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To date, there are limited approaches for the direct and rapid visualization (on site) of tumor tissues for pathological assessment and for aiding cytoreductive surgery. Herein, we have designed FIT-PNAs (forced-intercalation-peptide nucleic acids) to detect two RNA cancer biomarkers. Firstly, a lncRNA (long noncoding RNA) termed CCAT1, has been shown as an oncogenic lncRNA over-expressed in a variety of cancers. The latter, an mRNA termed KRT20, has been shown to be over-expressed in metastases originating from colorectal cancer (CRC). To these FIT-PNAs, we have introduced the bis-quinoline (BisQ) cyanine dye that emits light in the red region (605–610 nm) of the visible spectrum. Most strikingly, spraying fresh human tissue taken from patients during cytoreductive surgery for peritoneal metastasis of colon cancer with an aqueous solution of CCAT1 FIT-PNA results in bright fluorescence in a matter of minutes. In fresh healthy tissue (from bariatric surgeries), no appreciable fluorescence is detected. In addition, a non-targeted FIT-PNA shows no fluorescent signal after spraying this FIT-PNA on fresh tumor tissue emphasizing the specificity of these molecular sensors. This study is the first to show on-site direct and immediate visualization of an RNA cancer biomarker on fresh human cancer tissues by topical application (spraying) of a molecular sensor.

Osteosarcoma (OS) is an aggressive malignancy affecting mostly children and adolescents. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in OS development and progression. Here we found that miR-16-1-3p and miR-16-2-3p "passenger" strands, as well as the "lead" miR-16-5p strand, are frequently downregulated and possess strong tumor suppressive functions in human OS. Furthermore, we report different although strongly overlapping functions for miR-16-1-3p and miR-16-2-3p in OS cells. Ectopic expression of these miRNAs affected primary tumor growth, metastasis seeding and chemoresistance and invasiveness of human OS cells. Loss-of-function experiments verified tumor suppressive functions of these miRNAs at endogenous levels of expression. Using RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays, we identify direct targets of miR-16-1-3p and miR-16-2-3p in OS cells. Moreover, validation experiments identified FGFR2 as a direct target for miR-16-1-3p and miR-16-2-3p. Overall, our findings underscore the importance of passenger strand miRNAs, at least some, in osteosarcomagenesis.

Cyclopentane modified FIT-PNA (cpFIT-PNA) probes are reported as highly emissive RNA sensors with the highest reported brightness for FIT-PNAs. Compared to FIT-PNAs, cpFIT-PNAs have improved mismatch discrimination for several pyrimidine-pyrimidine single nucleotide variants (SNVs).

The gene encoding the kinase Mnk2 (MKNK2) is alternatively spliced to produce two isoforms—Mnk2a and Mnk2b. We previously showed that Mnk2a is downregulated in several types of cancer and acts as a tumor suppressor by activation of the p38–MAPK stress pathway, inducing apoptosis. Moreover, Mnk2a overexpression suppressed Ras-induced transformation in culture and in vivo. In contrast, the Mnk2b isoform acts as a pro-oncogenic factor. In this study, we designed modified-RNA antisense oligonucleotides and screened for those that specifically induce a strong switch in alternative splicing of the MKNK2 gene (splice switching oligonucleotides or SSOs), elevating the tumor suppressive isoform Mnk2a at the expense of the pro-oncogenic isoform Mnk2b. Induction of Mnk2a by SSOs in glioblastoma cells activated the p38–MAPK pathway, inhibited the oncogenic properties of the cells, re-sensitized the cells to chemotherapy and inhibited glioblastoma development in vivo. Moreover, inhibition of p38–MAPK partially rescued glioblastoma cells suggesting that most of the anti-oncogenic activity of the SSO is mediated by activation of this pathway. These results suggest that manipulation of MKNK2 alternative splicing by SSOs is a novel approach to inhibit glioblastoma tumorigenesis.

Intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) in proteins are highly abundant, but they are still commonly viewed as long stretches of polar, solvent-accessible residues. Here we show that the disordered C-terminal domain (CTD) of HIV-1 Rev has two subregions that carry out two distinct complementary roles of regulating protein oligomerization and contributing to stability. We propose that this takes place through a delicate balance between charged and hydrophobic residues within the IDR. This means that mutations in this region, as well as the known mutations in the structured region of the protein, can affect protein function. We suggest that IDRs in proteins should be divided into subdomains similarly to structured regions, rather than being viewed as long flexible stretches.

Glioblastoma is an aggressive and invasive brain malignancy with high mortality rates despite current treatment modalities. In this study, we show that a 7-gene signature, previously found to govern the switch of glioblastomas from dormancy to aggressive tumor growth, correlates with improved overall survival of patients with glioblastoma. Using glioblastoma dormancy models, we validated the role of 2 genes from the signature, thrombospondin-1 ( TSP-1) and epidermal growth factor receptor ( EGFR), as regulators of glioblastoma dormancy and explored their therapeutic potential. EGFR up-regulation was reversed using EGFR small interfering RNA polyplex, antibody, or small-molecule inhibitor. The diminished function of TSP-1 was augmented via a peptidomimetic. The combination of EGFR inhibition and TSP-1 restoration led to enhanced therapeutic efficacy in vitro, in 3-dimensional patient-derived spheroids, and in a subcutaneous human glioblastoma model in vivo. Systemic administration of the combination therapy to mice bearing intracranial murine glioblastoma resulted in marginal therapeutic outcomes, probably due to brain delivery challenges, p53 mutation status, and the aggressive nature of the selected cell line. Nevertheless, this study provides a proof of concept for exploiting regulators of tumor dormancy for glioblastoma therapy. This therapeutic strategy can be exploited for future investigations using a variety of therapeutic entities that manipulate the expression of dormancy-associated genes in glioblastoma as well as in other cancer types.-Tiram, G., Ferber, S., Ofek, P., Eldar-Boock, A., Ben-Shushan, D., Yeini, E., Krivitsky, A., Blatt, R., Almog, N., Henkin, J., Amsalem, O., Yavin, E., Cohen, G., Lazarovici, P., Lee, J. S., Ruppin, E., Milyavsky, M., Grossman, R., Ram, Z., Calderón, M., Haag, R., Satchi-Fainaro, R. Reverting the molecular fingerprint of tumor dormancy as a therapeutic strategy for glioblastoma.

