Preparation and Characterization of Nanoparticles Shelled with Chitosan for Oral Insulin Delivery

Nanoparticles (NPs) composed of chitosan (CS) and poly(gamma-glutamic acid) (gamma-PGA) were prepared by a simple ionic-gelation method for oral insulin delivery. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra indicated that CS and gamma-PGA were ionized at pH 2.5-6.6, while X-ray diffractograms demonstrated that the crystal structure of CS was disrupted after it was combined with gamma-PGA. The diameters of the prepared NPs were in the range of 110-150 nm with a negative or positive surface charge, depending on the relative concentrations of CS to gamma-PGA used. The NPs with a positive surface charge (or shelled with CS) could transiently open the tight junctions between Caco-2 cells and thus increased the paracellular permeability. After loading of insulin, the NPs remained spherical and the insulin release profiles were significantly affected by their stability in distinct pH environments. The in vivo results clearly indicated that the insulin-loaded NPs could effectively reduce the blood glucose level in a diabetic rat model.

Enhanced photocatalytic reduction reaction over Bi(3+)-TiO(2) nanoparticles in presence of formic acid as a hole scavenger

A series of Bi(3+)-doped TiO(2) (Bi(3+)-TiO(2)) catalysts with a doping concentration up to 2wt% were prepared by a sol-gel method. The prepared photocatalysts were characterized by different means to determine their chemical composition, surface structure and light absorption properties. The photocatalytic activity of different Bi(3+)-TiO(2) catalysts was evaluated in the photocatalytic reduction of nitrate in aqueous solution under UV illumination. In the experiments, formic acid was used as a hole scavenger to enhance the photocatalytic reduction reaction. The experiments demonstrated that nitrate was effectively degraded in aqueous Bi(3+)-TiO(2) suspension by more than 83% within 150min, while the pH of the solution increased from 3.19 to 5.83 due to the consumption of formic acid. The experimental results indicate that the presence of Bi(3+) in TiO(2) catalysts substantially enhances the photocatalytic reaction of nitrate reduction. It was found that the optimal dosage of 1.5wt% Bi(3+) in TiO(2) achieved the fastest reaction of nitrate reduction under the experimental condition. Bismuth ions deposit on the TiO(2) surface behaves as sites where electrons accumulate. Better separation of electrons and holes on the modified TiO(2) surface allows more efficient channeling of the charge carriers into useful reduction and oxidation reactions rather than recombination reactions. Two intermediate products of nitrite and ammonia during the reaction were also monitored to explore the possible mechanisms of photoluminescence quenching and photocatalytic reduction in the context of donor-acceptor interaction with electron trapping centers.

Optical switching of coupled plasmons of Ag-nanoparticles by photoisomerisation of an azobenzene ligand

The optical switching of coupled plasmons of silver nanoparticles derivatised with a photoisomerisable azobenzene ligand is presented. It is shown that nanoparticle clusters, linked with an azobenzene dithiol molecule, display switchable optical properties. The photoisomerisation of the linker molecule was used to vary the separation between nanoparticles, which was monitored by changes in the UV-Vis-spectra of the plasmon band of adjacent nanoparticles. A red-shift due to the appearance of a coupled longitudinal plasmon band was observed resulting from the formation of nanoparticle clusters. The maximum absorbance wavelength of this secondary plasmon band was altered by isomerisation of the linker and the spectral changes observed were in good agreement with theory and earlier measurements for gold. Evidence of energy transfer between a nanoparticle and an azobenzene terminated monothiol attached to it was also observed in the UV-Vis spectra.

Nanoparticles and cells: good companions and doomed partnerships

Engineered nanoparticles are emerging as useful tools for different purposes in life sciences, medicine and agriculture. Nanomedicine, an emerging discipline, involves the application of nanotechnology (usually regarded within the size range of 1-1000 nm) in the design of systems and devices that can facilitate our understanding of disease pathophysiology, nano-imaging, nanomedicines and nano-diagnostics. Among the different nanomaterials used to construct nanoparticles, are organic polymers, co-polymers and metals. Some of these materials can self assemble, and depending on the conditions under which the self-assembly process occurs, a vast array of shapes can be formed. Frequently, the nanoparticle morphology is spherical or tubular, mimicking the shape, but thus far, not the functions of subcellular organelles. We discuss here several representative nanoparticles, made of block copolymers and metals, highlighting some of their current uses, advantages and limitations in medicine. Nano-oncology and nano-neurosciences will also be discussed in more detail in the context of the intracellular fate of nanoparticles and possible long-term consequences on cell functions.

Semiconductor and ceramic nanoparticle films deposited by chemical bath deposition

Chemical bath deposition (CBD) has been used to deposit films of metal sulfides, selenides and oxides, together with some miscellaneous compounds, beginning nearly 140 years ago. While it is a well-known technique in a few specific areas (notably photoconductive lead salt detectors, photoelectrodes and more recently, thin film solar cells), it is by and large an under-appreciated technique. The more recent interest in all things 'nano' has provided a boost for CBD: since it is a low temperature, solution (almost always aqueous) technique, crystal size is often very small. This is evidenced by the existence of size quantization commonly found in CBD semiconductor films. The intention of this review is to provide readers, many of whom may not even be aware of the CBD technique, with an overview of how the technique has been used to fabricate nanocrystalline semiconductor (this terminology also includes oxides often classified as ceramics) films and some properties of these films. The review begins, after a short introduction, with a general description of the CBD method, designed to give the reader a basic knowledge of the technique. The rest of the review then focuses on nanocrystalline (or, in the few cases of amorphous deposits, nanoparticle) films. The various factors which determine crystal size are first discussed. This is followed by some of the many examples of size quantization observed in the films. Since CBD films are usually porous, surface effects can be very important, and various surface-dependent properties (light emission and surface states) as well as surface modification, are treated: (although some properties, like emission, can be strongly dependent on both surface and 'bulk'). Because of the fact that many CBD films have been made specifically for use as photoelectrodes in photoelectrochemical cells, there is next a chapter on this topic with a few examples of such photoelectrodes. Film structure and morphology follows with examples of patterning, porosity and crystal shape. The review concludes with some of the author's opinions as to what the near future holds for CBD development in general.

