Biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles based drug delivery systems

Targeted drug-loaded PLGA-PCL microspheres for specific and localized treatment of triple negative breast cancer

The paper presents the results of the experimental and analytical study of targeted drug-loaded polymer-based microspheres made from blend polymer of polylactic-co-glycolic acid and polycaprolactone (PLGA-PCL) for targeted and localized cancer drug delivery. In vitro sustained release with detailed thermodynamically driven drug release kinetics, over a period of three months using encapsulated targeted drugs (prodigiosin-EphA2 or paclitaxel-EphA2) and control drugs [Prodigiosin (PGS), and paclitaxel (PTX)] were studied. Results from in vitro study showed a sustained and localized drug release that is well-characterized by non-Fickian Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetics model over the range of temperatures of 37 °C (body temperature), 41 °C, and 44 °C (hyperthermic temperatures). The in vitro alamar blue, and flow cytometry assays in the presence of the different drug-loaded polymer formulations resulted to cell death and cytotoxicity that was evidence through cell inhibition and late apoptosis on triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells (MDA-MB 231). In vivo studies carried out on groups of 4-week-old athymic nude mice that were induced with subcutaneous TNBC, showed that the localized release of the EphA2-conjugated drugs was effective in complete elimination of residual tumor after local surgical resection. Finally, ex vivo histopathological analysis carried out on the euthanized mice revealed no cytotoxicity and absence of breast cancer metastases in the liver, kidney, and lungs 12 weeks after treatment. The implications of the results are then discussed for the development of encapsulated EphA2-conjugated drugs formulation in the specific targeting, localized, and sustain drug release for the elimination of local recurred TNBC tumors after surgical resection.

Strategies for overcoming protein and peptide instability in biodegradable drug delivery systems

The global pharmaceutical market has recently shifted its focus from small molecule drugs to peptide, protein, and nucleic acid drugs, which now comprise a majority of the top-selling pharmaceutical products on the market. Although these biologics often offer improved drug specificity, new mechanisms of action, and/or enhanced efficacy, they also present new challenges, including an increased potential for degradation and a need for frequent administration via more invasive administration routes, which can limit patient access, patient adherence, and ultimately the clinical impact of these drugs. Controlled-release systems have the potential to mitigate these challenges by offering superior control over in vivo drug levels, localizing these drugs to tissues of interest (e.g., tumors), and reducing administration frequency. Unfortunately, adapting controlled-release devices to release biologics has proven difficult due to the poor stability of biologics. In this review, we summarize the current state of controlled-release peptides and proteins, discuss existing techniques used to stabilize these drugs through encapsulation, storage, and in vivo release, and provide perspective on the most promising opportunities for the clinical translation of controlled-release peptides and proteins.

Polysaccharide-based nanoassemblies: From synthesis methodologies and industrial applications to future prospects

Polysaccharides, due to their remarkable features, have gained significant prominence in the sustainable production of nanoparticles (NPs). High market demand and minimal production cost, compared to the chemically synthesised NPs, demonstrate a drive towards polysaccharide-based nanoparticles (PSNPs) benign to environment. Various approaches are used for the synthesis of PSNPs including cross-linking, polyelectrolyte complexation, and self-assembly. PSNPs have the potential to replace a wide diversity of chemical-based agents within the food, health, medical and pharmacy sectors. Nevertheless, the considerable challenges associated with optimising the characteristics of PSNPs to meet specific targeting applications are of utmost importance. This review provides a detailed compilation of recent accomplishments in the synthesis of PSNPs, the fundamental principles and critical factors that govern their rational fabrication, as well as various characterisation techniques. Noteworthy, the multiple use of PSNPs in different disciplines such as biomedical, cosmetics agrochemicals, energy storage, water detoxification, and food-related realms, is accounted in detail. Insights into the toxicological impacts of the PSNPs and their possible risks to human health are addressed, and efforts made in terms of PSNPs development and optimising strategies that allow for enhanced delivery are highlighted. Finally, limitations, potential drawbacks, market diffusion, economic viability and future possibilities for PSNPs to achieve widespread commercial use are also discussed.

Preparation, characterization, and evaluation of antibacterial and cytotoxic activity of chitosan-polyethylene glycol nanoparticles loaded with amoxicillin as a novel drug delivery system

In this study, nanoparticles of amoxicillin (AMX) were prepared using chitosan (CHI) and polyethylene glycol (PEG). The physicochemical properties of the particles were investigated by FT-IR, DSC, SEM, and zeta potential analyses. The nanoparticles showed a spherical shape, and the average size of formulations was within the range of 696.20 ± 24.86 - 359.53 ± 7.41 nm. Zeta potential data demonstrated that the formulations had positive surface charges with a zeta potential range of 21.38 ± 2.28 - 7.73 ± 1.66 mV. FTIR analysis showed that the drug was successfully entrapped in the nanoparticles. DSC results suggested that the drug was present in amorphous form in the polymer matrix. In vitro release studies demonstrated that the release pattern consisted of two phases, with an initial burst release followed by a controlled and sustained release. The MTT assay results on mouse fibroblast cell line indicated that the prepared formulations did not affect the viability of the cells. In the in vitro antibacterial activity test, it was found that the drug-loaded nanoparticles have AMX-equivalent antibacterial activity against E. coli, and S. aureus. These findings revealed that the obtained nanoparticles might be a promising and safe nanocarrier system for efficient delivery of AMX.

Nanocarriers with Multiple Cargo Load-A Comprehensive Preparation Guideline Using Orthogonal Strategies

Multifunctional nanocarriers enhance the treatment efficacy for modern therapeutics and have gained increasing importance in biomedical research. Codelivery of multiple bioactive molecules enables synergistic therapies. Coencapsulation of cargo molecules into one nanocarrier system is challenging due to different physicochemical properties of the cargo molecules. Additionally, coencapsulation of multiple molecules simultaneously shall proceed with high control and efficiency. Orthogonal approaches for the preparation of nanocarriers are essential to encapsulate sensitive bioactive molecules while preserving their bioactivity. Preparation of nanocarriers by physical processes (i.e., self-assembly or coacervation) and chemical reactions (i.e., click reactions, polymerizations, etc.) are considered as orthogonal methods to most cargo molecules. This review shall act as a guideline to allow the reader to select a suitable preparation protocol for a desired nanocarrier system. This article helps to select for combinations of cargo molecules (hydrophilic-hydrophobic, small-macro, organic-inorganic) with nanocarrier material and synthesis protocols. The focus of this article lies on the coencapsulation of multiple cargo molecules into biocompatible and biodegradable nanocarriers prepared by orthogonal strategies. With this toolbox, the selection of a preparation method for a known set of cargo molecules to prepare the desired biodegradable and loaded nanocarrier shall be provided.

Posterity of nanoscience as lipid nanosystems for Alzheimer's disease regression

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a type of dementia that affects a vast number of people around the world, causing a great deal of misery and death. Evidence reveals a relationship between the presence of soluble Aβ peptide aggregates and the severity of dementia in Alzheimer's patients. The BBB (Blood Brain Barrier) is a key problem in Alzheimer's disease because it prevents therapeutics from reaching the desired places. To address the issue, lipid nanosystems have been employed to deliver therapeutic chemicals for anti-AD therapy in a precise and targeted manner. The applicability and clinical significance of lipid nanosystems to deliver therapeutic chemicals (Galantamine, Nicotinamide, Quercetin, Resveratrol, Curcumin, HUPA, Rapamycin, and Ibuprofen) for anti-AD therapy will be discussed in this review. Furthermore, the clinical implications of the aforementioned therapeutic compounds for anti-AD treatment have been examined. Thus, this review will pave the way for researchers to fashion therodiagnostics approaches based on nanomedicine to overcome the problems of delivering therapeutic molecules across the blood brain barrier (BBB).

