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Celastrol-loaded polymeric mixed micelles shows improved antitumor efficacy in 4 T1 bearing xenograft mouse model through spatial targeting. Int J Pharm 2024:124234. [PMID: 38763310 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124234] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we have proposed a novel approach that combines hyaluronic acid (HA), folic acid (FA), and celastrol (CLS) within a polymeric micelle system (HF-CLS/MLs), offering a dual-action strategy against breast cancer. Polymeric mixed micelles were prepared through the thin-film hydration method, and comprehensive quality control parameters were established, encompassing particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, surface morphology, encapsulation efficiency, drug content, in vitro drug release, and storage stability assessment. The average particle size of CLS-HF/MLs micelles was found to be 120 nm and their drug loading and encapsulation efficiencies were 15.9 % and 89.52 %, respectively. The in vitro release data showed that the CLS-HF/MLs targeted mixed micelles displayed a prolonged release profile compared to the free drug. Additionally, the stability of the developed polymeric mixed micelles was maintained for up to 8 weeks of storage in terms of particle size and drug content. Furthermore, both flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy studies indicated a significant enhancement in the cellular uptake efficiency and cytotoxicity of CLS-HF/MLs mixed micelles against MCF-7 cell line. In terms of pharmacokinetic analysis, the half-life and AUC values of CLS-HF/MLs mixed micelles were found to be approximately 4.71- and 7.36-folds higher than the values of free drug (CLS), respectively. The CLS-HF/MLs micelles exhibited remarkable antitumor efficacy (almost complete ablation of the 4 T1-cell bearing tumor xenografts mouse model) due to the dual receptor (CD44 and folate) targeting effects with minimal side effects. When considering the cumulative findings of our present research, it becomes evident that mixed micelles designed for chemotherapy offer a promising and potentially effective therapeutic avenue for the treatment of breast cancer.
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Medicinal Chemistry of Drugs with N-Oxide Functionalities. J Med Chem 2024; 67:5168-5184. [PMID: 38549449 PMCID: PMC11017254 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Molecules with N-oxide functionalities are omnipresent in nature and play an important role in Medicinal Chemistry. They are synthetic or biosynthetic intermediates, prodrugs, drugs, or polymers for applications in drug development and surface engineering. Typically, the N-oxide group is critical for biomedical applications of these molecules. It may provide water solubility or decrease membrane permeability or immunogenicity. In other cases, the N-oxide has a special redox reactivity which is important for drug targeting and/or cytotoxicity. Many of the underlying mechanisms have only recently been discovered, and the number of applications of N-oxides in the healthcare field is rapidly growing. This Perspective article gives a short summary of the properties of N-oxides and their synthesis. It also provides a discussion of current applications of N-oxides in the biomedical field and explains the basic molecular mechanisms responsible for their biological activity.
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Recent progress, perspectives, and issues of engineered PD-L1 regulation nano-system to better cure tumor: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127911. [PMID: 37939766 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Currently, immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies that target the programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) have been used as revolutionary cancer treatments in the clinic. Apart from restoring the antitumor response of cytotoxic T cells by blocking the interaction between PD-L1 on tumor cells and programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) on T cells, PD-L1 proteins were also newly revealed to possess the capacity to accelerate DNA damage repair (DDR) and enhance tumor growth through multiple mechanisms, leading to the impaired efficacy of tumor therapies. Nevertheless, current free anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy still suffered from poor therapeutic outcomes in most solid tumors due to the non-selective tumor accumulation, ineludible severe cytotoxic effects, as well as the common occurrence of immune resistance. Recently, nanoparticles with efficient tumor-targeting capacity, tumor-responsive prosperity, and versatility for combination therapy were identified as new avenues for PD-L1 targeting cancer immunotherapies. In this review, we first summarized the multiple functions of PD-L1 protein in promoting tumor growth, accelerating DDR, as well as depressing immunotherapy efficacy. Following this, the effects and mechanisms of current clinically widespread tumor therapies on tumor PD-L1 expression were discussed. Then, we reviewed the recent advances in nanoparticles for anti-PD-L1 therapy via using PD-L1 antibodies, small interfering RNA (siRNA), microRNA (miRNA), clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), peptide, and small molecular drugs. At last, we discussed the challenges and perspectives to promote the clinical application of nanoparticles-based PD-L1-targeting therapy.
