Iron oxide nanoparticles for therapeutic applications

Effects of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONS) testicular injection on Leydig cell function and sperm production in a murine model

In the domain of medical advancement, nanotechnology plays a pivotal role, especially in the synthesis of biocompatible materials for therapeutic use. Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs), known for their magnetic properties and low toxicity, stand at the forefront of this innovation. This study explored the reproductive toxicological effects of Sodium Citrate-functionalized SPIONs (Cit_SPIONs) in adult male mice, an area of research that holds significant potential yet remains largely unknown. Our findings reveal that Cit_SPIONs induce notable morphological changes in interstitial cells and the seminiferous epithelium when introduced via intratesticular injection. This observation is critical in understanding the interactions of nanomaterials within reproductive biological systems. A striking feature of this study is the rapid localization of Cit_SPIONs in Leydig cells post-injection, a factor that appears to be closely linked with the observed decrease in steroidogenic activity and testosterone levels. This data suggests a possible application in developing nanostructured therapies targeting androgen-related processes. Over 56 days, these nanoparticles exhibited remarkable biological distribution in testis parenchyma, infiltrating various cells within the tubular and intertubular compartments. While the duration of spermatogenesis remained unchanged, there were many Tunel-positive germ cells, a notable reduction in daily sperm production, and reduced progressive sperm motility in the treated group. These insights not only shed light on the intricate mechanisms of Cit_SPIONs interaction with the male reproductive system but also highlight the potential of nanotechnology in developing advanced biomedical applications.

Advances in stabilization of metallic nanoparticle with biosurfactants- a review on current trends

Recently, research based on new biomaterials for stabilizing metallic nanoparticles has increased due to their greater environmental friendliness and lower health risk. Their stability is often a critical factor influencing their performance and shelf life. Nowadays, the use of biosurfactants is gaining interest due to their sustainable advantages. Biosurfactants are used for various commercial and industrial applications such as food processing, therapeutic applications, agriculture, etc. Biosurfactants create stable coatings surrounding nanoparticles to stop agglomeration and provide long-term stability. The present review study describes a collection of important scientific works on stabilization and capping of metallic nanoparticles as biosurfactants. This review also provides a comprehensive overview of the intrinsic properties and environmental aspects of metal nanoparticles coated with biosurfactants. In addition, future methods and potential solutions for biosurfactant-mediated stabilization in nanoparticle synthesis are also highlighted. The objective of this study is to ensure that the stabilized nanoparticles exhibit biocompatible properties, making them suitable for applications in medicine and biotechnology.

Targeting ferroptosis for leukemia therapy: exploring novel strategies from its mechanisms and role in leukemia based on nanotechnology

The latest findings in iron metabolism and the newly uncovered process of ferroptosis have paved the way for new potential strategies in anti-leukemia treatments. In the current project, we reviewed and summarized the current role of nanomedicine in the treatment and diagnosis of leukemia through a comparison made between traditional approaches applied in the treatment and diagnosis of leukemia via the existing investigations about the ferroptosis molecular mechanisms involved in various anti-tumor treatments. The application of nanotechnology and other novel technologies may provide a new direction in ferroptosis-driven leukemia therapies. The article explores the potential of targeting ferroptosis, a new form of regulated cell death, as a new therapeutic strategy for leukemia. It discusses the mechanisms of ferroptosis and its role in leukemia and how nanotechnology can enhance the delivery and efficacy of ferroptosis-inducing agents. The article not only highlights the promise of ferroptosis-targeted therapies and nanotechnology in revolutionizing leukemia treatment, but also calls for further research to overcome challenges and fully realize the clinical potential of this innovative approach. Finally, it discusses the challenges and opportunities in clinical applications of ferroptosis.

Iron oxide nanoparticles synthesized usingMentha spicataextract and evaluation of its antibacterial, cytotoxicity and antimigratory potential on highly metastatic human breast cells

Iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3NPs) were synthesized utilizingMentha spicatasourced from Cyprus as a stabilizing agent. The study delved into assessing the antimicrobial, cytotoxic, anti-proliferative, and anti-migratory potential of Fe2O3 NPs through disc diffusion, trypan blue, and 3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, respectively. Characterization of the synthesized Fe2O3 NPs was conducted using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-vis spectroscopy (UV-vis), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The FTIR, XRD, and SEM-EDX spectra confirmed the successful formation of Fe2O3 NPs. The analysis of UV-vis spectra indicates an absorption peak at 302 nm, thereby confirming both the successful synthesis and remarkable stability of the nanoparticles. The nanoparticles exhibited uniform spherical morphology and contained Fe, O, and N, indicating the synthesis of Fe2O3NPs. Additionally, the Fe2O3NPs formed through biosynthesis demonstrated antimicrobial capabilities againstEscherichia coliandBacillus cereus. The significant anti-migratory potential on MDA-MB 231 human breast cancer cells was observed with lower concentrations of the biosynthesized Fe2O3NPs, and higher concentrations revealed cytotoxic effects on the cells with an IC50of 95.7μg/ml. Stable Fe2O3NPs were synthesized usingMentha spicataaqueous extract, and it revealed antimicrobial activity onE. coliandB. cereus, cytotoxic, anti-proliferative and anti-migratory effect on highly metastatic human breast cancer cell lines.