Plasma Modification Techniques for Natural Polymer-Based Drug Delivery Systems

Natural polymers have attracted significant attention in drug delivery applications due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatility. However, their surface properties often limit their use as drug delivery vehicles, as they may exhibit poor wettability, weak adhesion, and inadequate drug loading and release. Plasma treatment is a promising surface modification technique that can overcome these limitations by introducing various functional groups onto the natural polymer surface, thus enhancing its physicochemical and biological properties. This review provides a critical overview of recent advances in the plasma modification of natural polymer-based drug delivery systems, with a focus on controllable plasma treatment techniques. The review covers the fundamental principles of plasma generation, process control, and characterization of plasma-treated natural polymer surfaces. It discusses the various applications of plasma-modified natural polymer-based drug delivery systems, including improved biocompatibility, controlled drug release, and targeted drug delivery. The challenges and emerging trends in the field of plasma modification of natural polymer-based drug delivery systems are also highlighted. The review concludes with a discussion of the potential of controllable plasma treatment as a versatile and effective tool for the surface functionalization of natural polymer-based drug delivery systems.

Nanodepots Encapsulating a Latency Reversing Agent and Broadly Neutralizing Antibody Enhance Natural Killer Cell Cytotoxicity Against an in vitro Model of Latent HIV

Purpose

Current antiretroviral therapies (ART) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are not curative, as the virus persists in latent reservoirs, requiring lifelong adherence to ART and increasing the risk of co-morbidities. "Shock and kill" approaches to reactivate HIV from latent reservoirs followed by administration of anti-HIV drugs represent a promising strategy for eradicating latent HIV. To achieve effective shock and kill, we describe a strategy to eradicate the HIV reservoir that combines latency reversing agents (LRAs), broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs), and natural killer (NK) cells. This strategy utilizes a polymer nanodepot (ND) that co-encapsulates the LRA and bnAb to reactivate latent infection and elicit enhanced cytotoxicity from co-administered NK cells.

Methods

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) NDs were synthesized using the nanoprecipitation method to co-encapsulate an LRA (TNF-α) and a bnAb (3BNC117) (TNF-α-3BNC117-NDs). ACH-2 cells were used as a cellular model of latent HIV infection. An NK92 subline, genetically modified to constitutively express the Fc receptor CD16, was administered to ACH-2 cells in combination with TNF-α-3BNC117-NDs. ACH-2 cell death and extracellular p24 were measured via flow cytometry and ELISA, respectively.

Results

Stable PLGA NDs co-encapsulated TNF-α and 3BNC117 with high efficiencies and released these agents in physiological conditions. NK92 phenotype remained similar in the presence of TNF-α-3BNC117-NDs. TNF-α released from NDs efficiently reactivated HIV in ACH-2 cells, as measured by a 3.0-fold increase in the frequency of intracellular p24 positive cells. Released 3BNC117 neutralized and bound reactivated virus, targeting 57.5% of total ACH-2 cells. Critically, TNF-α-3BNC117-NDs significantly enhanced NK92 cell-mediated killing of ACH-2 cells (1.9-fold) and reduced extracellular levels of p24 to baseline.

Conclusion

These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of our novel ND-based tripartite strategy to reactivate HIV from latently infected cells, generate an HIV-specific site for bnAb binding, and enhance the killing of reactivated HIV-infected target cells by NK92 cells.

Antineoplastic effects of cassava-cyanide extract on human glioblastoma (LN229) cells

Several natural compounds reduce tumour cell growth and metastasis by inducing programmed cell death. Cassava (Manihot esculentaCrantz) contains cyanogenic glycosides such as, linamarin and lotaustralin, can be enzymatically cleaved by linamarase to release hydrogen cyanide (HCN), which can have therapeutic benefits against hypertension, asthma, and cancer. We have developed a technology for isolatingbio-active principles from cassava leaves.The present study is designed to analyzethe cytotoxic effect of cassava cyanideextract (CCE) against human glioblastoma cells (LN229). The treatment of CCE demonstrated a dose dependent toxicity on glioblastoma cells. At higher concentration tested, the CCE (400  μg/mL) was found to be cytotoxic, reducing the cell viability to 14.07 ± 2.15% by negatively influencing the mitochondrial activity, and lysosomal and cytoskeletal integrity. Coomassie's brilliant blue staining confirmed cells' morphological aberration after 24 h of treatment with CCE. Moreover, DCFH-DA assay and Griess reagent showed an increase in ROS but a decrease in RNS production at a concentration of CCE. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that CCE interfered with G0/G1, S, and G2/M stages of the cell cycle of glioblastoma, and Annexin/PI staining indicated a dose-dependent increase in cell death, confirming the toxic nature of CCE on LN229 cells. These findings suggest that cassava cyanide extract has potential as an antineoplastic agent against glioblastoma cells, which is an aggressive and difficult-to-treat type of brain cancer. However, it is important to note that the study was conducted in vitro, and further research is necessary to assess the safety and efficacy of CCE in vivo. Additionally, it is essential to establish the optimal dose and potential side effects before considering its use as a therapeutic agent.

Advancement and application of novel cell-penetrating peptide in cancer management

Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are small amino acid sequences with the potential to enter cell membranes. Along with nucleic acids, large proteins, and other chemical compounds, they can deliver several bioactive cargos inside cells. Numerous CPPs have been extracted from natural or synthetic materials since the discovery of the first CPP. In the past few decades, a significant variety of studies have shown the potential of CPPs to cure different diseases. The low toxicity in peptide compared to other drug delivery carriers is a significant benefit of CPP-based therapy, in addition to the high efficacy brought about by swift and effective delivery. A significant tendency for intracellular DNA delivery may also be observed when nanoparticles and the cell penetration peptide are combined. CPPs are frequently used to increase intracellular absorption of nucleic acid, and other therapeutic agents inside the cell. Due to long-term side effects and possible toxicity, its implementation is restricted. The use of cell-permeating peptides is a commonly used technique to increase their intracellular absorption. Additionally, CPPs have lately been sought for application in vivo, following their success in cellular studies. This review will go through the numerous CPPs, the chemical modifications that improve their cellular uptake, the various means for getting them across cell membranes, and the biological activity they acquire after being conjugate with specific chemicals.

Recent progress of nanomedicine in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of memory disruption in elderly subjects, with the prevalence continuing to rise mainly because of the aging world population. Unfortunately, no efficient therapy is currently available for the AD treatment, due to low drug potency and several challenges to delivery, including low bioavailability and the impediments of the blood-brain barrier. Recently, nanomedicine has gained considerable attention among researchers all over the world and shown promising developments in AD treatment. A wide range of nano-carriers, such as polymer nanoparticles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, dendritic nanoparticles, biomimetic nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, etc., have been adapted to develop successful new treatment strategies. This review comprehensively summarizes the recent advances of different nanomedicine for their efficacy in pre-clinical studies. Finally, some insights and future research directions are proposed. This review can provide useful information to guide the future design and evaluation of nanomedicine in AD treatment.

Advances of nanotechnology applied to cancer stem cells

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small proportion of the cells that exist in cancer tissues. They are considered to be the culprit of tumor genesis, development, drug resistance, metastasis and recurrence because of their self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation potential. The elimination of CSCs is thus the key to cure cancer, and targeting CSCs provides a new method for tumor treatment. Due to the advantages of controlled sustained release, targeting and high biocompatibility, a variety of nanomaterials are used in the diagnosis and treatments targeting CSCs and promote the recognition and removal of tumor cells and CSCs. This article mainly reviews the research progress of nanotechnology in sorting CSCs and nanodrug delivery systems targeting CSCs. Furthermore, we identify the problems and future research directions of nanotechnology in CSC therapy. We hope that this review will provide guidance for the design of nanotechnology as a drug carrier so that it can be used in clinic for cancer therapy as soon as possible.