The forced-intercalation peptide nucleic acid (FIT-PNA) concept, introduced by Seitz and co-workers, is based on replacing a nucleobase of the PNA sequence with a cyanine dye (such as thiazole orange). The cyanine dye is thus a surrogate base that is forced to intercalate in the duplex (e.g., PNA:DNA). This allows single-mismatch sensitivity as the introduction of a mismatch in the vicinity of the dye increases freedom of motion and leads to a significant depletion of its fluorescence because of the free rotation of the monomethine bond separating the two π-systems of the cyanine dye. Herein, we designed and synthesized six FIT-PNA probes, featuring bisquinoline (BisQ), a red-emitting cyanine dye recently developed in our laboratory for FIT-PNAs. By following PNA–DNA duplex fluorescence, we found new sequence-based factors governing the fluorescence response to the mismatched FIT-PNA:DNA duplex. Fluorogenic properties are correlated with the π-stacking energy of three distinctive base pair steps (BPSs) in the PNA:DNA duplex. The first two are the two BPSs opposite BisQ, whereas the third is the BPS of the mismatch position, which presumably becomes unstacked due to the mismatch. We suggest a predictive model for FIT-PNA single-mismatch detection mechanism, a model that can be used in future research to improve FIT-PNA design.

Efficient delivery of nucleic acids into cells still remains a great challenge. Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are DNA analogues with a neutral backbone and are synthesized by solid phase peptide chemistry. This allows a straightforward synthetic route to introduce a linear short peptide (a.k.a. cell-penetrating peptide) to the PNA molecule as a means of facilitating cellular uptake of PNAs. Herein, we have devised a synthetic route in which a cyclic peptide is prepared on a solid support and is extended with the PNA molecule, where all syntheses are accomplished on the solid phase. This allows the conjugation of the cyclic peptide to the PNA molecule with the need of only one purification step after the cyclic peptide–PNA conjugate (C9–PNA) is cleaved from the solid support. The PNA sequence chosen is an antimiR-155 molecule that is complementary to mature miR-155, a well-established oncogenic miRNA. By labeling C9–PNA with fluorescein isothiocyanate, we observe efficient cellular uptake into glioblastoma cells (U87MG) at a low concentration (0.5 μM), as corroborated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis and confocal microscopy. FACS analysis also suggests an uptake mechanism that is energy-dependent. Finally, the antimiR activity of C9–PNA was shown by analyzing miR155 levels by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and by observing a reduction in cell viability and proliferation in U87MG cells, as corroborated by XTT and colony formation assays. Given the added biological stability of cyclic versus linear peptides, this synthetic approach may be a useful and straightforward approach to synthesize cyclic peptide–PNA conjugates.

Alternative splicing, a fundamental step in gene expression, is deregulated in many diseases. Splicing factors (SFs), which regulate this process, are up- or down regulated or mutated in several diseases including cancer. To date, there are no inhibitors that directly inhibit the activity of SFs. We designed decoy oligonucleotides, composed of several repeats of a RNA motif, which is recognized by a single SF. Here we show that decoy oligonucleotides targeting splicing factors RBFOX1/2, SRSF1 and PTBP1, can specifically bind to their respective SFs and inhibit their splicing and biological activities both in vitro and in vivo. These decoy oligonucleotides present an approach to specifically downregulate SF activity in conditions where SFs are either up-regulated or hyperactive., Alternative splicing, critical for gene expression, is deregulated in many diseases. Here the authors develop decoy oligonucleotides to specifically downregulate splicing factors activity.

Carboxylates and dicarboxylates are important phosphate mimics. Herein, we present a simple synthetic route for the preparation of RNA carboxylate/dicarboxylate conjugates, starting from suitably protected NH2- and COOH-containing molecules that are coupled to the RNA on the solid support. The key point in our method was the use of trimethylsilylethanol (TMSE-OH) protecting group, which is removed simultaneously with the silyl protecting group on the 2'-OH of the RNA ribose (e.g. t-Butyldimethylsilyl) during the final RNA cleavage/deprotection steps. The usefulness of this method was demonstrated by preparing different RNA-phosphate mimics oligos.

To improve visualization of malignant regions in the colon epithelium during diagnostic procedures, we have recently suggested a multimodal system comprising the water-soluble cationized polyacrylamide, tagged with the near infrared dye derivative IR-783-S-Ph-COOH [fluorescent-cationized polyacrylamide (Flu-CPAA)] and conjugated to the recognition peptide VRPMPLQ to form Flu-CPAA-Pep. The fluorescent-cationized polyacrylamide-peptide conjugate (Flu-CPAA-Pep) is then incorporated into echogenic microbubbles (MBs) made of polylactic acid (PLA) to protect it from pre-mature interactions with plasma proteins upon intravenous administration. It is expected that under directed ultrasound interrogation the Flu-CPAA-Pep cargo would be released in the region of interest, as a result of the MBs rupture into submicron PLA fragments (SPF). Due to their nanoscale dimension, the SPF will escape from the vasculature and allow a specific binding of the Flu-CPAA-Pep to the suspected malignant tissue. The complex nature of the system requires a multifaceted statistically based experimental design. Here we apply a design of experiment methodology to enable effective screening of key parameters in our experimental setup. It enables the assessment of the role of the different formulation parameters by identifying statistically significant interactions as observed in vitro (cell lines) and in vivo (colon cancer-induced rat model). Particularly important was the identification of the interaction between the fraction (mol%) of the cationic monomer in the Flu-CPAA and (a) the presence of recognition peptide as assessed in the in vitro experiments and (b) the use of a presenting platform (whether MBs or SPF) as assessed in the in vivo experiments. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

