Tratamento de câncer de mama utilizando terapia fotodinâmica com nonoemulsões de Ftalocianina de cloro alumínio

Dissertação (mestrado)—Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Pós-Graduação em Nanociência e Nanobiotecnologia, 2017.O câncer é caracterizado por um complexo de alterações que afetam a atividade molecular intracelular e também as comunicações entre as células e tecidos. Dentre todos os tipos de cânceres existentes, o câncer de mama representa 25% do total de neoplasias no mundo, com possibilidade de metástases. Ressalta-se que as terapias atuais, incluindo a cirurgia, a terapia hormonal, quimioterapia e terapia de radiação, são pouco seletivas para a eficácia no tratamento do câncer de mama primário e metastático. Portanto, são necessárias novas terapias que possam ser mais eficazes no tratamento deste tumor, de modo a destruir a propagação de metástases. Um dos tratamentos em ascensão é o uso da terapia fotodinâmica (TFD), a qual envolve três elementos fundamentais, sendo eles: um agente fotossensibilizante ou fotossensibilizador, uma fonte de luz específica e moléculas de oxigênio. Ademais, o uso de nanoestruturas associadas à TFD, tem proporcionado bons resultados aos tratamentos para o câncer, pois aumenta a eficiência dos fármacos, no caso os fotossensibilizadores, utilizados. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho, foi desenvolver um tratamento para o câncer de mama utilizando a terapia fotodinâmica, com uma nanopartícula contendo o fotossensibilizador cloreto de alumínio - ftalocianina, de forma a promover a mortalidade de células tumorais mamárias primárias e possíveis focos de metástases. Para tal, foram desenvolvidas e caracterizadas três nanoformulações, sendo elas: Nanoemulsão de Fatalocianina de Cloro-Alumínio (NE-ALCLFT), Nanoemulsão de Ftalocianina de Cloro-Alumínio com Ácido Fólico (NE-FO-ALCLFT) e Micela de Ácido Fólico (MIC-FO-ALCLFT). Para a caracterização, foram utilizadas as metodologias: análise de estabilidade, ZetaSizer, FT-IR, RAMAN, Microscopia eletrônica de Transmissão (MET) e de Varredura (MEV), análise por Espectrofluorímetro e o estudo da produção de espécies reativas de oxigênio (ROS). Posteriormente, foi realizado o estudo in vitro para avaliação da viabilidade celular e citotoxicidade, utilizando duas linhagens celulares, sendo uma de adenocarcinoma mamário (4T1) e outra de fibroblastos (NIH/3T3), pela avaliação do método colorimétrico MTT e análise morfológica das células pós-tratamentos por Microscopia de Fluorescência e contraste de fase. Nestes testes também foram avaliados a interferência da potência utilizada pelo LED para a aplicação da TFD, sendo testadas as potências 10mW/cm², 50mW/cm² e 100mW/cm². Por fim, foram realizados os testes in vivo e ex vivo, que incluem o estudo da biodistribuição das três nanoformulações pela via de administração endovenosa, por meio da avaliação de imageamento em tempo real no equipamento IVIS Lumina XR. Posteriormente ao estudo da biodistribuição, foi selecionada uma das nanoformulações (aquela que apresentou melhores resultados) para o tratamento do câncer de mama utilizando a TFD. Nesta última fase do trabalho, foram realizadas três formas de tratamento, sendo elas: sistêmica ( usando a administração do fármaco por via endovenosa e irradiação do LED também sistêmico (corpo todo do animal)), parcialmente sistêmica (com administração do fármaco por via endovenosa e irradiação apenas no local do tumor), e local (utilizando a administração do fármaco por via intratumoral e irradiação do LED também no local do tumor). Foram avaliados o peso dos camundongos, o volume tumoral, análises bioquímicas, hematológicas, análise por microtomografia computadorizada pelo equipamento PET/SPECT (avaliando o volume pulmonar e ósseo) e análise histopatológica. Os resultados apresentam todos os preparos das nanoformulações e suas respectivas caracterizações, sugerindo relevante estabilidade das nanopartículas. Os ensaios de viabilidade celular mostram que as nanoformulações apresentam citotoxicidade para ambas as linhagens celulares testadas, e que o uso apenas do LED (sem a presença dos nanoformulações) provocam o aumento da viabilidade celular na linhagem de fibroblastos. O ensaio de biodistribuição ressalta os principais órgãos atingidos pelas nanoformulações, sendo especialmente o fígado, baço e rins. Além disso, concluiu-se que a nanoformulação NE-ALCLFT, foi a que apresentou melhor biodistribuição para a região tumoral. Por fim, os tratamentos in vivo com o uso da TFD, apontam efeitos de necrose tumoral e infiltrados inflamatórios. Além disso, foi possível concluir que a melhor forma de tratamento, dentre as analisadas, foi utilizar a nanoformulação por administração endovenosa, e a irradiação do LED no local da região do tumor, onde apresentou 80% de eficiência do tratamento, com 4 camundongos