Use of Poly Lactic-co-glycolic Acid Nano and Micro Particles in the Delivery of Drugs Modulating Different Phases of Inflammation

Chronic inflammation contributes to the pathogenesis of many diseases, including apparently unrelated conditions such as metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, osteoporosis, and tumors, but the use of conventional anti-inflammatory drugs to treat these diseases is generally not very effective given their adverse effects. In addition, some alternative anti-inflammatory medications, such as many natural compounds, have scarce solubility and stability, which are associated with low bioavailability. Therefore, encapsulation within nanoparticles (NPs) may represent an effective strategy to enhance the pharmacological properties of these bioactive molecules, and poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) NPs have been widely used because of their high biocompatibility and biodegradability and possibility to finely tune erosion time, hydrophilic/hydrophobic nature, and mechanical properties by acting on the polymer's composition and preparation technique. Many studies have been focused on the use of PLGA-NPs to deliver immunosuppressive treatments for autoimmune and allergic diseases or to elicit protective immune responses, such as in vaccination and cancer immunotherapy. By contrast, this review is focused on the use of PLGA NPs in preclinical in vivo models of other diseases in which a key role is played by chronic inflammation or unbalance between the protective and reparative phases of inflammation, with a particular focus on intestinal bowel disease; cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, osteoarticular, and ocular diseases; and wound healing.

In vitro and in silico evaluation of the design of nano-phyto-drug candidate for oral use against Staphylococcus aureus

Onopordum acanthium is a medicinal plant with many important properties, such as antibacterial, anticancer, and anti-hypotensive properties. Although various studies reported the biological activities of O. acanthium, there is no study on its nano-phyto-drug formulation. The aim of this study is to develop a candidate nano-drug based on phytotherapeutic constituents and evaluate its efficiency in vitro and in silico. In this context, poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) of O. acanthium extract (OAE) were synthesized and characterized. It was determined that the average particle size of OAE-PLGA-NPs was 214.9 ± 6.77 nm, and the zeta potential was -8.03 ± 0.85 mV, and PdI value was 0.064 ± 0.013. The encapsulation efficiency of OAE-PLGA-NPs was calculated as 91%, and the loading capacity as 75.83%. The in vitro drug release study showed that OAE was released from the PLGA NPs with 99.39% over the 6 days. Furthermore, the mutagenic and cytotoxic activity of free OAE and OAE-PLGA-NPs were evaluated by the Ames test and MTT test, respectively. Although 0.75 and 0.37 mg/mL free OAE concentrations caused both frameshift mutation and base pair substitution (p < 0.05), the administered OAE-PLGA NP concentrations were not mutagenic. It was determined with the MTT analysis that the doses of 0.75 and 1.5 mg/mL of free OAE had a cytotoxic effect on the L929 fibroblast cell line (p < 0.05), and OAE-PLGA-NPs had no cytotoxic effect. Moreover, the interaction between the OAE and S. aureus was also investigated using the molecular docking analysis method. The molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) results were implemented to elucidate the S. aureus MurE inhibition potential of OAE. It was shown that quercetin in the OAE content interacted significantly with the substantial residues in the catalytic pocket of the S. aureus MurE enzyme, and quercetin performed four hydrogen bond interactions corresponding to a low binding energy of -6.77 kcal/mol with catalytic pocket binding residues, which are crucial for the inhibition mechanism of S. aureus MurE. Finally, the bacterial inhibition values of free OAE and OAE-PLGA NPs were determined against S. aureus using a microdilution method. The antibacterial results showed that the inhibition value of the OAE-PLGA NPs was 69%. In conclusion, from the in vitro and in silico results of the nano-sized OAE-PLGA NP formulation produced in this study, it was evaluated that the formulation may be recommended as a safe and effective nano-phyto-drug candidate against S. aureus.

Phytosome Supplements for Delivering Gymnema inodorum Phytonutrients to Prevent Inflammation in Macrophages and Insulin Resistance in Adipocytes

Gymnema inodorum (GI) is a leafy green vegetable found in the northern region of Thailand. A GI leaf extract has been developed as a dietary supplement for metabolic diabetic control. However, the active compounds in the GI leaf extract are relatively nonpolar. This study aimed to develop phytosome formulations of the GI extract to improve the efficiencies of their phytonutrients in terms of anti-inflammatory and anti-insulin-resistant activities in macrophages and adipocytes, respectively. Our results showed that the phytosomes assisted the GI extract's dispersion in an aqueous solution. The GI phytocompounds were assembled into a phospholipid bilayer membrane as spherical nanoparticles about 160-180 nm in diameter. The structure of the phytosomes allowed phenolic acids, flavonoids and triterpene derivatives to be embedded in the phospholipid membrane. The existence of GI phytochemicals in phytosomes significantly changed the particle's surface charge from neutral to negative within the range of -35 mV to -45 mV. The phytosome delivery system significantly exhibited the anti-inflammatory activity of the GI extract, indicated by the lower production of nitric oxide from inflamed macrophages compared to the non-encapsulated extract. However, the phospholipid component of phytosomes slightly interfered with the anti-insulin-resistant effects of the GI extract by decreasing the glucose uptake activity and increasing the lipid degradation of adipocytes. Altogether, the nano-phytosome is a potent carrier for transporting GI phytochemicals to prevent an early stage of T2DM.

Polymeric nanoparticles for enhanced delivery and improved bioactivity of essential oils

Essential oils are volatile constituents that give aromatic plants their characteristic odour. The application of these plant actives in food, agriculture, pharmaceutics, and cosmetics has been widely studied. Aromatherapy, a complementary therapy involving the use of essential oils to treat several diseases ranging from microbial infections to metabolic dysfunctions, has been utilised for centuries. Anticancer, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities are well-established among other pharmacological properties of these aromatic oils. The oils, which are composed mainly of terpene-based compounds, have also been explored as nutraceuticals, alternative green preservatives, and functional additives in foods. However, due to their physicochemical properties, viz high volatility and low aqueous solubility, essential oil delivery to target receptors were challenging when administered as chemotherapeutics. Hence, formulating essential oils with suitable excipients to enhance their delivery and bioavailability, invariably improving their bioactivity and therapeutic efficacy becomes expedient. Nanotechnology presents a unique strategy to develop a particulate delivery system for the controlled, sustained, and extended release of essential oils. In this review, we examine and summarize the trends and developments in the formulation of essential oils using polymeric nanoparticles.

Nanomedicine in therapeutic warfront against estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy in women worldwide. Almost 70-80% of cases of BC are curable at the early non-metastatic stage. BC is a heterogeneous disease with different molecular subtypes. Around 70% of breast tumors exhibit estrogen-receptor (ER) expression and endocrine therapy is used for the treatment of these patients. However, there are high chances of recurrence in the endocrine therapy regimen. Though chemotherapy and radiation therapy have substantially improved survival rates and treatment outcomes in BC patients, there is an increased possibility of the development of resistance and dose-limiting toxicities. Conventional treatment approaches often suffer from low bioavailability, adverse effects due to the non-specific action of chemotherapeutics, and low antitumor efficacy. Nanomedicine has emerged as a conspicuous strategy for delivering anticancer therapeutics in BC management. It has revolutionized the area of cancer therapy by increasing the bioavailability of the therapeutics and improving their anticancer efficacy with reduced toxicities on healthy tissues. In this article, we have highlighted various mechanisms and pathways involved in the progression of ER-positive BC. Further, different nanocarriers delivering drugs, genes, and natural therapeutic agents for surmounting BC are the spotlights of this article.

The Ethnopharmacological Properties of Green-Engineered Metallic Nanoparticles against Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic syndrome is a multifaceted pathophysiologic condition that is largely caused by an imbalance between caloric intake and energy expenditure. The pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome is determined by an individual's genetic/epigenetics and acquired factors. Natural compounds, notably plant extracts, have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and insulin-sensitizing properties and are considered to be a viable option for metabolic disorder treatment due to their low risk of side effects. However, the limited solubility, low bioavailability, and instability of these botanicals hinder their performance. These specific limitations have prompted the need for an efficient system that reduces drug degradation and loss, eliminates unwanted side effects, and boosts drug bioavailability, as well as the percentage of the drug deposited in the target areas. The quest for an enhanced (effective) drug delivery system has led to the formation of green-engineered nanoparticles, which has increased the bioavailability, biodistribution, solubility, and stability of plant-based products. The unification of plant extracts and metallic nanoparticles has helped in the development of new therapeutics against metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative disorders, non-alcoholic fatty liver, and cancer. The present review outlines the pathophysiology of metabolic diseases and their cures with plant-based nanomedicine.

