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Barolo L, Gigante Y, Mautone L, Ghirga S, Soloperto A, Giorgi A, Ghirga F, Pitea M, Incocciati A, Mura F, Ruocco G, Boffi A, Baiocco P, Di Angelantonio S. Ferritin nanocage-enabled detection of pathological tau in living human retinal cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11533. [PMID: 38773170 PMCID: PMC11109090 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62188-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Tauopathies, including Alzheimer's disease and Frontotemporal Dementia, are debilitating neurodegenerative disorders marked by cognitive decline. Despite extensive research, achieving effective treatments and significant symptom management remains challenging. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies, with hyperphosphorylated protein units and tau oligomers serving as reliable biomarkers for these conditions. This study introduces a novel approach using nanotechnology to enhance the diagnostic process for tauopathies. We developed humanized ferritin nanocages, a novel nanoscale delivery system, designed to encapsulate and transport a tau-specific fluorophore, BT1, into human retinal cells for detecting neurofibrillary tangles in retinal tissue, a key marker of tauopathies. The delivery of BT1 into living cells was successfully achieved through these nanocages, demonstrating efficient encapsulation and delivery into retinal cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Our experiments confirmed the colocalization of BT1 with pathological forms of tau in living retinal cells, highlighting the method's potential in identifying tauopathies. Using ferritin nanocages for BT1 delivery represents a significant contribution to nanobiotechnology, particularly in neurodegenerative disease diagnostics. This method offers a promising tool for the early detection of tau tangles in retinal tissue, with significant implications for improving the diagnosis and management of tauopathies. This study exemplifies the integration of nanotechnology with biomedical science, expanding the frontiers of nanomedicine and diagnostic techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Barolo
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Ylenia Gigante
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
- D-Tails Srl BC, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenza Mautone
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Ghirga
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
- D-Tails Srl BC, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Soloperto
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Giorgi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Ghirga
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza-University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Pitea
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
- D-Tails Srl BC, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessio Incocciati
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Mura
- Research Center on Nanotechnologies Applied to Engineering of Sapienza (CNIS), Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Ruocco
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Department of Physics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Boffi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
- D-Tails Srl BC, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Baiocco
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy.
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvia Di Angelantonio
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy.
- D-Tails Srl BC, 00165, Rome, Italy.
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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Marrocco F, Falvo E, Mosca L, Tisci G, Arcovito A, Reccagni A, Limatola C, Bernardini R, Ceci P, D'Alessandro G, Colotti G. Nose-to-brain selective drug delivery to glioma via ferritin-based nanovectors reduces tumor growth and improves survival rate. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:262. [PMID: 38615026 PMCID: PMC11016100 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06653-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Gliomas are among the most fatal tumors, and the available therapeutic options are very limited. Additionally, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) prevents most drugs from entering the brain. We designed and produced a ferritin-based stimuli-sensitive nanocarrier with high biocompatibility and water solubility. It can incorporate high amounts of the potent topoisomerase 1 inhibitor Genz-644282. Here, we show that this nanocarrier, named The-0504, can cross the BBB and specifically deliver the payload to gliomas that express high amounts of the ferritin/transferrin receptor TfR1 (CD71). Intranasal or intravenous administration of The-0504 both reduce tumor growth and improve the survival rate of glioma-bearing mice. However, nose-to-brain administration is a simpler and less invasive route that may spare most of the healthy tissues compared to intravenous injections. For this reason, the data reported here could pave the way towards a new, safe, and direct ferritin-based drug delivery method for brain diseases, especially brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Marrocco
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Falvo
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council IBPM-CNR, Rome, Italy
| | - Luciana Mosca
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giada Tisci
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arcovito
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli", IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Alice Reccagni
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Limatola
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Laboratory affiliated to Institute 17 Pasteur Italia, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, IS, Italy
| | - Roberta Bernardini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e Medicina Traslazionale Università degli Studi di Roma "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Ceci
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council IBPM-CNR, Rome, Italy.
- Thena Biotech, Latina, Italy.
| | - Giuseppina D'Alessandro
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, IS, Italy.
| | - Gianni Colotti
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council IBPM-CNR, Rome, Italy.
