Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III)

A special issue of Pharmaceutics (ISSN 1999-4923). This special issue belongs to the section "Clinical Pharmaceutics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2024 | Viewed by 33785

Special Issue Editor

UNIPRO – Unidade de Investigação em Patologia e Reabilitação Oral, IUCS, CESPU, Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra PRD, Portugal
Interests: targeted anticancer therapy; targeting mitosis for cancer therapy; antimitotic agents; biological evaluation of natural and synthetic compounds; cancer biomarkers
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The clinical efficacy of the available cancer therapies has been impaired by serious side effects and drug resistance. Cancer incidence and mortality continue to increase rapidly worldwide. Therefore, the development and discovery of novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to overcome the drawbacks associated with the strategies in use in the clinic and to offer more effective therapeutic options. Novel cancer treatment strategies are being developed to selectively detect and eradicate malignant cells, with minimal damage to the healthy tissue, contrasted with conventional strategies.

In this Special Issue of Pharmaceutics, novel anticancer strategies with reduced toxicity and improved therapeutic indices, presented in original articles and comprehensive reviews highlighting the latest advances, are welcome. These strategies can suggest prospects for optimizing cancer therapies, hopefully with tremendous clinical value in the near future. Toward these aims, we encourage submissions that focus on the development and validation of novel anticancer approaches, which include but are not limited to ligand-/receptor-based targeting, controlled drug delivery, gene delivery, targeted anticancer prodrug and conjugate (photoactivatable caged prodrugs, ADEPT, ADAPT, ADCs), magnetic and ultrasound-mediated drug targeting, and cancer stem cell therapy that explores the targeting of signaling cascades and the tumor microenvironment.

Dr. Hassan Bousbaa
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • cancer therapy
  • drug delivery
  • drug carriers
  • targeted therapy
  • prodrugs (photoactivatable caged prodrugs, ADEPT, and ADAPT)
  • antibody drug conjugates (ADCs)
  • combined therapy
  • controlled drug release
  • immunotherapy
  • gene therapy (GDEPT)
  • stem cell therapy

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Published Papers (20 papers)

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21 pages, 9972 KiB  
Article
Effects of Lactate Transport Inhibition by AZD3965 in Muscle-Invasive Urothelial Bladder Cancer
by Ana Silva, Ana Félix, Mónica Cerqueira, Céline S. Gonçalves, Belém Sampaio-Marques, Adhemar Longatto-Filho, Fátima Baltazar and Julieta Afonso
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(12), 2688; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15122688 - 28 Nov 2023
Viewed by 871
Abstract
The Warburg Effect is characterized by high rates of glucose uptake and lactate production. Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) are crucial to avoid cellular acidosis by internal lactate accumulation, being largely overexpressed by cancer cells and associated with cancer aggressiveness. The MCT1-specific inhibitor AZD3965 has [...] Read more.
The Warburg Effect is characterized by high rates of glucose uptake and lactate production. Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) are crucial to avoid cellular acidosis by internal lactate accumulation, being largely overexpressed by cancer cells and associated with cancer aggressiveness. The MCT1-specific inhibitor AZD3965 has shown encouraging results in different cancer models. However, it has not been tested in urothelial bladder cancer (UBC), a neoplasm where rates of recurrence, progression and platinum-based resistance are generally elevated. We used two muscle-invasive UBC cell lines to study AZD3965 activity regarding lactate production, UBC cells’ viability and proliferation, cell cycle profile, and migration and invasion properties. An “in vivo” assay with the chick chorioallantoic membrane model was additionally performed, as well as the combination of the compound with cisplatin. AZD3965 demonstrated anticancer activity upon low levels of MCT4, while a general lack of sensitivity was observed under MCT4 high expression. Cell viability, proliferation and migration were reduced, cell cycle was arrested, and tumor growth “in vivo” was inhibited. The compound sensitized these MCT4-low-expressing cells to cisplatin. Thus, AZD3965 seems to display anticancer properties in UBC under a low MCT4-expression setting, but additional studies are necessary to confirm AZD3965 activity in this cancer model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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18 pages, 6963 KiB  
Article
RNAi-Mediated Knockdown of Cottontail Rabbit Papillomavirus Oncogenes Using Low-Toxicity Lipopolyplexes as a Paradigm to Treat Papillomavirus-Associated Cancers
by Uzma Ali, Michael Bette, Ghazala Ambreen, Shashank R. Pinnapireddy, Imran Tariq, André Marquardt, Boris A. Stuck, Udo Bakowsky and Robert Mandic
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(10), 2379; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15102379 - 25 Sep 2023
Viewed by 1156
Abstract
The cottontail rabbit papillomavirus (CRPV)-associated VX2 carcinoma of the New Zealand White rabbit serves as a model system for human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the tumor-inhibiting effect of RNAi-mediated knockdown [...] Read more.
