Nanomaterials in tumor immunotherapy: new strategies and challenges

Exosome-transmitted circular RNA circ-LMO7 facilitates the progression of osteosarcoma by regulating miR-21-5p/ARHGAP24 axis

The potential function and mechanism of circRNAs in regulating malignant performances of Osteosarcoma (OS) cells have not been well investigated. The expression level of CircLMO7, miR-21-5p and ARHGAP24 were detected by RT-qPCR. The relationship between miR-21-5p and circ-LMO7, as well as between miR-21-5p and ARHGAP24, was predicted and examined through bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter gene experiments. Moreover, OS cell growth, invasion, migration, and apoptosis were detected using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), transwell and flow cytometry assays, respectively. ARHGAP24 protein level was measured using western blotting. In present study, we choose to investigate the role and mechanism of circ-LOM7 on OS cell proliferation, migration and invasion. circ-LOM7 was found to be down-regulated in OS tissues and cell lines. Enforced expression of circ-LOM7 suppressed the growth, invasion, and migration of OS cells. In contrast, decreasing circ-LMO7 expression had opposite effects. Furthermore, miR-21-5p was predicted to be sponged by circ-LMO7, and had an opposite role of circ-LMO7 in OS. Moreover, ARHGAP24 served as miR-21-5p's downstream target. Mechanistically, circ-LMO7 was packed in exosomes and acted as a cancer-suppresser on OS by sponging miR-21-5p and upregulating the expression of ARHGAP24. The exosomal circ-LMO7 expression was significantly decreased in OS cell exosomes, and co-culture experiments showed that exosomal circ-LMO7 suppressed the proliferation ability of OS cells. Circ-LMO7 exerts as a tumor suppressor in OS, and the circ-LMO7/miR-21-5P/ARHGAP24 axis is involved in OS progression.

Zeolitic imidazole framework-derived rich-Zn-Co3O4/N-doped porous carbon with multiple enzyme-like activities for synergistic cancer therapy

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-centered chemodynamic therapy (CDT) holds significant potential for tumor-specific treatment. However, insufficient endogenous H2O2 and extra glutathione within tumor microenvironment (TME) severely deteriorate the CDT's effectiveness. Herein, rich-Zn-Co3O4/N-doped porous carbon (Zn-Co3O4/NC) was fabricated by two-step pyrolysis, and applied to build high-efficiency nano-platform for synergistic cancer therapy upon combination with glucose oxidase (GOx), labeled Zn-Co3O4/NC-GOx for clarity. Specifically, the multiple enzyme-like activities of the Zn-Co3O4/NC were scrutinously investigated, including peroxidase-like activity to convert H2O2 to O2∙-, catalase-like activity to decompose H2O2 into O2, and oxidase-like activity to transform O2 to O2∙-, which achieved the CDT through the catalytic cascade reaction. Simultaneously, GOx reacted with intracellular glucose to produce gluconic acid and H2O2, realizing starvation therapy. In the acidic TME, the Zn-Co3O4/NC-GOx rapidly caused intracellular Zn2+ pool overload and disrupted cellular homeostasis for ion-intervention therapy. Additionally, the Zn-Co3O4/NC exhibited glutathione peroxidase-like activity, which consumed glutathione in tumor cells and reduced the ROS consumption for ferroptosis. The tumor treatments offer some constructive insights into the nanozyme-mediated catalytic medicine, coupled by avoiding the TME limitations.

Nanoparticle-Mediated Synergistic Chemoimmunotherapy for Cancer Treatment

Until now, there has been a lack of effective strategies for cancer treatment. Immunotherapy has high potential in treating several cancers but its efficacy is limited as a monotherapy. Chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) holds promise to be widely used in cancer treatment. Therefore, identifying their involvement and potential synergy in CIT approaches is decisive. Nano-based drug delivery systems (NDDSs) are ideal delivery systems because they can simultaneously target immune cells and cancer cells, promoting drug accumulation, and reducing the toxicity of the drug. In this review, we first introduce five current immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint blocking (ICB), adoptive cell transfer therapy (ACT), cancer vaccines, oncolytic virus therapy (OVT) and cytokine therapy. Subsequently, the immunomodulatory effects of chemotherapy by inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD), promoting tumor killer cell infiltration, down-regulating immunosuppressive cells, and inhibiting immune checkpoints have been described. Finally, the NDDSs-mediated collaborative drug delivery systems have been introduced in detail, and the development of NDDSs-mediated CIT nanoparticles has been prospected.

