1
|
Pillai K, Akhter J, Mekkawy AH, Valle SJ, Morris DL. Development and Validation of Micro-Azocasein Assay for Quantifying Bromelain. Methods Protoc 2024; 7:25. [PMID: 38525783 PMCID: PMC10961761 DOI: 10.3390/mps7020025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The proteolytic activity of enzymes may be evaluated by a colorimetric method with azocasein. Hence, we developed a micro-assay to quantify bromelain using azocasein. A total of 250 µL of 1.0% azocasein in dH2O was added to 250 µL of test solution, vortexed and incubated at ambient room temperature/30 min. The reaction was terminated with 1500 µL of 5% trichloroacetic acid, vortexed and centrifuged. A total of 150 µL of 0.5M NaOH was added to 150 µL of supernatant in triplicates, and absorbance was recorded at 410 nm. The linearity of the calibration curve was tested with 200-800 µg/mL serial dilutions. The detection limit, precision, accuracy, and robustness were tested along with the substrate enzyme reaction time and solvent matrix effect. Good linearity was seen with serially diluted 200 µg/mL bromelain. The limit of quantification and limit of detection were 5.412 and 16.4 µg/mL, respectively. Intra-day and inter-day analyses showed a relative standard deviation below 2.0%. The assay was robust when tested over 400-450 nm wavelengths. The assays performed using dH2O or PBS diluents indicated a higher sensitivity in dH2O. The proteolytic activity of bromelain was enhanced with L-cysteine or N-acetylcysteine. Hence, this micro-azocasein assay is reliable for quantifying bromelain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Pillai
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (K.P.); (J.A.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Javed Akhter
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (K.P.); (J.A.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Ahmed H. Mekkawy
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (K.P.); (J.A.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- St. George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Sarah J. Valle
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (K.P.); (J.A.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Intensive Care Unit, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - David L. Morris
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (K.P.); (J.A.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- St. George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mekkawy AH, Breakeit M, Pillai K, Badar S, Akhter J, Valle SJ, Morris DL. Intraperitoneal BromAc ® Does Not Interfere with the Healing of Colon Anastomosis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3321. [PMID: 37444430 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A combination of bromelain and acetylcysteine, BromAc®, is an efficient intraperitoneal mucolytic for thick mucus secreted in pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP). Patients with PMP quite often undergo colon anastomosis. Hence, we investigated the effect of the intraperitoneal delivery of BromAc® on colon-anastomosis healing in a rat model. Sixteen Wistar rats were divided into two groups (N = 8). The controls received intraperitoneal saline after anastomosis, whilst the other group received BromAc®. They were monitored for body-weight and general health parameters. Half the rats in each group (N = 4) were culled at 4 or 13 days post-surgery for assessment. The healing process of the tissues was assessed by burst pressure and collagen density with histology to assess the integrity of the internal organs. The results indicated that there was a similar pattern of weight fluctuation during the experiment, although the rats treated with the BromAc® showed slightly greater weight loss during the first 4 days. Although the burst pressure was similar in both groups, the BromAc® group at day 13 showed a slightly higher burst pressure, which was complemented by a higher collagen density (albeit not statistically significant). The histology of the internal organs was comparable to those of the controls. This study indicates that the intraperitoneal delivery of BromAc® in a rat model does not interfere with the healing process of colonic anastomosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- St George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Mohammad Breakeit
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Krishna Pillai
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Samina Badar
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- St George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Javed Akhter
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Sarah J Valle
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Intensive Care Unit, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - David L Morris