Current Principles, Challenges, and New Metrics in pH-Responsive Drug Delivery Systems for Systemic Cancer Therapy

The paradigm of drug delivery via particulate formulations is one of the leading ideas that enable overcoming limitations of traditional chemotherapeutic agents. The trend toward more complex multifunctional drug carriers is well-traced in the literature. Nowadays, the prospectiveness of stimuli-responsive systems capable of controlled cargo release in the lesion nidus is widely accepted. Both endogenous and exogenous stimuli are employed for this purpose; however, endogenous pH is the most common trigger. Unfortunately, scientists encounter multiple challenges on the way to the implementation of this idea related to the vehicles' accumulation in off-target tissues, their immunogenicity, the complexity of drug delivery to intracellular targets, and finally, the difficulties in the fabrication of carriers matching all imposed requirements. Here, we discuss fundamental strategies for pH-responsive drug delivery, as well as limitations related to such carriers' application, and reveal the main problems, weaknesses, and reasons for poor clinical results. Moreover, we attempted to formulate the profiles of an "ideal" drug carrier in the frame of different strategies drawing on the example of metal-comprising materials and considered recently published studies through the lens of these profiles. We believe that this approach will facilitate the formulation of the main challenges facing researchers and the identification of the most promising trends in technology development.

Impact of nanotechnology on the oral delivery of phyto-bioactive compounds

Nanotechnology is an advanced field that has remarkable nutraceutical and food applications. Phyto-bioactive compounds (PBCs) play critical roles in promoting health and disease treatment. However, PBCs generally encounter several limitations that delay their widespread application. For example, most PBCs have low aqueous solubility, poor biostability, poor bioavailability, and a lack of target specificity. Moreover, the high concentrations of effective PBC doses also limit their application. As a result, encapsulating PBCs into an appropriate nanocarrier may increase their solubility and biostability and protect them from premature degradation. Moreover, nanoencapsulation could improve absorption and prolong circulation with a high opportunity for targeted delivery that may decrease unwanted toxicity. This review addresses the main parameters, variables, and barriers that control and affect oral PBC delivery. Moreover, this review discusses the potential role of biocompatible and biodegradable nanocarriers in improving the water solubility, chemical stability, bioavailability, and specificity/selectivity of PBCs.

Chitosan-Coated Niosomes Loaded with Ellagic Acid Present Antiaging Activity in a Skin Cell Line

The polyphenol compound ellagic acid (EA) extracted from pomegranate has potential bioactivity against different types of chronic diseases. Skin aging is a long-term physiological process caused by many environmental factors, the most important of which is exposure to sun ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV-induced chronic photodamage of the skin results in extrinsic aging. This study aimed to evaluate the photoprotective effects of EA on the human fibroblast skin cell line HFB4 and investigate its capacity to protect collagen from UV-induced deterioration. EA was encapsulated into chitosan-coated niosomes to reduce the skin aging effect of UV radiation in vitro. The tested formulations (niosomes loaded with EA and chitosan-coated niosomes loaded with EA) were characterized using transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, the in vitro release of EA was determined. The HFB4 cell line samples were split into five groups: control, UV, UV-EA, UV-NIO-EA, and UV-CS-NIO-EA. UV irradiation was applied to the cell line groups via a UV-emitting lamp for 1 h, and then cell viability was measured for each group. The expression of genes implicated in skin aging (Co1A1, TERT, Timp3, and MMP3) was also assessed to quantify the impact of the loaded EA. The findings showed that EA-loaded chitosan-coated niosomes improved cell survival, upregulated Col1A1, TERT, and Timp3 genes, and downregulated MMP3. Thus, nanoparticles encapsulating EA are potent antioxidants that can preserve collagen levels and slow down the aging process in human skin.

A pH-sensitive drug delivery using biodegradable succinoglycan/chitosan hydrogels with synergistic antibacterial activity

Since succinoglycan (SG) produced by Sinorhizobium meliloti is an anionic polysaccharide having substituents such as succinate and pyruvate groups, a polyelectrolyte composite hydrogel can be made together with chitosan (CS), a cationic polysaccharide. We fabricated polyelectrolyte SG/CS hydrogels using the semi-dissolving acidified sol-gel transfer (SD-A-SGT) method. The hydrogel showed optimized mechanical strength and thermal stability at an SG:CS weight ratio of 3:1. This optimized SG/CS hydrogel exhibited a high compressive stress of 497.67 kPa at 84.65 % strain and a high tensile strength of 9.14 kPa when stretched to 43.73 %. Additionally, this SG/CS hydrogel showed a pH-controlled drug release pattern for 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), where a change from pH 7.4 to 2.0 increased the release from 60 % to 94 %. In addition, this SG/CS hydrogel not only showed a cell viability of 97.57 %, but also showed synergistic antibacterial activity of 97.75 % and 96.76 % against S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. These results indicate the potential of this hydrogel as a biocompatible and biodegradable hydrogel material for wound healing, tissue engineering, and drug release systems.

Immunosuppressive Polymeric Nanoparticles Targeting Dendritic Cells Alleviate Lupus Disease in Fcgr2b-/- Mice by Mediating Antigen-Specific Immune Tolerance

Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent antigen-presenting cells that have multifaceted functions in the control of immune activation and tolerance. Hyperresponsiveness and altered tolerogenicity of DCs contribute to the development and pathogenesis of system lupus erythematosus (SLE); therefore, DC-targeted therapies aimed at inducing specific immune tolerance have become of great importance for the treatment of SLE. This study developed a new nanoparticle (NP) containing a biodegradable PDMAEMA-PLGA copolymer for target-oriented delivery to DCs in situ. PDMAEMA-PLGA NPs provided sustained drug release and exhibited immunosuppressive activity in FLT3L and GM-CSF-derived bone marrow in conventional DCs (BM-cDCs). PDMAEMA-PLGA NPs improved dexamethasone capability to convert wild-type and Fcgr2b^-/- BM-cDCs from an immunogenic to tolerogenic state, and BM-cDCs treated with dexamethasone-incorporated PDMAEMA-PLGA NPs (Dex-NPs) efficiently mediated regulatory T cell (Treg) expansion in vitro. Dex-NP therapy potentially alleviated lupus disease in Fcgr2b^-/- mice by mediating Foxp3⁺ Treg expansion in an antigen-specific manner. Our findings substantiate the superior efficacy of DC-targeted therapy using the PDMAEMA-PLGA NP delivery system and provide further support for clinical development as a potential therapy for SLE. Furthermore, PDMAEMA-PLGA NP may be a versatile platform for DC-targeted therapy to induce antigen-specific immune tolerance to unwanted immune responses that occur in autoimmune disease, allergy, and transplant rejection.

Polymerization-Induced Self-Assembly: An Emerging Tool for Generating Polymer-Based Biohybrid Nanostructures

The combination of biomolecules and synthetic polymers provides an easy access to utilize advantages from both the synthetic world and nature. This is not only important for the development of novel innovative materials, but also promotes the application of biomolecules in various fields including medicine, catalysis, and water treatment, etc. Due to the rapid progress in synthesis strategies for polymer nanomaterials and deepened understanding of biomolecules' structures and functions, the construction of advanced polymer-based biohybrid nanostructures (PBBNs) becomes prospective and attainable. Polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA), as an efficient and versatile technique in obtaining polymeric nano-objects at high concentrations, has demonstrated to be an attractive alternative to existing self-assembly procedures. Those advantages induce the focus on the fabrication of PBBNs via the PISA technique. In this review, current preparation strategies are illustrated based on the PISA technique for achieving various PBBNs, including grafting-from and grafting-through methods, as well as encapsulation of biomolecules during and subsequent to the PISA process. Finally, advantages and drawbacks are discussed in the fabrication of PBBNs via the PISA technique and obstacles are identified that need to be overcome to enable commercial application.