Biodistribution studies of protein cage nanoparticles demonstrate broad tissue distribution and rapid clearance in vivo

Protein cage nanoparticles have the potential to serve as multifunctional cell targeted, imaging and therapeutic platforms for broad applications in medicine. However, before they find applications in medicine, their biocompatibility in vivo needs to be demonstrated. We provide here baseline biodistribution information of two different spherical protein cage nanoplatforms, the 28 nm viral Cowpea chlorotic mottle virus (CCMV) and the 12 nm heat shock protein (Hsp) cage. In naive and immunized mice both nanoplatforms show similar broad distribution and movement throughout most tissues and organs, rapid excretion, the absence of long-term persistence within mice tissue and organs, and no overt toxicity after a single injection. These results suggest that protein cage based nanoparticles may serve as safe, biocompatible, nanoplatforms for applications in medicine.

Size-dependent structural transformations of hematite nanoparticles. 1. Phase transition

Using Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), we characterize the structure and/or morphology of hematite (alpha-Fe(2)O(3)) particles with sizes of 7, 18, 39 and 120 nm. It is found that these nanoparticles possess maghemite (gamma-Fe(2)O(3))-like defects in the near surface regions, to which a vibrational mode at 690 cm(-1), active both in FTIR and Raman spectra, is assigned. The fraction of the maghemite-like defects and the net lattice disorder are inversely related to the particle size. However, the effect is opposite for nanoparticles grown by sintering of smaller hematite precursors under conditions when the formation of a uniform hematite-like structure throughout the aggregate is restricted by kinetic issues. This means that not only particle size but also the growth kinetics determines the structure of the nanoparticles. The observed structural changes are interpreted as size-induced alpha-Fe(2)O(3)<-->gamma-Fe(2)O(3) phase transitions. We develop a general model that considers spinel defects and absorbed/adsorbed species (in our case, hydroxyls) as dominant controls on structural changes with particle size in hematite nanoparticles, including solid-state phase transitions. These changes are represented by trajectories in a phase diagram built in three phase coordinates-concentrations of spinel defects, absorbed impurities, and adsorbed species. The critical size for the onset of the alpha-->gamma phase transition depends on the particle environment, and for the dry particles used in this study is about 40 nm. The model supports the existence of intermediate phases (protohematite and hydrohematite) during dehydration of goethite. We also demonstrate that the hematite structure is significantly less defective when the nanoparticles are immersed in water or KBr matrix, which is explained by the effects of the electrochemical double layer and increased rigidity of the particle environment. Finally, we revise the problem of applicability of IR spectroscopy to the lattice vibrations of hematite nanoparticles, demonstrating that structural comparison of different samples is much more reliable if it is based on the E(u) band at about 460 cm(-1) and the spinel band at 690 cm(-1), instead of the A(2u)/E(u) band at about 550 cm(-1) used in previous work. The new methodology is applied to analysis of the reported IR spectra of Martian hematite.

α-Chitin Nanocrystals Prepared from Shrimp Shells and Their Specific Surface Area Measurement

Alpha-chitin was isolated from shrimp shells. The chitin was subjected to extensive treatments of acid hydrolysis and mechanical disruption to yield nanocrystals. The goal of this article is to characterize alpha-chitin nanocrystals produced from shrimp shells in regard to crystallite properties and the specific surface area of the chitin nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction data indicate an increase in chitin crystallinity after hydrolysis, as less-ordered chitin domains are digested. Line broadening data were used to measure crystallite size and particle size in the hydrolyzed chitin nanocrystals. Dye adsorption with Congo red was used to measure the specific surface area of the particles, indicating values near 350 m2/g. This value was supported with calculations derived from X-ray crystallite size measurements. Particle surface area measurements were compared with similarly prepared cellulose nanocrystals.

Hydrothermal preparation and luminescence of LaF3:Eu3+ nanoparticles

LaF3:Eu3+ nanoparticles were prepared by a simple hydrothermal process at low temperature and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and fluorescence spectrum. Well-dispersed nanoparticles with an average size of 30 nm and a hexagonal shape were obtained. The influences of reaction temperature and time on the preparation and luminescence of LaF3:Eu3+ nanoparticles were investigated. Luminescent quenching occurred at a much higher concentration ( approximately 25mol%) and stronger luminescent intensity than in bulk LaF3:Eu3+. Fluorescence intensity of the LaF3:Eu3+ nanoparticles varied remarkably with calcination temperatures. It was found that samples without any further calcinations can emit quite strong fluorescence.

Privileged delivery of polymer nanoparticles to the perinuclear region of live cells via a non-clathrin, non-degradative pathway

The efficacy of many therapeutic molecules could be greatly enhanced by polymer-based nanoparticle systems capable of delivering them to the direct vicinity of the cell nucleus. However, degradation of the particles and encapsulated drugs within the enzyme-rich and low-pH environments of the endo/lysosomal pathway of cells has dramatically limited the efficacy of such systems. In this paper, we discovered that small polymeric particles (<25 nm) but not larger particles (>42 nm) enter live cells via a novel mechanism that leads to trafficking outside the endo/lysosomal pathway. Sub-25 nm particles rapidly transport to the perinuclear region of cells in vesicles that never acidify. The pathway is non-degradative, cholesterol independent, and non-clathrin and non-caveolae mediated. This privileged non-acidic pathway may be general since our results are surprisingly obtained with standard latex polymer beads without addition of ligands and may, therefore, provide a promising route for drug and gene delivery using biomaterial-based nanodevices.

Iron oxide shell as the oxidation-resistant layer in SmCo5 @ Fe2O3 core-shell magnetic nanoparticles

This paper presents a synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles of samarium cobalt alloys and the use of iron oxide as a coating layer to prevent the rapid oxidation of as-made Sm-Co nanoparticles. The colloidal nanoparticles of Sm-Co alloys were made in octyl ether using samarium acetylacetonate and dicobalt octacarbonyl as precursors in a mixture of 1,2-hexadecanediol, oleic acid, and trioctylphosphine oxide (TOPO). Such Sm-Co nanoparticle could be readily oxidized by air and formed a CoO antiferromagnetic layer. Exchange biasing was observed for the surface oxidized nanoparticles. In situ thermal decomposition of iron pentacarbonyl was used to create iron oxide shells on the Sm-Co nanoparticles. The iron oxide shell could prevent Sm-Co nanoparticles from rapid oxidation upon the exposure to air at ambient conditions.

