Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Yonggang Lv, Hongjun Wang, Gui Li, Boyuan Zhao
Summary: A study prepared 3D DECM scaffolds with suitable stiffness to mimic the tumor microenvironment of human breast tissue, exploring the impact of matrix stiffness on drug resistance in breast cancer cells.
BIOACTIVE MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jinwon Park, Jung Suk Kim, Geon Yang, Hobin Lee, Gayong Shim, Jaiwoo Lee, Yu Kyoung Oh
Summary: The researchers designed LOX-responsive nanoparticles to interact with the collagen matrix in the tumor microenvironment. In vitro experiments showed that these nanoparticles could bind to LOX-secreting CT26 cells, but this binding was blocked by a LOX inhibitor. In mouse experiments, the addition of the LOX inhibitor did not significantly change the antitumor efficacy of the nanoparticles. However, without the LOX inhibitor, a single administration of the nanoparticles provided sustained responsiveness to near-infrared irradiation and ablation of primary tumors.
JOURNAL OF CONTROLLED RELEASE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Maurice Retout, Bryan Gosselin, Amina Adrovic, Pascale Blond, Ivan Jabin, Gilles Bruylants
Summary: In this study, a thin and robust coating based on calixarene-diazonium salts was developed to maintain the anisotropic structure of silver nanoplates, resulting in increased lifetime and stability. This coated silver nanoplates were then used for the detection of rabbit immunoglobulin G and Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG, achieving a low limit of detection and successful detection in human plasma. Additionally, the wide range of colors provided by the silver nanoplates allowed for the design of a multicolor multiplex assay for simultaneous detection of multiple analytes.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Anita Senk, Valentin Djonov
Summary: Despite being well investigated, the exact role of collagen fibers in supporting angiogenesis remains unclear. This study shows that collagen fibers provide guidance cues for endothelial cell migration during regenerative angiogenesis, and impairments in collagen lead to severe vascular defects and hindered fin regeneration.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Wei Wang, Xiangjun Wang, Feng Yao, Chao Huang
Summary: The lysyl oxidase (LOX) family plays a crucial role in tumor microenvironment remodeling and is closely associated with tumor invasion, metastasis, and immunomodulation. The family may serve as an effective target for tumor therapy.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Gokhan Bahcecioglu, Xiaoshan Yue, Erin Howe, Ian Guldner, M. Sharon Stack, Harikrishna Nakshatri, Siyuan Zhang, Pinar Zorlutuna
Summary: The study reveals that aging ECM can drive normal mammary epithelial cells to a more invasive and cancer-like phenotype, and enhance motility and invasiveness in breast cancer cells. Different responses of cells to young and aged ECMs may lead to the identification of new targets for cancer treatment and prevention.
Article
Oncology
Guillermo A. Martinez-Nieto, Hanna-Riikka Teppo, Noora Petrelius, Valerio Izzi, Raman Devarajan, Tiina Petaisto, Hengshuo Liu, Kris S. Kim, Sanna-Maria Karppinen, Heli Ruotsalainen, Jarkko Koivunen, Joni M. Maki, Gilbert C. Walker, Taina Pihlajaniemi, Donald Gullberg, Ritva Heljasvaara
Summary: Integrin alpha 11 beta 1 is upregulated in human and mouse skin tumors, particularly in high-grade tumors. Deficiency of alpha 11 reduces tumor cell proliferation and tumor burden, but results in the presence of thick and regularly aligned collagen bundles in tumors. This study reveals the role of alpha 11 beta 1 in skin tumorigenesis and highlights the need for further research to understand its molecular mechanisms.