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- St George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Pillai K, Mekkawy AH, Akhter J, Morris DL. Effect of Nebulized BromAc on Rheology of Artificial Sputum: Relevance to Muco-Obstructive Respiratory Diseases. Adv Respir Med 2023; 91:146-163. [PMID: 37102780 PMCID: PMC10135762 DOI: 10.3390/arm91020013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis, COPD, and COVID-19 are difficult to treat owing to viscous secretions in the airways that evade mucocilliary clearance. Earlier studies have shown success with BromAc as a mucolytic agent. Hence, we tested the formulation on two gelatinous airway representative sputa models, to determine whether similar efficacy exist. Sputum lodged in an endotracheal tube was treated to aerosol N-acetylcysteine, bromelain, or their combination (BromAc). After measuring the particle size of aerosolized BromAc, the apparent viscosity was measured using a capillary tube method, whilst the sputum flow was assessed using a 0.5 mL pipette. Further, the concentration of the agents in the sputa after treatment were quantified using chromogenic assays. The interaction index of the different formulations was also determined. Results indicated that the mean particle size of BromAc was suitable for aerosol delivery. Bromelain and N-acetylcysteine affected both the viscosities and pipette flow in the two sputa models. BromAc showed a greater rheological effect on both the sputa models compared to individual agents. Further, a correlation was found between the rheological effects and the concentration of agents in the sputa. The combination index using viscosity measurements showed synergy only with 250 µg/mL bromelain + 20 mg/mL NAC whilst flow speed showed synergy for both combinations of bromelain (125 and 250 µg/mL) with 20 mg/mL NAC. Hence, this study indicates that BromAc may be used as a successful mucolytic for clearing airway congestion caused by thick mucinous immobile secretions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Pillai
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Ahmed H. Mekkawy
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Javed Akhter
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - David L. Morris
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- St George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ke K, Pillai K, Mekkawy AH, Akhter J, Badar S, Valle SJ, Morris DL. Physical and chemical factors affecting the loading and release of bromelain from DC beads. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:7135-7146. [PMID: 36398211 PMCID: PMC9641495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Doxorubicin loaded DC beads (microspheres) has been used for treating un-resectable tumours by transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). We have shown that bromelain, an enzyme from the pineapple plant, enhances the cytotoxic effect of a number of chemotherapeutic drugs and in an earlier study we have demonstrated that it can be loaded into DC beads. Therefore, in the current study we have investigated how certain physical and chemical parameters affect its loading and release for future development of DC beads in cancer therapy. Aliquots of 40-60 µL of DC beads (100-300 µm) were treated to bromelain in distilled water and various parameters such as pH of solution, bromelain concentration, temperature, loading period, presence/absence of agitation and the cytotoxic effect of bromelain loaded beads were investigated. Further release kinetics was also studied with additional investigation of pH effect on the proteolytic activity of bromelain. Results indicate that higher loading of bromelin was achieved in the beads at lower pH, higher concentration of bromelain, with agitation, 24 hours loading and ambient room temperature. Proteolytic activity of bromelain was maximal at pH 4.5 whilst cytotoxicity was at par if not better in the bromelain loaded DC beads. Release kinetics indicated that bromelain can be delivered over several hours. Hence, we conclude that bromelain can be loaded more efficiently with manipulation of certain parameters with noticeable cytotoxicity in tumour cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Ke
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
- University of New South Wales, St George & Sutherland Clinical SchoolSydney NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Krishna Pillai
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Javed Akhter
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Samina Badar
- University of New South Wales, St George & Sutherland Clinical SchoolSydney NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Sarah J Valle
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - David L Morris
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
- University of New South Wales, St George & Sutherland Clinical SchoolSydney NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Dong L, Ke K, Badar S, Mekkawy AH, Akhter J, Pillai K, Carter CJ, Morris DL. A novel method for potentiation of chemotherapy in soft tissue sarcomas with BromAc. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:2894-2909. [PMID: 35702130 PMCID: PMC9185037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Single-agent doxorubicin currently forms part of standard care for patients with sarcomas. However, efficacy is limited by the presence of dose-dependent cardiotoxicity and toxicity to renal, hepatic, and neurological systems. Therefore, there is a pressing need for novel drug regimens which can provide increased efficacy and safety. BromAc is a novel drug combination developed as a mucolytic agent which has demonstrated anticancer activity both in vitro and in vivo in several cancers. Here, we investigated the efficacy of BromAc in combination with doxorubicin for four subtypes of sarcoma. Cell proliferation, alongside western blot for a variety of cell cycle, apoptosis, and autophagy biomarkers assays was performed following treatment of cell lines in vitro at various concentrations of BromAc and doxorubicin. The impact of drug treatment on MUC1 and MUC4 levels was assessed through immune-cytological methods. Drug agent synergy was assessed through the Chou-Talalay framework. BromAc treatment in combination with doxorubicin was more efficacious than single-agent doxorubicin, with synergistic effects observed. The immuno-cytological analysis demonstrated significant mucin depletion following treatment with BromAc and doxorubicin used in combination, providing a potential mechanistic underpinning for the observed anticancer effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lillian Dong