Nanomaterials for Skin Cancer Photoimmunotherapy

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, and its incidence continues to increase. It is divided into two main categories, melanoma and non-melanoma. Treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The relatively high mortality in melanoma and the existing recurrence rates, both for melanoma and non-melanoma, create the need for studying and developing new approaches for skin cancer management. Recent studies have focused on immunotherapy, photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and photoimmunotherapy. Photoimmunotherapy has gained much attention due to its excellent potential outcomes. It combines the advantages of photodynamic and/or photothermal therapy with a systemic immune response, making it ideal for metastatic cancer. This review critically discusses different new nanomaterials' properties and mechanisms of action for skin cancer photoimmunotherapy and the main results obtained in the field.

Advances in Antimicrobial Peptide Discovery via Machine Learning and Delivery via Nanotechnology

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been investigated for their potential use as an alternative to antibiotics due to the increased demand for new antimicrobial agents. AMPs, widely found in nature and obtained from microorganisms, have a broad range of antimicrobial protection, allowing them to be applied in the treatment of infections caused by various pathogenic microorganisms. Since these peptides are primarily cationic, they prefer anionic bacterial membranes due to electrostatic interactions. However, the applications of AMPs are currently limited owing to their hemolytic activity, poor bioavailability, degradation from proteolytic enzymes, and high-cost production. To overcome these limitations, nanotechnology has been used to improve AMP bioavailability, permeation across barriers, and/or protection against degradation. In addition, machine learning has been investigated due to its time-saving and cost-effective algorithms to predict AMPs. There are numerous databases available to train machine learning models. In this review, we focus on nanotechnology approaches for AMP delivery and advances in AMP design via machine learning. The AMP sources, classification, structures, antimicrobial mechanisms, their role in diseases, peptide engineering technologies, currently available databases, and machine learning techniques used to predict AMPs with minimal toxicity are discussed in detail.

Synthesis of corn bract cellulose-based Au3+ fluorescent probe and its application in composite membranes

To achieve real-time monitoring of Au³⁺, a corn bract cellulose-based fluorescent probe MAC-1 for was synthesized. MAC-1 showed good fluorescence properties in DMF-H₂O (1:9, v/v, pH = 7.4) solution, showed a fluorescence emission peak at 520 nm with quenching fluorescence properties for Au³⁺. The structure of MAC-1 was analyzed by SEM (Sample microstructure images), XRD (X-ray diffraction), FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), ¹H NMR, Elemental analysis, EDS, Mapping and TG (Thermogravimetry) were analyzed. The fluorescence properties of the probe were also characterized by UV spectrophotometer and fluorescence spectrophotometer. The results showed that the recognition of Au³⁺ by the probe MAC-1 exhibited high selectivity and high sensitivity. Moreover, it is highly resistant to interference and has a short response time, which can be rapidly responded within 1 min. In addition, to improve the practical application of the probe, the probe was prepared as a fluorescent composite film and the fluorescence effect shown by the fluorescent composite film is consistent with the fluorescence change of the probe MAC-1 itself. The fluorescent composite film also has excellent selectivity and good overall physical and mechanical properties. This study provides a meaningful reference for the detection of Au³⁺ and further expands the application field of agroforestry waste.

Potential cardioprotective and anticancer effects of carvedilol either free or as loaded nanoparticles with or without doxorubicin in solid Ehrlich carcinoma-bearing mice

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential cardioprotective and anti-cancer effects of carvedilol (CAR) either free or as loaded nano-formulated with or without doxorubicin (DOX) in solid Ehrlich carcinoma (SEC)-bearing mice. It focused on assessment of cardiac damage, drug resistance, apoptosis, oxidative stress status, angiogenesis and proliferation.

METHODS

CAR was loaded into poly-D,L lactic-co-glycolic acid)PLGA(or Niosomes. SEC was induced in female albino mice as an experimental model of breast cancer. Seventy-two mice were randomly divided into 9 equal groups (Normal control, Untreated-SEC, SEC + DOX, SEC + CAR-free, SEC + CAR-PLGA, SEC + CAR-Niosomes, SEC + DOX + CAR-free, SEC + DOX + CAR-PLGA and SEC + DOX + CAR-Niosomes). Tumor volume and survival rate were recorded. On day 28 from tumor inoculation, mice were sacrificed, and blood samples were collected for determination of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB). One part from tumor tissues was prepared for assessment of multidrug resistance protein-1 (MDR-1), caspase-3, reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA), while the other part was processed for histopathological examination and immunohistochemical expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Ki-67.

RESULTS

There was non-significant difference between CAR-free, CAR-PLGA and CAR-Niosomes as anticancer either alone or when combined with DOX. However, CAR-free demonstrated potential cardioprotective effects against cardiac damage mediated by cancer or DOX that have been enhanced using CAR-PLGA or CAR-Niosomes, but that of Niosomes outperformed them both.

CONCLUSION

CAR could be used as an adjuvant therapy with DOX, especially when nanoformualted with PLGA and even better with Niosomes, without compromising its cytotoxicity against cancer cells and preventing its cardiotoxic impacts.

Recent Development of Nanomaterials for Transdermal Drug Delivery

Nano-engineered medical products first appeared in the last decade. The current research in this area focuses on developing safe drugs with minimal adverse effects associated with the pharmacologically active cargo. Transdermal drug delivery, an alternative to oral administration, offers patient convenience, avoids first-pass hepatic metabolism, provides local targeting, and reduces effective drug toxicities. Nanomaterials provide alternatives to conventional transdermal drug delivery including patches, gels, sprays, and lotions, but it is crucial to understand the transport mechanisms involved. This article reviews the recent research trends in transdermal drug delivery and emphasizes the mechanisms and nano-formulations currently in vogue.

The Studies on Chitosan for Sustainable Development: A Bibliometric Analysis

Chitosan is a biocompatible polymer with vast applications in pharmacology, medicine, paper making, agriculture, and the food industry due to its low toxicity. Chitosan also plays an important role in the sustainable environment since chitosan is able to absorb greenhouse gases, harmful organic matter, and heavy ions. Therefore, this paper conducts a bibliometric analysis of chitosan for sustainable development using the Scopus database from 1976 to 2023. A performance analysis on the 8002 documents was performed with Harzing's Publish or Perish. Science mapping was conducted using VOSviewer. The annual publication on chitosan for sustainable development showed an upward trend in recent years as the annual publication peaked in 2022 with 1178 documents with most of the documents being articles and published in journals. Material science, chemistry, and engineering are tightly related subject areas. China had the highest publication of 1560 total documents while the United States had the most impactful publication with 55,019 total citations, 68.77 citations per document, 77.6 citations per cited document, h-index 110, and g-index of 211. India had the largest international collaboration with 572 total link strength. "International Journal of Biological Macromolecules", "Carbohydrate Polymers", and "Polymers" have been identified as the top three source titles that publish the most documents on chitosan for sustainable development. The emerging trends in chitosan on sustainable development focus on the application of chitosan as an antibacterial agent and biosorbent for contaminants, especially in water treatment.

