facilitated cryopolymerization through free-radical polymerization and afforded cryogels with an interconnected macroporous structure. We investigated which cryogelation parameters can be used to tune the architectural and mechanical properties of the PIC cryogels by systematically altering cryopolymerization temperature, polymer concentration, and polymer molecular weight. We show that for decreasing cryopolymerization temperatures, there is a correlation between cryogel pore size and stiffness. More importantly, we demonstrate that by simply varying the polymer concentration, we can selectively tune the compressive strength of PIC cryogels without affecting their architecture. This unique feature is highly useful for biomedical applications, as it facilitates decoupling of stiffness from other variables such as pore size. As such, PIC cryogels provide an interesting new biomaterial for scientists to unravel the role of the ECM in cellular functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Gerrits
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Institute for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen ,Netherlands
| | - Bram Bakker
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Institute for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen ,Netherlands
| | - Lynn D Hendriks
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Institute for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen ,Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Engels
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Institute for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen ,Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department of Medical BioSciences,Radboudumc, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Division of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen ,Netherlands
| | - Paul H J Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Institute for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen ,Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
López Ruiz A, Slaughter ED, Kloxin AM, Fromen CA. Bridging the gender gap in autoimmunity with T-cell-targeted biomaterials. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2024; 86:103075. [PMID: 38377884 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2024.103075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are caused by malfunctions of the immune system and generally impact women at twice the frequency of men. Many of the most serious autoimmune diseases are accompanied by a dysregulation of T-cell phenotype, both regarding the ratio of CD4+ to CD8+ T-cells and proinflammatory versus regulatory phenotypes. Biomaterials, in the form of particles and hydrogels, have shown promise in ameliorating this dysregulation both in vivo and ex vivo. In this review, we explore the role of T-cells in autoimmune diseases, particularly those with high incidence rates in women, and evaluate the promise and efficacy of innovative biomaterial-based approaches for targeting T-cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aida López Ruiz
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
| | - Eric D Slaughter
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
| | - April M Kloxin
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States; Material Science and Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States.
| | - Catherine A Fromen
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hou F, Guo Z, Ho MT, Hui Y, Zhao CX. Particle-Based Artificial Antigen-Presenting Cell Systems for T Cell Activation in Adoptive T Cell Therapy. ACS NANO 2024; 18:8571-8599. [PMID: 38483840 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c10180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
T cell-based adoptive cell therapy (ACT) has emerged as a promising treatment for various diseases, particularly cancers. Unlike other immunotherapy modalities, ACT involves directly transferring engineered T cells into patients to eradicate diseased cells; hence, it necessitates methods for effectively activating and expanding T cells in vitro. Artificial antigen-presenting cells (aAPCs) have been widely developed based on biomaterials, particularly micro- and nanoparticles, and functionalized with T cell stimulatory antibodies to closely mimic the natural T cell-APC interactions. Due to their vast clinical utility, aAPCs have been employed as an off-the-shelf technology for T cell activation in FDA-approved ACTs, and the development of aAPCs is constantly advancing with the emergence of aAPCs with more sophisticated designs and additional functionalities. Here, we review the recent advancements in particle-based aAPCs for T cell activation in ACTs. Following a brief introduction, we first describe the manufacturing processes of ACT products. Next, the design and synthetic strategies for micro- and nanoparticle-based aAPCs are discussed separately to emphasize their features, advantages, and limitations. Then, the impact of design parameters of aAPCs, such as size, shape, ligand density/mobility, and stiffness, on their functionality and biomedical performance is explored to provide deeper insights into the design concepts and principles for more efficient and safer aAPCs. The review concludes by discussing current challenges and proposing future perspectives for the development of more advanced aAPCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Hou
- School of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Zichao Guo
- School of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Minh Trang Ho
- School of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Yue Hui
- School of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Chun-Xia Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Weller S, Li X, Petersen LR, Kempen P, Clergeaud G, Andresen TL. Influence of different conjugation methods for activating antibodies on polymeric nanoparticles: Effects for polyclonal expansion of human CD8+ T cells. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 129:111643. [PMID: 38340420 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Particle-based systems have become a state-of-the-art method for in vitro expanding cytotoxic T cells by tailoring their surface with activating molecules. However, commonly used methods utilize facile carbodiimide chemistry leading to uncontrolled orientation of the immobilized antibodies on the particle surface that can lead to poor binding to target cells. To address this, selective coupling strategies utilizing regioselective chemical groups such as disulfide bridges offer a simple approach. In this work we present a set of methods to investigate the effect of polymeric nanoparticles, conjugated with either regioselective- or randomly-immobilized antiCD3 and antiCD28 antibodies, on the activation potential, expansion and expression of activation markers in T cells. We show that nanoparticles with well-oriented monovalent antibodies conjugated via maleimide require fewer ligands on the surface to efficiently expand T cells compared to bivalent antibodies randomly-immobilized via carbodiimide conjugation. Analysis of the T cell expression markers reveal that the T cell phenotype can be fine-tuned by adjusting the surface density of well-oriented antibodies, while randomly immobilized antibodies showed no differences despite their ligand density. Both conjugation techniques induced cytotoxic T cells, evidenced by analyzing their Granzyme B secretion. Furthermore, antibody orientation affects the immunological synapse and T cell activation by changing the calcium influx profile upon activation. Nanoparticles with well-oriented antibodies showed lower calcium influx compared to their bivalent randomly-immobilized counterparts. These results highlight the importance of controlling the antibody density and orientation on the nanoparticle surface via controlled coupling chemistries, helping to develop improved particle-based expansion protocols to enhance T cell therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sven Weller
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lars R Petersen
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Paul Kempen
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; DTU Nanolab, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Gael Clergeaud
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Thomas L Andresen
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cui H, Zhang L, Shi Y. Biomaterials-mediated ligation of immune cell surface receptors for immunoengineering. IMMUNO-ONCOLOGY TECHNOLOGY 2024; 21:100695. [PMID: 38405432 PMCID: PMC10891334 DOI: 10.1016/j.iotech.2023.100695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
A wide variety of cell surface receptors found on immune cells are essential to the body's immunological defense mechanisms. Cell surface receptors enable immune cells to sense extracellular stimuli and identify pathogens, transmitting activating or inhibitory signals that regulate the immune cell state and coordinate immunological responses. These receptors can dynamically aggregate or disperse due to the fluidity of the cell membrane, particularly during interactions between cells or between cells and pathogens. At the contact surface, cell surface receptors form microclusters, facilitating the recruitment and amplification of downstream signals. The strength of the immune signal is influenced by both the quantity and the specific types of participating receptors. Generally, receptor cross-linking, meaning multivalent ligation of receptors on one cell, leads to greater interface connectivity and more robust signaling. However, intercellular interactions are often spatially restricted by other cellular structures. Therefore, it is essential to comprehend these receptors' features for developing effective immunoengineering approaches. Biomaterials can stimulate and simulate interactions between immune cells and their targets. Biomaterials can activate immune cells to act against pathogenic organisms or cancer cells, thereby offering a valuable immunoengineering toolset for vaccination and immunotherapy. In this review, we systematically summarize biomaterial-based immunoengineering strategies that consider the biology of diverse immune cell surface receptors and the structural attributes of pathogens. By combining this knowledge, we aim to advance the development of rational and effective approaches for immune modulation and therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H. Cui
- Department of Polymer Therapeutics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - L. Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Y. Shi
- Department of Polymer Therapeutics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kumari J, Hammink R, Baaij J, Wagener FADTG, Kouwer PHJ. Antifibrotic properties of hyaluronic acid crosslinked polyisocyanide hydrogels. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 156:213705. [PMID: 38006784 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is characterized by the formation of fibrous connective tissue in response to primary injury. As a result, an affected organ may lose part of its functionality due to chronic, organ-specific tissue damage. Since fibrosis is a leading cause of death worldwide, targeting fibrotic diseases with antifibrotic hydrogels can be a lifesaving therapeutic strategy. This study developed a novel hybrid antifibrotic hydrogel by combining the synthetic polyisocyanide (PIC) with hyaluronic acid (HA). Gels of PIC are highly tailorable, thermosensitive, and strongly biomimetic in architecture and mechanical properties, whereas HA is known to promote non-fibrotic fetal wound healing and inhibits inflammatory signaling. The developed HA-PIC hybrids were biocompatible with physical properties comparable to those of the PIC gels. The antifibrotic nature of the gels was assessed by 3D cultures of human foreskin fibroblasts in the presence (or absence as control) of TGFβ1 that promotes differentiation into myofibroblasts, a critical step in fibrosis. Proliferation and macroscopic contraction assays and studies on the formation of stress fibers and characteristic fibrosis markers all indicate a strong antifibrotic nature of HA-PIC hydrogel. We showed that these effects originate from both the lightly crosslinked architecture and the presence of HA itself. The hybrid displaying both these effects shows the strongest antifibrotic nature and is a promising candidate for use as in vivo treatment for skin fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Kumari
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Dentistry - Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 EX Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Division of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Jochem Baaij
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Frank A D T G Wagener
- Department of Dentistry - Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 EX Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Paul H J Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mateus D, Sebastião AI, Frasco MF, Carrascal MA, Falcão A, Gomes CM, Neves B, Sales MGF, Cruz MT. Artificial Dendritic Cells: A New Era of Promising Antitumor Immunotherapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2303940. [PMID: 37469192 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202303940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
The accelerated development of antitumor immunotherapies in recent years has brought immunomodulation into the spotlight. These include immunotherapeutic treatments with dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines which can elicit tumor-specific immune responses and prolong survival. However, this personalized treatment has several drawbacks, including being costly, labor-intensive, and time consuming. This has sparked interest in producing artificial dendritic cells (aDCs) to open up the possibility of standardized "off-the-shelf" protocols and circumvent the cumbersome and expensive personalized medicine. aDCs take advantage of materials that can be designed and tailored for specific clinical applications. Here, an overview of the immunobiology underlying antigen presentation by DCs is provided in an attempt to select the key features to be mimicked and/or improved through the development of aDCs. The inherent properties of aDCs that greatly impact their performance in vivo and, consequently, the fate of the triggered immune response are also outlined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Mateus
- Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology-CNC, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-504, Portugal