The cottontail rabbit papillomavirus (CRPV)-associated VX2 carcinoma of the New Zealand White rabbit serves as a model system for human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the tumor-inhibiting effect of RNAi-mediated knockdown of the CRPV oncogenes, E6 and E7, using siRNA-loaded lipopolyplexes (LPPs). VX2-carcinoma-derived cells were cultured for up to 150 passages. In addition, CRPV E6 and E7 oncogenes were transiently expressed in COS-7 cells. Efficiency and safety of LPPs were evaluated in both VX2 cells and the COS-7 cell line. Both of these in vitro CRPV systems were validated and characterized by fluorescence microscopy, Western blot, and RT-qPCR. Efficient knockdown of CRPV E6 and E7 was achieved in VX2 cells and COS-7 cells pretransfected with CRPV E6 and E7 expression vectors. Knockdown of CRPV oncogenes in VX2 cells resulted in reduced viability, migration, and proliferation and led to a G0/G1 block in the cell cycle. CRPV E6 and E7 siRNA-loaded LPPs could represent promising therapeutic agents serving as a paradigm for the treatment of papillomavirus-positive cancers and could be of value for the treatment of CRPV-associated diseases in the rabbit such as papillomas and cancers of the skin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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15 pages, 4248 KiB  
Article
Improving Overall Survival and Quality of Life in Patients with Prostate Cancer and Neuroendocrine Tumors Using 177Lu-iPSMA and 177Lu-DOTATOC: Experience after 905 Treatment Doses
by Myrna Luna-Gutiérrez, Rodrigo Hernández-Ramírez, Airam Soto-Abundiz, Osvaldo García-Pérez, Alejandra Ancira-Cortez, Sergio López-Buenrostro, Brenda Gibbens-Bandala, Irma Soldevilla-Gallardo, Nancy Lara-Almazán, Melissa Rojas-Pérez, Blanca Ocampo-García, Erika Azorín-Vega, Clara Santos-Cuevas and Guillermina Ferro-Flores
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(7), 1988; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15071988 - 20 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1604
Abstract
177Lu-iPSMA is a novel radioligand developed at ININ-Mexico with a high affinity for the PSMA protein heavily expressed in cancer cells of approximately 95% of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). 177Lu-DOTATOC is a patent-free radioligand, molecularly recognized by somatostatin [...] Read more.
177Lu-iPSMA is a novel radioligand developed at ININ-Mexico with a high affinity for the PSMA protein heavily expressed in cancer cells of approximately 95% of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). 177Lu-DOTATOC is a patent-free radioligand, molecularly recognized by somatostatin receptors (SSTR-2) overexpressed in cancer cells of about 80% of patients with metastatic gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NET). This translational research aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of 177Lu-iPSMA and 177Lu-DOTATOC developed as GMP pharmaceutical formulations for treating progressive and advanced mCRPC and NET. One hundred and forty-five patients with mCRPC and one hundred and eighty-seven subjects with progressive NET (83% GEP-NET and 17% other NET), treated with 177Lu-iPSMA and 177Lu-DOTATOC, respectively, were evaluated. Patients received a mean dose of 7.4 GBq per administration of 177Lu-iPSMA (range 1–5 administrations; 394 treatment doses) or 177Lu-DOTATOC (range 2–8 administrations; 511 treatment doses) at intervals of 1.5–2.5 months. Efficacy was assessed by SPECT/CT or PET/CT. Results were stratified by primary tumor origin and number of doses administered. Patients with mCRPC showed overall survival (OS) of 21.7 months with decreased radiotracer tumor uptake (SUV) and PSA level in 80% and 73% of patients, respectively. In addition, a significant reduction in pain (numerical scale from 10–7 to 3–1) was observed in 88% of patients with bone metastases between one and two weeks after the second injection. In the GEP-NET population, the median progression-free survival was 34.7 months, with an OS of >44.2 months. The treatments were well tolerated. Only ten patients experienced grade ≥ 3 myelosuppression (3% of all patients). The observed safety profiles and favorable therapeutic responses demonstrated the potential of 177Lu-iPSMA and 177Lu-DOTATOC to improve overall survival and quality of life in patients with progressive and advanced mCRPC and NET. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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22 pages, 6315 KiB  
Article
Multifunctional Polymeric Biodegradable and Biocompatible Coatings Based on Silver Nanoparticles: A Comparative In Vitro Study on Their Cytotoxicity towards Cancer and Normal Cell Lines of Cytostatic Drugs versus Essential-Oil-Loaded Nanoparticles and on Their Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activities
by Rebecca Alexandra Puiu, Alexandra Cătălina Bîrcă, Valentina Grumezescu, Liviu Duta, Ovidiu Cristian Oprea, Alina Maria Holban, Ariana Hudiță, Bianca Gălățeanu, Paul Cătălin Balaure, Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu and Ecaterina Andronescu
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(7), 1882; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15071882 - 04 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1179
Abstract
We report on a comparative in vitro study of selective cytotoxicity against MCF7 tumor cells and normal VERO cells tested on silver-based nanocoatings synthesized by the matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) technique. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were loaded with five representative cytostatic drugs (i.e., [...] Read more.