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Therapeutic Supramolecular Polymers: Designs and Applications. Prog Polym Sci 2024; 148:101769. [PMID: 38188703 PMCID: PMC10769153 DOI: 10.1016/j.progpolymsci.2023.101769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The self-assembly of low-molecular-weight building motifs into supramolecular polymers has unlocked a new realm of materials with distinct properties and tremendous potential for advancing medical practices. Leveraging the reversible and dynamic nature of non-covalent interactions, these supramolecular polymers exhibit inherent responsiveness to their microenvironment, physiological cues, and biomolecular signals, making them uniquely suited for diverse biomedical applications. In this review, we intend to explore the principles of design, synthesis methodologies, and strategic developments that underlie the creation of supramolecular polymers as carriers for therapeutics, contributing to the treatment and prevention of a spectrum of human diseases. We delve into the principles underlying monomer design, emphasizing the pivotal role of non-covalent interactions, directionality, and reversibility. Moreover, we explore the intricate balance between thermodynamics and kinetics in supramolecular polymerization, illuminating strategies for achieving controlled sizes and distributions. Categorically, we examine their exciting biomedical applications: individual polymers as discrete carriers for therapeutics, delving into their interactions with cells, and in vivo dynamics; and supramolecular polymeric hydrogels as injectable depots, with a focus on their roles in cancer immunotherapy, sustained drug release, and regenerative medicine. As the field continues to burgeon, harnessing the unique attributes of therapeutic supramolecular polymers holds the promise of transformative impacts across the biomedical landscape.
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Melittin kills A549 cells by targeting mitochondria and blocking mitophagy flux. Redox Rep 2023; 28:2284517. [PMID: 38041592 PMCID: PMC11001274 DOI: 10.1080/13510002.2023.2284517] [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: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Melittin, a naturally occurring polypeptide found in bee venom, has been recognized for its potential anti-tumor effects, particularly in the context of lung cancer. Our previous study focused on its impact on human lung adenocarcinoma cells A549, revealing that melittin induces intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) burst and oxidative damage, resulting in cell death. Considering the significant role of mitochondria in maintaining intracellular redox levels and ROS, we further examined the involvement of mitochondrial damage in melittin-induced apoptosis in lung cancer cells. Our findings demonstrated that melittin caused changes in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), triggered mitochondrial ROS burst (Figure 1), and activated the mitochondria-related apoptosis pathway Bax/Bcl-2 by directly targeting mitochondria in A549 cells (Figure 2). Further, we infected A549 cells using a lentivirus that can express melittin-Myc and confirmed that melittin can directly target binding to mitochondria, causing the biological effects described above (Figure 2). Notably, melittin induced mitochondrial damage while inhibiting autophagy, resulting in abnormal degradation of damaged mitochondria (Figure 5). To summarize, our study unveils that melittin targets mitochondria, causing mitochondrial damage, and inhibits the autophagy-lysosomal degradation pathway. This process triggers mitoROS burst and ultimately activates the mitochondria-associated Bax/Bcl-2 apoptotic signaling pathways in A549 cells.
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Recent Advances in Nanotechnology-Based Targeted Delivery Systems of Active Constituents in Natural Medicines for Cancer Treatment. Molecules 2023; 28:7767. [PMID: 38067497 PMCID: PMC10708032 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237767] [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: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Owing to high efficacy and safety, natural medicines have found their way into the field of cancer therapy over the past few decades. However, the effective ingredients of natural medicines have shortcomings of poor solubility and low bioavailability. Nanoparticles can not only solve the problems above but also have outstanding targeting ability. Targeting preparations can be classified into three levels, which are target tissues, cells, and organelles. On the premise of clarifying the therapeutic purpose of drugs, one or more targeting methods can be selected to achieve more accurate drug delivery and consequently to improve the anti-tumor effects of drugs and reduce toxicity and side effects. The aim of this review is to summarize the research status of natural medicines' nano-preparations in tumor-targeting therapies to provide some references for further accurate and effective cancer treatments.