Metal-based nanomaterials and nanocomposites as promising frontier in cancer chemotherapy

Cancer is a disease associated with complex pathology and one of the most prevalent and leading reasons for mortality in the world. Current chemotherapy has challenges with cytotoxicity, selectivity, multidrug resistance, and the formation of stemlike cells. Nanomaterials (NMs) have unique properties that make them useful for various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in cancer research. NMs can be engineered to target cancer cells for early detection and can deliver drugs directly to cancer cells, reducing side effects and improving treatment efficacy. Several of NMs can also be used for photothermal therapy to destroy cancer cells or enhance immune response to cancer by delivering immune-stimulating molecules to immune cells or modulating the tumor microenvironment. NMs are being modified to overcome issues, such as toxicity, lack of selectivity, increase drug capacity, and bioavailability, for a wide spectrum of cancer therapies. To improve targeted drug delivery using nano-carriers, noteworthy research is required. Several metal-based NMs have been studied with the expectation of finding a cure for cancer treatment. In this review, the current development and the potential of plant and metal-based NMs with their effects on size and shape have been discussed along with their more effective usage in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Controlled release of silica-coated insulin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles as a promising oral administration system

BACKGROUND

Oral insulin administration has recently become one of the most exciting research subjects. Different approaches have been carried out to get an effective oral insulin delivery system using nanotechnology. The development of a delivery system that overcomes the difficulties of oral insulin administration, achieving high stability and minimal side effects, is still an urgent need. Therefore, this study is considered one of the efforts to design a new prospective drug delivery nano-composite (silica-coated chitosan-dextran sulfate nanoparticles).

METHODS

Chitosan-dextran sulfate nanoparticles (CS-DS NPs) were prepared via a complex coacervation method and then coated with silica. Uncoated and silica-coated CS-DS NPs were physically characterized via different techniques. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) have been used to investigate the chemical elements, size, morphology, and surface properties of the prepared formulations. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to assess the thermal properties of formed nano-formulations. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy investigated the silica coat and chitosan interaction. The encapsulation efficiency was evaluated using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The insulin release profile of nano-formulations was performed with and without silica coat at two different pHs (5.5,7), nearly simulating the environment of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT).

RESULTS

The silica-coated CS-DS NPs revealed interesting physicochemical properties exemplified by suitable core particle size obtained by TEM images (145.31 ± 33.15 nm), hydrodynamic diameter (210 ± 21 nm), high stability indicated by their zeta potential value (-32 ± 3.2 mV), and adequate surface roughness assessed by AFM. The encapsulation efficiency of insulin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (ICN) was (66.5%) higher than that of insulin-chitosan complex nanoparticles (ICCN). The silica-coated ICN demonstrated a controlled insulin release profile at pHs (5.5 and 7) compared with uncoated ICN.

CONCLUSION

The silica-coated ICN can be an efficient candidate as a desired oral delivery system, overcoming the common obstacles of peptides and proteins delivery and achieving high stability and controlled release for further applications.

Advances in continuous polymer analysis in flow with application towards biopolymers

Biopolymers, polymers derived from renewable biomass sources, have gained increasing attention in recent years due to their potential to replace traditional petroleum-based polymers in a range of applications. Among the many advantages of biopolymers can be included their biocompatibility, excellent mechanical properties, and availability from renewable feedstock. However, the development of biopolymers has been limited by a lack of understanding of their properties and processing behaviours. Continuous analysis techniques have the potential to hasten progress in this area by providing real-time insights into the properties and processing of biopolymers. Significant research in polymer chemistry has focused on petroleum-derived polymers and has thus provided a wealth of synthetic and analytical methodologies which may be applied to the biopolymer field. Of particular note is the application of flow technology in polymer science and its implications for accelerating progress towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional petroleum-based polymers. In this mini review we have outlined several of the most prominent use cases for biopolymers along with the current state-of-the art in continuous analysis of polymers in flow, including defining and differentiating atline, inline, online and offline analysis. We have found several examples for continuous flow analysis which have direct application to the biopolymer field, and we demonstrate an atline continuous polymer analysis method using size exclusion chromatography.

Graphical abstract

Fatostatin induces ferroptosis through inhibition of the AKT/mTORC1/GPX4 signaling pathway in glioblastoma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and fatal primary malignant central nervous system tumor in adults. Although there are multiple treatments, the median survival of GBM patients is unsatisfactory, which has prompted us to continuously investigate new therapeutic strategies, including new drugs and drug delivery approaches. Ferroptosis, a kind of regulated cell death (RCD), has been shown to be dysregulated in various tumors, including GBM. Fatostatin, a specific inhibitor of sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs), is involved in lipid and cholesterol synthesis and has antitumor effects in a variety of tumors. However, the effect of fatostatin has not been explored in the field of ferroptosis or GBM. In our study, through transcriptome sequencing, in vivo experiments, and in vitro experiments, we found that fatostatin induces ferroptosis by inhibiting the AKT/mTORC1/GPX4 signaling pathway in glioblastoma. In addition, fatostatin inhibits cell proliferation and the EMT process through the AKT/mTORC1 signaling pathway. We also designed a p28-functionalized PLGA nanoparticle loaded with fatostatin, which could better cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and be targeted to GBM. Our research identified the unprecedented effects of fatostatin in GBM and presented a novel drug-targeted delivery vehicle capable of penetrating the BBB in GBM.

Some Nanocarrier's Properties and Chemical Interaction Mechanisms with Flavones

Flavones such as 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (tropoflavin), 5,6,7-trihydroxyflavone (baicalein), 3',4',5,6-tetrahydroxyflavone (luteolin), 3,3',4',5,5',7-hexahydroxyflavone (myricetin), 4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone (apigenin), and 5,7-dihydroxyflavone (chrysin) are important both for their presence in natural products and for their pharmacological applications. However, due to their chemical characteristics and their metabolic processes, they have low solubility and low bioavailability. Knowledge about the physicochemical properties of nanocarriers and the possible mechanisms of covalent and non-covalent interaction between nanoparticles (NPs) and drugs is essential for the design of nanocarriers to improve the bioavailability of molecules with pharmacological potential, such as tropoflavin, baicalein, luteolin, myricetin, apigenin, and chrysin. The parameters of characterization of some NPs of these flavones, such as size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency (EE), and % release/time, utilized in biomedical applications and the covalent and non-covalent interactions existing between the polymeric NPs and the drug were analyzed. Similarly, the presence of functional groups in the functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs), as well as the effect of pH on the % adsorption of flavonoids on functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT-COOH), were analyzed. Non-covalent interaction mechanisms between polymeric NPs and flavones, and covalent interaction mechanisms that could exist between the NPs and the amino and hydroxyl functional groups, are proposed.

Use of acidic nanoparticles to rescue macrophage lysosomal dysfunction in atherosclerosis

Dysfunction in the macrophage lysosomal system including reduced acidity and diminished degradative capacity is a hallmark of atherosclerosis, leading to blunted clearance of excess cellular debris and lipids in plaques and contributing to lesion progression. Devising strategies to rescue this macrophage lysosomal dysfunction is a novel therapeutic measure. Nanoparticles have emerged as an effective platform to both target specific tissues and serve as drug delivery vehicles. In most cases, administered nanoparticles are taken up non-selectively by the mononuclear phagocyte system including monocytes/macrophages leading to the undesirable degradation of cargo in lysosomes. We took advantage of this default route to target macrophage lysosomes to rectify their acidity in disease states such as atherosclerosis. Herein, we develop and test two commonly used acidic nanoparticles, poly-lactide-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and polylactic acid (PLA), both in vitro and in vivo. Our results in cultured macrophages indicate that the PLGA-based nanoparticles are the most effective at trafficking to and enhancing acidification of lysosomes. PLGA nanoparticles also provide functional benefits including enhanced lysosomal degradation, promotion of macroautophagy/autophagy and protein aggregate removal, and reduced apoptosis and inflammasome activation. We demonstrate the utility of this system in vivo, showing nanoparticle accumulation in, and lysosomal acidification of, macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques. Long-term administration of PLGA nanoparticles results in significant reductions in surrogates of plaque complexity with reduced apoptosis, necrotic core formation, and cytotoxic protein aggregates and increased fibrous cap formation. Taken together, our data support the use of acidic nanoparticles to rescue macrophage lysosomal dysfunction in the treatment of atherosclerosis.Abbreviations: BCA: brachiocephalic arteries; FACS: fluorescence activated cell sorting; FITC: fluorescein-5-isothiocyanatel; IL1B: interleukin 1 beta; LAMP: lysosomal associated membrane protein; LIPA/LAL: lipase A, lysosomal acid type; LSDs: lysosomal storage disorders; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MFI: mean fluorescence intensity; MPS: mononuclear phagocyte system; PEGHDE: polyethylene glycol hexadecyl ether; PLA: polylactic acid; PLGA: poly-lactide-co-glycolic acid; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1.