Novel hyaluronic acid (HA) coated drug carriers (HCDCs) for human breast cancer treatment

Hyaluronic acid (HA) coated drug carriers (HCDCs) were successfully synthesized by chemical conjugation method for targeted delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) as a prototype anticancer drug to CD44 expressed human breast cancer cell. From XPS analysis, the HCDCs by conjugation methods demonstrated the superior HA fixation amount and colloidal stability compared with the nanoparticles by nanoprecipitation. The cytotoxicity of the HCDCs formulation accessed by the MTT assay against the higher CD44 expressed cell line (MDA-MB-231) and lower CD44 expressed cell line (ZR-75-1) human breast cancer cell lines demonstrated that the HCDCs formulation exhibited excellent tumoricidal effect and their affinity to cancer cells was predominant. The in vitro drug release profile of the HCDCs showed sustained release behavior and after 14 days, 80% of the encapsulated DOX was released due to a high release rate of DOX from HCDCs. We synthesized that HCDCs have therapeutic potentials of cancer as a target specific fashion by increasing the tumoricidal efficacy of targeted cancer cells while reducing their cytotoxicity of non-targeted cells to minimize the side effect.

Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide acid) nanoparticles for DNA delivery: Waiving preparation complexity and increasing efficiency

When designing a nonviral gene delivery system based on polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), it is important to keep in mind obstacles associated with future clinical applications. Simplifying the procedure of NPs production and taking toxicity into account are the most important issues that need to be addressed. Toxicity concerns in clinical trials may be raised when using additives such as cationic polymers/lipids, buffering reagents, and proteins. Therefore, the aim of this study was to simplify the formulation of poly (lactide-co-glycolide) acid NPs by shortening steps such as sonication time and by avoiding the use of additives while preserving its efficiency. NPs (300 nm) were formulated using a modified w/o/w technique with DNA entrapment efficiency of 80%. Once achieving such NPs, formulation parameters such as DNA loading, release kinetics, DNA integrity and bioactivity, uptake by cells, and toxicity were addressed. The NPs were readily taken by several cell lines and were localized mostly in their endo-lysosomal compartments. The NPs did not affect cells viability. Most importantly, transfection studies in COS-7 and Cf2th cells resulted with a 250-fold protein expression levels when compared with the control. These expression levels are higher than ones achieved with more complicated NPs systems, demonstrating the efficiency of our simplified NPs for gene delivery.

The Binding Avidity of a Nanoparticle-Based Multivalent Targeted Drug Delivery Platform

Dendrimer-based anticancer nanotherapeutics containing approximately 5 folate molecules have shown in vitro and in vivo efficacy in cancer cell targeting. Multivalent interactions have been inferred from observed targeting efficacy, but have not been experimentally proven. This study provides quantitative and systematic evidence for multivalent interactions between these nanodevices and folate-binding protein (FBP). A series of the nanodevices were synthesized by conjugation with different amounts of folate. Dissociation constants (K(D)) between the nanodevices and FBP measured by SPR are dramatically enhanced through multivalency ( approximately 2,500- to 170,000-fold). Qualitative evidence is also provided for a multivalent targeting effect to KB cells using flow cytometry. These data support the hypothesis that multivalent enhancement of K(D), not an enhanced rate of endocytosis, is the key factor resulting in the improved biological targeting by these drug delivery platforms.

Layered double hydroxide nanoparticles as cellular delivery vectors of supercoiled plasmid DNA

We prepared stable homogeneous suspensions with layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanoparticles for in vitro gene delivery tests. The viability of HEK 293T cells in the presence of LDH nanoparticles at different concentrations was investigated. This revealed 50% cell viability at 500 microg/mL of LDH nanoparticles that is much higher than 50-100 microg/mL used for the delivery tests. The supercoiled pEF-eGFP plasmid (ca. 6100 base pairs) was mixed with LDH nanoparticle suspensions for anion exchange at a weight ratio of DNA/LDH between 1:25 and 1:100. In vitro experiments show that GFP expression in HEK 293T cells starts in the first day, reaches the maximum levels by the second day and continues in the third day. The GFP expression generally increases with the increase in DNA loading in DNA-LDH nanohybrids. However, the delivery efficiency with LDH nanoparticles as the agent is low. For example, the relative efficiency is 7%-15% of that of the commercial agent FuGENE 6. Three to 6% of total cells expressed GFP in an amount detectable by the FACS cytometry 2 days after transfection at 1 microg/mL of plasmid DNA with 25 microg/mL of LDH nanomaterial. The lower delivery efficiency could be attributed to the aggregation of LDH nanoparticles caused by the long-chain plasmid DNA.

Specific Postcolumn Detection Method for HPLC Assay of Homocysteine Based on Aggregation of Fluorosurfactant-Capped Gold Nanoparticles

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) capped with nonionic fluorosurfactant molecules (Zonyl FSN) were synthesized, and with the colloidal solution as a probe reagent, a new postcolumn colorimetric detection method for HPLC assay of homocysteine (Hcy) has been developed. The FSN-capped GNPs exhibited excellent stability in aqueous solutions, even in the presence of high salt. The aggregation of the GNPs could be induced by either Hcy or cysteine, resulting in an absorption decrease of the colloidal solution at 525 nm and an absorption increase at longer wavelengths (600-700 nm); however, the GNPs did not respond to other amino acids and biomolecules such as glutathione, cysteinylglycine, and glucose. Under optimal conditions (i.e., high salt, neutral pH, and approximately 70 degrees C), the color change of the GNP solution could almost complete ( approximately 90%) within approximately 30 s upon the addition of Hcy. The high selectivity and very fast kinetics of the reaction make it a promising system for HPLC postcolumn detection. The new technique has been employed to determine total Hcy levels in human urine and plasma samples, and the results are satisfactory.

Advances in the chemical fabrication of complex multimaterial nanocrystals

In this work, recent achievements of nanochemistry research in the fabrication of colloidal nanoheterostructures are reviewed through revisiting relevant papers and related patents. Attention is focused on newly conceived generations of hybrid nanocrystals (HNCs) with a topologically controlled composition, in which size and shape tailored domains of different inorganic materials are permanently assembled together in a single multifunctional particle. Strategies for accessing HNCs in various configurations, such as core/shell systems, hetero-oligomers based on nearly spherical portions, and highly asymmetric nanostructures comprising joint sections with different shapes, are discussed. The chemical-physical properties and technological advantages offered by such complex nanocrystals are also highlighted.

