1
|
Radzevičiūtė-Valčiukė E, Malyško-Ptašinskė V, Mickevičiūtė E, Kulbacka J, Rembiałkowska N, Zinkevičienė A, Novickij J, Novickij V. Calcium electroporation causes ATP depletion in cells and is effective both in microsecond and nanosecond pulse range as a modality of electrochemotherapy. Bioelectrochemistry 2024; 155:108574. [PMID: 37738862 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2023.108574] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Calcium electroporation is a modality of electrochemotherapy (ECT), which is based on intracellular electric field-mediated delivery of cytotoxic doses of calcium into the cells resulting in rapid cell death. In this work, we have developed a CHO-K1 luminescent cell line, which allowed the estimation of cell membrane permeabilization, ATP depletion and cytotoxicity evaluation without the use of additional markers and methodologies. We have shown the high efficiency of nanosecond pulses compressed into a MHz burst for application in calcium ECT treatments. The 5 kV/cm and 10 kV/cm nanosecond (100 and 600 ns) pulses were delivered in bursts of 10, 50 and 100 pulses (a total of 12 parametric protocols) and then compared to standard microsecond range sequences (100 µs × 8) of 0.4-1.4 kV/cm. The effects of calcium-free, 2 mM and 5 mM calcium electroporation treatments were characterized. It was shown that reversible electroporation is accompanied by ATP depletion associated with membrane damage, while during calcium ECT the ATP depletion is several-fold higher, which results in cell death. Finally, efficacy-wise equivalent pulse parameters from nanosecond and microsecond ranges were established, which can be used for calcium nano-ECT as a better alternative to ESOPE (European Standard Operating Procedures on Electrochemotherapy) protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eivina Radzevičiūtė-Valčiukė
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology, Vilnius, Lithuania; Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Eglė Mickevičiūtė
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Julita Kulbacka
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology, Vilnius, Lithuania; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Nina Rembiałkowska
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Auksė Zinkevičienė
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Jurij Novickij
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Vitalij Novickij
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology, Vilnius, Lithuania; Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rembiałkowska N, Szlasa W, Radzevičiūtė-Valčiukė E, Kulbacka J, Novickij V. Negative effects of cancellation during nanosecond range High-Frequency calcium based electrochemotherapy in vitro. Int J Pharm 2023; 648:123611. [PMID: 37977287 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123611] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Drug delivery using nanosecond pulsed electric fields is a new branch of electroporation-based treatments, which potentially can substitute European standard operating procedures for electrochemotherapy. In this work, for the first time, we characterize the effects of ultra-fast repetition frequency (1-2.5 MHz) nanosecond pulses (5-9 kV/cm, 200 and 400 ns) in the context of nano-electrochemotherapy with calcium. Additionally, we investigate the feasibility of bipolar symmetric (↑200 ns + ↓200 ns) and asymmetric (↑200 ns + ↓400 ns) nanosecond protocols for calcium delivery. The effects of bipolar cancellation and the influence of interphase delay (200 ns) are overviewed. Human lung cancer cell lines A549 and H69AR were used as a model. It was shown that unipolar pulses delivered at high frequency are effective for electrochemotherapy with a significant improvement in efficiency when the delay between separate pulses is reduced. Bipolar symmetric pulses trigger the cancellation phenomenon limiting applications for drug delivery and can be compensated by the asymmetry of the pulse (↑200 ns + ↓400 ns or ↑400 ns + ↓200 ns). The results of this study can be successfully used to derive a new generation of nsPEF protocols for successful electrochemotherapy treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina Rembiałkowska
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Wojciech Szlasa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Eivina Radzevičiūtė-Valčiukė
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania; State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology and Bioelectrochemistry, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Julita Kulbacka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland; State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology and Bioelectrochemistry, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Vitalij Novickij
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania; State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology and Bioelectrochemistry, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Radzevičiūtė-Valčiukė E, Želvys A, Mickevičiūtė E, Gečaitė J, Zinkevičienė A, Malyško-Ptašinskė V, Kašėta V, Novickij J, Ivaškienė T, Novickij V. Calcium Electrochemotherapy for Tumor Eradication and the Potential of High-Frequency Nanosecond Protocols. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1083. [PMID: 37630998 PMCID: PMC10460074 DOI: 10.3390/ph16081083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcium electroporation (CaEP) is an innovative approach to treating cancer, involving the internalization of supraphysiological amounts of calcium through electroporation, which leads to cell death. CaEP enables the replacement of chemotherapeutics (e.g., bleomycin). Here, we present a standard microsecond (μsCaEP) and novel high-frequency nanosecond protocols for calcium electroporation (nsCaEP) for the elimination of carcinoma tumors in C57BL/6J mice. We show the efficacy of CaEP in eliminating tumors and increasing their survival rates in vivo. The antitumor immune response after the treatment was observed by investigating immune cell populations in tumors, spleens, lymph nodes, and blood, as well as assessing antitumor antibodies. CaEP treatment resulted in an increased percentage of CD4+ and CD8+ central memory T cells and decreased splenic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). Moreover, increased levels of antitumor IgG antibodies after CaEP treatment were detected. The experimental results demonstrated that the administration of CaEP led to tumor growth delay, increased survival rates, and stimulated immune response, indicating a potential synergistic relationship between CaEP and immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eivina Radzevičiūtė-Valčiukė
- Department of Immunology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.Ž.); (J.G.); (A.Z.); (T.I.)