- BioMark@UC/CEB - LABBELS Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3030-790, Portugal
| | - Ana I Sebastião
- Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology-CNC, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Manuela F Frasco
- BioMark@UC/CEB - LABBELS Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3030-790, Portugal
| | | | - Amílcar Falcão
- Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, CIBIT, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Célia M Gomes
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, iCBR, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovation in Biomedicine and Biotechnology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Bruno Neves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine, iBiMED, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Maria G F Sales
- BioMark@UC/CEB - LABBELS Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3030-790, Portugal
| | - Maria T Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology-CNC, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-504, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tvingsholm SA, Frej MS, Rafa VM, Hansen UK, Ormhøj M, Tyron A, Jensen AWP, Kadivar M, Bentzen AK, Munk KK, Aasbjerg GN, Ternander JSH, Heeke C, Tamhane T, Schmess C, Funt SA, Kjeldsen JW, Kverneland AH, Met Ö, Draghi A, Jakobsen SN, Donia M, Marie Svane I, Hadrup SR. TCR-engaging scaffolds selectively expand antigen-specific T-cells with a favorable phenotype for adoptive cell therapy. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e006847. [PMID: 37586765 PMCID: PMC10432666 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-006847] [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] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) has shown promising results for the treatment of cancer and viral infections. Successful ACT relies on ex vivo expansion of large numbers of desired T-cells with strong cytotoxic capacity and in vivo persistence, which constitutes the greatest challenge to current ACT strategies. Here, in this study, we present a novel technology for ex vivo expansion of antigen-specific T-cells; artificial antigen-presenting scaffolds (Ag-scaffolds) consisting of a dextran-polysaccharide backbone, decorated with combinations of peptide-Major Histocompatibility Complex (pMHC), cytokines and co-stimulatory molecules, enabling coordinated stimulation of antigen-specific T-cells. METHODS The capacity of Ag-scaffolds to expand antigen-specific T-cells was explored in ex vivo cultures with peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy donors and patients with metastatic melanoma. The resulting T-cell products were assessed for phenotypic and functional characteristics. RESULTS We identified an optimal Ag-scaffold for expansion of T-cells for ACT, carrying pMHC and interleukin-2 (IL-2) and IL-21, with which we efficiently expanded both virus-specific and tumor-specific CD8+ T cells from peripheral blood of healthy donors and patients, respectively. The resulting T-cell products were characterized by a high frequency of antigen-specific cells with high self-renewal capacity, low exhaustion, a multifunctional cytokine profile upon antigen-challenge and superior tumor killing capacity. This demonstrates that the coordinated stimuli provided by an optimized stoichiometry of TCR engaging (pMHC) and stimulatory (cytokine) moieties is essential to obtain desired T-cell characteristics. To generate an 'off-the-shelf' multitargeting Ag-scaffold product of relevance to patients with metastatic melanoma, we identified the 30 most frequently recognized shared HLA-A0201-restricted melanoma epitopes in a cohort of 87 patients. By combining these in an Ag-scaffold product, we were able to expand tumor-specific T-cells from 60-70% of patients with melanoma, yielding a multitargeted T-cell product with up to 25% specific and phenotypically and functionally improved T cells. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the Ag-scaffold represents a promising new technology for selective expansion of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells directly from blood, yielding a highly specific and functionally enhanced T-cell product for ACT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vibeke Mindahl Rafa
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Maria Ormhøj
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Alexander Tyron
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Agnete W P Jensen
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Mohammad Kadivar
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Amalie Kai Bentzen
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Kamilla K Munk
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Gitte N Aasbjerg
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Christina Heeke
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Tripti Tamhane
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Christian Schmess
- NMI Natural and Medical Science Institute, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Samuel A Funt
- Deptartment of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Julie Westerlin Kjeldsen
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Anders Handrup Kverneland
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Özcan Met
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Herlev Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Arianna Draghi
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Søren Nyboe Jakobsen
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Marco Donia
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Inge Marie Svane
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT-DK), Department of Oncology, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Sine Reker Hadrup
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ellis CE, Garcia-Hernandez JD, Manners I. Scalable and Uniform Length-Tunable Biodegradable Block Copolymer Nanofibers with a Polycarbonate Core via Living Polymerization-Induced Crystallization-Driven Self-assembly. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:20525-20538. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c09715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte E. Ellis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | | | - Ian Manners
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria BC V8P 5C2, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria V8P 5C2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wauters A, Scheerstra JF, Vermeijlen IG, Hammink R, Schluck M, Woythe L, Wu H, Albertazzi L, Figdor CG, Tel J, Abdelmohsen LKEA, van Hest JCM. Artificial Antigen-Presenting Cell Topology Dictates T Cell Activation. ACS NANO 2022; 16:15072-15085. [PMID: 35969506 PMCID: PMC9527792 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c06211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Nanosized artificial antigen-presenting cells (aAPCs), synthetic immune cell mimics that aim to activate T cells ex or in vivo, offer an effective alternative to cellular immunotherapies. However, comprehensive studies that delineate the effect of nano-aAPC topology, including nanoparticle morphology and ligand density, are lacking. Here, we systematically studied the topological effects of polymersome-based aAPCs on T cell activation. We employed an aAPC library created from biodegradable poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(d,l-lactide) (PEG-PDLLA) polymersomes with spherical or tubular shape and variable sizes, which were functionalized with αCD3 and αCD28 antibodies at controlled densities. Our results indicate that high ligand density leads to enhancement in T cell activation, which can be further augmented by employing polymersomes with larger size. At low ligand density, the effect of both polymersome shape and size was more pronounced, showing that large elongated polymersomes better activate T cells compared to their spherical or smaller counterparts. This study demonstrates the capacity of polymersomes as aAPCs and highlights the role of topology for their rational design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annelies
C. Wauters
- Bio-Organic
Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Division
of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud
University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jari F. Scheerstra
- Bio-Organic
Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Irma G. Vermeijlen
- Bio-Organic
Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Division
of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud
University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Schluck
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Division
of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud
University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Woythe
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems
(ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Hanglong Wu
- Bio-Organic
Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Albertazzi
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems
(ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona 08036, Spain
| | - Carl G. Figdor
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Division
of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud
University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jurjen Tel
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems
(ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Laboratory
of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Loai K. E. A. Abdelmohsen
- Bio-Organic
Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jan C. M. van Hest
- Bio-Organic
Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Le QV, Lee J, Byun J, Shim G, Oh YK. DNA-based artificial dendritic cells for in situ cytotoxic T cell stimulation and immunotherapy. Bioact Mater 2022; 15:160-172. [PMID: 35386353 PMCID: PMC8940766 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In immunotherapy, ex vivo stimulation of T cells requires significant resources and effort. Here, we report artificial dendritic cell-mimicking DNA microflowers (DM) for programming T cell stimulation in situ. To mimic dendritic cells, DNA-based artificial dendritic microflowers were constructed, surface-coated with polydopamine, and further modified with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies to yield antibody-modified DM (DM-A). The porous structure of DM-A allowed entrapment of the T cell-stimulating cytokine, ineterleukin-2, yielding interleukin-2-loaded DM-A (DM-AI). For comparison, polystyrene microparticles coated with polydopamine and modified with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies (PS-A) were used. Compared to PS-A, DM-AI showed significantly greater contact with T cell surfaces. DM-AI provided the highest ex vivo expansion of cytotoxic T cells. Local injection of DM-AI to tumor tissues induced the recruitment of T cells and expansion of cytotoxic T cells in tumor microenvironments. Unlike the other groups, model animals injected with DM-AI did not exhibit growth of primary tumors. Treatment of mice with DM-AI also protected against growth of a rechallenged distant tumor, and thus prevented tumor recurrence in this model. DM-AI has great potential for programmed stimulation of CD8+ T cells. This concept could be broadly extended for the programming of specific T cell stimulation profiles. Artificial dendritic cells were constructed by coating DNA microflowers with antibodies. DNA-based artificial dendritic cells activated T cell stronger than polymeric particles with smooth surfaces. Locally injected DNA-based artificial dendritic cells expanded cytotoxic T cells, modulating tumor immune microenvironments.
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang Z, Lv J, Huang H, Xu H, Zhang J, Xue C, Zhang S, Wu ZS. Structure-switchable aptamer-arranged reconfigurable DNA nanonetworks for targeted cancer therapy. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2022; 43:102553. [PMID: 35337985 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2022.102553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The structural DNA nanotechnology holds great potential application in bioimaging, drug delivery and cancer therapy. Herein, an intelligent aptamer-incorporated DNA nanonetwork (Apt-Nnes) is demonstrated for cancer cell imaging and targeted drug delivery, which essentially is a micron-scale pattern with the thickness of double-stranded monolayer. Cancer cell-surface receptors can make it perform magical transformation into small size of nanosheet intermediates and specifically enter target cells. The binding affinity of Apt-Nnes is increased by 3-fold due to multivalent binding effect of aptamers and it can maintain the structural integrity in fetal bovine serum (FBS) for 8 h. More interestingly, target cancer cells can cause the structural disassembly, and each resulting unit transports 4963 doxorubicin (Dox) into target cells, causing the specific cellular cytotoxicity. The cell surface receptor-mediated disassembly of large size of DNA nanostructures into small size of fractions provides a valuable insight into developing intelligent DNA nanostructure suitable for biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenmeng Wang
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, National & Local Joint Biomedical Engineering Research Center on Photodynamic Technologies, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Jinrui Lv
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, National & Local Joint Biomedical Engineering Research Center on Photodynamic Technologies, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, National & Local Joint Biomedical Engineering Research Center on Photodynamic Technologies, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Huo Xu
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, National & Local Joint Biomedical Engineering Research Center on Photodynamic Technologies, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, National & Local Joint Biomedical Engineering Research Center on Photodynamic Technologies, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Chang Xue
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, National & Local Joint Biomedical Engineering Research Center on Photodynamic Technologies, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China.
| | - Songbai Zhang
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, National & Local Joint Biomedical Engineering Research Center on Photodynamic Technologies, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Hunan University of Arts and Science, Changde, China.