Transition-Metal-Based Nanozymes: Synthesis, Mechanisms of Therapeutic Action, and Applications in Cancer Treatment

Cancer, as one of the leading causes of death worldwide, drives the advancement of cutting-edge technologies for cancer treatment. Transition-metal-based nanozymes emerge as promising therapeutic nanodrugs that provide a reference for cancer therapy. In this review, we present recent breakthrough nanozymes for cancer treatment. First, we comprehensively outline the preparation strategies involved in creating transition-metal-based nanozymes, including hydrothermal method, solvothermal method, chemical reduction method, biomimetic mineralization method, and sol-gel method. Subsequently, we elucidate the catalytic mechanisms (catalase (CAT)-like activities), peroxidase (POD)-like activities), oxidase (OXD)-like activities) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activities) of transition-metal-based nanozymes along with their activity regulation strategies such as morphology control, size manipulation, modulation, composition adjustment and surface modification under environmental stimulation. Furthermore, we elaborate on the diverse applications of transition-metal-based nanozymes in anticancer therapies encompassing radiotherapy (RT), chemodynamic therapy (CDT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), sonodynamic therapy (SDT), immunotherapy, and synergistic therapy. Finally, the challenges faced by transition-metal-based nanozymes are discussed alongside future research directions. The purpose of this review is to offer scientific guidance that will enhance the clinical applications of nanozymes based on transition metals.

Metal-Organic Framework Nanomaterials as a Medicine for Catalytic Tumor Therapy: Recent Advances

Nanomaterials, with unique physical, chemical, and biocompatible properties, have attracted significant attention as an emerging active platform in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Amongst them, metal-organic framework (MOF) nanostructures are particularly promising as a nanomedicine due to their exceptional surface functionalities, adsorption properties, and organo-inorganic hybrid characteristics. Furthermore, when bioactive substances are integrated into the structure of MOFs, these materials can be used as anti-tumor agents with superior performance compared to traditional nanomaterials. In this review, we highlight the most recent advances in MOFs-based materials for tumor therapy, including their application in cancer treatment and the underlying mechanisms.

Defect-rich sonosensitizers based on CeO2 with Schottky heterojunctions for boosting sonodynamic/chemodynamic synergistic therapy

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) has been recognized as a promising treatment for cancer due to its advantages of superior specificity, non-invasiveness, and deep tissue penetration. However, the antitumor effect of SDT remains restricted by the limited generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to the lack of highly efficient sonosensitizers. In this work, we developed the novel sonosensitizer Pt/CeO2-xSx by constructing oxygen defects through S doping and Pt loading in situ. Large amounts of oxygen defects have been obtained by S doping, endowing Pt/CeO2-xSx with the ability to suppress electron-hole recombination, further promoting ROS production. Moreover, the introduction of Pt nanoparticles can not only produce oxygen in situ for relieving hypoxia but also form a Schottky heterojunction with CeO2-xSx for further inhibiting electron-hole recombination. In addition, Pt/CeO2-xSx could effectively deplete overexpressed glutathione (GSH) via redox reactions, amplifying oxidative stress in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Combined with the excellent POD-mimetic activity, Pt/CeO2-xSx can achieve highly efficient synergistic therapy of SDT and chemodynamic therapy (CDT). All these findings demonstrated that Pt/CeO2-xSx has great potential for cancer therapy, and this work provides a promising direction for designing and constructing efficient sonosensitizers.

Function and mechanism of exosomes derived from different cells as communication mediators in colorectal cancer metastasis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality, with metastasis being the primary determinant of poor prognosis in patients. Investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying CRC metastasis is currently a prominent and challenging area of research. Exosomes, as crucial intercellular communication mediators, facilitate the transfer of metabolic and genetic information from cells of origin to recipient cells. Their roles in mediating information exchange between CRC cells and immune cells, fibroblasts, and other cell types are pivotal in reshaping the tumor microenvironment, regulating key biological processes such as invasion, migration, and formation of pre-metastatic niche. This article comprehensively examines the communication function and mechanism of exosomes derived from different cells in cancer metastasis, while also presenting an outlook on current research advancements and future application prospects. The aim is to offer a distinctive perspective that contributes to accurate diagnosis and rational treatment strategies for CRC.

