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De Diana E, Rizzotto E, Inciardi I, Menilli L, Coppola M, Polverino de Laureto P, Miolo G. Towards a better understanding of light-glucose induced modifications on the structure and biological activity of formulated Nivolumab. Int J Pharm 2024; 654:123926. [PMID: 38401872 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.123926] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
In the last years, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have rapidly escalated as biopharmaceuticals into cancer treatments, mainly for their target specificity accompanied by less side effects than the traditional chemotherapy, and stimulation of reliable long-term anti-tumoral responses. They are potentially unstable macromolecules under shaking, temperature fluctuations, humidity, and indoor and outdoor light exposure, all stressors occurring throughout their production, transport, storage, handling, and administration steps. The chemical and physical modifications of mAbs can lead not only to the loss of their bioactivity, but also to the enhancement of their immunogenicity with increasing risk of severe hypersensitivity reactions in treated patients because of aggregation. The photostability of Nivolumab, the active principle of Opdivo®, has been here studied. The chemical modifications detected by LC-MS/MS after the light stressor showed Trp and Met mono and double oxidations as primary damage induced by light on this mAb. The oxidations were stronger when the mAb was diluted in sterile glucose solution where 5-HMF, a major heat glucose degradation product, acted as singlet oxygen producer under irradiation. However, no significant changes in the mAb conformation were found. On the contrary, formation of a significant extent of aggregates has been detected after shining high simulated sunlight doses. This again took place particularly when Nivolumab was diluted in sterile glucose, thus raising a direct correlation between the aggregation and the oxidative processes. Finally, the biological activity under light stress assessed by a blockade assay test demonstrated the maintenance of the PD-1 target recognition even under high light doses and in glucose solution, in line with the preservation of the secondary and tertiary structures of the mAb. Based on our results, as sterile glucose is mostly used for children's therapies, special warnings, and precautions for healthcare professionals should be included for their use to the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta De Diana
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo, 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Elena Rizzotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo, 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Ilenia Inciardi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo, 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Menilli
- IOV, Istituto Oncologico Veneto, IRCCS, Via Gattamelata, 64, 35 128 Padova, Italy
| | - Marina Coppola
- IOV, Istituto Oncologico Veneto, IRCCS, Via Gattamelata, 64, 35 128 Padova, Italy
| | - Patrizia Polverino de Laureto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo, 5, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Giorgia Miolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo, 5, 35131 Padova, Italy.
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Tubertini M, Menilli L, Milani C, Martini C, Navacchia ML, Nugnes M, Bartolini M, Naldi M, Tedesco D, Martella E, Guerrini A, Ferroni C, Moret F, Varchi G. HSA-nanobinders crafted from bioresponsive prodrugs for combined cancer chemoimmunotherapy-an in vitro exploration. Front Chem 2024; 12:1378233. [PMID: 38591056 PMCID: PMC7615814 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1378233] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer still lacking effective treatment options. Chemotherapy in combination with immunotherapy can restrict tumor progression and repolarize the tumor microenvironment towards an anti-tumor milieu, improving clinical outcome in TNBC patients. The chemotherapeutic drug paclitaxel has been shown to induce immunogenic cell death (ICD), whereas inhibitors of the indoleamine 2,3- dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) enzyme, whose expression is shared in immune regulatory and tumor cells, have been revealed to enhance the anti-tumor immune response. However, poor bioavailability and pharmacokinetics, off-target effects and hurdles in achieving therapeutic drug concentrations at the target tissue often limit the effectiveness of combination therapies. Methods This work describes the development of novel biomimetic and carrier-free nanobinders (NBs) loaded with both paclitaxel and the IDO1 inhibitor NLG919 in the form of bioresponsive and biomimetic prodrugs. A fine tuning of the preparation conditions allowed to identify NB@5 as the most suitable nanoformulation in terms of reproducibility, stability and in vitro effectiveness. Results and discussion Our data show that NB@5 effectively binds to HSA in cell-free experiments, demonstrating its protective role in the controlled release of drugs and suggesting the potential to exploit the protein as the endogenous vehicle for targeted delivery to the tumor site. Our study successfully proves that the drugs encapsulated within the NBs are preferentially released under the altered redox conditions commonly found in the tumor microenvironment, thereby inducing cell death, promoting ICD, and inhibiting IDO1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilde Tubertini
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Menilli
- Pharmacy Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCSS, Padua, Italy
| | - Celeste Milani
- Department of Biology (DiBio), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Cecilia Martini
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Navacchia
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Bologna, Italy
| | - Marta Nugnes
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuela Bartolini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marina Naldi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniele Tedesco
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Martella
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Guerrini
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudia Ferroni
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Moret
- Department of Biology (DiBio), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Greta Varchi
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Bologna, Italy
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Zanin A, Meneghetti G, Menilli L, Tesoriere A, Argenton F, Mognato M. Correction: Zanin et al. Analysis of Radiation Toxicity in Mammalian Cells Stably Transduced with Mitochondrial Stat3. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 8232. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3672. [PMID: 38612944 PMCID: PMC11011433 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In the original publication [...].