We report on a comparative in vitro study of selective cytotoxicity against MCF7 tumor cells and normal VERO cells tested on silver-based nanocoatings synthesized by the matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) technique. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were loaded with five representative cytostatic drugs (i.e., doxorubicin, fludarabine, paclitaxel, gemcitabine, and carboplatin) and with five essential oils (EOs) (i.e., oregano, rosemary, ginger, basil, and thyme). The as-obtained coatings were characterized by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry coupled with differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier-transform IR spectroscopy, IR mapping, and scanning electron microscopy. A screening of the impact of the prepared nanocoatings on the MCF7 tumor and normal VERO cell lines was achieved by means of cell viability MTT and cytotoxicity LDH assays. While all nanocoatings loaded with antitumor drugs exhibited powerful cytotoxic activity against both the tumor and the normal cells, those embedded with AgNPs loaded with rosemary and thyme EOs showed remarkable and statistically significant selective cytotoxicity against the tested cancercells. The EO-loaded nanocoatings were tested for antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans. For all studied pathogens, the cell viability, assessed by counting the colony-forming units after 2 and 24 h, was significantly decreased by all EO-based nanocoatings, while the best antibiofilm activity was evidenced by the nanocoatings containing ginger and thyme EOs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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16 pages, 5151 KiB  
Article
Development of pH-Responsive Hyaluronic Acid-Conjugated Cyclodextrin Nanoparticles for Chemo-/CO-Gas Dual Therapy
by Eunsol Lee and Eun Seong Lee
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(7), 1818; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15071818 - 25 Jun 2023
Viewed by 1099
Abstract
In this study, we fabricated γ-cyclodextrin (γCD)-based nanoparticles (NPs) for dual antitumor therapy. First, γCD (the backbone biopolymer) was chemically conjugated with low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (HA; a tumoral CD44 receptor-targeting molecule) and 3-(diethylamino)propylamine (DEAP; a pH-responsive molecule), termed as γCD-(DEAP/HA). The obtained γCD-(DEAP/HA) [...] Read more.
In this study, we fabricated γ-cyclodextrin (γCD)-based nanoparticles (NPs) for dual antitumor therapy. First, γCD (the backbone biopolymer) was chemically conjugated with low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (HA; a tumoral CD44 receptor-targeting molecule) and 3-(diethylamino)propylamine (DEAP; a pH-responsive molecule), termed as γCD-(DEAP/HA). The obtained γCD-(DEAP/HA) self-assembled in aqueous solution, producing the γCD-(DEAP/HA) NPs. These NPs efficiently entrapped paclitaxel (PTX; an antitumor drug) and triiron dodecacarbonyl (FeCO; an endogenous cytotoxic gas molecule) via hydrophobic interactions between PTX and FeCO with the unprotonated DEAP molecules in γCD-(DEAP/HA) and a possible host–guest interaction in the γCD rings. The release of PTX and FeCO from the NPs resulted from particle destabilization at endosomal pH, probably owing to the protonation of DEAP in the NPs. In vitro studies using MCF-7 tumor cells demonstrated that these NPs were efficiently internalized by the cells expressing CD44 receptors and enhanced PTX/FeCO-mediated tumor cell apoptosis. Importantly, local light irradiation of FeCO stimulated the generation of cytotoxic CO, resulting in highly improved tumor cell death. We expect that these NPs have potential as dual-modal therapeutic candidates with enhanced antitumor activity in response to acidic pH and local light irradiation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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32 pages, 13058 KiB  
Article
New Ruthenium-Cyclopentadienyl Complexes Affect Colorectal Cancer Hallmarks Showing High Therapeutic Potential
by Ana Rita Brás, Pedro Fernandes, Tiago Moreira, Julia Morales-Sanfrutos, Eduard Sabidó, Alexandra M. M. Antunes, Andreia Valente and Ana Preto
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(6), 1731; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15061731 - 14 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1170
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most deadly cancers worldwide. Current therapeutic strategies have low success rates and several side effects. This relevant clinical problem requires the discovery of new and more effective therapeutic alternatives. Ruthenium drugs have arisen as one of the [...] Read more.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most deadly cancers worldwide. Current therapeutic strategies have low success rates and several side effects. This relevant clinical problem requires the discovery of new and more effective therapeutic alternatives. Ruthenium drugs have arisen as one of the most promising metallodrugs, due to their high selectivity to cancer cells. In this work we studied, for the first time, the anticancer properties and mechanisms of action of four lead Ru-cyclopentadienyl compounds, namely PMC79, PMC78, LCR134 and LCR220, in two CRC-derived cell lines (SW480 and RKO). Biological assays were performed on these CRC cell lines to evaluate cellular distribution, colony formation, cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis, and motility, as well as cytoskeleton and mitochondrial alterations. Our results show that all the compounds displayed high bioactivity and selectivity, as shown by low half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) against CRC cells. We observed that all the Ru compounds have different intracellular distributions. In addition, they inhibit to a high extent the proliferation of CRC cells by decreasing clonogenic ability and inducing cell cycle arrest. PMC79, LCR134, and LCR220 also induce apoptosis, increase the levels of reactive oxygen species, lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, induce actin cytoskeleton alterations, and inhibit cellular motility. A proteomic study revealed that these compounds cause modifications in several cellular proteins associated with the phenotypic alterations observed. Overall, we demonstrate that Ru compounds, especially PMC79 and LCR220, display promising anticancer activity in CRC cells with a high potential to be used as new metallodrugs for CRC therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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20 pages, 5288 KiB  
Article
System Analysis Based on Lipid-Metabolism-Related Genes Identifies AGT as a Novel Therapy Target for Gastric Cancer with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
by Le Zhu, Ming Ma, Lumin Zhang, Shun Wang, Yu Guo, Xinxin Ling, Hanchao Lin, Nannan Lai, Shengli Lin, Ling Du and Qiongzhu Dong
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(3), 810; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15030810 - 02 Mar 2023
Viewed by 1547
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and chemotherapy is still a standard strategy for treating patients with advanced GC. Lipid metabolism has been reported to play an important role in the carcinogenesis and development of [...] Read more.
Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and chemotherapy is still a standard strategy for treating patients with advanced GC. Lipid metabolism has been reported to play an important role in the carcinogenesis and development of GC. However, the potential values of lipid-metabolism-related genes (LMRGs) concerning prognostic value and the prediction of chemotherapy responsiveness in GC remains unclear. A total of 714 stomach adenocarcinoma patients were enrolled from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Using univariate Cox and LASSO regression analyses, we developed a risk signature based on LMRGs that can distinguish high-GC-risk patients from low-risk patients with significant differences in overall survival. We further validated this signature prognostic value using the GEO database. The R package “pRRophetic” was applied to calculate the sensitivity of each sample from high- and low-risk groups to chemotherapy drugs. The expression of two LMRGs, AGT and ENPP7, can predict the prognosis and response to chemotherapy in GC. Furthermore, AGT significantly promoted GC growth and migration, and the downregulation of AGT enhanced the chemotherapy response of GC both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, AGT induced significant levels of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) through the PI3K/AKT pathway. The PI3K/AKT pathway agonist 740 Y-P can restore the EMT of GC cells impaired by AGT knockdown and treatment with 5-fluorouracil. Our findings suggest that AGT plays a key role in the development of GC, and targeting AGT may help to improve the chemotherapy response of GC patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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16 pages, 3569 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Photodynamic Treatment Modality for A375 Melanoma Cell Line Using a Sulphonated Aluminum Phthalocyanine Chloride-Photosensitizer-Gold Nanoparticle Conjugate
by Bridgette Mkhobongo, Rahul Chandran and Heidi Abrahamse
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(11), 2474; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14112474 - 16 Nov 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1649
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma cancer stem cells are subpopulations that have been identified and linked to tumor progression, immunoevasive behavior, drug resistance, and metastasis, leading to a poor prognosis. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an approach to eradicate cancer through a photochemical process which directly generates [...] Read more.
Metastatic melanoma cancer stem cells are subpopulations that have been identified and linked to tumor progression, immunoevasive behavior, drug resistance, and metastasis, leading to a poor prognosis. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an approach to eradicate cancer through a photochemical process which directly generates reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study investigated the impact of PDT using an aluminum phthalocyanine gold nanoparticle (AlPcS4Cl-AuNP) conjugate for targeting melanoma stem cells. The isolated stem cells were irradiated at 673.2 nm with a radiant exposure of 5 J/cm2. Post-irradiation signs of cell death were determined using microscopy and biochemical assays. A possible enhanced effect of ROS in inducing cell death could be seen when AlPcS4Cl was conjugated to AuNPs. Nanoparticles as carriers promote the efficient cellular uptake of photosensitizers, enhancing organelle accumulation and the targeted therapy of cancerous cells. A biochemical assay revealed significant post-irradiation signs of cell death. The measurement of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content revealed a decrease in cell proliferation. The study suggested an approach directed at expanding the knowledge on PDT to improve cancer treatment. Understanding the cell death mechanism through which ROS influence cancer stem cells (CSCs) is, therefore, useful for improving PDT efficiency and preventing tumor recurrence and metastasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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19 pages, 4881 KiB  
Article
Photodynamic Therapy Efficacy of Novel Zinc Phthalocyanine Tetra Sodium 2-Mercaptoacetate Combined with Cannabidiol on Metastatic Melanoma
by Nkune Williams Nkune, Gauta Gold Matlou and Heidi Abrahamse
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(11), 2418; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14112418 - 09 Nov 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1477
Abstract
This work reports for the first time on the synthesis, characterization, and photodynamic therapy effect of a novel water-soluble zinc (II) 2(3), 9(10), 16(17), 23(24)-tetrakis-(sodium 2-mercaptoacetate) phthalocyanine (ZnPcTS41), on metastatic melanoma cells (A375) combined with cannabidiol (CBD). The ZnPcTS41 structure was confirmed using [...] Read more.
