Cell-Penetrating Peptides as Keys to Endosomal Escape and Intracellular Trafficking in Nanomedicine Delivery

This review article discusses the challenges of delivering cargoes to the cytoplasm, for example, proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids, and the mechanisms involved in endosomal escape. Endocytosis, endosomal maturation, and exocytosis pose significant barriers to effective cytoplasmic delivery. The article explores various endosomal escape mechanisms, such as the proton sponge effect, osmotic lysis, membrane fusion, pore formation, membrane destabilization/ disruption, and vesicle budding and collapse. Additionally, it discusses the role of lysosomes, glycocalyx, and molecular crowding in the cytoplasmic delivery process. Despite the recent advances in nonviral delivery systems, there is still a need to improve cytoplasmic delivery. Strategies such as fusogenic peptides, endosomolytic polymers, and cell-penetrating peptides have shown promise in improving endosomal escape and cytoplasmic delivery. More research is needed to refine these strategies and make them safer and more effective. In conclusion, the article highlights the challenges associated with cytoplasmic delivery and the importance of understanding the mechanisms involved in endosomal escape. A better understanding of these processes could result in the creation of greater effectiveness and safe delivery systems for various cargoes, including proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids.

Leveraging hypoxia in triple-negative breast cancer as a promising treatment strategy

Current treatment strategies for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) are based upon conventional chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of both. The treatment regimen for chemotherapy is often a combination of two or more drugs, either dose dense or low dose for synergy. Anthracyclines, alkylating agents, antimicrotubule agents, and antimetabolites for early-stage TNBC; and antimetabolites, non-taxane microtubule inhibitors, and cross-linker platinums for late-stage TNBC are usually administered in the clinical setting. Newer options for patients with advanced TNBC, such as poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors, have recently emerged for cases where surgery is not a viable option and the disease has metastasized. This review outlines the current trends in hypoxia-inspired treatment strategies for TNBC with a focus on clinical trials.

Curcumin and its Derivatives Targeting Multiple Signaling Pathways to Elicit Anticancer Activity: A Comprehensive Perspective

The uncontrolled growth and spread of aberrant cells characterize the group of disorders known as cancer. According to GLOBOCAN 2022 analysis of cancer patients in either developed countries or developing countries the main concern cancers are breast cancer, lung cancer, and liver cancer which may rise eventually. Natural substances with dietary origins have gained interest for their low toxicity, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. The evaluation of dietary natural products as chemopreventive and therapeutic agents, the identification, characterization, and synthesis of their active components, as well as the enhancement of their delivery and bioavailability, have all received significant attention. Thus, the treatment strategy for concerning cancers must be significantly evaluated and may include the use of phytochemicals in daily lifestyle. In the present perspective, we discussed one of the potent phytochemicals, that has been used over the past few decades known as curcumin as a panacea drug of the "Cure-all" therapy concept. In our review firstly we included exhausted data from in-vivo and in-vitro studies on breast cancer, lung cancer, and liver cancer which act through various cancer-targeting pathways at the molecular level. Now, the second is the active constituent of turmeric known as curcumin and its derivatives are enlisted with their targeted protein in the molecular docking studies, which help the researchers design and synthesize new curcumin derivatives with respective implicated molecular and cellular activity. However, curcumin and its substituted derivatives still need to be investigated with unknown targeting mechanism studies in depth.

Multiple Protein Biomarkers and Different Treatment Strategies for Colorectal Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Prospective

In this review, we emphasized important biomarkers, pathogenesis, and newly developed therapeutic approaches in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). This includes a complete description of small-molecule inhibitors, phytopharmaceuticals with antiproliferative potential, monoclonal antibodies for targeted therapy, vaccinations as immunotherapeutic agents, and many innovative strategies to intervene in the interaction of oncogenic proteins. Many factors combine to determine the clinical behavior of colorectal cancer and it is still difficult to comprehend the molecular causes of a person's vulnerability to CRC. It is also challenging to identify the causes of the tumor's onset, progression, and responsiveness or resistance to antitumor treatment. Current recommendations for targeted medications are being updated by guidelines throughout the world in light of the growing number of high-quality clinical studies. So, being concerned about the aforementioned aspects, we have tried to present a summarized pathogenic view, including a brief description of biomarkers and an update of compounds with their underlying mechanisms that are currently under various stages of clinical testing. This will help to identify gaps or shortfalls that can be addressed in upcoming colorectal cancer research.

Structural Insight on GPR119 Agonist as Potential Therapy for Type II Diabetes: A Comprehensive Review

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a long-term metabolic condition that is characterized by excessive blood glucose. DM is the third most death-causing disease, leading to retinopathy, nephropathy, loss of vision, stroke, and cardiac arrest. Around 90% of the total cases of diabetic patients have Type II Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Among various approaches for the treatment of T2DM. G proteincoupled receptors (GPCRs) 119 have been identified as a new pharmacological target. GPR119 is distributed preferentially in the pancreas β-cells and gastrointestinal tract (enteroendocrine cells) in humans. GPR119 receptor activation elevates the release of incretin hormones such as Glucagon-Like Peptide (GLP1) and Glucose Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide (GIP) from intestinal K and L cells. GPR119 receptor agonists stimulate intracellular cAMP production via Gαs coupling to adenylate cyclase. GPR119 has been linked to the control of insulin release by pancreatic β-cells, as well as the generation of GLP-1 by enteroendocrine cells in the gut, as per in vitro assays. The dual role of the GPR119 receptor agonist in the treatment of T2DM leads to the development of a novel prospective anti-diabetic drug and is thought to have decreased the probability of inducing hypoglycemia. GPR119 receptor agonists exert their effects in one of two ways: either by promoting glucose absorption by β-cells, or by inhibiting α-cells' ability to produce glucose. In this review, we summarized potential targets for the treatment of T2DM with special reference to GPR119 along with its pharmacological effects, several endogenous as well as exogenous agonists, and its pyrimidine nucleus containing synthetic ligands.

Structural Insights into N-heterocyclic Moieties as an Anticancer Agent against Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An Exhaustive Perspective

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is rapidly spreading around the world with a high mortality rate. In the low- and middle-income nations most impacted by HCV and HBV infections, HCC places a significant strain on the healthcare system and leaches productive capability. An extensive study on HCC to create novel therapeutic approaches was motivated by the lack of adequate preventive or curative therapy methods. Several medications have been put forward and some drug molecules are under investigation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of HCC. However, these therapeutic choices fall short of the ideal due to toxicity and the rapid rise in drug resistance which decreases the efficacy of these therapeutics and leads to the severity of hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, concerning these problems, there is a critical need for novel systemic combination therapies as well as novel molecular entities that target various signalling pathways, reducing the likelihood that cancer cells may develop treatment resistance. In this review, we discuss the conclusions of several studies suggesting that the N-heterocyclic ring system is a key structural component of many synthetic drugs with a diverse range of biological activities. Following nuclei, such as pyridazine, pyridine, and pyrimidines, along with benzimidazole, indole, acridine, oxadiazole, imidazole, isoxazole, pyrazole, quinolines, and quinazolines, have been included to provide a general overview of the link between structure and activity between heterocyclics and their derivatives against hepatocellular carcinoma. A comprehensive investigation of the structure-activity relationship between the series may be done by the direct comparison of anticancer activities with the reference.