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Polyporus umbellatus polysaccharide iron-based nanocomposite for synergistic M1 polarization of TAMs and combinational anti-breast cancer therapy. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 251:126323. [PMID: 37586629 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126323] [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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
M1 polarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) is a promising approach to breaking through therapeutic barriers imposed by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). As a clinically-used immunopotentiator for cancer patients after chemotherapies; however, the immunomodulatory mechanism and potential of polyporus polysaccharide (PPS) remains unclear. Here, we present mannose-decorated PPS-loaded superparamagnetic iron-based nanocomposites (Man/PPS-SPIONs) for synergistic M1 polarization of TAMs and consequent combinational anti-breast cancer therapy. Once internalized by M2-like TAMs, PPS released from Man/PPS-SPIONs induces the M1 polarization via IFN-γ secretion and downstream NF-κB pathway activating. The SPIONs within the nanocomposites mediate a Fenton reaction, producing OH· and activating the subsequent NF-κB/MAPK pathway, further facilitating the M1 polarization. The Man/PPS-SPIONs thereby establish a positive feedback loop of M1 polarization driven by the "IFN-γ-Fenton-NF-κB/MAPK" multi-pathway, leading to a series of anti-tumoral immunologic responses in the TME and holding promising potential in combinational anticancer therapies. Our study offers a new strategy to amplify TME engineering by combinational natural carbohydrate polymers and iron-based materials.
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Stimulators of immunogenic cell death for cancer therapy: focusing on natural compounds. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:200. [PMID: 37705051 PMCID: PMC10500939 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03058-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence indicates that the anticancer effect of the immune system can be activated by the immunogenic modulation of dying cancer cells. Cancer cell death, as a result of the activation of an immunomodulatory response, is called immunogenic cell death (ICD). This regulated cell death occurs because of increased immunogenicity of cancer cells undergoing ICD. ICD plays a crucial role in stimulating immune system activity in cancer therapy. ICD can therefore be an innovative route to improve anticancer immune responses associated with releasing damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Several conventional and chemotherapeutics, as well as preclinically investigated compounds from natural sources, possess immunostimulatory properties by ICD induction. Natural compounds have gained much interest in cancer therapy owing to their low toxicity, low cost, and inhibiting cancer cells by interfering with different mechanisms, which are critical in cancer progression. Therefore, identifying natural compounds with ICD-inducing potency presents agents with promising potential in cancer immunotherapy. Naturally derived compounds are believed to act as immunoadjuvants because they elicit cancer stress responses and DAMPs. Acute exposure to DAMP molecules can activate antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as dendritic cells (DCs), which leads to downstream events by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and natural killer cells (NKs). Natural compounds as inducers of ICD may be an interesting approach to ICD induction; however, parameters that determine whether a compound can be used as an ICD inducer should be elucidated. Here, we aimed to discuss the impact of multiple ICD inducers, mainly focusing on natural agents, including plant-derived, marine molecules, and bacterial-based compounds, on the release of DAMP molecules and the activation of the corresponding signaling cascades triggering immune responses. In addition, the potential of synthetic agents for triggering ICD is also discussed.
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Functional Materials for Subcellular Targeting Strategies in Cancer Therapy: Progress and Prospects. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2305095. [PMID: 37665594 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies have made significant progress in cancer treatment. However, tumor adjuvant therapy still faces challenges due to the intrinsic heterogeneity of cancer, genomic instability, and the formation of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Functional materials possess unique biological properties such as long circulation times, tumor-specific targeting, and immunomodulation. The combination of functional materials with natural substances and nanotechnology has led to the development of smart biomaterials with multiple functions, high biocompatibilities, and negligible immunogenicities, which can be used for precise cancer treatment. Recently, subcellular structure-targeting functional materials have received particular attention in various biomedical applications including the diagnosis, sensing, and imaging of tumors and drug delivery. Subcellular organelle-targeting materials can precisely accumulate therapeutic agents in organelles, considerably reduce the threshold dosages of therapeutic agents, and minimize drug-related side effects. This review provides a systematic and comprehensive overview of the research progress in subcellular organelle-targeted cancer therapy based on functional nanomaterials. Moreover, it explains the challenges and prospects of subcellular organelle-targeting functional materials in precision oncology. The review will serve as an excellent cutting-edge guide for researchers in the field of subcellular organelle-targeted cancer therapy.