Iron-carbohydrate complexes treating iron anaemia: Understanding the nano-structure and interactions with proteins through orthogonal characterisation

Intravenous (IV) iron-carbohydrate complexes are widely used nanoparticles (NPs) to treat iron deficiency anaemia, often associated with medical conditions such as chronic kidney disease, heart failure and various inflammatory conditions. Even though a plethora of physicochemical characterisation data and clinical studies are available for these products, evidence-based correlation between physicochemical properties of iron-carbohydrate complexes and clinical outcome has not fully been elucidated yet. Studies on other metal oxide NPs suggest that early interactions between NPs and blood upon IV injection are key to understanding how differences in physicochemical characteristics of iron-carbohydrate complexes cause variance in clinical outcomes. We therefore investigated the core-ligand structure of two clinically relevant iron-carbohydrate complexes, iron sucrose (IS) and ferric carboxymaltose (FCM), and their interactions with two structurally different human plasma proteins, human serum albumin (HSA) and fibrinogen, using a combination of cryo-scanning transmission electron microscopy (cryo-STEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) and small-angle neutron scattering (SANS). Using this orthogonal approach, we defined the nano-structure, individual building blocks and surface morphology for IS and FCM. Importantly, we revealed significant differences in the surface morphology of the iron-carbohydrate complexes. FCM shows a localised carbohydrate shell around its core, in contrast to IS, which is characterised by a diffuse and dynamic layer of carbohydrate ligand surrounding its core. We hypothesised that such differences in carbohydrate morphology determine the interaction between iron-carbohydrate complexes and proteins and therefore investigated the NPs in the presence of HSA and fibrinogen. Intriguingly, IS showed significant interaction with HSA and fibrinogen, forming NP-protein clusters, while FCM only showed significant interaction with fibrinogen. We postulate that these differences could influence bio-response of the two formulations and their clinical outcome. In conclusion, our study provides orthogonal characterisation of two clinically relevant iron-carbohydrate complexes and first hints at their interaction behaviour with proteins in the human bloodstream, setting a prerequisite towards complete understanding of the correlation between physicochemical properties and clinical outcome.

SPIONs: Superparamagnetic iron oxide-based nanoparticles for the delivery of microRNAi-therapeutics in cancer

Non-coding RNA (ncRNA)-based therapeutics that induce RNA interference (RNAi), such as microRNAs (miRNAs), have drawn considerable attention as a novel class of targeted cancer therapeutics because of their capacity to specifically target oncogenes/protooncogenes that regulate key signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis, tumor growth and progression, metastasis, cell survival, proliferation, angiogenesis, and drug resistance. However, clinical translation of miRNA-based therapeutics, in particular, has been challenging due to the ineffective delivery of ncRNA molecules into tumors and their uptake into cancer cells. Recently, superparamagnetic iron oxide-based nanoparticles (SPIONs) have emerged as highly effective and efficient for the delivery of therapeutic RNAs to malignant tissues, as well as theranostic (therapy and diagnostic) applications, due to their excellent biocompatibility, magnetic responsiveness, broad functional surface modification, safety, and biodistribution profiles. This review highlights recent advances in the use of SPIONs for the delivery of ncRNA-based therapeutics with an emphasis on their synthesis and coating strategies. Moreover, the advantages and current limitations of SPIONs and their future perspectives are discussed.

Cytotoxicity of Laser-Synthesized Nanoparticles of Elemental Bismuth

High X-ray absorption combined with photothermal properties make bismuth nanoparticles (Bi NP) a promising agent for multimodal cancer theranostics. However, the synthesis of Bi NP by the "classical" chemical methods has numerous limitations, including potential toxicity of the produced nanomaterials. Here we studied in vitro toxicity of laser-synthesized Bi NP coated with Pluronic F-127 on mouse fibroblast cell line L929. The survival of L929 cells decreased linearly with increasing the concentration of Bi NP in a concentration range of 3-500 μg/ml; the LC50 value was 57 μg/ml. The unique combination of functional properties and moderate toxicity of the laser-synthesized Bi NP makes them a new promising platform for sensitization of multimodal cancer theranostics.

