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Huttunen KM. Improving drug delivery to the brain: the prodrug approach. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024. [PMID: 38738934 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2355180] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The prodrug approach has been thought to be a simple solution to improve brain drug delivery for decades. Nevertheless, it still comes as a surprise that there is relatively little success in the field. The best example anti-parkinsonian drug levodopa has been serendipitously discovered to be a transporter-utilizing brain-delivered prodrug rather than a rationally developed one. AREAS COVERED The lack of success can mainly be explained by the insufficient understanding of the role of membrane proteins that can facilitate drug delivery at dynamic barriers, such as the blood-brain barrier (BBB), but also by the sparse knowledge of prodrug bioconverting enzymes in the brain. This review summarizes the current status of the prodrug attempts that have been developed in the past to improve brain drug delivery. EXPERT OPINION With the expandingly improved analytical and computational technologies, it is anticipated that enhanced brain drug delivery will be eventually achieved for most of the central nervous system (CNS) acting drugs. However, this requires that carrier-mediated (pro)drug delivery methods are implemented in the very early phases of the drug development processes and not as a last step to survive a problematic investigational drug candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristiina M Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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2
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Henningfield CM, Soni N, Lee RW, Sharma R, Cleland JL, Green KN. Selective targeting and modulation of plaque associated microglia via systemic hydroxyl dendrimer administration in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model. Alzheimers Res Ther 2024; 16:101. [PMID: 38711159 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-024-01470-3] [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: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Alzheimer's disease (AD), microglia surround extracellular plaques and mount a sustained inflammatory response, contributing to the pathogenesis of the disease. Identifying approaches to specifically target plaque-associated microglia (PAMs) without interfering in the homeostatic functions of non-plaque associated microglia would afford a powerful tool and potential therapeutic avenue. METHODS Here, we demonstrated that a systemically administered nanomedicine, hydroxyl dendrimers (HDs), can cross the blood brain barrier and are preferentially taken up by PAMs in a mouse model of AD. As proof of principle, to demonstrate biological effects in PAM function, we treated the 5xFAD mouse model of amyloidosis for 4 weeks via systemic administration (ip, 2x weekly) of HDs conjugated to a colony stimulating factor-1 receptor (CSF1R) inhibitor (D-45113). RESULTS Treatment resulted in significant reductions in amyloid-beta (Aβ) and a stark reduction in the number of microglia and microglia-plaque association in the subiculum and somatosensory cortex, as well as a downregulation in microglial, inflammatory, and synaptic gene expression compared to vehicle treated 5xFAD mice. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that systemic administration of a dendranib may be utilized to target and modulate PAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caden M Henningfield
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, 3208 Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Neelakshi Soni
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, 3208 Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Ryan W Lee
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, 3208 Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Rishi Sharma
- Ashvattha Therapeutics, Inc, Redwood City, CA, 94065, USA
| | | | - Kim N Green
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, 3208 Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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Naghdi Babaei F, Shirzad M, Ghasemi-Kasman M, Ghadir S, Hasaniani N, Ghasemi S, Amiri Manjili D. Sub-acute administration of metal-organic Framework-5 induces behavioral impairments and augments the levels of oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain of rats. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 187:114608. [PMID: 38522498 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114608] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are known as potential pharmaceutical carriers because of their structure. Here, we evaluated the sub-acute administrations of MOF-5 on behavioral parameters, oxidative stress, and inflammation levels in rats. Thirty-two male Wistar rats received four injections of saline or MOF-5 at different doses which were 1, 10, and 50 mg/kg via caudal vein. Y-Maze and Morris-Water Maze (MWM) tests were used to explore working memory and spatial learning and memory, respectively. The antioxidant capacity and oxidative stress level of brain samples were assessed by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and thiobarbituric acid-reacting substance (TBARS) assay, respectively. The expression levels of GFAP, IL-1β, and TNF-α were also measured by quantitative real-time reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). Sub-acute administration of MOF-5 reduced the spatial learning and memory as well as working memory, dose-dependently. The levels of FRAP were significantly reduced in rats treated with MOF-5 at higher doses. The Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased at the dose of 50 mg/kg. Additionally, the expression levels of IL-1β and TNF-α were significantly elevated in the rats' brains that were treated with MOF-5. Our findings indicate that sub-acute administration of MOF-5 induces cognitive impairment dose-dependently which might be partly mediated by increasing oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Moein Shirzad
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Maryam Ghasemi-Kasman
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
| | - Sara Ghadir
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Nima Hasaniani
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Shahram Ghasemi
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
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Seo Y, Chang KW, Lee J, Kong C, Shin J, Chang JW, Na YC, Chang WS. Optimal timing for drug delivery into the hippocampus by focused ultrasound: A comparison of hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29480. [PMID: 38644896 PMCID: PMC11033133 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29480] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims Previous studies have reported that focused ultrasound (FUS) helps modulate the blood-brain barrier (BBB). These studies have generally used the paracellular pathway owing to tight junction proteins (TJPs) regulation. However, BBB transport pathways also include diffusion and transcytosis. Few studies have examined transcellular transport across endothelial cells. We supposed that increased BBB permeability caused by FUS may affect transcytosis. We investigated drug delivery through transcytosis and paracellular transport to the brain after BBB modulation using FUS. Main methods FUS and microbubbles were applied to the hippocampus of rats, and were euthanized at 1, 4, 24, and 48 h after sonication. To investigate paracellular transport, we analyzed TJPs, including zona occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin. We also investigated caveola-mediated transcytosis by analyzing caveola formation and major facilitator superfamily domain-containing 2a (Mfsd2a) levels, which inhibit caveola vesicle formation. Key findings One hour after FUS, ZO-1 and occludin expression was the lowest and gradually increased over time, returning to baseline 24 h after FUS treatment. Compared with that of TJPs, caveola formation started to increase 1 h after FUS treatment and peaked at 4 h after FUS treatment before returning to baseline by 48 h after FUS treatment. Decreased Mfsd2a levels were observed at 1 h and 4 h after FUS treatment, indicating increased caveola formation. Significance FUS induces BBB permeability changes and regulates both paracellular transport and caveola-mediated transcytosis. However, a time difference was observed between these two mechanisms. Hence, when delivering drugs into the brain after FUS, the optimal drug administration timing should be determined by the mechanism by which each drug passes through the BBB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younghee Seo
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyung Won Chang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Chanho Kong
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jaewoo Shin
- Medical Device Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (K-MEDI Hub), Daegu, 41061, South Korea
| | - Jin Woo Chang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young Cheol Na
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Neurosurgery, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine, International St. Mary's Hospital, Incheon Metropolitan City, South Korea
| | - Won Seok Chang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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Zapata-Acevedo JF, Mantilla-Galindo A, Vargas-Sánchez K, González-Reyes RE. Blood-brain barrier biomarkers. Adv Clin Chem 2024; 121:1-88. [PMID: 38797540 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acc.2024.04.004] [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] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a dynamic interface that regulates the exchange of molecules and cells between the brain parenchyma and the peripheral blood. The BBB is mainly composed of endothelial cells, astrocytes and pericytes. The integrity of this structure is essential for maintaining brain and spinal cord homeostasis and protection from injury or disease. However, in various neurological disorders, such as traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis, the BBB can become compromised thus allowing passage of molecules and cells in and out of the central nervous system parenchyma. These agents, however, can serve as biomarkers of BBB permeability and neuronal damage, and provide valuable information for diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. Herein, we provide an overview of the BBB and changes due to aging, and summarize current knowledge on biomarkers of BBB disruption and neurodegeneration, including permeability, cellular, molecular and imaging biomarkers. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities for developing a biomarker toolkit that can reliably assess the BBB in physiologic and pathophysiologic states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Zapata-Acevedo
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencias, Centro de Neurociencia Neurovitae-UR, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Alejandra Mantilla-Galindo
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencias, Centro de Neurociencia Neurovitae-UR, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Karina Vargas-Sánchez
- Laboratorio de Neurofisiología Celular, Grupo de Neurociencia Traslacional, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Rodrigo E González-Reyes
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencias, Centro de Neurociencia Neurovitae-UR, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia.
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Korszun-Karbowniczak J, Krysiak ZJ, Saluk J, Niemcewicz M, Zdanowski R. The Progress in Molecular Transport and Therapeutic Development in Human Blood-Brain Barrier Models in Neurological Disorders. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2024; 44:34. [PMID: 38627312 PMCID: PMC11021242 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-024-01473-6] [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: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is responsible for maintaining homeostasis within the central nervous system (CNS). Depending on its permeability, certain substances can penetrate the brain, while others are restricted in their passage. Therefore, the knowledge about BBB structure and function is essential for understanding physiological and pathological brain processes. Consequently, the functional models can serve as a key to help reveal this unknown. There are many in vitro models available to study molecular mechanisms that occur in the barrier. Brain endothelial cells grown in culture are commonly used to modeling the BBB. Current BBB platforms include: monolayer platforms, transwell, matrigel, spheroidal, and tissue-on-chip models. In this paper, the BBB structure, molecular characteristic, as well as its dysfunctions as a consequence of aging, neurodegeneration, or under hypoxia and neurotoxic conditions are presented. Furthermore, the current modelling strategies that can be used to study BBB for the purpose of further drugs development that may reach CNS are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Korszun-Karbowniczak
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine National Research Institute, 128 Szaserów Street, 04-141, Warsaw, Poland
- BioMedChem Doctoral School of the University of Lodz and Lodz Institutes of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 21/23 Matejki Street, 90-237, Lodz, Poland
| | - Zuzanna Joanna Krysiak
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine National Research Institute, 128 Szaserów Street, 04-141, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Joanna Saluk
- Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lodz, 68 Narutowicza Street, 90-136, Lodz, Poland
| | - Marcin Niemcewicz
- Biohazard Prevention Centre, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 68 Narutowicza Street, 90-136, Lodz, Poland
| | - Robert Zdanowski
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine National Research Institute, 128 Szaserów Street, 04-141, Warsaw, Poland
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Niazi SK, Magoola M. Transcytosis-Driven Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disorders by mRNA-Expressed Antibody-Transferrin Conjugates. Biomedicines 2024; 12:851. [PMID: 38672205 PMCID: PMC11048317 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040851] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The recent setbacks in the withdrawal and approval delays of antibody treatments of neurodegenerative disorders (NDs), attributed to their poor entry across the blood-brain barrier (BBB), emphasize the need to bring novel approaches to enhance the entry across the BBB. One such approach is conjugating the antibodies that bind brain proteins responsible for NDs with the transferrin molecule. This glycoprotein transports iron into cells, connecting with the transferrin receptors (TfRs), piggybacking an antibody-transferrin complex that can subsequently release the antibody in the brain or stay connected while letting the antibody bind. This process increases the concentration of antibodies in the brain, enhancing therapeutic efficacy with targeted delivery and minimum systemic side effects. Currently, this approach is experimented with using drug-transferring conjugates assembled in vitro. Still, a more efficient and safer alternative is to express the conjugate using mRNA technology, as detailed in this paper. This approach will expedite safer discoveries that can be made available at a much lower cost than the recombinant process with in vitro conjugation. Most importantly, the recommendations made in this paper may save the antibodies against the NDs that seem to be failing despite their regulatory approvals.