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania; (V.M.-P.); (J.N.)
| | - Augustinas Želvys
- Department of Immunology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.Ž.); (J.G.); (A.Z.); (T.I.)
| | - Eglė Mickevičiūtė
- Department of Biomodels, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, 11342 Vilnius, Lithuania; (E.M.); (V.K.)
| | - Jovita Gečaitė
- Department of Immunology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.Ž.); (J.G.); (A.Z.); (T.I.)
| | - Auksė Zinkevičienė
- Department of Immunology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.Ž.); (J.G.); (A.Z.); (T.I.)
| | - Veronika Malyško-Ptašinskė
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania; (V.M.-P.); (J.N.)
| | - Vytautas Kašėta
- Department of Biomodels, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, 11342 Vilnius, Lithuania; (E.M.); (V.K.)
| | - Jurij Novickij
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania; (V.M.-P.); (J.N.)
| | - Tatjana Ivaškienė
- Department of Immunology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.Ž.); (J.G.); (A.Z.); (T.I.)
| | - Vitalij Novickij
- Department of Immunology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, 08406 Vilnius, Lithuania; (A.Ž.); (J.G.); (A.Z.); (T.I.)
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania; (V.M.-P.); (J.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lisec B, Markelc B, Ursic Valentinuzzi K, Sersa G, Cemazar M. The effectiveness of calcium electroporation combined with gene electrotransfer of a plasmid encoding IL-12 is tumor type-dependent. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1189960. [PMID: 37304301 PMCID: PMC10247961 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1189960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction In calcium electroporation (CaEP), electroporation enables the cellular uptake of supraphysiological concentrations of Ca2+, causing the induction of cell death. The effectiveness of CaEP has already been evaluated in clinical trials; however, confirmatory preclinical studies are still needed to further elucidate its effectiveness and underlying mechanisms. Here, we tested and compared its efficiency on two different tumor models to electrochemotherapy (ECT) and in combination with gene electrotransfer (GET) of a plasmid encoding interleukin-12 (IL-12). We hypothesized that IL-12 potentiates the antitumor effect of local ablative therapies as CaEP and ECT. Methods The effect of CaEP was tested in vitro as well as in vivo in murine melanoma B16-F10 and murine mammary carcinoma 4T1 in comparison to ECT with bleomycin. Specifically, the treatment efficacy of CaEP with increasing calcium concentrations alone or in combination with IL-12 GET in different treatment protocols was investigated. We closely examined the tumor microenvironment by immunofluorescence staining of immune cells, as well as blood vessels and proliferating cells. Results In vitro, CaEP and ECT with bleomycin reduced cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. We observed no differences in sensitivity between the two cell lines. A dose-dependent response was also observed in vivo; however, the efficacy was better in 4T1 tumors than in B16-F10 tumors. In 4T1 tumors, CaEP with 250 mM Ca resulted in more than 30 days of growth delay, which was comparable to ECT with bleomycin. In contrast, adjuvant peritumoral application of IL-12 GET after CaEP prolonged the survival of B16-F10, but not 4T1-bearing mice. Moreover, CaEP with peritumoral IL-12 GET modified tumor immune cell populations and tumor vasculature. Conclusions Mice bearing 4T1 tumors responded better to CaEP in vivo than mice bearing B16-F10 tumors, even though a similar response was observed in vitro. Namely, one of the most important factors might be involvement of the immune system. This was confirmed by the combination of CaEP or ECT with IL-12 GET, which further enhanced antitumor effectiveness. However, the potentiation of CaEP effectiveness was also highly dependent on tumor type; it was more pronounced in poorly immunogenic B16-F10 tumors compared to moderately immunogenic 4T1 tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Lisec
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Bostjan Markelc
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Katja Ursic Valentinuzzi
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, Izola, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Irreversible Electroporation in Pancreatic Cancer-An Evolving Experimental and Clinical Method. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054381. [PMID: 36901812 PMCID: PMC10002122 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054381] [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: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has no symptoms until the disease has advanced and is aggressive cancer with early metastasis. Up to now, the only curative treatment is surgical resection, which is possible in the early stages of the disease. Irreversible electroporation treatment offers new hope for patients with unresectable tumors. Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a type of ablation therapy that has been explored as a potential treatment for pancreatic cancer. Ablation therapies involve the use of energy to destroy or damage cancer cells. IRE involves using high-voltage, low-energy electrical pulses to create resealing in the cell membrane, causing the cell to die. This review summarizes experiential and clinical findings in terms of the IRE applications. As was described, IRE can be a non-pharmacological approach (electroporation) or combined with anticancer drugs or standard treatment methods. The efficacy of irreversible electroporation (IRE) in eliminating pancreatic cancer cells has been demonstrated through both in vitro and in vivo studies, and it has been shown to induce an immune response. Nevertheless, further investigation is required to assess its effectiveness in human subjects and to comprehensively understand IRE's potential as a treatment option for pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