External stimuli-triggered photodynamic and sonodynamic therapies in combination with hybrid nanomicelles of ICG@PEP@HA: laser vs. ultrasound

The concept of combining external medical stimuli with internal functional biomaterials to achieve cancer-oriented treatments is being emergingly developed. Optical and acoustical activations have shown particular promise as non-invasive regulation modalities in cancer treatment and intervention. It is always challenging to leverage the contributions of optical and acoustical stimuli and find appropriate biomaterials to optimally match them. Herein, a type of hybrid nanomicelle (ICG@PEP@HA) containing ICG as a photo/sonosensitizer, an amphiphilic peptide for membrane penetration and hyaluronic acid for cluster determinant 44 (CD44) targeting was fabricated. Triggered by the external stimuli of laser and US irradiation, their photo/sonothermal performance, in vitro reactive oxygen species (ROS) production capability and tumor-targeting efficiency have been systematically evaluated. It was interestingly found that the external stimulus of laser irradiation induced a greater quantity of ROS, which resulted in significant cell apoptosis and tumor growth inhibition in the presence of ICG@PEP@HA. The individual analyses and corresponding rationales have been investigated. Meanwhile, these hybrid nanomicelles were administered into MDA-MB-231 tumor-bearing nude mice for PDT and SDT therapies and their biocompatibility assessment, and a prevailing PDT efficacy and reliable bio-safety have been evidenced based on the hematological analysis and histochemical staining. In summary, this study has validated a novel pathway to utilize these hybrid nanomicelles for laser/US-triggered localized tumor treatment, and the treatment efficiency may be leveraged by different external stimuli sources. It is also expected to give rise to full accessibility to clinical translations for human cancer treatments by means of the as-reported laser/US-nanomicelle combination strategy.

Novel Pt(IV) complex OAP2 induces STING activation and pyroptosis via mitochondrial membrane remodeling for synergistic chemo-immunotherapy

Mitochondrial membrane remodeling can trigger the release of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), leading to the activation of cellular oxidative stress and immune responses. While the role of mitochondrial membrane remodeling in promoting inflammation in hepatocytes is well-established, its effects on tumors have remained unclear. In this study, we designed a novel Pt(IV) complex, OAP2, which is composed of oxaliplatin (Oxa) and acetaminophen (APAP), to enhance its anti-tumor effects and amplify the immune response. Our findings demonstrate that OAP2 induces nuclear DNA damage, resulting in the production of nuclear DNA. Additionally, OAP2 downregulates the expression of mitochondrial Sam50, to promote mitochondrial membrane remodeling and trigger mtDNA secretion, leading to double-stranded DNA accumulation and ultimately synergistically activating the intracellular cGAS-STING pathway. The mitochondrial membrane remodeling induced by OAP2 overcomes the limitations of Oxa in activating the STING pathway and simultaneously promotes gasdermin-D-mediated cell pyroptosis. OAP2 also promotes dendritic cell maturation and enhances the quantity and efficacy of cytotoxic T cells, thereby inhibiting cancer cell proliferation and metastasis. Briefly, our study introduces the first novel small-molecule inhibitor that regulates mitochondrial membrane remodeling for active immunotherapy in anti-tumor research, which may provide a creative idea for targeting organelle in anti-tumor therapy.

Single-cell aggrephagy-related patterns facilitate tumor microenvironment intercellular communication, influencing osteosarcoma progression and prognosis

Osteosarcoma, a common malignant tumor in children, has emerged as a major threat to the life and health of pediatric patients. Presently, there are certain limitations in the diagnosis and treatment methods for this disease, resulting in inferior therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, it is of great importance to study its pathogenesis and explore innovative approaches to diagnosis and treatment. In this study, a non-negative matrix decomposition method was employed to conduct a comprehensive investigation and analysis of aggregated autophagy-related genes within 331,394 single-cell samples of osteosarcoma. Through this study, we have elucidated the intricate communication patterns among various cells within the tumor microenvironment. Based on the classification of aggregated autophagy-related genes, we are not only able to more accurately predict patients' prognosis but also offer robust guidance for treatment strategies. The findings of this study hold promise for breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of osteosarcoma, intervention of aggrephagy is expected to improve the survival rate and quality of life of osteosarcoma patients.

IL-12-Overexpressed Nanoparticles Suppress the Proliferation of Melanoma Through Inducing ICD and Activating DC, CD8+ T, and CD4+ T Cells

Purpose

The drug resistance and low response rates of immunotherapy limit its application. This study aimed to construct a new nanoparticle (CaCO3-polydopamine-polyethylenimine, CPP) to effectively deliver interleukin-12 (IL-12) and suppress cancer progress through immunotherapy.