This work reports for the first time on the synthesis, characterization, and photodynamic therapy effect of a novel water-soluble zinc (II) 2(3), 9(10), 16(17), 23(24)-tetrakis-(sodium 2-mercaptoacetate) phthalocyanine (ZnPcTS41), on metastatic melanoma cells (A375) combined with cannabidiol (CBD). The ZnPcTS41 structure was confirmed using FTIR, NMR, MS, and elemental analysis while the electronic absorption spectrum was studied using UV-VIS. The study reports further on the dose-dependent effects of ZnPcTS41 (1–8 µM) and CBD alone (0.3–1.1 µM) at 636 nm with 10 J/cm2 on cellular morphology and viability. The IC50 concentrations of ZnPcTS41 and CBD were found to be 5.3 µM and 0.63 µM, respectively. The cytotoxicity effects of the ZnPcTS41 enhanced with CBD on A375 cells were assessed using MTT cell viability assay, ATP cellular proliferation and inverted light microscopy. Cell death induction was also determined via Annexin V-FITC-PI. The combination of CBD- and ZnPcTS41-mediated PDT resulted in a significant reduction in cell viability (15%***) and an increase in the late apoptotic cell population (25%*). These findings suggest that enhancing PDT with anticancer agents such as CBD could possibly obliterate cancer cells and inhibit tumor recurrence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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22 pages, 3422 KiB  
Article
Microbiota-Derived Short-Chain Fatty Acids: New Road in Colorectal Cancer Therapy
by Sara Gomes, Fátima Baltazar, Elisabete Silva and Ana Preto
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(11), 2359; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14112359 - 01 Nov 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1739
Abstract
The colon microbiota is an important player in colorectal cancer (CRC) development, which is responsible for most of the cancer-related deaths worldwide. During carcinogenesis, the colon microbiota composition changes from a normobiosis profile to dysbiosis, interfering with the production of short-chain fatty acids [...] Read more.
The colon microbiota is an important player in colorectal cancer (CRC) development, which is responsible for most of the cancer-related deaths worldwide. During carcinogenesis, the colon microbiota composition changes from a normobiosis profile to dysbiosis, interfering with the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Each SCFA is known to play a role in several biological processes but, despite their reported individual effects, colon cells are exposed to these compounds simultaneously and the combined effect of SCFAs in colon cells is still unknown. Our aim was to explore the effects of SCFAs, alone or in combination, unveiling their biological impact on CRC cell phenotypes. We used a mathematical model for the prediction of the expected SCFA mixture effects and found that, when in mixture, SCFAs exhibit a concentration addition behavior. All SCFAs, alone or combined at the physiological proportions founded in the human colon, revealed to have a selective and anticancer effect by inhibiting colony formation and cell proliferation, increasing apoptosis, disturbing the energetic metabolism, inducing lysosomal membrane permeabilization, and decreasing cytosolic pH. We showed for the first time that SCFAs are specific towards colon cancer cells, showing promising therapeutic effects. These findings open a new road for the development of alternatives for CRC therapy based on the increase in SCFA levels through the modulation of the colon microbiota composition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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Review

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20 pages, 4226 KiB  
Review
Natural Chalcones and Derivatives in Colon Cancer: Pre-Clinical Challenges and the Promise of Chalcone-Based Nanoparticles
by Soufyane Hba, Suzan Ghaddar, Hicham Wahnou, Aline Pinon, Riad El Kebbaj, Christelle Pouget, Vincent Sol, Bertrand Liagre, Mounia Oudghiri and Youness Limami
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(12), 2718; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15122718 - 01 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1012
Abstract
Colon cancer poses a complex and substantial global health challenge, necessitating innovative therapeutic approaches. Chalcones, a versatile class of compounds with diverse pharmacological properties, have emerged as promising candidates for addressing colon cancer. Their ability to modulate pivotal signaling pathways in the development [...] Read more.
Colon cancer poses a complex and substantial global health challenge, necessitating innovative therapeutic approaches. Chalcones, a versatile class of compounds with diverse pharmacological properties, have emerged as promising candidates for addressing colon cancer. Their ability to modulate pivotal signaling pathways in the development and progression of colon cancer makes them invaluable as targeted therapeutics. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize that although chalcones exhibit promise, further pre-clinical studies are required to validate their efficacy and safety. The journey toward effective colon cancer treatment is multifaceted, involving considerations such as optimizing the sequencing of therapeutic agents, comprehending the resistance mechanisms, and exploring combination therapies incorporating chalcones. Furthermore, the integration of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems presents a novel avenue for enhancing the effectiveness of chalcones in colon cancer treatment. This review delves into the mechanisms of action of natural chalcones and some derivatives. It highlights the challenges associated with their use in pre-clinical studies, while also underscoring the advantages of employing chalcone-based nanoparticles for the treatment of colon cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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19 pages, 2681 KiB  
Review
Unleashing the Power of Synthetic Lethality: Augmenting Treatment Efficacy through Synergistic Integration with Chemotherapy Drugs
by Yajing Du, Lulu Luo, Xinru Xu, Xinbing Yang, Xueni Yang, Shizheng Xiong, Jiafeng Yu, Tingming Liang and Li Guo
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(10), 2433; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15102433 - 08 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1151
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world, and chemotherapy is one of the main methods of cancer treatment. However, the resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic drugs has always been the main reason affecting the therapeutic effect. Synthetic lethality [...] Read more.