|
6
|
High-Frequency Nanosecond Bleomycin Electrochemotherapy and its Effects on Changes in the Immune System and Survival. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246254. [PMID: 36551739 PMCID: PMC9776811 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, a time-dependent and time-independent study on bleomycin-based high-frequency nsECT (3.5 kV/cm × 200 pulses) for the elimination of LLC1 tumours in C57BL/6J mice is performed. We show the efficiency of nsECT (200 ns and 700 ns delivered at 1 kHz and 1 MHz) for the elimination of tumours in mice and increase of their survival. The dynamics of the immunomodulatory effects were observed after electrochemotherapy by investigating immune cell populations and antitumour antibodies at different timepoints after the treatment. ECT treatment resulted in an increased percentage of CD4+ T, splenic memory B and tumour-associated dendritic cell subsets. Moreover, increased levels of antitumour IgG antibodies after ECT treatment were detected. Based on the time-dependent study results, nsECT treatment upregulated PD 1 expression on splenic CD4+ Tr1 cells, increased the expansion of splenic CD8+ T, CD4+CD8+ T, plasma cells and the proportion of tumour-associated pro inflammatory macrophages. The Lin- population of immune cells that was increased in the spleens and tumour after nsECT was identified. It was shown that nsECT prolonged survival of the treated mice and induced significant changes in the immune system, which shows a promising alliance of nanosecond electrochemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Collapse
|
7
|
Rao X, Chen S, Alfadhl Y, Chen X, Sun L, Yu L, Zhou J. Pulse width and intensity effects of pulsed electric fields on cancerous and normal skin cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18039. [PMID: 36302879 PMCID: PMC9613658 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22874-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Microsecond pulsed electric fields (PEF) have previously been used for various tumour therapies, such as gene therapy, electrochemotherapy and irreversible electroporation (IRE), due to its demonstrated ability. However, recently nanosecond pulsed electric fields (nsPEF) have also been used as a potential tumor therapy via inducing cell apoptosis or immunogenic cell death to prevent recurrence and metastasis by interacting with intracellular organelles. A large proportion of the existing in-vitro studies of nsPEF on cells also suggests cell necrosis and swelling/blebbing can be induced, but the replicability and potential for other effects on cells suggesting a complicated process which requires further investigation. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of pulse width and intensity of nsPEF on the murine melanoma cells (B16) and normal murine fibroblast cells (L929) through electromagnetic simulation and in-vitro experiments. Through examining the evolution patterns of potential difference and electric fields on the intracellular compartments, the simulation has shown a differential effect of nsPEF on normal and cancerous skin cells, which explains well the results observed in the reported experiments. In addition, the modelling has provided a clear evidence that a few hundreds of ns PEF may have caused a mixed mode of effects, i.e. a 'cocktail effect', including cell electroporation and IRE due to an over their threshold voltage induced on the plasma membrane, as well as cell apoptosis and other biological effects caused by its interaction with the intracellular compartments. The in-vitro experiments in the pulse range of the hundreds of nanoseconds showed a possible differential cytotoxicity threshold of electric field intensity between B16 cells and L929 cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Rao
- grid.411963.80000 0000 9804 6672School of Electronics and Information, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018 China
| | - Sophia Chen
- grid.7445.20000 0001 2113 8111School of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ UK
| | - Yasir Alfadhl
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS UK
| | - Xiaodong Chen
- grid.411963.80000 0000 9804 6672School of Electronics and Information, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018 China ,grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS UK
| | - Lingling Sun
- grid.411963.80000 0000 9804 6672School of Electronics and Information, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018 China
| | - Liyang Yu
- grid.411963.80000 0000 9804 6672School of Electronics and Information, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018 China
| | - Jun Zhou