| | - Zai-Sheng Wu
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, National & Local Joint Biomedical Engineering Research Center on Photodynamic Technologies, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Liu Z, Fu J, Yuan H, Ma B, Cao Z, Chen Y, Xing C, Niu X, Li N, Wang H, An H. Polyisocyanide hydrogels with tunable nonlinear elasticity mediate liver carcinoma cell functional response. Acta Biomater 2022; 148:152-162. [PMID: 35718101 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma development is closely related to the changes in tissue mechanics induced by excess collagen deposition and crosslinking, which leads to liver fibrosis and malignant progression. The role of matrix stiffness has been widely assessed using various linearly elastic materials. However, the liver, like many soft tissues, also exhibits nonlinear elasticity by strain-stiffening, allowing cells to mechanically interact with their micromilieus which has attracted much attention in cellular processes recently. Here, we use a biomimetic hydrogel grafting of GRGDS peptide with tunable nonlinear mechanical properties, polyisocyanides (PIC), to investigate the influence of strain-stiffening on HepG2 liver cancer cell behavior by tuning PIC polymer length. Compared to short PIC polymer with lower critical stress, PIC hydrogels composed of long polymer with higher critical stress promote the motility and invasiveness of HepG2 cells, and induce more actin stress fibers and higher expression level of mechanotransducer YAP and its nuclear translocation. Strikingly, the expression of calcium-activated potassium channel KCa3.1, an important biomarker in hepatocellular carcinoma, is also affected by the mechanical property of PIC hydrogels. It was also shown that downregulating the KCa3.1 channel can be achieved by inhibiting the formation of actin fibers. Our findings imply that the strain-stiffening property of PIC hydrogels affects the expression of KCa3.1 potassium channel via mediating cytoskeletal stress fiber formation, and ultimately influences the liver carcinoma cell functional response. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The effect of nonlinear elasticity by strain-stiffening, is assessed in HepG2 liver cancer cell behavior by using a biomimetic hydrogel with tunable mechanical properties, polyisocyanides (PIC). PIC gels with higher critical stress promote the motility and invasiveness of HepG2 cells and induce upregulated expression levels of KCa3.1 potassium channel and YAP, but which can be suppressed by inhibiting the formation of actin fibers. Our findings imply that the strain-stiffening property of PIC gels influences the expression of KCa3.1 potassium channel via mediating cytoskeletal stress fiber formation and, ultimately affects the liver carcinoma cell functional response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China
| | - Jingxuan Fu
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China; College of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, PR China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Hebei University of Technology, GuangRong Dao 8, Hongqiao District, Tianjin 300130, PR China
| | - Hongbo Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China; Molecular Imaging and Photonics, Chemistry Department, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium.
| | - Biao Ma
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China
| | - Zhanshuo Cao
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China
| | - Yafei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China
| | - Chengfen Xing
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China
| | - Xuezhi Niu
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China
| | - Ning Li
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China
| | - Hui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China; College of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, PR China.
| | - Hailong An
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, School of Science, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mandal S, Sunagawa SW, Prathipati PK, Belshan M, Shibata A, Destache CJ. Targeted Immuno-Antiretroviral to Promote Dual Protection against HIV: A Proof-of-Concept Study. NANOMATERIALS 2022; 12:nano12111942. [PMID: 35683795 PMCID: PMC9183115 DOI: 10.3390/nano12111942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The C-C motif chemokine receptor-5 (CCR5) expression on the T-cell surface is the prime barrier to HIV/AIDS eradication, as it promotes both active human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infection and latency; however, antiretrovirals (ARVs) suppress plasma viral loads to non-detectable levels. Keeping this in mind, we strategically designed a targeted ARVs-loaded nanoformulation that targets CCR5 expressing T-cells (e.g., CD4+ cells). Conceptually, CCR5-blocking and targeted ARV delivery would be a dual protection strategy to prevent HIV infection. For targeting CCR5+ T-cells, the nanoformulation was surface conjugated with anti-CCR5 monoclonal antibodies (CCR5 mAb) and loaded with dolutegravir+tenofovir alafenamide (D+T) ARVs to block HIV replication. The result demonstrated that the targeted-ARV nanoparticle’s multimeric CCR5 binding property improved its antigen-binding affinity, prolonged receptor binding, and ARV intracellular retention. Further, nanoformulation demonstrated high binding affinity to CCR5 expressing CD4+ cells, monocytes, and other CCR5+ T-cells. Finally, the short-term pre-exposure prophylaxis study demonstrated that prolonged CCR5 blockage and ARV presence further induced a “protective immune phenotype” with a boosted T-helper (Th), temporary memory (TM), and effector (E) sub-population. The proof-of-concept study that the targeted-ARV nanoformulation dual-action mechanism could provide a multifactorial solution toward achieving HIV “functional cure”.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subhra Mandal
- School of Pharmacy & Health Professions, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA; (S.W.S.); (P.K.P.); (C.J.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-402-472-5922
| | - Shawnalyn W. Sunagawa
- School of Pharmacy & Health Professions, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA; (S.W.S.); (P.K.P.); (C.J.D.)
| | - Pavan Kumar Prathipati
- School of Pharmacy & Health Professions, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA; (S.W.S.); (P.K.P.); (C.J.D.)
| | - Michael Belshan
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, Creighton University School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA;
| | - Annemarie Shibata
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA;
| | - Christopher J. Destache
- School of Pharmacy & Health Professions, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA; (S.W.S.); (P.K.P.); (C.J.D.)
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Le TMD, Yoon AR, Thambi T, Yun CO. Polymeric Systems for Cancer Immunotherapy: A Review. Front Immunol 2022; 13:826876. [PMID: 35273607 PMCID: PMC8902250 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.826876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy holds enormous promise to create a new outlook of cancer therapy by eliminating tumors via activation of the immune system. In immunotherapy, polymeric systems play a significant role in improving antitumor efficacy and safety profile. Polymeric systems possess many favorable properties, including magnificent biocompatibility and biodegradability, structural and component diversity, easy and controllable fabrication, and high loading capacity for immune-related substances. These properties allow polymeric systems to perform multiple functions in immunotherapy, such as immune stimulants, modifying and activating T cells, delivery system for immune cargos, or as an artificial antigen-presenting cell. Among diverse immunotherapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell, and oncolytic virus recently have been dramatically investigated for their remarkable success in clinical trials. In this report, we review the monotherapy status of immune checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cell, and oncolytic virus, and their current combination strategies with diverse polymeric systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thai Minh Duy Le
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanayang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - A-Rum Yoon
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanayang University, Seoul, South Korea.,Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Hanayang University, Seoul, South Korea.,Hanyang Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (HY-IBB), Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Thavasyappan Thambi
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanayang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chae-Ok Yun
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanayang University, Seoul, South Korea.,Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Hanayang University, Seoul, South Korea.,Hanyang Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (HY-IBB), Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea.,GeneMedicine CO., Ltd., Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhang Z, Chen W, Tiemessen DM, Oosterwijk E, Kouwer PHJ. A Temperature-Based Easy-Separable (TempEasy) 3D Hydrogel Coculture System. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2102389. [PMID: 35029325 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202102389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Interactions between different cell types are crucial for their behavior in tissues, but are rarely considered in 3D in vitro cell culture experiments. One reason is that such coculture experiments are sometimes difficult to perform in 3D or require specialized equipment or know-how. Here, a new 3D cell coculture system is introduced, TempEasy, which is readily applied in any cell culture lab. The matrix material is based on polyisocyanide hydrogels, which closely resemble the mechanical characteristics of the natural extracellular matrix. Gels with different gelation temperatures, seeded with different cells, are placed on top of each other to form an indirect coculture. Cooling reverses gelation, allowing cell harvesting from each layer separately, which benefits downstream analysis. To demonstrate the potential of TempEasy , human adipose stem cells (hADSCs) with vaginal epithelial fibroblasts are cocultured. The analysis of a 7-day coculture shows that hADSCs promote cell-cell interaction of fibroblasts, while fibroblasts promote proliferation and differentiation of hADSCs. TempEasy provides a straightforward operational platform for indirect cocultures of cells of different lineages in well-defined microenvironments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaobao Zhang
- Institute for Molecules and Materials Radboud University Nijmegen Heyendaalseweg 135 Nijmegen 6525 AJ The Netherlands
| | - Wen Chen
- Institute for Molecules and Materials Radboud University Nijmegen Heyendaalseweg 135 Nijmegen 6525 AJ The Netherlands
| | - Dorien M. Tiemessen
- Department of Urology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28 Nijmegen 6525 GA The Netherlands
| | - Egbert Oosterwijk
- Department of Urology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28 Nijmegen 6525 GA The Netherlands
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and Materials Radboud University Nijmegen Heyendaalseweg 135 Nijmegen 6525 AJ The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kristyanto H, Holborough-Kerkvliet MD, Lelieveldt L, Bartels Y, Hammink R, van Schie KAJ, Toes REM, Bonger KM, Scherer HU. Multifunctional, Multivalent PIC Polymer Scaffolds for Targeting Antigen-Specific, Autoreactive B Cells. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:1486-1493. [PMID: 35259296 PMCID: PMC9006213 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.1c01395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
![]()
Multivalent scaffolds
that carry multiple molecules with immunophenotyping
or immunomodulatory properties are invaluable tools for studying and
modulating specific functions of human immune responses. So far, streptavidin–biotin-based
tetramers have been widely used for B-cell immunophenotyping purposes.
However, the utility of these tetramers is limited by their tetravalency,
the inherent immunogenicity of streptavidin (a bacterial protein that
can potentially be recognized by B cells), and the limited feasibility
to functionalize these reagents. This has rendered tetramers suboptimal
for studying rare, in particular, antigen-specific B-cell populations
in the context of clinical applications. Here, we used polyisocyanopeptides
(PICs), multivalent polymeric scaffolds functionalized with around
50 peptide antigens, to detect autoreactive B cells in the peripheral
blood of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. To explore the potential
immunomodulatory functionalities, we functionalized PICs with autoantigenic
peptides and a trisaccharide CD22 ligand to inhibit autoreactive B-cell
activation through interference with the B-cell receptor activation
pathway, as evidenced by reduced phospho-Syk expression upon PIC binding.