Size-Related Pathway Flux Analysis of Ultrasmall Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Macrophage Cell RAW264.7 for Safety Evaluation

The endocytosis, intracellular transport, and exocytosis of different-sized nanoparticles were reported to greatly affect their efficacy and biosafety. The quantitation of endocytosis and exocytosis as well as subcellular distribution of nanoparticles might be an effective approach based on transport pathway flux analysis. Thus, the key parameters that could present the effects of three different-sized ultrasmall iron oxide nanoparticles (USIONPs) were systematically investigated in RAW264.7 cells. The endocytosis and exocytosis of USIONPs were related to their sizes; 15.4 nm of S2 could be quickly and more internalized and excreted in comparison to S1 (7.8 nm) and S3 (30.7 nm). In RAW264.7 cells, USIONPs were observed in endosomes, lysosomes, the Golgi apparatus, and autophagosomes via a transmission electron microscope. Based on flux analysis of intracellular transport pathways of USIONPs, it was found that 43% of S1, 40% of S2, and 44% of S3 were individually transported extracellularly through the Golgi apparatus-involved middle-fast pathway, while 24% of S1, 23% of S2, and 26% of S3 were transported through the fast recycling endosomal pathway, and the residues were transported through the slower speed lysosomal pathway. USIONPs might be transported via size-related endocytosis and exocytosis pathways. The pathway flux could be calculated on the basis of disturbance analysis of special transporters as well as their coding genes. Because there were rate differences among these transport pathways, this pathway flux could anticipate the intracellular remaining time and distribution of different-sized nanoparticles, the function exertion, and side effects of nanomaterials. The size of the nanomaterials could be optimized for improving functions and safety.

Green synthesis of silver and iron oxide nanoparticles mediated photothermal effects on Blastocystis hominis

The evolution of parasite resistance to antiparasitic agents has become a serious health issue indicating a critical and pressing need to develop new therapeutics that can conquer drug resistance. Nanoparticles are novel, promising emerging drug carriers that have demonstrated efficiency in treating many parasitic diseases. Lately, attention has been drawn to a broad-spectrum nanoparticle capable of converting absorbed light into heat via the photothermal effect phenomenon. The present study is the first to assess the effect of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) and iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) as sole agents and with the combined action of the light-emitting diode (LED) on Blastocystis hominins (B. hominis) in vitro. Initially, the aqueous synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, zeta potential, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The anti-blastocyst efficiency of these NPs was tested separately in dark conditions. As these NPs have a wide absorption spectrum in the visible regions, they were also excited by a continuous wave LED of wavelength band (400-700 nm) to test the photothermal effect. The sensitivity of B. hominis cysts was evaluated using scanning laser confocal microscopy whereas the live and dead cells were accurately segmented based on superpixels and the k-mean clustering algorithm. Our findings showed that this excitation led to hyperthermia that induced a significant reduction in the number of cysts treated with photothermally active NPs. The results of this study elucidate the potential role of photothermally active NPs as an effective anti-blastocystis agent. By using this approach, new therapeutic antiparasitic agents can be developed.

Recent trends in preparation and biomedical applications of iron oxide nanoparticles

The iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), possessing both magnetic behavior and semiconductor property, have been extensively used in multifunctional biomedical fields due to their biocompatible, biodegradable and low toxicity, such as anticancer, antibacterial, cell labelling activities. Nevertheless, there are few IONPs in clinical use at present. Some IONPs approved for clinical use have been withdrawn due to insufficient understanding of its biomedical applications. Therefore, a systematic summary of IONPs' preparation and biomedical applications is crucial for the next step of entering clinical practice from experimental stage. This review summarized the existing research in the past decade on the biological interaction of IONPs with animal/cells models, and their clinical applications in human. This review aims to provide cutting-edge knowledge involved with IONPs' biological effects in vivo and in vitro, and improve their smarter design and application in biomedical research and clinic trials.

Nanomaterials Solutions for Contraception: Concerns, Advances, and Prospects

Preventing unintentional pregnancy is one of the goals of a global public health policy to minimize effects on individuals, families, and society. Various contraceptive formulations with high effectiveness and acceptance, including intrauterine devices, hormonal patches for females, and condoms and vasectomy for males, have been developed and adopted over the last decades. However, distinct breakthroughs of contraceptive techniques have not yet been achieved, while the associated long-term adverse effects are insurmountable, such as endocrine system disorder along with hormone administration, invasive ligation, and slowly restored fertility after removal of intrauterine devices. Spurred by developments of nanomaterials and bionanotechnologies, advanced contraceptives could be fulfilled via nanomaterial solutions with much safer and more controllable and effective approaches to meet various and specific needs for women and men at different reproductive stages. Nanomedicine techniques have been extended to develop contraceptive methods, such as the targeted drug delivery and controlled release of hormone using nanocarriers for females and physical stimulation assisted vasectomy using functional nanomaterials via photothermal treatment or magnetic hyperthermia for males. Nanomaterial solutions for advanced contraceptives offer significantly improved biosafety, noninvasive administration, and controllable reversibility. This review summarizes the nanomaterial solutions to female and male contraceptives including the working mechanisms, clinical concerns, and their merits and demerits. This work also reviewed the nanomaterials that have been adopted in contraceptive applications. In addition, we further discuss safety considerations and future perspectives of nanomaterials in nanostrategy development for next-generation contraceptives. We expect that nanomaterials would potentially replace conventional materials for contraception in the near future.