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060School of Electronic Science and Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610054 China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kraemer MM, Tsimpaki T, Berchner-Pfannschmidt U, Bechrakis NE, Seitz B, Fiorentzis M. Calcium Electroporation Reduces Viability and Proliferation Capacity of Four Uveal Melanoma Cell Lines in 2D and 3D Cultures. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122889. [PMID: 35740554 PMCID: PMC9221408 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Calcium electroporation (CaEP) is an innovative anti-tumor treatment modality that induces cell death by introducing supraphysiological concentrations of calcium into cells with a limited effect on normal cells. The objective of the present study is to assess the effect of CaEP in uveal melanoma (UM) cell lines in comparison to electrochemotherapy (ECT) with bleomycin using 2D monolayer cell cultures as well as 3D tumor spheroid models in four different UM cell lines. The morphological changes of the spheroids, the cell viability, growth rate as well as the cytotoxic effect of electroporation (EP) with calcium chloride and bleomycin were evaluated with various drug concentrations. The results of CaEP and ECT both suggest a comparable dose-dependent reduction in cell viability and proliferation rate in all tested 2D cell lines and 3D tumor spheroids. These data point out that CaEP is an established anticancer treatment causing cell death by ATP depletion in in vitro and in vivo, representing an efficient alternative therapy with a lower cytotoxic potency for the local UM tumor control. Abstract Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is the combination of transient pore formation following electric pulse application with the administration of cytotoxic drugs, which enhances the cytotoxic effect of the applied agent due to membrane changes and permeabilization. Although EP represents an established therapeutic option for solid malignancies, recent advances shift to the investigation of non-cytotoxic agents, such as calcium, which can also induce cell death. The present study aims to evaluate the cytotoxic effect, the morphological changes in tumor spheroids, the effect on the cell viability, and the cell-specific growth rate following calcium electroporation (CaEP) in uveal melanoma (UM) 2D monolayer cell cultures as well as in 3D tumor spheroid models. The experiments were conducted in four cell lines, UM92.1, Mel270, and two primary UM cell lines, UPMD2 and UPMM3 (UPM). The 2D and 3D UM cell cultures were electroporated with eight rectangular pulses (100 µs pulse duration, 5 Hz repetition frequency) of a 1000 V/cm pulse strength alone or in combination with 0.11 mg/mL, 0.28 mg/mL, 0.55 mg/mL or 1.11 mg/mL calcium chloride or 1.0 µg/mL or 2.5 µg/mL bleomycin. The application of calcium chloride alone induced an ATP reduction only in the UM92.1 2D cell cultures. Calcium alone had no significant effect on ATP levels in all four UM spheroids. A significant decrease in the intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level was documented in all four 2D and 3D cell cultures for both CaEP as well as ECT with bleomycin. The results suggest a dose-dependent ATP depletion with a wide range of sensitivity among the tested UM cell lines, control groups, and the applied settings in both 2D monolayer cell cultures and 3D tumor spheroid models. The colony formation capacity of the cell lines after two weeks reduced significantly after CaEP only with 0.5 mg/mL and 1.1 mg/mL, whereas the same effect could be achieved with both applied bleomycin concentrations, 1.0 µg/mL and 2.5 µg/mL, for the ECT group. The specific growth rate on day 7 following CaEP was significantly reduced in UM92.1 cell lines with 0.5 and 1.1 mg/mL calcium chloride, while Mel270 showed a similar effect only after administration of 1.1 mg/mL. UM92.1 and Mel270 spheroids exhibited lower adhesion and density after CaEP on day three in comparison to UPM spheroids showing detachment after day 7 following treatment. CaEP and bleomycin electroporation significantly reduce cell viability at similar applied voltage settings. CaEP may be a feasible and inexpensive therapeutic option for the local tumor control with fewer side effects, in comparison to other chemotherapeutic agents, for the treatment of uveal melanoma. The limited effect on normal cells and the surrounding tissue has already been investigated, but further research is necessary to clarify the effect on the surrounding tissue and to facilitate its application in a clinical setting for the eye.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam M. Kraemer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufeland Str. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany; (M.M.K.); (T.T.); (U.B.-P.); (N.E.B.)
| | - Theodora Tsimpaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufeland Str. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany; (M.M.K.); (T.T.); (U.B.-P.); (N.E.B.)
| | - Utta Berchner-Pfannschmidt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufeland Str. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany; (M.M.K.); (T.T.); (U.B.-P.); (N.E.B.)
| | - Nikolaos E. Bechrakis
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufeland Str. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany; (M.M.K.); (T.T.); (U.B.-P.); (N.E.B.)