Given the possibilities to functionalize PICs, our data demonstrate
that the modular and versatile character of PIC scaffolds makes them
promising candidates for future clinical applications in B-cell-mediated
diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hendy Kristyanto
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Lianne Lelieveldt
- Department of Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne Bartels
- Department of Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Division of Immunotherapy, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Karin A J van Schie
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Rene E M Toes
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kimberly M Bonger
- Department of Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Ulrich Scherer
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Liu K, Wiendels M, Yuan H, Ruan C, Kouwer PH. Cell-matrix reciprocity in 3D culture models with nonlinear elasticity. Bioact Mater 2022; 9:316-331. [PMID: 34820573 PMCID: PMC8586441 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) matrix models using hydrogels are powerful tools to understand and predict cell behavior. The interactions between the cell and its matrix, however is highly complex: the matrix has a profound effect on basic cell functions but simultaneously, cells are able to actively manipulate the matrix properties. This (mechano)reciprocity between cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) is central in regulating tissue functions and it is fundamentally important to broadly consider the biomechanical properties of the in vivo ECM when designing in vitro matrix models. This manuscript discusses two commonly used biopolymer networks, i.e. collagen and fibrin gels, and one synthetic polymer network, polyisocyanide gel (PIC), which all possess the characteristic nonlinear mechanics in the biological stress regime. We start from the structure of the materials, then address the uses, advantages, and limitations of each material, to provide a guideline for tissue engineers and biophysicists in utilizing current materials and also designing new materials for 3D cell culture purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaizheng Liu
- Research Center for Human Tissue and Organs Degeneration, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, PR China
- Radboud University, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Maury Wiendels
- Radboud University, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Hongbo Yuan
- Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300401, PR China
- Molecular Imaging and Photonics, Chemistry Department, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, 3001, Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Changshun Ruan
- Research Center for Human Tissue and Organs Degeneration, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, PR China
| | - Paul H.J. Kouwer
- Radboud University, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Schluck M, Eggermont LJ, Weiden J, Popelier C, Weiss L, Pilzecker B, Kolder S, Heinemans A, Rodriguez Mogeda C, Verdoes M, Figdor CG, Hammink R. Dictating Phenotype, Function, and Fate of Human T Cells with Co‐Stimulatory Antibodies Presented by Filamentous Immune Cell Mimics. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202200019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein Schluck
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Loek J. Eggermont
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Jorieke Weiden
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Carlijn Popelier
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Lea Weiss
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Bas Pilzecker
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Sigrid Kolder
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Anne Heinemans
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Carla Rodriguez Mogeda
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Martijn Verdoes
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Carl G. Figdor
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department of Tumor Immunology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein 26 Nijmegen GA 6525 The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Sahoo A, Mukherjee D, Mahata D, Mukherjee G. Peptide–MHC complexes: dressing up to manipulate T cells against autoimmunity and cancer. Immunotherapy 2022; 14:337-350. [PMID: 35152723 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2021-0230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Antigen-specificity of T cells provides important clues to the pathogenesis of T cell-mediated autoimmune diseases and immune-evasion strategies of tumors. Identification of T cell clones involved in autoimmunity or cancer is achieved with soluble peptide–MHC (pMHC) complex multimers. Importantly, these complexes can also be used to manipulate disease-relevant T cells to restore homeostasis of T cell-mediated immune response. While auto-antigen-specific T cells can be deleted or anergized by T cell receptor engagement with cognate pMHC complexes in the absence of costimulation, integration of these complexes in artificial antigen-presenting systems can activate tumor antigen-specific T cells. Here the authors discuss the advancements in pMHC-complex-mediated immunotherapeutic strategies in autoimmunity and cancer and identify the lacunae in these strategies that need to be addressed to facilitate clinical implementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arpita Sahoo
- School of Medical Science & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| | - Debangshu Mukherjee
- School of Medical Science & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| | - Dhrubajyoti Mahata
- School of Medical Science & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
- School of Bioscience, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| | - Gayatri Mukherjee
- School of Medical Science & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Paus C, van der Voort R, Cambi A. Nanomedicine in cancer therapy: promises and hurdles of polymeric nanoparticles. EXPLORATION OF MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.37349/emed.2021.00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The limitations of current cancer treatments have stimulated the application of nanotechnology to develop more effective and safer cancer therapies. Remarkable progress has been made in the development of nanomedicine to overcome issues associated with conventional cancer treatment, including low drug solubility, insufficient targeting, and drug resistance. The modulation of nanoparticles allows the improvement of drug pharmacokinetics, leading to improved targeting and reduced side effects. In addition, nanoparticles can be conjugated to ligands that specifically target cancer cells. Furthermore, strategies that exploit tumor characteristics to locally trigger drug release have shown to increase targeted drug delivery. However, although some clinical successes have been achieved, most nanomedicines fail to reach the clinic. Factors that hinder clinical translation vary from the complexity of design, incomplete understanding of biological mechanisms, and high demands during the manufacturing process. Clinical translation might be improved by combining knowledge from different disciplines such as cell biology, chemistry, and tumor pathophysiology. An increased understanding on how nanoparticle modifications affect biological systems is pivotal to improve design, eventually aiding development of more effective nanomedicines. This review summarizes the key successes that have been made in nanomedicine, including improved drug delivery and release by polymeric nanoparticles as well as the introduction of strategies that overcome drug resistance. In addition, the application of nanomedicine in immunotherapy is discussed, and several remaining challenges addressed.
Collapse
|
23
|
Hammink R, Weiden J, Voerman D, Popelier C, Eggermont LJ, Schluck M, Figdor CG, Verdoes M. Semiflexible Immunobrushes Induce Enhanced T Cell Activation and Expansion. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:16007-16018. [PMID: 33797875 PMCID: PMC8045021 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c21994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
A variety of bioactive materials developed to expand T cells for adoptive transfer into cancer patients are currently evaluated in the clinic. In most cases, T cell activating biomolecules are attached to rigid surfaces or matrices and form a static interface between materials and the signaling receptors on the T cells. We hypothesized that a T cell activating polymer brush interface might better mimic the cell surface of a natural antigen-presenting cell, facilitating receptor movement and concomitant advantageous mechanical forces to provide enhanced T cell activating capacities. Here, as a proof of concept, we synthesized semiflexible polyisocyanopeptide (PIC) polymer-based immunobrushes equipped with T cell activating agonistic anti-CD3 (αCD3) and αCD28 antibodies placed on magnetic microbeads. We demonstrated enhanced efficiency of ex vivo expansion of activated primary human T cells even at very low numbers of stimulating antibodies compared to rigid beads. Importantly, the immunobrush architecture appeared crucial for this improved T cell activating capacity. Immunobrushes outperform current benchmarks by producing higher numbers of T cells exhibiting a combination of beneficial phenotypic characteristics, such as reduced exhaustion marker expression, high cytokine production, and robust expression of cytotoxic hallmarks. This study indicates that semiflexible immunobrushes have great potential in making T cell-based immunotherapies more effective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roel Hammink
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Division
of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud
University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jorieke Weiden
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Division
of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud
University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Institute
for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Dion Voerman
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Institute
for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Carlijn Popelier
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Loek J. Eggermont
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Institute
for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Schluck
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Division
of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud
University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Institute
for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Carl G. Figdor
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Division
of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud
University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Institute
for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Martijn Verdoes
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Institute
for Chemical Immunology, 6525 GA Nijmegen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zhang Z, Tang C, Hammink R, Nelissen FHT, Heus HA, Kouwer PHJ. Multivalent Sgc8c-aptamer decorated polymer scaffolds for leukemia targeting. Chem Commun (Camb) 2021; 57:2744-2747. [PMID: 33595548 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc08205h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia causes a disproportional amount of immature white blood cells in the patients' bone marrow. The significant undesired side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy treatment prompted us to study a more effective treatment strategy. We decorated polyisocyanopeptide scaffolds with the selective leukemia cell binding aptamer sgc8c and found that the polymers inhibit proliferation by G0/G1-phase arrest, serving as an opportunity for future therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaobao Zhang
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Zhang Y, Zegers MMP, Nagelkerke A, Rowan AE, Span PN, Kouwer PHJ. Tunable Hybrid Matrices Drive Epithelial Morphogenesis and YAP Translocation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2003380. [PMID: 33511022 PMCID: PMC7816720 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202003380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Morphogenesis is a tightly-regulated developmental process by which tissues acquire the morphology that is critical to their function. For example, epithelial cells exhibit different 2D and 3D morphologies, induced by distinct biochemical and biophysical cues from their environment. In this work, novel hybrid matrices composed of a Matrigel and synthetic oligo(ethylene glycol)-grafted polyisocyanides (PICs) hydrogels are used to form a highly tailorable environment. Through precise control of the stiffness and cell-matrix interactions, while keeping other properties constant, a broad range of morphologies induced in Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells is observed. At relatively low matrix stiffness, a large morphological shift from round hollow cysts to 2D monolayers is observed, without concomitant translocation of the mechanotransduction protein Yes-associated protein (YAP). At higher stiffness levels and enhanced cell-matrix interactions, tuned by controlling the adhesive peptide density on PIC, the hybrid hydrogels induce a flattened cell morphology with simultaneous YAP translocation, suggesting activation. In 3D cultures, the latter matrices lead to the formation of tubular structures. Thus, mixed synthetic and natural gels, such as the hybrids presented here, are ideal platforms to dissect how external physical factors can be used to regulate morphogenesis in MDCK model system, and in the future, in more complex environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Institute for Molecules and MaterialsRadboud UniversityHeyendaalseweg 135Nijmegen6525 AJThe Netherlands
- Radiotherapy and OncoImmunology Laboratory, Department of Radiation OncologyRadboud University Medical CenterGeert Grooteplein 32Nijmegen6525 GAThe Netherlands
| | - Mirjam M. P. Zegers
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterGeert Grooteplein 28Nijmegen6525 GAThe Netherlands
| | - Anika Nagelkerke
- Radiotherapy and OncoImmunology Laboratory, Department of Radiation OncologyRadboud University Medical CenterGeert Grooteplein 32Nijmegen6525 GAThe Netherlands
- Present address:
Pharmaceutical Analysis, Groningen Research Institute of PharmacyUniversity of GroningenP.O. Box 196, XB20Groningen9700 ADThe Netherlands
| | - Alan E. Rowan
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN)The University of QueenslandBrisbaneQLD4072Australia
| | - Paul N. Span
- Radiotherapy and OncoImmunology Laboratory, Department of Radiation OncologyRadboud University Medical CenterGeert Grooteplein 32Nijmegen6525 GAThe Netherlands
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and MaterialsRadboud UniversityHeyendaalseweg 135Nijmegen6525 AJThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Gerrits L, Hammink R, Kouwer PHJ. Semiflexible polymer scaffolds: an overview of conjugation strategies. Polym Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1039/d0py01662d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Semiflexible polymers are excellent scaffolds for the presentation of a wide variety of (bio)molecules. This manuscript reviews advantages and challenges of the most common conjugation strategies for the major classes of semiflexible polymers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Gerrits
- Institute for Molecules and Materials
- Radboud University
- 6525 AJ Nijmegen
- The Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department of Tumor Immunology
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences
- Radboud University Medical Center
- 6525 GA Nijmegen
- The Netherlands
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and Materials
- Radboud University
- 6525 AJ Nijmegen
- The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Liu K, Veenendaal T, Wiendels M, Ruiz-Zapata AM, van Laar J, Kyranas R, Enting H, van Cranenbroek B, Koenen HJPM, Mihaila SM, Oosterwijk E, Kouwer PHJ. Synthetic Extracellular Matrices as a Toolbox to Tune Stem Cell Secretome. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:56723-56730. [PMID: 33305561 PMCID: PMC7760093 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c16208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The application of stem cell-derived secretome in regenerative therapies offers the key advantage that instead of the stem cells, only their effective paracrine compounds are in vivo delivered. Ideally, the secretome can be steered by the culture conditions of the stem cells. So far, most studies use stem cells cultured on stiff plastic substrates, not representative of their native 3D environment. In this study, cells are cultured inside synthetic polyisocyanide (PIC)-based hydrogels, which are minimal, tailorable, and highly reproducible biomimetic matrices. Secretome analysis of human adipose-derived stem cells (multiplex, ELISA) displays that matrix manipulation is a powerful tool to direct the secretome composition. As an example, cells in nonadherent PIC gels secrete increased levels of IL-10 and the conditioned media from 3D culture accelerate wound closure. In all, our PIC-based approach opens the door to dedicated matrix design to engineer the secretome for custom applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaizheng Liu
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Tomas Veenendaal
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Maury Wiendels
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alejandra M. Ruiz-Zapata
- Radboud
Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and
Gynecology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Justin van Laar
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rafail Kyranas
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hilde Enting
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bram van Cranenbroek
- Lab
Medical Immunology, Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans J. P. M. Koenen
- Lab
Medical Immunology, Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Silvia M. Mihaila
- Utrecht
Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht University, 3854 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Egbert Oosterwijk
- Radboud
Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Department of Urology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein 26-28, P.O.
Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Cancer Immunotherapy and Application of Nanoparticles in Cancers Immunotherapy as the Delivery of Immunotherapeutic Agents and as the Immunomodulators. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123773. [PMID: 33333816 PMCID: PMC7765190 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer becomes one of the major public health problems globally and the burden is expected to be increasing. Currently, both the medical and research communities have attempted an approach to nonconventional cancer therapies that can limit damage or loss of healthy tissues and be able to fully eradicate the cancer cells. In the last few decades, cancer immunotherapy becomes an important tactic for cancer treatment. Immunotherapy of cancer must activate the host’s anti-tumor response by enhancing the innate immune system and the effector cell number, while, minimizing the host’s suppressor mechanisms. However, many immunotherapies are still limited by poor therapeutic targeting and unwanted side effects. Hence, a deeper understanding of tumor immunology and antitumor immune responses is essential for further improvement of cancer immunotherapy. In addition, effective delivery systems are required to deliver immunotherapeutic agents to the site of interest (such as: to Tumor microenvironments, to Antigen-Presenting Cells, and to the other immune systems) to enhance their efficacy by minimizing off-targeted and unwanted cytotoxicity. Abstract In the last few decades, cancer immunotherapy becomes an important tactic for cancer treatment. However, some immunotherapy shows certain limitations including poor therapeutic targeting and unwanted side effects that hinder its use in clinics. Recently, several researchers are exploring an alternative methodology to overcome the above limitations. One of the emerging tracks in this field area is nano-immunotherapy which has gone through rapid progress and revealed considerable potentials to solve limitations related to immunotherapy. Targeted and stimuli-sensitive biocompatible nanoparticles (NPs) can be synthesized to deliver immunotherapeutic agents in their native conformations to the site of interest to enhance their antitumor activity and to enhance the survival rate of cancer patients. In this review, we have discussed cancer immunotherapy and the application of NPs in cancer immunotherapy, as a carrier of immunotherapeutic agents and as a direct immunomodulator.
Collapse
|
29
|
Ye S, Boeter JWB, Mihajlovic M, van Steenbeek FG, van Wolferen ME, Oosterhoff LA, Marsee A, Caiazzo M, van der Laan LJW, Penning LC, Vermonden T, Spee B, Schneeberger K. A Chemically Defined Hydrogel for Human Liver Organoid Culture. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2020; 30:2000893. [PMID: 34658689 PMCID: PMC7611838 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202000893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
End-stage liver diseases are an increasing health burden, and liver transplantations are currently the only curative treatment option. Due to a lack of donor livers, alternative treatments are urgently needed. Human liver organoids are very promising for regenerative medicine; however, organoids are currently cultured in Matrigel, which is extracted from the extracellular matrix of the Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm mouse sarcoma. Matrigel is poorly defined, suffers from high batch-to-batch variability and is of xenogeneic origin, which limits the clinical application of organoids. Here, a novel hydrogel based on polyisocyanopeptides (PIC) and laminin-111 is described for human liver organoid cultures. PIC is a synthetic polymer that can form a hydrogel with thermosensitive properties, making it easy to handle and very attractive for clinical applications. Organoids in an optimized PIC hydrogel proliferate at rates comparable to those observed with Matrigel; proliferation rates are stiffness-dependent, with lower stiffnesses being optimal for organoid proliferation. Moreover, organoids can be efficiently differentiated toward a hepatocyte-like phenotype with key liver functions. This proliferation and differentiation potential maintain over at least 14 passages. The results indicate that PIC is very promising for human liver organoid culture and has the potential to be used in a variety of clinical applications including cell therapy and tissue engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shicheng Ye
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Jochem W B Boeter
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Marko Mihajlovic
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science Utrecht University Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht 3584 CG, The Netherlands; Department of Biomedical Engineering Eindhoven University of Technology Postbus 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Frank G van Steenbeek
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Monique E van Wolferen
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Loes A Oosterhoff
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Ary Marsee
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Massimiliano Caiazzo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science Utrecht University Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht 3584 CG, The Netherlands; Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology University of Naples 'Federico II' Via Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Luc J W van der Laan
- Department of Surgery Erasmus MC-University Medical Center Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Louis C Penning
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Tina Vermonden
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science Utrecht University Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht 3584 CG, The Netherlands
| | - Bart Spee
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Kerstin Schneeberger
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Nasirmoghadas P, Mousakhani A, Behzad F, Beheshtkhoo N, Hassanzadeh A, Nikoo M, Mehrabi M, Kouhbanani MAJ. Nanoparticles in cancer immunotherapies: An innovative strategy. Biotechnol Prog 2020; 37:e3070. [PMID: 32829506 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.3070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cancer has been one of the most significant causes of mortality, worldwide. Cancer immunotherapy has recently emerged as a competent, cancer-fighting clinical strategy. Nevertheless, due to the difficulty of such treatments, costs, and off-target adverse effects, the implementation of cancer immunotherapy described by the antigen-presenting cell (APC) vaccine and chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy ex vivo in large clinical trials have been limited. Nowadays, the nanoparticles theranostic system as a promising target-based modality provides new opportunities to improve cancer immunotherapy difficulties and reduce their adverse effects. Meanwhile, the appropriate engineering of nanoparticles taking into consideration nanoparticle characteristics, such as, size, shape, and surface features, as well as the use of these physicochemical properties for suitable biological interactions, provides new possibilities for the application of nanoparticles in cancer immunotherapy. In this review article, we focus on the latest state-of-the-art nanoparticle-based antigen/adjuvant delivery vehicle strategies to professional APCs and engineering specific T lymphocyte required for improving the efficiency of tumor-specific immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pourya Nasirmoghadas
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akbar Mousakhani
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farahnaz Behzad
- Research Institute for Fundamental Sciences (RIFS), University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nasrin Beheshtkhoo
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Hassanzadeh
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marzieh Nikoo
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.,Helal Iran Pharmaceutical and Clinical Complex, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Mehrabi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Jadidi Kouhbanani
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Cardle II, Cheng EL, Jensen MC, Pun SH. Biomaterials in Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Process Development. Acc Chem Res 2020; 53:1724-1738. [PMID: 32786336 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.0c00335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has transformed the cancer treatment landscape, utilizing ex vivo modified autologous T cells to treat relapsed or refractory B-cell leukemias and lymphomas. However, the therapy's broader impact has been limited, in part, by a complicated, lengthy, and expensive production process. Accordingly, as CAR T-cell therapies are further advanced to treat other cancers, continual innovation in cell manufacturing will be critical to their successful clinical implementation. In this Account, we describe our research efforts using biomaterials to improve the three fundamental steps in CAR T-cell manufacturing: (1) isolation, (2) activation, and (3) genetic modification.Recognizing that clinical T-cell isolation reagents have high cost and supply constraints, we developed a synthetic DNA aptamer and complementary reversal agent technology that isolates label-free CD8+ T cells with high purity and yield from peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Encouragingly, CAR T cells manufactured from both antibody- and aptamer-isolated T cells were comparable in therapeutic potency. Discovery and design of other T-cell specific aptamers and corresponding reversal reagents could fully realize the potential of this approach, enabling inexpensive isolation of multiple distinct T-cell populations in a single isolation step.Current ex vivo T-cell activation materials do not accurately mimic in situ T-cell activation by antigen presenting cells (APCs). They cause unequal CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell expansion, necessitating separate production of CD4+ and CD8+ CAR T cells for therapies that call for balanced infusion compositions. To address these shortcomings, we designed a panel of biodegradable cell-templated silica microparticles with supported lipid bilayers that display stimulatory ligands for T-cell activation. High membrane fluidity, elongated shape, and rough surface topography, all properties of endogenous APCs, were found to be favorable parameters for activation, promoting unbiased and efficient CD4/CD8 T-cell expansion while not terminally differentiating the cells.Viral and electroporation-based gene delivery systems have various drawbacks. Viral vectors are expensive and have limited cargo sizes, whereas electroporation is highly cytotoxic. Thus, low-cost nonviral platforms that transfect T cells with low cytotoxicity and high efficiency are needed for CAR gene delivery. Our group thus synthesized a panel of cationic polymers with different architectures and evaluated their T-cell transfection ability. We identified a comb-shaped polymer formulation that transfected primary T cells with low cytotoxicity, although transfection efficiency was low compared to conventional methods. Analysis of intracellular and extracellular barriers to transfection revealed low uptake of polyplexes and high endosomal pH in T cells, alluding to biological and polymer properties that could be further improved.These innovations represent just a few recent developments in the biomaterials field for addressing CAR T-cell production needs. Together, these technologies and their future advancement will pave the way for economical and straightforward CAR T-cell manufacturing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian I. Cardle
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-5061, United States
- Research and Development, Seattle Children’s Therapeutics, Seattle, Washington 98101, United States
| | - Emmeline L. Cheng
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-5061, United States
| | - Michael C. Jensen
- Research and Development, Seattle Children’s Therapeutics, Seattle, Washington 98101, United States
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
- Program in Immunology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98109, United States
| | - Suzie H. Pun