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Design and investigation of targeting agent orientation and density on nanoparticles for enhancing cellular uptake efficiency. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:8228-8240. [PMID: 37565424 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb01375h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The design of targeting agent-conjugated systems is attracting much attention in cell targeted delivery and cancer therapy. However, quantitative study of the ligand density and binding efficiency is still limited due to the technical matters and tedious work involved. In this article, benzoboroxole-modified core-shell magnetic nanoparticles (MSP-AOPB NPs) as a drug carrier model were fabricated and transferrin (Tf) was immobilized on the nanoparticle surface in a site-oriented manner (Tf-MSP-AOPB NPs). The preparation conditions were investigated in detail to optimize the Tf binding efficiency. A suitable reaction temperature, time or initial feeding amount could significantly increase the Tf binding amount. The maximum Tf binding amount on the MSP-AOPB NPs was 184 mg g-1, and the targeting ligand density on the surface could be well controlled by simply adjusting the reaction conditions. In vitro studies demonstrated the excellent Tf-mediated targeting ability and enhanced cellular uptake efficacy by varying the ligand density. The optimal ligand binding amount for achieving the highest cellular uptake efficiency was 94 mg Tf/g, which corresponds to a ligand binding density of about 0.05 Tf/nm2, and the binding efficiency of conjugation was higher than 90%. Moreover, Tf-MSP-AOPB NPs prepared by a site-oriented conjugation strategy showed the best cell targeting ability, and their cellular uptake amount was 25 and 127 times higher than that of physical adsorption and EDC/NHS coupling reaction in HepG2 cells, respectively. This study provides a facile site-oriented bioconjugation technique for different kinds of antibodies, and a suitable ligand density can be easily attained to enhance the cellular uptake efficacy, which shows great significance for targeted delivery and cancer therapy.
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Celastrol attenuates HFD-induced obesity and improves metabolic function independent of adiponectin signaling. Arch Physiol Biochem 2023:1-7. [PMID: 37642392 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2023.2250929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Backgound: Celastrol, a leptin sensitiser, has been shown to inhibit food intake and reduce body weight in diet-induced obese mice, making it a potential treatment for obesity and metabolic diseases. Adiponectin signalling has been reported to play an important role in the treatment of obesity, inflammation, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.Materials and methods: Wild-type (WT) and AdipoR1 knockout (AdipoR1-/-) mice were placed on a chow diet or a high-fat diet (HFD) and several metabolic parameters were measured. Celastrol was then administered to the HFD-induced mice and the response of WT and AdipoR1-/- mice to celastrol in terms of body weight, blood glucose, and food intake was also recorded.Results: AdipoR1 knockout caused elevated blood glucose and lipids, impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance in mice, as well as increased susceptibility to HFD-induced obesity. After 14 days of treatment, WT and AdipoR1-/- mice showed significant reductions in body weight and blood glucose and improvements in glucose tolerance.Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that AdipoR1 plays a critical role in metabolic regulation and that the improvement of weight and metabolic function by celastrol is independent of the AdipoR1-mediated signalling pathway.
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A celastrol-based nanodrug with reduced hepatotoxicity for primary and metastatic cancer treatment. EBioMedicine 2023; 94:104724. [PMID: 37480625 PMCID: PMC10393547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104724] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is the world's leading cause of death and a key hindrance to extending life expectancy. Celastrol, a bioactive compound derived from Tripterygium wilfordii, has been shown to have excellent antitumor activity, but its poor solubility and severe organ toxicity side effects have hampered its clinical application. METHODS In this study, a self-assembled nanodrug (PLC-NP) was designed to deliver celastrol to tumor sites while efficiently reducing its side effects by conjugating celastrol with the bioactive material LMWH and P-selectin targeting peptide (PSN). Extensive in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to investigate both therapeutic efficacy and adverse effects. Furthermore, the specific mechanism of the antitumor activity has also been explored. FINDING The PLC-NP nanodrugs were spherical in shape, with a mean particle size of 115.83 ± 6.93 nm. PLC-NP was sufficiently stable during blood circulation, with a selective target to P-selectin-highly expressed tumor cells, followed by releasing the containing celastrol under acidic environment and high levels of esterase in tumor cells. Both in vitro and in vivo results confirmed that celastrol's antitumor and anti-metastatic abilities were not attenuated and were actually strengthened after being formed into nanodrugs. More importantly, the organ toxicities of the modified celastrol nanodrug were dramatically reduced. Mechanistic study indicated that the inactivation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and ROS-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction play critical roles in celastrol-mediated autophagy and apoptosis. INTERPRETATION Our findings could offer a potential strategy for the translation of toxic compounds into clinical therapeutic nanomedicine. FUNDING See a detailed list of funding bodies in the Acknowledgements section at the end of the manuscript.