Methods

The size distribution of CPP and its zeta potential were measured using a Malvern Zetasizer Nano-ZS90. The morphology and electrophoresis tentative delay of CPP were analyzed using a JEM-1400 transmission electron microscope and an ultraviolet spectrophotometer, respectively. Cell proliferation was analyzed by MTT assay. Proteins were analyzed by Western blot. IL-12 and HMGB1 levels were estimated by ELISA kits. Live/dead staining assay was performed using a Calcein-AM/PI kit. ATP production was detected using an ATP assay kit. The xenografts in vivo were estimated in C57BL/6 mice. The levels of CD80+/CD86+, CD3+/CD4+ and CD3+/CD8+ were analyzed by flow cytometry.

Results

CPP could effectively express EGFP or IL-12 and increase ROS levels. Laser treatment promoted CPP-IL-12 induced the number of dead or apoptotic cell. CPP-IL-12 and laser could further enhance CALR levels and extracellular HMGB1 levels and decrease intracellular HMGB1 and ATP levels, indicating that it may induce immunogenic cell death (ICD). The tumors and weights of xenografts in CPP-IL-12 or laser-treated mice were significantly reduced than in controls. The IL-12 expression, the CD80+/CD86+ expression of DC from lymph glands, and the number of CD3+/CD8+T or CD3+/CD4+T cells from the spleen increased in CPP-IL-12-treated or laser-treated xenografts compared with controls. The levels of granzyme B, IFN-γ, and TNF-α in the serum of CPP-IL-12-treated mice increased. Interestingly, CPP-IL-12 treatment in local xenografts in the back of mice could effectively inhibit the growth of the distant untreated tumor.

Conclusion

The novel CPP-IL-12 could overexpress IL-12 in melanoma cells and achieve immunotherapy to melanoma through inducing ICD, activating CD4+ T cell, and enhancing the function of tumor-reactive CD8+ T cells.

Hybrid Cellular Nanovesicles Block PD-L1 Signal and Repolarize M2 Macrophages for Cancer Immunotherapy

The PD1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint blocking is a promising therapy, while immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and poor tumor penetration of therapeutic antibodies limit its efficacy. Repolarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) offers a potential method to ameliorate immunosuppression of TME and further boost T cell antitumor immunity. Herein, hybrid cell membrane biomimetic nanovesicles (hNVs) are developed by fusing M1 macrophage-derived nanovesicles (M1-NVs) and PD1-overexpressed tumor cell-derived nanovesicles (PD1-NVs) to improve cancer immunotherapy. The M1-NVs promote the transformation of M2-like TAMs to M1-like phenotype and further increase the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, resulting in improved immunosuppressive TME. Concurrently, the PD1-NVs block PD1/PD-L1 pathway, which boosts cancer immunotherapy when combined with M1-NVs. In a breast cancer mouse model, the hNVs efficiently accumulate at the tumor site after intravenous injection and significantly inhibit the tumor growth. Mechanically, the M1 macrophages and CD8+ T lymphocytes in TME increase by twofold after the treatment, indicating effective immune activation. These results suggest the hNVs as a promising strategy to integrate TME improvement with PD1/PD-L1 blockade for cancer immunotherapy.

PLGA nanomedical consignation: A novel approach for the management of prostate cancer

The malignancy of the prostate is a complicated ailment which impacts millions of male populations around the globe. Despite the multitude of endeavour accomplished within this domain, modalities that are involved in the ameliorative management of predisposed infirmity are still relent upon non-specific and invasive procedures, thus imposing a detrimental mark on the living standard of the individual. Also, the orchestrated therapeutic interventions are still incompetent in substantiating a robust and unabridged therapeutic end point owing to their inadequate solubility, low bioavailability, limited cell assimilation, and swift deterioration, thereby muffling the clinical application of these existing treatment modalities. Nanotechnology has been employed in an array of modalities for the medical management of malignancies. Among the assortment of available nano-scaffolds, nanocarriers composed of a bio-decomposable and hybrid polymeric material like PLGA hold an opportunity to advance as standard chemotherapeutic modalities. PLGA-based nanocarriers have the prospect to address the drawbacks associated with conventional cancer interventions, owing to their versatility, durability, nontoxic nature, and their ability to facilitate prolonged drug release. This review intends to describe the plethora of evidence-based studies performed to validate the applicability of PLGA nanosystem in the amelioration of prostate malignancies, in conjunction with PLGA focused nano-scaffold in the clinical management of prostate carcinoma. This review seeks to explore numerous evidence-based studies confirming the applicability of PLGA nanosystems in ameliorating prostate malignancies. It also delves into the role of PLGA-focused nano-scaffolds in the clinical management of prostate carcinoma, aiming to provide a comprehensive perspective on these advancements.