To increase colonoscopy capability to discriminate benign from malignant polyps, we suggest combining two imaging approaches based on targeted polymeric platforms. Water-soluble cationized polyacrylamide (CPAA) was tagged with the near infrared (NIR) dye IR-783-S-Ph-COOH to form Flu–CPAA. The recognition peptide VRPMPLQ (reported to bind specifically to CRC tissues) was then conjugated with the Flu–CPAA to form Flu–CPAA–Pep which was then incorporated into echogenic microbubbles (MBs) made of polylactic acid (PLA) that are highly responsive to ultrasound. The ultimate design includes intravenous administration combined with local ultrasound and intra-colon inspection at the NIR range. In this proof of principle study PLA MBs were prepared by the double emulsion technique and loaded with several types of Flu–CPAA–Pep polymers. After insonation the submicron PLA fragments (SPF)-containing Flu–CPAA–Pep were examined in vitro for their ability to attach to colon cancer cells and in vivo (DMH induced rat model) for their ability to attach to colon malignant tissues and compared to the specific attachment of the free Flu–CPAA–Pep. The generation of SPF-containing Flu–CPAA–Pep resulted in a tissue attachment similar to that of the free, unloaded Flu–CPAA–Pep. The addition of VRPMPLQ to the polymeric backbone of the Flu–CPAA reduced cytotoxicity and improved the specific binding.

Efficient delivery of oligonucleotides still remains a challenge in the field of oligonucleotide based therapy. Peptide nucleic acid (PNA), a DNA analogue that is typically synthesized by solid phase peptide chemistry, has been conjugated to a variety of cell penetrating peptides (CPP) as a means of improving its cellular uptake. These CPPs typically deliver their cargoes into cells by an endosomal-dependent mechanism resulting in lower bioavailability of the cargo. Herein, we designed and synthesized PNA-peptide conjugates as splice switching oligonucleotides (SSO) targeting the Mnk2 gene, a therapeutic target in cancer. In humans, the MKNK2 gene, is alternatively spliced, generating isoforms with opposite biological activities: Mnk2a and Mnk2b. It was found that the Mnk2a isoform is down-regulated in breast, lung, brain, and colon tumors and is a tumor suppressor, whereas MnK2b is oncogenic. We have designed and synthesized PNAs that were conjugated to either of the following peptides: a nuclear localization sequence (NLS) or a cytosol localizing internalization peptide (CLIP6). CLIP6-PNA demonstrates effective cellular uptake and exclusively employs a nonendosomal mechanism to cross the cellular membranes of glioblastoma cells (U87). Simple incubation of PNA-peptide conjugates in human glioblastoma cells up-regulates the Mnk2a isoform leading to cancer cell death.

A large group of fluorescent hybridization probes, includes intercalating dyes for example thiazole orange (TO). Usually TO is coupled to nucleic acids post-synthetically which severely limits its use. Here, we have developed a phosphoramidite monomer, 10 , and prepared a 2′-OMe-RNA probe, labeled with 5-( trans - N -hexen-1-yl-)-TO-2′-deoxy-uridine nucleoside, dU TO , (Nucleoside bearing an Inter-Calating moiety, NIC), for selective mRNA detection. We investigated a series of 15-mer 2′-OMe-RNA probes, targeting the cyclin D1 mRNA, containing one or several dU TO at various positions. dU TO -2′-OMe-RNA exhibited up to 7-fold enhancement of TO emission intensity upon hybridization with the complementary RNA versus that of the oligomer alone. This NIC-probe was applied for the specific detection of a very small amount of a breast cancer marker, cyclin D1 mRNA, in total RNA extract from cancerous cells (250 ng/μl). Furthermore, this NIC-probe was found to be superior to our related NIF (Nucleoside with Intrinsic Fluorescence)-probe which could detect cyclin D1 mRNA target only at high concentrations (1840 ng/μl). Additionally, dU T can be used as a monomer in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, thus avoiding the need for post-synthetic modification of oligonucleotide probes. Hence, we propose dU TO oligonucleotides, as hybridization probes for the detection of specific RNA in homogeneous solutions and for the diagnosis of breast cancer.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) represents an unmet therapeutic challenge. PDA is addicted to the activity of the mutated KRAS oncogene which is considered so far an undruggable therapeutic target. We propose an approach to target KRAS effectively in patients using RNA interference. To meet this challenge, we have developed a local prolonged siRNA delivery system (Local Drug EluteR, LODER) shedding siRNA against the mutated KRAS (siG12D LODER). The siG12D LODER was assessed for its structural, release, and delivery properties in vitro and in vivo. The effect of the siG12D LODER on tumor growth was assessed in s.c. and orthotopic mouse models. KRAS silencing effect was further assessed on the KRAS downstream signaling pathway. The LODER-encapsulated siRNA was stable and active in vivo for 155 d. Treatment of PDA cells with siG12D LODER resulted in a significant decrease in KRAS levels, leading to inhibition of proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. In vivo, siG12D LODER impeded the growth of human pancreatic tumor cells and prolonged mouse survival. We report a reproducible and safe delivery platform based on a miniature biodegradable polymeric matrix, for the controlled and prolonged delivery of siRNA. This technology provides the following advantages: (i) siRNA is protected from degradation; (ii) the siRNA is slowly released locally within the tumor for prolonged periods; and (iii) the siG12D LODER elicits a therapeutic effect, thereby demonstrating that mutated KRAS is indeed a druggable target.

Rel proteins in bacteria synthesize the signal molecules (p)ppGpp that trigger the Stringent Response, responsible for bacterial survival. Inhibiting the activity of such enzymes prevents the Stringent Response, resulting in the inactivation of long-term bacterial survival strategies, leading to bacterial cell death. Herein, we describe a series of deoxyguanosine-based analogs of the Relacin molecule that inhibit in vitro the synthetic activity of Rel proteins from Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria, providing a deeper insight on the SAR for a better understanding of their potential interactions and inhibitory activity. Among the inhibitors evaluated, compound 2d was found to be more effective and potent than our previously reported Relacin.