Electronic properties of Ag nanoparticle arrays. A Kelvin probe and high resolution XPS study

The electronic properties of citrate stabilised Ag nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 4 to 35 nm were investigated by the Kelvin probe method and high resolution XPS. Two and three dimensional assemblies of the particles were prepared by electrostatic adsorption from aqueous solution onto poly-l-lysine modified surfaces. The work function of the Ag particles increased from 5.29 +/- 0.05 to 5.53 +/- 0.05 eV as the particle size decreased. These values are approximately 0.8 eV higher than for clean polycrystalline Ag surfaces. The origin of these remarkable high work functions cannot be explained in terms of either citrate induced changes in the surface dipole or image forces in the confined metallic domains. High resolution XPS spectra of the Ag 3d(5/2) core level were characterised by broad bands and a 0.4 eV shift towards lower binding energies for the smallest particles. Comparisons with reported studies on extended Ag surfaces indicate that as-grown particles exhibit partially oxidised surfaces. The behaviour of the work function further suggests that the strength of the Ag-O bonding increases with decreasing particle sizes. These findings are highly relevant to the interpretation of the catalytic properties of Ag nanoparticles.

A molecular dynamics study of structural relaxation in tetrahedrally coordinated nanocrystals

The reorganisation of nanocrystals in order to reduce their surface energies has been examined in computer simulations. The relaxation takes a qualitatively different path for sphalerite- and wurtzite-structured particles. The surfaces of the sphalerite particles reconstruct into hexagonal nets, but the interior remains identifiable as sphalerite-like, whereas wurtzite particles form facetted, hexagonal nanorods by virtue of a reorganisation of the whole particle which involves the creation of a low energy internal interface between oppositely oriented domains. Despite the reorganisation, the diffraction patterns remain compatible with a wurtzite structure with some internal strain. The dipole moments of thermalized wurtzite particles are compared with experimental results for CdSe.

Effects of mechanical flexion on the penetration of fullerene amino acid-derivatized peptide nanoparticles through skin

Dermatomed porcine skin was fixed to a flexing device and topically dosed with 33.5 mg.mL-1 of an aqueous solution of a fullerene-substituted phenylalanine (Baa) derivative of a nuclear localization peptide sequence (Baa-Lys(FITC)-NLS). Skin was flexed for 60 or 90 min or left unflexed (control). Confocal microscopy depicted dermal penetration of the nanoparticles at 8 h in skin flexed for 60 and 90 min, whereas Baa-Lys(FITC)-NLS did not penetrate into the dermis of unflexed skin until 24 h. TEM analysis revealed fullerene-peptide localization within the intercellular spaces of the stratum granulosum.

Kinetics of NaCl nucleation in supercritical water investigated by molecular dynamics simulations

At system pressures between 17 MPa and 25 MPa the nucleation and growth of NaCl nanoparticles in water at supercritical conditions was investigated by molecular dynamics simulations at different system temperatures and system densities. Our results show that particle formation takes place within a few hundred picoseconds after the jump from ambient to supercritical conditions. After nucleation a phase of growth by adding monomers is followed by growth via cluster-cluster collisions. We present results on the time development of distributions of cluster sizes, cluster compositions, and cluster temperatures as well as radial distribution functions and nucleation rates.

Experimental study of single-electron phenomena in silicon nanocrystal memories

In this paper we present experimental evidence for single-electron phenomena in solid-state memories based on silicon nanocrystals as storage elements. The stepwise evolution of the channel current of a written memory cell biased in the subthreshold regime is monitored by means of a purposely designed low noise acquisition system with a bandwidth of 1 kHz. Each channel current step-up is ascribed to a single-electron emission from the silicon nanocrystal to the silicon substrate and each current step-down is ascribed to a single-electron capture from the silicon substrate into the silicon nanocrystal. The effect of the measurement system bandwidth on the detection of single-electron events is discussed and a procedure for extracting the threshold voltage shift associated to these events is proposed. It is shown that single-electron charging and discharging events in a memory cell with an area of 4.5 x 10(-10) cm2 can cause threshold voltage shift at room-temperature of the order of several millivolts. Qualitative explanation for the observed threshold voltage shift distribution is given.

Nanodiagnostics: fast colorimetric method for single nucleotide polymorphism/mutation detection

Advances in nanosciences are having a significant impact in many areas of research. The impact of new nanotechnologies has been particularly large in biodiagnostics, where a number of nanoparticle-based assays have been introduced for biomolecules detection. To date, applications of nanoparticles have largely focused on DNA-functionalised gold nanoparticles used as the target-specific probes. These gold nanoparticle-based systems can be used for the detection of specific sequences of DNA (pathogen detection, characterisation of mutation and/or single nucleotide polymorphisms) or RNA (without prior retro-transcription and amplification). Here a rapid and inexpensive nanoparticle-based method for single-base mismatch detection (single nucleotide polymorphism/mutation) in DNA samples is reported. Gold nanoparticles derivatised with thiol modified oligonucleotides complementary to DNA targets -- Au-nanoprobes -- are used to distinguish fully complementary from mismatched sequences, with a single-base mismatch. The authors have successfully applied this strategy to detect common mutations within the beta-globin gene.

Synthesis, characterization, effect of architecture on crystallization of biodegradable poly(ɛ-caprolactone)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) copolymers with different arms and nanoparticles thereof

Well-defined biodegradable poly(epsilon-caprolactone)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) (PCL-b-PEO) copolymers with different arms were synthesized via controlled ring-opening polymerization of epsilon-caprolactone, followed by coupling reaction with carboxyl-terminated PEO, where these copolymers included both star-shaped copolymers having four and six arms and linear analogues having one and two arms. When the weight percent of both PCL and PEO blocks within copolymer was similar to each other, the maximal melting temperature, the crystallization temperature, degree of crystallinity, and the spherulitic growth rate of these copolymers decreased with the increasing arm number of polymer. Moreover, the diameter of nanoparticles fabricated from these copolymers had a decreased tendency over the arm number of polymer, while it slightly increased with increasing weight percent of PCL within copolymer. These results indicate that both the arm number of polymer (macromolecular architecture) and the arm length ratio of PCL to PEO not only controlled the crystallization behavior and spherulitic growth, but also adjusted the size of nanoparticles. Significantly, this will provide a starting point not only to improve the physical properties and drug release profiles of PCL-based biomaterials, but also to design new PCL/PEO-based biomaterials from both the arm number of polymer and the balance between hydrophobic PCL and hydrophilic PEO.