Effect of bovine colostrum liposomes on the bioavailability of immunoglobulin G and their immunoregulatory function in immunosuppressed BALB/c mice

Bovine colostrum (BC) has high nutritional value; however, the low bioavailability of immune active substances in BC may affect their immunoregulatory function. Our previous studies indicated that encapsulating bovine colostrum with liposomes could enable the sustained release of immunoglobulin G in vitro; however, the effect of bovine colostrum liposomes (BCLs) on the bioavailability of immunoglobulins in vivo is still unknown. In addition, the immunoregulatory function of BCLs on immunosuppressed mice is still unclear. Therefore, our current study aimed to explore the effect of BCLs on the bioavailability of immunoglobulins, and further explore their immunoregulatory effect on immunosuppressed BALB/c mice. Through metabolic cage experiments, it was shown that BCLs decreased the urine and fecal concentrations of IgG and exhibited a higher bioavailability of IgG in mice than BC (about 2-fold). In addition, by establishing an immunosuppressed animal model, it was found that BCLs could increase the body weight, spleen weight, and thymus weight in immunosuppressed BALB/c mice, which further restored the serum levels of interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-10 (IL-10), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and interferon γ (IFN-γ). Through histology analysis, it was suggested that BCLs restored the structure of jejunal epithelial cells, which was accompanied by an improvement in intestinal cytokine levels (IL-4, IL-10, TNF-α, and IFN-γ). Finally, BCLs increased serum and intestine concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) in immunosuppressed BALB/c mice, which further indicated that BCLs had a sustained-release effect for immunoglobulin G in vivo. Our current research will provide a basis for understanding the role of BCLs on the bioavailability of IgG and their immunoregulatory effect on immunosuppressed mice, which might further provide some reference for the application of BCLs.

Cocktail Cell-Reprogrammed Hydrogel Microspheres Achieving Scarless Hair Follicle Regeneration

The scar repair inevitably causes damage of skin function and loss of skin appendages such as hair follicles (HF). It is of great challenge in wound repair that how to intervene in scar formation while simultaneously remodeling HF niche and inducing in situ HF regeneration. Here, chemical reprogramming techniques are used to identify a clinically chemical cocktail (Tideglusib and Tamibarotene) that can drive fibroblasts toward dermal papilla cell (DPC) fate. Considering the advantage of biomaterials in tissue repair and their regulation in cell behavior that may contributes to cellular reprogramming, the artificial HF seeding (AHFS) hydrogel microspheres, inspired by the natural processes of "seeding and harvest", are constructed via using a combination of liposome nanoparticle drug delivery system, photoresponsive hydrogel shell, positively charged polyamide modification, microfluidic and photocrosslinking techniques. The identified chemical cocktail is as the core nucleus of AHFS. In vitro and in vivo studies show that AHFS can regulate fibroblast fate, induce fibroblast-to-DPC reprogramming by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway, finally promoting wound healing and in situ HF regeneration while inhibiting scar formation in a two-pronged translational approach. In conclusion, AHFS provides a new and effective strategy for functional repair of skin wounds.

Koetjapic acid: unveiling its potential as a saviour in the realm of biological and medicinal properties, with a focus on anticancer mechanism of action

Scientists have been compelled to search for alternative treatments due to the increasing prevalence of chemoresistance as well as the agonising and distressing side effects of both chemotherapy and radiation. Plant extracts have been exploited to treat various medical conditions for ages. Considering this fact, the main focus of various recent studies that are being conducted to find new and potent anticancer drugs involves the identification and utilisation of potential therapeutic chemicals present in plant extracts. Koetjapic acid (KJA), which belongs to the family of triterpenes, is primarily isolated from Sandoricum koetjape. Ongoing investigations into its therapeutic applications have revealed its tendency to impede the growth and proliferation of cancer cells. Koetjapic acid activates the intrinsic apoptotic pathway and promotes the death of cancer cells. Moreover, it inhibits angiogenesis and the dissemination of tumour (metastasis) by targeting the VEGF signalling cascade. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the underlying mechanism of anticancer activity of koetjapic acid, providing significant insight into the compound's potential as an anticancer agent.