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-5061, United States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Grad EM, Tunn I, Voerman D, de Léon AS, Hammink R, Blank KG. Influence of Network Topology on the Viscoelastic Properties of Dynamically Crosslinked Hydrogels. Front Chem 2020; 8:536. [PMID: 32719773 PMCID: PMC7349520 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.00536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Biological materials combine stress relaxation and self-healing with non-linear stress-strain responses. These characteristic features are a direct result of hierarchical self-assembly, which often results in fiber-like architectures. Even though structural knowledge is rapidly increasing, it has remained a challenge to establish relationships between microscopic and macroscopic structure and function. Here, we focus on understanding how network topology determines the viscoelastic properties, i.e., stress relaxation, of biomimetic hydrogels. We have dynamically crosslinked two different synthetic polymers with one and the same crosslink. The first polymer, a polyisocyanopeptide (PIC), self-assembles into semi-flexible, fiber-like bundles, and thus displays stress-stiffening, similar to many biopolymer networks. The second polymer, 4-arm poly(ethylene glycol) (starPEG), serves as a reference network with well-characterized structural and viscoelastic properties. Using one and the same coiled coil crosslink allows us to decouple the effects of crosslink kinetics and network topology on the stress relaxation behavior of the resulting hydrogel networks. We show that the fiber-containing PIC network displays a relaxation time approximately two orders of magnitude slower than the starPEG network. This reveals that crosslink kinetics is not the only determinant for stress relaxation. Instead, we propose that the different network topologies determine the ability of elastically active network chains to relax stress. In the starPEG network, each elastically active chain contains exactly one crosslink. In the absence of entanglements, crosslink dissociation thus relaxes the entire chain. In contrast, each polymer is crosslinked to the fiber bundle in multiple positions in the PIC hydrogel. The dissociation of a single crosslink is thus not sufficient for chain relaxation. This suggests that tuning the number of crosslinks per elastically active chain in combination with crosslink kinetics is a powerful design principle for tuning stress relaxation in polymeric materials. The presence of a higher number of crosslinks per elastically active chain thus yields materials with a slow macroscopic relaxation time but fast dynamics at the microscopic level. Using this principle for the design of synthetic cell culture matrices will yield materials with excellent long-term stability combined with the ability to locally reorganize, thus facilitating cell motility, spreading, and growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilia M. Grad
- Mechano(bio) Chemistry, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
- Department of Molecular Materials, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Isabell Tunn
- Mechano(bio) Chemistry, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Dion Voerman
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Division of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Alberto S. de Léon
- Mechano(bio) Chemistry, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Division of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Kerstin G. Blank
- Mechano(bio) Chemistry, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
- Department of Molecular Materials, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Cui Q, Yuan H, Bao X, Ma G, Wu M, Xing C. Synergistic Photodynamic and Photothermal Antibacterial Therapy Based on a Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticle-Doped Hydrogel. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2020; 3:4436-4443. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c00423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Qifan Cui
- School of Chemical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
| | - Hongbo Yuan
- Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
| | - Xueying Bao
- Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
| | - Gang Ma
- School of Chemical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
| | - Manman Wu
- Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
| | - Chengfen Xing
- Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Shields CW, Wang LLW, Evans MA, Mitragotri S. Materials for Immunotherapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e1901633. [PMID: 31250498 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201901633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Breakthroughs in materials engineering have accelerated the progress of immunotherapy in preclinical studies. The interplay of chemistry and materials has resulted in improved loading, targeting, and release of immunomodulatory agents. An overview of the materials that are used to enable or improve the success of immunotherapies in preclinical studies is presented, from immunosuppressive to proinflammatory strategies, with particular emphasis on technologies poised for clinical translation. The materials are organized based on their characteristic length scale, whereby the enabling feature of each technology is organized by the structure of that material. For example, the mechanisms by which i) nanoscale materials can improve targeting and infiltration of immunomodulatory payloads into tissues and cells, ii) microscale materials can facilitate cell-mediated transport and serve as artificial antigen-presenting cells, and iii) macroscale materials can form the basis of artificial microenvironments to promote cell infiltration and reprogramming are discussed. As a step toward establishing a set of design rules for future immunotherapies, materials that intrinsically activate or suppress the immune system are reviewed. Finally, a brief outlook on the trajectory of these systems and how they may be improved to address unsolved challenges in cancer, infectious diseases, and autoimmunity is presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Wyatt Shields
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Lily Li-Wen Wang
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Michael A Evans
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Samir Mitragotri
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Briquez PS, Hauert S, de Titta A, Gray LT, Alpar AT, Swartz MA, Hubbell JA. Engineering Targeting Materials for Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:19. [PMID: 32117911 PMCID: PMC7026271 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic cancer vaccines constitute a valuable tool to educate the immune system to fight tumors and prevent cancer relapse. Nevertheless, the number of cancer vaccines in the clinic remains very limited to date, highlighting the need for further technology development. Recently, cancer vaccines have been improved by the use of materials, which can strongly enhance their intrinsic properties and biodistribution profile. Moreover, vaccine efficacy and safety can be substantially modulated through selection of the site at which they are delivered, which fosters the engineering of materials capable of targeting cancer vaccines to specific relevant sites, such as within the tumor or within lymphoid organs, to further optimize their immunotherapeutic effects. In this review, we aim to give the reader an overview of principles and current strategies to engineer therapeutic cancer vaccines, with a particular focus on the use of site-specific targeting materials. We will first recall the goal of therapeutic cancer vaccination and the type of immune responses sought upon vaccination, before detailing key components of cancer vaccines. We will then present how materials can be engineered to enhance the vaccine's pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Finally, we will discuss the rationale for site-specific targeting of cancer vaccines and provide examples of current targeting technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla S. Briquez
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Sylvie Hauert
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | | | - Laura T. Gray
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Aaron T. Alpar
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Melody A. Swartz
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Ben May Department of Cancer Research, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Committee on Immunology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Jeffrey A. Hubbell
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Committee on Immunology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Yuan H, Zhan Y, Rowan AE, Xing C, Kouwer PHJ. Biomimetic Networks with Enhanced Photodynamic Antimicrobial Activity from Conjugated Polythiophene/Polyisocyanide Hybrid Hydrogels. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201910979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hongbo Yuan
- Institute of BiophysicsHebei University of Technology Tianjin 300401 P. R. China
| | - Yong Zhan
- Institute of BiophysicsHebei University of Technology Tianjin 300401 P. R. China
| | - Alan E. Rowan
- Institute for Molecules and MaterialsRadboud University Heyendaalseweg 135 6525 AJ Nijmegen The Netherlands
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and NanotechnologyThe University of Queensland Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Chengfen Xing
- Institute of BiophysicsHebei University of Technology Tianjin 300401 P. R. China
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and MaterialsRadboud University Heyendaalseweg 135 6525 AJ Nijmegen The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Yuan H, Zhan Y, Rowan AE, Xing C, Kouwer PHJ. Biomimetic Networks with Enhanced Photodynamic Antimicrobial Activity from Conjugated Polythiophene/Polyisocyanide Hybrid Hydrogels. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:2720-2724. [PMID: 31917502 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201910979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Hybrid biomimetic hydrogels with enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS)-generation efficiency under 600 nm light show high antibacterial activity. The hybrid gels are composed of helical tri(ethylene glycol)-functionalized polyisocyanides (PICs) and a conformation-sensitive conjugated polythiophene, poly(3-(3'-N,N,N-triethylammonium-1'-propyloxy)-4-methyl-2,5-thiophene chloride) (PMNT). The PIC polymer serves as a scaffold to trap and align the PMNT backbone into a highly ordered conformation, resulting in redshifted, new sharp bands in the absorption and fluorescence spectra. Similar to PIC, the hybrid closely mimics the mechanical properties of biological gels, such as collagen and fibrin, including the strain stiffening properties at low stresses. Moreover, the PMNT/PIC hybrids show much higher ROS production efficiency under red light than PMNT only, leading to an efficient photodynamic antimicrobial effect towards various pathogenic bacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongbo Yuan
- Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300401, P. R. China
| | - Yong Zhan
- Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300401, P. R. China
| | - Alan E Rowan
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Chengfen Xing
- Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300401, P. R. China
| | - Paul H J Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Op 't Veld RC, Eerden M, Wagener FADTG, Kouwer PHJ, Jansen JA, Walboomers XF. Polyisocyanopeptide Hydrogels Are Effectively Sterilized Using Supercritical Carbon Dioxide. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2019; 26:132-141. [PMID: 31847754 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2019.0305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Adequate sterilization procedures for soft biomaterials such as hydrogels are known to be challenging. These materials are delicate in structure, making them sensitive to harsh conditions and prone to damage. In this study, a suitable sterilization method for hydrogels composed of tri(ethylene glycol)-functionalized polyisocyanopeptides (PIC) was explored. These high biomimetic hydrogels are temperature and strain sensitive and have been presented as novel cell culturing matrices, wound dressings, and drug carriers. The methods that were investigated include autoclaving, γ-irradiation, ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation, and supercritical CO2 (scCO2) treatment. The results show that autoclaving and γ-irradiation have deleterious effects on the gelation behavior and mechanical characteristics of PIC. For γ-irradiation, cooling the gels on dry ice alleviated this negative impact, but not sufficiently enough to make the method viable. In contrast, UV light and scCO2 treatment do not affect the mechanical properties of the PIC gels. Studies with gels inoculated with 107 CFU/mL Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus show that only scCO2 is capable of successfully sterilizing PIC hydrogels by achieving a 6-log reduction in bacterial load. It was concluded that, within the range of tested techniques, the sterilization of PIC is limited to scCO2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roel C Op 't Veld
- Department of Dentistry-Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Dentistry-Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Frank A D T G Wagener
- Department of Dentistry-Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H J Kouwer
- Department of Molecular Materials, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - John A Jansen
- Department of Dentistry-Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - X Frank Walboomers
- Department of Dentistry-Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Dunn ZS, Mac J, Wang P. T cell immunotherapy enhanced by designer biomaterials. Biomaterials 2019; 217:119265. [PMID: 31271861 PMCID: PMC6689323 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.119265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has recently burst onto the center stage of cancer treatment and research. T lymphocyte adoptive cellular transfer (ACT), a form of cancer immunotherapy, has spawned unprecedented complete remissions for terminal patients with certain leukemias and lymphomas. Unfortunately, the successes have been overshadowed by the disappointing clinical results of ACT administered to treat solid tumors, in addition to the toxicities associated with the treatment, a lack of efficacy in a significant proportion of the patient population, and cancer relapse following the treatment. Biomaterials hold the promise of addressing these shortcomings. ACT consists of two main stages - T lymphocyte ex vivo expansion followed by reinfusion into the patient - and biomaterials can improve the efficacy of ACT at both stages. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the use of biomaterials for T lymphocyte adoptive cellular cancer immunotherapy and discuss the challenges at each stage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary S Dunn