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Li Y, Gao H, Nepovimova E, Wu Q, Adam V, Kuca K. Recombinant ferritins for multimodal nanomedicine. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:2219868. [PMID: 37263586 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2219868] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In all living organisms, ferritins are a group of proteins important for maintaining iron homeostasis. Increasing amount of studies has shown that recombinant ferritins can be widely used in multimodal nanomedicine, especially for anticancer treatment and vaccination. Recombinant particles prepared by fusing viral proteins and ferritin subunits produce a better immune response and higher antibody titres. Moreover, actively-targeted ferritin nanoparticles can recognise receptors and deliver natural or chemical drugs specifically to the tumour tissue. In addition, ferritin-linked or loaded with contrast agents or fluorescent dyes can be used as multimodal particles useful cancer theranostics. In this review, we fully summarised the unitisation of recombinant ferritins in multimodal nanomedicine. The research progress of using recombinant ferritins as nanovaccines, nanozymes, and bioengineered nanocarriers for targeted therapy and bioimaging is emphasised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihao Li
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Haoyu Gao
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Eugenie Nepovimova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Qinghua Wu
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtech Adam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
- Biomedical Research Center, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
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Fracasso G, Falvo E, Tisci G, Sala G, Colotti G, Cingarlini S, Tito C, Bibbo S, Frusteri C, Tremante E, Giordani E, Giacomini P, Ceci P. Widespread in vivo efficacy of The-0504: A conditionally-activatable nanoferritin for tumor-agnostic targeting of CD71-expressing cancers. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20770. [PMID: 37860543 PMCID: PMC10582389 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer is still among the leading causes of death all over the world. Improving chemotherapy and minimizing associated toxicities are major unmet medical needs. Recently, we provided a preliminary preclinical evaluation of a human ferritin (HFt)-based drug carrier (The-0504) that selectively delivers the wide-spectrum topoisomerase I inhibitor Genz-644282 to CD71-expressing tumors. The-0504 has so far been evaluated on four different human tumor xenotransplant models (breast, colorectal, pancreatic and liver cancers). Methods Herein, we extend our studies, by: (a) testing DNA damage in vitro, (b) treating eight additional tumor xenograft models in vivo with The-0504; (c) performing pharmacokinetic (PK) studies in rats; and (d) evaluating The-0504 anti-tumor xenotransplant efficacy by optimizing its administration schedule based on PK considerations. Results Immunofluorescence demonstrated that The-0504 induces foci expressing the DNA double-strand break marker γH2AX. Expression increases up to 4-fold and is more persistent as compared to free Genz-644282. In vivo studies confirmed a remarkable anti-tumor activity of The-0504, resulting in tumor eradication in most murine xenograft models, regardless of embryological origin (e.g. epithelial, mesenchymal or neuroendocrine), and molecular subtypes. PK studies demonstrated a long persistence of The-0504 in rat serum (half-life of about 40 h as compared to 15 h of the free drug), with a 400-fold increase in peak concentrations as compared to the free drug. On this basis, we reduced The-0504 administration frequency from twice to once per week, with no appreciable loss in therapeutic efficacy in mice. Conclusion The results presented here confirm that The-0504 is highly active against several human tumor xenotransplants, even when administered less frequently than previously reported. The-0504 may be a good candidate for further clinical development in a tumor histotype-agnostic setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Fracasso
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Falvo
- CNR–National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Giada Tisci
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sala
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), Chieti, Italy
| | - Gianni Colotti
- CNR–National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Cingarlini
- Section of Oncology, Verona University Hospital Trust, Verona, Italy
| | - Claudia Tito
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Sandra Bibbo
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Elisa Tremante
- Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, UOC Translational Oncology Research, IRCCS National Cancer Institute Regina Elena, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Giordani
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCCS National Cancer Institute Regina Elena, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizio Giacomini
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCCS National Cancer Institute Regina Elena, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Ceci
- CNR–National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, 00185, Rome, Italy
- Thena Biotech, Latina, Italy