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Nanostructures in Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) for potential therapy. NANOSCALE HORIZONS 2023; 8:976-990. [PMID: 37278697 DOI: 10.1039/d3nh00120b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
With its long clinical history, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has gained acceptance for its specific efficacy and safety in the treatment of multiple diseases. Nano-sized materials study of Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) leads to an increased understanding of assessing TCM therapies, which may be a promising way to illustrate the material basis of CHMs through their processing and extraction. In this review, we provide an overview of the nanostructures of natural and engineered CHMs, including extracted CHMs, polymer nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, and nanofibers. Subsequently, the applications of these CHM-derived nanostructures to particular diseases are summarized and discussed. Additionally, we discuss the advantages of these nanostructures for studying the therapeutic efficacy of CHMs. Finally, the key challenges and opportunities for the development of these nanostructures are outlined.
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Formation of a traditional Chinese medicine self-assembly nanostrategy and its application in cancer: a promising treatment. Chin Med 2023; 18:66. [PMID: 37280646 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00764-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries to prevent and treat a variety of illnesses, and its popularity is increasing worldwide. However, the clinical applications of natural active components in TCM are hindered by the poor solubility and low bioavailability of these compounds. To address these issues, Chinese medicine self-assembly nanostrategy (CSAN) is being developed. Many active components of TCM possess self-assembly properties, allowing them to form nanoparticles (NPs) through various noncovalent forces. Self-assembled NPs (SANs) are also present in TCM decoctions, and they are closely linked to the therapeutic effects of these remedies. SAN is gaining popularity in the nano research field due to its simplicity, eco-friendliness, and enhanced biodegradability and biocompatibility compared to traditional nano preparation methods. The self-assembly of active ingredients from TCM that exhibit antitumour effects or are combined with other antitumour drugs has generated considerable interest in the field of cancer therapeutics. This paper provides a review of the principles and forms of CSAN, as well as an overview of recent reports on TCM that can be used for self-assembly. Additionally, the application of CSAN in various cancer diseases is summarized, and finally, a concluding summary and thoughts are proposed. We strongly believe that CSAN has the potential to offer fresh strategies and perspectives for the modernization of TCM.
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Cancer Immunotherapy Elicited by Immunogenic Cell Death Based on Smart Nanomaterials. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2201381. [PMID: 36609838 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202201381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has been a revolutionary cancer treatment modality because it can not only eliminate primary tumors but also prevent metastases and recurrent tumors. Immunogenic cell death (ICD) induced by various treatment modalities, including chemotherapy, phototherapy, and radiotherapy, converts dead cancer cells into therapeutic vaccines, eliciting a systemic antigen-specific antitumor. However, the outcome effect of cancer immunotherapy induced by ICD has been limited due to the low accumulation efficiency of ICD inducers in the tumor site and concomitant damage to normal tissues. The boom in smart nanomaterials is conducive to overcoming these hurdles owing to their virtues of good stability, targeted lesion site, high bioavailability, on-demand release, and good biocompatibility. Herein, the design of targeted nanomaterials, various ICD inducers, and the applications of nanomaterials responsive to different stimuli, including pH, enzymes, reactive oxygen species, or dual responses are summarized. Furthermore, the prospect and challenges are briefly outlined to provide reference and inspiration for designing novel smart nanomaterials for immunotherapy induced by ICD.
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Nanocarriers overcoming biological barriers induced by multidrug resistance of chemotherapeutics in 2D and 3D cancer models. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 68:100956. [PMID: 36958083 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.100956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is currently a big challenge in cancer therapy and limits its success in several patients. Tumors use the MDR mechanisms to colonize the host and reduce the efficacy of chemotherapeutics that are injected as single agents or combinations. MDR mechanisms are responsible for inactivation of drugs and formbiological barriers in cancer like the drug efflux pumps, aberrant extracellular matrix, hypoxic areas, altered cell death mechanisms, etc. Nanocarriers have some potential to overcome these barriers and improve the efficacy of chemotherapeutics. In fact, they are versatile and can deliver natural and synthetic biomolecules, as well as RNAi/DNAi, thus providing a controlled release of drugs and a synergistic effect in tumor tissues. Biocompatible and safe multifunctional biopolymers, with or without specific targeting molecules, modify the surface and interface properties of nanocarriers. These modifications affect the interaction of nanocarriers with cellular models as well as the selection of suitable models for in vitro experiments. MDR cancer cells, and particularly their 2D and 3D models, in combination with anatomical and physiological structures of tumor tissues, can boost the design and preparation of nanomedicines for anticancer therapy. 2D and 3D cancer cell cultures are suitable models to study the interaction, internalization, and efficacy of nanocarriers, the mechanisms of MDR in cancer cells and tissues, and they are used to tailor a personalized medicine and improve the efficacy of anticancer treatment in patients. The description of molecular mechanisms and physio-pathological pathways of these models further allow the design of nanomedicine that can efficiently overcome biological barriers involved in MDR and test the activity of nanocarriers in 2D and 3D models of MDR cancer cells.