Poly(lactic acid)/β-cyclodextrin based nanoparticles bearing ruthenium(II)-arene naproxen complex: preparation and characterisation. Analytical validation for metal determination by microwave-induced plasma optical emission spectrometry

The objectives of this work are to develop nanocarrier systems for the Ru(II)-p-cymene naproxen antitumor metallodrug, [Ru(η⁶-p-cymene)(npx)Cl] or Rupcy, based on polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) composed by the biodegradable poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and the hydrophilic polymerised β-cyclodextrin (PolyCD); to validate an analytical method for determination of Ru incorporated into the metallodrug loaded-NPs. The PolyCD was prepared by single step condensation and polymerisation reaction and incorporated as a polymer blend during the fabrication of PLA/PolyCD blends NPs and also as a core/shell structure built by adsorption of the PolyCD onto the surface of PLA NPs to give PLA(core)/PolyCD(shell) NPs. Three different loaded-systems incorporating the metallodrug (Rupcy-PLA NPs (1), Rupcy-PLA/PolyCD blends (2), and Rupcy-PLA(core)/PolyCD(shell) NPs (3)) were prepared by nanoprecipitation. The characterisation was performed by Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight, Fourier-Transform Infra-red and UV-VIS Electronic Absorption Spectroscopies, Thermogravimetric Analysis, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Dynamic Light Scattering, and Electrophoretic Light Scattering. Ru was determined by Microwave Induced Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (MIP-OES) with validation of the method. The metallodrug entrapment efficiency was around 90% (w/w) and drug loading was at 3-4% (w/w). The characterised metallodrug-loaded systems exhibited monomodal size distributions and appropriate hydrodynamic diameters [218.3 ± 13.5 (1), 205.4 ± 14.4 (2), 231.5 ± 22.0 (3) nm] and zeta potential values [-31.5 ± 2.2 (1), -26.1 ± 4.5 (2), -28.8 ± 6.1 (3) mV]. The validation of the MIP-OES method by evaluating selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy, and limits of detection and quantification succeeded. The NPs parameters are compatible with colloidally stable systems. The MIP-OES method showed to be simple, reliable, and feasible to quantify indirectly the amount of the metallodrug-loaded into the PLA NPs.

Interaction of gentamicin and gentamicin-AOT with poly-(lactide-co-glycolate) in a drug delivery system - density functional theory calculations and molecular dynamics simulation

Gentamicin is used to treat brucellosis, an infectious disease caused by the Brucella species but the drug faces several issues such as low efficacy, instability, low solubility, and toxicity. It also has a very short half-life, therefore, requiring frequent dosing. Consequently, several other antibiotics are also being used for the treatment of brucellosis as a single dose as well as in combination with other antibiotics but none of these therapies are satisfactory. Nanoparticles in particular polymer-based ones utilizing polymers that are biodegradable and biocompatible for instance PLGA are a method of choice to overcome such drug delivery issues and enable potential targeted delivery. The current study focuses on the evaluation of the structural and dynamical properties of a drug-polymer system consisting of gentamicin drug and PLGA polymer nanoparticles in the water representing a targeted drug delivery system for the treatment of brucellosis. For this purpose, all-atom molecular dynamics simulations were carried out on the drug-polymer systems in the absence and presence of the surfactant bis(2-Ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT) to determine the structural and dynamical properties as well as the effect of the surfactant on these properties. We also investigated systems in which the polymer constituents were in the form of monomeric units toward decoupling the primary interactions of the monomer units and polymer effects. The simulation results explain the nature of the interactions between the drug and the polymer as well as transport properties in terms of drug diffusion coefficients, which characterize the molecular behavior of gentamicin-polymer nanoparticles for use in brucellosis.

Intranasal Polymeric and Lipid-Based Nanocarriers for CNS Drug Delivery

Nanomedicine is currently focused on the design and development of nanocarriers that enhance drug delivery to the brain to address unmet clinical needs for treating neuropsychiatric disorders and neurological diseases. Polymer and lipid-based drug carriers are advantageous for delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) due to their safety profiles, drug-loading capacity, and controlled-release properties. Polymer and lipid-based nanoparticles (NPs) are reported to penetrate the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and have been extensively assessed in in vitro and animal models of glioblastoma, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative disease. Since approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of intranasal esketamine for treatment of major depressive disorder, intranasal administration has emerged as an attractive route to bypass the BBB for drug delivery to the CNS. NPs can be specifically designed for intranasal administration by tailoring their size and coating with mucoadhesive agents or other moieties that promote transport across the nasal mucosa. In this review, unique characteristics of polymeric and lipid-based nanocarriers desirable for drug delivery to the brain are explored in addition to their potential for drug repurposing for the treatment of CNS disorders. Progress in intranasal drug delivery using polymeric and lipid-based nanostructures for the development of treatments of various neurological diseases are also described.

Polymeric Nanoparticles for Delivery of Natural Bioactive Agents: Recent Advances and Challenges

In the last few decades, several natural bioactive agents have been widely utilized in the treatment and prevention of many diseases owing to their unique and versatile therapeutic effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and neuroprotective action. However, their poor aqueous solubility, poor bioavailability, low GIT stability, extensive metabolism as well as short duration of action are the most shortfalls hampering their biomedical/pharmaceutical applications. Different drug delivery platforms have developed in this regard, and a captivating tool of this has been the fabrication of nanocarriers. In particular, polymeric nanoparticles were reported to offer proficient delivery of various natural bioactive agents with good entrapment potential and stability, an efficiently controlled release, improved bioavailability, and fascinating therapeutic efficacy. In addition, surface decoration and polymer functionalization have opened the door to improving the characteristics of polymeric nanoparticles and alleviating the reported toxicity. Herein, a review of the state of knowledge on polymeric nanoparticles loaded with natural bioactive agents is presented. The review focuses on frequently used polymeric materials and their corresponding methods of fabrication, the needs of such systems for natural bioactive agents, polymeric nanoparticles loaded with natural bioactive agents in the literature, and the potential role of polymer functionalization, hybrid systems, and stimuli-responsive systems in overcoming most of the system drawbacks. This exploration may offer a thorough idea of viewing the polymeric nanoparticles as a potential candidate for the delivery of natural bioactive agents as well as the challenges and the combating tools used to overcome any hurdles.

Synthesis of Magnetic Iron Oxide-Incorporated Cellulose Composite Particles: An Investigation on Antioxidant Properties and Drug Delivery Applications

In recent years, polymer-supported magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MIO-NPs) have gained a lot of attention in biomedical and healthcare applications due to their unique magnetic properties, low toxicity, cost-effectiveness, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. In this study, waste tissue papers (WTP) and sugarcane bagasse (SCB) were utilized to prepare magnetic iron oxide (MIO)-incorporated WTP/MIO and SCB/MIO nanocomposite particles (NCPs) based on in situ co-precipitation methods, and they were characterized using advanced spectroscopic techniques. In addition, their anti-oxidant and drug-delivery properties were investigated. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses revealed that the shapes of the MIO-NPs, SCB/MIO-NCPs, and WTP/MIO-NCPs were agglomerated and irregularly spherical with a crystallite size of 12.38 nm, 10.85 nm, and 11.47 nm, respectively. Vibrational sample magnetometry (VSM) analysis showed that both the NPs and the NCPs were paramagnetic. The free radical scavenging assay ascertained that the WTP/MIO-NCPs, SCB/MIO-NCPs, and MIO-NPs exhibited almost negligible antioxidant activity in comparison to ascorbic acid. The swelling capacities of the SCB/MIO-NCPs and WTP/MIO-NCPs were 155.0% and 159.5%, respectively, which were much higher than the swelling efficiencies of cellulose-SCB (58.3%) and cellulose-WTP (61.6%). The order of metronidazole drug loading after 3 days was: cellulose-SCB < cellulose-WTP < MIO-NPs < SCB/MIO-NCPs < WTP/MIO-NCPs, whereas the sequence of the drug-releasing rate after 240 min was: WTP/MIO-NCPs < SCB/MIO-NCPs < MIO-NPs < cellulose-WTP < cellulose-SCB. Overall, the results of this study showed that the incorporation of MIO-NPs in the cellulose matrix increased the swelling capacity, drug-loading capacity, and drug-releasing time. Therefore, cellulose/MIO-NCPs obtained from waste materials such as SCB and WTP can be used as a potential vehicle for medical applications, especially in a metronidazole drug delivery system.