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8
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Bahrami K, Kärkkäinen J, Bibi S, Huttunen J, Tampio J, Montaser AB, Moody CL, Lehtonen M, Rautio J, Wheelhouse RT, Huttunen KM. Specific transport of temozolomide does not override DNA repair-mediated chemoresistance. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 195:106661. [PMID: 38052257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106661] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Temozolomide (TMZ) a DNA alkylating agent, is the standard-of-care for brain tumors, such as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Although the physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties of TMZ, such as chemical stability and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), have been questioned in the past, the acquired chemoresistance has been the main limiting factor of long-term clinical use of TMZ. In the present study, an L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)-utilizing prodrug of TMZ (TMZ-AA, 6) was prepared and studied for its cellular accumulation and cytotoxic properties in human squamous cell carcinoma, UT-SCC-28 and UT-SCC-42B cells, and TMZ-sensitive human glioma, U-87MG cells that expressed functional LAT1. TMZ-AA 6 accumulated more effectively than TMZ itself into those cancer cells that expressed LAT1 (UT-SCC-42B). However, this did not correlate with decreased viability of treated cells. Indeed, TMZ-AA 6, similarly to TMZ itself, required adjuvant inhibitor(s) of DNA-repair systems, O6-methylguanine-DNA methyl transferase (MGMT) and base excision repair (BER), as well as active DNA mismatch repair (MMR), for maximal growth inhibition. The present study shows that improving the delivery of this widely-used methylating agent is not the main barrier to improved chemotherapy, although utilizing a specific transporter overexpressed at the BBB or glioma cells can have targeting advantages. To obtain a more effective anticancer prodrug, the compound design focus should shift to altering the major DNA alkylation site or inhibiting DNA repair systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katayun Bahrami
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jussi Kärkkäinen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sania Bibi
- School of Pharmacy, University of Bradford, Bradford, BD7 1DP, UK
| | - Johanna Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Janne Tampio
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ahmed B Montaser
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Marko Lehtonen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jarkko Rautio
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Kristiina M Huttunen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
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Mishra S, Stany B, Das A, Kanagavel D, Vijayan M. A Comprehensive Review of Membrane Transporters and MicroRNA Regulation in Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04135-2. [PMID: 38558361 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04135-2] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a distressing neurodegenerative condition characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and tau tangles within the brain. The interconnectedness between membrane transporters (SLCs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) in AD pathogenesis has gained increasing attention. This review explores the localization, substrates, and functions of SLC transporters in the brain, emphasizing the roles of transporters for glutamate, glucose, nucleosides, and other essential compounds. The examination delves into the significance of SLCs in AD, their potential for drug development, and the intricate realm of miRNAs, encompassing their transcription, processing, functions, and regulation. MiRNAs have emerged as significant players in AD, including those associated with mitochondria and synapses. Furthermore, this review discusses the intriguing nexus of miRNAs targeting SLC transporters and their potential as therapeutic targets in AD. Finally, the review underscores the interaction between SLC transporters and miRNA regulation within the context of Alzheimer's disease, underscoring the need for further research in this area. This comprehensive review aims to shed light on the complex mechanisms underlying the causation of AD and provides insights into potential therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shatakshi Mishra
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Department of Biotechnology, VIT University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - B Stany
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Department of Biotechnology, VIT University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Anushka Das
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Department of Biotechnology, VIT University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Deepankumar Kanagavel
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Department of Biotechnology, VIT University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
| | - Murali Vijayan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA.
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Feng S, Rcheulishvili N, Jiang X, Zhu P, Pan X, Wei M, Wang PG, Ji Y, Papukashvili D. A review on Gaucher disease: therapeutic potential of β-glucocerebrosidase-targeted mRNA/saRNA approach. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:2111-2129. [PMID: 38617529 PMCID: PMC11008270 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.87741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Gaucher disease (GD), a rare hereditary lysosomal storage disorder, occurs due to a deficiency in the enzyme β-glucocerebrosidase (GCase). This deficiency leads to the buildup of substrate glucosylceramide (GlcCer) in macrophages, eventually resulting in various complications. Among its three types, GD2 is particularly severe with neurological involvements. Current treatments, such as enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), are not effective for GD2 and GD3 due to their inability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Other treatment approaches, such as gene or chaperone therapies are still in experimental stages. Additionally, GD treatments are costly and can have certain side effects. The successful use of messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccines for COVID-19 in 2020 has sparked interest in nucleic acid-based therapies. Remarkably, mRNA technology also offers a novel approach for protein replacement purposes. Additionally, self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) technology shows promise, potentially producing more protein at lower doses. This review aims to explore the potential of a cost-effective mRNA/saRNA-based approach for GD therapy. The use of GCase-mRNA/saRNA as a protein replacement therapy could offer a new and promising direction for improving the quality of life and extending the lifespan of individuals with GD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunping Feng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Nino Rcheulishvili
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | | | - Pan Zhu
- Cheerland Biomedicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xuehua Pan
- Shenzhen Pengbo Biotech Co. Ltd, Shenzhen, China
| | - Meilan Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Peng George Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Yang Ji
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Dimitri Papukashvili
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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11
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Nie X, Yuan T, Yu T, Yun Z, Yu T, Liu Q. Non-stem cell-derived exosomes: a novel therapeutics for neurotrauma. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:108. [PMID: 38475766 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02380-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurotrauma, encompassing traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and spinal cord injuries (SCI) impacts a significant portion of the global population. While spontaneous recovery post-TBI or SCI is possible, recent advancements in cell-based therapies aim to bolster these natural reparative mechanisms. Emerging research indicates that the beneficial outcomes of such therapies might be largely mediated by exosomes secreted from the administered cells. While stem cells have garnered much attention, exosomes derived from non-stem cells, including neurons, Schwann cells, microglia, and vascular endothelial cells, have shown notable therapeutic potential. These exosomes contribute to angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and axon remodeling, and display anti-inflammatory properties, marking them as promising agents for neurorestorative treatments. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the current methodologies, challenges, and future directions regarding the therapeutic role of non-stem cell-derived exosomes in neurotrauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Nie
- Department of Orthopaedic, The second hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tianyang Yuan
- Department of Orthopaedic, The second hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tong Yu
- Department of Orthopaedic, The second hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhihe Yun
- Department of Orthopaedic, The second hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tao Yu
- Department of Orthopaedic, The second hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Qinyi Liu
- Department of Orthopaedic, The second hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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Dichiara M, Cosentino G, Giordano G, Pasquinucci L, Marrazzo A, Costanzo G, Amata E. Designing drugs optimized for both blood-brain barrier permeation and intra-cerebral partition. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2024; 19:317-329. [PMID: 38145409 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2023.2294118] [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: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With the increasing incidence and prevalence of neurological disorders globally, there is a paramount need for new pharmacotherapies. BBB effectively protects the brain but raises a profound challenge to drug permeation, with less than 2% of most drugs reaching the CNS. AREAS COVERED This article reviews aspects of the most recent design strategies, providing insights into ideas and concepts in CNS drug discovery. An overview of the products available on the market is given and why clinical trials are continuously failing is discussed. EXPERT OPINION Among the available CNS drugs, small molecules account for most successful CNS therapeutics due to their ability to penetrate the BBB through passive or carrier-mediated mechanisms. The development of new CNS drugs is very difficult. To date, there is a lack of effective drugs for alleviating or even reversing the progression of brain diseases. Particularly, the use of artificial intelligence strategies, together with more appropriate animal models, may enable the design of molecules with appropriate permeation, to elicit a biological response from the neurotherapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dichiara
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco e della Salute, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cosentino
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco e della Salute, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giorgia Giordano
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco e della Salute, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Lorella Pasquinucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco e della Salute, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agostino Marrazzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco e della Salute, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuliana Costanzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco e della Salute, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuele Amata
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco e della Salute, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
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13
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Cooper CG, Kafetzis KN, Patabendige A, Tagalakis AD. Blood-brain barrier disruption in dementia: Nano-solutions as new treatment options. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:1359-1385. [PMID: 38154805 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16229] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Candidate drugs targeting the central nervous system (CNS) demonstrate extremely low clinical success rates, with more than 98% of potential treatments being discontinued due to poor blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Neurological conditions were shown to be the second leading cause of death globally in 2016, with the number of people currently affected by neurological disorders increasing rapidly. This increasing trend, along with an inability to develop BBB permeating drugs, is presenting a major hurdle in the treatment of CNS-related disorders, like dementia. To overcome this, it is necessary to understand the structure and function of the BBB, including the transport of molecules across its interface in both healthy and pathological conditions. The use of CNS drug carriers is rapidly gaining popularity in CNS research due to their ability to target BBB transport systems. Further research and development of drug delivery vehicles could provide essential information that can be used to develop novel treatments for neurological conditions. This review discusses the BBB and its transport systems and evaluates the potential of using nanoparticle-based delivery systems as drug carriers for CNS disease with a focus on dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Adjanie Patabendige
- Department of Biology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, UK
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Aristides D Tagalakis
- Department of Biology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, UK
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
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14