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Maddalena Mognato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
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Morbiato L, Quaggia C, Menilli L, Dalla Torre C, Barbon A, De Zotti M. Synthesis, Conformational Analysis and Antitumor Activity of the Naturally Occurring Antimicrobial Medium-Length Peptaibol Pentadecaibin and Spin-Labeled Analogs Thereof. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13396. [PMID: 37686199 PMCID: PMC10487733 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713396] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptaibols are proteolysis-resistant, membrane-active peptides. Their remarkably stable helical 3D-structures are key for their bioactivity. They can insert themselves into the lipid bilayer as barrel staves, or lay on its surface like carpets, depending on both their length and the thickness of the lipid bilayer. Medium-length peptaibols are of particular interest for studying the peptide-membrane interaction because their length allows them to adopt either orientation as a function of the membrane thickness, which, in turn, might even result in an enhanced selectivity. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) is the election technique used to this aim, but it requires the synthesis of spin-labeled medium-length peptaibols, which, in turn, is hampered by the poor reactivity of the Cα-tetrasubstituted residues featured in their sequences. After several years of trial and error, we are now able to give state-of-the-art advice for a successful synthesis of nitroxide-containing peptaibols, avoiding deleted sequences, side reactions and difficult purification steps. Herein, we describe our strategy and itsapplication to the synthesis of spin-labeled analogs of the recently discovered, natural, medium-length peptaibol pentadecaibin. We studied the antitumor activity of pentadecaibin and its analogs, finding potent cytotoxicity against human triple-negative breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Finally, our analysis of the peptide conformational preferences and membrane interaction proved that pentadecaibinspin-labeling does not alter the biological features of the native sequence and is suitable for further EPR studies. The nitroxide-containing pentadecaibins, and their synthetic strategy described herein, will help to shed light on the mechanism of the peptide-membrane interaction of medium-length peptaibols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Morbiato
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (C.Q.); (C.D.T.); (A.B.)
| | - Celeste Quaggia
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (C.Q.); (C.D.T.); (A.B.)
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Chiara Dalla Torre
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (C.Q.); (C.D.T.); (A.B.)
| | - Antonio Barbon
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (C.Q.); (C.D.T.); (A.B.)
| | - Marta De Zotti
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (C.Q.); (C.D.T.); (A.B.)
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Varponi I, Ferro S, Menilli L, Grapputo A, Moret F, Mastrotto F, Marin O, Sandrelli F. Fighting Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections: Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity of D-Q53 CecB, a Synthetic Analog of a Silkworm Natural Cecropin B Variant. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12496. [PMID: 37569868 PMCID: PMC10419416 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512496] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic Gram-negative bacterium responsible for severe nosocomial infections and is considered a critical pulmonary pathogen for both immunocompromised and cystic fibrosis patients. Planktonic cells of P. aeruginosa possess intrinsic and acquired resistances, inactivating several classes of conventional antibiotics. Additionally, this bacterium can grow, forming biofilms, and complex structures, further hampering the action of multiple antibiotics. Here, we report the biological properties of D-Q53 CecB, an all-D enantiomer of the silkworm natural peptide Q53 CecB. Compared to the L-variant, D-Q53 CecB was resistant to in vitro degradation by humans and P. aeruginosa elastases and showed an enhanced bactericidal activity against P. aeruginosa planktonic bacteria. D-Q53 CecB was thermostable and maintained its antimicrobial activity at high salt concentrations and in the presence of divalent cations or fetal-bovine serum, although at reduced levels. Against different types of human cells, D-Q53 CecB showed cytotoxic phenomena at concentrations several folds higher compared to those active against P. aeruginosa. When L- and D-Q53 CecB were compared for their antibiofilm properties, both peptides were active in inhibiting biofilm formation. However, the D-enantiomer was extremely effective in inducing biofilm degradation, suggesting this peptide as a favorable candidate in an anti-Pseudomonas therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Varponi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (I.V.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (F.M.)
| | - Stefania Ferro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (S.F.); (O.M.)
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (I.V.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (F.M.)
| | - Alessandro Grapputo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (I.V.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (F.M.)
- National Biodiversity Future Centre, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesca Moret
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (I.V.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesca Mastrotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Oriano Marin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (S.F.); (O.M.)
| | - Federica Sandrelli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (I.V.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (F.M.)