Solid-phase peptide synthesis using nanoparticulate amino acids in water

Solid-phase peptide synthesis has many advantages compared with solution peptide synthesis. However, this procedure requires a large amount of organic solvents. Since safe organic solvent waste disposal is an important environmental problem, a technology based on coupling reaction of suspended nanoparticle reactants in water was studied. Fmoc-amino acids are used widely, but most of them show low solubility in water. We prepared well-dispersible Fmoc-amino acid nanoparticles in water by pulverization using a planetary ball mill in the presence of poly(ethylene glycol). Leu-enkephalin amide was prepared successfully using the nanoparticulate Fmoc-amino acid on a poly(ethylene glycol)-grafted Rink amide resin in water.

High photoluminescence quantum yield of TiO2 nanocrystals prepared using an alcohothermal method

Highly dispersible TiO2 nanocrystals (approximately 6 nm) were prepared by an alcohothermal method. A strong and stable photoluminescence emission with a maximum at 450 nm was observed in the original TiO2 nanocrystals colloid. Compared with the emission from quinine sulphate in 0.05 mol/L sulphuric acid, the emission quantum yield of TiO2 nanocrystals was determined to be about 0.20, which was much higher than the values (0.002 and 0.001) reported in previous studies. The fluorescence micrograph of TiO2 nanocrystals encapsulated in lipsomes shows that TiO2 nanocrystals prepared in such a way have potential application as a fluorescence probe in biological imaging. Research on the luminescence mechanism indicates that the surface state and extent of crystallization of the TiO2 nanocrystals are crucial factors in the high photoluminescence quantum yield obtained in this study.

Internal structure of magnetic endosomes

The internal structure of biological vesicles filled with magnetic nanoparticles is investigated using the following complementary analyses: electronic transmission microscopy, dynamic probing by magneto-optical birefringence and structural probing by Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS). These magnetic vesicles are magnetic endosomes obtained via a non-specific interaction between cells and anionic magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. Thanks to a magnetic purification process, they are probed at two different stages of their formation within HeLa cells: (i) adsorption of nanoparticles onto the cellular membrane and (ii) their subsequent internalisation within endosomes. Differences in the microenvironment of the magnetic nanoparticles at those two different stages are highlighted here. The dynamics of magnetic nanoparticles adsorbed onto cellular membranes and confined within endosomes is respectively 3 and 5 orders of magnitude slower than for isolated magnetic nanoparticles in aqueous media. Interestingly, SANS experiments show that magnetic endosomes have an internal structure close to decorated vesicles, with magnetic nanoparticles locally decorating the endosome membrane, inside their inner-sphere. These results, important for future biomedical applications, suggest that multiple fusions of decorated vesicles are the biological processes underlying the endocytosis of that kind of nanometric materials.

Biomolecule–nanoparticle hybrids as functional units for nanobiotechnology

Biomolecule-metal or semiconductor nanoparticle (NP) hybrid systems combine the recognition and catalytic properties of biomolecules with the unique electronic and optical properties of NPs. This enables the application of the hybrid systems in developing new electronic and optical biosensors, to synthesize nanowires and nanocircuits, and to fabricate new devices. Metal NPs are employed as nano-connectors that activate redox enzymes, and they act as electrical or optical labels for biorecognition events. Similarly, semiconductor NPs act as optical probes for biorecognition processes. Double-stranded DNA or protein chains that are modified with metallic nanoclusters act as templates for the synthesis of metallic nanowires. The nanowires are used as building blocks to assemble nano-devices such as a transistor or a nanotransporter.

Using Nanodiscs to create water-soluble transmembrane chemoreceptors inserted in lipid bilayers

In this chapter we describe application of the emerging technology of Nanodiscs to chemoreceptors, a class of transmembrane proteins that presents many challenges to the investigator. Nanodiscs are soluble, nanoscale ( approximately 10nm diameter) particles of lipid bilayer surrounded by an annulus of amphipathic protein, the membrane scaffold protein. A transmembrane protein inserted in a Nanodisc is surrounded by a lipid bilayer much as it is prior to detergent solublization. Thus, the Nanodisc-inserted protein is in an environment that approximates its native state. Yet, that membrane protein is also water-soluble and segregated from other membrane proteins because the bilayer into which it is inserted is of very limited size and, with appropriate preparation, contains only a single protein. In a Nanodisc, the water-soluble, bilayer-inserted membrane protein can be purified by conventional techniques and analyzed for activities and interactions as a pure entity. Thus, Nanodisc technology has great promise for improving isolation, purification, and characterization of the many membrane proteins that are difficult to handle, become unstable, or lose native activity when surrounded by detergent instead of lipid bilayer. The technology has proven useful for the investigation of chemoreceptor activity as a function of oligomeric state.

Biochemical and immunochemical characterization of the antigen–antibody reaction on a non-toxic biomimetic interface immobilized red blood cells of crucian carp and gold nanoparticles

A special protein assay system based on a highly hydrophilic, non-toxic and conductive biominetic interface has been demonstrated. To fabricate such assay system, red blood cells of crucian carp (RBC) was initially grown on a glassy carbon electrode surface (GCE) deposited nano-sized gold particles (GPs), a second gold nanoparticle layer (NG) was then absorbed on the RBC surface, and finally mammary cancer 15-3 antibody (anti-CA15-3) was attached on the functional RBC surface. A competitive immunoassay format was employed to detect CA15-3 with horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-labeled CA15-3 as tracer and hydrogen peroxide as enzyme substrate. When the immunosensor was incubated into a mixture solution containing HRP-labeled CA15-3 and CA15-3 sample for 1h at 37 degrees C, the amperometric response decreased with the increment of CA15-3 sample concentration. AFM images of the modified layer revealed a uniform distribution of protein and nanogold. In situ QCM and electrochemical measurements demonstrated that the wanted antibody-antigen reactions should occur with high specificity and selectivity. The specific immunoassay system can be developed further to yield sophisticated structures for other proteins.

Fine particles that adsorb lipopolysaccharide via bridging calcium cations may mimic bacterial pathogenicity towards cells

Fine particles (10(2)- to 10(3)-nm diameter) are potentially potent adjuvants in acquired immune responses but little is known about their interaction with pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and impact upon innate immunity. Here we show that 200-nm-sized, food-grade titanium dioxide avidly binds lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with bridging calcium cations, and the complex induces marked proinflammatory signalling in primary human mononuclear phagocytes. In particular, caspase 1-dependent interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) secretion was induced at levels far greater than for the sum of the individual components, and without concomitant secretion of modulatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 receptor antagonist or transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1). Secondly, the conjugate induced apoptotic-like cell death. These responses were inhibited by blockade of both phagocytosis and scavenger receptor uptake. Specific caspase 1-facilitated IL-1beta secretion and apoptosis following phagocytosis are features of cellular responses to certain invasive, enteric pathogens, and hence induction of these events may be mimicked by fine particle-LPS conjugates. The inadvertent adsorption of PAMPs to ingested, inhaled, or "wear" fine particulate matter provides a further potential mechanism for the proinflammatory nature of fine particles.