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James EI, Baggett DW, Chang E, Schachter J, Nixey T, Choi K, Guttman M, Nath A. Tryptanthrin Analogs Substoichiometrically Inhibit Seeded and Unseeded Tau4RD Aggregation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.02.578649. [PMID: 38352474 PMCID: PMC10862865 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.02.578649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Microtubule-associated protein tau is an intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) that forms characteristic fibrillar aggregates in several diseases, the most well-known of which is Alzheimer's disease (AD). Despite keen interest in disrupting or inhibiting tau aggregation to treat AD and related dementias, there are currently no FDA-approved tau-targeting drugs. This is due, in part, to the fact that tau and other IDPs do not exhibit a single well-defined conformation but instead populate a fluctuating conformational ensemble that precludes finding a stable "druggable" pocket. Despite this challenge, we previously reported the discovery of two novel families of tau ligands, including a class of aggregation inhibitors, identified through a protocol that combines molecular dynamics, structural analysis, and machine learning. Here we extend our exploration of tau druggability with the identification of tryptanthrin and its analogs as potent, substoichiometric aggregation inhibitors, with the best compounds showing potencies in the low nanomolar range even at a ~100-fold molar excess of tau4RD. Moreover, conservative changes in small molecule structure can have large impacts on inhibitory potency, demonstrating that similar structure-activity relationship (SAR) principles as used for traditional drug development also apply to tau and potentially to other IDPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie I. James
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - David W. Baggett
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Current address: Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Edcon Chang
- Takeda Development Center Americas, San Diego, CA
| | | | - Thomas Nixey
- Takeda Development Center Americas, San Diego, CA
| | | | - Miklos Guttman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Abhinav Nath
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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15
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Zhao H, Sun M, Zhang Y, Kong W, Fan L, Wang K, Xu Q, Chen B, Dong J, Shi Y, Wang Z, Wang S, Zhuang X, Li Q, Lin F, Yao X, Zhang W, Kong C, Zhang R, Feng D, Zhao X. Connecting the Dots: The Cerebral Lymphatic System as a Bridge Between the Central Nervous System and Peripheral System in Health and Disease. Aging Dis 2024; 15:115-152. [PMID: 37307828 PMCID: PMC10796102 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0516] [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: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
As a recently discovered waste removal system in the brain, cerebral lymphatic system is thought to play an important role in regulating the homeostasis of the central nervous system. Currently, more and more attention is being focused on the cerebral lymphatic system. Further understanding of the structural and functional characteristics of cerebral lymphatic system is essential to better understand the pathogenesis of diseases and to explore therapeutic approaches. In this review, we summarize the structural components and functional characteristics of cerebral lymphatic system. More importantly, it is closely associated with peripheral system diseases in the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and kidney. However, there is still a gap in the study of the cerebral lymphatic system. However, we believe that it is a critical mediator of the interactions between the central nervous system and the peripheral system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxiang Zhao
- Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Meiyan Sun
- Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Yue Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Wenwen Kong
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Lulu Fan
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Kaifang Wang
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Qing Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Baiyan Chen
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Jianxin Dong
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Yanan Shi
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Zhengyan Wang
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - ShiQi Wang
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Xiaoli Zhuang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Qi Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Feihong Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xinyu Yao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
| | - WenBo Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Children’s Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Chang Kong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Dayun Feng
- Department of neurosurgery, Tangdu hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Xiaoyong Zhao
- Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
- Shandong Provincial Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Anesthesia, School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
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16
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Pirollo KF, Moghe M, Guan M, Rait AS, Wang A, Kim SS, Chang EH, Harford JB. A Pralidoxime Nanocomplex Formulation Targeting Transferrin Receptors for Reactivation of Brain Acetylcholinesterase After Exposure of Mice to an Anticholinesterase Organophosphate. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:307-326. [PMID: 38229703 PMCID: PMC10790653 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s443498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Organophosphates are among the deadliest of known chemicals based on their ability to inactivate acetylcholinesterase in neuromuscular junctions and synapses of the central and peripheral nervous systems. The consequent accumulation of acetylcholine can produce severe acute toxicities and death. Oxime antidotes act by reactivating acetylcholinesterase with the only such reactivator approved for use in the United States being 2-pyridine aldoxime methyl chloride (a.k.a., pralidoxime or 2-PAM). However, this compound does not cross the blood-brain barrier readily and so is limited in its ability to reactivate acetylcholinesterase in the brain. Methods We have developed a novel formulation of 2-PAM by encapsulating it within a nanocomplex designed to cross the blood-brain barrier via transferrin receptor-mediated transcytosis. This nanocomplex (termed scL-2PAM) has been subjected to head-to-head comparisons with unencapsulated 2-PAM in mice exposed to paraoxon, an organophosphate with anticholinesterase activity. Results and Discussion In mice exposed to a sublethal dose of paraoxon, scL-2PAM reduced the extent and duration of cholinergic symptoms more effectively than did unencapsulated 2-PAM. The scL-2PAM formulation was also more effective than unencapsulated 2-PAM in rescuing mice from death after exposure to otherwise-lethal levels of paraoxon. Improved survival rates in paraoxon-exposed mice were accompanied by a higher degree of reactivation of brain acetylcholinesterase. Conclusion Our data indicate that scL-2PAM is superior to the currently used form of 2-PAM in terms of both mitigating paraoxon toxicity in mice and reactivating acetylcholinesterase in their brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen F Pirollo
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - Manish Moghe
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - Miaoyin Guan
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - Antonina S Rait
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - Aibing Wang
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - Sang-Soo Kim
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
- SynerGene Therapeutics, Inc., Potomac, MD, 20854, USA
| | - Esther H Chang
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - Joe B Harford
- SynerGene Therapeutics, Inc., Potomac, MD, 20854, USA
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17
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Duan Q, Liu R, Luo JQ, Zhang JY, Zhou Y, Zhao J, Du JZ. Virus-Inspired Glucose and Polydopamine (GPDA)-Coating as an Effective Strategy for the Construction of Brain Delivery Platforms. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:402-410. [PMID: 38153842 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c04175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
The ability of drugs to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is crucial for treating central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Inspired by natural viruses, here we report a glucose and polydopamine (GPDA) coating method for the construction of delivery platforms for efficient BBB crossing. Such platforms are composed of nanoparticles (NPs) as the inner core and surface functionalized with glucose-poly(ethylene glycol) (Glu-PEG) and polydopamine (PDA) coating. Glu-PEG provides selective targeting of the NPs to brain capillary endothelial cells (BCECs), while PDA enhances the transcytosis of the NPs. This strategy is applicable to gold NPs (AuNPs), silica, and polymeric NPs, which achieves as high as 1.87% of the injected dose/g of brain in healthy brain tissues. In addition, the GPDA coating manages to deliver NPs into the tumor tissue in the orthotopic glioblastoma model. Our study may provide a universal strategy for the construction of delivery platforms for efficient BBB crossing and brain drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qijia Duan
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Rong Liu
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jia-Qi Luo
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jing-Yang Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 511442, China
| | - Yubo Zhou
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Junpeng Zhao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Jin-Zhi Du
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
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18
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Hynynen K. Sounding Out the Blood-Brain Barrier. N Engl J Med 2024; 390:82-85. [PMID: 38169495 DOI: 10.1056/nejme2311358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Kullervo Hynynen
- From Sunnybrook Research Institute and the Department of Medical Biophysics and the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto - both in Toronto
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19
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Ronaldson PT, Williams EI, Betterton RD, Stanton JA, Nilles KL, Davis TP. CNS Drug Delivery in Stroke: Improving Therapeutic Translation From the Bench to the Bedside. Stroke 2024; 55:190-202. [PMID: 38134249 PMCID: PMC10752297 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.123.043764] [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] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Drug development for ischemic stroke is challenging as evidenced by the paucity of therapeutics that have advanced beyond a phase III trial. There are many reasons for this lack of clinical translation including factors related to the experimental design of preclinical studies. Often overlooked in therapeutic development for ischemic stroke is the requirement of effective drug delivery to the brain, which is critical for neuroprotective efficacy of several small and large molecule drugs. Advancing central nervous system drug delivery technologies implies a need for detailed comprehension of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and neurovascular unit. Such knowledge will permit the innate biology of the BBB/neurovascular unit to be leveraged for improved bench-to-bedside translation of novel stroke therapeutics. In this review, we will highlight key aspects of BBB/neurovascular unit pathophysiology and describe state-of-the-art approaches for optimization of central nervous system drug delivery (ie, passive diffusion, mechanical opening of the BBB, liposomes/nanoparticles, transcytosis, intranasal drug administration). Additionally, we will discuss how endogenous BBB transporters represent the next frontier of drug delivery strategies for stroke. Overall, this review will provide cutting edge perspective on how central nervous system drug delivery must be considered for the advancement of new stroke drugs toward human trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick T. Ronaldson
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Graduate Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Erica I. Williams
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Robert D. Betterton
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Joshua A. Stanton
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Kelsy L. Nilles
- Graduate Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Thomas P. Davis
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Graduate Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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20
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Ronaldson PT, Davis TP. Blood-brain barrier transporters: a translational consideration for CNS delivery of neurotherapeutics. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:71-89. [PMID: 38217410 PMCID: PMC10842757 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2306138] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Successful neuropharmacology requires optimization of CNS drug delivery and, by extension, free drug concentrations at brain molecular targets. Detailed assessment of blood-brain barrier (BBB) physiological characteristics is necessary to achieve this goal. The 'next frontier' in CNS drug delivery is targeting BBB uptake transporters, an approach that requires evaluation of brain endothelial cell transport processes so that effective drug accumulation and improved therapeutic efficacy can occur. AREAS COVERED BBB permeability of drugs is governed by tight junction protein complexes (i.e., physical barrier) and transporters/enzymes (i.e., biochemical barrier). For most therapeutics, a component of blood-to-brain transport involves passive transcellular diffusion. Small molecule drugs that do not possess acceptable physicochemical characteristics for passive permeability may utilize putative membrane transporters for CNS uptake. While both uptake and efflux transport mechanisms are expressed at the brain microvascular endothelium, uptake transporters can be targeted for optimization of brain drug delivery and improved treatment of neurological disease states. EXPERT OPINION Uptake transporters represent a unique opportunity to optimize brain drug delivery by leveraging the endogenous biology of the BBB. A rigorous understanding of these transporters is required to improve translation from the bench to clinical trials and stimulate the development of new treatment paradigms for neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas P. Davis