Nanomedicine approaches to reduce cytokine storms in severe infections

During a cytokine storm, dysregulated proinflammatory cytokines are produced in excess. Cytokine storms occur in multiple infectious diseases, including Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Thus, eliminating cytokine storms to enhance patient outcomes is crucial. Given the numerous cytokines involved, individual therapies might have little effect. Traditional cytokines might be less effective than medicines that target malfunctioning macrophages. Nanomedicine-based therapeutics reduce cytokine production in animal models of proinflammatory illnesses. The unique physicochemical features and controlled nano-bio interactions of nanotechnology show promise in healthcare and could be used to treat several stages of this virus-induced sickness, including cytokine storm mortality. Macrophage-oriented nanomedicines can minimize cytokine storms and associated harmful effects, enhancing patient outcomes. Here, we also discuss engineering possibilities for enhancing macrophage efficacy with nanodrug carriers.

Comparison of Tau and Amyloid-β Targeted Immunotherapy Nanoparticles for Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a rapidly growing global concern associated with the accumulation of amyloid-β plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles in the brain combined with a high acetylcholinesterase activity. AD diagnosis is usually made too late, when patients have an extensive neuronal death, and brain damage is irreversible. Several therapeutic targets have been defined mainly related to two hypotheses of AD: the tau hypothesis and the amyloid-β hypothesis. Here, we intend to investigate and to compare different therapeutic approaches for AD, mainly based on nanoparticles (NPs) targeted at the brain and at the pathological hallmarks of the disease. We analyzed preclinical trials that have successfully improved drug bioavailability in the brain by using targeted nanocarriers towards either tau, amyloid-β, or both. We then compared these trials to find out which protein is more efficient in therapeutic targeting. We found that the search for a cure was mostly based on the amyloid-β hypothesis, with Aβ dysplasia emerging as the most confirmed and convincing therapeutic target. Targeted NPs have proven useful to enhance both the bioavailability and the performance of therapies against AD in animal models. A better understanding of AD mechanisms will help the successful application of targeted NPs for combined therapies.

Nanomedicine for overcoming therapeutic and diagnostic challenges associated with pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the USA. The 5-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is as low as 10%, making it one of the most deadly cancers. This dismal prognosis is caused, in part, by the lack of early detection and screening options, leading to late-stage detection of the disease, at a point at which chemotherapy is no longer effective. However, nanoparticle (NP) drug delivery systems have increased the efficacy of chemotherapeutics by improving the targeting ability of drugs to the tumor site, while also decreasing the risk of local and systemic toxicity. Such efforts can contribute to the development of early diagnosis and routine screening tests, which will drastically improve the survival rates and prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer.

Multiple strategies for the treatment of invasive breast carcinoma: A comprehensive prospective

In this review, we emphasize on evolving therapeutic strategies and advances in the treatment of breast cancer (BC). This includes small-molecule inhibitors under preclinical and clinical investigation, phytoconstituents with antiproliferative potential, targeted therapies as antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), vaccines as immunotherapeutic agents and peptides as a novel approach inhibiting the interaction of oncogenic proteins. We provide an update of molecules under different phases of clinical investigation which aid in the identification of loopholes or shortcomings that can be overcomed with future breast cancer research.

Overcoming the Tumor Microenvironmental Barriers of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinomas for Achieving Better Treatment Outcomes

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive disease with the lowest survival rate among all solid tumors. The lethality of PDAC arises from late detection and propensity of the tumor to metastasize and develop resistance against chemo and radiation therapy. A highly complex tumor microenvironment composed of dense stroma, immune cells, fibroblast, and disorganized blood vessels, is the main obstacle to current PDAC therapy. Despite the tremendous success of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in cancers, PDAC remains one of the poorest responders of ICIs therapy. The immunologically "cold" phenotype of PDAC is attributed to the low mutational burden, high infiltration of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and T-regs, contributing to a significant immunotherapy resistance mechanism. Thus, the development of innovative strategies for turning immunologically "cold" tumor into "hot" ones is an unmet need to improve the outcome of PDAC ICIs therapies. Other smart strategies, such as nanomedicines, sonic Hedgehog inhibitor, or smoothened inhibitor, are discussed to enhance chemotherapeutic agents' efficiency by disrupting the PDAC stroma. This review highlights the current challenges and various preclinical and clinical strategies to overcome current PDAC therapy difficulties, thus significantly advancing PDAC research knowledge.

Nano-therapeutic strategies to target coronavirus

The coronaviruses have caused severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), and the more recent coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19). The global COVID-19 pandemic requires urgent action to develop anti-virals, new therapeutics, and vaccines. In this review, we discuss potential therapeutics including human recombinant ACE2 soluble, inflammatory cytokine inhibitors, and direct anti-viral agents such as remdesivir and favipiravir, to limit their fatality. We also discuss the structure of the SARS-CoV-2, which is crucial to the timely development of therapeutics, and previous attempts to generate vaccines against SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. Finally, we provide an overview of the role of nanotechnology in the development of therapeutics as well as in the diagnosis of the infection. This information is key for computational modeling and nanomedicine-based new therapeutics by counteracting the variable proteins in the virus. Further, we also try to effectively share the latest information about many different aspects of COVID-19 vaccine developments and possible management to further scientific endeavors.

Recent advances in nano delivery systems for blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration and targeting of brain tumors

Gliomas constitute about 80% of brain tumors and have a meager two-year survival rate. The treatment options available are very few because of poor prognosis and a lack of targeted nanodelivery systems that can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the blood-tumor barrier. This short review attempts to clarify the challenges for delivery systems designed to cross the BBB, and provides a brief description of the different types of targeted nanodelivery system that have shown potential for success in delivering drugs to the brain. Further, this review describes the most recent studies that have developed nanoparticles for brain delivery in the past five years. We also provide an insight into the most recent clinical trials designed to assess the efficacy of these nanodelivery systems for glioma.

Transferrin: Biology and Use in Receptor-Targeted Nanotherapy of Gliomas

Gliomas constitute 80% of malignant brain tumors. The survival rate of patients diagnosed with malignant gliomas is only 34.4%, as seen in both adults as well as children. The biggest challenge in treatment of gliomas is the impenetrable blood-brain barrier. With the availability of only a very few choices of chemotherapeutics in the treatment of gliomas, it is imperative that a novel strategy to effectively deliver drugs into the brain is researched and applied. The most popular strategy that is gaining importance is the receptor-mediated uptake of targeted nanoparticles comprising of ligands specific to the receptors. This review discusses briefly one such receptor called the transferrin receptor that is highly expressed in the brain and can be applied effectively for targeted nanoparticle delivery systems in gliomas.