Catalytic reductive dechlorination of p-chlorophenol in water using Ni/Fe nanoscale particles

Nanoscale bimetallic Ni/Fe particles were synthesized from the reaction of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) with reduction of Ni2+ and Fe2+ in aqueous solution. The obtained Ni/Fe particles were characterized by TEM (transmission electron microscope), XRD (X-ray diffractometer), and N2-BET. The dechlorination activity of the Ni/Fe was investigated using p-chlorophenol (p-CP) as a probe agent. Results demonstrated that the nanoscale Ni/Fe could effectively dechlorinate p-CP at relatively low metal to solution ratio of 0.4 g/L (Ni 5 wt%). The target with initial concentration of p-CP 0.625 mmol/L was dechlorinted completely in 60 min under ambient temperature and pressure. Factors affecting dechlorination efficiency, including reaction temperature, pH, Ni loading percentage over Fe, and metal to solution ratio, were investigated. The possible mechanism of dechlorination of p-CP was proposed and discussed. The pseudo-first-order reaction took place on the surface of the Ni/Fe bimetallic particles, and the activation energy of the dechlorination reaction was determined to be 21.2 kJ/mol at the temperature rang of 287-313 K.

Dye-sensitized nanocrystalline solar cells

The basic physical and chemical principles behind the dye-sensitized nanocrystalline solar cell (DSC: also known as the Grätzel cell after its inventor) are outlined in order to clarify the differences and similarities between the DSC and conventional semiconductor solar cells. The roles of the components of the DSC (wide bandgap oxide, sensitizer dye, redox electrolyte or hole conductor, counter electrode) are examined in order to show how they influence the performance of the system. The routes that can lead to loss of DSC performance are analyzed within a quantitative framework that considers electron transport and interfacial electron transfer processes, and strategies to improve cell performance are discussed. Electron transport and trapping in the mesoporous oxide are discussed, and a novel method to probe the electrochemical potential (quasi Fermi level) of electrons in the DSC is described. The article concludes with an assessment of the prospects for future development of the DSC concept.

Small-Molecule Analysis with Silicon-Nanoparticle-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry

Silicon nanopowder (5-50 nm) was applied as a matrix for the analysis of small molecules in laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry. In contrast with conventional matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time-of-flight mass spectrometry, the matrix background interference in the low mass range was significantly reduced. Effects of the particle size and sample preparation procedures on the background mass spectra and the analyte signal intensity have been investigated, and an optimized powder and sample preparation protocol was established. Several surface characterization tools have been applied as well. Both positive mode and negative mode laser desorption/ionization have been applied to different analytes including drugs, peptides, pesticides, acids, and others. Detection limits down to the low femtomole per microliter levels were achieved for propafenone and verapamil drugs. The method developed was found relatively tolerant to salt contamination, which allowed the direct analysis of morphine and propaphenone in untreated urine and triazine herbicides in a soil extract. The new silicon-nanoparticle-assisted laser desorption ionization method was found to be highly selective, which may be due to analyte-dependent precharging in solution, prior to vacuum laser desorption. Some aspects of the charge-transfer mechanism have been studied and discussed. In comparison with standard MALDI matrixes, the silicon nanopowder requires much lower laser fluence (contributing to a reduced background) has much better surface homogeneity, and is more tolerant to salt interference, which makes it an easily applicable practical tool at a potentially low cost.

Synthesis and temperature response analysis of magnetic-hydrogel nanocomposites

Magnetically responsive hydrogel networks based on composites of magnetic nanoparticles and temperature responsive hydrogels were developed. These systems show great promise as active components of microscale and nanoscale devices and are expected to have a wide applicability in various biomedical applications. Specifically, nanocomposite hydrogel systems based on the temperature sensitive N-isopropylacrylamide hydrogels crosslinked with ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, tetraethylene glycol dimethacrylate, and poly(ethylene glycol) 400 dimethacrylate (PEG400DMA) were synthesized and characterized. The composite systems were synthesized by UV free-radical polymerization. Iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles were incorporated into the hydrogel systems by polymerizing mixtures of the nanoparticles and monomer solutions. The swelling response of these composite systems to different crosslinking molecular weights, temperature, and the effect of the presence of the magnetic nanoparticles were examined.

Conjugates of poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) on amino cyclodextrins and their nanoparticles as protein delivery system

Poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLG) was chemically conjugated on two amino cyclodextrins, mono(6-(2-aminoethyl)amino-6-deoxy)-beta-cyclodextrin and ethylenediamino bridged bis(beta-cyclodextrin), to afford novel amphiphilic conjugates. Those conjugates were then characterized with infrared spectrometry (IR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H NMR) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). A repeat-nanoprecipitation (RP-NP) method was also developed to fabricate the nanoparticles of the conjugates with a water-soluble model protein, bovine serum albumin (BSA). At the end of RP-NP process, the availability of BSA was over 80% while the entrapment efficiency was 40-50% for each nanoprecipitation. The nanoparticles were rigid and spherical with diameters of 110-180 nm determined by transmission electron microscope (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and particle size analyzer. Nanoparticles possessed good steric stability during freeze-drying and resuspensions due to the existence of cyclodextrins corona. Interactions between BSA and the conjugates in the nanoparticles were then elucidated with IR experiments. About 25% BSA adsorbed on the surface of nanoparticles due to the interaction and was easy to release in the first day. The release of BSA from the nanoparticles was in three phases: a burst effect in the first day, a followed plateau in about a week, and a sustained release of the protein over 14 days. By changing the lactide/glycolide ratio, the degradation time of the conjugates and the release rate of BSA could be controlled. The loss of CDs content was faster than that of overall Mw during degradation since CDs formed outer corona of the nanoparticles. Both the novel biomaterials and the nanosphere fabrication technique contributed to the maintenance of protein structure.