- University of New South Wales, St. George & Sutherland Clinical SchoolSydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Kevin Ke
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| | - Samina Badar
- University of New South Wales, St. George & Sutherland Clinical SchoolSydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| | - Javed Akhter
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| | - Krishna Pillai
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| | - Carly J Carter
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| | - David L Morris
- University of New South Wales, St. George & Sutherland Clinical SchoolSydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Carter CJ, Mekkawy AH, Morris DL. Role of human nucleoside transporters in pancreatic cancer and chemoresistance. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:6844-6860. [PMID: 34790010 PMCID: PMC8567477 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i40.6844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The prognosis of pancreatic cancer is poor with the overall 5-year survival rate of less than 5% changing minimally over the past decades and future projections predicting it developing into the second leading cause of cancer related mortality within the next decade. Investigations into the mechanisms of pancreatic cancer development, progression and acquired chemoresistance have been constant for the past few decades, thus resulting in the identification of human nucleoside transporters and factors affecting cytotoxic uptake via said transporters. This review summaries the aberrant expression and role of human nucleoside transports in pancreatic cancer, more specifically human equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1/2 (hENT1, hENT2), and human concentrative nucleoside transporter 1/3 (hCNT1, hCNT3), while briefly discussing the connection and importance between these nucleoside transporters and mucins that have also been identified as being aberrantly expressed in pancreatic cancer. The review also discusses the incidence, current diagnostic techniques as well as the current therapeutic treatments for pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, we address the importance of chemoresistance in nucleoside analogue drugs, in particular, gemcitabine and we discuss prospective therapeutic treatments and strategies for overcoming acquired chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer by the enhancement of human nucleoside transporters as well as the potential targeting of mucins using a combination of mucolytic compounds with cytotoxic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carly Jade Carter
- Hepatobiliary and Surgical Oncology Unit, Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2217, New South Wales, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd, Australia
| | - Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Hepatobiliary and Surgical Oncology Unit, Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2217, New South Wales, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd, Australia
| | - David L Morris
- Hepatobiliary and Surgical Oncology Unit, Department of Surgery, St George Hospital, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2217, New South Wales, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ke K, Pillai K, Mekkawy AH, Akhter J, Badar S, Valle SJ, Morris DL. The effect of intraperitoneal administration of BromAc on blood parameters: phase 1 study. Discov Oncol 2021; 12:25. [PMID: 35201475 PMCID: PMC8777505 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-021-00418-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Intraperitoneal administration of BromAc (bromelain + acetylcysteine) is currently undergoing a phase 1 clinical trial for pseudomyxoma peritonei at our institution. This study reports on analysis of routine blood parameters before and after treatment for a series of 25 patients in this trial. Blood parameters assessed included full blood count, electrolytes, urea, and creatinine, liver function tests, coagulation studies, as well as inflammatory markers (CRP). Certain parameters such as CRP, and white cell count, were significantly elevated after treatment whilst serum albumin level was reduced indicating an inflammatory reaction. However, liver enzymes, coagulation studies, and other parameters were not affected. Therefore, there are no additional safety signals evident upon analysis of routine blood parameter testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Ke
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
| | - Krishna Pillai
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
| | - Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
| | - Javed Akhter
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
| | - Samina Badar
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
- St George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2217, Australia
| | - Sarah J Valle
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia
| | - David L Morris
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia.