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Avancini G, Menilli L, Visentin A, Milani C, Mastrotto F, Moret F. Mesenchymal Stem Cell Membrane-Coated TPCS 2a-Loaded Nanoparticles for Breast Cancer Photodynamic Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1654. [PMID: 37376102 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15061654] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite substantial improvements in breast cancer (BC) treatment there is still an urgent need to find alternative treatment options to improve the outcomes for patients with advanced-stage disease. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is gaining a lot of attention as a BC therapeutic option because of its selectivity and low off-target effects. However, the hydrophobicity of photosensitizers (PSs) impairs their solubility and limits the circulation in the bloodstream, thus representing a major challenge. The use of polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) to encapsulate the PS may represent a valuable strategy to overcome these issues. Herein, we developed a novel biomimetic PDT nanoplatform (NPs) based on a polymeric core of poly(lactic-co-glycolic)acid (PLGA) loaded with the PS meso-tetraphenylchlorin disulfonate (TPCS2a). TPCS2a@NPs of 98.89 ± 18.56 nm with an encapsulation efficiency percentage (EE%) of 81.9 ± 7.92% were obtained and coated with mesenchymal stem cells-derived plasma membranes (mMSCs) (mMSC-TPCS2a@NPs, size of 139.31 ± 12.94 nm). The mMSC coating armed NPs with biomimetic features to impart long circulation times and tumor-homing capabilities. In vitro, biomimetic mMSC-TPCS2a@NPs showed a decrease in macrophage uptake of 54% to 70%, depending on the conditions applied, as compared to uncoated TPCS2a@NPs. Both NP formulations efficiently accumulated in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 BC cells, while the uptake was significantly lower in normal breast epithelial MCF10A cells with respect to tumor cells. Moreover, encapsulation of TPCS2a in mMSC-TPCS2a@NPs effectively prevents its aggregation, ensuring efficient singlet oxygen (1O2) production after red light irradiation, which resulted in a considerable in vitro anticancer effect in both BC cell monolayers (IC50 < 0.15 µM) and three-dimensional spheroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Avancini
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Adele Visentin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Celeste Milani
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Mastrotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Moret
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
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7
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Zanin A, Meneghetti G, Menilli L, Tesoriere A, Argenton F, Mognato M. Analysis of Radiation Toxicity in Mammalian Cells Stably Transduced with Mitochondrial Stat3. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:8232. [PMID: 37175941 PMCID: PMC10179518 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A coordinated action between nuclear and mitochondrial activities is essential for a proper cellular response to genotoxic stress. Several nuclear transcription factors, including STAT3, translocate to mitochondria to exert mitochondrial function regulation; however, the role of mitochondrial STAT3 (mitoSTAT3) under stressed conditions is still poorly understood. In this study, we examined whether the stable expression of mitoSTAT3 wild-type or mutated at the conserved serine residue (Ser727), which is involved in the mitochondrial function of STAT3, can affect the DNA damage response to UVC radiation. To address this issue, we generated mammalian cells (NIH-3T3 and HCT-116 cells) stably transduced to express the mitochondrial-targeted Stat3 gene in its wild-type or Ser727 mutated forms. Our results show that cell proliferation is enhanced in mitoStat3-transduced cells under both non-stressed and stressed conditions. Once irradiated with UVC, cells expressing wild-type mitoSTAT3 showed the highest cell survival, which was associated with a significant decrease in cell death. Low levels of oxidative stress were detected in UVC-irradiated NIH-3T3 cells expressing mitoSTAT3 wild-type or serine-related dominant active form (Ser727D), confirming a role of mitochondrial STAT3 in minimizing oxidant cellular stress that provides an advantage for cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Maddalena Mognato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.Z.); (G.M.); (L.M.); (A.T.); (F.A.)
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8
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Barreca M, Ingarra AM, Raimondi MV, Spanò V, Piccionello AP, De Franco M, Menilli L, Gandin V, Miolo G, Barraja P, Montalbano A. New tricyclic systems as photosensitizers towards triple negative breast cancer cells. Arch Pharm Res 2022; 45:806-821. [DOI: 10.1007/s12272-022-01414-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
AbstractNineteen pyrrolo[1,2-h][1,7]naphthyridinones and pyrido[2,3-c]pyrrolo[1,2-a]azepinones were synthesized as new tricyclic systems in which the pyridine ring is annelated to the 6,7-dihydroindolizin-8(5H)-one and 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-9H-pyrrole[1,2-a]azepine-9-one moieties to obtain potential photosensitizing agents. They were tested for their photoantiproliferative activity on a triple-negative breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231, in the dark and under UVA light (2.0 J/cm2). We demonstrated that their toxicity, only when exposed to light, was primarily due to the generation of reactive oxygen species while their photodegradation products were not responsible for their activity. The most active compounds exhibited photocytotoxicity with IC50 values at low micromolar level inducing a decrease in the intracellular content of thiol, thus triggering cancer cell death through apoptosis. All the pyridone derivatives revealed to be pure photosensitizers with preferential photocytotoxic activity towards cancerous over healthy cells. Altogether, the results obtained confirm pyrrolo[1,2-h][1,7]naphthyridinones and pyrido[2,3-c]pyrrolo[1,2-a]azepinones as promising photosensitisers against triple-negative breast cancer.