FRONTIERS IN ONCOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Carolina Anazco, Janin Riedelsberger, Lorenzo Vega-Montoto, Armando Rojas
Summary: Collagen is a vital structural protein in mammals and is strengthened by complex enzymatic and non-enzymatic reactions, such as covalent cross-linking and glycation. This review article explores the amine oxidase-like activity of plant polyphenols and their potential as antiglycation agents. It also discusses the molecular mechanisms by which specific flavonoids impact or protect the normal collagen cross-linking process, with the aim of promoting the stabilization of highly organized collagen fibrils.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Talita de S. Laurentino, Roseli da S. Soares, Antonio M. Lerario, Suely K. N. Marie, Sueli M. Oba-Shinjo
Summary: LOXL3, a member of the lysyl oxidase family, plays a role in collagen and elastin crosslinking. In tumors, high LOXL3 expression levels are associated with genomic stability and cell invasion. Silencing of LOXL3 in glioblastoma cells leads to decreased invasion potential and potential improvement in patient prognosis.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Dermatology
Aniqa Chowdhury, Nasim Nosoudi, Saketh Karamched, Vaideesh Parasaram, Naren Vyavahare
Summary: The combination of polyphenols with short exposure to UVA light can increase extracellular matrix deposition of elastin and collagen, potentially improving skin properties.
JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGICAL SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Yuta Yamamura, Norihiko Sakai, Yasunori Iwata, David Lagares, Akinori Hara, Shinji Kitajima, Tadashi Toyama, Taro Miyagawa, Hisayuki Ogura, Koichi Sato, Megumi Oshima, Shiori Nakagawa, Akira Tamai, Keisuke Horikoshi, Takahiro Matsuno, Naoki Yamamoto, Daiki Hayashi, Yoshitada Toyota, Daichi Kaikoi, Miho Shimizu, Andrew M. Tager, Takashi Wada
Summary: This study reveals the importance of the MRTF-SRF pathway in renal fibrosis by regulating the expression of extracellular matrix components and promoting myofibroblast differentiation. The findings suggest that targeting the MRTF-SRF pathway could be a potential therapeutic strategy for renal fibrosis.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Ning Xia, Daohong Wu, Haiqing Yu, Wanwan Sun, Xinyao Yi, Lin Liu
Summary: Based on boronate ester interaction, a simple and sensitive method for detecting circulating tumor cells was proposed, utilizing the overexpression of sugar units on the surface of captured cells to achieve rapid diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Yaser Peymanfar, Faranak Mahjour, Neha Shrestha, Ana de la Cueva, Ying Chen, Shengyuan Huang, Kathrin H. Kirsch, Xiaozhe Han, Philip C. Trackman
Summary: Oral cancer, primarily squamous-cell carcinoma with a 5-year survival rate of approximately 50%, is more common in humans carrying a polymorphism in the propeptide region of lysyl oxidase (LOX). Knockin mice carrying the same polymorphism are more susceptible to lesion development. The presence of wildtype LOX-PP in humans and mice has a tumor-inhibitory effect.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Yang Tai, Chong Zhao, Tian Lan, Linhao Zhang, Yang Xiao, Huan Tong, Rui Liu, Chengwei Tang, Jinhang Gao
Summary: Liver fibrosis results from the imbalance between ECM production and degradation, with many miRNAs being involved in its progression. This study identified specific miRNAs correlated with fibrosis reversal in a mouse model and provided potential candidate targets for liver fibrosis treatment. The integrated analysis of miRNA and mRNA expression profiles revealed significant differential expression and putative regulatory networks related to small molecule metabolism and ECM organization.
FRONTIERS IN GENETICS
(2021)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Lourdes Rivas, Arben Merkoci, Liming Hu, Claudio Parolo, Andrea Idili
Summary: The use of nanomaterials as colorimetric labels in point-of-care devices can enhance sensitivity. By optimizing the synthesis of gold and iridium oxide nanoflowers, researchers have achieved improved colorimetric signals and sensitivity, making them potential candidates for the next generation of optical lateral flow assays.
ACS APPLIED NANO MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Hyun Su Lee, Eun Young Jeon, Jae Jun Nam, Ji Hun Park, In Cheul Choi, Soo Hyun Kim, Justin J. Chung, Kangwon Lee, Jong Woong Park, Youngmee Jung
Summary: Peripheral nerve injury leads to loss of motor and sensory functions, increasing morbidity. Autogenous nerve grafts are the current gold standard for reconstruction, but have limitations due to limited donor supply. This study developed a PLCL/gelatin conduit as a promising alternative, demonstrating successful axonal regeneration and functional recovery. This research offers a potential substitute for autogenous nerve grafts.
