An Iron Shield to Protect Epigallocatehin-3-Gallate from Degradation: Multifunctional Self-Assembled Iron Oxide Nanocarrier Enhances Protein Kinase CK2 Intracellular Targeting and Inhibition

CK2: The master regulator in tumor immune-microenvironment - A crucial target in oncotherapy

A constitutively active serine/threonine kinase, casein kinase 2 (CK2) is involved in several physiological functions, such as DNA repair, apoptosis, and cell cycle control. New research emphasizes how critical CK2 is to the immune system's dysregulation in the tumor immune-microenvironment (TIME). The inhibition of immunological responses, including the downregulation of immune effector cells and the elevation of immunosuppressive proteins that aid in the development of tumor and immune evasion, has been linked to CK2 overexpression. CK2 maintains an immunosuppressive milieu that impedes anti-tumor immunity by encouraging the expressions and activities of immune checkpoint markers, regulating cytokines release, and boosting immune-suppressive cells such as regulatory T cells (Tregs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) to maintain immune evasion. It is a promising target for cancer treatment due to its complex role in immune regulation and oncogenic pathways. In this study, we address the therapeutic perspectives of targeting CK2 in oncotherapy and investigate the mechanisms by which it controls immunological responses in the TME. This review, comprehending the function of CK2 in immune suppression can facilitate the creation of innovative treatment approaches aimed at augmenting anti-tumor immunity and enhancing immunotherapy effectiveness.

Is Bacillus cytotoxicus from edible insects a threat?

Bacillus cytotoxicus is considered a potential emerging foodborne pathogen that has been under investigation in recent years. Most studies have focused on strains from vegetables, particularly potato products, but there is limited information on strains from other food sources. This study addresses the current research gap by investigating the genomic and phenotypic features of B. cytotoxicus isolated from edible insects. The whole genomes and key phenotypic traits of 20 strains isolated from edible insects were investigated. The comparative genome analysis also included 44 available genomes from other sources to identify possible genetic links and the mosaicism of virulence profiles (VP) and antimicrobial resistance genes (AMR). B. cytotoxicus isolated from edible insects showed marked thermotolerance, when vegetative forms could grow at 50-60 °C and survive at 65 °C and exhibited marked proteolytic activities, even at higher temperatures. The heterogeneous phenotypes observed suggest potential issues with defining suitable protocols for isolation and identification in this food matrix. Despite the limited genomic diversity observed, it was possible to identify links between isolates, demonstrating the co-isolation of different genomes/phenotypes from various insect samples and suggesting trade links between insect companies and the persistence of certain strains. A genomic comparison suggested segregating strains from edible insects with similar VP and AMR profiles. These findings indicate a degree of adaptation to different food niches, with strains from insects or insect-based products differing partially from those isolated from vegetable sources, showing possible associations with their respective food environments. The survival advantage conferred by thermotolerance underscores the need to assess the presence of these spore-forming bacteria carefully and to calibrate treatments and processes, to address the emerging risk posed by this pathogen and its implications for food safety.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate at the nanoscale: a new strategy for cancer treatment

CONTEXT

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the predominant catechin in green tea, has shown the potential to combat various types of cancer cells through its ability to modulate multiple signaling pathways. However, its low bioavailability and rapid degradation hinder its clinical application.

OBJECTIVE

This review explores the potential of nanoencapsulation to enhance the stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy of EGCG in cancer treatment.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed database from 2019 to the present, using 'epigallocatechin gallate', 'EGCG', and 'nanoparticles' as search terms to identify pertinent literature. This review examines recent nano-engineering technology advancements that encapsulate EGCG within various nanocarriers. The focus was on evaluating the types of nanoparticles used, their synthesis methods, and the technologies applied to optimize drug delivery, diagnostic capabilities, and therapeutic outcomes.