Previously, we have described 5-((4-methoxy-phenyl)-trans-vinyl)-2'-deoxy-uridine, 6, as a fluorescent uridine analogue exhibiting a 3000-fold higher quantum yield (Φ 0.12) and maximum emission (478 nm) which is 170 nm red-shifted as compared to uridine. Here, we utilized 6 for preparation of labeled oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) probes based on MS2 and cyclin D1 (a known breast cancer mRNA marker) sequences. Cyclin D1-derived labeled-ssODN showed a 9.5-fold decrease of quantum yield upon duplex formation. On the basis of this finding, we developed the ds-NIF (nucleoside with intrinsic fluorescence)-probe methodology for detection of cyclin D1 mRNA, by which the fluorescent probe is released upon recognition of target mRNA by the relatively dark NIF-duplex-probe. Indeed, we successfully detected, a ss-deoxynucleic acid (DNA) variant of cyclin D1 mRNA using a dark NIF-labeled duplex-probe, and monitoring the recognition process by fluorescence spectroscopy and gel electrophoresis. Furthermore, we successfully detected cyclin D1 mRNA in RNA extracted from cancerous human cells, using ds-NIF methodology.

siRNA-based therapeutics possess great potential to treat a wide variety of genetic disorders. However, they suffer from low cellular uptake and short half-lives in blood circulation; issues that remain to be addressed. This work is, to the best of our knowledge, the first to report the production of solid nano-in-nanoparticles, termed double nano carriers (DNCs) by means of the innovative technology of nano spray drying. DNCs (with a median size of 580-770nm) were produced by spraying at low temperatures (50°C) to prevent damage to heat-sensitive biomacromolecules like siRNA. DNCs consisting of Poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) used as a wall material, encapsulating 20% human serum albumin primary nanoparticles (PNPs) loaded with siRNA, were obtained as a dry nanoparticulate powder with smooth spherical surfaces and a unique inner morphology. Incubation of pegylated or non-pegylated DNCs under sink conditions at 37°C, elicited a controlled release profile of the siRNA for up to 12 or 24h, respectively, with a minimal burst effect. Prolonged incubation of pegylated DNCs loaded with active siRNA (anti EGFR) in an A549 epithelial cell culture monolayer did not induce any apparent cytotoxicity. A slow degradation of the internalized DNCs by the cells was also observed resulting in the progressive release of the siRNA for up to 6days, as corroborated by laser confocal microscopy. The structural integrity and silencing activity of the double encapsulated siRNA were fully preserved, as demonstrated by HPLC, gel electrophoresis, and potent RNAi activity of siRNA extracted from DNCs. These results demonstrate the potential use of DNCs as a nano drug delivery system for systemic administration and controlled release of siRNA and potentially other sensitive bioactive macromolecules.

This manuscript represents a critical review of selected topics relating to the cellular interactions of platinum anticancer drugs. The intent is not to provide a comprehensive summary of all the work described in the literature but to raise questions and cast doubts about selected topics regarding the approaches taken towards trying to elucidate the event that happens in cancer cells that were exposed to platinum complexes. The experimental methods used to study the cellular interactions of platinum complexes are reviewed and the significance of the results obtained from such studies is discussed.

Detection of mRNA alterations is a promising approach for identifying biomarkers as means of differentiating benign from malignant lesions. By choosing the KRAS oncogene as a target gene, two types of molecular beacons (MBs) based on either phosphothioated DNA (PS-DNA-MB) or peptide nucleic acid (TO-PNA-MB, where TO = thiazole orange) were synthesized and compared in vitro and in vivo. Their specificity was examined in wild-type KRAS (HT29) or codon 12 point mutation (Panc-1, SW480) cells. Incubation of both beacons with total RNA extracted from the Panc-1 cell line (fully complementary sequence) showed a fluorescent signal for both beacons. Major differences were observed, however, for single mismatch mRNA transcripts in cell lines HT29 and SW480. PS-DNA-MB weakly discriminated such single mismatches in comparison to TO-PNA-MB, which was profoundly more sensitive. Cell transfection of TO-PNA-MB with the aid of PEI resulted in fluorescence in cells expressing the fully complementary RNA transcript (Panc-1) but undetectable fluorescence in cells expressing the K-ras mRNA that has a single mismatch to the designed TO-PNA-MB (HT29). A weaker fluorescent signal was also detected in SW480 cells; however, these cells express approximately one-fifth of the target mRNA of the designed TO-PNA-MB. In contrast, PS-DNA-MB showed no fluorescence in all cell lines tested post PEI transfection. Based on the fast hybridization kinetics and on the single mismatch discrimination found for TO-PNA-MB we believe that such molecular beacons are promising for in vivo real-time imaging of endogenous mRNA with single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) resolution.

Triphenyl phosphonium cations (TPPs) are delocalized lipophilic cations that accumulate in the mitochondria of cells. We have explore the effect of increasing the number of TPPs on delivery of a cell-impermeable pro-apoptotic peptide to intact cells.The pro-apoptotic peptide D-(KLAKLAK)(2) (KLA) was extended with 0-3 L-Lysines modified at their ε-amine with TPP. Peptides were studied in HeLa cells to determine their cytotoxic activity and cellular uptake.In HeLa cells, the increased cytotoxicity correlates with the number of TPPs; the peptide with 3 TPP molecules (3-KLA) exerts the highest cytotoxic activity. This FITC-labeled peptide is found to accumulate in intact HeLa cells, whereas peptides with 0-2 TPPs are not detected at the same peptide concentration. Mitochondria-dependent apoptosis of HeLa cells in the presence of 3-KLA was followed by propidium iodide, Annexin-V and DiOC fluorescence by FACS.A facile synthetic methodology has been presented for the delivery of a biologically active peptide into mitochondria of intact cells by attaching multiple TPP moieties to the peptide. This approach was shown to dramatically increase biological activity of the peptide as a pro-apoptotic agent.