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona College of Medicine
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21
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Melin E, Pripp AH, Eide PK, Ringstad G. In vivo distribution of cerebrospinal fluid tracer in human upper spinal cord and brain stem. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e173276. [PMID: 38063195 PMCID: PMC10795833 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.173276] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDIntrathecal injection is an attractive route through which drugs can be administered and directed to the spinal cord, restricted by the blood-spinal cord barrier. However, in vivo data on the distribution of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) substances in the human spinal cord are lacking. We conducted this study to assess the enrichment of a CSF tracer in the upper cervical spinal cord and the brain stem.METHODSAfter lumbar intrathecal injection of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent, gadobutrol, repeated blood samples and MRI of the upper cervical spinal cord, brain stem, and adjacent subarachnoid spaces (SAS) were obtained through 48 hours. The MRI scans were then analyzed for tracer distribution in the different regions and correlated to age, disease, and amounts of tracer in the blood to determine CSF-to-blood clearance.RESULTSThe study included 26 reference individuals and 35 patients with the dementia subtype idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). The tracer enriched all analyzed regions. Moreover, tracer enrichment in parenchyma was associated with tracer enrichment in the adjacent SAS and with CSF-to-blood clearance. Clearance from the CSF was delayed in patients with iNPH compared with younger reference patients.CONCLUSIONA CSF tracer substance administered to the lumbar thecal sac can access the parenchyma of the upper cervical spinal cord and brain stem. Since CSF-to-blood clearance is highly individual and is associated with tracer level in CSF, clearance assessment may be used to tailor intrathecal treatment regimes.FUNDINGSouth-Eastern Norway Regional Health and Østfold Hospital Trust supported the research and publication of this work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Melin
- Department of Radiology, Østfold Hospital Trust, Grålum, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Are Hugo Pripp
- Oslo Centre of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Research Support Services, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Health Sciences, OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Per Kristian Eide
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Neurosurgery and
| | - Geir Ringstad
- Department of Radiology, Oslo University Hospital-Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Geriatrics and Internal medicine, Sorlandet Hospital, Arendal, Norway
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22
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Wevers NR, De Vries HE. Microfluidic models of the neurovascular unit: a translational view. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:86. [PMID: 38008744 PMCID: PMC10680291 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-023-00490-9] [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: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The vasculature of the brain consists of specialized endothelial cells that form a blood-brain barrier (BBB). This barrier, in conjunction with supporting cell types, forms the neurovascular unit (NVU). The NVU restricts the passage of certain substances from the bloodstream while selectively permitting essential nutrients and molecules to enter the brain. This protective role is crucial for optimal brain function, but presents a significant obstacle in treating neurological conditions, necessitating chemical modifications or advanced drug delivery methods for most drugs to cross the NVU. A deeper understanding of NVU in health and disease will aid in the identification of new therapeutic targets and drug delivery strategies for improved treatment of neurological disorders.To achieve this goal, we need models that reflect the human BBB and NVU in health and disease. Although animal models of the brain's vasculature have proven valuable, they are often of limited translational relevance due to interspecies differences or inability to faithfully mimic human disease conditions. For this reason, human in vitro models are essential to improve our understanding of the brain's vasculature under healthy and diseased conditions. This review delves into the advancements in in vitro modeling of the BBB and NVU, with a particular focus on microfluidic models. After providing a historical overview of the field, we shift our focus to recent developments, offering insights into the latest achievements and their associated constraints. We briefly examine the importance of chip materials and methods to facilitate fluid flow, emphasizing their critical roles in achieving the necessary throughput for the integration of microfluidic models into routine experimentation. Subsequently, we highlight the recent strides made in enhancing the biological complexity of microfluidic NVU models and propose recommendations for elevating the biological relevance of future iterations.Importantly, the NVU is an intricate structure and it is improbable that any model will fully encompass all its aspects. Fit-for-purpose models offer a valuable compromise between physiological relevance and ease-of-use and hold the future of NVU modeling: as simple as possible, as complex as needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke R Wevers
- MIMETAS BV, De Limes 7, Oegstgeest, 2342 DH, The Netherlands.
| | - Helga E De Vries
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience - Neuroinfection and Neuroinflammation, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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23
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Williams EI, Betterton RD, Stanton JA, Moreno-Rodriguez VM, Lochhead JJ, Davis TP, Ronaldson PT. Oatp (Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptide)-Mediated Transport: A Mechanism for Atorvastatin Neuroprotection in Stroke. Stroke 2023; 54:2875-2885. [PMID: 37750296 PMCID: PMC10615849 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.123.043649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug discovery for stroke is challenging as indicated by poor clinical translatability. In contrast, HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A) reductase inhibitors (ie, statins) improve poststroke neurological outcomes. This property requires transport across the blood-brain barrier via an endogenous uptake transporter (ie, Oatp1a4 [organic anion transporting polypeptide 1a4]). Our goal was to study Oatp1a4 as a drug delivery mechanism because the blood-brain barrier cannot be assumed to be completely open for all drugs in ischemic stroke. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats (200-250 g) were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (90 minutes) followed by reperfusion for up to 7 days. Atorvastatin (20 mg/kg, IV) was administered 2 hours following intraluminal suture removal. Involvement of Oatp-mediated transport was determined using fexofenadine (3.2 mg/kg, IV), a competitive Oatp inhibitor. Oatp1a4 transport activity was measured by in situ brain perfusion. Infarction volumes/brain edema ratios and neuronal nuclei expression were determined using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride-stained brain tissue slices and confocal microscopy, respectively. Poststroke functional outcomes were assessed via neurological deficit scores and rotarod analysis. RESULTS At 2-hour post-middle cerebral artery occlusion, [3H]atorvastatin uptake was increased in ischemic brain tissue. A single dose of atorvastatin significantly reduced post-middle cerebral artery occlusion infarction volume, decreased brain edema ratio, increased caudoputamen neuronal nuclei expression, and improved functional neurological outcomes. All middle cerebral artery occlusion positive effects of atorvastatin were attenuated by fexofenadine coadministration (ie, an Oatp transport inhibitor). CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate that neuroprotective effects of atorvastatin may require central nervous system delivery by Oatp-mediated transport at the blood-brain barrier, a mechanism that persists despite increased cerebrovascular permeability in ischemic stroke. These novel and translational findings support utility of blood-brain barrier transporters in drug delivery for neuroprotective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica I. Williams
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Robert D. Betterton
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Joshua A. Stanton
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey J. Lochhead
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Thomas P. Davis
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Patrick T. Ronaldson
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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Fernandez M, Nigro M, Travagli A, Pasquini S, Vincenzi F, Varani K, Borea PA, Merighi S, Gessi S. Strategies for Drug Delivery into the Brain: A Review on Adenosine Receptors Modulation for Central Nervous System Diseases Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2441. [PMID: 37896201 PMCID: PMC10610137 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102441] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a biological barrier that protects the central nervous system (CNS) by ensuring an appropriate microenvironment. Brain microvascular endothelial cells (ECs) control the passage of molecules from blood to brain tissue and regulate their concentration-versus-time profiles to guarantee proper neuronal activity, angiogenesis and neurogenesis, as well as to prevent the entry of immune cells into the brain. However, the BBB also restricts the penetration of drugs, thus presenting a challenge in the development of therapeutics for CNS diseases. On the other hand, adenosine, an endogenous purine-based nucleoside that is expressed in most body tissues, regulates different body functions by acting through its G-protein-coupled receptors (A1, A2A, A2B and A3). Adenosine receptors (ARs) are thus considered potential drug targets for treating different metabolic, inflammatory and neurological diseases. In the CNS, A1 and A2A are expressed by astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, neurons, immune cells and ECs. Moreover, adenosine, by acting locally through its receptors A1 and/or A2A, may modulate BBB permeability, and this effect is potentiated when both receptors are simultaneously activated. This review showcases in vivo and in vitro evidence supporting AR signaling as a candidate for modifying endothelial barrier permeability in the treatment of CNS disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Fernandez
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | - Manuela Nigro
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | - Alessia Travagli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | - Silvia Pasquini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | | | - Stefania Merighi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | - Stefania Gessi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
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25
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Fatani AS, Petkova A, Schatzlein AG, Uchegbu IF. Dose-dependent delivery of genes to the cerebral cortex via the nasal route. Int J Pharm 2023; 644:123343. [PMID: 37633538 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123343] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
The use of nucleic acids to treat various brain diseases could offer new therapeutic modalities, providing the nucleic acids may be effectively delivered to areas of the brain using non-toxic vectors. In this study, we present evidence that genes may be successfully delivered in a dose-dependent manner via the nose, primarily to the cerebral cortex using a 6-O-glycolchitosan (GC) formulation of plasmid DNA. Positively charged (zeta potential = +13 - + 25 mV) GC-DNA nanoparticles of 100-500 nm in diameter with favourable cell biocompatibility were shown to deliver the reporter Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) plasmid to the U87MG cell line and the resulting protein expression was not significantly different from that obtained with Lipofectamine 2000. On intranasal delivery of GC-luciferase-plasmid nanoparticles to Balb/ C mice at 4 doses, ranging from 0.02 to 0.1 mg/ kg, luciferase activity was observed qualitatively in intact mouse brains, 48 h after intranasal, using the IV-VIS visualisation. In further confirmation of brain delivery, dose-dependent protein expression was quantified in multiple brain areas 48 h after dosing; with protein expression seen mainly in the cerebral cortex and striatum and following expression levels: cerebral cortex = olfactory bulb > striatum > brain stem > mid brain = cerebellum. No protein expression was observed in the liver and lungs of dosed animals. GC-DNA protein expression was not significantly different to that observed with Lipofectamine 2000. These results demonstrate that GC-DNA nanoparticles are able to deliver genes preferably to specific brain regions such as the cerebral cortex and striatum; offering the possibility of using genes to treat a range of neurological disorders using a non-invasive method of dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Asya Petkova
- UCL School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK; Nanomerics Ltd., Block Y, Northwick Park and St Mark's Hospital, Watford Road, Harrow HA1 3UJ, UK
| | - Andreas G Schatzlein
- UCL School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK; Nanomerics Ltd., Block Y, Northwick Park and St Mark's Hospital, Watford Road, Harrow HA1 3UJ, UK
| | - Ijeoma F Uchegbu
- UCL School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK; Nanomerics Ltd., Block Y, Northwick Park and St Mark's Hospital, Watford Road, Harrow HA1 3UJ, UK.