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia.
- St George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2217, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bahrami F, Mekkawy AH, Badar S, Morris DL, Pourgholami MH. Monepantel antitumor activity is mediated through inhibition of major cell cycle and tumor growth signaling pathways. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:3098-3110. [PMID: 34249447 PMCID: PMC8263694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In women, epithelial ovarian cancer is the leading cause of gynaecological malignancy-related deaths. Development of resistance to standard platinum and taxane based chemotherapy and recurrence of the disease necessitate development of novel drugs to halt disease progression. An established concept is to target molecular and signaling pathways that substantially contribute to development of drug resistance and disease progression. We have previously shown that, monepantel (MPL) a novel small molecule acetonitrile derivative is highly effective in suppressing growth, proliferation and colony formation of ovarian cancer cells. These effects are achieved through inhibition of the mTOR/p70S6K pathway in cancer cells. The present study was conducted to find in vivo corroboration and explore the effect of MPL om other growth stimulating putative signaling pathways. Here, female nude mice with subcutaneous OVCAR-3 xenografts were treated with 25 and 50 mg/kg doses of MPL administered (IP) three times weekly for 2 weeks. At the doses employed, MPL was modestly effective at suppressing tumor growth, but highly effective in inhibiting, mTOR, P70S6K and 4EBP1. There were also modest reductions in tumor cyclin D1 and retinoblastoma protein expression. Furthermore, it was found that MPL treatment causes down-regulation of IGF-1R, and c-MYC thus unveiling new dimensions to the growing antitumor actions of this potential anticancer drug. MPL treatment led to reduced tumor volume and weights without causing any detectable side effects. Coupled with the recent human safety data published on this molecule, expanded future trials are highly anticipated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Bahrami
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Laboratory, University of New South Wales, St George Hospital SydneyAustralia
| | - Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Laboratory, University of New South Wales, St George Hospital SydneyAustralia
| | - Samina Badar
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Laboratory, University of New South Wales, St George Hospital SydneyAustralia
| | - David L Morris
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Laboratory, University of New South Wales, St George Hospital SydneyAustralia
| | - Mohammad H Pourgholami
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Laboratory, University of New South Wales, St George Hospital SydneyAustralia
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares UniversityTehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mekkawy AH, Pillai K, Badar S, Akhter J, Ke K, Valle SJ, Morris DL. Addition of bromelain and acetylcysteine to gemcitabine potentiates tumor inhibition in vivo in human colon cancer cell line LS174T. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:2252-2263. [PMID: 34094682 PMCID: PMC8167695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The combinations of Bromelain and Acetylcysteine (BromAc®) with cytotoxics such as Gemcitabine, 5-Fluorouracil or Oxaliplatin have shown a dramatic reduction in IC50 values in a variety of cancers, including colon cancer, suggesting the possibility of effective treatment without undesired side effects. In the current study, we investigated whether a similar effect is present in vivo using the colorectal cell line LS174T. Animals after acclimatization were randomized and allocated equally in the groups for the different studies (safety, dose-escalation, and efficacy). Drugs were delivered by the intraperitoneal route and animals were monitored for wellbeing. Separately, an efficacy study was conducted with intraperitoneal drug delivery after intraperitoneal tumor induction. At the termination of the experiment, tumors and other tissues were collected for evaluation. BromAc® was safe when delivered intraperitoneally in a rat model at the concentrations used. Subsequent investigations of these adjuvants in combination with Gemcitabine, Oxaliplatin, and 5-Fluorouracil in mice were also proven to be safe. Preliminary efficacy studies with Oxaliplatin and 5-Fluorouracil on tumor growth (LS174T) were negative. Gemcitabine was assessed with BromAc® showing an almost 71% tumor inhibition compared to controls. This in vivo study indicates that Gemcitabine at 2 mg/kg in combination with BromAc® 3 mg/300 mg/Kg was effective and safe, supporting its potential for future clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
- University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Krishna Pillai
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| | - Samina Badar
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Javed Akhter
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| | - Kevin Ke
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
- University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Sarah J Valle
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
- University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - David L Morris