Advances in Nanoplatforms for Immunotherapy Applications Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment

Cancer immunotherapy is a treatment method that activates or enhances the autoimmune response of the body to fight tumor growth and metastasis, has fewer toxic side effects and a longer-lasting efficacy than radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and has become an important means for the clinical treatment of cancer. However, clinical results from immunotherapy have shown that most patients lack responsiveness to immunotherapy and cannot benefit from this treatment strategy. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in the response to immunotherapy. The TME typically prevents effective lymphocyte activation, reducing their infiltration, and inhibiting the infiltration of effector T cells. According to the characteristic differences between the TME and normal tissues, various nanoplatforms with TME targeting and regulation properties have been developed for more precise regulation of the TME and have the ability to codeliver a variety of active pharmaceutical ingredients, thereby reducing systemic toxicity and improving the therapeutic effect of antitumor. In addition, the precise structural design of the nanoplatform can integrate specific functional motifs, such as surface-targeted ligands, degradable backbones, and TME stimulus-responsive components, into nanomedicines, thereby reshaping the tumor microenvironment, improving the body's immunosuppressive state, and enhancing the permeability of drugs in tumor tissues, in order to achieve controlled and stimulus-triggered release of load cargo. In this review, the physiological characteristics of the TME and the latest research regarding the application of TME-regulated nanoplatforms in improving antitumor immunotherapy will be described. Furthermore, the existing problems and further applications perspectives of TME-regulated platforms for cancer immunotherapy will also be discussed.

The fabrication of the chitosan-based bioink for in vitro tissue repair and regeneration: A review

The repair and regeneration of the injured tissues or organs is a major challenge for biomedicine, and the emerging 3D bioprinting technology as a class of promising techniques in biomedical research for the development of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Chitosan-based bioinks, as the natural biomaterials, are considered as ideal materials for 3D bioprinting to design and fabricate the various scaffold due to their unique dynamic reversibility and fantastic biological properties. Our review aims to provide an overview of chitosan-based bioinks for in vitro tissue repair and regeneration, starting from modification of chitosan that affect these bioprinting processes. In addition, we summarize the advances in chitosan-based bioinks used in the various 3D printing strategies. Moreover, the biomedical applications of chitosan-based bioinks are discussed, primarily centered on regenerative medicine and tissue modeling engineering. Finally, current challenges and future opportunities in this field are discussed. The combination of chitosan-based bioinks and 3D bioprinting will hold promise for developing novel biomedical scaffolds for tissue or organ repair and regeneration.

Neoantigen vaccine nanoformulations based on Chemically synthesized minimal mRNA (CmRNA): small molecules, big impact

Recently, chemically synthesized minimal mRNA (CmRNA) has emerged as a promising alternative to in vitro transcribed mRNA (IVT-mRNA) for cancer therapy and immunotherapy. CmRNA lacking the untranslated regions and polyadenylation exhibits enhanced stability and efficiency. Encapsulation of CmRNA within lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPPs) offers an effective approach for personalized neoantigen mRNA vaccines with improved control over tumor growth. LPP-based delivery systems provide superior pharmacokinetics, stability, and lower toxicity compared to viral vectors, naked mRNA, or lipid nanoparticles that are commonly used for mRNA delivery. Precise customization of LPPs in terms of size, surface charge, and composition allows for optimized cellular uptake, target specificity, and immune stimulation. CmRNA-encoded neo-antigens demonstrate high translational efficiency, enabling immune recognition by CD8+ T cells upon processing and presentation. This perspective highlights the potential benefits, challenges, and future directions of CmRNA neoantigen vaccines in cancer therapy compared to Circular RNAs and IVT-mRNA. Further research is needed to optimize vaccine design, delivery, and safety assessment in clinical trials. Nevertheless, personalized LPP-CmRNA vaccines hold great potential for advancing cancer immunotherapy, paving the way for personalized medicine.

What role does GPR65 play in the progression of osteosarcoma? Its mechanism and clinical significance

BACKGROUND

GPR65 is a pH-sensing G-protein-coupled receptor that acts as a key innate immune checkpoint in the human tumor microenvironment, inhibiting the release of inflammatory factors and inducing significant upregulation of tissue repair genes. However, the expression pattern and function of GPR65 in osteosarcoma (OS) remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate and elucidate the role of GPR65 in the microenvironment, proliferation and migration of OS.