CD44 Targeted Nanomaterials for Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Identified as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among American women after lung cancer, breast cancer of all types has been the focus of numerous research studies. Even though triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents 15-20% of the number of breast cancer cases worldwide, its existing therapeutic options are fairly limited. Due to the pivotal role of the presence/absence of specific receptors to luminal A, luminal B, HER-2+, and TNBC in the molecular classification of breast cancer, the lack of these receptors has accounted for the aforementioned limitation. Thereupon, in an attempt to participate in the ongoing research endeavors to overcome such a limitation, the conducted study adopts a combination strategy as a therapeutic paradigm for TNBC, which has proven notable results with respect to both: improving patient outcomes and survivability rates. The study hinges upon an investigation of a promising NPs platform for CD44 mediated theranostic that can be combined with JAK/STAT inhibitors for the treatment of TNBC. The ability of momelotinib (MMB), which is a JAK/STAT inhibitor, to sensitize the TNBC to apoptosis inducer (CFM-4.16) has been evaluated in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468. MMB + CFM-4.16 combination with a combination index (CI) ≤0.5, has been selected for in vitro and in vivo studies. MMB has been combined with CD44 directed polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) loaded with CFM-4.16, namely CD44-T-PNPs, which selectively delivered the payload to CD44 overexpressing TNBC with a significant decrease in cell viability associated with a high dose reduction index (DRI). The mechanism underlying their synergism is based on the simultaneous downregulation of P-STAT3 and the up-regulation of CARP-1, which has induced ROS-dependent apoptosis leading to caspase 3/7 elevation, cell shrinkage, DNA damage, and suppressed migration. CD44-T-PNPs showed a remarkable cellular internalization, demonstrated by uptake of a Rhodamine B dye in vitro and S0456 (NIR dye) in vivo. S0456 was conjugated to PNPs to form CD44-T-PNPs/S0456 that simultaneously delivered CFM-4.16 and S0456 parenterally with selective tumor targeting, prolonged circulation, minimized off-target distribution.

Folate Receptors' Expression in Gliomas May Possess Potential Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery Opportunities

Brain cancer effected around estimated 23 890 adults and 3540 children under the age of 15 in 2020. The chemotherapeutic agents that are already approved by the FDA for brain cancer are proving to be not highly effective because of the interference from the tumor microenvironment as well as their own toxicities. Added to this is the impedance presented by the extremely restrictive permeability of the blood brain barrier (BBB). Targeted nanoparticulate drug delivery systems offer a good opportunity to traverse the BBB and selectively target the tumor cells. Folate receptors are found to be one of the most useful targets for drug delivery to the brain. Hence, this Mini-Review discusses the folate receptors and their application in the treatment of brain cancers using targeted nanoparticles.

Novel approaches for the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: Using nanoparticles to overcome multidrug resistance

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) causes serious infections in both community and hospital settings, with high mortality rates. Treatment of MRSA infections is challenging because of the rapidly evolving resistance mechanisms combined with the protective biofilms of S. aureus. Together, these characteristic resistance mechanisms continue to render conventional treatment modalities ineffective. The use of nanoformulations with unique modes of transport across bacterial membranes could be a useful strategy for disease-specific delivery. In this review, we summarize treatment approaches for MRSA, including novel techniques in nanoparticulate designing for better therapeutic outcomes; and facilitate an understanding that nanoparticulate delivery systems could be a robust approach in the successful treatment of MRSA.

Comparing and Contrasting MERS, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2: Prevention, Transmission, Management, and Vaccine Development

The COVID-19 pandemic is responsible for an unprecedented disruption to the healthcare systems and economies of countries around the world. Developing novel therapeutics and a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 requires an understanding of the similarities and differences between the various human coronaviruses with regards to their phylogenic relationships, transmission, and management. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that humans were first infected with SARS-CoV-2 in late 2019 and the virus rapidly spread from the outbreak epicenter in Wuhan, China to various parts of the world. Multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2 have now been identified in particular regions. It is apparent that MERS, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 present with several common symptoms including fever, cough, and dyspnea in mild cases, but can also progress to pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Understanding the molecular steps leading to SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells and the viral replication cycle can illuminate crucial targets for testing several potential therapeutics. Genomic and structural details of SARS-CoV-2 and previous attempts to generate vaccines against SARS-CoV and MERS have provided vaccine targets to manage future outbreaks more effectively. The coordinated global response against this emerging infectious disease is unique and has helped address the need for urgent therapeutics and vaccines in a remarkably short time.

Progress in Clinical Trials of Photodynamic Therapy for Solid Tumors and the Role of Nanomedicine

Current research to find effective anticancer treatments is being performed on photodynamic therapy (PDT) with increasing attention. PDT is a very promising therapeutic way to combine a photosensitive drug with visible light to manage different intense malignancies. PDT has several benefits, including better safety and lower toxicity in the treatment of malignant tumors over traditional cancer therapy. This reasonably simple approach utilizes three integral elements: a photosensitizer (PS), a source of light, and oxygen. Upon light irradiation of a particular wavelength, the PS generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), beginning a cascade of cellular death transformations. The positive therapeutic impact of PDT may be limited because several factors of this therapy include low solubilities of PSs, restricting their effective administration, blood circulation, and poor tumor specificity. Therefore, utilizing nanocarrier systems that modulate PS pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) is a promising approach to bypassing these challenges. In the present paper, we review the latest clinical studies and preclinical in vivo studies on the use of PDT and progress made in the use of nanotherapeutics as delivery tools for PSs to improve their cancer cellular uptake and their toxic properties and, therefore, the therapeutic impact of PDT. We also discuss the effects that photoimmunotherapy (PIT) might have on solid tumor therapeutic strategies.

Abstract 6263: Hypoxia-targeting prodrug approach for multimodal chemotherapy and immunogenic cell death in aggressive triple negative breast cancer

Immune checkpoint blockade molecules, including antibodies against PD-1 and PD-L1 have gained much clinical recognition in the past few years. These strategies include harnessing the host's immune system to invade cancer cells by inhibiting the interaction between PD-1 and its ligand, PD-L1, thereby facilitating the activation of CD8+ T cells to mount an attack on cancer cells. Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) accounts for 10-20% of the total breast carcinoma cases. There is no FDA-approved targeted therapy for TNBC due to lack of the major biomarkers: estrogen, progesterone and HER-2. TNBC is difficult to treat, with a high rate of metastasis to nearby organs. We have identified the role of a hypoxia biomarker, carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) in proliferation and metastasis of TNBC. Based on this observation, we developed a CAIX-targeted Doxorubicin (Dox) prodrug nanoparticle, abbreviated as CAIX-Dox-NP. CAIX-Dox-NP can deliver the chemotherapeutic, Dox payload selectively in hypoxic tumor microenvironment, thus reducing Dox-associated cardiotoxicity. Most of the advanced stages TNBC solid tumors present themselves with oxygen-deficient, vascularized and matrix-rich core which is impermeable to most of the chemotherapy drugs. CAIX-Dox-NP has the ability to penetrate deep into the TNBC and kill epithelial tumor cells as well as tumor-growth promoting T-cells. CAIX-Dox-NP showed greater penetration in the core of hypoxic TNBC spheroid. Recent studies showed that Immunogenic Cell Death (ICD) has vital role in resurrecting the CD8+ T-cells mediated tumor killing. Combination of anti-PD-1 with inducers of ICD like Dox accentuate the ability of CD8+ T cells in killing of cancer cells. Our approach is to utilize CAIX-Dox for achieving CAIX-mediated targeted delivery and multimodal chemotherapy in addition to induction of ICD. Preliminary studies with CAIX-Dox has profound effect of killing TNBC cells, 4T1, through induction of early phase apoptosis. The Western Blot analysis in 4T1 treated with CAIX-Dox has proved the significant upregulation of ICD biomarkers, HMGB1 and calreticulin, by greater than 3-fold compared to control. To improve the bioavailability of CAIX-Dox, we developed CAIX-Dox-NP that can hitchhike on the circulating plasma albumin. The nanoparticles travel to the tumor and deliver the CAIX-Dox at the hypoxic core of TNBC, resulting in induction of apoptosis and ICD. Inspired from this outcome, we are developing a model for coculture of cancer and T-cells for evaluating if CAIX-Dox treatment can reeducate T-cells in killing cancer cells through ICD pathway.