Triplex-forming oligonucleotides have been explored in the last 3 decades as highly specific gene-modifying agents. Such agents have been showed to either upregulate or shut down gene expression in vitro, an outcome that depends on the specifically designed biological system. One interesting approach is to tether to the oligonucleotide a photoreactive moiety. After hybridization to the DNA target (typically single- or double-stranded DNA), a site-specific photoinduced reaction may take place at a timely manner. Further, as the light source may be focused at a certain area, one has control on the location at which the phototriggered DNA modification takes place. In this regard, the use of tissue-penetrating photons (typically 630-950 nm) would be most relevant for in vivo applications as photoactivation may lead to site-specific DNA modification at a specific tissue/organ. In this review we highlight the advances made in this field and discuss the hurdles that lay ahead for the realization of phototriggered triplex-forming oligonucleotides as a solid therapeutic approach.

The ability to cleave DNA with the aid of chemical nucleases has been a challenge in the scientific community, particularly in the absence of a redox active metal ion. Inspired by structural characterization of the active site found in Staphylococcal nuclease, we have designed a series of organic molecule comprising cyclic pentapeptides conjugated to a DNA intercalator (e.g., anthraquinone). The cyclic peptide is designed to cleave the phosphodiester backbone, whereas the intercalator is expected to improve binding affinity to the substrate (DNA). Our lead compound (1-AQ), composed of the cyclic peptide cyc-d-Lys-Gly-Arg-Ser-Arg conjugated to anthraquinone, degrades DNA into small fragments at physiologically relevant conditions (i.e., 37 degrees C, pH = 7.4). We find that 1-AQ is highly effective in degrading duplex DNA at micromolar concentrations as corroborated by agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Changing the DNA intercalator to acridine (1-Ac) renders the compound comparable in nuclease activity to 1-AQ. In comparison to control compounds (Lin-1 and 1) that lack either the cyclic scaffold or the DNA intercalator, our lead compound (1-AQ) is found to be significantly more active as a DNA chemical nuclease. We have studied the importance of the triad (Arg-Ser-Arg) as the designed module for DNA cleavage. Changing l-Ser to l-Glu (cyc-d-Lys-Gly-Arg-Glu-Arg, Glu-AQ) results in an inactive compound, whereas the cyclic peptide Gly-AQ (cyc-d-Lys-Gly-Arg-Gly-Arg, where glycine replaces l-serine) has similar DNA nuclease activity to 1-AQ. In addition, changing the stereochemistry from d-lysine to l-lysine results in a cyclic peptide (1-L-AQ) exerting weak DNA nuclease activity, highlighting the importance of the cyclic backbone conformation for efficient DNA nuclease activity. The addition of ROS scavengers does not reduce DNA nuclease activity; an observation that supports a hydrolytic cleavage mechanism. Finally, we have estimated the kinetics of DNA cleavage of a 15-mer duplex DNA substrate by compound 1-AQ. By monitoring DNA duplex degradation by following the change in absorbance (hyperchromicity) at various 1-AQ concentrations, we report a maximal k(obs) value (as an underestimation of k(max)) of 1.62 h(-1) at a 7.5-fold of 1-AQ. We have also compared the other two active peptide conjugates, namely, 1-Ac and Gly-AQ to that of 1-AQ. Both compounds exert similar nuclease activity to that of 1-AQ. To the best of our knowledge, this is the most active metal-free DNA nuclease reported to date that exerts its DNA nuclease activity at biologically relevant conditions.

A variety of diseases are related to mitochondrial dysfunction. Hence, the ability to transport drugs to mitochondria that are otherwise cell impermeable would be of great therapeutic potential. Triphenylphosphonium (TPP) cations have been shown to accumulate in mitochondria when attached to small molecules. Here we report on the consequence of increasing the number of TPP moieties that are covalently linked to a model hydrophilic peptide Hemagglutinin A (HA). By extending the HA peptide with l-lysine amino acids to which the TPP's are covalently linked through the epsilon-amine, we have systematically synthesized the HA peptide with 0-3 TPP's. All peptides were subsequently labeled with FITC at the N-terminus. Cellular uptake and mitochondrial localization of the HA-TPP conjugates in HeLa cells were profoundly augmented with increasing number of TPPs, suggesting that this approach is applicable for the delivery of peptides. Furthermore, confocal microscopy demonstrated that the peptides localize to mitochondria. Importantly, all peptide conjugates did not show apparent toxicity at concentrations that are several orders of magnitude higher than those used for HA peptide delivery.

Selective photoinduced modulation of DNA may provide a powerful therapeutic tool allowing spatial and temporal control of the photochemical reaction. We have explored the photoreactivity of peptide nucleic acid (PNA) conjugates that were conjugated to a highly potent photosensitizer, Rose Bengal (RB). In addition, a short PEGylated peptide (K-PEG8-K) was conjugated to the C-terminus of the PNA to improve its water solubility. A short irradiation (visible light) of PNA conjugates with a synthetic DNA resulted in highly efficient photomodulation of the DNA as evidenced by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). In addition, a PNA-RB conjugate replacing K-PEG8-K with four l-glutamic acids (E4) was found to be photoinactive. Irradiation of active PNA-RB conjugates with synthetic DNA in D20 augments the photoactivity; supporting the involvement of singlet oxygen. PAGE, HPLC, and MALDI-TOF analyses indicate that PNA-DNA photo-cross-linking is a significant pathway in the observed photoreactivity. Selective photo-cross-linking of such PNA-RB conjugates may be a novel approach to selective photodynamic therapy (sPDT) as such molecules would be sequence-specific, cell-permeable, and photoactivated in the visible region.

The virulence of Plasmodium falciparum, the causative agent of the deadliest form of human malaria, is attributed to its ability to evade human immunity through antigenic variation. These parasites alternate between expression of variable antigens, encoded by members of a multicopy gene family named var. Immune evasion through antigenic variation depends on tight regulation of var gene expression, ensuring that only a single var gene is expressed at a time while the rest of the family is maintained transcriptionally silent. Understanding how a single gene is chosen for activation is critical for understanding mutually exclusive expression but remains a mystery. Here, we show that antisense long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) initiating from var introns are associated with the single active var gene at the time in the cell cycle when the single var upstream promoter is active. We demonstrate that these antisense transcripts are incorporated into chromatin, and that expression of these antisense lncRNAs in trans triggers activation of a silent var gene in a sequence- and dose-dependent manner. On the other hand, interference with these lncRNAs using complement peptide nucleic acid molecules down-regulated the active var gene, erased the epigenetic memory, and induced expression switching. Altogether, our data provide evidence that these antisense lncRNAs play a key role in regulating var gene activation and mutually exclusive expression.