apresentando todos tecidos normais (n=5). Portanto, com este trabalho, foi possível desenvolver um método eficiente para o tratamento do câncer de mama, utilizando a TFD com uma nanoemulsão de ftalocianina de cloro alumínio, por administração endovenosa.Cancer is characterized by a complex of alterations that affect intracellular molecular activity as well as communications between cells and tissues. Among all types of cancer, breast cancer represents 25% of the total number of neoplasms worldwide, with the possibility of metastases. It is noteworthy that current therapies, including surgery, hormone therapy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, are not completely selective for efficacy in the treatment of primary and metastatic breast cancer. Therefore, new therapies are needed that may be more effective in treating this tumor, in order to destroy the spread of metastases. One of the rising treatments is the use of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), which involves three fundamental elements: a photosensitizing or photosensitizing agent, a specific light source and oxygen molecules. In addition, the use of nanostructures associated with PDT has provided good results for cancer treatments, since it increases the efficiency of the drugs, in this case the photosensitizers, used. Thus, the objective of this work was to develop a treatment for breast cancer using photodynamic therapy with a nanoparticle containing the photosensitizer Chloro-Aluminum Phthalocyanine in order to promote the mortality of primary mammary tumor cells and possible foci of metastases . To that end, three nanoformulations were developed and characterized: Nanoemulsion of Fatalocyanine Chlorine-Aluminum (NE-ALCLFT), Folic Acid Chlorine-Aluminum Phthalocyanine Nanoemulsion (NE-FO-ALCLFT) and Folic Acid Micelle -FO-ALCLFT). For the characterization, the methodologies were used: stability analysis, ZetaSizer, FT-IR, RAMAN, Transmission Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Scanning (SEM), Spectrofluorimeter analysis and the study of the production of reactive oxygen species ). The in vitro study was carried out to evaluate cell viability and cytotoxicity, using two cell lines, one of the squamous cell carcinoma (4T1) and the other of fibroblasts (NIH / 3T3), by the evaluation of the MTT colorimetric method and the morphological analysis of the Post-treatment cells by Fluorescence Microscopy and phase contrast. These tests also evaluated the interference of the power used by the LED for the application of the PDT, being tested the powers 10mW / cm², 50mW / cm² and 100mW / cm². Finally, the in vivo and ex vivo tests were carried out, including the study of the biodistribution of the three nanoformulations through intravenous administration, by means of real time imaging evaluation in the Lumina XR IVIS equipment. After the biodistribution study, one of the nanoformulations (the one that presented the best results) was selected for the treatment of breast cancer using PDT. In this last phase of the study, three forms of treatment were performed: systemic (using intravenous drug administration and systemic LED irradiation (whole body of the animal)), partially systemic (with intravenous administration of the drug And irradiation only at the tumor site), and local (using intratumoral drug administration and LED irradiation also at the tumor site). The weight of the mice, tumor volume, biochemical and hematological analyzes, PET / SPECT (evaluating lung and bone volume) and histopathological analysis were analyzed by microtomography. The results show all the syntheses of the nanoformulations and their respective characterizations, suggesting the relevant stability of the nanoparticles. The cell viability assays show that the nanoformulations have cytotoxicity for both cell lines tested, and that the use of LEDs alone (without the presence of nanoformulations) provokes an increase in cell viability in the fibroblast lineage. The biodistribution test highlights the main organs affected by nanoformulations, especially the liver, spleen and kidneys. In addition, it was concluded that the NE-ALCLFT nanoformulation presented the best biodistribution to the tumor region. Finally, in vivo treatments with the use of PDT, point to effects of tumor necrosis and inflammatory infiltrates. In addition, it was possible to conclude that the best form of treatment, among those analyzed, was to use nanoformulation by intravenous administration, and LED irradiation at the site of the tumor region, where it presented 80% of treatment efficiency, with 4 mice presenting all normal tissues (n = 5). Therefore, with this work, it was possible to develop an efficient method for the treatment of breast cancer, using PDT with a chlorthal aluminum phthalocyanine nanoemulsion, by intravenous administration