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Wang C, Liu Q, Huang X, Zhuang J. Ferritin nanocages: a versatile platform for nanozyme design. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:4153-4170. [PMID: 37158014 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb00192j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Nanozymes are a class of nanomaterials with enzyme-like activities and have attracted increasing attention due to their potential applications in biomedicine. However, nanozyme design incorporating the desired properties remains challenging. Natural or genetically engineered protein scaffolds, such as ferritin nanocages, have emerged as a promising platform for nanozyme design due to their unique protein structure, natural biomineralization capacity, self-assembly properties, and high biocompatibility. In this review, we highlight the intrinsic properties of ferritin nanocages, especially for nanozyme design. We also discuss the advantages of genetically engineered ferritin in the versatile design of nanozymes over natural ferritin. Additionally, we summarize the bioapplications of ferritin-based nanozymes based on their enzyme-mimicking activities. In this perspective, we mainly provide potential insights into the utilization of ferritin nanocages for nanozyme design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Wang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials for the Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, and Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
| | - Qiqi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials for the Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, and Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
| | - Xinglu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials for the Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, and Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
| | - Jie Zhuang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
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Kuruppu AI, Turyanska L, Bradshaw TD, Manickam S, Galhena BP, Paranagama P, De Silva R. Apoferritin and Dps as drug delivery vehicles: Some selected examples in oncology. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2022; 1866:130067. [PMID: 34896255 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2021.130067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ideal nanoparticle should be able to encapsulate either pharmaceutical agents or imaging probes so that it could treat or image clinical tumours by targeting the cancer site efficiently. Further, it would be an added advantage if it demonstrates: small size, built in targeting, biocompatibility and biodegradability. Ferritin, which is an endogenous self-assembling protein, stores iron and plays a role in iron homeostasis. When iron atoms are removed apoferritin (AFt) is formed which consists of a hollow shell where it can be used to load guest molecules. Due to its unique architecture, AFt has been investigated as a versatile carrier for tumour theranostic applications. DNA-binding protein from starved cells (Dps), which also belongs to the ferritin family, is a protein found only in prokaryotes. It is used to store iron and protect chromosomes from oxidative damage; because of its architecture, Dps could also be used as a delivery vehicle. CONCLUSIONS Both these nano particles are promising in the field of oncology, especially due to their stability, solubility and biocompatibility features. Further their exterior surface can be modified for better tumour-targeting ability. More studies, are warranted to determine the immunogenicity, biodistribution, and clearance from the body. GENERAL PERSPECTIVE This review discusses a few selected examples of the remarkable in vitro and in vivo studies that have been carried out in the recent past with the use of AFt and Dps in targeting and delivery of various pharmaceutical agents, natural products and imaging probes in the field of oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anchala I Kuruppu
- Institute for Combinatorial Advanced Research & Education, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka.
| | | | | | - Sivakumar Manickam
- Petroleum and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Brunei, Brunei Darussalam
| | - Bandula Prasanna Galhena
- Department Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Priyani Paranagama
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka; Institute of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Ranil De Silva
- Institute for Combinatorial Advanced Research & Education, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka
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Conti G, Pitea M, Ossanna R, Opri R, Tisci G, Falvo E, Innamorati G, Ghanem E, Sbarbati A, Ceci P, Fracasso G. Mitoxantrone-Loaded Nanoferritin Slows Tumor Growth and Improves the Overall Survival Rate in a Subcutaneous Pancreatic Cancer Mouse Model. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111622. [PMID: 34829851 PMCID: PMC8615572 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) represents an intriguing topic for researchers. To date, the prognosis of metastasized PC is poor with just 7% of patients exceeding a five-year survival period. Thus, molecular modifications of existing drugs should be developed to change the course of the disease. Our previously generated nanocages of Mitoxantrone (MIT) encapsulated in human H-chain Ferritin (HFt), designated as HFt-MP-PASE-MIT, has shown excellent tumor distribution and extended serum half-life meriting further investigation for PC treatment. Thus, in this study, we used the same nano-formulation to test its cytotoxicity using both in vitro and in vivo assays. Interestingly, both encapsulated and free-MIT drugs demonstrated similar killing capabilities on PaCa44 cell line. Conversely, in vivo assessment in a subcutaneous PaCa44 tumor model of PC demonstrated a remarkable capability for encapsulated MIT to control tumor growth and improve mouse survival with a median survival rate of 65 vs. 33 days for loaded and free-MIT, respectively. Interestingly, throughout the course of mice treatment, MIT encapsulation did not present any adverse side effects as confirmed by histological analysis of various murine tissue organs and body mass weights. Our results are promising and pave the way to effective PC targeted chemotherapy using our HFt nanodelivery platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giamaica Conti
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (G.C.); (R.O.); (A.S.)