Irradiation of plasmid DNA in the presence of Ru(II)-2, a modified tris(2,2'-bipyridyl)Ru(II) complex, in which two hydroxamic acid groups are attached to one of the three bipyridyl ligands, results in total fragmentation of the DNA. The photo-chemical reaction products were analyzed by gel electrophoresis, which revealed complete fragmentation. Further evidence for the complete degradation of the DNA was obtained by imaging the pre- and post-treated plasmid DNA using atomic force microscopy (AFM). A mechanism for the reaction is proposed. It initially involves the photo-chemical generation of Ru(III) ions and superoxide radicals, as corroborated by absorbance difference spectroscopy and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Consequently, Ru(III) preferentially oxidizes guanine, liberating superoxide radicals that yield OH radicals. The OH radicals were identified by observing the spectral change at 532 nm of a 5'-dAdG substrate forming a colored adduct with thiobarbituric acid. These radicals are associated with the major non-specific damage exerted to DNA.

Ruthenium complexes with three bipyridyl ligands, one of which is modified by attaching one or two hydroxamic acids groups (Ru-1 and Ru-2, respectively), were synthesized. Using EPR spectroscopy, we have found that photoexcitation leads to formation of nitroxyl radicals. The nitroxyl radical concentration in Ru-2 increased dramatically in the presence of spin traps DMPO (5,5‘-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide) and PBN (N-tert-butyl-α-phenylnitrone) characterized by strong affinity to superoxide radicals. We have attributed this behavior to the formation of a cage complex between Ru-2 and the superoxide radical. This paper concerns the study of cages formed between ruthenium complexes and molecular oxygen and the effect of functional groups attached to modified bipyridyl ligands on cage formation. The complex between Ru-2 and O_2 was formed in the ground state, probably with participation of the hydroxamic acid groups. The equilibrium constant of this complex was determined by EPR as K_(eq) ∼ 3 M^(-1). The formation of the Ru-2−O_2 complex is supported by the temperature-dependent rate of appearance of the EPR signal in the presence of PBN. Additional evidence comes from observation of paramagnetic shifts of the peaks in the 1H NMR spectrum of specific aromatic protons in the substituted bipyridyl ring upon exposure to O_2. Similar shifts were observed in the spectrum of Os-2, with osmium replacing ruthenium. Model compounds with functional groups that replace the hydroxamic acid or compounds without the metal center, but with the two hydroxamic acids, were synthesized. No shifts in the ^1H NMR spectra of these derivatives were observed in the presence of O_2. These results lead to the conclusion that both metal ions, Ru(II) or Os(II), and hydroxamic acid groups are essential components for the formation of the oxygen cage.

The design of Pt(IV) pro-drugs as anticancer agents is predicated on the assumption that they will not undergo substitution reactions before entering the cancer cell. Attempts to improve the cytotoxic properties of Pt(IV) pro-drugs included the use of haloacetato axial ligands. Herein, we demonstrate that Pt(IV) complexes with trifluoroacetato (TFA) or dichloroacetato (DCA) ligands can be unstable under biologically relevant conditions and readily undergo hydrolysis, which results in the loss of the axial TFA or DCA ligands. The half-lives for Pt(IV) complexes with two TFA or DCA ligands at pH 7 and 37 °C range from 6 to 800 min, which is short relative to the duration of cytotoxicity experiments that last 24-96 h. However, complexes with two monochloroacetato (MCA) or acetato axial ligands are stable under biologically relevant conditions. The loss of the axial ligands depends primarily on the electron-withdrawing strength of the axial ligands, but also upon the nature of the equatorial ligands. We were unable to find obvious correlations between the structures of the Pt(IV) complexes and the rates of decay of the parent compounds. The X-ray crystal structures of the bis-DCA and bis-MCA Pt(IV) derivatives of oxaliplatin did not reveal any significant structural differences that could explain the observed differences in stability.

Summary Objective 2-Ethyl-3-methylbutyl-carbamate (EMC) and 2-isopropylpentyl-carbamate (IPC) are among the most potent anticonvulsant carbamate derivatives of valproic acid. EMC and IPC are chiral compounds. Consequently, the aim of the current study was to comparatively evaluate the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD anticonvulsant activity) profile of EMC and IPC individual enantiomers. Methods The anticonvulsant activity of EMC and IPC individual enantiomers was evaluated in several anticonvulsant rodent models including maximal electroshock (MES), 6 Hz psychomotor, subcutaneous (pentylenetetrazole) (scMet), and the pilocarpine-induced and soman-induced status epilepticus (SE). The PK–PD relationship of EMC and IPC individual enantiomers was evaluated following intraperitoneal administration (50 mg/kg) to rats. Induction of neural tube defects (NTDs) was evaluated in a mouse strain that was highly susceptible to teratogen-induced NTDs. Results In mice and rats, (2S)-EMC exhibited anticonvulsant activity similar to that of racemic EMC in the MES and scMet tests, whereas in the 6 Hz test, racemic EMC was more potent than its two individual enantiomers. Racemic EMC exhibited a potent activity in the soman-induced SE model when administered 5 and 20 min after seizure onset with median effective dose (ED50) values of 33 and 48 mg/kg, respectively. (2R)-IPC and (2S)-IPC exhibited ED50 values similar to those of racemic IPC in the mouse and rat MES and scMet models. (2R)-IPC had similar ED50 values on the 6 Hz tests. Racemic IPC had an ED50 value of 107 mg/kg in the pilocarpine-induced SE model when given 30 min after seizure onset. Racemic EMC and IPC and their enantiomers had similar clearance (3.8–5.5 L/h/kg) and short half-life (