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26
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Del Campo Fonseca A, Glück C, Droux J, Ferry Y, Frei C, Wegener S, Weber B, El Amki M, Ahmed D. Ultrasound trapping and navigation of microrobots in the mouse brain vasculature. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5889. [PMID: 37735158 PMCID: PMC10514062 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41557-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The intricate and delicate anatomy of the brain poses significant challenges for the treatment of cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, precise local drug delivery in hard-to-reach brain regions remains an urgent medical need. Microrobots offer potential solutions; however, their functionality in the brain remains restricted by limited imaging capabilities and complications within blood vessels, such as high blood flows, osmotic pressures, and cellular responses. Here, we introduce ultrasound-activated microrobots for in vivo navigation in brain vasculature. Our microrobots consist of lipid-shelled microbubbles that autonomously aggregate and propel under ultrasound irradiation. We investigate their capacities in vitro within microfluidic-based vasculatures and in vivo within vessels of a living mouse brain. These microrobots self-assemble and execute upstream motion in brain vasculature, achieving velocities up to 1.5 µm/s and moving against blood flows of ~10 mm/s. This work represents a substantial advance towards the therapeutic application of microrobots within the complex brain vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Del Campo Fonseca
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab, ETH, Säumerstrasse 4, 8803, Rüschlikon, Switzerland
| | - Chaim Glück
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jeanne Droux
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, and Zurich Neuroscience Center, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland
| | - Yann Ferry
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab, ETH, Säumerstrasse 4, 8803, Rüschlikon, Switzerland
| | - Carole Frei
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab, ETH, Säumerstrasse 4, 8803, Rüschlikon, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Wegener
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, and Zurich Neuroscience Center, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mohamad El Amki
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, and Zurich Neuroscience Center, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland.
| | - Daniel Ahmed
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab, ETH, Säumerstrasse 4, 8803, Rüschlikon, Switzerland.
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27
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Esparza TJ, Su S, Francescutti CM, Rodionova E, Kim JH, Brody DL. Enhanced in vivo blood brain barrier transcytosis of macromolecular cargo using an engineered pH-sensitive mouse transferrin receptor binding nanobody. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:64. [PMID: 37620930 PMCID: PMC10463325 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-023-00462-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The blood brain barrier limits entry of macromolecular diagnostic and therapeutic cargos. Blood brain barrier transcytosis via receptor mediated transport systems, such as the transferrin receptor, can be used to carry macromolecular cargos with variable efficiency. Transcytosis involves trafficking through acidified intracellular vesicles, but it is not known whether pH-dependent unbinding of transport shuttles can be used to improve blood brain barrier transport efficiency. METHODS A mouse transferrin receptor binding nanobody, NIH-mTfR-M1, was engineered to confer greater unbinding at pH 5.5 vs 7.4 by introducing multiple histidine mutations. The histidine mutant nanobodies were coupled to neurotensin for in vivo functional blood brain barrier transcytosis testing via central neurotensin-mediated hypothermia in wild-type mice. Multi-nanobody constructs including the mutant M1R56H, P96H, Y102H and two copies of the P2X7 receptor-binding 13A7 nanobody were produced to test proof-of-concept macromolecular cargo transport in vivo using quantitatively verified capillary depleted brain lysates and in situ histology. RESULTS The most effective histidine mutant, M1R56H, P96H, Y102H-neurotensin, caused > 8 °C hypothermia after 25 nmol/kg intravenous injection. Levels of the heterotrimeric construct M1R56H, P96H, Y102H-13A7-13A7 in capillary depleted brain lysates peaked at 1 h and were 60% retained at 8 h. A control construct with no brain targets was only 15% retained at 8 h. Addition of the albumin-binding Nb80 nanobody to make M1R56H, P96H, Y102H-13A7-13A7-Nb80 extended blood half-life from 21 min to 2.6 h. At 30-60 min, biotinylated M1R56H, P96H, Y102H-13A7-13A7-Nb80 was visualized in capillaries using in situ histochemistry, whereas at 2-16 h it was detected in diffuse hippocampal and cortical cellular structures. Levels of M1R56H, P96H, Y102H-13A7-13A7-Nb80 reached more than 3.5 percent injected dose/gram of brain tissue after 30 nmol/kg intravenous injection. However, higher injected concentrations did not result in higher brain levels, compatible with saturation and an apparent substrate inhibitory effect. CONCLUSION The pH-sensitive mouse transferrin receptor binding nanobody M1R56H, P96H, Y102H may be a useful tool for rapid and efficient modular transport of diagnostic and therapeutic macromolecular cargos across the blood brain barrier in mouse models. Additional development will be required to determine whether this nanobody-based shuttle system will be useful for imaging and fast-acting therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Esparza
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shiran Su
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Elvira Rodionova
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Joong Hee Kim
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David L Brody
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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28
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Nhàn NTT, Yamada T, Yamada KH. Peptide-Based Agents for Cancer Treatment: Current Applications and Future Directions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12931. [PMID: 37629112 PMCID: PMC10454368 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide-based strategies have received an enormous amount of attention because of their specificity and applicability. Their specificity and tumor-targeting ability are applied to diagnosis and treatment for cancer patients. In this review, we will summarize recent advancements and future perspectives on peptide-based strategies for cancer treatment. The literature search was conducted to identify relevant articles for peptide-based strategies for cancer treatment. It was performed using PubMed for articles in English until June 2023. Information on clinical trials was also obtained from ClinicalTrial.gov. Given that peptide-based strategies have several advantages such as targeted delivery to the diseased area, personalized designs, relatively small sizes, and simple production process, bioactive peptides having anti-cancer activities (anti-cancer peptides or ACPs) have been tested in pre-clinical settings and clinical trials. The capability of peptides for tumor targeting is essentially useful for peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs), diagnosis, and image-guided surgery. Immunomodulation with peptide vaccines has been extensively tested in clinical trials. Despite such advantages, FDA-approved peptide agents for solid cancer are still limited. This review will provide a detailed overview of current approaches, design strategies, routes of administration, and new technological advancements. We will highlight the success and limitations of peptide-based therapies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyễn Thị Thanh Nhàn
- Department of Pharmacology & Regenerative Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
| | - Tohru Yamada
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
- Richard & Loan Hill Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois College of Engineering, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Kaori H. Yamada
- Department of Pharmacology & Regenerative Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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29
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Ajeeb R, Clegg JR. Intrathecal delivery of Macromolecules: Clinical status and emerging technologies. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 199:114949. [PMID: 37286086 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The proximity and association of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and the intrathecal (IT) space with deep targets in the central nervous system (CNS) parenchyma makes IT injection an attractive route of administration for brain drug delivery. However, the extent to which intrathecally administered macromolecules are effective in treating neurological diseases is a question of both clinical debate and technological interest. We present the biological, chemical, and physical properties of the intrathecal space that are relevant to drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination from CSF. We then analyze the evolution of IT drug delivery in clinical trials over the last 20 years. Our analysis revealed that the percentage of clinical trials assessing IT delivery for the delivery of biologics (i.e., macromolecules, cells) for treatment of chronic conditions (e.g., neurodegeneration, cancer, and metabolic diseases) has steadily increased. Clinical trials exploring cell or macromolecular delivery within the IT space have not evaluated engineering technologies, such as depots, particles, or other delivery systems. Recent pre-clinical studies have evaluated IT macromolecule delivery in small animals, postulating that delivery efficacy can be assisted by external medical devices, micro- or nanoparticles, bulk biomaterials, and viral vectors. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the extent to which engineering technologies and IT administration improve CNS targeting and therapeutic outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Ajeeb
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - John R Clegg
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States; Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States; Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States; Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Technology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States.
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30
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Bittner B, Sánchez-Félix M, Lee D, Koynov A, Horvath J, Schumacher F, Matoori S. Drug delivery breakthrough technologies - A perspective on clinical and societal impact. J Control Release 2023; 360:335-343. [PMID: 37364797 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
The way a drug molecule is administered has always had a profound impact on people requiring medical interventions - from vaccine development to cancer therapeutics. In the Controlled Release Society Fall Symposium 2022, a trans-institutional group of scientists from industry, academia, and non-governmental organizations discussed what a breakthrough in the field of drug delivery constitutes. On the basis of these discussions, we classified drug delivery breakthrough technologies into three categories. In category 1, drug delivery systems enable treatment for new molecular entities per se, for instance by overcoming biological barriers. In category 2, drug delivery systems optimize efficacy and/or safety of an existing drug, for instance by directing distribution to their target tissue, by replacing toxic excipients, or by changing the dosing reqimen. In category 3, drug delivery systems improve global access by fostering use in low-resource settings, for instance by facilitating drug administration outside of a controlled health care institutional setting. We recognize that certain breakthroughs can be classified in more than one category. It was concluded that in order to create a true breakthrough technology, multidisciplinary collaboration is mandated to move from pure technical inventions to true innovations addressing key current and emerging unmet health care needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Bittner
- Global Product Strategy, Product Optimization, Grenzacher Strasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Manuel Sánchez-Félix
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, 700 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Dennis Lee
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA 98119, United States
| | - Athanas Koynov
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ 07033, United States
| | - Joshua Horvath
- Device and Packaging Development, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Felix Schumacher
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Simon Matoori
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, 2940 Chemin de Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada.
