Citation
- Authors: Cho, C. F., Yu, L., Nsiama, T. K., Kadam, A. N., Raturi, A., Shukla, S., Amadei, G. A., Steinmetz, N. F., Luyt, L. G., Lewis, J. D.
- Year: 2017
- Journal: Nanoscale 9 12096-12109
- Applications: in vitro / DNA, siRNA / jetPRIME
- Cell types:
- Name: EA.hy926
Description: Human endothelial cells - Name: HT-1080
Description: Human acetabulum fibrosarcoma cells
Known as: HT1080
- Name: EA.hy926
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a dynamic process fundamental to the development of solid tumors. Epidermal growth factor-like domain 7 (EGFL7) is a protein whose expression is restricted to endothelial cells undergoing active remodeling that has emerged as a key mediator of this process. EGFL7 expression is associated with poor outcome in several cancers, making it a promising target for imaging or therapeutic strategies. Here, EGFL7 is explored as a molecular target for active neovascularization. Using a combinatorial peptide screening approach, we describe the discovery and characterization of a novel high affinity EGFL7-binding peptide, E7p72, that specifically targets human endothelial cells. Viral nanoparticles decorated with E7p72 peptides specifically target tumor-associated neovasculature with high specificity as assessed by intravital imaging. This work highlights the value of EGFL7 as a target for angiogenic vessels and opens the door for novel targeted therapeutic approaches.