Although the function and mechanism of action of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) is still not completely known, studies have shown their potential role in the control of gene expression and regulation, in cellular proliferation and invasiveness at the transcriptional level via multiple mechanisms. Recently, colon cancer associated transcript 1 (CCAT1) lncRNA was found to be expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) tumors but not in normal tissue. This study aimed to study the ability of a CCAT1-specific peptide nucleic acid (PNA) based molecular beacons (TO-PNA-MB) to serve as a diagnostic probe for in vitro, ex vivo, and in situ (human colon biopsies) detection of CRC. The data showed enhanced fluorescence upon in vitro hybridization to RNA extracted from CCAT1 expressing cells (HT-29, SW-480) compared to control cells (SK-Mel-2). Uptake of TO-PNA-MBs into cells was achieved by covalently attaching cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) to the TO-PNA-MB probes. In situ hybridization of selected TO-PNA-MB in human CRC specimens was shown to detect CCAT1 expression in all (4/4) subjects with pre-cancerous adenomas, and in all (8/8) patients with invasive adenocarcinoma (penetrating the bowel wall) tumors. The results showed that CCAT1 TO-PNA-MB is a powerful diagnostic tool for the specific identification of CRC, suggesting that with the aid of an appropriate pharmaceutical vehicle, real time in vivo imaging is feasible. TO-PNA-MB may enable identifying occult metastatic disease during surgery, or differentiating in real time in vivo imaging, between benign and malignant lesions.

Fluorescent nucleoside analogs replacing natural DNA bases in an oligonucleotide have been widely used for the detection of genetic material. Previously, we have described 2-((4-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl) -trans -vinyl)-2′-deoxy-adenosine, 6 , a nucleoside analog with intrinsic fluorescence (NIF). Analog 6 exhibits a quantum yield 3115-fold higher than that of adenosine ( φ 0.81) and maximum emission which is 120 nm red shifted ( λ em 439 nm). Here, we incorporated this analog in one or several positions of cyclin D1-targeting 15-mer oligonucleotides (ONs). The fluorescence of 6 was quenched upon incorporation into an oligonucleotide (ca. 1.5–22 fold), and was further reduced upon duplex formation. Specifically, ON7 exhibited a fluorescence decrease of ca. 2- or 3-fold upon duplex formation with complementary DNA or RNA strand, respectively. We determined the kinetics of dehybridization/rehybridization process in the presence of ssDNA or ssRNA targets to optimize our probes length and established the probes' selectivity towards a specific target. Furthermore, we proved specificity of our probe to the target vs. singly mismatched targets. Our most promising ds-NIF-probe , ON7 :RNA, was used for the detection of cyclin D1 mRNA marker in cancerous cells total RNA extracts. The ds-probe specifically recognized the target as observed by a 2-fold fluorescence increase within 30 s at RT. These findings illustrate the potential of ds-NIF-probe s for the diagnosis of breast cancer.

One of the major concerns in treating malaria by conventional small drug molecules is the rapid emergence of drug resistance. Specific silencing of essential genes by antisense oliogomers has been proposed as an alternative approach that may result in antimalarial activity which is not associated with drug resistance. In addition, such an approach could be an important biological tool for studying many genes' function by reverse genetics. Here we present a novel methodology of using peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) as a useful tool for gene silencing in Plasmodium falciparum. PNAs, designed as specific antisense molecules, were conjugated to a cell penetrating peptide (CPP); namely, octa-D-lysine via the C-terminus, to allow facile delivery through cell membranes. PNAs added to P. falciparum cultures were found exclusively in infected erythrocytes and were eventually localized in nuclei of the parasites at all stages of intra erythrocytic development. We show that these PNAs specifically down regulated both a stably expressed transgene as well as an endogenous essential gene, which significantly reduced parasites' viability. This study paves the way for a simple approach to silence a variety of P. falciparum genes as means of deciphering their function and potentially to develop highly specific and potent antimalarial agents.

A novel ruthenium complex has been synthesized. It is composed of three bipyridyl ligands, one of which is modified and has two hydroxamate groups. Photoexcitation of the complex with blue light (λmax = 477 nm) leads to the formation of a long-lived nitroxyl radical on hydroxamate as was detected and characterized by ESR. In anaerobic conditions, the radical was not formed, suggesting that a reactive oxygen species is required for generating the nitroxyl radical. The quenching of the excited state of ruthenium bipyridyl complexes by molecular oxygen can generate either singlet oxygen via energy transfer or superoxide radical via electron transfer. In this latter case the superoxide radical is confined in a cage complex (vide infra). Singlet oxygen, generated via energy transfer from Ru(II) in its excited state, is the reactive species that is responsible for the oxidation of the hydroxamate group to its corresponding nitroxyl radical. This was confirmed by using a specific quencher (sodium azide) and by f...

Summary In Plasmodium falciparum , the deadliest form of human malaria, the nuclear periphery has drawn much attention due to its role as a sub-nuclear compartment involved in virulence gene expression. Recent data have implicated components of the nuclear envelope in regulating gene expression in several eukaryotes. Special attention has been given to nucleoporins that compose the nuclear pore complex (NPC). However, very little is known about components of the nuclear envelope in Plasmodium parasites. Here we characterize PfSec13, an unusual nucleoporin of P. falciparum , which shows unique structural similarities suggesting that it is a fusion between Sec13 and Nup145C of yeast. Using super resolution fluorescence microscopy (3D-SIM) and in vivo imaging, we show that the dynamic localization of PfSec13 during parasites9 intra-erythrocytic development corresponds with that of the NPCs and that these dynamics are associated with microtubules rather than with F-actin. In addition, PfSec13 does not co-localize with the heterochormatin markers HP1 and H3K9me3, suggesting euchromatic location of the NPCs. The proteins associated with PfSec13 indicate that this unusual Nup is involved in several cellular processes. Indeed, ultrastructural and chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses revealed that, in addition to the NPCs, PfSec13 is found in the nucleoplasm where it is associated with chromatin. Finally, we used peptide nucleic acids (PNA) to downregulate PfSec13 and show that it is essential for parasite proliferation in human erythrocytes.