[Nanoparticles (part 1)--the product of modern technology and new hazards in the work environment]

Nanoparticles are the structures with at least one dimension smaller that 100 nm. They occur as nanoaerosol, colloidal or nanocomposites. Particles come into existence in natural way by erosion, but most of them result from human action. Exposure to nanoaerosol has occurred for many years, in many branches of industry, particularly in combustion processes and thermal processing, but only the development of nanotechnology has evoked much concern among specialists in occupational safety and hygiene. Exposure to engineered nanoparticles present in the sector of research studies and advancement of nanotechnology, in chemical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries as well as in processes involving nanoparticles in the form of semi-products, has become a real threat. An increased surface area per mass unit, characteristic of nanostructures, substantially influences their toxicity. Therefore, it seems that the surface area and the number particles but not mass are a more reasonable measure of exposure to substances occurring in the form of nanoparticles.

Energy absorption characterization of human enamel using nanoindentation

Enamel is a natural composite, which has much higher toughness than its major component, crystalline hydroxyapatite. In this study, the energy absorption behavior of human sound enamel was investigated with nanoindentation techniques. A UMIS nanoindenter system as well as a Berkovich and two spherical indenters with nominal tip radii of 5 and 20 microm were used to indent enamel at different loading forces in the direction parallel to enamel prisms. Inelastic energy dissipation versus depth of indenter penetration (U%-h(p) curve) as well as a function of indentation strain (U%-epsilon curve) of enamel was determined. Enamel showed much higher energy absorption capacity than a ceramic material with equivalent modulus (fused silica). Even at the lowest forces (1 mN) for the 20 microm indenter, inelastic response was found. Additional tests done at different force loading rates illustrated that load rate has little influence on P-h response of enamel. The top surface of enamel has the plastic work of indentation of approximately 5.2 nJ/microm(3). The energy absorbing ability is influenced by the very small protein rich component that exists between the hydroxyapatite nanocrystals as well as within the sheath structure surrounding the enamel rods.

Silicon nanocrystal memories: a status update

In the last decade, the silicon nanocrystal memory technology has received widespread interests from the scientific community working in the field of non-volatile solid-state memories, considering it as a feasible candidate for the post-Flash scenario. The immunity to stress-induced leakage current and the reduction of parasitic floating-gate capacitive couplings make the nanocrystal technology very attractive, especially when considering the CMOS compatible process flow. However, many open issues still exist for its development, first of all concerning its scaling perspectives. Starting from the discussion of the basic principles of nanocrystal storage, in this paper we review the major benefits and the open challenges of the silicon nanocrystal memory technology.

Nanolubrication: patterned lubricating films using ultraviolet (UV) irradiation on hard disks

Nanolubrication is emerging to be the key technical barrier in many devices. One of the key attributes for successful device lubrication is self-sustainability using only several molecular layers. For single molecular species lubrication, one desires bonding strength and molecular mobility to repair the contact by diffusing back to the contact. One way to achieve this is the use of mask to shield the surface with a patterned surface texture, put a monolayer on the surface and induce bonding. Then re-deposit mobile molecules on the surface to bring the thickness back to the desired thickness. This paper describes the use of long wavelength UV irradiation (320-390 nm) to induce bonding of a perfluoropolyether (PFPE) on CN(x) disks for magnetic hard disk application. This allows the use of irradiation to control the degree of bonding on CN(x) coatings. The effect of induced bonding based on this wavelength was studied by comparing 100% mobile PFPE, 100% bonded PFPE, and a mixture of mobile and bonded PFPE in a series of laboratory tests. Using a lateral force microscope, a diamond-tipped atomic force microscope, and a ball-on-inclined plane apparatus, the friction and wear characteristics of these three cases were obtained. Results suggested that the mixed PFPE has the highest shear rupture strength.

Synthesis and characterization of radiopaque magnetic core-shell nanoparticles for X-ray imaging applications

Radiopaque magnetic gamma-Fe(2)O(3)/poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl(2,3,5-triiodobenzoate)) core-shell nanoparticles of narrow size distribution were prepared by emulsion polymerization of the iodinated monomer 2-methacryloyloxyethyl(2,3,5-triiodobenzoate) in the presence of maghemite (gamma-Fe(2)O(3) nanoparticles coated with a dextran shell are commonly used as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The present nanoparticles have similar core-shell structure substituting the dextran for the iodo polymer. These core-shell nanoparticles may therefore be useful as imaging contrast agents to detect various pathogenic zones and to observe different disease states in both modes: X-ray and MRI.

Low-Molecular-Weight Polyethylenimine Enhanced Gene Transfer by Cationic Cholesterol-Based Nanoparticle Vector

Both polyethylenimine (PEI) polymers and cationic nanoparticles have been widely used for non-viral DNA transfection. Previously, we reported that cationic nanoparticles composed of cholesteryl-3beta-carboxyamidoethylene-N-hydroxyethylamine and Tween 80 (NP-OH) could deliver plasmid DNA (pDNA) with high transfection efficiency. To increase the transfection activity of NP-OH, we investigated the potential synergism of PEI and NP-OH for the transfection of DNA into human prostate tumor PC-3, human cervices tumor Hela, and human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. The transfection efficiency with low-molecular PEI (MW 600) was low, but that with a combination of NP-OH and PEI was higher than with NP-OH alone, being comparable to commercially available lipofectamine 2,000 and lipofectamine LTX, with very low cytotoxicity. Low-molecular weight PEI could not compact pDNA in size, but rather might help to dissociate pDNA from the complex and release pDNA from the endosome to cytoplasm by the proton sponge effect. Therefore, the combination of cationic cholesterol-based nanoparticles and a low-molecular PEI has potential as a non-viral DNA vector for gene delivery.

Hepatitis-B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Powder Formulation: Process and Stability Assessment

The purpose of this study was to develop a hepatitis-B surface antigen (HBsAg) dry powder vaccine formulation suitable for epidermal powder immunization (EPI) via an efficient, scalable powder-formation process. Several HBsAg dry powder formulations were prepared using four different powder-formation methods: freeze-drying/compress/grind/sieve (FD/C/G/S), spray-drying (SD), agarose beads, and spray freeze-drying (SFD). Powder properties and physical stability were determined using particle size analysis, tap density measurement, scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, and moisture content analysis. Physical, chemical and biochemical stability of HBsAg was determined by dynamic light scattering, an enzyme immune assay, and immunogenicity in a mouse or hairless guinea pig model. Out of the four powder-formation methods evaluated SFD outperformed other methods in the following considerations: good process efficiency, flexible scalability, and desirable particle characteristics for skin penetration. The stress posed by SFD appeared to be mild as HBsAg in the dry form retained its potency and immunogenicity. Notably, the mechanism of fast freezing by SFD actually promoted the preservation of HBsAg nanoparticle size, in good correlation with long-term biochemical stability. Among several formulations screened, the formulation containing 10 microg HBsAg in 1-mg powder with a tertiary mixture of trehalose, mannitol, and dextran, exhibited excellent overall stability performance. In conclusion, HBsAg dry powder formulations suitable for EPI were successfully prepared using SFD. Further, a systematic formulation development strategy allowed the development and optimization of an HBsAg dry powder formulation, demonstrating excellent long-term physical, biochemical, and immunological stability.