Citation Format: Ketki Bhise, Samaresh Sau, Mohd Ahmar Rauf, Arun K. Rishi, Arun K. Iyer. Hypoxia-targeting prodrug approach for multimodal chemotherapy and immunogenic cell death in aggressive triple negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 6263.

Abstract 1721: Hypoxia penetrating ultra-small nanoparticle for anti-cancer effect in Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a lethal brain tumor currently without successful treatment options. Chemotherapeutic agents are the frontline in the management of GBM. Nonetheless, accessibility of the brain tumor is greatly impeded by the poor blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration of drugs, which needs immediate attention. Ultra-small multifunctional nanoparticle offers a great promise in overcoming the delivery barriers to GBM. The primary goal of our research is to develop BBB targeted nanoparticle that can selectively deliver drugs to GBM and trigger cell death. We developed Anti-GBM drug, such as temozolomide (TMZ) encapsulated biocompatible, ultra-small nanoparticle using Lactoferrin (LAC) protein. Further, we chemically conjugated LAC with tumor hypoxia biomarker homing molecule, Acetazolamide (ATZ) to obtain LAC-ATZ nanoparticle. To validate our hypothesis of hypoxia targeting, we evaluated the carbonic anhydrase-IX (CAIX) receptor expression in human brain tumor section. The IHC data demonstrated significant overexpression of CAIX in tumor tissue compared to healthy human brain tissue section. Literatures have reported overexpression of LRP-1 in endothelial blood vessel of GBM tumor. Thus, use of LAC-ATZ will enhance its penetration across the BBB and delivery of TMZ in hypoxic core of GBM. To achieve the effective BBB penetration, we engineered LAC-ATZ@TMZ nanoparticle that demonstrated homogenous ultra-small particle size of average diameter of 20-30 nm using TEM analysis. The SDS-PAGE analysis demonstrated the conjugation of LAC with ATZ. Our preliminary data in GBM cells, U87MG suggested the dose dependent cell uptake of DiD-fluorescence labeled LAC-ATZ nanoparticle. The nanoparticles are selective in targeting the U87MG cell when compared to healthy microglial BV2 cells. Thus, it is supporting the potential of LAC-ATZ nanoparticle for targeting the GBM tumor with limited effect in healthy brain tissue. We developed conditioned BBB cell culture model to demonstrate the penetration of LAC-ATZ across the BBB. Based on the exciting preliminary outcome in this study builds a strong rational of using LAC-ATZ nanoparticle for overcoming the bottle neck barrier of BBB with improved anti-GBM response.

Keywords:

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), blood-brain barrier (BBB), Lactoferrin (LAC), Acetazolamide (ATZ)

Citation Format: Mohd A. Rauf, Katyayani Tatiparti, Samaresh Sau, Arun K. Iyer. Hypoxia penetrating ultra-small nanoparticle for anti-cancer effect in Glioblastoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 1721.

Graphene Decorated Zinc Oxide and Curcumin to Disinfect the Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Sometimes, life-threatening infections are initiated by the biofilm formation facilitated at the infection site by the drug-resistant bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. The aggregation of the same type of bacteria leads to biofilm formation on the delicate tissue, dental plaque, and skin. In the present investigation, a Graphene (Gr)-based nano-formulation containing Curcumin (C.C.M.) and Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) showed a wide range of anti-microbial activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilm and demonstrated the anti-microbial mechanism of action. The anti-microbial effect of GrZnO nanocomposites, i.e., GrZnO-NCs, suggests that the integrated graphene-based nanocomposites effectively suppressed both sensitive as well as MRSA ATCC 43300 and BAA-1708 isolates. The S. aureus inhibitory effect of GrZnO-NCs improved >5-fold when combined with C.C.M., and demonstrated a M.I.C. of 31.25 µg/mL contrasting with the GrZnO-NCs or C.C.M. alone having M.I.C. value of 125 µg/mL each. The combination treatment of GrZnO-NCs or C.C.M. inhibited the M.R.S.A. topical dermatitis infection in a mice model with a significant decrease in the CFU count to ~64%. Interestingly, the combination of C.C.M. and GrZnO-NCs damaged the bacterial cell wall structure, resulting in cytoplasm spillage, thereby diminishing their metabolism. Thus, owing to the ease of synthesis and highly efficient anti-microbial properties, the present graphene-based curcumin nano-formulations can cater to a new treatment methodology against M.R.S.A.

Carbonic Anhydrase-IX Guided Albumin Nanoparticles for Hypoxia-mediated Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cell Killing and Imaging of Patient-derived Tumor

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is considered as the most onerous cancer subtype, lacking the estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. Evaluating new markers is an unmet need for improving targeted therapy against TNBC. TNBC depends on several factors, including hypoxia development, which contributes to therapy resistance, immune evasion, and tumor stroma formation. In this study, we studied the curcumin analogue (3,4-Difluorobenzylidene Curcumin; CDF) encapsulated bovine serum albumin (BSA) nanoparticle for tumor targeting. For tumor targeting, we conjugated Acetazolamide (ATZ) with CDF and encapsulated it in the BSA to form a nanoparticle (namely BSA-CDF-ATZ). The in vitro cytotoxicity study suggested that BSA-CDF-ATZ is more efficient when compared to free CDF. The BSA-CDF-ATZ nanoparticles showed significantly higher cell killing in hypoxic conditions compared to normoxic conditions, suggesting better internalization of the nanoparticles into cancer cells under hypoxia. Fluorescent-dye labeled BSA-CDF-ATZ revealed higher cell uptake of the nanoparticle compared to free dye indicative of better delivery, substantiated by a high rate of apoptosis-mediated cell death compared to free CDF. The significantly higher tumor accumulation and low liver and spleen uptake in TNBC patient-derived tumor xenograft models confirm the significant potential of BSA-CDF-ATZ for targeted TNBC imaging and therapy.

Interactions Between Tumor Biology and Targeted Nanoplatforms for Imaging Applications

Although considerable efforts have been conducted to diagnose, improve, and treat cancer in the past few decades, existing therapeutic options are insufficient, as mortality and morbidity rates remain high. Perhaps the best hope for substantial improvement lies in early detection. Recent advances in nanotechnology are expected to increase the current understanding of tumor biology, and will allow nanomaterials to be used for targeting and imaging both in vitro and in vivo experimental models. Owing to their intrinsic physicochemical characteristics, nanostructures (NSs) are valuable tools that have received much attention in nanoimaging. Consequently, rationally designed NSs have been successfully employed in cancer imaging for targeting cancer-specific or cancer-associated molecules and pathways. This review categorizes imaging and targeting approaches according to cancer type, and also highlights some new safe approaches involving membrane-coated nanoparticles, tumor cell-derived extracellular vesicles, circulating tumor cells, cell-free DNAs, and cancer stem cells in the hope of developing more precise targeting and multifunctional nanotechnology-based imaging probes in the future.