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Menilli L, Milani C, Reddi E, Moret F. Overview of Nanoparticle-Based Approaches for the Combination of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) and Chemotherapy at the Preclinical Stage. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184462. [PMID: 36139623 PMCID: PMC9496990 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The present review represents the outstanding and promising recent literature reports (2017–2022) on nanoparticle-based formulations developed for anticancer therapy with photodynamic therapy (PDT), photosensitizers, and chemotherapeutics. Besides brief descriptions of chemotherapeutics’ classification and of PDT mechanisms and limitations, several examples of nanosystems endowed with different responsiveness (e.g., acidic pH and reactive oxygen species) and peculiarity (e.g., tumor oxygenation capacity, active tumor targeting, and biomimetic features) are described, and for each drug combination, in vitro and in vivo results on preclinical cancer models are reported. Abstract The widespread diffusion of photodynamic therapy (PDT) as a clinical treatment for solid tumors is mainly limited by the patient’s adverse reaction (skin photosensivity), insufficient light penetration in deeply seated neoplastic lesions, unfavorable photosensitizers (PSs) biodistribution, and photokilling efficiency due to PS aggregation in biological environments. Despite this, recent preclinical studies reported on successful combinatorial regimes of PSs with chemotherapeutics obtained through the drugs encapsulation in multifunctional nanometric delivery systems. The aim of the present review deals with the punctual description of several nanosystems designed not only with the objective of co-transporting a PS and a chemodrug for combination therapy, but also with the goal of improving the therapeutic efficacy by facing the main critical issues of both therapies (side effects, scarce tumor oxygenation and light penetration, premature drug clearance, unspecific biodistribution, etc.). Therefore, particular attention is paid to the description of bio-responsive drugs and nanoparticles (NPs), targeted nanosystems, biomimetic approaches, and upconverting NPs, including analyzing the therapeutic efficacy of the proposed photo-chemotherapeutic regimens in in vitro and in vivo cancer models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Menilli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Celeste Milani
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy
- Institute of Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity, ISOF-CNR, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Reddi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.R.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesca Moret
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.R.); (F.M.)
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Barreca M, Ingarra AM, Raimondi MV, Spanò V, De Franco M, Menilli L, Gandin V, Miolo G, Barraja P, Montalbano A. Insight on pyrimido[5,4-g]indolizine and pyrimido[4,5-c]pyrrolo[1,2-a]azepine systems as promising photosensitizers on malignant cells. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 237:114399. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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11
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Parisi C, Moret F, Fraix A, Menilli L, Failla M, Sodano F, Conte C, Quaglia F, Reddi E, Sortino S. Doxorubicin-NO Releaser Molecular Hybrid Activatable by Green Light to Overcome Resistance in Breast Cancer Cells. ACS Omega 2022; 7:7452-7459. [PMID: 35284722 PMCID: PMC8908524 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c03988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The biological activity of a molecular hybrid (DXNO-GR) joining doxorubicin (DOX) and an N-nitroso moiety releasing nitric oxide (NO) under irradiation with the biocompatible green light has been investigated against DOX-sensitive (MCF7) and -resistant (MDA-MB-231) breast cancer cells in vitro. DXNO-GR shows significantly higher cellular internalization than DOX in both cell lines and, in contrast to DOX, does not experience cell efflux in MDR overexpressing MDA-MB-231 cells. The higher cellular internalization of the DXNO-GR hybrid seems to be mediated by bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a suitable carrier among serum proteins, according to the high binding constant measured for DXNO-GR, which is more than one order of magnitude larger than that reported for DOX. Despite the higher cellular accumulation, DXNO-GR is not toxic in the dark but induces remarkable cell death following photoactivation with green light. This lack of dark toxicity is strictly related to the different cellular compartmentalization of the molecular hybrid that, different from DOX, does not localize in the nucleus but is mainly confined in the Golgi apparatus and endoplasmic reticulum and therefore does not act as a DNA intercalator. The photochemical properties of the hybrid are not affected by binding to BSA as demonstrated by the direct detection of NO photorelease, suggesting that the reduction of cell viability observed under light irradiation is a combined effect of DOX phototoxicity and NO release which, ultimately, inhibits MDR1 efflux pump in DOX-resistant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Parisi
