RNA targeted therapeutics for hematologic malignancies

RNA therapeutics for the treatment of blood disorders

Blood disorders are defined as diseases related to the structure, function, and formation of blood cells. These diseases lead to increased years of life loss, reduced quality of life, and increased financial burden for social security systems around the world. Common blood disorder treatments such as using chemical drugs, organ transplants, or stem cell therapy have not yet approached the best goals, and treatment costs are also very high. RNA with a research history dating back several decades has emerged as a potential method to treat hematological diseases. A number of clinical trials have been conducted to pave the way for the use of RNA molecules to cure blood disorders. This novel approach takes advantage of regulatory mechanisms and the versatility of RNA-based oligonucleotides to target genes and cellular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of specific diseases. Despite positive results, currently, there is no RNA drug to treat blood-related diseases approved or marketed. Before the clinical adoption of RNA-based therapies, challenges such as safe delivery of RNA molecules to the target site and off-target effects of injected RNA in the body need to be addressed. In brief, RNA-based therapies open novel avenues for the treatment of hematological diseases, and clinical trials for approval and practical use of RNA-targeted are crucial.

Exploring the possible targeting strategies of liposomes against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Multi antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections are on the rise due to the overuse of antibiotics. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the pathogens listed under the category of serious threats where vancomycin remains the mainstay treatment despite the availability of various antibacterial agents. Recently, decreased susceptibility to vancomycin from clinical isolates of MRSA has been reported and has drawn worldwide attention as it is often difficult to overcome and leads to increased medical costs, mortality, and longer hospital stays. Development of antibiotic delivery systems is often necessary to improve bioavailability and biodistribution, in order to reduce antibiotic resistance and increase the lifespan of antibiotics. Liposome entrapment has been used as a method to allow higher drug dosing apart from reducing toxicity associated with drugs. The surface of the liposomes can also be designed and enhanced with drug-release properties, active targeting, and stealth effects to prevent recognition by the mononuclear phagocyte system, thus enhancing its circulation time. The present review aimed to highlight the possible targeting strategies of liposomes against MRSA bacteremia systemically while investigating the magnitude of this effect on the minimum inhibitory concentration level.

Toxicological considerations when creating nanoparticle-based drugs and drug delivery systems

INTRODUCTION

The biggest challenge faced by the scientific community involved in drug development is to deliver safe and effective dosage of drugs without causing systemic toxicity. Therefore, novel nano-based delivery vehicles specifically targeting tumors but not normal tissues are urgently needed.

AREAS COVERED

Nanoparticles have beneficial aspects but can be toxic themselves, which is always a concern for any drug or delivery agent. This review examines and details the toxicological aspects that should be considered when planning to use nanoparticles in animals or in man for drug delivery or imaging. Subjects discussed in this review include i) overviews of applications of various nanoparticles for drug delivery and imaging; ii) toxicological aspects to consider when selecting particular nanoparticles for use in various applications in animals or man; iii) hurdles faced when examining nanoparticle toxicity; and iv) current approaches for assessing nanoparticle toxicity.

EXPERT OPINION

Nanotechnology has significant potential for advancing therapeutic efficacy and imaging in cancer; however, these agents can be toxic. Therefore, toxicity needs to be considered when selecting nanoparticles for a particular application. Methods for assessing nanoparticle toxicity need to be improved and standardized across all nanotechnology platforms in order to speed up the application of nanoparticle use in humans.