METHODS

Retrospective RNA-seq data analysis was conducted in a cohort of 97 patients with OS data in the TAEGET database. In addition, single-cell sequencing data from six surgical specimens of human OS patients was used to analyze the molecular evolution process during OS genesis. Tissues chips and bioinformatics results were used to verify GPR65 expression level in OS. MTT, colony formation, EdU assay, wound healing, transwell assay and F-actin assay were utilized to analyze cell proliferation and invasion of OS cancer cells. RNA-seq was used to explore the potential mechanism of GPR65's role in OS.

RESULTS

GPR65 expression was significantly low in OS, and subgroup analysis found that younger OS patients, OS patients in metastatic status, and overall survival and progression free survival OS patients had lower GPR65 expression. From ScRNA-seq data of GSE162454, we found the expression of GPR65 is significantly positively correlated with CD4 + T cells CD8 + T cells and OS related macrophage infiltration. Verification experiment found that silencing the expression of GPR65 in osteosarcoma cells U2OS and HOS could promote the proliferation and invasion process, RNA-seq results showed that the role of GPR65 in OS cells was related to immune system, metabolism and signal transduction.

CONCLUSION

The low expression of GPR65 in OS leads to high metastasis rate and poor prognosis in OS patients. The suppression of immune escape and inhibition of proliferation may be a key pathway for GPR65 to participate in the progression of OS. The current study strengthens the role of GPR65 in OS development and provides a potential biomarker for the prognosis of OS patients.

Advances in the variations and biomedical applications of stimuli-responsive nanodrug delivery systems

Chemotherapy is an important cancer treatment modality, but the clinical utility of chemotherapeutics is limited by their toxic side effects, inadequate distribution and insufficient intracellular concentrations. Nanodrug delivery systems (NDDSs) have shown significant advantages in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Variable NDDSs that respond to endogenous and exogenous triggers have attracted much research interest. Here, we summarized nanomaterials commonly used for tumor therapy, such as peptides, liposomes, and carbon nanotubes, as well as the responses of NDDSs to pH, enzymes, magnetic fields, light, and multiple stimuli. Specifically, well-designed NDDSs can change in size or morphology or rupture when induced by one or more stimuli. The varying responses of NDDSs to stimulation contribute to the molecular design and development of novel NDDSs, providing new ideas for improving drug penetration and accumulation, inhibiting tumor resistance and metastasis, and enhancing immunotherapy.

In silico ADMET profiling of Docetaxel and development of camel milk derived liposomes nanocarriers for sustained release of Docetaxel in triple negative breast cancer

This study aimed at encapsulation of commonly administered, highly cytotoxic anticancer drug Docetaxel (DTX) in camel milk fat globule-derived liposomes for delivery in triple negative breast cancer cells. Prior to liposomal encapsulation of drug, in silico analysis of Docetaxel was done to predict off target binding associated toxicities in different organs. For this purpose, the ADMET Predictor (TM) Cloud version 10.4.0.5, 64-bit, was utilized to simulate Docetaxel's pharmacokinetic and physicochemical parameters. Freshly milked camel milk was bought from local market, from two breeds Brella and Marecha, in suburbs of Islamabad. After extraction of MFGM-derived liposomes from camel milk, docetaxel was loaded into liposomes by thin film hydration method. The physiochemical properties of liposomes were analyzed by SEM, FTIR and Zeta analysis. The results from SEM showed that empty liposomes (Lp-CM-ChT80) had spherical morphology while DTX loaded liposomes (Lp-CM-ChT80-DTX) exhibited rectangular shape, FTIR revealed the presence of characteristic functional groups which confirmed the successful encapsulation of DTX. Zeta analysis showed that Lp-CM-ChT80-DTX had size of 836.6 nm with PDI of 0.088 and zeta potential of - 18.7 mV. The encapsulation efficiency of Lp-CM-ChT80 turned out to be 25% while in vitro release assay showed slow release of DTX from liposomes as compared to pure DTX using dialysis membrane. The in vitro anticancer activity was analyzed by cell morphology analysis and MTT cytotoxicity assay using different concentrations 80 µg/ml, 120 µg/ml and 180 µg/ml of Lp-CM-ChT80-DTX on MDA-MB-231 cells. The results showed cytotoxic effects increased in time and dose dependent manner, marked by rounding, shrinkage and aggregation of cells. MTT cytotoxicity assay showed that empty liposomes Lp-CM-ChT80 did not have cytotoxic effect while Lp-CM-ChT80-DTX showed highest cytotoxic potential of 60.2% at 180 µg/ml. Stability analysis showed that liposomes were stable till 24 h in solution form at 4 °C.