- Department
of Drug and Health Sciences, University
of Catania, I-95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca Moret
- Department
of Biology, University of Padova, I-35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Aurore Fraix
- Department
of Drug and Health Sciences, University
of Catania, I-95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department
of Biology, University of Padova, I-35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Mariacristina Failla
- Department
of Science and Drug Technology, University
of Torino, I-10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Sodano
- Department
of Drug and Health Sciences, University
of Catania, I-95125 Catania, Italy
- Department
of Science and Drug Technology, University
of Torino, I-10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Claudia Conte
- Drug
Delivery Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, I-80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Fabiana Quaglia
- Drug
Delivery Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, I-80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Elena Reddi
- Department
of Biology, University of Padova, I-35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Salvatore Sortino
- Department
of Drug and Health Sciences, University
of Catania, I-95125 Catania, Italy
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12
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Menilli L, Monteiro AR, Lazzarotto S, Morais FMP, Gomes ATPC, Moura NMM, Fateixa S, Faustino MAF, Neves MGPMS, Trindade T, Miolo G. Graphene Oxide and Graphene Quantum Dots as Delivery Systems of Cationic Porphyrins: Photo-Antiproliferative Activity Evaluation towards T24 Human Bladder Cancer Cells. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13091512. [PMID: 34575587 PMCID: PMC8470602 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of new photodynamic therapy (PDT) agents designed for bladder cancer (BC) treatments is of utmost importance to prevent its recurrence and progression towards more invasive forms. Here, three different porphyrinic photosensitizers (PS) (TMPyP, Zn-TMPyP, and P1-C5) were non-covalently loaded onto graphene oxide (GO) or graphene quantum dots (GQDs) in a one-step process. The cytotoxic effects of the free PS and of the corresponding hybrids were compared upon blue (BL) and red-light (RL) exposure on T24 human BC cells. In addition, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and singlet oxygen generation were measured. TMPyP and Zn-TMPyP showed higher efficiency under BL (IC50: 0.42 and 0.22 μm, respectively), while P1-C5 was more active under RL (IC50: 0.14 μm). In general, these PS could induce apoptotic cell death through lysosomes damage. The in vitro photosensitizing activity of the PS was not compromised after their immobilization onto graphene-based nanomaterials, with Zn-TMPyP@GQDs being the most promising hybrid system under RL (IC50: 0.37 μg/mL). Overall, our data confirm that GO and GQDs may represent valid platforms for PS delivery, without altering their performance for PDT on BC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Menilli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (S.L.)
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Ana R. Monteiro
- CICECO—Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.R.M.); (S.F.)
- LAQV—Requimte, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (F.M.P.M.); (N.M.M.M.); (M.A.F.F.)
| | - Silvia Lazzarotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (S.L.)
| | - Filipe M. P. Morais
- LAQV—Requimte, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (F.M.P.M.); (N.M.M.M.); (M.A.F.F.)
| | - Ana T. P. C. Gomes
- CESAM, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
- Center for Interdisciplinary Investigation (CIIS), Faculty of Dental Medicine, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 3504-505 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Nuno M. M. Moura
- LAQV—Requimte, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (F.M.P.M.); (N.M.M.M.); (M.A.F.F.)
| | - Sara Fateixa
- CICECO—Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.R.M.); (S.F.)
| | - Maria A. F. Faustino
- LAQV—Requimte, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (F.M.P.M.); (N.M.M.M.); (M.A.F.F.)
| | - Maria G. P. M. S. Neves
- LAQV—Requimte, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (F.M.P.M.); (N.M.M.M.); (M.A.F.F.)
- Correspondence: (M.G.P.M.S.N.); (T.T.); (G.M.)
| | - Tito Trindade
- CICECO—Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.R.M.); (S.F.)
- Correspondence: (M.G.P.M.S.N.); (T.T.); (G.M.)
| | - Giorgia Miolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (L.M.); (S.L.)
- Correspondence: (M.G.P.M.S.N.); (T.T.); (G.M.)