Exploring siRNA Umpired Nanogels: A Tale of Barrier Combating Carrier

Potential short interfering RNAs (siRNA) modulating gene expression have emerged as a novel therapeutic arsenal against a wide range of maladies and disorders containing cancer, viral infections, bacterial ailments and metabolic snags at the molecular level. Nanogel, in the current medicinal era, displayed a comprehensive range of significant drug delivery prospects. Biodegradation, swelling and de-swelling tendency, pHsensitive drug release and thermo-sensitivity are some of the renowned associated benefits of nanogel drug delivery system. Global researches have also showed that nanogel system significantly targets and delivers the biomolecules including DNAs, siRNA, protein, peptides and other biologically active molecules. Biomolecules delivery via nanogel system explored a wide range of pharmaceutical, biomedical engineering and agro-medicinal application. The siRNAs and DNAs delivery plays a vivacious role by addressing the hitches allied with chronic and contemporary therapeutic like generic possession and low constancy. They also incite release kinetics approach from slow-release while mingling to rapid release at the targets will be beneficial as interference RNAs delivery carriers. Therefore, in this research, we focused on the latest improvements in the delivery of siRNA loaded nanogels by enhancing the absorption, stability, sensitivity and combating the hindrances in cellular trafficking and release process.

Nano-engineered delivery systems for cancer imaging and therapy: Recent advances, future direction and patent evaluation

Cancer is the second highest cause of death worldwide. Several therapeutic approaches, such as conventional chemotherapy, antibodies and small molecule inhibitors and nanotherapeutics have been employed in battling cancer. Amongst them, nanotheranostics is an example of successful personalized medicine bearing dual role of early diagnosis and therapy to cancer patients. In this review, we have focused on various types of theranostic polymer and metal nanoparticles for their role in cancer therapy and imaging concerning their limitation, future application such as dendritic cell cancer vaccination, gene delivery, T-cell activation and immune modulation. Also, some of the recorded patent applications and clinical trials have been illustrated. The impact of the biological microenvironment on the biodistribution and accumulation of nanoparticles have been discussed.

pH triggered and charge attracted nanogel for simultaneous evaluation of penetration and toxicity against skin cancer: In-vitro and ex-vivo study

The current research is focused to develop and investigate the toxicity and penetration potential of biocompatible chitosan nanogel encapsulating capecitabine by ionic interaction mechanism exhibiting pH triggered transdermal targeting. The nanogel (CPNL) was synthesized by ion gelation mechanism using Pluronic F 127 and surface decoration by Transcutol as non-ionic penetration enhancer. The CPNL possesses fine morphology and nano size range when evaluated by TEM, SEM and DLS analysis with cationic charge and slightly acidic pH assayed by zeta potential and pH analysis. It showed pH responsive drug release characteristics mimicking the skin cancer micro-environment. The MTT assay and apoptotic index of CPNL on HaCaT cell line elaborated optimal cell toxicity and retention on 24h of exposure. The ex-vivo skin penetration analysis exhibited noteworthy diffusion and penetration caliber through concentration depth profile, steady state flux and fluorescent skin imaging on porcine tissue. Overall outcomes suggested CPNL as a potent alternative biocompatible, transdermal nanotherapy against skin cancer displaying significant penetration caliber with enhance toxicity on cancerous cell.

Development of asialoglycoprotein receptor directed nanoparticles for selective delivery of curcumin derivative to hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular cellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most challenging liver cancer subtypes. Due to lack of cell surface biomarkers and highly metastatic nature, early detection and targeted therapy of HCC is an unmet need. Galactosamine (Gal) is among the few selective ligands used for targeting HCCs due to its high binding affinity to asialoglycoprotein receptors (ASGPRs) overexpressed in HCC. In the present work, we engineered nanoscale G4 polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers anchored to galactosamine and loaded with the potent anticancer curcumin derivative (CDF) as a platform for targeted drug delivery to HCC. In vivo targeting ability and bio-distribution of PAMAM-Gal were assessed via its labeling with the clinically used, highly contrast, near infrared (NIR) dye: S0456, with testing of the obtained conjugate in aggressive HCC xenograft model. Our results highlighted the targeted dendrimer PAMAM-Gal ability to achieve selective high cellular uptake via ASGPR mediated endocytosis and significantly enhance the delivery of CDF into the studied HCC cell lines. Cytotoxicity MTT assays in HCC cell lines, interestingly highlighted, the comparative high potency of CDF, where CDF was more potent as a chemotherapeutic anticancer small molecule than the currently in use Doxorubicin, Sorafenib and Cisplatin chemotherapeutic agents. In conclusion the proof-of-concept study using nanoscale PAMAM-Gal dendrimer has demonstrated its competency as an efficient delivery system for selective delivery of potent CDF for HCC anticancer therapy as well as HCC diagnosis via NIR imaging.

Molecular Docking Analysis of Caspase-3 Activators as Potential Anticancer Agents

Introduction:

Caspase-3 plays a leading role in apoptosis and on activation, it cleaves many protein substrates in cells and causes cell death. Since many chemotherapeutics are known to induce apoptosis in cancer cells, promotion or activation of apoptosis via targeting apoptosis regulators has been suggested as a promising strategy for anticancer drug discovery. In this paper, we studied the interaction of 1,2,4-Oxadiazoles derivatives with anticancer drug target enzymes (PDB ID 3SRC).

Methods:

Molecular docking studies were performed on a series of 1,2,4-Oxadiazoles derivatives to find out molecular arrangement and spatial requirements for their binding potential for caspase-3 enzyme agonistic affinity to treat cancer. The Autodock 4.2 and GOLD 5.2 molecular modeling suites were used for the molecular docking analysis to provide information regarding important drug receptor interaction.

Results and Conclusion:

Both suites explained the spatial disposition of the drug with the active amino acid in the ligand binding domain of the enzyme. The amino acid asparagine 273 (ASN 273) of target has shown hydrogen bond interaction with the top ranked ligand.

Exploring the Role of Water Molecules in the Ligand Binding Domain of PDE4B and PDE4D: Virtual Screening Based Molecular Docking of Some Active Scaffolds

BACKGROUND

The phosphodiesterase (PDE) is a superfamily represented by four genes: PDE4A, B,C, and D which cause the hydrolysis of phosphodiester bond of cAMP to yield inactive AMP. c-AMP catalyzing enzyme is predominant in inflammatory and immunomodulatory cells. Therapy to treat Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) with the use of PDE4 inhibitors is highly envisaged.

OBJECTIVE

A molecular docking experiment with large dataset of diverse scaffolds has been performed on PDE4 inhibitors to analyze the role of amino acid responsible for binding and activation of the secondary transmitters. Apart from the general docking experiment, the main focus was to discover the role of water molecules present in the ligand-binding domain.

METHODS

All the compounds were docked in the PDE4B and PDE4D active cavity to produce the free binding energy scores and spatial disposition/orientation of chemical groups of inhibitors around the cavity. Under uniform condition, the experiments were carried out with and without water molecules in the LBD. The exhaustive study was carried out on the Autodock 4.2 software and explored the role of water molecules present in the binding domain.

RESULTS

In presence of water molecule, Roflumilast has more binding affinity (-8.48 Kcal/mol with PDE4B enzyme and -8.91 Kcal/mol with PDE4D enzyme) and forms two hydrogen bonds with Gln443 and Glu369 and amino acid with PDE4B and PDE4D enzymes respectively. While in absence of water molecule its binding affinity has decreased (-7.3 Kcal/mol with PDE4B enzyme and -5.17 Kcal/mol with PDE4D enzyme) as well as no H-bond interactions were observed. Similar observation was made with clinically tested molecules.

