PSMA-specific degradable dextran for multiplexed immunotargeted siRNA therapeutics against prostate cancer

Nanoscale. 2022 Oct 6;14(38):14014-14022. doi: 10.1039/d2nr02200a.

Abstract

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) is ideal for gene silencing through a sequence-specific RNA interference process. The redundancy and complexity of molecular pathways in cancer create a need for multiplexed targeting that can be achieved with multiplexed siRNA delivery. Here, we delivered multiplexed siRNA with a PSMA-targeted biocompatible dextran nanocarrier to downregulate CD46 and PD-L1 in PSMA expressing prostate cancer cells. The selected gene targets, PD-L1 and CD46, play important roles in the escape of cancer cells from immune surveillance. PSMA, abundantly expressed by prostate cancer cells, allowed the prostate cancer-specific delivery of the nanocarrier. The nanocarrier was modified with acid cleavable acetal bonds for a rapid release of siRNA. Cell imaging and flow cytometry studies confirmed the PSMA-specific delivery of CD46 and PD-L1 siRNA to high PSMA expressing PC-3 PIP cells. Immunoblot, qRT-PCR and flow cytometry methods confirmed the downregulation of CD46 and PD-L1 following treatment with multiplexed siRNA.

MeSH terms

  • Acetals
  • B7-H1 Antigen* / genetics
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Dextrans
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prostatic Neoplasms* / metabolism
  • RNA, Double-Stranded
  • RNA, Small Interfering / chemistry

Substances

  • Acetals
  • B7-H1 Antigen
  • Dextrans
  • RNA, Double-Stranded
  • RNA, Small Interfering