Recent advances in nanoparticle applications in respiratory disorders: a review

Various nanoparticles are used in the discovery of new nanomedicine to overcome the shortages of conventional drugs. Therefore, this article presents a comprehensive and up-to-date review of the effects of nanoparticle-based drugs in the treatment of respiratory disorders, including both basic and clinical studies. Databases, including PubMed, Web of Knowledge, and Scopus, were searched until the end of August 2022 regarding the effect of nanoparticles on respiratory diseases. As a new tool, nanomedicine offered promising applications for the treatment of pulmonary diseases. The basic composition and intrinsic characteristics of nanomaterials showed their effectiveness in treating pulmonary diseases. The efficiency of different nanomedicines has been demonstrated in experimental animal models of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis (PF), lung cancer, lung infection, and other lung disorders, confirming their function in the improvement of respiratory disorders. Various types of nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes, dendrimers, polymeric nanomaterials, liposomes, quantum dots, and metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, have demonstrated therapeutic effects on respiratory disorders, which may lead to new possible remedies for various respiratory illnesses that could increase drug efficacy and decrease side effects.

Dissecting the Role of SMYD2 and Its Inhibitor (LLY-507) in the Treatment of Chemically Induced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) by Using Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Drug Delivery System

Cancer therapies based on nanoparticles with a loaded drug can overcome the problem of the drug's toxic effects in the traditional chemotherapeutic approach. In this study, we loaded LLY-507, a potent inhibitor of SMYD2, a methyltransferase enzyme, on iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by microscopic analysis, loading efficiency, and drug release studies. Microscopic examination revealed an average grain size of 44 nm. The in vitro effect of LLY-507-IONPs, LLY-507, and IONPs was determined by MTT analysis (A549 cells) and hemolysis studies. IONPs have almost negative hemolytic activity in blood. The cell viability assay revealed IC50 values of both LLY-507 alone and LLY-507-loaded IONPs against A549; the lower value of the drug loaded on NPs (0.71 µg/mL alone and 0.53 µg/mL loaded on NPs) shows strong synergistic anticancer potential. We further tested the role of loaded NPs in a urethane-induced lung cancer mouse model (n = 40 mice in three independent trials, 20 mice in control group) to check the role of SMYD2 at various time points of lung cancer development. The loss of SMYD2 due to LLY-507 suppressed tumor growth, emphysema, hemorrhage, and congestion considerably. Hence, it can be concluded that the SMYD2 inhibitor has an anti-inflammatory effect on the mouse lung and suppresses tumor growth by inhibiting the SMYD2 protein.

Biochemical changes of macrophages and U87MG cells occurring as a result of the exposure to iron oxide nanoparticles detected with the Raman microspectroscopy

The core size of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) is a crucial factor defining not only their magnetic properties but also toxicological profile and biocompatibility. On the other hand, particular IONPs may induce different biological response depending on the dose, exposure time, but mainly depending on the examined system. New light on this problem may be shed by the information concerning biomolecular anomalies appearing in various cell lines in response to the action of IONPs with different core diameters and this was accomplished in the present study. Using Raman microscopy we studied the abnormalities in the accumulation of proteins, lipids and organic matter within the nucleus, cytoplasm and cellular membrane of macrophages, HEK293T and U87MG cell line occurring as a result of 24-hour long exposure to PEG-coated magnetite IONPs. The examined nanoparticles had 5, 10 and 30 nm cores and were administered in doses 5 and 25 μg Fe/ml. The obtained results showed significant anomalies in biochemical composition of macrophages and the U87MG cells, but not the HEK293T cells, occurring as a result of exposure to all of the examined nanoparticles. However, IONPs with 10 nm core diminished the accumulation of biomolecules in cells only when they were administered at a larger dose. The Raman spectra recorded for the macrophages subjected to 30 nm IONPs and for the U87MG cells exposed to 5 and 10 nm showed the presence of additional bands in the wavenumber range 1700-2400 cm^-1, probably resulting from the appearance of Fe adducts within cells. Our results indicate, moreover, that smaller IONPs may be effectively internalized into the U87MG cells, which points at their diagnostic/therapeutic potential in the case of glioblastoma multiforme.