ACTA BIOMATERIALIA
(2022)
Review
Oncology
Wan Su Yun, Ji-Ho Park, Dong-Kwon Lim, Cheol-Hee Ahn, In-Cheol Sun, Kwangmeyung Kim
Summary: Photothermal therapy (PTT) using nanoparticle-based photoabsorbers has shown good therapeutic efficiency. It induces photothermal damage in tumor tissues with minimal side effects and activates immune cells for systemic anti-cancer effect. This review investigates various nanoparticle-based PTT agents and their transition from thermotherapy to immunotherapy.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Jeongrae Kim, Yongwhan Choi, Suah Yang, Jaewan Lee, Jiwoong Choi, Yujeong Moon, Jinseong Kim, Nayeon Shim, Hanhee Cho, Man Kyu Shim, Sangmin Jeon, Dong-Kwon Lim, Hong Yeol Yoon, Kwangmeyung Kim
Summary: By using DOX as an ICD inducer and PLGA-based nanoparticles for controlled release, continuous ICD induction and reduced cell viability can be achieved. Direct injection of DP-NPs allows DOX to remain in the tumor site for 14 days and enhances antitumor immunity, with minimal toxicities.
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Hanhee Cho, Seong Ik Jeon, Cheol-Hee Ahn, Man Kyu Shim, Kwangmeyung Kim
Summary: Albumin has the potential to improve the delivery of anticancer drugs by acting as a natural carrier. It can enhance the circulation time of the drugs and passively target tumors through enhanced permeability and retention. However, the delivery efficiency of exogenous albumin formulations is low, which increases the risk of systemic toxicity. Prodrugs that bind endogenous albumin have been investigated as a safer and more effective drug delivery option.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Eun Young Jeon, Da-som Choi, Seunghyun Choi, Ju-young Won, Yunju Jo, Hye-bin Kim, Youngmee Jung, Sang Chul Shin, Hophil Min, Hae Woong Choi, Myeong Sup Lee, Yoon Park, Justin J. Chung, Hyung-seung Jin
Summary: This study developed a complex coacervate to deliver IL-2 in a sustained manner and enhance the activity of immune cells within tumors. The use of this coacervate allowed for localized delivery of IL-2 and protection against the acidic tumor microenvironment.
BIOENGINEERING & TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Wan Su Yun, Man Kyu Shim, Seungho Lim, Sukyung Song, Jinseong Kim, Suah Yang, Hee Sook Hwang, Mi Ra Kim, Hong Yeol Yoon, Dong-Kwon Lim, In-Cheol Sun, Kwangmeyung Kim
Summary: In this study, a promising approach of using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for the deep tumor delivery of gold nanorods (AuNRs) has been demonstrated. The AuNRs are modified and chemically conjugated to the MSCs, allowing deep tissue penetration and enhanced photothermal effect against colon tumor growth. This provides a potential method for effective photothermal therapy.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Hanhee Cho, Man Kyu Shim, Yujeong Moon, Sukyung Song, Jinseong Kim, Jiwoong Choi, Jeongrae Kim, Youngjoo Lee, Jung Yeon Park, Yongju Kim, Cheol-Hee Ahn, Mi Ra Kim, Hong Yeol Yoon, Kwangmeyung Kim
Summary: This study proposes tumor-specific monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) prodrug nanoparticles for safe and effective chemotherapy. The nanoparticles efficiently accumulate within tumor tissues and inhibit tumor cell growth by releasing MMAE. Meanwhile, these nanoparticles maintain a non-toxic inactive state in normal tissues, reducing the toxicity of MMAE.
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Jeongrae Kim, Yongwhan Choi, Dong-Hwee Kim, Hong Yeol Yoon, Kwangmeyung Kim
Summary: This review summarizes recent advances in the use of injectable hydrogels for combination immunotherapy in treating tumors. Injectable hydrogels, with their biocompatibility, degradability, and controllable properties, can effectively encapsulate various immunotherapeutic agents and elicit antitumor immune responses. The review also discusses the application of injectable hydrogels in chemoimmunotherapy, photoimmunotherapy, and radioimmunotherapy.