| | - Berthold Seitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrberger Str. 100, 66421 Homburg, Germany;
| | - Miltiadis Fiorentzis
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufeland Str. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany; (M.M.K.); (T.T.); (U.B.-P.); (N.E.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-723-2900
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Imran KM, Nagai-Singer MA, Brock RM, Alinezhadbalalami N, Davalos RV, Allen IC. Exploration of Novel Pathways Underlying Irreversible Electroporation Induced Anti-Tumor Immunity in Pancreatic Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:853779. [PMID: 35372046 PMCID: PMC8972192 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.853779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Advancements in medical sciences and technologies have significantly improved the survival of many cancers; however, pancreatic cancer remains a deadly diagnosis. This malignancy is often diagnosed late in the disease when metastases have already occurred. Additionally, the location of the pancreas near vital organs limits surgical candidacy, the tumor's immunosuppressive environment limits immunotherapy success, and it is highly resistant to radiation and chemotherapy. Hence, clinicians and patients alike need a treatment paradigm that reduces primary tumor burden, activates systemic anti-tumor immunity, and reverses the local immunosuppressive microenvironment to eventually clear distant metastases. Irreversible electroporation (IRE), a novel non-thermal tumor ablation technique, applies high-voltage ultra-short pulses to permeabilize targeted cell membranes and induce cell death. Progression with IRE technology and an array of research studies have shown that beyond tumor debulking, IRE can induce anti-tumor immune responses possibly through tumor neo-antigen release. However, the success of IRE treatment (i.e. full ablation and tumor recurrence) is variable. We believe that IRE treatment induces IFNγ expression, which then modulates immune checkpoint molecules and thus leads to tumor recurrence. This indicates a co-therapeutic use of IRE and immune checkpoint inhibitors as a promising treatment for pancreatic cancer patients. Here, we review the well-defined and speculated pathways involved in the immunostimulatory effects of IRE treatment for pancreatic cancer, as well as the regulatory pathways that may negate these anti-tumor responses. By defining these underlying mechanisms, future studies may identify improvements to systemic immune system engagement following local tumor ablation with IRE and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khan Mohammad Imran
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine and Health, Virginia Tech, Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Margaret A. Nagai-Singer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Rebecca M. Brock
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine and Health, Virginia Tech, Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Nastaran Alinezhadbalalami
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Rafael V. Davalos
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Irving Coy Allen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Mansourian M, Firoozabadi SMP, Hassan ZM. The investigation of Pulse-Modulated GSM-900 MHz electromagnetic field effects on the electrochemotherapy mechanisms in vivo. Electromagn Biol Med 2021; 41:71-79. [PMID: 34839760 DOI: 10.1080/15368378.2021.2006689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Electrochemotherapy (ECT) as a tumor treatment modality is approved for cutaneous and subcutaneous tumors. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of 900 MHz radiofrequency (RF) pulse-modulated by 217 Hz EMFs similar to those emitted by mobile phones on the mechanisms of ECT in vivo including: tumor hypoxia and immune system response, and on tumor volume.4 T1 cells were injected subcutaneously into the right flank of Balb/c mice. The mice were exposed to RF fields at specific absorption rate (SAR) 2 W/kg for 10 min/day and then treated with ECT. Two protocols of ECT were used: ((70 V/cm-5 kHz) and 70 V/cm-4 kHz)). Tumor hypoxia was analyzed through HIF-1α immuonohistochemistry assay. Interleukin 4 (IL-4) and IFN-γ levels were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique to evaluate immune system response. Also, tumors volume changes were measured for 24 days following the treatment. The results showed that pulse-modulated RF fields could increase hypoxia induced by ECT, significantly (about 13% in ECT (70 V/cm-5 kHz) and 11% in ECT (70 V/cm-4 kHz)). However, these fields did not have significant effect on immune system response (the levels of IL-4 and IFN-γ) and tumor volume changes induced by ECT. Our results indicated that pulse-modulated RF fields could not affect tumor volume changes in ECT with the frequency of 5 kHz and voltage of 70 V/cm efficacy in vivo. However, investigating the role of other environmental intervening factors on this protocol of ECT is recommended in further studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Mansourian
- Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - S M P Firoozabadi
- Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zuhair Mohammad Hassan
- Immunonology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kiełbik A, Szlasa W, Novickij V, Szewczyk A, Maciejewska M, Saczko J, Kulbacka J. Effects of high-frequency nanosecond pulses on prostate cancer cells. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15835. [PMID: 34349171 PMCID: PMC8339066 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95180-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Electroporation with pulsed electric fields show a potential to be applied as an experimental focal therapy of tumors. Sub-microsecond regime of electric pulses displays unique electrophysical features operative in cells and membranes. Recently, MHz compression of nanosecond pulses electric fields (nsPEFs) bursts proved to enhance the effectiveness of the therapy. High morbidity of prostate cancer (PCa) and risk of overtreatment associated with this malignancy call for new minimal-invasive treatment alternative. Herein we present the in vitro study for developing applications based on this new technology. In this study, we used flow cytometric analysis, cell viability assay, caspase activity analysis, wound healing assay, confocal microscopy study, and immunofluorescence to investigate the biological effect of high-frequency nsPEFs on PCa cells. Our results show that high-frequency nsPEFs induces the permeabilization and cell death of PCa cells. The cytotoxicity is significantly enhanced in MHz compression of pulses and with the presence of extracellular Ca2+. High-frequency nsPEFs trigger changes in PCa cells' cytoskeleton and their mobility. The presented data show a therapeutic potential of high-frequency nsPEFs in a PCa setting. The sub-microsecond regime of pulses can potentially be applied in nanosecond electroporation protocols for PCa treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksander Kiełbik
- grid.4495.c0000 0001 1090 049XMedical University Hospital, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wrocław, Poland ,grid.4495.c0000 0001 1090 049XDepartment of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Wojciech Szlasa