Toxicological effects of the mixed iron oxide nanoparticle (Fe3O4 NP) on murine fibroblasts LA-9

The increase in large-scale production of magnetic nanoparticles (NP) associated with the incomplete comprehensive knowledge regarding the potential risks of their use on environmental and human health makes it necessary to study the biological effects of these particles on organisms at the cellular level. The aim of this study to examine the cellular effects on fibroblast lineage LA-9 after exposure to mixed iron oxide NP (Fe₃O₄ NP). The following analyses were performed: field emission gun-scanning electron microscopy (SEM-FEG), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, ultraviolet/visible region spectroscopy (UV/VIS), and attenuated total reactance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy analyses for characterization of the NP. The assays included cell viability, morphology, clonogenic potential, oxidative stress as measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) levels, cytokines quantification interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), NP uptake, and cell death. The size of Fe₃O₄ NP was 26.3 nm when evaluated in water through DLS. Fe₃O₄ NP did not reduce fibroblast cell viability until the highest concentration tested (250 µg/ml), which showed a decrease in clonogenic potential as well as small morphological changes after exposure for 48 and 72 hr. The NP concentration of 250 µg/ml induced enhanced ROS and NO production after 24 hr treatment. The uptake assay exhibited time-dependent Fe₃O₄ NP internalization at all concentrations tested with no significant cell death. Hence, exposure of fibroblasts to Fe₃O₄ NP-induced oxidative stress but not reduced cell viability or death. However, the decrease in the clonogenic potential at the highest concentration demonstrates cytotoxic effects attributed to Fe₃O₄ NP which occurred on the 7^th day after exposure.

Iron oxide nanoparticles for biomedical applications: an updated patent review (2015-2021)

INTRODUCTION

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) hold the edges of great magnetic properties and fine nanoparticle characteristics, making them an attractive therapeutic agent. In the past seven years, more in-depth investigations were devoted to the intrinsic structure, magnetic properties, and biological effects of IONPs, expanding the range of their therapeutic application scenes.

AREAS COVERED

This review focuses on the development of IONPs for biomedical applications from the angle of the patent literature reported during the period 2015-2021.

EXPERT OPINION

While the magnetic properties of IONPs have been extensively explored, the precise control of IONP behavior through external magnetic fields remains a challenge. Further digging into the biological effects of IONPs will facilitate the development of IONP-based immune therapies. Long-term reliable safety evaluations are of necessity and significance to promote the process of clinical translation.

Development of an In Vitro Release Assay for Low-Density Cannabidiol Nanoparticles Prepared by Flash NanoPrecipitation

Nanoparticle encapsulation is an attractive approach to improve the oral bioavailability of hydrophobic therapeutics. The high specific surface area of nanoparticle formulations, combined with the thermodynamically driven increased solubility of an amorphous drug core, promotes rapid drug dissolution. However, the physicochemical properties of the hydrophobic therapeutic can present obstacles to in vitro characterization of nanoparticle formulations. Namely, drugs with low density and high membrane binding affinity frustrate traditional analytical methods to monitor release kinetics from nanoparticles. In this work, cannabidiol (CBD) was encapsulated into nanoparticles with low polydispersity and high drug loading via Flash NanoPrecipitation (FNP), a scalable self-assembly process. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS) and lecithin were employed as amphiphilic particle stabilizers during the FNP process. However, the low density and high membrane binding affinity of the amorphous CBD nanoparticle core prevented the characterization of in vitro release kinetics by conventional methods. Released CBD could not be separated from intact nanoparticles by filtration or centrifugation. To address this challenge, an alternative approach is described to coencapsulate 6 nm hydrophobic Fe₃O₄ colloids with CBD during FNP. The Fe₃O₄ colloids were added at 33% by mass (approximately 20% by volume) to increase the density of the nanoparticles, resulting in particles with an average diameter of 160 nm (CBD-lecithin-Fe₃O₄) or 280 nm (CBD-HPMCAS-Fe₃O₄). This densification enabled the centrifugal separation of dissolved (released) CBD from unreleased CBD during the in vitro assay while avoiding the losses associated with a filtration step. The resulting nanoparticle formulations provided more rapid and complete in vitro dissolution kinetics than bulk CBD, representing a 6-fold improvement in dissolution compared to crystalline CBD. The coencapsulation of high-density Fe₃O₄ colloids to enable the separation of nanoparticles from release media is a novel approach to measuring in vitro release kinetics of nanoencapsulated low-density, hydrophobic drug molecules.

Protective Effect of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles on Periodontal Injury in Rats by Inhibiting Collagenase-1 and Alkaline Phosphatase Expression