CONCLUSION

In protein-ligand binding interactions, appropriate selection of water molecules facilitated the ligand binding, which eventually enhances the efficiency as well as the efficacy of ligand binding.

Tumor hypoxia directed multimodal nanotherapy for overcoming drug resistance in renal cell carcinoma and reprogramming macrophages

Drug resistance is one of the significant clinical burden in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The development of drug resistance is attributed to many factors, including impairment of apoptosis, elevation of carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX, a marker of tumor hypoxia), and infiltration of tumorigenic immune cells. To alleviate the drug resistance, we have used Sorafenib (Sor) in combination with tumor hypoxia directed nanoparticle (NP) loaded with a new class of apoptosis inducer, CFM 4.16 (C4.16), namely CA IX-C4.16. The NP is designed to selectively deliver the payload to the hypoxic tumor (core), provoke superior cell death in parental (WT) and Everolimus-resistant (Evr-res) RCC and selectively downmodulate tumorigenic M2-macrophage. Copper-free 'click' chemistry was utilized for conjugating SMA-TPGS with Acetazolamide (ATZ, a CA IX-specific targeting ligand). The NP was further tagged with a clinically approved NIR dye (S0456) for evaluating hypoxic tumor core penetration and organ distribution. Imaging of tumor spheroid treated with NIR dye-labeled CA IX-SMA-TPGS revealed remarkable tumor core penetration that was modulated by CA IX-mediated targeting in hypoxic-A498 RCC cells. The significant cell killing effect with synergistic combination index (CI) of CA IX-C4.16 and Sor treatment suggests efficient reversal of Evr-resistance in A498 cells. The CA IX directed nanoplatform in combination with Sor has shown multiple benefits in overcoming drug resistance through (i) inhibition of p-AKT, (ii) upregulation of tumoricidal M1 macrophages resulting in induction of caspase 3/7 mediated apoptosis of Evr-res A498 cells in macrophage-RCC co-culturing condition, (iii) significant in vitro and in vivo Evr-res A498 tumor growth inhibition as compared to individual therapy, and (iv) untraceable liver and kidney toxicity in mice. Near-infrared (NIR) imaging of CA IX-SMA-TPGS-S0456 in Evr-res A498 RCC model exhibited significant accumulation of CA IX-oligomer in tumor core with >3-fold higher tumor uptake as compared to control. In conclusion, this proof-of-concept study demonstrates versatile tumor hypoxia directed nanoplatform that can work in synergy with existing drugs for reversing drug-resistance in RCC accompanied with re-education of tumor-associated macrophages, that could be applied universally for several hypoxic tumors.

Combination of Vancomycin and Cefazolin Lipid Nanoparticles for Overcoming Antibiotic Resistance of MRSA

Vancomycin is the treatment of choice for infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Clinically, combinations of vancomycin (VAN) and beta-lactams have been shown to improve patient outcomes compared to VAN alone for the treatment of MRSA bloodstream infections. However, VAN is known to cause nephrotoxicity, which could be ameliorated using biocompatible lipid drug delivery systems or liposomes. Previous attempts have been made for encapsulation of VAN in liposomes; however, drug loading has been poor, mainly because of the high aqueous solubility of VAN. In this study, we report a robust method to achieve high loading of VAN and cefazolin (CFZ) in unilamellar liposomes. Liposomes of sizes between 170–198 nm were prepared by modified reverse phase evaporation method and achieved high loading of 40% and 26% (weight/weight) for VAN and CFZ, respectively. Liposomal VAN reduced minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values 2-fold in comparison to commercial VAN. The combination of liposomal VAN (LVAN) and liposomal CFZ (LCFZ) demonstrated a 7.9-fold reduction compared to LVAN alone. Rhodamine dye-loaded liposomes demonstrated superior cellular uptake in macrophage-like RAW 264.7 cells. Fluorescent images of LVAN-encapsulating near-infrared (NIR) dye, S0456 (LVAN-S0456) clearly indicated that LVAN-S0456 had reduced renal excretion with very low fluorescent intensity in the kidneys. It is anticipated that the long circulation and reduced kidney clearance of LVAN-S0456 compared to VAN-S0456 injected in mice can lead to enhanced efficacy against MRSA infections with reduced nephrotoxicity. Overall, our developed formulations of VAN when administered alone or in combination with CFZ, provide a rational approach for combating MRSA infections.

A CARP-1 functional mimetic compound is synergistic with BRAF-targeting in non-small cell lung cancers

Non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) account for 85% of all lung cancers, and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is highly expressed or activated in many NSCLC that permit use of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) as frontline therapies. Resistance to EGFR TKIs eventually develops that necessitates development of improved and effective therapeutics. CARP-1/CCAR1 is an effector of apoptosis by Doxorubicin, Etoposide, or Gefitinib, while CARP-1 functional mimetic (CFM) compounds bind with CARP-1, and stimulate CARP-1 expression and apoptosis. To test whether CFMs would inhibit TKI-resistant NSCLCs, we first generated and characterized TKI-resistant NSCLC cells. The GI₅₀ dose of Erlotinib for parental and Erlotinib-resistant HCC827 cells was ∼0.1 μM and ≥15 μM, respectively. While Rociletinib or Ocimertinib inhibited the parental H1975 cells with GI₅₀ doses of ≤0.18 μM, the Ocimertinib-resistant pools of H1975 cells had a GI₅₀ dose of ∼12 μM. The GI₅₀ dose for Rociletinib-resistant H1975 sublines ranged from 4.5-8.0 μM. CFM-4 and its novel analog CFM-4.16 attenuated growth of the parental and TKI-resistant NSCLC cells. CFMs activated p38/JNKs, inhibited oncogenic cMet and Akt kinases, while CARP-1 depletion blocked NSCLC cell growth inhibition by CFM-4.16 or Erlotinib. CFM-4.16 was synergistic with B-Raf-targeting in NSCLC, triple-negative breast cancer, and renal cancer cells. A nano-lipid formulation (NLF) of CFM-4.16 in combination with Sorafenib elicited a superior growth inhibition of xenografted tumors derived from Rociletinib-resistant H1975 NSCLC cells in part by stimulating CARP-1 and apoptosis. These findings support therapeutic potential of CFM-4.16 together with B-Raf targeting in treatment of TKI-resistant NSCLCs.