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
- University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Badar S, Azarkan M, Mekkawy AH, Akhter J, Pillai K, El Mahyaoui R, Ke K, Cavanaugh L, Morris DL. Comparison of proteolytic, cytotoxic and anticoagulant properties of chromatographically fractionated bromelain to un-fractionated bromelain. Am J Transl Res 2021; 13:4309-4321. [PMID: 34150016 PMCID: PMC8205729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Bromelain consisting of a number of proteolytic enzymes possess anticancer and thrombotic properties. Hence, four chromatically separated fractions were examined for their proteolytic, anticancer and antithrombotic activity. Bromelain fractions were separated using ion-exchange column chromatography. Proteolytic properties were assessed using standard azocasein assay. Anticancer properties were first assessed using four different cell lines PANC-1, HEP 2B, HEP 3G and OVCAR-3 on cells grown in 96 well plates. Subsequently, fraction 2 and fraction 3 combined with gemcitabine were tested in ASPC-1 cells. Then cytotoxicity of fraction 3 was compared to bromelain in combination with doxorubicin and N-acetylcysteine on HEP G2 and HEP 3B cells. Finally, the anticoagulation effect of fraction 3 or bromelain combined with N-acetylcysteine was evaluated using human blood. Fraction 3 showed the highest proteolytic activity (5% greater than standard bromelain) whilst others were less active. Cytotoxicity as assessed by IC50 indicated fraction 3 to be the most potent whilst the others did not follow their proteolytic potency order. OVCAR-3 was the most sensitive amongst the cell lines. Fraction 3 showed higher potency in combination with gemcitabine in ASPC-1 cells compared to fraction 2. Similarly, fraction 3 in combination with doxorubicin showed higher toxicity when compared to bromelain. Fraction 3 or bromelain only showed thrombolytic activity in combination with N-acetylcysteine. Fraction 3 may be developed for clinical use since it showed better cytotoxicity compared to bromelain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samina Badar
- Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - Mohamed Azarkan
- Service de Chimie Générale I (CP 609), Protein Chemistry Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| | - Javed Akhter
- Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| | - Krishna Pillai
- Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| | - Rachida El Mahyaoui
- Service de Chimie Générale I (CP 609), Protein Chemistry Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kevin Ke
- Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - Lauren Cavanaugh
- Haematology Department, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - David L Morris
- Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
- Mucpharm Pty LtdAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Akhter J, Quéromès G, Pillai K, Kepenekian V, Badar S, Mekkawy AH, Frobert E, Valle SJ, Morris DL. The Combination of Bromelain and Acetylcysteine (BromAc) Synergistically Inactivates SARS-CoV-2. Viruses 2021; 13:v13030425. [PMID: 33800932 PMCID: PMC7999995 DOI: 10.3390/v13030425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection is the cause of a worldwide pandemic, currently with limited therapeutic options. The spike glycoprotein and envelope protein of SARS-CoV-2, containing disulfide bridges for stabilization, represent an attractive target as they are essential for binding to the ACE2 receptor in host cells present in the nasal mucosa. Bromelain and Acetylcysteine (BromAc) has synergistic action against glycoproteins by breakage of glycosidic linkages and disulfide bonds. We sought to determine the effect of BromAc on the spike and envelope proteins and its potential to reduce infectivity in host cells. Recombinant spike and envelope SARS-CoV-2 proteins were disrupted by BromAc. Spike and envelope protein disulfide bonds were reduced by Acetylcysteine. In in vitro whole virus culture of both wild-type and spike mutants, SARS-CoV-2 demonstrated a concentration-dependent inactivation from BromAc treatment but not from single agents. Clinical testing through nasal administration in patients with early SARS-CoV-2 infection is imminent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javed Akhter
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (J.A.); (V.K.); (S.B.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia;
| | - Grégory Quéromès
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Team VirPatH, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007 Lyon, France; (G.Q.); (E.F.)
| | | | - Vahan Kepenekian
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (J.A.); (V.K.); (S.B.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, EMR 3738 (CICLY), Lyon 1 Université, F-69921 Lyon, France
| | - Samina Badar
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (J.A.); (V.K.); (S.B.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- St. George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Ahmed H. Mekkawy
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (J.A.); (V.K.); (S.B.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia;
- St. George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Emilie Frobert
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Team VirPatH, Univ Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, F-69007 Lyon, France; (G.Q.); (E.F.)