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world, and chemotherapy is one of the main methods of cancer treatment. However, the resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic drugs has always been the main reason affecting the therapeutic effect. Synthetic lethality has emerged as a promising approach to augment the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy agents. Synthetic lethality (SL) refers to the specific cell death resulting from the simultaneous mutation of two non-lethal genes, which individually allow cell survival. This comprehensive review explores the classification of SL, screening methods, and research advancements in SL inhibitors, including Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, Ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) inhibitors, WEE1 G2 checkpoint kinase (WEE1) inhibitors, and protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) inhibitors. Emphasizing their combined use with chemotherapy drugs, we aim to unveil more effective treatment strategies for cancer patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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21 pages, 4647 KiB  
Review
Smart Delivery Systems Responsive to Cathepsin B Activity for Cancer Treatment
by Vera S. Egorova, Ekaterina P. Kolesova, Manu Lopus, Neng Yan, Alessandro Parodi and Andrey A. Zamyatnin, Jr.
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(7), 1848; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15071848 - 29 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1651
Abstract
Cathepsin B is a lysosomal cysteine protease, contributing to vital cellular homeostatic processes including protein turnover, macroautophagy of damaged organelles, antigen presentation, and in the extracellular space, it takes part in tissue remodeling, prohormone processing, and activation. However, aberrant overexpression of cathepsin B [...] Read more.
Cathepsin B is a lysosomal cysteine protease, contributing to vital cellular homeostatic processes including protein turnover, macroautophagy of damaged organelles, antigen presentation, and in the extracellular space, it takes part in tissue remodeling, prohormone processing, and activation. However, aberrant overexpression of cathepsin B and its enzymatic activity is associated with different pathological conditions, including cancer. Cathepsin B overexpression in tumor tissues makes this enzyme an important target for smart delivery systems, responsive to the activity of this enzyme. The generation of technologies which therapeutic effect is activated as a result of cathepsin B cleavage provides an opportunity for tumor-targeted therapy and controlled drug release. In this review, we summarized different technologies designed to improve current cancer treatments responsive to the activity of this enzyme that were shown to play a key role in disease progression and response to the treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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18 pages, 1511 KiB  
Review
The Exploitation of Lysosomes in Cancer Therapy with Graphene-Based Nanomaterials
by Biljana Ristic, Mihajlo Bosnjak, Maja Misirkic Marjanovic, Danijela Stevanovic, Kristina Janjetovic and Ljubica Harhaji-Trajkovic
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(7), 1846; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15071846 - 28 Jun 2023
Viewed by 1365
Abstract
Graphene-based nanomaterials (GNMs), including graphene, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, and graphene quantum dots, may have direct anticancer activity or be used as nanocarriers for antitumor drugs. GNMs usually enter tumor cells by endocytosis and can accumulate in lysosomes. This accumulation prevents drugs [...] Read more.
Graphene-based nanomaterials (GNMs), including graphene, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, and graphene quantum dots, may have direct anticancer activity or be used as nanocarriers for antitumor drugs. GNMs usually enter tumor cells by endocytosis and can accumulate in lysosomes. This accumulation prevents drugs bound to GNMs from reaching their targets, suppressing their anticancer effects. A number of chemical modifications are made to GNMs to facilitate the separation of anticancer drugs from GNMs at low lysosomal pH and to enable the lysosomal escape of drugs. Lysosomal escape may be associated with oxidative stress, permeabilization of the unstable membrane of cancer cell lysosomes, release of lysosomal enzymes into the cytoplasm, and cell death. GNMs can prevent or stimulate tumor cell death by inducing protective autophagy or suppressing autolysosomal degradation, respectively. Furthermore, because GNMs prevent bound fluorescent agents from emitting light, their separation in lysosomes may enable tumor cell identification and therapy monitoring. In this review, we explain how the characteristics of the lysosomal microenvironment and the unique features of tumor cell lysosomes can be exploited for GNM-based cancer therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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17 pages, 3017 KiB  
Review
Shining a Light on Prostate Cancer: Photodynamic Therapy and Combination Approaches
by Hicham Wahnou, Ibtissam Youlyouz-Marfak, Bertrand Liagre, Vincent Sol, Mounia Oudghiri, Raphaël Emmanuel Duval and Youness Limami
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(6), 1767; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15061767 - 19 Jun 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2523
Abstract
Prostate cancer is a major health concern worldwide, and current treatments, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, are associated with significant side effects and limitations. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising alternative that has the potential to provide a minimally invasive and [...] Read more.