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31
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Wang X, Liisberg MB, Vonlehmden GL, Fu X, Cerretani C, Li L, Johnson LA, Vosch T, Richards CI. DNA-AgNC Loaded Liposomes for Measuring Cerebral Blood Flow Using Two-Photon Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy. ACS NANO 2023; 17:12862-12874. [PMID: 37341451 PMCID: PMC11065323 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c04489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Unraveling the transport of drugs and nanocarriers in cerebrovascular networks is important for pharmacokinetic and hemodynamic studies but is challenging due to the complexity of sensing individual particles within the circulatory system of a live animal. Here, we demonstrate that a DNA-stabilized silver nanocluster (DNA-Ag16NC) that emits in the first near-infrared window upon two-photon excitation in the second NIR window can be used for multiphoton in vivo fluorescence correlation spectroscopy for the measurement of cerebral blood flow rates in live mice with high spatial and temporal resolution. To ensure bright and stable emission during in vivo experiments, we loaded DNA-Ag16NCs into liposomes, which served the dual purposes of concentrating the fluorescent label and protecting it from degradation. DNA-Ag16NC-loaded liposomes enabled the quantification of cerebral blood flow velocities within individual vessels of a living mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojin Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506, United States
| | - Mikkel B. Liisberg
- Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Georgia L. Vonlehmden
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Xu Fu
- Light Microscopy Core, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Cecilia Cerretani
- Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lan Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506, United States
| | - Lance A. Johnson
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
- Sanders Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40508, United States
| | - Tom Vosch
- Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Nanoscience Center, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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32
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Ahn I, Kang CS, Han J. Where should siRNAs go: applicable organs for siRNA drugs. Exp Mol Med 2023:10.1038/s12276-023-00998-y. [PMID: 37430086 PMCID: PMC10393947 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-00998-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA interference mediated by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) has been exploited for the development of therapeutics. siRNAs can be a powerful therapeutic tool because the working mechanisms of siRNAs are straightforward. siRNAs determine targets based on their sequence and specifically regulate the gene expression of the target gene. However, efficient delivery of siRNAs to the target organ has long been an issue that needs to be solved. Tremendous efforts regarding siRNA delivery have led to significant progress in siRNA drug development, and from 2018 to 2022, a total of five siRNA drugs were approved for the treatment of patients. Although all FDA-approved siRNA drugs target the hepatocytes of the liver, siRNA-based drugs targeting different organs are in clinical trials. In this review, we introduce siRNA drugs in the market and siRNA drug candidates in clinical trials that target cells in multiple organs. The liver, eye, and skin are the preferred organs targeted by siRNAs. Three or more siRNA drug candidates are in phase 2 or 3 clinical trials to suppress gene expression in these preferred organs. On the other hand, the lungs, kidneys, and brain are challenging organs with relatively few clinical trials. We discuss the characteristics of each organ related to the advantages and disadvantages of siRNA drug targeting and strategies to overcome the barriers in delivering siRNAs based on organ-specific siRNA drugs that have progressed to clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Insook Ahn
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Chanhee S Kang
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinju Han
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- BioMedical Research Center, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
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33
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Pardridge WM. Receptor-mediated drug delivery of bispecific therapeutic antibodies through the blood-brain barrier. FRONTIERS IN DRUG DELIVERY 2023; 3:1227816. [PMID: 37583474 PMCID: PMC10426772 DOI: 10.3389/fddev.2023.1227816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic antibody drug development is a rapidly growing sector of the pharmaceutical industry. However, antibody drug development for the brain is a technical challenge, and therapeutic antibodies for the central nervous system account for ~3% of all such agents. The principal obstacle to antibody drug development for brain or spinal cord is the lack of transport of large molecule biologics across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Therapeutic antibodies can be made transportable through the blood-brain barrier by the re-engineering of the therapeutic antibody as a BBB-penetrating bispecific antibody (BSA). One arm of the BSA is the therapeutic antibody and the other arm of the BSA is a transporting antibody. The transporting antibody targets an exofacial epitope on a BBB receptor, and this enables receptor-mediated transcytosis (RMT) of the BSA across the BBB. Following BBB transport, the therapeutic antibody then engages the target receptor in brain. RMT systems at the BBB that are potential conduits to the brain include the insulin receptor (IR), the transferrin receptor (TfR), the insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGFR) and the leptin receptor. Therapeutic antibodies have been re-engineered as BSAs that target the insulin receptor, TfR, or IGFR RMT systems at the BBB for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
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He A, Wang M, Li X, Chen H, Lim K, Lu L, Zhang C. Role of Exosomes in the Pathogenesis and Theranostic of Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11054. [PMID: 37446231 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311054] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are the most common neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) threatening the lives of millions of people worldwide, including especially elderly people. Currently, due to the lack of a timely diagnosis and proper intervention strategy, AD and PD largely remain incurable. Innovative diagnosis and therapy are highly desired. Exosomes are small vesicles that are present in various bodily fluids, which contain proteins, nucleic acids, and active biomolecules, and which play a crucial role especially in intercellular communication. In recent years, the role of exosomes in the pathogenesis, early diagnosis, and treatment of diseases has attracted ascending attention. However, the exact role of exosomes in the pathogenesis and theragnostic of AD and PD has not been fully illustrated. In the present review, we first introduce the biogenesis, components, uptake, and function of exosomes. Then we elaborate on the involvement of exosomes in the pathogenesis of AD and PD. Moreover, the application of exosomes in the diagnosis and therapeutics of AD and PD is also summarized and discussed. Additionally, exosomes serving as drug carriers to deliver medications to the central nervous system are specifically addressed. The potential role of exosomes in AD and PD is explored, discussing their applications in diagnosis and treatment, as well as their current limitations. Given the limitation in the application of exosomes, we also propose future perspectives for better utilizing exosomes in NDDs. Hopefully, it would pave ways for expanding the biological applications of exosomes in fundamental research as well as theranostics of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aojie He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjiannan Road, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Meiling Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjiannan Road, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Xiaowan Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjiannan Road, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Hong Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjiannan Road, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Kahleong Lim
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Li Lu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjiannan Road, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Chengwu Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjiannan Road, Taiyuan 030001, China
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Baghirov H. Receptor-mediated transcytosis of macromolecules across the blood-brain barrier. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:1699-1711. [PMID: 37658673 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2255138] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The blood-brain barrier (BBB) restricts brain access of virtually all macromolecules. Receptor-mediated transcytosis (RMT) is one strategy toward their brain delivery. In this strategy, targeting ligands conjugated to therapeutic payload or decorating particles containing the payload interact with targets on brain capillary endothelial cells (BCEC), triggering internalization, trafficking, and release from BCEC. AREAS COVERED RMT at the BBB has leveraged multiple formats of macromolecules and large particles. Interactions between those and BCEC have been studied primarily using antibodies, with findings applicable to the design of larger particles. BBB-penetrant constructs have also been identified in screening campaigns and directed evolution, and subsequently found to interact with RMT targets. In addition, BCEC targeted by constructs incorporating genomic payload can be made to produce therapeutic proteins. EXPERT OPINION While targeting may not be strictly necessary to reach a therapeutic effect for all macromolecules, it can improve a molecule's BBB transport, exposing it to the entire brain parenchyma and enhancing its effect. Constructs with better BCEC transcytosis may be designed rationally, leveraging knowledge about BCEC trafficking, and found in screening campaigns, where this knowledge can reduce the search space and improve iterative refinement. Identification of new targets may also help generate BBB-crossing constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habib Baghirov
- Roche Informatics, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Poznań, Poland
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Lim Kee Chang W, Chan TG, Raguseo F, Mishra A, Chattenton D, de Rosales RTM, Long NJ, Morse SV. Rapid short-pulses of focused ultrasound and microbubbles deliver a range of agent sizes to the brain. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6963. [PMID: 37117169 PMCID: PMC10147927 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33671-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Focused ultrasound and microbubbles can non-invasively and locally deliver therapeutics and imaging agents across the blood-brain barrier. Uniform treatment and minimal adverse bioeffects are critical to achieve reliable doses and enable safe routine use of this technique. Towards these aims, we have previously designed a rapid short-pulse ultrasound sequence and used it to deliver a 3 kDa model agent to mouse brains. We observed a homogeneous distribution in delivery and blood-brain barrier closing within 10 min. However, many therapeutics and imaging agents are larger than 3 kDa, such as antibody fragments and antisense oligonucleotides. Here, we evaluate the feasibility of using rapid short-pulses to deliver higher-molecular-weight model agents. 3, 10 and 70 kDa dextrans were successfully delivered to mouse brains, with decreasing doses and more heterogeneous distributions with increasing agent size. Minimal extravasation of endogenous albumin (66.5 kDa) was observed, while immunoglobulin (~ 150 kDa) and PEGylated liposomes (97.9 nm) were not detected. This study indicates that rapid short-pulses are versatile and, at an acoustic pressure of 0.35 MPa, can deliver therapeutics and imaging agents of sizes up to a hydrodynamic diameter between 8 nm (70 kDa dextran) and 11 nm (immunoglobulin). Increasing the acoustic pressure can extend the use of rapid short-pulses to deliver agents beyond this threshold, with little compromise on safety. This study demonstrates the potential for deliveries of higher-molecular-weight therapeutics and imaging agents using rapid short-pulses.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Lim Kee Chang
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, SW7 2BP, UK
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Tiffany G Chan
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, SW7 2BP, UK
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Federica Raguseo
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Aishwarya Mishra
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, SW1 7EH, UK
| | - Dani Chattenton
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, SW7 2BP, UK
- Division of Radiotherapy and Imaging, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, London, SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Rafael T M de Rosales
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, SW1 7EH, UK
| | - Nicholas J Long
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Sophie V Morse
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, SW7 2BP, UK.