- grid.4495.c0000 0001 1090 049XFaculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Vitalij Novickij
- grid.9424.b0000 0004 1937 1776Institute of High Magnetic Fields, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Anna Szewczyk
- grid.4495.c0000 0001 1090 049XDepartment of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland ,grid.8505.80000 0001 1010 5103Department of Animal Developmental Biology, Institute of Experimental Biology, University of Wroclaw, 50-328 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Magdalena Maciejewska
- grid.413454.30000 0001 1958 0162Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Jolanta Saczko
- grid.4495.c0000 0001 1090 049XDepartment of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Julita Kulbacka
- grid.4495.c0000 0001 1090 049XDepartment of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Batista Napotnik T, Polajžer T, Miklavčič D. Cell death due to electroporation - A review. Bioelectrochemistry 2021; 141:107871. [PMID: 34147013 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2021.107871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Exposure of cells to high voltage electric pulses increases transiently membrane permeability through membrane electroporation. Electroporation can be reversible and is used in gene transfer and enhanced drug delivery but can also lead to cell death. Electroporation resulting in cell death (termed as irreversible electroporation) has been successfully used as a new non-thermal ablation method of soft tissue such as tumours or arrhythmogenic heart tissue. Even though the mechanisms of cell death can influence the outcome of electroporation-based treatments due to use of different electric pulse parameters and conditions, these are not elucidated yet. We review the mechanisms of cell death after electroporation reported in literature, cell injuries that may lead to cell death after electroporation and membrane repair mechanisms involved. The knowledge of membrane repair and cell death mechanisms after cell exposure to electric pulses, targets of electric field in cells need to be identified to optimize existing and develop of new electroporation-based techniques used in medicine, biotechnology, and food technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tina Batista Napotnik
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Tržaška cesta 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tamara Polajžer
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Tržaška cesta 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Damijan Miklavčič
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Tržaška cesta 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yu B, Zhang W, Kwak K, Choi H, Kim DH. Electric Pulse Responsive Magnetic Nanoclusters Loaded with Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase Inhibitor for Synergistic Immuno-Ablation Cancer Therapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:54415-54425. [PMID: 33237729 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c15679] [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: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
An overlay of local ablation and immunotherapies could be one of the promising approaches to treat solid tumors, but finding the synergistic combination is still challenging with immune tolerance. Herein, electric pulse responsive iron-oxide-nanocube clusters (IONCs) loaded with indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase inhibitors (IDOi) are prepared for the enhancement of irreversible electroporation (IRE) cell killing and modulation of the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIM). IDOi-loaded-IONCs (IDOi-IONCs) show highly responsive movement upon the application of IRE electric pulses inducing local magnetic fields. In vitro and in vivo IRE cell-killing efficiency are significantly enhanced by the IDOi-IONCs. The IRE with IDOi-IONCs also triggers IDOi release from IONCs for TIM modulation. The enhanced cell death and local IDOi release of the IRE with IDOi-IONCs demonstrate a synergistic anticancer effect in vivo with overturning the TIM. The increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells and the elevated ratio of CD8+ T cells to regulatory T cells are confirmed after the IRE with IDOi-IONCs. Further, synergistic interaction between IRE and IDOi-modulated TIM resulted in enhanced elimination of primary and secondary tumors. This proof-of-concept work illustrates a robust modality to guide immune-modulating nanoparticle-mediated immuno-ablation cancer therapies that can be easily tailored to improve its therapeutic outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yu
- Department of Radiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
| | - Wentao Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Kijung Kwak
- Department of Radiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Hyunjun Choi
- Department of Radiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, United States
| | - Dong-Hyun Kim
- Department of Radiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kiełbik A, Szlasa W, Michel O, Szewczyk A, Tarek M, Saczko J, Kulbacka J. In Vitro Study of Calcium Microsecond Electroporation of Prostate Adenocarcinoma Cells. Molecules 2020; 25:E5406. [PMID: 33227916 PMCID: PMC7699241 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25225406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Electroporation, applied as a non-thermal ablation method has proven to be effective for focal prostate treatment. In this study, we performed pre-clinical research, which aims at exploring the specific impact of this so-called calcium electroporation on prostate cancer. First, in an in-vitro study of DU 145 cell lines, microsecond electroporation (μsEP) parameters were optimized. We determined hence the voltage that provides both high permeability and viability of these prostate cancer cells. Subsequently, we compared the effect of μsEP on cells' viability with and without calcium administration. For high-voltage pulses, the cell death's mechanism was evaluated using flow-cytometry and confocal laser microscopy. For lower-voltage pulses, the influence of electroporation on prostate cancer cell mobility was studied using scratch assays. Additionally, we applied calcium-binding fluorescence dye (Fluo-8) to observe the calcium uptake dynamic with the fluorescence microscopy. Moreover, the molecular dynamics simulation visualized the process of calcium ions inflow during μsEP. According to our results calcium electroporation significantly decreases the cells viability by promoting apoptosis. Furthermore, our data shows that the application of pulsed electric fields disassembles the actin cytoskeleton and influences the prostate cancer cells' mobility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksander Kiełbik
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.K.); (W.S.)
| | - Wojciech Szlasa
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.K.); (W.S.)
| | - Olga Michel
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (O.M.); (A.S.); (J.S.)
| | - Anna Szewczyk
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (O.M.); (A.S.); (J.S.)