Platinum-based drugs are very effective anticancer agents that are used routinely in the clinic, and nearly 50 % of all chemotherapeutic regimens administered to patients include a platinum drug. [1] Cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin are square planar d 8 Pt II complexes that trigger cancer cell death by binding to nuclear DNA, distorting its structure. [2] Owing to its reactivity and lack of selectivity most of the cisplatin administered reacts with nucleophiles in the blood, never reaching the tumor. These undesirable interactions limit the bioavailability of the drug and preclude oral administration. [3] One approach to overcome the drawbacks of cisplatin is to use Pt IV complexes as prodrugs. They are prepared by oxidatively adding two axial ligands to a Pt II drug. The design of these prodrugs is predicated on the assumption that the low spin octahedral d 6 Pt IV complexes are inert and will not undergo hydrolysis or ligand substitutions in the blood but will be activated in cells by reductive elimination, releasing the cytotoxic square-planar Pt II drugs (Scheme 1). [4] Yet it was reported that in some of the biotransformation products of ctc-[PtCl2(OAc)2(NH3)(c-hexylamine)] the chlorido ligands were replaced by OH while the axial OAc ligands remained intact. Negligible aquation (< 5 %) was observed for ctc[PtCl2(OAc)2(NH3)2] over 3–4 weeks. [5] Thus, the axial ligands can be used to impart favorable pharmacological properties to the drugs. Many reports describe the use of axial ligands to control the reduction potentials, lipophilicity, charge, selectivity, targeting, and cell uptake of the Pt IV complexes. [6]

Novel strategies that target the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have led to the clinical development of monoclonal antibodies, which treat metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) but only subgroups of patients with increased wild type KRAS and EGFR gene copy, respond to these agents. Furthermore, resistance to EGFR blockade inevitably occurred, making future therapy difficult. Novel bio-imaging (BOI) methods may assist in quantization of EGFR in mCRC tissue thus complementing the immunohistochemistry methodology, in guiding the future treatment of these patients. The aim of the present study was to explore the usefulness of near infrared-labeled EGF (EGF-NIR) for bio-imaging of CRC using in vitro and in vivo orthotopic tumor CRC models and ex vivo human CRC tissues. We describe the preparation and characterization of EGF-NIR and investigate binding, using BOI of a panel of CRC cell culture models resembling heterogeneity of human CRC tissues. EGF-NIR was specifically and selectively bound by EGFR expressing CRC cells, the intensity of EGF-NIR signal to background ratio (SBR) reflected EGFR levels, dose-response and time course imaging experiments provided optimal conditions for quantization of EGFR levels by BOI. EGF-NIR imaging of mice with HT-29 orthotopic CRC tumor indicated that EGF-NIR is more slowly cleared from the tumor and the highest SBR between tumor and normal adjacent tissue was achieved two days post-injection. Furthermore, images of dissected tissues demonstrated accumulation of EGF-NIR in the tumor and liver. EGF-NIR specifically and strongly labeled EGFR positive human CRC tissues while adjacent CRC tissue and EGFR negative tissues expressed weak NIR signals. This study emphasizes the use of EGF-NIR for preclinical studies. Combined with other methods, EGF-NIR could provide an additional bio-imaging specific tool in the standardization of measurements of EGFR expression in CRC tissues.

Real time detection of biomarkers at the mucosal level is imperative for the prevention and efficient treatment of colorectal cancer. Cationized polyacrylamide (CPAA) with increasing charge densities was prepared by radical polymerization of acrylamide and different mol% ratios of N -acryloyl, N ′-( tert -butyl-carbonyl) diaminoethane. The NIR fluorophore derivative of IR-783, IR-783-S-Ph-COOH, was attached to the CPAA to give CPAA-783. After selecting the optimal IR-783-S-Ph-COOH ratio that avoids quenching, the preferential binding of the polymer was tested in SW-620, SW-480, HT-29, and LS-174T cancer cells. The optimal polymeric product was tested in situ in gut sac preparations of the dimethylhydrazine induced rat model. To increase the detection capabilities of CPAA-783, the FITC-labeled peptide EPPT1, that targets the cell transmembrane underglycosylated MUC-1 (uMUC-1), was conjugated to the polymer to obtain CPAA-783-EPPT1. The dually labeled modified polymer was tested in HT-29 and LS-174T cells (over expressing uMUC-1), followed by an examination in an orthotopic mouse model. CPAA-783 preferentially bound to the cancer cells, depending on CRC staging. The best binding occurred when the fraction of the cationic monomer was 100 mol%, labeled with 0.75 mol% of IR-783-S-Ph-COOH. An increase in the recognition of the dually labeled polymeric product, CPAA-783-EPPT1, towards HT-29 and LS-174T cells occurred in the lowest EPPT1 molar ratio (0.63 mol%) only, probably due to quenching phenomena and steric hindrance. Similar observation was obtained in the orthotopic mice. It is concluded that fluorescently tagged CPAA can be used for the detection of malignant tissues in colorectal cancer after luminal instillation. Dually targeted CPAA with EPPT1is feasible, but requires further optimization.

Purpose: A real time detection of gastric cancer-associated biomarker molecules in the lumen of the stomach could assist in early detection of this multi-step malignancy. Methods: Employing 1-antitrypsin precursor (A1AT) as a secreted biomarker model, a platform with immunoassay capabilities, comprising sensing and detecting compartments was developed. It was made of a microarray-type functionalized glass, containing a high density of amine groups. Trypsin, the capturing moiety, was immobilized to the glass surface with the aid of a PEG-based spacer mixture, identified as being crucial for both capturing and detecting properties. The detecting compartment contained near infrared fluorescently labeled nanoparticles conjugated to A1AT-specific antibodies, aimed at generating an optical signal, detectable by a conventional endoscope or a video capsule. Results: The specific recognition reaction between the captured A1AT and the immuno-nanoparticles generated a profound flu orescence with a signal to noise ratio (SNR) of 12-32, in a biomarker-concentration dependent manner. Moreover, the optical recognition signal was intense enough to be detected by a video capsule simulator (with optical detection capabilities of a video capsule) with a SNR of 6-20. Conclusions: This platform could serve as a real time diagnostic kit for early detection of a secreted biomarker of gastric cancer.