RNAi-mediated gene knockdown and anti-angiogenic therapy of RCCs using a cyclic RGD-modified liposomal-siRNA system

Y Sakurai, H Hatakeyama, Y Sato, M Hyodo… - Journal of controlled …, 2014 - Elsevier
Y Sakurai, H Hatakeyama, Y Sato, M Hyodo, H Akita, N Ohga, K Hida, H Harashima
Journal of controlled release, 2014Elsevier
Angiogenesis is one of crucial processes associated with tumor growth and development,
and consequently a prime target for cancer therapy. Although tumor endothelial cells (TECs)
play a key role in pathological angiogenesis, investigating phenotypical changes in
neovessels when a gene expression in TEC is suppressed is a difficult task. Small
interfering RNA (siRNA) represents a potential agent due to its ability to silence a gene of
interest. We previously developed a system for in vivo siRNA delivery to cancer cells that …
Abstract
Angiogenesis is one of crucial processes associated with tumor growth and development, and consequently a prime target for cancer therapy. Although tumor endothelial cells (TECs) play a key role in pathological angiogenesis, investigating phenotypical changes in neovessels when a gene expression in TEC is suppressed is a difficult task. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) represents a potential agent due to its ability to silence a gene of interest. We previously developed a system for in vivo siRNA delivery to cancer cells that involves a liposomal-delivery system, a MEND that contains a unique pH-sensitive cationic lipid, YSK05 (YSK-MEND). In the present study, we report on the development of a system that permits the delivery of siRNA to TECs by combining the YSK-MEND and a ligand that is specific to TECs. Cyclo(Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys) (cRGD) is a well-known ligand to αVβ3 integrin, which is selectively expressed at high levels in TECs. We incorporated cRGD into the YSK-MEND (RGD-MEND) to achieve an efficient gene silencing in TECs. Quantitative RT-PCR and the 5′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends PCR indicated that the intravenous injection of RGD-MEND at a dose of 4.0 mg/kg induced a significant RNAi-mediated gene reduction in TEC but not in endothelial cells of other organs. Finally, we evaluated the therapeutic potency of the RGD-MEND encapsulating siRNA against vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2. A substantial delay in tumor growth was observed after three sequential RGD-MEND injections on alternate days. In conclusion, the RGD-MEND represents a new approach for the characterization of TECs and for us in anti-angiogenic therapy.
Elsevier