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13
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Moret F, Menilli L, Battan M, Tedesco D, Columbaro M, Guerrini A, Avancini G, Ferroni C, Varchi G. Pheophorbide A and Paclitaxel Bioresponsive Nanoparticles as Double-Punch Platform for Cancer Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13081130. [PMID: 34452091 PMCID: PMC8399365 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapy is still a challenging issue. To address this, the combination of anticancer drugs with other therapeutic modalities, such as light-triggered therapies, has emerged as a promising approach, primarily when both active ingredients are provided within a single nanosystem. Herein, we describe the unprecedented preparation of tumor microenvironment (TME) responsive nanoparticles exclusively composed of a paclitaxel (PTX) prodrug and the photosensitizer pheophorbide A (PheoA), e.g., PheoA≅PTX2S. This system aimed to achieve both the TME-triggered and controlled release of PTX and the synergistic/additive effect by PheoA-mediated photodynamic therapy. PheoA≅PTX2S were produced in a simple one-pot process, exhibiting excellent reproducibility, stability, and the ability to load up to 100% PTX and 40% of PheoA. Exposure of PheoA≅PTX2S nanoparticles to TME-mimicked environment provided fast disassembly compared to normal conditions, leading to PTX and PheoA release and consequently elevated cytotoxicity. Our data indicate that PheoA incorporation into nanoparticles prevents its aggregation, thus providing a greater extent of ROS and singlet oxygen production. Importantly, in SK-OV-3 cells, PheoA≅PTX2S allowed a 30-fold PTX dose reduction and a 3-fold dose reduction of PheoA. Our data confirm that prodrug-based nanocarriers represent valuable and sustainable drug delivery systems, possibly reducing toxicity and expediting preclinical and clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Moret
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy; (F.M.); (L.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy; (F.M.); (L.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Manuele Battan
- Institute for the Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity—Italian National Research Council, 40121 Bologna, Italy; (M.B.); (D.T.); (A.G.)
| | - Daniele Tedesco
- Institute for the Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity—Italian National Research Council, 40121 Bologna, Italy; (M.B.); (D.T.); (A.G.)
| | | | - Andrea Guerrini
- Institute for the Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity—Italian National Research Council, 40121 Bologna, Italy; (M.B.); (D.T.); (A.G.)
| | - Greta Avancini
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35100 Padova, Italy; (F.M.); (L.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Claudia Ferroni
- Institute for the Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity—Italian National Research Council, 40121 Bologna, Italy; (M.B.); (D.T.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence: (C.F.); (G.V.); Tel.: +39-0516398283 (G.V.)
| | - Greta Varchi
- Institute for the Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity—Italian National Research Council, 40121 Bologna, Italy; (M.B.); (D.T.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence: (C.F.); (G.V.); Tel.: +39-0516398283 (G.V.)
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14
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Parisi C, Failla M, Fraix A, Menilli L, Moret F, Reddi E, Rolando B, Spyrakis F, Lazzarato L, Fruttero R, Gasco A, Sortino S. A generator of peroxynitrite activatable with red light. Chem Sci 2021; 12:4740-4746. [PMID: 34163730 PMCID: PMC8179535 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc06970a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) as “unconventional” therapeutics with precise spatiotemporal control by using light stimuli may open entirely new horizons for innovative therapeutic modalities. Among ROS and RNS, peroxynitrite (ONOO−) plays a dominant role in chemistry and biology in view of its potent oxidizing power and cytotoxic action. We have designed and synthesized a molecular hybrid based on benzophenothiazine as a red light-harvesting antenna joined to an N-nitroso appendage through a flexible spacer. Single photon red light excitation of this molecular construct triggers the release of nitric oxide (˙NO) and simultaneously produces superoxide anions (O2˙−). The diffusion-controlled reaction between these two radical species generates ONOO−, as confirmed by the use of fluorescein-boronate as a highly selective chemical probe. Besides, the red fluorescence of the hybrid allows its tracking in different types of cancer cells where it is well-tolerated in the dark but induces remarkable cell mortality under irradiation with red light in a very low concentration range, with very low light doses (ca. 1 J cm−2). This ONOO− generator activatable by highly biocompatible and tissue penetrating single photon red light can open up intriguing prospects in biomedical research, where precise and spatiotemporally controlled concentrations of ONOO− are required. Excitation of a molecular hybrid with highly biocompatible red light generates cytotoxic peroxynitrite, produces red fluorescence useful for cell tracking and induces remarkable cancer cell death at very low concentrations and very low light doses.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Parisi
- PhotoChemLab, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania I-95125 Italy
| | - Mariacristina Failla
- Department of Science and Drug Technology, University of Torino I-10125 Torino Italy
| | - Aurore Fraix
- PhotoChemLab, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania I-95125 Italy
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova I-35131 Padova Italy
| | - Francesca Moret
- Department of Biology, University of Padova I-35131 Padova Italy
| | - Elena Reddi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova I-35131 Padova Italy
| | - Barbara Rolando
- Department of Science and Drug Technology, University of Torino I-10125 Torino Italy
| | - Francesca Spyrakis
- Department of Science and Drug Technology, University of Torino I-10125 Torino Italy
| | - Loretta Lazzarato
- Department of Science and Drug Technology, University of Torino I-10125 Torino Italy
| | - Roberta Fruttero
- Department of Science and Drug Technology, University of Torino I-10125 Torino Italy
| | - Alberto Gasco
- Department of Science and Drug Technology, University of Torino I-10125 Torino Italy
| | - Salvatore Sortino
- PhotoChemLab, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania I-95125 Italy
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15