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Institut des Agents Infectieux (IAI), Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Hospitalier Nord, F-69004 Lyon, France
| | - Sarah J. Valle
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (J.A.); (V.K.); (S.B.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia;
- St. George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - David L. Morris
- Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia; (J.A.); (V.K.); (S.B.); (A.H.M.); (S.J.V.)
- Mucpharm Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia;
- St. George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-(02)-91132590
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pillai K, Mekkawy AH, Akhter J, Badar S, Dong L, Liu AI, Morris DL. Enhancing the potency of chemotherapeutic agents by combination with bromelain and N-acetylcysteine - an in vitro study with pancreatic and hepatic cancer cells. Am J Transl Res 2020; 12:7404-7419. [PMID: 33312377 PMCID: PMC7724355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Current systemic dosages of chemotherapeutic drugs such as gemcitabine, 5-FU, cisplatin, doxorubicin are administered every 7 days over 4 cycles due to systemic toxicity. An increase in potency of the drugs will result in dosage reduction with more frequent administration and efficacy increase. Hence, we investigated how the drugs potency can be increased by combining with bromelain and N-acetylcysteine. Tumour cells (5,000/well) were seeded into a 96 well plate and treated 24 hrs later with either single agents or in combinations at various concentrations. Cell survival was assessed by the sulforhodamine B assay after 72 hours of exposure. LD 50 was determined for each treatment and the Combination Index (CI) was assessed to determine synergy using Tallarida's method. CI indicated that synergy was dependent on the concentration of the agents used and was cell line specific. For bromelain and N-acetylcysteine, certain ratio of the two agents gave very good synergy that was prevalent in almost all cell lines. Gemcitabine and 5-FU and doxorubicin reacted favourably with most concentrations of bromelain and NAC investigated. Cisplatin and oxaliplatin were not very compatible with NAC. A value of CI <0.5 indicated that the current clinical chemotherapeutic dosage can be dramatically reduced. Bromelain with NAC showed synergy in all tumour cell lines and acting synergistically with chemotherapeutic drugs. Synergistic combinations resulting in considerable dosage reduction of chemotherapeutic agents may enable more frequent treatment with higher efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Pillai
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - Javed Akhter
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - Samina Badar
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
- University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - Lillian Dong
- University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew Ilin Liu
- University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - David Lawson Morris
- Department of Surgery, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
- University of New South Wales, St. George HospitalKogarah, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bahrami F, Pourgholami MH, Mekkawy AH, Rufener L, Morris DL. Monepantel induces autophagy in human ovarian cancer cells through disruption of the mTOR/p70S6K signalling pathway. Am J Cancer Res 2014; 4:558-571. [PMID: 25232497 PMCID: PMC4163620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 08/16/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
We have recently shown that the novel anthelmintic drug monepantel (MPL) inhibits growth, proliferation and colony formation, arrests the cell cycle and induces cleavage of PARP-1 in ovarian cancer cell lines. Here we report on the mechanism behind the anticancer properties of MPL. The cytotoxic effect of MPL on ovarian cancer cells (OVCAR-3 and A2780) was investigated employing a panel of tests used for the detection of apoptosis and autophagy. Apoptosis and autophagy were defined by caspase activity, DNA-laddering, Annexin-V and acridine orange (AO) staining. Autophagy markers such as LC3B, SQSTM1/p62 and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway related proteins were assessed by western blotting and ELISA techniques. MPL did not activate caspases 3 or 8, nor did it alter the percentage of Annexin V positive stained cells. Failure to cause DNA laddering and the inability of z-VAD-fmk to block the MPL antiproliferative effects led to the ruling out of apoptosis as the mechanism behind MPL-induced cell death. On the other hand, accumulation of acidic vacuoles with distinct chromatin morphology and an increase in punctuate localization of green fluorescent protein-LC3B, and MPL-induced changes in the expression of SQSTM1/p62 were all indicative of MPL-induced autophagy. Consistent with this, we found inhibition of mTOR phosphorylation leading to suppression of the mTOR/p70S6K signalling pathway. Our findings provide the first evidence to show that MPL triggers autophagy through the deactivation of mTOR/p70S6K signalling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Bahrami