This study intends to assess whether iron oxide nanoparticles affect periodontal injury and collagenase-1 (COL-1), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in rats. In this study, the ALP activity and Col-1 concentration in rats with periodontal injury were determined.We detected the periodontal histopathological changes and expression of periodontal pocket depth (PD) and attachment loss (AL) by Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining.We also detected Col-1 and ALP proteins in periodontal tissues by Western blot. Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) detected Col-1 and ALP mRNA level in periodontal tissues of rats in each group, while ALP activity and Col-1 concentration in gingival crevicular fluid in model group increased compared to sham group (P < 0.05). After intervention by iron oxide nanoparticles, ALP activity and Col-1 concentration in the gingival crevicular fluid of model rats decreased greatly (P < 0.05). The gingival atrophy was more serious in model group, and many inflammatory cells infiltrated into the tissue and destroyed the alveolar tissue. Meanwhile, the periodontal tissue from rats in intervention group was greatly improved, and the degree of alveolar bone destruction was also significantly reduced, while the PD and AL periodontal indexes were significantly inhibited (P < 0.05). The protein and relative expression showed that the protein and mRNA expressions of ALP and Col-1 in periodontal tissue from model group were lower than those in sham group (P < 0.05). After intervention by iron oxide nanoparticles, the protein and mRNA expressions of ALP and Col-1 in the periodontal tissues in intervention group increased (P < 0.05). Iron oxide nanoparticles can thus inhibit the expression of ALP and COL-1 in periodontal injury rats, and improve the periodontal injury tissue.

Ultrasound and nanomaterial: an efficient pair to fight cancer

Ultrasounds are often used in cancer treatment protocols, e.g. to collect tumor tissues in the right location using ultrasound-guided biopsy, to image the region of the tumor using more affordable and easier to use apparatus than MRI and CT, or to ablate tumor tissues using HIFU. The efficacy of these methods can be further improved by combining them with various nano-systems, thus enabling: (i) a better resolution of ultrasound imaging, allowing for example the visualization of angiogenic blood vessels, (ii) the specific tumor targeting of anti-tumor chemotherapeutic drugs or gases attached to or encapsulated in nano-systems and released in a controlled manner in the tumor under ultrasound application, (iii) tumor treatment at tumor site using more moderate heating temperatures than with HIFU. Furthermore, some nano-systems display adjustable sizes, i.e. nanobubbles can grow into micro-bubbles. Such dual size is advantageous since it enables gathering within the same unit the targeting properties of nano bubbles via EPR effect and the enhanced ultrasound contrasting properties of micro bubbles. Interestingly, the way in which nano-systems act against a tumor could in principle also be adjusted by accurately selecting the nano-system among a large choice and by tuning the values of the ultrasound parameters, which can lead, due to their mechanical nature, to specific effects such as cavitation that are usually not observed with purely electromagnetic waves and can potentially help destroying the tumor. This review highlights the clinical potential of these combined treatments that can improve the benefit/risk ratio of current cancer treatments.

Recent progress in advanced biomaterials for long-acting reversible contraception

Unintended pregnancy is a global issue with serious ramifications for women, their families, and society, including abortion, infertility, and maternal death. Although existing contraceptive strategies have been widely used in people's lives, there have not been satisfactory feedbacks due to low contraceptive efficacy and related side effects (e.g., decreased sexuality, menstrual cycle disorder, and even lifelong infertility). In recent years, biomaterials-based long-acting reversible contraception has received increasing attention from the viewpoint of fundamental research and practical applications mainly owing to improved delivery routes and controlled drug delivery. This review summarizes recent progress in advanced biomaterials for long-acting reversible contraception via various delivery routes, including subcutaneous implant, transdermal patch, oral administration, vaginal ring, intrauterine device, fallopian tube occlusion, vas deferens contraception, and Intravenous administration. In addition, biomaterials, especially nanomaterials, still need to be improved and prospects for the future in contraception are mentioned.

Recent Progress in Nanostructured Smart Drug Delivery Systems for Cancer Therapy: A Review

Traditional treatment approaches for cancer involve intravenous chemotherapy or other forms of drug delivery. These therapeutic measures suffer from several limitations such as nonspecific targeting, poor biodistribution, and buildup of drug resistances. However, significant technological advancements have been made in terms of superior modes of drug delivery over the last few decades. Technical capability in analyzing the molecular mechanisms of tumor biology, nanotechnology─particularly the development of biocompatible nanoparticles, surface modification techniques, microelectronics, and material sciences─has increased. As a result, a significant number of nanostructured carriers that can deliver drugs to specific cancerous sites with high efficiency have been developed. This particular maneuver that enables the introduction of a therapeutic nanostructured substance in the body by controlling the rate, time, and place is defined as the nanostructured drug delivery system (NDDS). Because of their versatility and ability to incorporate features such as specific targeting, water solubility, stability, biocompatibility, degradability, and ability to reverse drug resistance, they have attracted the interest of the scientific community, in general, and nanotechnologists as well as biomedical scientists. To keep pace with the rapid advancement of nanotechnology, specific technical aspects of the recent NDDSs and their prospects need to be reported coherently. To address these ongoing issues, this review article provides an overview of different NDDSs such as lipids, polymers, and inorganic nanoparticles. In addition, this review also reports the challenges of current NDDSs and points out the prospective research directions of these nanocarriers. From our focused review, we conclude that still now the most advanced and potent field of application for NDDSs is lipid-based, while other significantly potential fields include polymer-based and inorganic NDDSs. However, despite the promises, challenges remain in practical implementations of such NDDSs in terms of dosage and stability, and caution should be exercised regarding biocompatibility of materials. Considering these aspects objectively, this review on NDDSs will be particularly of interest for small-to-large scale industrial researchers and academicians with expertise in drug delivery, cancer research, and nanotechnology.