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Sturaro G, Tasso A, Menilli L, Di Liddo R, Miolo G, Conconi MT. 4,6,4'-Trimethylangelicin Photoactivated by Blue Light Might Represent an Interesting Option for Photochemotherapy of Non-Invasive Bladder Carcinoma: An In Vitro Study on T24 Cells. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020158. [PMID: 33504020 PMCID: PMC7911445 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020158] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is frequently used to treat non-muscle invasive bladder cancer due its low toxicity and high selectivity. Since recurrence often occurs, alternative approaches and/or designs of combined therapies to improve PDT effectiveness are needed. This work aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of 4,6,4′-trimethylangelicin (TMA) photoactivated by blue light (BL) on human bladder cancer T24 cells and investigate the mechanisms underlying its biological effects. TMA/BL exerted antiproliferative activity through the induction of apoptosis without genotoxicity, as demonstrated by the expression levels of phospho-H2AX, an indicator of DNA double-stranded breaks. It also modulated the Wnt canonical signal pathway by increasing the phospho-β-catenin and decreasing the nuclear levels of β-catenin. The inhibition of this pathway was due to the modulation of the GSK3β phosphorylation state (Tyr 216) that induces a proteasomal degradation of β-catenin. Indeed, a partial recovery of nuclear β-catenin expression and reduction of its phosphorylated form after treatment with LiCl were detected. As demonstrated by RT-PCR and cytofluorimetric analysis, TMA/BL also decreased the expression of CD44v6, a marker of cancer stem cells. Taken together, our data suggest that TMA photoactivated by BL may represent an interesting option for the photochemotherapy of noninvasive bladder carcinomas, since this treatment is able to inhibit key pathways for tumour growth and progression in the absence of genotoxic effects.
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16
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Cocetta V, Cadau J, Saponaro M, Giacomini I, Dall'Acqua S, Sut S, Catanzaro D, Orso G, Miolo G, Menilli L, Pagetta A, Ragazzi E, Montopoli M. Further assessment of Salvia haenkei as an innovative strategy to counteract skin photo-aging and restore the barrier integrity. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:89-103. [PMID: 33424011 PMCID: PMC7835004 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Skin is the essential barrier of the human body which performs multiple functions. Endogenous factors, in concert with external assaults, continuously affect skin integrity, leading to distinct structural changes that influence not only the skin appearance but also its various physiological functions. Alterations of the barrier functions lead to an increased risk of developing disease and side reactions, thus the importance of maintaining the integrity of the epidermal barrier and slowing down the skin aging process is evident. Salvia haenkei (SH) has been recently identified as a potential anti-senescence agent; its extract is able to decrease the level of senescent cells by affecting the IL1α release and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In this study, SH extract was tested on human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) exposed to stress factors related to premature aging of cells such as free radicals and ultraviolet B radiation. We confirmed that SH acts as scavenger of ROS and found its ability to restore the skin barrier integrity by reinforcing the cytoskeleton structure, sealing the tight junctions and increasing the migration rate of cells. Given these results, this work becomes relevant, identifying Salvia haenkei as a compound useful for anti-aging skin treatment in clinical performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Cocetta
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Jessica Cadau
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Miriam Saponaro
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padova 35121, Italy.,Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova 35128, Italy
| | - Isabella Giacomini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Stefano Dall'Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Stefania Sut
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Daniela Catanzaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Genny Orso
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Giorgia Miolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Andrea Pagetta
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Eugenio Ragazzi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Monica Montopoli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy.,Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padova 35121, Italy
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17
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Menilli L, García-Argáez AN, Dalla Via L, Miolo G. The neuroleptic drug fluphenazine induces a significant UVA-mediated cytotoxic effect on three human cancer cell lines through apoptosis. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2019; 18:2232-2239. [PMID: 30860541 DOI: 10.1039/c9pp00023b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The cytotoxic activity of fluphenazine (FPZ) in combination with UVA light was evaluated on three human tumor cell lines, HeLa, MSTO-211H and A431. The photobiological effect was determined following irradiation treatment in the presence of/or after the removal of incubated FPZ. Under both conditions, FPZ proved to be very effective in killing tumor cells, with GI50 values in the micromolar range. However, when FPZ was present during irradiation, the photocytotoxicity was at least two times higher than that after its removal suggesting the contribution of the drug both outside and inside the cells. The uptake of FPZ was very fast and, after only 15 minutes of incubation, the compound was accumulated inside lysosomes, as evidenced through fluorescence microscopy. FPZ distribution covered also the nucleus and the cytoplasm without significant plasma membrane association. After irradiation, the membrane of lysosomes in which FPZ was accumulated lost its integrity suggesting that the released lysosomal enzymes played an important role in cell death, and mitochondria were damaged as well, following apoptosis. Indeed, cytofluorimetric studies demonstrated that apoptosis was the main mechanism of cell death. Finally, an extremely high production of ROS was found, indicating a significant photodynamic mechanism involved in the photocytotoxic effect of FPZ. Taken together, our data show that FPZ following UVA irradiation behaves as an effective photoantiproliferative compound inducing apoptosis on various human tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Menilli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo, 5, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Aída Nelly García-Argáez
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo, 5, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Lisa Dalla Via
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo, 5, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Giorgia Miolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo, 5, 35131 Padova, Italy.