RESULTS

Nanoparticles improve the physicochemical stability and pharmacokinetics of EGCG, leading to enhanced therapeutic outcomes in cancer treatment. Nanoencapsulation allows for targeted drug delivery, controlled release, enhanced cellular uptake, and reduced premature degradation of EGCG. The studies highlighted include those where EGCG-loaded nanoparticles significantly inhibited tumor growth in various models, demonstrating enhanced penetration and efficacy through active targeting mechanisms.

CONCLUSIONS

Nanoencapsulation of EGCG represents a promising approach in oncology, offering multiple therapeutic benefits over its unencapsulated form. Although the results so far are promising, further research is necessary to fully optimize the design of these nanosystems to ensure their safety, efficacy, and clinical viability.

Recent Progress in Nanotechnology Improving the Therapeutic Potential of Polyphenols for Cancer

Polyphenols derived from fruits, vegetables, and plants are bioactive compounds potentially beneficial to human health. Notably, compounds such as quercetin, curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), and resveratrol have been highlighted as antiproliferative agents for cancer. Due to their low solubility and limited bioavailability, some alternative nanotechnologies have been applied to encapsulate these compounds, aiming to improve their efficacy against cancer. In this comprehensive review, we evaluate the main nanotechnology approaches to improve the therapeutic potential of polyphenols against cancer using in vitro studies and in vivo preclinical models, highlighting recent advancements in the field. It was found that polymeric nanomaterials, lipid-based nanomaterials, inorganic nanomaterials, and carbon-based nanomaterials are the most used classes of nanocarriers for encapsulating polyphenols. These delivery systems exhibit enhanced antitumor activity and pro-apoptotic effects, particularly against breast, lung, prostate, cervical, and colorectal cancer cells, surpassing the performance of free bioactive compounds. Preclinical trials in xenograft animal models have revealed decreased tumor growth after treatment with polyphenol-loaded delivery systems. Moreover, the interaction of polyphenol co-delivery systems and polyphenol-drug delivery systems is a promising approach to increase anticancer activity and decrease chemotherapy side effects. These innovative approaches hold significant implications for the advancement of clinical cancer research.

The Role and Therapeutic Potential of Macropinocytosis in Cancer

Macropinocytosis, a unique endocytosis pathway characterized by nonspecific internalization, has a vital role in the uptake of extracellular substances and antigen presentation. It is known to have dual effects on cancer cells, depending on cancer type and certain microenvironmental conditions. It helps cancer cells survive in nutrient-deficient environments, enhances resistance to anticancer drugs, and promotes invasion and metastasis. Conversely, overexpression of the RAS gene alongside drug treatment can lead to methuosis, a novel mode of cell death. The survival and proliferation of cancer cells is closely related to macropinocytosis in the tumor microenvironment (TME), but identifying how these cells interface with the TME is crucial for creating drugs that can limit cancer progression and metastasis. Substantial progress has been made in recent years on designing anticancer therapies that utilize the effects of macropinocytosis. Both the induction and inhibition of macropinocytosis are useful strategies for combating cancer cells. This article systematically reviews the general mechanisms of macropinocytosis, its specific functions in tumor cells, its occurrence in nontumor cells in the TME, and its application in tumor therapies. The aim is to elucidate the role and therapeutic potential of macropinocytosis in cancer treatment.

Biomedical Applications of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: Current Insights Progress and Perspectives

The enormous development of nanomaterials technology and the immediate response of many areas of science, research, and practice to their possible application has led to the publication of thousands of scientific papers, books, and reports. This vast amount of information requires careful classification and order, especially for specifically targeted practical needs. Therefore, the present review aims to summarize to some extent the role of iron oxide nanoparticles in biomedical research. Summarizing the fundamental properties of the magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles, the review's next focus was to classify research studies related to applying these particles for cancer diagnostics and therapy (similar to photothermal therapy, hyperthermia), in nano theranostics, multimodal therapy. Special attention is paid to research studies dealing with the opportunities of combining different nanomaterials to achieve optimal systems for biomedical application. In this regard, original data about the synthesis and characterization of nanolipidic magnetic hybrid systems are included as an example. The last section of the review is dedicated to the capacities of magnetite-based magnetic nanoparticles for the management of oncological diseases.