Nanotechnological advancements in the brain tumor therapy: a novel approach

Nanotechnological advancements over the past few years have led to the development of newer treatment strategies in brain cancer therapy which leads to the establishment of nano oncology. Nanostructures with high specificity, are best suitable to penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Their desired physicochemical properties, such as small sizes, shape, higher surface area to volume ratio, distinctive structural features, and the possibility to attach various substances on their surface transform them into potential transport carriers able to cross various cellular and tissue barriers, including the BBB. The review emphasizes nanotechnology-based treatment strategies for the exploration of brain tumors and highlights the current progress of different nanomaterials for the effective delivery of drugs for brain tumor therapy.

Encapsulation and Delivery of an Osteosarcoma Stem Cell Active Gallium(III)-Diflunisal Complex Using Polymeric Micelles

Here we report the encapsulation of an osteosarcoma stem cell (OSC) potent gallium(III)-diflunisal complex 1 into polymeric nanoparticles, and its delivery into osteosarcoma cells. At the optimum feed (20 %, 1 NP²⁰ ), nanoparticle encapsulation of 1 enhances potency towards bulk osteosarcoma cells and OSCs (cultured in monolayer and three-dimensional systems). Strikingly, the nanoparticle formulation exhibits up to 5645-fold greater potency towards OSCs than frontline anti-osteosarcoma drugs, doxorubicin and cisplatin. The nanoparticle formulation evokes a similar mechanism of action as the payload, which bodes well for future translation. Specifically, the nanoparticle formulation induces nuclear DNA damage, cyclooxygenase-2 downregulation, and caspase-dependent apoptosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that polymeric nanoparticles can be used to effectively deliver an OSC-active metal complex into osteosarcoma cells.

Improving antimicrobial activity against endodontic biofilm after exposure to blue light-activated novel curcumin nanoparticle

New therapies involving natural products and nanobiotechnology open additional perspectives to reduce endodontic infections. Curcumin is a natural polyphenol extracted from the dry rhizome of curcuma long Linn with therapeutic properties for application in nanobiotechnology and as a photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy. This study aimed to synthesize a novel polymeric nanoparticle of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) loaded with curcumin (NP+Cur), and evaluate its antimicrobial activity against endodontic biofilms. Additionally, its biocompatibility using oral keratinocytes was assessed. The polymeric NP+Cur was prepared by the nanoprecipitation method. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were calculated for the three endodontic bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus oralis and Actinomyces viscosus). Antibacterial activity of NP+Cur against single- and multispecies biofilm pre-formed on the botton 24-well plate and into dentin tubules of bovine teeth were evaluated by colony forming units and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The pre-irradiation time was 5 min followed by exposure to blue light-emitting diode at 450 nm for the photodynamic treatment. Cell viability using oral keratinocytes was assessed by Alamar Blue assay. MIC and MBC showed antibacterial activity of NP+Cur against endodontic bacteria. A treatment of pre-formed biofilms of endodontic bacteria with NP+Cur also significantly decreased bacterial viability. The concentration of 325 μg/mL of photoactivated NP+Cur was the one that most reduced the viability of the endodontic bacteria evaluated. Regarding biocompatibility, NP+Cur 325 μg/mL and pure nanoparticles showed a cell viability greater than 80%. The novel polymeric nanoparticles loaded with curcumin may be a promising adjunct use to treatment of endodontic infections.

A Recent Advancement in Nanotechnology Approaches for the Treatment of Cervical Cancer

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of female death, with a mortality rate of over 200,000 per year in developing countries. Despite a decrease in cervical cancer occurrences in developed countries over the last decade, the frequency of the disease in developing nations continues to rise at an alarming rate, particularly when it is linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). With just a few highly invasive conventional therapies available, there is a clear need for novel treatment options such as nanotechnology-based chemotherapeutic drug delivery.

METHODS

Traditional anticancer therapy is limited by poor drug potency, non-specificity, unwanted side effects, and the development of multiple drug resistance (MDR), leading to a decrease in long-term anticancer therapeutic efficacy. An ideal cancer therapy requires a personalized and specialized medication delivery method capable of eradicating even the last cancer cell responsible for disease recurrence.

RESULTS

Nanotechnology provides effective drug delivery mechanisms, allowing it to serve both therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. Nanotechnology-based formulations are widely used to accurately target the target organ, maintain drug load bioactivity, preferentially accumulate the drug at the target location, and reduce cytotoxicity.

CONCLUSION

The key benefits of this drug delivery are that it improves pharmacological activity, solubility, and bioavailability and reduces toxicity in the target tissue by targeting ligands, allowing for new innovative treatment methods in an area that is desperately required. The goal of this review is to highlight possible research on nanotechnologybased delivery systems for cancer detection and treatment.

A Systematic Overview of Eudragit® Based Copolymer for Smart Healthcare

Eudragit, synthesized by radical polymerization, is used for enteric coating, precise temporal release, and targeting the entire gastrointestinal system. Evonik Healthcare Germany offers different grades of Eudragit. The ratio of methacrylic acid to its methacrylate-based monomers used in the polymerization reaction defines the final product's characteristics and consequently its potential range of applications. Since 1953, these polymers have been made to use in a wide range of healthcare applications around the world. In this review, we reviewed the "known of knowns and known of unknowns" about Eudragit, from molecule to material design, its characterization, and its applications in healthcare.

A Review on Recent Advances in Mannose-Functionalized Targeted Nanocarrier Delivery Systems in Cancer and Infective Therapeutics

Unmodified nanocarriers used in the chemotherapy of cancers and various infectious diseases exhibit prolonged blood circulation time, prevent enzymatic degradation and increase chemical stability of encapsulated therapeutics. However, off-target effect and lack of specificity associated with unmodified nanoparticles (NPs) limit their applications in the health care system. Mannose (Man) receptors with significant overexpression on antigen-presenting cells and macrophages are among the most admired targets for cancer and anti-infective therapeutics. Therefore, development of Man functionalized nanocarriers targeting Man receptors, for target specific drug delivery in the chemotherapy have been extensively studied. Present review expounds diverse Man-conjugated NPs with their potential for targeted drug delivery, improved biodistribution profiles and localization. Additionally, the review gives detailed account of the interactions of mannosylated NPs with various biological systems and their characterization not discussed in earlier published reports is discussed.

Production of nanostructured systems: Main and innovative techniques

In the constant search for the development of more-specific and more-selective drugs, especially with regard to the challenge of encapsulating hydrophilic molecules, polymer nanotechnologies are remarkable for their biocompatible and biodegradable properties. The most-used nanoencapsulation methods consist of emulsification procedures, where emulsified droplets of a given polymer and drug solidify into nanoparticles after solvent extraction from the polymeric phase. This review introduces conventional emulsification methods but also highlights new emulsification technologies such as microfluidics, membrane emulsification and other techniques, including spray drying, inkjet printing and electrospraying.