Polymeric Composite of Magnetite Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and Their Application in Biomedicine: A Review

A broad spectrum of nanomaterials has been investigated for multiple purposes in recent years. Some of these studied materials are magnetics nanoparticles (MNPs). Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are MNPs that have received extensive attention because of their physicochemical and magnetic properties and their ease of combination with organic or inorganic compounds. Furthermore, the arresting of these MNPs into a cross-linked matrix known as hydrogel has attracted significant interest in the biomedical field. Commonly, MNPs act as a reinforcing material for the polymer matrix. In the present review, several methods, such as co-precipitation, polyol, hydrothermal, microemulsion, and sol-gel methods, are reported to synthesize magnetite nanoparticles with controllable physical and chemical properties that suit the required application. Due to the potential of magnetite-based nanocomposites, specifically in hydrogels, processing methods, including physical blending, in situ precipitation, and grafting methods, are introduced. Moreover, the most common characterization techniques employed to study MNPs and magnetic gel are discussed.

Criticality of Surface Characteristics of Intravenous Iron-Carbohydrate Nanoparticle Complexes: Implications for Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics

Un-complexed polynuclear ferric oxyhydroxide cannot be administered safely or effectively to patients. When polynuclear iron cores are formed with carbohydrates of various structures, stable complexes with surface carbohydrates driven by multiple interacting sites and forces are formed. These complexes deliver iron in a usable form to the body while avoiding the serious adverse effects of un-complexed forms of iron, such as polynuclear ferric oxyhydroxide. The rate and extent of plasma clearance and tissue biodistribution is variable among the commercially available iron–carbohydrate complexes and is driven principally by the surface characteristics of the complexes which dictate macrophage opsonization. The surface chemistry differences between the iron–carbohydrate complexes results in significant differences in in vivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles as well as adverse event profiles, demonstrating that the entire iron–carbohydrate complex furnishes the pharmacologic action for these complex products. Currently available physicochemical characterization methods have limitations in biorelevant matrices resulting in challenges in defining critical quality attributes for surface characteristics for this class of complex nanomedicines.

The Surface Amine Group of Ultrasmall Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Produce Analgesia in the Spinal Cord and Decrease Long-Term Potentiation

Our previous studies have revealed the ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide in the amine group USPIO-101 has an analgesic effect on inflammatory pain. Here, we further investigated its effect on the spinal cord and brain via electrophysiological and molecular methods. We used a mouse inflammatory pain model, induced by complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA), and measured pain thresholds via von Frey methods. We also investigated the effects of USPIO-101 via an extracellular electrophysiological recording at the spinal dorsal horn synapses and hippocampal Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapses, respectively. The mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Our results showed intrathecal USPIO-101 produces similar analgesic behavior in mice with chronic inflammatory pain via intrathecal or intraplantar administration. The potentiated low-frequency stimulation-induced spinal cord long-term potentiation (LTP) at the spinal cord superficial dorsal horn synapses could decrease via USPIO-101 in mice with chronic inflammatory pain. However, the mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase-2 was enhanced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in microglial cells, and we also found USPIO-101 at 30 µg/mL could decrease the magnitude of hippocampal LTP. These findings revealed that intrathecal USPIO-101 presented an analgesia effect at the spinal cord level, but had neurotoxicity risk at higher doses.

Need for Expansion of Pharmacy Education Globally for the Growing Field of Nanomedicine

The emerging landscape of nanomedicine includes a wide variety of active pharmaceutical ingredients and drug formulations. Their design provides nanomedicines with unique features leading to improved pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. They are manufactured using conventional or biotechnological manufacturing processes. Their physical characteristics are vastly different from traditional small-molecule drugs. Pharmacists are important members of the multi-disciplinary team of scientists involved in their development and clinical application. Consequently, their training should lead to an understanding of the complexities associated with the production and evaluation of nanomedicines. Therefore, student pharmacists, post-doctoral researchers, and trainees should be given more exposure to this rapidly evolving class of therapeutics. This commentary will provide an overview of nanomedicine education within the selection of pharmacy programs globally, discuss the current regulatory challenges, and describe different approaches to incorporate nanomedicine science in pharmacy programs around the world.