Bat species composition associated with restinga lagoons from the Paulo César Vinha State Park, Espírito Santo, Brazil

Restingas are coastal ecosystems associated with the Atlantic Forest. They are threatened by habitat degradation and forest fragmentation due to intense human occupation. Many restingas have coastal lagoons formed by bay sedimentation of bays, the presence of river estuaries, or emerging groundwater. The distance between lagoons and the ocean influences the biotic community in them. This study aimed to compare the diversity (composition, abundance and richness) of bat communities associated with three lagoons within the Paulo Cesar Vinha State Park, Espírito Santo state. Two lagoons (‘Feia’ and ‘Vermelha’ lagoons) are 2 km away from the ocean, while the third (‘Caraís’ lagoon) is just a few meters distant from the ocean. Species composition did not differ among the lagoons. Abundance of Carollia perspicillata and Glossophaga soricina was higher in the ‘Caraís’ lagoon. Abundance of Artibeus lituratus and Platyrrhinus lineatus was higher in the ‘Vermelha’ lagoon. Species with higher abundance in the ‘Vermelha’ are usually associated with urban and disturbed environments. ‘Vermelha’ lagoon is closer to human settlements and this could be a major driver of bat species abundance associated with this lagoon instead of distance from the ocean. These results may be used to guide conservations efforts in the restingas or habitats associated with restingas

Methylene blue associated with maghemite nanoparticles has antitumor activity in breast and ovarian carcinoma cell lines

Background: Cancer constitutes group of diseases responsible for the second largest cause of global death, and it is currently considered one of the main public health concerns nowadays. Early diagnosis associated with the best choice of therapeutic strategy, is essential to achieve success in cancer treatment. In women, breast cancer is the second most common type, whereas ovarian cancer has the highest lethality when compared to other neoplasms of the female genital system. The present work, therefore, proposes the association of methylene blue with citrate-coated maghemite nanoparticles (MAGCIT–MB) as a nanocomplex for the treatment of breast and ovarian cancer. Results: In vitro studies showed that T-47D and A2780 cancer cell lines underwent a significant reduction in cell viability after treatment with MAGCIT–MB, an event not observed in non-tumor (HNTMC and HUVEC) cells and MDA-MB-231, a triple-negative breast cancer cell line. Flow cytometry experiments suggest that the main mechanism of endocytosis involved in the interiorization of MAGCIT–MB is the clathrin pathway, whereas both late apoptosis and necrosis are the main types of cell death caused by the nanocomplex. Scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy reveal significant changes in the cell morphology. Quantification of reactive oxygen species confirmed the MAGCIT–MB cytotoxic mechanism and its importance for the treatment of tumor cells. The lower cytotoxicity of individual solution of maghemite nanoparticles with citrate (MAGCIT) and free methylene blue (MB) shows that their association in the nanocomplex is responsible for its enhanced therapeutic potential in the treatment of breast and ovarian cancer in vitro. Conclusions: Treatment with MAGCIT–MB induces the death of cancer cells but not normal cells. These results highlight the importance of the maghemite core for drug delivery and for increasing methylene blue activity, aiming at the treatment of breast and ovarian cancer