Evaluation of a new nano-filled restorative material for bonding orthodontic brackets

AIM

To compare the shear bond strength of a nano-hybrid restorative material, Grandio (Voco, Cuxhaven, Germany), to that of a traditional adhesive material (Transbond XT; 3M Unitek, Monrovia, CA, USA) when bonding orthodontic brackets.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty teeth were randomly divided into 2 groups: 20 teeth were bonded with the Transbond adhesive system and the other 20 teeth with the Grandio restorative system, following manufacturer's instructions. Student t test was used to compare the shear bond strength of the 2 systems. Significance was predetermined at P 5 .05.

RESULTS

The t test comparisons (t = 0.55) of the shear bond strength between the 2 adhesives indicated the absence of a significant (P = .585) difference. The mean shear bond strength for Grandio was 4.1 +/- 2.6 MPa and that for Transbond XT was 4.6 +/- 3.2 MPa. During debonding, 3 of 20 brackets (15%) bonded with Grandio failed without registering any force on the Zwick recording. None of the brackets bonded with Transbond XT had a similar failure mode.

CONCLUSIONS

The newly introduced nano-filled composite materials can potentially be used to bond orthodontic brackets to teeth if its consistency can be more flowable to readily adhere to the bracket base.

Ge quantum dot memory structure with laterally ordered highly dense arrays of Ge dots

This work was devoted to the development of a Ge quantum dot memory structure of a MOSFET type with laterally ordered Ge quantum dots within the gate dielectric stack. Lateral ordering of the Ge dots was achieved by the combination of the following technological steps: (a) use of a focused ion beam (FIB) to create ordered two-dimensional arrays of regular holes on a field oxide on the silicon substrate, (b) chemical cleaning and restoring of the Si surface in the holes, (c) further oxidation to transfer the pattern from the field oxide to the silicon substrate, (d) removal of the field oxide and thermal re-oxidation of the sample in order to create a tunneling oxide of homogeneous thickness on the patterned silicon surface, and (e) self-assembly of the two-dimensional arrays of Ge dots on the patterned tunneling oxide. The charging properties of the obtained memory structure were characterized by electrical measurements. Charging of the Ge quantum dot layer by electrons injected from the substrate resulted in a large shift in the capacitance-voltage curves of the MOS structure. Charges were stored in deep traps in the charging layer, and consequently the erasing process was difficult, resulting in a limited memory window. The advantages of controlled positioning of the quantum dots in the charging layer will be discussed.

Preparation and characterisation of hydroxide stabilised ZnO(0001)–Zn–OH surfaces

Two different approaches under ambient conditions were developed for the preparation of clean, non-reconstructed, single crystalline ZnO(0001)-Zn surfaces. The surface preparation by a wet chemical etching procedure was compared with the same treatment in combination with a subsequent heat treatment in humidified oxygen atmosphere. Depending on the preparation technique, atomically flat terraces with a width of 100 nm to several micrometers were observed using an atomic force microscope (AFM). The obtained surface structures were further characterized by means of angle resolved X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (AR-XPS), time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy (ToF-SIMS), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) and low energy electron diffraction (LEED) measurements. Based on these results it is shown that the obtained surfaces are, in contrast to surfaces prepared under UHV conditions, stabilised by the adsorption of a monolayer of hydroxides. The important role of H(2)O during the heat treatment is pointed out by comparing the results of the same heat treatment in the absence of water. H(2)O turned out to play an important role in the reorganization process of the surface at elevated temperatures, thereby yielding extremely large atomically flat terraces. The terminating edges of these terraces were found to include 120 degrees and 60 degrees angles, thus perfectly reflecting the hexagonal surface structure.

Development and in vitro evaluation of a thiomer-based nanoparticulate gene delivery system

Chitosan-thiobutylamidine was developed and evaluated as a novel tool for gene delivery. The conjugate, displaying 299.1+/-11.5 micromol free thiol groups per gram polymer, formed coacervates with pDNA at a mean size of 125 nm and a zeta potential of +9 mV. Thiol groups, being susceptible for oxidation, were immobilised on the polymeric backbone of chitosan in order to introduce the property of extracellular stability and intracellular pDNA release by forming reversible disulfide bonds. The integrity of the new particles was compared to unmodified chitosan under simulated physiological conditions. Within 10h, pDNA was completely released from chitosan-DNA particles while only 12% were released from the thiomer-based particles. At pH 7, the amount of thiol groups significantly (p<0.05) decreased by more than 25% within 6h. In contrast, in a reducing environment as found intracellularly, chitosan-thiobutylamidine-DNA nanoparticles dissociated continuously, liberating approximately 50% of pDNA within 3h. Transfection studies performed in a Caco2 cell culture evinced the highest efficiency for chitosan-thiobutylamidine-DNA nanoparticles in combination with a glycerol shock solution. The combination of improved stability, enhanced pDNA release under reducing conditions, and higher transfection efficiency identifies chitosan-thiobutylamidine as a promising new vector for gene delivery.

Amine-containing core-shell nanoparticles as potential drug carriers for intracellular delivery

The present study aimed at exploring the use of amine-containing core-shell nanoparticles as potential drug carriers for intracellular delivery. Stable nanoparticles (100-200 nm in diameter) that consisted of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) cores with hydrophilic poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI) shells were synthesized and used to study their complexation with model drug, ibuprofen (IB), and release it under various electrolyte concentrations. The complexed IB/PEI-PMMA nanoparticles were characterized with FTIR, photon correlation spectroscopy, zeta-potential, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results suggested that the PEI-PMMA nanoparticles could effectively complex with the IB via electrostatic interaction. The thick PEI shells ( approximately 30 nm) significantly enhanced the drug loading capacity up to 23% (w/w) of the complexed nanopartricle. In vitro release of the drug from the complexed nanoparticles was sensitive to the ionic strength of the media. Study of cellular entry of fluorescently labeled IB/nanoparticle complexes using a confocal laser scanning microscopy demonstrated that the entry of the complexed nanoparticles strongly depended on the complexing ratio between IB and PEI-PMMA nanoparticles.