Prostate cancer is a major health concern worldwide, and current treatments, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, are associated with significant side effects and limitations. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising alternative that has the potential to provide a minimally invasive and highly targeted approach to treating prostate cancer. PDT involves the use of photosensitizers (PSs) that are activated by light to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can induce tumor cell death. There are two main types of PSs: synthetic and natural. Synthetic PSs are classified into four generations based on their structural and photophysical properties, while natural PSs are derived from plant and bacterial sources. Combining PDT with other therapies, such as photothermal therapy (PTT), photoimmunotherapy (PIT), and chemotherapy (CT), is also being explored as a way to improve its efficacy. This review provides an overview of conventional treatments for prostate cancer, the underlying principles of PDT, and the different types of PSs used in PDT as well as ongoing clinical studies. It also discusses the various forms of combination therapy being explored in the context of PDT for prostate cancer, as well as the challenges and opportunities associated with this approach. Overall, PDT has the potential to provide a more effective and less invasive treatment option for prostate cancer, and ongoing research is aimed at improving its selectivity and efficacy in clinical settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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52 pages, 2818 KiB  
Review
Combination Therapy as a Promising Way to Fight Oral Cancer
by João P. N. Silva, Bárbara Pinto, Luís Monteiro, Patrícia M. A. Silva and Hassan Bousbaa
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(6), 1653; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15061653 - 04 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1621
Abstract
Oral cancer is a highly aggressive tumor with invasive properties that can lead to metastasis and high mortality rates. Conventional treatment strategies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, alone or in combination, are associated with significant side effects. Currently, combination therapy has [...] Read more.
Oral cancer is a highly aggressive tumor with invasive properties that can lead to metastasis and high mortality rates. Conventional treatment strategies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, alone or in combination, are associated with significant side effects. Currently, combination therapy has become the standard practice for the treatment of locally advanced oral cancer, emerging as an effective approach in improving outcomes. In this review, we present an in-depth analysis of the current advancements in combination therapies for oral cancer. The review explores the current therapeutic options and highlights the limitations of monotherapy approaches. It then focuses on combinatorial approaches that target microtubules, as well as various signaling pathway components implicated in oral cancer progression, namely, DNA repair players, the epidermal growth factor receptor, cyclin-dependent kinases, epigenetic readers, and immune checkpoint proteins. The review discusses the rationale behind combining different agents and examines the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of these combinations, emphasizing their ability to enhance treatment response and overcome drug resistance. Challenges and limitations associated with combination therapy are discussed, including potential toxicity and the need for personalized treatment approaches. A future perspective is also provided to highlight the existing challenges and possible resolutions toward the clinical translation of current oral cancer therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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43 pages, 3157 KiB  
Review
Clinical Relevance of Targeted Therapy and Immune-Checkpoint Inhibition in Lung Cancer
by Gian Marco Leone, Saverio Candido, Alessandro Lavoro, Silvia Vivarelli, Giuseppe Gattuso, Daniela Calina, Massimo Libra and Luca Falzone
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(4), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15041252 - 16 Apr 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2189
Abstract
Lung cancer (LC) represents the second most diagnosed tumor and the malignancy with the highest mortality rate. In recent years, tremendous progress has been made in the treatment of this tumor thanks to the discovery, testing, and clinical approval of novel therapeutic approaches. [...] Read more.
Lung cancer (LC) represents the second most diagnosed tumor and the malignancy with the highest mortality rate. In recent years, tremendous progress has been made in the treatment of this tumor thanks to the discovery, testing, and clinical approval of novel therapeutic approaches. Firstly, targeted therapies aimed at inhibiting specific mutated tyrosine kinases or downstream factors were approved in clinical practice. Secondly, immunotherapy inducing the reactivation of the immune system to efficiently eliminate LC cells has been approved. This review describes in depth both current and ongoing clinical studies, which allowed the approval of targeted therapies and immune-checkpoint inhibitors as standard of care for LC. Moreover, the present advantages and pitfalls of new therapeutic approaches will be discussed. Finally, the acquired importance of human microbiota as a novel source of LC biomarkers, as well as therapeutic targets to improve the efficacy of available therapies, was analyzed. Therapy against LC is increasingly becoming holistic, taking into consideration not only the genetic landscape of the tumor, but also the immune background and other individual variables, such as patient-specific gut microbial composition. On these bases, in the future, the research milestones reached will allow clinicians to treat LC patients with tailored approaches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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24 pages, 1071 KiB  
Review
Highlighted Advances in Therapies for Difficult-To-Treat Brain Tumours Such as Glioblastoma
by Nuno Cruz, Manuel Herculano-Carvalho, Diogo Roque, Cláudia C. Faria, Rita Cascão, Hugo Alexandre Ferreira, Catarina Pinto Reis and Nuno Matela
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(3), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15030928 - 13 Mar 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2594
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remains a challenging disease, as it is the most common and deadly brain tumour in adults and has no curative solution and an overall short survival time. This incurability and short survival time means that, despite its rarity (average incidence [...] Read more.