Antineoplastics Encapsulated in Nanostructured Lipid Carriers

Ideally, antineoplastic treatment aims to selectively eradicate cancer cells without causing systemic toxicity. A great number of antineoplastic agents (AAs) are available nowadays, with well-defined therapeutic protocols. The poor bioavailability, non-selective action, high systemic toxicity, and lack of effectiveness of most AAs have stimulated the search for novel chemotherapy protocols, including technological approaches that provide drug delivery systems (DDS) for gold standard medicines. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) are DDS that contain a core of solid and lipid liquids stabilised by surfactants. NLC have high upload capacity for lipophilic drugs, such as the majority of AAs. These nanoparticles can be prepared with a diversity of biocompatible (synthetic or natural) lipid blends, administered by different routes and functionalised for targeting purposes. This review focused on the research carried out from 2000 to now, regarding NLC formulations for AAs (antimetabolites, antimitotics, alkylating agents, and antibiotics) encapsulation, with special emphasis on studies carried out in vivo. NLC systems for codelivery of AAs were also considered, as well as those for non-classical drugs and therapies (natural products and photosensitisers). NLC have emerged as powerful DDS to improve the bioavailability, targeting and efficacy of antineoplastics, while decreasing their toxic effect in the treatment of different types of cancer

Antineoplastics Encapsulated in Nanostructured Lipid Carriers

Ideally, antineoplastic treatment aims to selectively eradicate cancer cells without causing systemic toxicity. A great number of antineoplastic agents (AAs) are available nowadays, with well-defined therapeutic protocols. The poor bioavailability, non-selective action, high systemic toxicity, and lack of effectiveness of most AAs have stimulated the search for novel chemotherapy protocols, including technological approaches that provide drug delivery systems (DDS) for gold standard medicines. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) are DDS that contain a core of solid and lipid liquids stabilised by surfactants. NLC have high upload capacity for lipophilic drugs, such as the majority of AAs. These nanoparticles can be prepared with a diversity of biocompatible (synthetic or natural) lipid blends, administered by different routes and functionalised for targeting purposes. This review focused on the research carried out from 2000 to now, regarding NLC formulations for AAs (antimetabolites, antimitotics, alkylating agents, and antibiotics) encapsulation, with special emphasis on studies carried out in vivo. NLC systems for codelivery of AAs were also considered, as well as those for non-classical drugs and therapies (natural products and photosensitisers). NLC have emerged as powerful DDS to improve the bioavailability, targeting and efficacy of antineoplastics, while decreasing their toxic effect in the treatment of different types of cancer

Docetaxel Loaded in Copaiba Oil-Nanostructured Lipid Carriers as a Promising DDS for Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer is the neoplasia of highest incidence in women worldwide. Docetaxel (DTX), a taxoid used to treat breast cancer, is a BCS-class-IV compound (low oral bioavailability, solubility and intestinal permeability). Nanotechnological strategies can improve chemotherapy effectiveness by promoting sustained release and reducing systemic toxicity. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) encapsulate hydrophobic drugs in their blend-of-lipids matrix, and imperfections prevent drug expulsion during storage. This work describes the preparation, by design of experiments (23 factorial design) of a novel NLC formulation containing copaiba oil (CO) as a functional excipient. The optimized formulation (NLCDTX) showed approximately 100% DTX encapsulation efficiency and was characterized by different techniques (DLS, NTA, TEM/FE-SEM, DSC and XRD) and was stable for 12 months of storage, at 25 °C. Incorporation into the NLC prolonged drug release for 54 h, compared to commercial DTX (10 h). In vitro cytotoxicity tests revealed the antiproliferative effect of CO and NLCDTX, by reducing the cell viability of breast cancer (4T1/MCF-7) and healthy (NIH-3T3) cells more than commercial DTX. NLCDTX thus emerges as a promising drug delivery system of remarkable anticancer effect, (strengthened by CO) and sustained release that, in clinics, may decrease systemic toxicity at lower DTX doses