- Department of Animal Developmental Biology, Institute of Experimental Biology, University of Wroclaw, 50-328 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Mounir Tarek
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, LPCT, F-54000 Nancy, France;
| | - Jolanta Saczko
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (O.M.); (A.S.); (J.S.)
| | - Julita Kulbacka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (O.M.); (A.S.); (J.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rols MP, Golzio M, Kolosnjaj-Tabi J. Electric Field Based Therapies in Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113420. [PMID: 33218021 PMCID: PMC7698628 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
|
16
|
Novickij V, Zinkevičienė A, Malyško V, Novickij J, Kulbacka J, Rembialkowska N, Girkontaitė I. Bioluminescence as a sensitive electroporation indicator in sub-microsecond and microsecond range of electrical pulses. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY B-BIOLOGY 2020; 213:112066. [PMID: 33142215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2020.112066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The cell membrane permeabilization in electroporation studies is usually quantified using fluorescent markers such as propidium iodide (PI) or YO-PRO, while Chinese Hamster Ovary cell line frequently serves as a model. In this work, as an alternative, we propose a sensitive methodology for detection and analysis of electroporation phenomenon based on bioluminescence. Luminescent mice myeloma SP2/0 cells (transfected using Luciferase-pcDNA3 plasmid) were used as a cell model. Electroporation has been studied using the 0.1-5 μs × 250 and 100 μs × 1-8 pulsing protocols in 1-2.5 kV/cm PEF range. It was shown that the bioluminescence response is dependent on the cell permeabilization state and can be effectively used to detect even weak permeabilization. During saturated permeabilization the methodology accurately predicts the losses of cell viability due to irreversible electroporation. The results have been superpositioned with permeabilization and pore resealing (1 h post-treatment) data using PI. Also, the viability of the cells was evaluated. Lastly, the SP2/0 tumors have been developed in BALB/C mice and the methodology has been tested in vivo using electrochemotherapy with bleomycin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vitalij Novickij
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Auksė Zinkevičienė
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Veronika Malyško
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Jurij Novickij
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Julita Kulbacka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Nina Rembialkowska
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Irutė Girkontaitė
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology, Vilnius, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Massaro EK, Goswami I, Verbridge SS, von Spakovsky MR. Electro-chemo-mechanical model to investigate multi-pulse electric-field-driven integrin clustering. Bioelectrochemistry 2020; 137:107638. [PMID: 33160180 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2020.107638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The effect of pulsed electric fields (PEFs) on transmembrane proteins is not fully understood; how do chemo-mechanical cues in the microenvironment mediate the electric field sensing by these proteins? To answer this key gap in knowledge, we have developed a kinetic Monte Carlo statistical model of the integrin proteins that integrates three components of the morphogenetic field (i.e., chemical, mechanical, and electrical cues). Specifically, the model incorporates the mechanical stiffness of the cell membrane, the ligand density of the extracellular environment, the glycocalyx stiffness, thermal Brownian motion, and electric field induced diffusion. The effects of both steady-state electric fields and transient PEF pulse trains on integrin clustering are studied. Our results reveal that electric-field-driven integrin clustering is mediated by membrane stiffness and ligand density. In addition, we explore the effects of PEF pulse-train parameters (amplitude, polarity, and pulse-width) on integrin clustering. In summary, we demonstrate a computational methodology to incorporate experimental data and simulate integrin clustering when exposed to PEFs for time-scales comparable to experiments (seconds-minutes). Thus, we propose a blueprint for understanding PEF/electric field effects on protein induced signaling and highlight key impediments to incorporating experimental values into computational models such as the kinetic Monte Carlo method.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evan K Massaro
- Center for Computational Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, MA, USA
| | - Ishan Goswami
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, University of California Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Scott S Verbridge
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Applied Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Michael R von Spakovsky
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kiełbik A, Szlasa W, Saczko J, Kulbacka J. Electroporation-Based Treatments in Urology. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2208. [PMID: 32784598 PMCID: PMC7465806 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082208] [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: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The observation that an application of a pulsed electric field (PEF) resulted in an increased permeability of the cell membrane has led to the discovery of the phenomenon called electroporation (EP). Depending on the parameters of the electric current and cell features, electroporation can be either reversible or irreversible. The irreversible electroporation (IRE) found its use in urology as a non-thermal ablative method of prostate and renal cancer. As its mechanism is based on the permeabilization of cell membrane phospholipids, IRE (as well as other treatments based on EP) provides selectivity sparing extracellular proteins and matrix. Reversible EP enables the transfer of genes, drugs, and small exogenous proteins. In clinical practice, reversible EP can locally increase the uptake of cytotoxic drugs such as cisplatin and bleomycin. This approach is known as electrochemotherapy (ECT). Few in vivo and in vitro trials of ECT have been performed on urological cancers. EP provides the possibility of transmission of genes across the cell membrane. As the protocols of gene electrotransfer (GET) over the last few years have improved, EP has become a well-known technique for non-viral cell transfection. GET involves DNA transfection directly to the cancer or the host skin and muscle tissue. Among urological cancers, the GET of several plasmids encoding prostate cancer antigens has been investigated in clinical trials. This review brings into discussion the underlying mechanism of EP and an overview of the latest progress and development perspectives of EP-based treatments in urology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksander Kiełbik
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.K.); (W.S.)