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Esparza TJ, Su S, Francescutti CM, Rodionova E, Kim JH, Brody DL. Enhanced in Vivo Blood Brain Barrier Transcytosis of Macromolecular Cargo Using an Engineered pH-sensitive Mouse Transferrin Receptor Binding Nanobody. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.26.538462. [PMID: 37333358 PMCID: PMC10274906 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.26.538462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Background The blood brain barrier limits entry of macromolecular diagnostic and therapeutic cargos. Blood brain barrier transcytosis via receptor mediated transport systems, such as the transferrin receptor, can be used to carry macromolecular cargos with variable efficiency. Transcytosis involves trafficking through acidified intracellular vesicles, but it is not known whether pH-dependent unbinding of transport shuttles can be used to improve blood brain barrier transport efficiency. Methods A mouse transferrin receptor binding nanobody, NIH-mTfR-M1, was engineered to confer greater unbinding at pH 5.5 vs 7.4 by introducing multiple histidine mutations. The histidine mutant nanobodies were coupled to neurotensin for in vivo functional blood brain barrier transcytosis testing via central neurotensin-mediated hypothermia in wild-type mice. Multi-nanobody constructs including the mutant M1 R56H, P96H, Y102H and two copies of the P2X7 receptor-binding 13A7 nanobody were produced to test proof-of-concept macromolecular cargo transport in vivo using quantitatively verified capillary depleted brain lysates and in situ histology. Results The most effective histidine mutant, M1 R56H, P96H, Y102H -neurotensin, caused >8°C hypothermia after 25 nmol/kg intravenous injection. Levels of the heterotrimeric construct M1 56,96,102His -13A7-13A7 in capillary depleted brain lysates peaked at 1 hour and were 60% retained at 8 hours. A control construct with no brain targets was only 15% retained at 8 hours. Addition of the albumin-binding Nb80 nanobody to make M1 R56H, P96H, Y102H -13A7-13A7-Nb80 extended blood half-life from 21 minutes to 2.6 hours. At 30-60 minutes, biotinylated M1 R56H, P96H, Y102H -13A7-13A7-Nb80 was visualized in capillaries using in situ histochemistry, whereas at 2-16 hours it was detected in diffuse hippocampal and cortical cellular structures. Levels of M1 R56H, P96H, Y102H -13A7-13A7-Nb80 reached more than 3.5 percent injected dose/gram of brain tissue after 30 nmol/kg intravenous injection. However, higher injected concentrations did not result in higher brain levels, compatible with saturation and an apparent substrate inhibitory effect. Conclusion The pH-sensitive mouse transferrin receptor binding nanobody M1 R56H, P96H, Y102H may be a useful tool for rapid and efficient modular transport of diagnostic and therapeutic macromolecular cargos across the blood brain barrier in mouse models. Additional development will be required to determine whether this nanobody-based shuttle system will be useful for imaging and fast-acting therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J. Esparza
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Shiran Su
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | | | - Elvira Rodionova
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Joong Hee Kim
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - David L. Brody
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
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Ou A, Wang Y, Zhang J, Huang Y. Living Cells and Cell-Derived Vesicles: A Trojan Horse Technique for Brain Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041257. [PMID: 37111742 PMCID: PMC10145830 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain diseases remain a significant global healthcare burden. Conventional pharmacological therapy for brain diseases encounters huge challenges because of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) limiting the delivery of therapeutics into the brain parenchyma. To address this issue, researchers have explored various types of drug delivery systems. Cells and cell derivatives have attracted increasing interest as "Trojan horse" delivery systems for brain diseases, owing to their superior biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and BBB penetration properties. This review provided an overview of recent advancements in cell- and cell-derivative-based delivery systems for the diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases. Additionally, it discussed the challenges and potential solutions for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ante Ou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuewei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yongzhuo Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan 528437, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients, Shanghai 201203, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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Gareev K, Tagaeva R, Bobkov D, Yudintceva N, Goncharova D, Combs SE, Ten A, Samochernych K, Shevtsov M. Passing of Nanocarriers across the Histohematic Barriers: Current Approaches for Tumor Theranostics. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:1140. [PMID: 37049234 PMCID: PMC10096980 DOI: 10.3390/nano13071140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Over the past several decades, nanocarriers have demonstrated diagnostic and therapeutic (i.e., theranostic) potencies in translational oncology, and some agents have been further translated into clinical trials. However, the practical application of nanoparticle-based medicine in living organisms is limited by physiological barriers (blood-tissue barriers), which significantly hampers the transport of nanoparticles from the blood into the tumor tissue. This review focuses on several approaches that facilitate the translocation of nanoparticles across blood-tissue barriers (BTBs) to efficiently accumulate in the tumor. To overcome the challenge of BTBs, several methods have been proposed, including the functionalization of particle surfaces with cell-penetrating peptides (e.g., TAT, SynB1, penetratin, R8, RGD, angiopep-2), which increases the passing of particles across tissue barriers. Another promising strategy could be based either on the application of various chemical agents (e.g., efflux pump inhibitors, disruptors of tight junctions, etc.) or physical methods (e.g., magnetic field, electroporation, photoacoustic cavitation, etc.), which have been shown to further increase the permeability of barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Gareev
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Department of Micro and Nanoelectronics, Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University “LETI”, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ruslana Tagaeva
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Danila Bobkov
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Natalia Yudintceva
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Daria Goncharova
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Stephanie E. Combs
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technishe Universität München (TUM), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Artem Ten
- Institute of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Far Eastern Federal University, 690922 Vladivostok, Russia
| | - Konstantin Samochernych
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Maxim Shevtsov
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 194064 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Personalized Medicine Centre, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 2 Akkuratova Str., 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technishe Universität München (TUM), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Institute of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Far Eastern Federal University, 690922 Vladivostok, Russia
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Pardridge WM. Brain gene therapy with Trojan horse lipid nanoparticles. Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:343-353. [PMID: 36907687 PMCID: PMC10005896 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 mRNA vaccine was developed by the scalable manufacture of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) that encapsulate mRNA within the lipid. There are many potential applications for this large nucleic acid delivery technology, including the delivery of plasmid DNA for gene therapy. However, gene therapy for the brain requires LNP delivery across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). It is proposed that LNPs could be reformulated for brain delivery by conjugation of receptor-specific monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) to the LNP surface. The MAb acts as a molecular Trojan horse to trigger receptor-mediated transcytosis (RMT) of the LNP across the BBB and subsequent localization to the nucleus for transcription of the therapeutic gene. Trojan horse LNPs could enable new approaches to gene therapy of the brain.
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Chua GL, Tan BC, Loke RYJ, He M, Chin CF, Wong BH, Kuk ACY, Ding M, Wenk MR, Guan L, Torta F, Silver DL. Mfsd2a utilizes a flippase mechanism to mediate omega-3 fatty acid lysolipid transport. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2215290120. [PMID: 36848557 PMCID: PMC10013850 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2215290120] [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: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Major Facilitator Superfamily Domain containing 2a (Mfsd2a) is a sodium-dependent lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) transporter expressed at the blood-brain barrier that constitutes the main pathway by which the brain obtains omega-3 fatty acids, such as docosahexanoic acid. Mfsd2a deficiency in humans results in severe microcephaly, underscoring the importance of LPC transport by Mfsd2a for brain development. Biochemical studies and recent cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of Mfsd2a bound to LPC suggest that Mfsd2a transports LPC via an alternating access mechanism between outward-facing and inward-facing conformational states in which the LPC inverts during transport between the outer and inner leaflet of a membrane. However, direct biochemical evidence of flippase activity by Mfsd2a has not been demonstrated and it is not understood how Mfsd2a could invert LPC between the outer and inner leaflet of the membrane in a sodium-dependent manner. Here, we established a unique in vitro assay using recombinant Mfsd2a reconstituted in liposomes that exploits the ability of Mfsd2a to transport lysophosphatidylserine (LPS) coupled with a small molecule LPS binding fluorophore that allowed for monitoring of directional flipping of the LPS headgroup from the outer to the inner liposome membrane. Using this assay, we demonstrate that Mfsd2a flips LPS from the outer to the inner leaflet of a membrane bilayer in a sodium-dependent manner. Furthermore, using cryo-EM structures as guides together with mutagenesis and a cell-based transport assay, we identify amino acid residues important for Mfsd2a activity that likely constitute substrate interaction domains. These studies provide direct biochemical evidence that Mfsd2a functions as a lysolipid flippase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geok-Lin Chua
- Signature Research Program in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
| | - Bryan C. Tan
- Signature Research Program in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
| | - Randy Y. J. Loke
- Signature Research Program in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
| | - Menglan He
- Signature Research Program in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
| | - Cheen-Fei Chin
- Signature Research Program in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
| | - Bernice H. Wong
- Signature Research Program in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
| | - Alvin C. Y. Kuk
- Signature Research Program in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
| | - Mei Ding
- Singapore Lipidomics Incubator, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore117456, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore117596, Singapore
| | - Markus R. Wenk
- Singapore Lipidomics Incubator, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore117456, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore117596, Singapore
| | - Lan Guan
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX79430
| | - Federico Torta
- Singapore Lipidomics Incubator, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore117456, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore117596, Singapore
| | - David L. Silver
- Signature Research Program in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
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Pardridge WM. Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model of Brain Delivery of Plasma Protein Bound Drugs. Pharm Res 2023; 40:661-674. [PMID: 36829100 PMCID: PMC10036418 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-023-03484-2] [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] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model is developed that focuses on the kinetic parameters of drug association and dissociation with albumin, alpha-1 acid glycoprotein (AGP), and brain tissue proteins, as well as drug permeability at the blood-brain barrier, drug metabolism, and brain blood flow. GOAL The model evaluates the extent to which plasma protein-mediated uptake (PMU) of drugs by brain influences the concentration of free drug both within the brain capillary compartment in vivo and the brain compartment. The model also studies the effect of drug binding to brain tissue proteins on the concentration of free drug in brain. METHODS The steady state and non-steady state PBPK models are comprised of 11-12 variables, and 18-23 parameters, respectively. Two model drugs are analyzed: propranolol, which undergoes modest PMU from the AGP-bound pool, and imipramine, which undergoes a high degree of PMU from both the albumin-bound and AGP-bound pools in plasma. RESULTS The free propranolol concentration in brain is under-estimated 2- to fourfold by in vitro measurements of free plasma propranolol, and the free imipramine concentration in brain is under-estimated by 18- to 31-fold by in vitro measurements of free imipramine in plasma. The free drug concentration in brain in vivo is independent of drug binding to brain tissue proteins. CONCLUSIONS In vitro measurement of free drug concentration in plasma under-estimates the free drug in brain in vivo if PMU in vivo from either the albumin and/or the AGP pools in plasma takes place at the BBB surface.
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Intrathecal Pseudodelivery of Drugs in the Therapy of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Rationale, Basis and Potential Applications. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030768. [PMID: 36986629 PMCID: PMC10059785 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrathecal pseudodelivery of drugs is a novel route to administer medications to treat neurodegenerative diseases based on the CSF-sink therapeutic strategy by means of implantable devices. While the development of this therapy is still in the preclinical stage, it offers promising advantages over traditional routes of drug delivery. In this paper, we describe the rationale of this system and provide a technical report on the mechanism of action, that relies on the use of nanoporous membranes enabling selective molecular permeability. On one side, the membranes do not permit the crossing of certain drugs; whereas, on the other side, they permit the crossing of target molecules present in the CSF. Target molecules, by binding drugs inside the system, are retained or cleaved and subsequently eliminated from the central nervous system. Finally, we provide a list of potential indications, the respective molecular targets, and the proposed therapeutic agents.
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Abballe L, Spinello Z, Antonacci C, Coppola L, Miele E, Catanzaro G, Miele E. Nanoparticles for Drug and Gene Delivery in Pediatric Brain Tumors' Cancer Stem Cells: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020505. [PMID: 36839827 PMCID: PMC9962005 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary malignant brain tumors are the most common solid neoplasm in childhood. Despite recent advances, many children affected by aggressive or metastatic brain tumors still present poor prognosis, therefore the development of more effective therapies is urgent. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been discovered and isolated in both pediatric and adult patients with brain tumors (e.g., medulloblastoma, gliomas and ependymoma). CSCs are a small clonal population of cancer cells responsible for brain tumor initiation, maintenance and progression, displaying resistance to conventional anticancer therapies. CSCs are characterized by a specific repertoire of surface markers and intracellular specific pathways. These unique features of CSCs biology offer the opportunity to build therapeutic approaches to specifically target these cells in the complex tumor bulk. Treatment of pediatric brain tumors with classical chemotherapeutic regimen poses challenges both for tumor location and for the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Lastly, the application of chemotherapy to a developing brain is followed by long-term sequelae, especially on cognitive abilities. Novel avenues are emerging in the therapeutic panorama taking advantage of nanomedicine. In this review we will summarize nanoparticle-based approaches and the efficacy that NPs have intrinsically demonstrated and how they are also decorated by biomolecules. Furthermore, we propose novel cargoes together with recent advances in nanoparticle design/synthesis with the final aim to specifically target the insidious CSCs population in the tumor bulk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana Abballe
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Cellular and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Zaira Spinello
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Celeste Antonacci
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Cellular and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Coppola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Ermanno Miele
- Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0H3, UK
| | - Giuseppina Catanzaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (G.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Evelina Miele
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Cellular and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (G.C.); (E.M.)