Docetaxel and Lidocaine Co-Loaded (NLC-in-Hydrogel) Hybrid System Designed for the Treatment of Melanoma

Melanoma is the most aggressive skin carcinoma and nanotechnology can bring new options for its pharmacological treatment. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) are ideal drug-delivery carriers for hydrophobic drugs, such as the antineoplastic docetaxel (DTX), and hybrid (NLC-in-hydrogel) systems are suitable for topical application. This work describes a formulation of NLCDTX in xanthan-chitosan hydrogel containing lidocaine (LDC) with anticancer and analgesia effects. The optimized nanoparticles encapsulated 96% DTX and rheological analysis revealed inherent viscoelastic properties of the hydrogel. In vitro assays over murine fibroblasts (NIH/3T3) and melanoma cells (B16-F10), human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and melanoma cells (SK-MEL-103) showed reduction of docetaxel cytotoxicity after encapsulation in NLCDTX and HGel-NLCDTX. Addition of LDC to the hybrid system (HGel-NLCDTX-LDC) increased cell death in tumor and normal cells. In vivo tests on C57BL/6J mice with B16-F10-induced melanoma indicated that LDC, NLCDTX, HGel-NLCDTX-LDC and NLCDTX + HGel-LDC significantly inhibited tumor growth while microPET/SPECT/CT data suggest better prognosis with the hybrid treatment. No adverse effects were observed in cell survival, weight/feed-consumption or serum biochemical markers (ALT, AST, creatinine, urea) of animals treated with NLCDTX or the hybrid system. These results confirm the adjuvant antitumor effect of lidocaine and endorse HGel-NLCDTX-LDC as a promising formulation for the topical treatment of melanoma

Nanographene oxide-methylene blue as phototherapies platform for breast tumor ablation and metastasis prevention in a syngeneic orthotopic murine model

Abstract Background In the photodynamic therapy (PDT), the photosensitizer absorbs light and transfers the energy of the excited state to the oxygen in the cell environment producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), that in its turn, may cause cell damage. In the photothermal therapy (PTT), light also is responsible for activating the photothermal agent, which converts the absorbed energy in heat. Graphene oxide is a carbon-based material that presents photothermal activity. Its physical properties allow the association with the photosensitizer methylene blue and consequently the production of ROS when submitted to light irradiation. Therefore, the association between nanographene oxide and methylene blue could represent a strategy to enhance therapeutic actions. In this work, we report the nanographene oxide-methylene blue platform (NanoGO-MB) used to promote tumor ablation in combination with photodynamic and photothermal therapies against a syngeneic orthotopic murine breast cancer model. Results In vitro, NanoGO-MB presented 50% of the reactive oxygen species production compared to the free MB after LED light irradiation, and a temperature increase of ~ 40 °C followed by laser irradiation. On cells, the ROS production by the nanoplatform displayed higher values in tumor than normal cells. In vivo assays demonstrated a synergistic effect obtained by the combined PDT/PTT therapies using NanoGO-MB, which promoted complete tumor ablation in 5/5 animals. Up to 30 days after the last treatment, there was no tumor regrowth compared with only PDT or PTT groups, which displayed tumoral bioluminescence 63-fold higher than the combined treatment group. Histological studies confirmed that the combined therapies were able to prevent tumor regrowth and liver, lung and spleen metastasis. In addition, low systemic toxicity was observed in pathologic examinations of liver, spleen, lungs, and kidneys. Conclusions The treatment with combined PDT/PTT therapies using NanoGO-MB induced more toxicity on breast carcinoma cells than on normal cells. In vivo, the combined therapies promoted complete tumor ablation and metastasis prevention while only PDT or PTT were unable to stop tumor development. The results show the potential of NanoGO-MB in combination with the phototherapies in the treatment of the breast cancer and metastasis prevention