| | - Wojciech Szlasa
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.K.); (W.S.)
| | - Jolanta Saczko
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Julita Kulbacka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Brock RM, Beitel-White N, Davalos RV, Allen IC. Starting a Fire Without Flame: The Induction of Cell Death and Inflammation in Electroporation-Based Tumor Ablation Strategies. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1235. [PMID: 32850371 PMCID: PMC7399335 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
New therapeutic strategies and paradigms are direly needed for the treatment of cancer. While the surgical removal of tumors is favored in most cancer treatment plans, resection options are often limited based on tumor localization. Over the last two decades, multiple tumor ablation strategies have emerged as promising stand-alone or combination therapeutic options for patients. These strategies are often employed to treat tumors in areas where surgical resection is not possible or where chemotherapeutics have proven ineffective. The type of cell death induced by the ablation modality is a critical aspect of therapeutic success that can impact the efficacy of the treatment and systemic anti-tumor immune system responses. Electroporation-based ablation technologies include electrochemotherapy, irreversible electroporation, and other modalities that rely on pulsed electric fields to create pores in cell membranes. These pores can either be reversible or irreversible depending on the electric field parameters and can induce cell death either alone or in combination with a therapeutic agent. However, there have been many controversial findings among these technologies as to the cell death type initiated, from apoptosis to pyroptosis. As cell death mechanisms can impact treatment side effects and efficacy, we review the main types of cell death induced by electroporation-based treatments and summarize the impact of these mechanisms on treatment response. We also discuss potential reasons behind the variability of findings such as the similarities between cell death pathways, differences between cell-types, and the variation in electric field strength across the treatment area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. Brock
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Natalie Beitel-White
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Rafael V. Davalos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Irving C. Allen
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Roanoke, VA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Science, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Das B, Shrirao A, Golberg A, Berthiaume F, Schloss R, Yarmush ML. Differential Cell Death and Regrowth of Dermal Fibroblasts and Keratinocytes After Application of Pulsed Electric Fields. Bioelectricity 2020; 2:175-185. [PMID: 34471845 PMCID: PMC8370327 DOI: 10.1089/bioe.2020.0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: High-powered pulsed electric fields (PEF) may be used for tissue debridement and disinfection, while lower PEF intensities may stimulate beneficial cellular responses for wound healing. We investigated the dual effects of nonuniform PEF on cellular death and stimulation. Methods: Dermal fibroblast or keratinocyte monolayers were exposed to PEF induced by two needle electrodes (2 mm apart). Voltages (100-600 V; 1 Hz; 70 micros pulse width; 90 pulses/cycle) were applied between the two electrodes. Controls consisted of similar monolayers subjected to a scratch mechanical injury. Results: Cell growth and closure of the cell-free gap was faster in PEF-treated cell monolayers versus scratched ones. Media conditioned from cells pre-exposed to PEF, when applied to responder cells, stimulated greater proliferation than media from scratched monolayers. Conclusions: PEF treatment causes the release of soluble factors that promote cell growth, and thus may play a role in the accelerated healing of wounds post PEF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bodhisatwa Das
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Anil Shrirao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Alexander Golberg
- Department of Environmental Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Francois Berthiaume
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Rene Schloss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Martin L. Yarmush
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Center for Engineering in Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
A Comprehensive Review of Calcium Electroporation -A Novel Cancer Treatment Modality. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12020290. [PMID: 31991784 PMCID: PMC7073222 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12020290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium electroporation is a potential novel anti-cancer treatment where high calcium concentrations are introduced into cells by electroporation, a method where short, high voltage pulses induce transient permeabilisation of the plasma membrane allowing passage of molecules into the cytosol. Calcium is a tightly regulated, ubiquitous second messenger involved in many cellular processes including cell death. Electroporation increases calcium uptake leading to acute and severe ATP depletion associated with cancer cell death. This comprehensive review describes published data about calcium electroporation applied in vitro, in vivo, and clinically from the first publication in 2012. Calcium electroporation has been shown to be a safe and efficient anti-cancer treatment in clinical studies with cutaneous metastases and recurrent head and neck cancer. Normal cells have been shown to be less affected by calcium electroporation than cancer cells and this difference might be partly induced by differences in membrane repair, expression of calcium transporters, and cellular structural changes. Interestingly, both clinical data and preclinical studies have indicated a systemic immune response induced by calcium electroporation. New cancer treatments are needed, and calcium electroporation represents an inexpensive and efficient treatment with few side effects, that could potentially be used worldwide and for different tumor types.
Collapse
|