Article
Cell & Tissue Engineering
DoYeun Park, Donghak Kim, Su Jeong Park, Jeong Ho Choi, Yoojin Seo, Dong-Hwee Kim, Sang-Hoon Lee, Jung Keun Hyun, Jin Yoo, Youngmee Jung, Soo Hyun Kim
Summary: By combining micropattern-based fabrication method with stem-cell recruitment factor immobilization, a size-tunable nerve guidance conduit (NGC) with stem-cell recruitment capability was successfully developed, which enhances the guidance of nerve fiber regrowth and improves functional regeneration capacity. This method has wide applicability in improving the treatment of peripheral nerve injury and spinal cord injury.
NPJ REGENERATIVE MEDICINE
(2022)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Yujeong Moon, Seong Ik Jeon, Man Kyu Shim, Kwangmeyung Kim
Summary: Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are potential therapeutic strategy for cancer therapy, capable of inducing degradation of oncogenic proteins. They recruit E3 ligases and utilize the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway for specific catalysis. However, poor water solubility and low cell permeability limit their pharmacokinetic properties, hence requiring suitable delivery systems for cancer immunotherapy.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Andre-Rene Blaudszun, Woo Jun Kim, Wooram Um, Hong Yeol Yoon, Man Kyu Shim, Kwangmeyung Kim
Summary: This study proposes a combinational photodynamic and cancer immunotherapy using adoptive transfer of photosensitizer-loaded cytotoxic T cells. The loaded T cells efficiently produce reactive oxygen species under visible light irradiation and significantly inhibit tumor growth in a murine lymphoma model.
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Sang Jun Kim, Ji Eun Kim, Goeun Choe, Da Hyun Song, Sun Jeong Kim, Tae Hee Kim, Jin Yoo, Soo Hyun Kim, Youngmee Jung
Summary: In this study, the therapeutic effects of self-assembled peptide (SAP)-substance P (SP) complex on inflammation and cartilage regeneration in osteoarthritis (OA) were demonstrated using diverse animal models and in vitro studies. The SAP-SP complex showed anti-inflammatory action and increased cartilage regeneration by recruiting intrinsic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and inhibiting progression of OA. These effects were validated in rabbits, guinea pigs, and human synoviocytes. SAP-SP may be a promising injectable therapeutic agent for treating OA.
BIOMATERIALS RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Yejin Sung, Seung Taek Hong, Mihue Jang, Eun Sun Kim, Chansoo Kim, Youngmee Jung, Inchan Youn, Ick Chan Kwon, Seung-Woo Cho, Ju Hee Ryu
Summary: This article presents a new approach to predict the response to cetuximab therapy by evaluating the degree of EGFR internalization and degradation in colorectal cancer cells. They developed a fluorescent probe that can bind to EGFR and undergo fluorescence activation, enabling the measurement of EGFR degradation. The activated fluorescence showed a strong linear correlation with the cytotoxicity of cetuximab and had a higher predictive ability than current methods.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jinseong Kim, Hanhee Cho, Dong-Kwon Lim, Min Kyung Joo, Kwangmeyung Kim
Summary: The enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect of nanomedicine has been crucial in targeted cancer therapy. Understanding the EPR effect is important for efficient delivery of anticancer agents to targeted tumors. However, clinical translation of the EPR effect faces challenges due to tumor heterogeneity and complexity. Therefore, understanding the mechanism and overcoming limitations is essential for successful clinical translation of nanomedicine.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Wan Su Yun, Jeongrae Kim, Dong-Kwon Lim, Dong-Hwee Kim, Seong Ik Jeon, Kwangmeyung Kim
Summary: In the past 30 years, various nano-sized drug delivery systems (nanoDDSs) have been extensively studied for cancer therapy. They can passively target tumors and have enhanced permeability and retention effect. However, their systemic administration has led to complications such as insufficient tumor targeting, undesirable biodistribution, and carrier-associated toxicity. This review summarizes recent advancements in intratumoral nanoDDS administration, discussing factors that enhance therapeutic efficacy and the application in various cancer therapies. Intratumoral administration of nanoDDSs has shown versatility in enhancing tumor-specific accumulation and minimizing side effects, making it a potential solution to improve therapeutic effects and reduce toxicities.