CircIRAK3 exerts negative feedback regulation on inflammation by binding to HNRNP U and destabilizing proinflammatory cytokine mRNA in osteoarthritis and chondrogenesis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent age-related and degenerative joint disease with limited treatment options. Previous studies have identified the therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapy. Nevertheless, chronic inflammation impedes MSCs therapeutic effect. There have been reports suggesting that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in OA and chondrogenesis. The combination of MSCs and circRNAs in therapies appears to be a promising option. In this study, we identified circIRAK3 as a significant regulator in cartilage degeneration and chondrogenesis through high-throughput sequencing analyses. We observed increased circIRAK3 in OA cartilage and during MSCs chondrogenesis. Knockdown of circIRAK3 resulted in excessive apoptosis, inhibited proliferation, and degradation of chondrocytes, along with the inhibition of MSCs chondrogenesis. Mechanistically, circIRAK3 bound to HNRNP U and competitively prevented its binding to IL-1β, TNFα, and IL6 mRNA, thereby promoting mRNA degradation. Notably, circIRAK3 expression in plasma increased with higher OARSI scores. Intra-articular injection of adeno-associated virus-circIRAK3 delayed cartilage degeneration and reduced inflammation in DMM mouse model. Our study highlights a compensatory regulation network of circIRAK3 in chondrocytes in response to inflammation. CircIRAK3 has the potential to serve as a new therapeutic target for OA. Furthermore, therapies targeting circIRAK3 combined with MSCs hold promise.

Research progress of calcium carbonate nanomaterials in cancer therapy: challenge and opportunity

Cancer has keeping the main threat to the health of human being. Its overall survival rate has shown rare substantial progress in spite of the improving diagnostic and treatment techniques for cancer in recent years. Indeed, such classic strategies for malignant tumor as surgery, radiation and chemotherapy have been developed and bring more hope to the patients, but still been accompanied by certain limitations, which include the challenge of managing large wound sizes, systemic toxic side effects, and harmful to the healthy tissues caused by imprecise alignment with tumors in radiotherapy. Furthermore, immunotherapy exhibits a limited therapeutic effect in advanced tumors which is reported only up to 25%-30%. The combination of nanomaterials and cancer treatment offers new hope for cancer patients, demonstrating strong potential in the field of medical research. Among the extensively utilized nanomaterials, calcium carbonate nanomaterials (CCNM) exhibit a broad spectrum of biomedical applications due to their abundant availability, cost-effectiveness, and exceptional safety profile. CCNM have the potential to elevate intracellular Ca2+ levels in tumor cells, trigger the mitochondrial damage and ultimately lead to tumor cell death. Moreover, compared with other types of nanomaterials, CCNM exhibit remarkable advantages as delivery systems owing to their high loading capacity, biocompatibility and biodegradability. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of CCNM synthesis, focusing on summarizing its diverse roles in cancer treatment and the benefits and challenges associated with CCNM in cancer therapy. Hoping to present the significance of CCNM as for the clinical application, and summarize information for the design of CCNM and other types of nanomaterials in the future.

Agonism of 4-1BB for immune therapy: a perspective on possibilities and complications

Costimulatory receptors on immune cells represent attractive targets for immunotherapy given that these molecules can increase the frequency of individual protective immune cell populations and their longevity, as well as enhance various effector functions. 4-1BB, a member of the TNF receptor superfamily, also known as CD137 and TNFRSF9, is one such molecule that is inducible on several cell types, including T cells and NK cells. Preclinical studies in animal models have validated the notion that stimulating 4-1BB with agonist reagents or its natural ligand could be useful to augment conventional T cell and NK cell immunity to protect against tumor growth and against viral infection. Additionally, stimulating 4-1BB can enhance regulatory T cell function and might be useful in the right context for suppressing autoimmunity. Two human agonist antibodies to 4-1BB have been produced and tested in clinical trials for cancer, with variable results, leading to the production of a wealth of second-generation antibody constructs, including bi- and multi-specifics, with the hope of optimizing activity and selectivity. Here, we review the progress to date in agonism of 4-1BB, discuss the complications in targeting the immune system appropriately to elicit the desired activity, together with challenges in engineering agonists, and highlight the untapped potential of manipulating this molecule in infectious disease and autoimmunity.