Multistage responsive microneedle delivery system loaded oncolytic virus for topical therapy of melanoma

Zhongjie Wang1, Zewei Yan2, Hanlin Chen1

  • 1School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.

Insights

This study introduces a microneedle system delivering oncolytic adenovirus and JQ1 to treat melanoma. The system enhances viral replication and boosts anti-tumor immunity, effectively reducing tumors in mice.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Virology
  • Immunology
  • Biomaterials Science

Background:

  • Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer with limited treatment options.
  • Oncolytic viruses (OVs) show promise but face challenges like poor delivery and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a novel microneedle system (MN-OJ) for enhanced melanoma treatment.
  • To improve oncolytic adenovirus (OA) delivery, replication, and efficacy.
  • To reprogram the TME and enhance systemic anti-tumor immunity.

Main Methods:

  • A multistage microneedle system (MN-OJ) was designed for sequential delivery of OA and JQ1.
  • The system utilizes dissolvable microneedles for rapid OA delivery and degradable tips for sustained JQ1 release.
  • Efficacy was evaluated in murine melanoma models, assessing tumor inhibition, viral replication, TME modulation, and systemic toxicity.

Main Results:

  • MN-OJ facilitated efficient OA delivery, leading to tumor cell lysis and antigen release.
  • Sustained JQ1 release enhanced OA replication and modulated the TME by reducing lactic acid and PD-L1 expression.
  • The treatment resulted in potent inhibition of primary and distal tumors with no observed systemic toxicity in murine models.

Conclusions:

  • The MN-OJ system effectively combines direct tumor destruction with immune modulation for melanoma therapy.
  • This innovative platform demonstrates significant potential for clinical application in melanoma treatment.
  • The study highlights the synergy between oncolytic virotherapy and targeted drug delivery for overcoming treatment resistance.

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