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Engineering nanoparticles boost TNBC therapy by CD24 blockade and mitochondrial dynamics regulation. J Control Release 2023; 355:211-227. [PMID: 36736908 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.01.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Although cancer immunotherapy has achieved remarkable progress, the clinical treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is still tough to make a breakthrough. The unsatisfactory therapeutic effect may be attributed to the lack of tumor immunogenicity and the strong immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (ITM). In order to overcome the above shortcomings, engineering nanoparticles (P-aCD24/CEL + P/shMFN1) was designed to deliver anti-CD24 monoclonal antibody (aCD24), celastrol (CEL) and mitofusin 1 shRNA (shMFN1) for synergistic tumor cells-targeted treatment and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs)-targeted immunomodulation. CD24, highly expressed on tumor cells, interacts with Siglec10 on TAMs to protect tumor cells from phagocytosis by macrophages, and thus has become a novel and dominant immune checkpoint in TNBC. P-aCD24/CEL achieved the release of aCD24 based on the dual response of carrier to pH and MMP2 in tumor microenvironment. Moreover, CEL increased "eat me" signal CRT and induced the immunogenic cell death (ICD) of tumor cells, together with decreased "don't eat me" signal CD24, reactivated macrophage phagocytosis of tumor cells, and ultimately improves the macrophage-based immunotherapy. On the other hand, P/shMFN1 could target TAMs for mitochondrial dynamics regulation via durable MFN1 silencing in TAMs, thereby reversing the phenotype of M2-TAMs. P-aCD24/CEL and P/shMFN1 could synergistically elicit evident antitumor immune responses and long-term immune memory to significantly inhibit tumor progress and postoperative recurrence. Based on remodeling the ITM and increasing antitumor immune response, this combination immunotherapy strategy showed great potential for TNBC treatment.
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The therapeutic potential of triptolide and celastrol in neurological diseases. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1024955. [PMID: 36339550 PMCID: PMC9626530 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1024955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological diseases are complex diseases affecting the brain and spinal cord, with numerous etiologies and pathogenesis not yet fully elucidated. Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F. (TWHF) is a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of medicinal use in China and is widely used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. With the rapid development of modern technology, the two main bioactive components of TWHF, triptolide and celastrol, have been found to have anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive and anti-tumor effects and can be used in the treatment of a variety of diseases, including neurological diseases. In this paper, we summarize the preclinical studies of triptolide and celastrol in neurological diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, brain and spinal cord injury, and epilepsy. In addition, we review the mechanisms of action of triptolide and celastrol in neurological diseases, their toxicity, related derivatives, and nanotechnology-based carrier system.
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Application of advanced technology in traditional Chinese medicine for cancer therapy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1038063. [PMID: 36313284 PMCID: PMC9606699 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1038063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Although cancer has seriously threatened people’s health, it is also identified by the World Health Organization as a controllable, treatable and even curable chronic disease. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been extensively used to treat cancer due to its multiple targets, minimum side effects and potent therapeutic effects, and thus plays an important role in all stages of tumor therapy. With the continuous progress in cancer treatment, the overall efficacy of cancer therapy has been significantly improved, and the survival time of patients has been dramatically prolonged. In recent years, a series of advanced technologies, including nanotechnology, gene editing technology, real-time cell-based assay (RTCA) technology, and flow cytometry analysis technology, have been developed and applied to study TCM for cancer therapy, which efficiently improve the medicinal value of TCM and accelerate the research progress of TCM in cancer therapy. Therefore, the applications of these advanced technologies in TCM for cancer therapy are summarized in this review. We hope this review will provide a good guidance for TCM in cancer therapy.
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