Abstract 3716: Tumor multicomponent targeting nano-micelles with synergistic combination to overcome drug resistance and reprogramming of macrophages in renal cell carcinoma

Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) contributes >90% of the most common form of kidney tumor and remains one of the ten leading causes of cancer death in the US. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors have increased therapeutic possibilities for treating RCC. Although the impact on disease progression is encouraging, a substantial proportion of patients do not respond adequately, and therapy resistance almost inevitably occurs. Eventually, new strategies have emerged that include immunotherapy such as PD-1 inhibitor (Nivolumab) and the combination of chemo-immune therapy. Possibly, combination treatment aimed at different, non-related pathways may be advantageous. In this regard, we would like to come up with synergistic therapeutic strategies for nonresponsive, highly aggressive tumor types to tackle the current clinical challenges. We have worked on different RCCs tumor models that in general have a poor prognosis with conventional therapies. We also pursued different combination regimens, including drugs that work on the mTOR inhibition (everolimus), inhibit RTK-inhibitor or VEGFR (cabozantinib or sorafenib). Also, there is a critical need to develop safe and effective delivery vehicles that can carry the payload to the right target tissue and cell. Thus, different types of nanoparticles have been designed to deliver a variety of therapeutic agents to target hypoxic tumor microenvironment by using carbonic anhydrase-9 (CA9); FRα for targeting cancer epithelial cells; and FRβ for targeting tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) and combination delivery of RTK-inhibitor Cabozantinib (CB) and sorafenib with our own apoptosis inducer/CARP-1 protein activator CFM-4.16 (C4.16) for overcoming drug resistance and reprograming TAM for RCC therapy. The current work also focused on multimodal approaches, including (a) Optimization of hypoxia marker conjugated targeted polymer-lipid nano-formulation (PLNP) using copper-free click chemistry; (b) In vitro and in vivo pre-clinical testing of targeted -PLNP loaded with polypharmacy in inhibiting RCCs using mice bearing resistant RCCs and patient-derived xenografts (PDX). The results of efficacy and biodistribution of targeted PLNPs in animals bearing RCC xenografts and PDX model showed higher accumulation of drugs at tumor sites with higher tumor growth inhibition. Also, the targeted formulation showed high binding affinity and specific tumor uptake, faster normal tissue clearance, and less non-target organ uptake. These findings portent promising therapeutic potential of hypoxia-targeted -PLNPs for treating RCCs.

Citation Format: Hashem O. Alsaab, Samaresh Sau, Vino T. Cheriyan, Rami Alzhrani, Ulka Vaishampayan, Arun K. Rishi, Arun K. Iyer. Tumor multicomponent targeting nano-micelles with synergistic combination to overcome drug resistance and reprogramming of macrophages in renal cell carcinoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3716.

Abstract 3707: PD-L1 antibody drug conjugate for cancer immune-chemo combination therapy

Antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) are a new form of targeted therapy to cancer, consisting of an antibody, a conditionally stable linker, and a cytotoxic drug. Immune checkpoint molecule, such as programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) overexpressed in various solid tumors including triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and it has a crucial role in tumor immune evasion. Blocking the interaction between PD-L1 and PD-1 (programmed death-1 receptor) resurrects tumor immune surveillance, resulting CD8+ cytotoxic T cells activation to attack the tumor cells. This is an emerging anticancer mechanism and more than four antibody inhibitors have been recently FDA approved against PD-1 or PD-L1 biomarker. Targeting PD-L1 in TNBC and NSCLC is an excellent approach for tumor immunotherapy. However, the major challenges of anti-PD-L1 therapy (Atezolizumab) are (i) the transient expression of PD-L1 in tumor microenvironment, (ii) development of anti-PD-L1 resistance, (iii) difficulty of tumor stroma penetration that retard its clinical outcome. To overcome these challenges, we chemically conjugated Atezolizumab (ATZ) with potent chemotherapeutic payload, such as Doxorubicin (Dox) through polyethylene glycol (PEG) linkers. The role of Dox is to break the tumor stroma so that PD-L1 antibody can penetrate to the core of the tumor. Introduction of PEG-linker with high molecular weight ATZ (155 kD) has drastically improved the solubility of ADC and successful chemical conjugation of between ATZ and PEG-Dox was evaluated by MALDI-TOF analysis. Our data has revealed significantly tumor cell killing effect and induction of apoptosis in PD-L1-Dox treated MDA-MB-231 cells. The near infrared imaging of PD-L1 dye conjugate in TNBC and NSCLC patient derived xenograft (PDx) supports the selective tumor targetability. Based on the synergistic anticancer effect and selective tumor targetability demonstrated in this study build a strong rational of using PD-L1 ADC approach for cancer immune-chemo therapy and diagnosis.

Citation Format: Samaresh Sau, Alex Petrovici, Hashem Alsaab, Arun K. Iyer. PD-L1 antibody drug conjugate for cancer immune-chemo combination therapy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3707.

An integrated computational approach of molecular dynamics simulations, receptor binding studies and pharmacophore mapping analysis in search of potent inhibitors against tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is an infectious chronic disease caused by obligate pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis that affects millions of people worldwide. Although many first and second line drugs are available for its treatment, but their irrational use has adversely lead to the emerging cases of multiple drug resistant and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis. Therefore, there is an intense need to develop novel potent analogues for its treatment. This has prompted us to develop potent analogues against TB. The Mycobacterium tuberculosis genome provides us with number of validated targets to combat against TB. Study of Mtb genome disclosed six epoxide hydrolases (A to F) which convert harmful epoxide into diols and act as a potential drug target for rational drug design. Our current strategy is to develop such analogues which inhibits epoxide hydrolase enzyme present in Mtb genome. To achieve this, we adopted an integrated computational approach involving QSAR, pharmacophore mapping, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies. The approach envisaged vital information about the role of molecular descriptors, essential pharmacophoric features and binding energy for compounds to bind into the active site of epoxide hydrolase. Molecular docking analysis revealed that analogues exhibited significant binding to Mtb epoxide hydrolase. Further, three docked complexes 2s, 37s and 15s with high, moderate and low docking scores respectively were selected for molecular dynamics simulation studies. RMSD analysis revealed that all complexes are stable with average RMSD below 2 Å throughout the 10 ns simulations. The B-factor analysis showed that the active site residues of epoxide hydrolase are flexible enough to interact with inhibitor. Moreover, to confirm the binding of these urea derivatives, MM-GBSA binding energy analysis were performed. The calculations showed that 37s has more binding affinity (ΔGtotal = -52.24 kcal/mol) towards epoxide hydrolase compared to 2s (ΔGtotal = -51.70 kcal/mol) and 15s (ΔGtotal = -49.97 kcal/mol). The structural features inferred in our study may provide the future directions to the scientists towards the discovery of new chemical entity exhibiting anti-TB property.

CD44 directed nanomicellar payload delivery platform for selective anticancer effect and tumor specific imaging of triple negative breast cancer

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive tumor subtype, lacking estrogen, progesterone and human epidermal growth factor-2 (HER-2) receptors. Thus, early detection and targeted therapy of TNBC is an urgent need. Herein, we have developed a CD44 targeting Hyaluronic Acid (HA) decorated biocompatible oligomer, containing FDA approved vitamin E TPGS and Styrene Maleic Anhydride (SMA) (HA-SMA-TPGS) for targeting TNBC. The self-assembling HA-SMA-TPGS was encapsulated with poorly water soluble, potent curcumin analogue (CDF) to form nanomicelles (NM), HA-SMA-TPGS-CDF has demonstrated excellent nanoparticle characteristics for parenteral delivery. The targeted NM can selectively kill TNBC cells through CD44 mediated apoptosis pathway. Tumor imaging using phase-2 clinical trial near infrared (NIR)-fluorescent dye (S0456) conjugate, HA-SMA-TPGS-S0456 showed excellent TNBC tumor accumulation with minimum liver and spleen uptake. To our best of knowledge, for the first time, we are reporting a promising platform for CD44 mediated multimodal NIR imaging and cytotoxin delivery to TNBC.