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales, 2217, Australia
| | - Mohammad H Pourgholami
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales, 2217, Australia
| | - Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales, 2217, Australia
| | - Lucien Rufener
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé AnimaleCH-1566 St Aubin (FR), Switzerland
| | - David L Morris
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales, 2217, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Currently, there are several studies supporting the role of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) system in cancer. The association of uPA to its receptor triggers the conversion of plasminogen into plasmin. This process is regulated by the uPA inhibitors (PAI-1 and PAI-2). Plasmin promotes degradation of basement membrane and extracellular matrix (ECM) components as well as activation of ECM latent matrix metalloproteases. Degradation and remodeling of the surrounding tissues is crucial in the early steps of tumor progression by facilitating expansion of the tumor mass, release of tumor growth factors, activation of cytokines as well as induction of tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Hence, many tumors showed a correlation between uPA system component levels and tumor aggressiveness and survival. Therefore, this review summarizes the structure of the uPA system, its contribution to cancer progression, and the clinical relevance of uPA family members in cancer diagnosis. In addition, the review evaluates the significance of uPA system in the development of cancer-targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Laboratories, St. George Hospital, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Pourgholami MH, Mekkawy AH, Badar S, Morris DL. Minocycline inhibits growth of epithelial ovarian cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2012; 125:433-40. [PMID: 22252097 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2012.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2011] [Revised: 12/13/2011] [Accepted: 01/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE These studies were designed to determine whether minocycline inhibits ovarian cancer growth in vitro and in vivo and the molecular mechanisms involved. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effect of minocycline on ovarian cancer cell proliferation, cell cycle progression and apoptosis was assessed using human ovarian cancer cell lines OVCAR-3, SKOV-3 and A2780. Then, the capacity of minocycline to inhibit growth of OVCAR-3 xenografts in female nude mice was examined. RESULTS Minocycline inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation, down-regulated cyclins A, B and E leading to arrest of cells in the G(0) phase of the cycle and suppression of DNA synthesis. Furthermore, exposure of these cells to minocycline led to DNA laddering, activation of caspase-3 and cleavage of PARP-1. In nude mice bearing sub-cutaneous tumors, minocycline suppressed tumor proliferation index, angiogenesis and tumor growth. CONCLUSION These findings provide the initial basis for further evaluation of minocycline in the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad H Pourgholami
- Cancer Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
De Bock CE, Lin Z, Mekkawy AH, Byrne JA, Wang Y. Interaction between urokinase receptor and heat shock protein MRJ enhances cell adhesion. Int J Oncol 2010; 36:1155-63. [PMID: 20372789 DOI: 10.3892/ijo_00000598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) has diverse biological functions including roles in proteolysis, cell adhesion and cellular signaling. We identified a heat shock protein MRJ (DNAJB6) as a novel uPAR-interacting protein in a yeast two-hybrid screen and confirmed the interaction and co-localization by GST-pull down assays, and co-immunoprecipitation in cells transfected with MRJ. Endogenous interaction between uPAR and MRJ was also detected in breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells. Deletion mapping demonstrated that the C-terminal region of MRJ is required to mediate its interaction with uPAR. To understand the biological function of the uPAR-MRJ complex, we determined whether MRJ regulated uPAR mediated adhesion to vitronectin in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells stably transfected with uPAR. After transfection with full length MRJ, there was a 50% increase in cell adhesion compared to the mock transfected control (p<0.01). This increase in adhesion is dependent on the uPAR/full length MRJ interaction as cells transfected with the mutant construct containing only N-terminal region or C-terminal region of MRJ had no increase in cell adhesion. The observed increase in adhesion to vitronectin by MRJ was also blocked by an anti-uPAR domain I antibody suggesting that the induced adhesion is at least in part contributed by uPAR on the cell surface. These data provide a novel mechanism by which uPAR plays a role in cell adhesion to vitronectin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles Edo De Bock