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remains a challenging disease, as it is the most common and deadly brain tumour in adults and has no curative solution and an overall short survival time. This incurability and short survival time means that, despite its rarity (average incidence of 3.2 per 100,000 persons), there has been an increased effort to try to treat this disease. Standard of care in newly diagnosed glioblastoma is maximal tumour resection followed by initial concomitant radiotherapy and temozolomide (TMZ) and then further chemotherapy with TMZ. Imaging techniques are key not only to diagnose the extent of the affected tissue but also for surgery planning and even for intraoperative use. Eligible patients may combine TMZ with tumour treating fields (TTF) therapy, which delivers low-intensity and intermediate-frequency electric fields to arrest tumour growth. Nonetheless, the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and systemic side effects are obstacles to successful chemotherapy in GBM; thus, more targeted, custom therapies such as immunotherapy and nanotechnological drug delivery systems have been undergoing research with varying degrees of success. This review proposes an overview of the pathophysiology, possible treatments, and the most (not all) representative examples of the latest advancements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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16 pages, 428 KiB  
Review
In Silico Studies to Support Vaccine Development
by Leonor Saldanha, Ülo Langel and Nuno Vale
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(2), 654; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15020654 - 15 Feb 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1979
Abstract
The progress that has been made in computer science positioned in silico studies as an important and well-recognized methodology in the drug discovery and development process. It has numerous advantages in terms of costs and also plays a huge impact on the way [...] Read more.
The progress that has been made in computer science positioned in silico studies as an important and well-recognized methodology in the drug discovery and development process. It has numerous advantages in terms of costs and also plays a huge impact on the way the research is conducted since it can limit the use of animal models leading to more sustainable research. Currently, human trials are already being partly replaced by in silico trials. EMA and FDA are both endorsing these studies and have been providing webinars and guidance to support them. For instance, PBPK modeling studies are being used to gather data on drug interactions with other drugs and are also being used to support clinical and regulatory requirements for the pediatric population, pregnant women, and personalized medicine. This trend evokes the need to understand the role of in silico studies in vaccines, considering the importance that these products achieved during the pandemic and their promising hope in oncology. Vaccines are safer than other current oncology treatments. There is a huge variety of strategies for developing a cancer vaccine, and some of the points that should be considered when designing the vaccine technology are the following: delivery platforms (peptides, lipid-based carriers, polymers, dendritic cells, viral vectors, etc.), adjuvants (to boost and promote inflammation at the delivery site, facilitating immune cell recruitment and activation), choice of the targeted antigen, the timing of vaccination, the manipulation of the tumor environment, and the combination with other treatments that might cause additive or even synergistic anti-tumor effects. These and many other points should be put together to outline the best vaccine design. The aim of this article is to perform a review and comprehensive analysis of the role of in silico studies to support the development of and design of vaccines in the field of oncology and infectious diseases. The authors intend to perform a literature review of all the studies that have been conducted so far in preparing in silico models and methods to support the development of vaccines. From this point, it was possible to conclude that there are few in silico studies on vaccines. Despite this, an overview of how the existing work could support the design of vaccines is described. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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22 pages, 1701 KiB  
Review
Anticancer Applications of Essential Oils Formulated into Lipid-Based Delivery Nanosystems
by Josef Jampilek and Katarina Kralova
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(12), 2681; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14122681 - 01 Dec 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2104
Abstract
The use of natural compounds is becoming increasingly popular among patients, and there is a renewed interest among scientists in nature-based bioactive agents. Traditionally, herbal drugs can be taken directly in the form of teas/decoctions/infusions or as standardized extracts. However, the disadvantages of [...] Read more.
The use of natural compounds is becoming increasingly popular among patients, and there is a renewed interest among scientists in nature-based bioactive agents. Traditionally, herbal drugs can be taken directly in the form of teas/decoctions/infusions or as standardized extracts. However, the disadvantages of natural compounds, especially essential oils, are their instability, limited bioavailability, volatility, and often irritant/allergenic potential. However, these active substances can be stabilized by encapsulation and administered in the form of nanoparticles. This brief overview summarizes the latest results of the application of nanoemulsions, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers used as drug delivery systems of herbal essential oils or used directly for their individual secondary metabolites applicable in cancer therapy. Although the discussed bioactive agents are not typical compounds used as anticancer agents, after inclusion into the aforesaid formulations improving their stability and bioavailability and/or therapeutic profile, they indicated anti-tumor activity and became interesting agents with cancer treatment potential. In addition, co-encapsulation of essential oils with synthetic anticancer drugs into nanoformulations with the aim to achieve synergistic effect in chemotherapy is discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Anticancer Strategies (Volume III))
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