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Hamed R, Eyal AD, Berman E, Eyal S. In silico screening for clinical efficacy of antiseizure medications: Not all central nervous system drugs are alike. Epilepsia 2023; 64:311-319. [PMID: 36478573 PMCID: PMC10107105 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Roaa Hamed
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Amit David Eyal
- Computational Medicine Program, School of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Erez Berman
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Sara Eyal
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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Experimental Models of In Vitro Blood-Brain Barrier for CNS Drug Delivery: An Evolutionary Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032710. [PMID: 36769032 PMCID: PMC9916529 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) disorders represent one of the leading causes of global health burden. Nonetheless, new therapies approved against these disorders are among the lowest compared to their counterparts. The absence of reliable and efficient in vitro blood-brain barrier (BBB) models resembling in vivo barrier properties stands out as a significant roadblock in developing successful therapy for CNS disorders. Therefore, advancement in the creation of robust and sensitive in vitro BBB models for drug screening might allow us to expedite neurological drug development. This review discusses the major in vitro BBB models developed as of now for exploring the barrier properties of the cerebral vasculature. Our main focus is describing existing in vitro models, including the 2D transwell models covering both single-layer and co-culture models, 3D organoid models, and microfluidic models with their construction, permeability measurement, applications, and limitations. Although microfluidic models are better at recapitulating the in vivo properties of BBB than other models, significant gaps still exist for their use in predicting the performance of neurotherapeutics. However, this comprehensive account of in vitro BBB models can be useful for researchers to create improved models in the future.
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Pineda E, Domenech M, Hernández A, Comas S, Balaña C. Recurrent Glioblastoma: Ongoing Clinical Challenges and Future Prospects. Onco Targets Ther 2023; 16:71-86. [PMID: 36721854 PMCID: PMC9884437 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s366371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Virtually all glioblastomas treated in the first-line setting will recur in a short period of time, and the search for alternative effective treatments has so far been unsuccessful. Various obstacles remain unresolved, and no effective salvage therapy for recurrent glioblastoma can be envisaged in the short term. One of the main impediments to progress is the low incidence of the disease itself in comparison with other pathologies, which will be made even lower by the recent WHO classification of gliomas, which includes molecular alterations. This new classification helps refine patient prognosis but does not clarify the most appropriate treatment. Other impediments are related to clinical trials: glioblastoma patients are often excluded from trials due to their advanced age and limiting neurological symptoms; there is also the question of how best to measure treatment efficacy, which conditions the design of trials and can affect the acceptance of results by oncologists and medicine agencies. Other obstacles are related to the drugs themselves: most treatments cannot cross the blood-brain-barrier or the brain-to-tumor barrier to reach therapeutic drug levels in the tumor without producing toxicity; the drugs under study may have adverse metabolic interactions with those required for symptom control; identifying the target of the drug can be a complex issue. Additionally, the optimal method of treatment - local vs systemic therapy, the choice of chemotherapy, irradiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination thereof - is not yet clear in glioblastoma in comparison with other cancers. Finally, in addition to curing or stabilizing the disease, glioblastoma therapy should aim at maintaining the neurological status of the patients to enable them to return to their previous lifestyle. Here we review currently available treatments, obstacles in the search for new treatments, and novel lines of research that show promise for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estela Pineda
- Medical Oncology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Domenech
- Medical Oncology, Institut Catala d’Oncologia (ICO) Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ainhoa Hernández
- Medical Oncology, Institut Catala d’Oncologia (ICO) Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Comas
- Radiation Oncology, Institut Catala d’Oncologia (ICO) Badalona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Carmen Balaña
- Medical Oncology, Institut Catala d’Oncologia (ICO) Badalona, Barcelona, Spain,Correspondence: Carmen Balaña, Institut Catala d’Oncologia (ICO) Badalona, Carretera Canyet s/n, Badalona, 08916, Spain, Tel +34 497 89 25, Fax +34 497 89 50, Email
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Furtado J, Geraldo LH, Leser FS, Poulet M, Park H, Pibouin-Fragner L, Eichmann A, Boyé K. Netrin-1 binding to Unc5B regulates Blood-Retina Barrier integrity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.21.525006. [PMID: 36711611 PMCID: PMC9882365 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.21.525006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Background The blood brain barrier (BBB) preserves neuronal function in the central nervous system (CNS) by tightly controlling metabolite exchanges with the blood. In the eye, the retina is likewise protected by the blood-retina barrier (BRB) to maintain phototransduction. We showed that the secreted guidance cue Netrin-1 regulated BBB integrity, by binding to endothelial Unc5B and regulating canonical β-catenin dependent expression of BBB gene expression. Objective Here, we investigated if Netrin-1-binding to endothelial Unc5B also controlled BRB integrity, and if this process involved Norrin/β-catenin signaling, which is the major known driver of BRB development and maintenance. Methods We analyzed Tamoxifen-inducible loss- and gain- of-function alleles of Unc5B, Ntn1 and Ctnnb1 in conjunction with tracer injections and biochemical signaling studies. Results Inducible endothelial Unc5B deletion, and inducible global Ntn1 deletion in postnatal mice reduced phosphorylation of the Norrin receptor LRP5, leading to reduced β-catenin and LEF1 expression, conversion of retina endothelial cells from a barrier-competent Claudin-5+/PLVAP- state to a Claudin-5-/PLVAP+ leaky phenotype, and extravasation of injected low molecular weight tracers. Inducible Ctnnb1 gain of function rescued vascular leak in Unc5B mutants, and Ntn1 overexpression induced BRB tightening. Unc5B expression in pericytes contributed to BRB permeability, via regulation of endothelial Unc5B. Mechanistically, Netrin-1-Unc5B signaling promoted β-catenin dependent BRB signaling by enhancing phosphorylation of the Norrin receptor LRP5 via the Discs large homologue 1 (Dlg1) intracellular scaffolding protein. Conclusions The data identify Netrin1-Unc5B as novel regulators of BRB integrity, with implications for diseases associated with BRB disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Furtado
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
| | - Luiz Henrique Geraldo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
| | | | - Mathilde Poulet
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Inserm U970, Université Paris, France
| | - Hyojin Park
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
| | | | - Anne Eichmann
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Inserm U970, Université Paris, France
| | - Kevin Boyé
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Inserm U970, Université Paris, France
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Tian T, Qiao S, Tannous BA. Nanotechnology-Inspired Extracellular Vesicles Theranostics for Diagnosis and Therapy of Central Nervous System Diseases. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:182-199. [PMID: 35929960 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c07981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Shuttling various bioactive substances across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) bidirectionally, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been opening new frontiers for the diagnosis and therapy of central nervous system (CNS) diseases. However, clinical translation of EV-based theranostics remains challenging due to difficulties in effective EV engineering for superior imaging/therapeutic potential, ultrasensitive EV detection for small sample volume, as well as scale-up and standardized EV production. In the past decade, continuous advancement in nanotechnology provided extensive concepts and strategies for EV engineering and analysis, which inspired the application of EVs for CNS diseases. Here we will review the existing types of EV-nanomaterial hybrid systems with improved diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy for CNS diseases. A summary of recent progress in the incorporation of nanomaterials and nanostructures in EV production, separation, and analysis will also be provided. Moreover, the convergence between nanotechnology and microfluidics for integrated EV engineering and liquid biopsy of CNS diseases will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Tian
- Department of Neurobiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
- Experimental Therapeutics and Molecular Imaging Unit, Department of Neurology, Neuro-Oncology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States
- Neuroscience Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States
| | - Shuya Qiao
- Department of Neurobiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Bakhos A Tannous
- Experimental Therapeutics and Molecular Imaging Unit, Department of Neurology, Neuro-Oncology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States
- Neuroscience Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States
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Nielsen SSE, Holst MR, Langthaler K, Bruun EH, Brodin B, Nielsen MS. Apicobasal transferrin receptor localization and trafficking in brain capillary endothelial cells. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:2. [PMID: 36624498 PMCID: PMC9830855 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-022-00404-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The detailed mechanisms by which the transferrin receptor (TfR) and associated ligands traffic across brain capillary endothelial cells (BECs) of the CNS-protective blood-brain barrier constitute an important knowledge gap within maintenance and regulation of brain iron homeostasis. This knowledge gap also presents a major obstacle in research aiming to develop strategies for efficient receptor-mediated drug delivery to the brain. While TfR-mediated trafficking from blood to brain have been widely studied, investigation of TfR-mediated trafficking from brain to blood has been limited. In this study we investigated TfR distribution on the apical and basal plasma membranes of BECs using expansion microscopy, enabling sufficient resolution to separate the cellular plasma membranes of these morphological flat cells, and verifying both apical and basal TfR membrane domain localization. Using immunofluorescence-based transcellular transport studies, we delineated endosomal sorting of TfR endocytosed from the apical and basal membrane, respectively, as well as bi-directional TfR transcellular transport capability. The findings indicate different intracellular sorting mechanisms of TfR, depending on the apicobasal trafficking direction across the BBB, with the highest transcytosis capacity in the brain-to-blood direction. These results are of high importance for the current understanding of brain iron homeostasis. Also, the high level of TfR trafficking from the basal to apical membrane of BECs potentially explains the low transcytosis which are observed for the TfR-targeted therapeutics to the brain parenchyma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone S. E. Nielsen
- grid.7048.b0000 0001 1956 2722Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Mikkel R. Holst
- grid.7048.b0000 0001 1956 2722Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Kristine Langthaler
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XCNS Drug Delivery and Barrier Modelling, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.424580.f0000 0004 0476 7612Translational DMPK, H. Lundbeck A/S, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Helena Bruun
- grid.7048.b0000 0001 1956 2722Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Birger Brodin
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten S. Nielsen
- grid.7048.b0000 0001 1956 2722Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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