| | - Martina Pitea
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, University Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (G.T.)
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Ossanna
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (G.C.); (R.O.); (A.S.)
| | - Roberta Opri
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Giada Tisci
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, University Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (G.T.)
| | - Elisabetta Falvo
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, CNR—National Research Council of Italy, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giulio Innamorati
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, Section of Surgery, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Esther Ghanem
- Department of Sciences, Notre Dame University-Louaize, Zouk Mosbeh P.O. Box 72, Lebanon;
| | - Andrea Sbarbati
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (G.C.); (R.O.); (A.S.)
| | - Pierpaolo Ceci
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, CNR—National Research Council of Italy, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: (P.C.); (G.F.); Tel.: +39-06-4991-0761 (P.C.); +39-04-5812-6449 (G.F.)
| | - Giulio Fracasso
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
- Correspondence: (P.C.); (G.F.); Tel.: +39-06-4991-0761 (P.C.); +39-04-5812-6449 (G.F.)
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Sun X, Hong Y, Gong Y, Zheng S, Xie D. Bioengineered Ferritin Nanocarriers for Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7023. [PMID: 34209892 PMCID: PMC8268655 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ferritin naturally exists in most organisms and can specifically recognize the transferrin 1 receptor (TfR1), which is generally highly expressed on various types of tumor cells. The pH dependent reversible assembling and disassembling property of ferritin renders it as a suitable candidate for encapsulating a variety of anticancer drugs and imaging probes. Ferritins external surface is chemically and genetically modifiable which can serve as attachment site for tumor specific targeting peptides or moieties. Moreover, the biological origin of these protein cages makes it a biocompatible nanocarrier that stabilizes and protects the enclosed particles from the external environment without provoking any toxic or immunogenic responses. Recent studies, further establish ferritin as a multifunctional nanocarrier for targeted cancer chemotherapy and phototherapy. In this review, we introduce the favorable characteristics of ferritin drug carriers, the specific targeted surface modification and a multifunctional nanocarriers combined chemotherapy with phototherapy for tumor treatment. Taken together, ferritin is a potential ideal base of engineered nanoparticles for tumor therapy and still needs to explore more on its way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanrong Sun
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; (Y.H.); (Y.G.); (S.Z.); (D.X.)
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9
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Falvo E, Damiani V, Conti G, Boschi F, Messana K, Giacomini P, Milella M, De Laurenzi V, Morea V, Sala G, Fracasso G, Ceci P. High activity and low toxicity of a novel CD71-targeting nanotherapeutic named The-0504 on preclinical models of several human aggressive tumors. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:63. [PMID: 33568214 PMCID: PMC7877078 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-01851-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Ferritin receptor (CD71) is an example of a very attractive cancer target, since it is highly expressed in virtually all tumor types, including metastatic loci. However, this target can be considered to be inaccessible to conventional target therapies, due to its presence in many healthy tissues. Here, we describe the preclinical evaluation of a tumor proteases-activatable human ferritin (HFt)-based drug carrier (The-0504) that is able to selectively deliver the wide-spectrum topoisomerase I inhibitor Genz-644282 to CD71-expressing tumors, preventing the limiting toxic effects associated with CD71-targeting therapies. Methods CD71 expression was evaluated using flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry techniques. The-0504 antiproliferative activity towards several cancer cell lines was assessed in vitro. The-0504 antitumor efficacy and survival benefit were evaluated in different human tumors, which had been grown either as xenografts or patient-derived xenografts in mice. The-0504 toxicology profile was investigated in multiple-cycle repeat-dose study in rodents. Results In vitro studies indicate that The-0504 is highly specific for CD71 expressing cells, and that there is a relationship between CD71 levels and The-0504 anticancer activity. In vivo treatments with The-0504 showed a remarkable efficacy, eradicating several human tumors of very diverse and aggressive histotypes, such as pancreas, liver and colorectal carcinomas, and triple-negative breast cancer. Conclusions Durable disease-free survival, persistent antitumor responses after discontinuation of treatment and favorable toxicology profile make The-0504 an ideal candidate for clinical development as a novel, CD71-targeted, low-toxicity alternative to chemotherapy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-01851-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Falvo
- CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Rome, Italy.
