Structural and functional optimization of glycoprotein-enzymes for targeted biocatalysis in oral squamous cell

Wenlu Li1, Hao Fu1, Hong Ma1

  • 1Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 45000, China.

Insights

Optimized glycoprotein enzymes show promise for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) therapy. This novel treatment effectively reduced tumor growth, induced apoptosis, and inhibited angiogenesis in preclinical models.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Biotechnology

Background:

  • Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains a significant global health challenge.
  • Novel therapeutic strategies are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
  • Glycoprotein enzymes represent a potential class of therapeutic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of optimized glycoprotein enzymes as a novel therapeutic approach for OSCC.
  • To characterize the stability and viability of OSCC cell lines (SCC-25 and HN4).
  • To assess the anti-cancer effects of glycoprotein enzymes in vitro and in vivo.

Main Methods:

  • Characterization of SCC-25 and HN4 cell lines' morphology and viability.
  • Expression and purification of recombinant glycoprotein enzymes.
  • In vitro assessment of enzyme activity and cytotoxicity against OSCC cells (IC50 determination).
  • In vivo evaluation using preclinical xenograft models, analyzing tumor volume, growth rate, and molecular markers (Ki-67, Bcl-2, cleaved caspase-3, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, CD31).

Main Results:

  • Glycoprotein-enzyme treatment significantly lowered OSCC cell viability with IC50 values of 10-15 µg/ml.
  • In vivo studies demonstrated a 40-50% reduction in tumor volume and growth rate.
  • Treated tumors showed increased apoptosis (decreased Ki-67, Bcl-2; increased cleaved caspase-3, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio) and reduced angiogenesis (decreased microvessel density).

Conclusions:

  • Optimized glycoprotein enzyme therapy effectively inhibits OSCC tumor growth.
  • The therapy induces apoptosis and reduces angiogenesis, key mechanisms in cancer treatment.
  • These findings provide a strong foundation for the clinical application of glycoprotein enzymes in OSCC therapy.

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