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18
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Miolo G, Stocchero G, Vogliardi S, Menilli L, Scrivano S, Montisci M, Favretto D. A Study on Photostability of Ethyl Glucuronide in Hair Irradiated under Artificial Sunlight. J Anal Toxicol 2019; 44:58-64. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bky098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Miolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giulia Stocchero
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Susanna Vogliardi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Salvatore Scrivano
- School of Specialization in Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Massimo Montisci
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Donata Favretto
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
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19
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Miolo G, Sturaro G, Cigolini G, Menilli L, Tasso A, Zago I, Conconi MT. Cover Image, Volume 51, Issue 2. Cell Prolif 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
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20
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Miolo G, Sturaro G, Cigolini G, Menilli L, Tasso A, Zago I, Conconi MT. 4,6,4'-trimethylangelicin shows high anti-proliferative activity on DU145 cells under both UVA and blue light. Cell Prolif 2018; 51:e12430. [PMID: 29318693 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Furocoumarins (psoralens and angelicins) have been already used under ultraviolet A light (UVA) for the treatment of skin diseases and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Besides their high anti-proliferative activity, some severe long-term side effects have been observed, for example genotoxicity and mutagenicity, likely strictly related to the formation of crosslinks. It has been demonstrated that blue light (BL) activation of 8-methoxypsoralen, an FDA-approved drug, leads to less mutagenic monoadducts in the DNA. So far, in this work the less toxic and more penetrating BL is proposed to activate 4,6,4'-trimethylangelicin (TMA), an already known UVA photoactivatable compound. MATERIALS AND METHODS Photocleavage, crosslink formation and oxidative damage were detected in pBR322 plasmid DNA treated with 300.0 μmol/L TMA activated with various exposures of BL. Anti-proliferative activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and activation status of some signalling pathways involved in cell growth and apoptosis were verified on DU145 cells treated with 5.0 μmol/L TMA plus 2.0 J/cm2 of BL. RESULTS Under BL-TMA, no mutagenic crosslinks, no photocleavage and neither photooxidative lesions were detected on isolated plasmid DNA. TMA showed high anti-proliferative activity on DU145 cells through induction of apoptosis. Besides ROS generation, the proapoptotic effect seemed to be related to activation of p38 and inhibition of p44/42 phosphorylation. Interestingly, the decrease in nuclear β-catenin was coupled with a significant dropping of CD44-positive cells. CONCLUSION Overall, our results indicate that TMA can be activated by BL and may be considered for targeted phototherapy of prostate cancer lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Miolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - G Sturaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - G Cigolini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - L Menilli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - A Tasso
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - I Zago
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - M T Conconi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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21
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Sturaro G, Cigolini G, Menilli L, Cola F, Di Liddo R, Tasso A, Conconi MT, Miolo G. Antiproliferative activity of 8-methoxypsoralen on DU145 prostate cancer cells under UVA and blue light. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2017; 16:1182-1193. [DOI: 10.1039/c7pp00116a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The use of photoactivatable 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) as potential focal treatment towards prostate cancer cells is proposed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Sturaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences
- University of Padova
- 35131 Padova
- Italy
| | - Giulia Cigolini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences
- University of Padova
- 35131 Padova
- Italy
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences
- University of Padova
- 35131 Padova
- Italy
| | - Fabio Cola
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences
- University of Padova
- 35131 Padova
- Italy
| | - Rosa Di Liddo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences
- University of Padova
- 35131 Padova
- Italy
| | - Alessia Tasso
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences
- University of Padova
- 35131 Padova
- Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Conconi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences
- University of Padova
- 35131 Padova
- Italy
| | - Giorgia Miolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences
- University of Padova
- 35131 Padova
- Italy
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