Multifunctional nanoparticles for cancer immunotherapy: A groundbreaking approach for reprogramming malfunctioned tumor environment

Several cancer immunotherapy approaches have been recently introduced into the clinics and they have shown remarkable therapeutic potentials. The groundbreaking cancer immunotherapeutic agents function as a stimulant or modulator of the body immune system to fight against or kill cancers. Although targeted immunotherapies such as immune check point inhibitors (CTLA-4 or PD-1/PD-L1), DNA vaccination and CAR-T therapy are revolutionizing cancer treatment, the delivery efficacy can be further improved while their off-target toxicity can be mitigated through nanotechnology approaches. Recent research has demonstrated that nanotechnology has multifaceted role for (i) reeducating tumor associated macrophages (TAM) to function as tumor suppressor agent, (ii) serving as an efficient alternative for Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T cell generation and transduction, and (iii) selective knockdown of Kras oncogene addiction by nano-Crisper-Cas9 delivery system. The function of host immune stimulatory signals and tumor immunotherapies can further be improved by repurposing of nanomedicine platform. This review summarizes the role of multifunctional polymeric, lipid, metallic and cell based nanoparticles for improving current immunotherapy.

A tumor multicomponent targeting chemoimmune drug delivery system for reprograming the tumor microenvironment and personalized cancer therapy

Nanoparticle library engineered with tunable size, shape, and geometry will provide a better idea of targeting multicomponent of tumor microenvironment consisting of epithelial cells, tumor hypoxia, tumor immune cells and angiogenic blood vessels.

A CARP-1 functional mimetic loaded vitamin E-TPGS micellar nano-formulation for inhibition of renal cell carcinoma

Current treatments for Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) include a combination of surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Emergence of resistant RCCs contributes to failure of drugs and poor prognosis, and thus warrants development of new and improved treatment options for RCCs. Here we generated and characterized RCC cells that are resistant to Everolimus, a frontline mToR-targeted therapy, and tested whether our novel class of CARP-1 functional mimetic (CFM) compounds inhibit parental and Everolimus-resistant RCC cells. CFMs inhibited RCC cell viability in a dose-dependent manner that was comparable to Everolimus treatments. The GI₅₀ dose of Everolimus for parental A498 cells was ∼1.2μM while it was <0.02μM for the parental UOK262 and UOK268 cells. The GI₅₀ dose for Everolimus-resistant A498, UOK262, and UOK268 cells were ≥10.0μM, 1.8-7.0μM, and 7.0-≥10.0μM, respectively. CFM-4 and its novel analog CFM-4.16 inhibited viabilities of Everolimus resistant RCC cells albeit CFM-4.16 was more effective than CFM-4. CFM-dependent loss of RCC cell viabilities was due in part to reduced cyclin B1 levels, activation of pro-apoptotic, stress-activated protein kinases (SAPKs), and apoptosis. CFM-4.16 suppressed growth of resistant RCC cells in three-dimensional suspension cultures. However, CFMs are hydrophobic and their intravenous administration and dose escalation for in-vivo studies remain challenging. In this study, we encapsulated CFM-4.16 in Vitamin-E TPGS-based- nanomicelles that resulted in its water-soluble formulation with higher CFM-4.16 loading (30% w/w). This CFM-4.16 formulation inhibited viability of parental and Everolimus-resistant RCC cells in vitro, and suppressed growth of parental A498 RCC-cell-derived xenografts in part by stimulating apoptosis. These findings portent promising therapeutic potential of CFM-4.16 for treatment of RCCs.

Recent advances in TPGS-based nanoparticles of docetaxel for improved chemotherapy

Docetaxel (DTX) is one of the important antitumor drugs, being used in several common chemotherapies to control leading cancer types. Severe toxicities of the DTX are prominent due to sudden parenteral exposure of desired loading dose to maintain the therapeutic concentration. Field of nanotechnology is leading to resist sudden systemic exposure of DTX with more specific delivery to the site of cancer. Further nanometric size range of the formulation aid for prolonged circulation, thereby extensive exposure results better efficacy. In this article, we extensively reviewed the therapeutic benefit of incorporating d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (vitamin E TPGS, or simply TPGS) in the nanoparticle (NP) formulation of DTX for improved delivery, tumor control and tolerability. TPGS is well accepted nonionic-ampiphilic polymer which has been identified in the role of emulsifier, stabilizer, penetration enhancer, solubilizer and in protection in micelle. Simultaneously, P-glycoprotein inhibitory activity of TPGS in the multidrug resistant (MDR) cancer cells along with its apoptotic potential are the added advantage of TPGS to be incorporated in nano-chemotherapeutics. Thus, it could be concluded that TPGS based nanoparticulate application is an advanced approach to improve therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents by better internalization and sustained retention of the NPs.

PD-1 and PD-L1 Checkpoint Signaling Inhibition for Cancer Immunotherapy: Mechanism, Combinations, and Clinical Outcome

Several cancers are highly refractory to conventional chemotherapy. The survival of tumors in several cases is assisted by checkpoint immunomodulation to maintain the imbalance between immune surveillance and cancer cell proliferation. Check point antibody inhibitors, such as anti-PD-1/PD-L1, are a novel class of inhibitors that function as a tumor suppressing factor via modulation of immune cell-tumor cell interaction. These checkpoint blockers are rapidly becoming a highly promising cancer therapeutic approach that yields remarkable antitumor responses with limited side effects. In recent times, more than four check point antibody inhibitors have been commercialized for targeting PD-1, PDL-1, and CTLA-4. Despite the huge success and efficacy of the anti-PD therapy response, it is limited to specific types of cancers, which attributes to the insufficient and heterogeneous expression of PD-1 in the tumor microenvironment. Herein, we review the current landscape of the PD-1/PD-L1 mechanistic role in tumor immune evasion and therapeutic outcome for cancer treatment. We also review the current progress in clinical trials, combination of drug therapy with immunotherapy, safety, and future of check point inhibitors for multiple types of cancer.

Dendrimer nanohybrid carrier systems: an expanding horizon for targeted drug and gene delivery

Highly controllable dendritic structural design means dendrimers are a leading carrier in drug delivery applications. Dendrimer- and other nanocarrier-based hybrid systems are an emerging platform in the field of drug delivery. This review is a compilation of increasing reports of dendrimer interactions, such as dendrimer-liposome, dendrimer-carbon-nanotube, among others, known as hybrid carriers. This should prompt entirely new research with promising results for these hybrid carriers. It is assumed that such emerging hybrid nanosystems - from combining two already-established drug delivery platforms - could lead the way for the development of newer delivery systems with multiple applicability for latent theranostic applications in the future.

Nanostructured lipid carriers employing polyphenols as promising anticancer agents: Quality by design (QbD) approach

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. There are several hurdles in cancer therapy because of side-effects which limits its usage. Nanoparticulate drug delivery systems have been tested against cancer in a range of scientific studies. In the recent years, advanced research on Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs) has garnered considerable attention owing to the advantages over their first-generation counterparts, Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN). NLCs facilitate efficient loading of poorly water soluble drugs with simple methods of drug loading. Recently, there is an increased interest in polyphenols because of the evidence of their promising role in prevention of cancer. Polyphenols are produced as secondary metabolites by plants. Their role in prevention of development of tumors through variety of mechanisms and reduction of tumor cell mass has been reported. This article aims to review the science behind development of NLCs and role of polyphenols as promising anticancer agents. Principles of Quality by Design (QbD) have also been explained which are used in formulation-development of many nanoparticles, including NLCs, as reported in literature.