- Mork Family Department of of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - John Mac
- Mork Family Department of of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Pin Wang
- Mork Family Department of of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Voerman D, Schluck M, Weiden J, Joosten B, Eggermont LJ, van den Eijnde T, Ignacio B, Cambi A, Figdor CG, Kouwer PHJ, Verdoes M, Hammink R, Rowan AE. Synthetic Semiflexible and Bioactive Brushes. Biomacromolecules 2019; 20:2587-2597. [PMID: 31150222 PMCID: PMC6620732 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.9b00385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Polymer brushes are extensively used for the preparation of bioactive surfaces. They form a platform to attach functional (bio)molecules and control the physicochemical properties of the surface. These brushes are nearly exclusively prepared from flexible polymers, even though much stiffer brushes from semiflexible polymers are frequently found in nature, which exert bioactive functions that are out of reach for flexible brushes. Synthetic semiflexible polymers, however, are very rare. Here, we use polyisocyanopeptides (PICs) to prepare high-density semiflexible brushes on different substrate geometries. For bioconjugation, we developed routes with two orthogonal click reactions, based on the strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition reaction and the (photoactivated) tetrazole-ene cycloaddition reaction. We found that for high brush densities, multiple bonds between the polymer and the substrate are necessary, which was achieved in a block copolymer strategy. Whether the desired biomolecules are conjugated to the PIC polymer before or after brush formation depends on the dimensions and required densities of the biomolecules and the curvature of the substrate. In either case, we provide mild, aqueous, and highly modular reaction strategies, which make PICs a versatile addition to the toolbox for generating semiflexible bioactive polymer brush surfaces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dion Voerman
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Department of Cell Biology, and Microscopic Imaging Center, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud
University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Schluck
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Department of Cell Biology, and Microscopic Imaging Center, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud
University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jorieke Weiden
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Department of Cell Biology, and Microscopic Imaging Center, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud
University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ben Joosten
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Department of Cell Biology, and Microscopic Imaging Center, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud
University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Loek J. Eggermont
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Department of Cell Biology, and Microscopic Imaging Center, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud
University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Tuur van den Eijnde
- Department
of Molecular Materials, Institute for Molecules
and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bob Ignacio
- Department
of Molecular Materials, Institute for Molecules
and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alessandra Cambi
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Department of Cell Biology, and Microscopic Imaging Center, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud
University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Carl G. Figdor
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Department of Cell Biology, and Microscopic Imaging Center, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud
University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Department
of Molecular Materials, Institute for Molecules
and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn Verdoes
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Department of Cell Biology, and Microscopic Imaging Center, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud
University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department
of Tumor Immunology, Department of Cell Biology, and Microscopic Imaging Center, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud
University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 26, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alan E. Rowan
- Department
of Molecular Materials, Institute for Molecules
and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Australian
Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
Nanomedicine holds significant potential to improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. Thus far, nanomedicines, i.e., 1-100(0) nm sized drug delivery systems, have been primarily used to improve the balance between the efficacy and toxicity of conjugated or entrapped chemotherapeutic drugs. The clinical performance of cancer nanomedicines has been somewhat disappointing, which is arguably mostly due to the lack of tools and technologies for patient stratification. Conversely, the clinical progress made with immunotherapy has been spectacular, achieving complete cures and inducing long-term survival in advanced-stage patients. Unfortunately, however, immunotherapy only works well in relatively small subsets of patients. Increasing amounts of preclinical and clinical data demonstrate that combining nanomedicine with immunotherapy can boost therapeutic outcomes, by turning "cold" nonimmunoresponsive tumors and metastases into "hot" immunoresponsive lesions. Nano-immunotherapy can be realized via three different approaches, in which nanomedicines are used (1) to target cancer cells, (2) to target the tumor immune microenvironment, and (3) to target the peripheral immune system. When targeting cancer cells, nanomedicines typically aim to induce immunogenic cell death, thereby triggering the release of tumor antigens and danger-associated molecular patterns, such as calreticulin translocation, high mobility group box 1 protein and adenosine triphosphate. The latter serve as adjuvants to alert antigen-presenting cells to take up, process and present the former, thereby promoting the generation of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells. Nanomedicines targeting the tumor immune microenvironment potentiate cancer immunotherapy by inhibiting immunosuppressive cells, such as M2-like tumor-associated macrophages, as well as by reducing the expression of immunosuppressive molecules, such as transforming growth factor beta. In addition, nanomedicines can be employed to promote the activity of antigen-presenting cells and cytotoxic T cells in the tumor immune microenvironment. Nanomedicines targeting the peripheral immune system aim to enhance antigen presentation and cytotoxic T cell production in secondary lymphoid organs, such as lymph nodes and spleen, as well as to engineer and strengthen peripheral effector immune cell populations, thereby promoting anticancer immunity. While the majority of immunomodulatory nanomedicines are in preclinical development, exciting results have already been reported in initial clinical trials. To ensure efficient translation of nano-immunotherapy constructs and concepts, we have to consider biomarkers in their clinical development, to make sure that the right nanomedicine formulation is combined with the right immunotherapy in the right patient. In this context, we have to learn from currently ongoing efforts in nano-biomarker identification as well as from partially already established immuno-biomarker initiatives, such as the Immunoscore and the cancer immunogram. Together, these protocols will help to capture the nano-immuno status in individual patients, enabling the identification and use of individualized and improved nanomedicine-based treatments to boost the performance of cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Shi
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Targeted Therapeutics, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Guo J, Xing C, Yuan H, Chai R, Zhan Y. Oligo (p-Phenylene Vinylene)/Polyisocyanopeptide Biomimetic Composite Hydrogel-Based Three-Dimensional Cell Culture System for Anticancer and Antibacterial Therapeutics. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2019; 2:2520-2527. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.9b00217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jingqi Guo
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, P.R. China
| | - Chengfen Xing
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, P.R. China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, P.R. China
| | - Hongbo Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, P.R. China
| | - Ran Chai
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, P.R. China
| | - Yong Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Hebei Province for Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Schluck M, Hammink R, Figdor CG, Verdoes M, Weiden J. Biomaterial-Based Activation and Expansion of Tumor-Specific T Cells. Front Immunol 2019; 10:931. [PMID: 31130945 PMCID: PMC6509561 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional tumor vaccination approaches mostly focus on activating dendritic cells (DCs) by providing them with a source of tumor antigens and/or adjuvants, which in turn activate tumor-reactive T cells. Novel biomaterial-based cancer immunotherapeutic strategies focus on directly activating and stimulating T cells through molecular cues presented on synthetic constructs with the aim of improving T cell survival, more precisely steer T cell activation and direct T cell differentiation. Synthetic artificial antigen presenting cells (aAPCs) decorated with T cell-activating ligands are being developed to induce robust tumor-specific T cell responses, essentially bypassing DCs. In this perspective, we approach these promising new technologies from an immunological angle, first by identifying the CD4+ and CD8+ T cell subtypes that are imperative for robust anti-cancer immunity and subsequently discussing the molecular cues needed to induce these cells types. We will elaborate on how biomaterials can be applied to stimulate T cells in vitro and in vivo to improve their survival, activation and function. Scaffold-based methods can also be used as delivery vehicles for adoptive transfer of T cells, including tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and chimeric antigen receptor expressing (CAR) T cells, while simultaneously stimulating these cells. Finally, we provide suggestions on how these insights could advance the field of biomaterial-based activation and expansion of tumor-specific T cells in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein Schluck
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Division of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Division of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Carl G Figdor
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Division of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Institute for Chemical Immunology, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Martijn Verdoes
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Institute for Chemical Immunology, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jorieke Weiden
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Division of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Institute for Chemical Immunology, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Sun Q, Barz M, De Geest BG, Diken M, Hennink WE, Kiessling F, Lammers T, Shi Y. Nanomedicine and macroscale materials in immuno-oncology. Chem Soc Rev 2019; 48:351-381. [PMID: 30465669 PMCID: PMC7115880 DOI: 10.1039/c8cs00473k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is revolutionizing the treatment of cancer. It can achieve unprecedented responses in advanced-stage patients, including complete cures and long-term survival. However, immunotherapy also has limitations, such as its relatively low response rates and the development of severe side effects. These drawbacks are gradually being overcome by improving our understanding of the immune system, as well as by establishing combination regimens in which immunotherapy is combined with other treatment modalities. In addition to this, in recent years, progress made in chemistry, nanotechnology and materials science has started to impact immuno-oncology, resulting in more effective and less toxic immunotherapy interventions. In this context, multiple different nanomedicine formulations and macroscale materials have been shown to be able to boost anti-cancer immunity and the efficacy of immunomodulatory drugs. We here review nanotechnological and materials chemistry efforts related to endogenous and exogenous vaccination, to the engineering of antigen-presenting cells and T cells, and to the modulation of the tumor microenvironment. We also discuss limitations, current trends and future directions. Together, the insights provided and the evidence obtained indicate that there is a bright future ahead for engineering nanomedicines and macroscale materials for immuno-oncology applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingxue Sun
- Department of Nanomedicines and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Matthias Barz
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, 55099 Mainz, Germany
| | - Bruno G. De Geest
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mustafa Diken
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Wim E. Hennink
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Fabian Kiessling