| | - Verena Damiani
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), Department of Medical Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giamaica Conti
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Boschi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Katia Messana
- IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Oncogenomics and Epigenetics, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizio Giacomini
- IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Oncogenomics and Epigenetics, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Milella
- Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata (AOUI), Verona, Italy
| | - Vincenzo De Laurenzi
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), Department of Medical Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Veronica Morea
- CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sala
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), Department of Medical Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giulio Fracasso
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Pierpaolo Ceci
- CNR - National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Rome, Italy.,Thena Biotech, Latina, Italy
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Silva F, Sitia L, Allevi R, Bonizzi A, Sevieri M, Morasso C, Truffi M, Corsi F, Mazzucchelli S. Combined Method to Remove Endotoxins from Protein Nanocages for Drug Delivery Applications: The Case of Human Ferritin. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13020229. [PMID: 33562060 PMCID: PMC7915212 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13020229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein nanocages represent an emerging candidate among nanoscaled delivery systems. Indeed, they display unique features that proved to be very interesting from the nanotechnological point of view such as uniform structure, stability in biological fluids, suitability for surface modification to insert targeting moieties and loading with different drugs and dyes. However, one of the main concerns regards the production as recombinant proteins in E. coli, which leads to a product with high endotoxin contamination, resulting in nanocage immunogenicity and pyrogenicity. Indeed, a main challenge in the development of protein-based nanoparticles is finding effective procedures to remove endotoxins without affecting protein stability, since every intravenous injectable formulation that should be assessed in preclinical and clinical phase studies should display endotoxins concentration below the admitted limit of 5 EU/kg. Different strategies could be employed to achieve such a result, either by using affinity chromatography or detergents. However, these strategies are not applicable to protein nanocages as such and require implementations. Here we propose a combined protocol to remove bacterial endotoxins from nanocages of human H-ferritin, which is one of the most studied and most promising protein-based drug delivery systems. This protocol couples the affinity purification with the Endotrap HD resin to a treatment with Triton X-114. Exploiting this protocol, we were able to obtain excellent levels of purity maintaining good protein recovery rates, without affecting nanocage interactions with target cells. Indeed, binding assay and confocal microscopy experiments confirm that purified H-ferritin retains its capability to specifically recognize cancer cells. This procedure allowed to obtain injectable formulations, which is preliminary to move to a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Silva
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche “L. Sacco”, Università di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.S.); (L.S.); (R.A.); (A.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Leopoldo Sitia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche “L. Sacco”, Università di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.S.); (L.S.); (R.A.); (A.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Raffaele Allevi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche “L. Sacco”, Università di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.S.); (L.S.); (R.A.); (A.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Arianna Bonizzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche “L. Sacco”, Università di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.S.); (L.S.); (R.A.); (A.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Marta Sevieri
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche “L. Sacco”, Università di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.S.); (L.S.); (R.A.); (A.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Carlo Morasso
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.M.); (M.T.)
| | - Marta Truffi
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.M.); (M.T.)
| | - Fabio Corsi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche “L. Sacco”, Università di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.S.); (L.S.); (R.A.); (A.B.); (M.S.)
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.M.); (M.T.)
- Correspondence: (F.C.); (S.M.)
| | - Serena Mazzucchelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche “L. Sacco”, Università di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.S.); (L.S.); (R.A.); (A.B.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: (F.C.); (S.M.)
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