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Targeted delivery of a plant-derived monoclonal antibody using pulsed electric fields in a 3D glioblastoma model

TitleTargeted delivery of a plant-derived monoclonal antibody using pulsed electric fields in a 3D glioblastoma model
Publication TypeArticolo su Rivista peer-reviewed
Year of Publication2026
AuthorsGiovannini, Daniela, Triggiani Doriana, Camera Francesca, Simonelli Flavia, Marusic Carla, Costantini Marco, Serafino Annalucia, Mancuso Mariateresa, Donini Marcello, and Merla Caterina
JournalBioelectrochemistry
Volume171
Pagination109318
Date Published2026 Oct
ISSN1878562X
KeywordsAntibodies, Monoclonal, Cell Line, Tumor, Drug Delivery Systems, Electricity, electroporation, Electroporation Therapies, glioblastoma, Humans, Spheroids, Cellular, tenascin
Abstract

Electroporation is a promising technique for enhancing the delivery of therapeutic agents by transiently increasing cell membrane permeability through high-amplitude (from hundreds of V/cm to tens of kV/cm), ultra-short pulsed electric fields (from ms to ns). This technique has shown potential not only for nucleic acid and small molecule delivery but also for the efficient modulation of tumor targets. In this study, we explore, for the first time, the combination of electroporation with an engineered monoclonal antibody targeting tenascin-C, a molecular hallmark of glioblastoma. Using a three-dimensional spheroid model of glioblastoma, we demonstrate that electroporation can enhance antibody binding to tenascin-C in the extracellular matrix, overcoming the structural barriers of the tumor microenvironment. Our results show that electroporation increases antibody access to tumor cells without significant cytotoxicity, highlighting its role as a potentiating tool for antibody-based therapies. Additionally, we utilize plant molecular farming to produce biologically active antibodies, offering a scalable and sustainable platform for large-scale production. This study provides a novel strategy for therapeutic delivery in solid tumors, such as glioblastoma, and offers novel possibilities for other types of cancer.

DOI10.1016/j.bioelechem.2026.109318
Alternate JournalBioelectrochemistry
Citation Key14295
PubMed ID42139809