- Department of Nanomedicines and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Fraunhofer MEVIS, Institute for Medical Image Computing, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department of Nanomedicines and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Targeted Therapeutics, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Yang Shi
- Department of Nanomedicines and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Weiden J, Voerman D, Dölen Y, Das RK, van Duffelen A, Hammink R, Eggermont LJ, Rowan AE, Tel J, Figdor CG. Injectable Biomimetic Hydrogels as Tools for Efficient T Cell Expansion and Delivery. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2798. [PMID: 30546367 PMCID: PMC6279891 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomaterial-based scaffolds are promising tools for controlled immunomodulation. They can be applied as three dimensional (3D) culture systems in vitro, whereas in vivo they may be used to dictate cellular localization and exert spatiotemporal control over cues presented to the immune system. As such, scaffolds can be exploited to enhance the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies such as adoptive T cell transfer, in which localization and persistence of tumor-specific T cells dictates treatment outcome. Biomimetic polyisocyanopeptide (PIC) hydrogels are polymeric scaffolds with beneficial characteristics as they display reversible thermally-induced gelation at temperatures above 16°C, which allows for their minimally invasive delivery via injection. Moreover, incorporation of azide-terminated monomers introduces functional handles that can be exploited to include immune cell-modulating cues. Here, we explore the potential of synthetic PIC hydrogels to promote the in vitro expansion and in vivo local delivery of pre-activated T cells. We found that PIC hydrogels support the survival and vigorous expansion of pre-stimulated T cells in vitro even at high cell densities, highlighting their potential as 3D culture systems for efficient expansion of T cells for their adoptive transfer. In particular, the reversible thermo-sensitive behavior of the PIC scaffolds favors straightforward recovery of cells. PIC hydrogels that were injected subcutaneously gelated instantly in vivo, after which a confined 3D structure was formed that remained localized for at least 4 weeks. Importantly, we noticed no signs of inflammation, indicating that PIC hydrogels are non-immunogenic. Cells co-delivered with PIC polymers were encapsulated within the scaffold in vivo. Cells egressed gradually from the PIC gel and migrated into distant organs. This confirms that PIC hydrogels can be used to locally deliver cells within a supportive environment. These results demonstrate that PIC hydrogels are highly promising for both the in vitro expansion and in vivo delivery of pre-activated T cells. Covalent attachment of biomolecules onto azide-functionalized PIC polymers provides the opportunity to steer the phenotype, survival or functional response of the adoptively transferred cells. As such, PIC hydrogels can be used as valuable tools to improve current adoptive T cell therapy strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorieke Weiden
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Oncode Institute, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Dion Voerman
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Oncode Institute, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Yusuf Dölen
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Oncode Institute, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Rajat K. Das
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Materials Science Centre, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, India
| | - Anne van Duffelen
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Oncode Institute, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Oncode Institute, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Loek J. Eggermont
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Oncode Institute, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Alan E. Rowan
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jurjen Tel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Carl G. Figdor
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Oncode Institute, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Kownacka AE, Vegelyte D, Joosse M, Anton N, Toebes BJ, Lauko J, Buzzacchera I, Lipinska K, Wilson DA, Geelhoed-Duijvestijn N, Wilson CJ. Clinical Evidence for Use of a Noninvasive Biosensor for Tear Glucose as an Alternative to Painful Finger-Prick for Diabetes Management Utilizing a Biopolymer Coating. Biomacromolecules 2018; 19:4504-4511. [PMID: 30350599 PMCID: PMC6234487 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.8b01429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes is a metabolic condition that is exponentially increasing worldwide. Current monitoring methods for diabetes are invasive, painful, and expensive. Herein, we present the first multipatient clinical trial that demonstrates clearly that tear fluid may be a valuable marker for systemic glucose measurements. The NovioSense Glucose Sensor, worn under the lower eye lid (inferior conjunctival fornix), is reported to continuously measure glucose levels in the basal tear fluid with good correlation to blood glucose values, showing clear clinical feasibility in both animals and humans. Furthermore, the polysaccharide coated device previously reported by our laboratory when worn, does not induce pain or irritation. In a phase II clinical trial, six patients with type 1 Diabetes Mellitus were enrolled and the capability of the device to measure glucose in the tear fluid was evaluated. The NovioSense Glucose Sensor gives a stable signal and the results correlate well to blood glucose values obtained from finger-prick measurements determined by consensus error grid analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicja E Kownacka
- NovioSense B.V., NovioTech Campus, Transistorweg 5 , Nijmegen 6534 AT , The Netherlands
| | - Dovile Vegelyte
- NovioSense B.V., NovioTech Campus, Transistorweg 5 , Nijmegen 6534 AT , The Netherlands
| | - Maurits Joosse
- Haaglanden Medisch Centrum (HMC) , Lijnbaan 32 , Den Haag 2512 VA , The Netherlands
| | - Nicoleta Anton
- Universitatea de Medicina si Farmacie , Grigore T. Popa Str. Universitatii nr.16 , 700115 Iasi , Romania
| | - B Jelle Toebes
- NovioSense B.V., NovioTech Campus, Transistorweg 5 , Nijmegen 6534 AT , The Netherlands
| | - Jan Lauko
- NovioSense B.V., NovioTech Campus, Transistorweg 5 , Nijmegen 6534 AT , The Netherlands
| | - Irene Buzzacchera
- NovioSense B.V., NovioTech Campus, Transistorweg 5 , Nijmegen 6534 AT , The Netherlands
| | - Katarzyna Lipinska
- NovioSense B.V., NovioTech Campus, Transistorweg 5 , Nijmegen 6534 AT , The Netherlands
| | - Daniela A Wilson
- Radboud University , Heyendaalsweg 135 , 6525 AJ , Nijmegen , The Netherlands
| | | | - Christopher J Wilson
- NovioSense B.V., NovioTech Campus, Transistorweg 5 , Nijmegen 6534 AT , The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Bioinspired and biomimetic systems for advanced drug and gene delivery. J Control Release 2018; 287:142-155. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
48
|
Khor SY, Quinn JF, Whittaker MR, Truong NP, Davis TP. Controlling Nanomaterial Size and Shape for Biomedical Applications via Polymerization-Induced Self-Assembly. Macromol Rapid Commun 2018; 40:e1800438. [PMID: 30091816 DOI: 10.1002/marc.201800438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Rapid developments in the polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) technique have paved the way for the environmentally friendly production of nanoparticles with tunable size and shape for a diverse range of applications. In this feature article, the biomedical applications of PISA nanoparticles and the substantial progress made in controlling their size and shape are highlighted. In addition to early investigations into drug delivery, applications such as medical imaging, tissue culture, and blood cryopreservation are also described. Various parameters for controlling the morphology of PISA nanoparticles are discussed, including the degree of polymerization of the macro-CTA and core-forming polymers, the concentration of macro-CTA and core-forming monomers, the solid content of the final products, the solution pH, the thermoresponsitivity of the macro-CTA, the macro-CTA end group, and the initiator concentration. Finally, several limitations and challenges for the PISA technique that have been recently addressed, along with those that will require further efforts into the future, will be highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Song Yang Khor
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - John F Quinn
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Michael R Whittaker
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Nghia P Truong
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Thomas P Davis
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill, Coventry, CV47AL, UK
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Eggermont LJ, Hammink R, Blank KG, Rowan AE, Tel J, Figdor CG. Cytokine-Functionalized Synthetic Dendritic Cells for T Cell Targeted Immunotherapies. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.201800021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Loek J. Eggermont
- Department of Tumor Immunology; Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences; Radboud University Medical Center; Geert Grooteplein 26 6525 GA Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department of Tumor Immunology; Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences; Radboud University Medical Center; Geert Grooteplein 26 6525 GA Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Kerstin G. Blank
- Department of Molecular Materials; Institute for Molecules and Materials; Radboud University; Heyendaalseweg 135 6525 AJ Nijmegen The Netherlands
- Mechano(bio)chemistry; Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces; Potsdam-Golm Science Park 14424 Potsdam Germany
| | - Alan E. Rowan
- Department of Molecular Materials; Institute for Molecules and Materials; Radboud University; Heyendaalseweg 135 6525 AJ Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Jurjen Tel
- Department of Tumor Immunology; Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences; Radboud University Medical Center; Geert Grooteplein 26 6525 GA Nijmegen The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems; Laboratory of Immunoengineering; Eindhoven University of Technology; De Zaale 15 5612 AP Eindhoven The Netherlands
| | - Carl G. Figdor
- Department of Tumor Immunology; Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences; Radboud University Medical Center; Geert Grooteplein 26 6525 GA Nijmegen The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Op 't Veld RC, van den Boomen OI, Lundvig DMS, Bronkhorst EM, Kouwer PHJ, Jansen JA, Middelkoop E, Von den Hoff JW, Rowan AE, Wagener FADTG. Thermosensitive biomimetic polyisocyanopeptide hydrogels may facilitate wound repair. Biomaterials 2018; 181:392-401. [PMID: 30103178 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2018.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Changing wound dressings inflicts pain and may disrupt wound repair. Novel synthetic thermosensitive hydrogels based on polyisocyanopeptide (PIC) offer a solution. These gels are liquid below 16 °C and form gels beyond room temperature. The architecture and mechanical properties of PIC gels closely resemble collagen and fibrin, and include the characteristic stiffening response at high strains. Considering the reversible thermo-responsive behavior, we postulate that PIC gels are easy to apply and remove, and facilitate healing without eliciting foreign body responses or excessive inflammation. Biocompatibility may be higher in RGD-peptide-functionalized PIC gels due to enhanced cell binding capabilities. Full-thickness dorsal skin wounds in mice were compared to wounds treated with PIC gel and PIC-RGD gel for 3 and 7 days. No foreign body reactions and similar wound closure rates were found in all groups. The level of macrophages, myofibroblasts, epithelial migration, collagen expression, and blood vessels did not significantly differ from controls. Surprisingly, granulocyte populations in the wound decreased significantly in the PIC gel-treated groups, likely because foreign bacteria could not penetrate the gel. RGD-peptides did not further improve any effect observed for PIC. The absence of adverse effects, ease of application, and the possibilities for bio-functionalization make the biomimetic PIC hydrogels suitable for development into wound dressings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roel C Op 't Veld
- Department of Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Onno I van den Boomen
- Department of Molecular Materials, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ditte M S Lundvig
- Department of Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ewald M Bronkhorst
- Department of Cariology and Preventive Dentistry, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H J Kouwer
- Department of Molecular Materials, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - John A Jansen
- Department of Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Esther Middelkoop
- Association of Dutch Burn Centres, Martini Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands; Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes W Von den Hoff
- Department of Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alan E Rowan
- Department of Molecular Materials, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frank A D T G Wagener
- Department of Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|