- Leukaemia Foundation Research Laboratory, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Herston, QLD, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mekkawy AH, De Bock CE, Lin Z, Morris DL, Wang Y, Pourgholami MH. Novel protein interactors of urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2010; 399:738-43. [PMID: 20696135 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2010.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2010] [Accepted: 08/04/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) has been implicated in tumor growth and metastasis. The crystal structure of uPAR revealed that the external surface is largely free to interact with a number of proteins. Additionally, due to absence of an intracellular cytoplasmic protein domain, many of the biological functions of uPAR necessitate interactions with other proteins. Here, we used yeast two-hybrid screening of breast cancer cDNA library to identify hSpry1 and HAX1 proteins as putative candidate proteins that interact with uPAR bait constructs. Interaction between these two candidates and uPAR was confirmed by GST-pull down, co-immunoprecipitation assays and confocal microscopy. These novel interactions that have been identified may also provide further evidence that uPAR can interact with a number of other proteins which may influence a range of biological functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Cancer Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, St. George Hospital, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mekkawy AH, Morris DL, Pourgholami MH. Urokinase plasminogen activator system as a potential target for cancer therapy. Future Oncol 2010. [PMID: 19903074 DOI: 10.2117/fon.09.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Proteolysis of extracellular matrix (ECM) and basement membrane is an essential mechanism used by cancer cells for their invasion and metastasis. The ECM proteinases are divided into three groups: metalloproteinases, cysteine proteinases and serine proteinases. The urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) system is one of the serine proteinase systems involved in ECM degradation. Members of this system, including uPA and its receptor (uPAR), are overexpressed in several malignant tumors. This system plays a major role in adhesion, migration, invasion and metastasis of cancer cells, thus making it an important target for anticancer drug therapy. Several strategies, including the use of antisense oligodeoxynucleotides, ribozymes, DNAzyme, RNAi, uPA inhibitors, soluble uPAR, catalytically inactive uPA fragments, synthetic peptides and synthetic hybrids are under study, as they interfere with the expression and/or activity of uPA or uPAR in tumor cells. Herein, we discuss the various pharmaceutical strategies under investigation to combat the uPA activity in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Cancer Research Laboratories, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Proteolysis of extracellular matrix (ECM) and basement membrane is an essential mechanism used by cancer cells for their invasion and metastasis. The ECM proteinases are divided into three groups: metalloproteinases, cysteine proteinases and serine proteinases. The urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) system is one of the serine proteinase systems involved in ECM degradation. Members of this system, including uPA and its receptor (uPAR), are overexpressed in several malignant tumors. This system plays a major role in adhesion, migration, invasion and metastasis of cancer cells, thus making it an important target for anticancer drug therapy. Several strategies, including the use of antisense oligodeoxynucleotides, ribozymes, DNAzyme, RNAi, uPA inhibitors, soluble uPAR, catalytically inactive uPA fragments, synthetic peptides and synthetic hybrids are under study, as they interfere with the expression and/or activity of uPA or uPAR in tumor cells. Herein, we discuss the various pharmaceutical strategies under investigation to combat the uPA activity in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mohammad H Pourgholami
- Cancer Research Laboratories, University of New South Wales, Department of Surgery, St George Hospital (SESIAHS), Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia
| |
Collapse
|