Nano-based drug delivery system: a smart alternative towards eradication of viral sanctuaries in management of NeuroAIDS

Even though the dawn of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) proved out to be a boon for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients, management of HIV infections persists to be a major global health curse. A reduced efficacy with existing conventional therapy for brain targeting has been largely credited to the inability of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs to transmigrate across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in productive concentrations. The review consists of nano-based drug delivery strategies rendering superior outcomes to delivery of ARV drugs to the viral sanctuaries in the brain. Nano-ART for ARV drugs promotes the development of an optimized dosage regimen, thereby improving the penetration of drugs across the BBB in an attempt to target the central reservoirs hosting viral population. Numerous efforts have been undertaken for making the drug more bioavailable and therapeutically effective by moulding them into various nanostructures. Polymeric nanocarriers, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, nanoemulsions, nanodiamonds, vesicle-based drug carriers, metal-based nanoparticles, and nano vaccines have been reported for their advancing role as a smart alternative for drug delivery to central nervous system. The high drug loading capacity of nanocarriers and their small size effectuating increased surface to volume ratio is accountable for improved efficacy of ARV drugs when formulated as nanotherapeutics. This review highlights the advancing role of nanotherapeutics in mediating a successful delivery of ARV drugs to eradicate viral loads in treating NeuroAIDS.

Magnetic nanoparticles for highly robust, facile and efficient loading of metal-based drugs

Direct interaction between iron oxide nanoparticles (IONs), modified with polyethylene glycol and an ionic liquid, and activated cisplatin drug resulted in a fast and high drug loading (up to 0.17 mol of platinum per gram of iron), and the payload does not strongly affect the magnetic properties of IONs and resists protein adsorption in human serum environment. For another, developmental metal-based drug, tris(8-quinolinolato)gallium(III), binding to the IONs allowed for overcoming the disadvantages of low solubility and incompatibility with intravenous administration. The potential of IONs as a magnetic nanoformulation for smart drug delivery has been confirmed by the release of both metallodrugs under conditions relevant to cancer cytosol.

Pharmaceutical Aspects of Nanocarriers for Smart Anticancer Therapy

Drug delivery to tumor sites using nanotechnology has been demonstrated to overcome the drawbacks of conventional anticancer drugs. Altering the surface shape and geometry of nanocomposites alters their chemical properties, which can confer multiple attributes to nanocarriers for the treatment of cancer and their use as imaging agents for cancer diagnosis. However, heterogeneity and blood flow in human cancer limit the distribution of nanoparticles at the site of tumor tisues. For targeted delivery and controlled release of drug molecules in harsh tumor microenvironments, smart nanocarriers combined with various stimuli-responsive materials have been developed. In this review, we describe nanomaterials for smart anticancer therapy as well as their pharmaceutical aspects including pharmaceutical process, formulation, controlled drug release, drug targetability, and pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic profiles of smart nanocarriers. Inorganic or organic-inorganic hybrid nanoplatforms and the electrospinning process have also been briefly described here.

R, Trevino De Leo C, Lopez SA, Martirosyan KS, Chew SA. Application of iron oxide nanoparticles to control the release of minocycline for the treatment of glioblastoma

Background: The utilization of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) to control minocycline release rates from poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) scaffolds fabricated from an easy/economical technique is presented. Results & methodology: A larger change in temperature and amount of minocycline released was observed for scaffolds with higher amounts of Fe3O4 NPs, demonstrating that nanoparticle concentration can control heat generation and minocycline release. Temperatures near a polymer's glass transition temperature can result in the polymer's chain becoming more mobile and thus increasing drug diffusion out of the scaffold. Elevated temperature and minocycline released from the scaffold can work synergistically to enhance glioblastoma cell death. Conclusion: This study suggests that Fe3O4 NPs are promising materials for controlling minocycline release from polymeric scaffolds by magnetic hyperthermia for the treatment of glioblastoma.

Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering

In recent years, many promising nanotechnological approaches to biomedical research have been developed in order to increase implementation of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering in clinical practice. In the meantime, the use of nanomaterials for the regeneration of diseased or injured tissues is considered advantageous in most areas of medicine. In particular, for the treatment of cardiovascular, osteochondral and neurological defects, but also for the recovery of functions of other organs such as kidney, liver, pancreas, bladder, urethra and for wound healing, nanomaterials are increasingly being developed that serve as scaffolds, mimic the extracellular matrix and promote adhesion or differentiation of cells. This review focuses on the latest developments in regenerative medicine, in which iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) play a crucial role for tissue engineering and cell therapy. IONPs are not only enabling the use of non-invasive observation methods to monitor the therapy, but can also accelerate and enhance regeneration, either thanks to their inherent magnetic properties or by functionalization with bioactive or therapeutic compounds, such as drugs, enzymes and growth factors. In addition, the presence of magnetic fields can direct IONP-labeled cells specifically to the site of action or induce cell differentiation into a specific cell type through mechanotransduction.

Comparison of biomarker responses after acute and chronic bioassays in Lumbriculus variegatus

Differential biomarker responses may occur after acute or chronic bioassays when animals are unfed. In many aquatic species, food deprivation may lead to a pro-oxidant condition. However, information about its effects on the oligochaete Lumbriculus variegatus, a bioindicator organism for water and sediment toxicity tests, is almost completely lacking. Acute (48 h) and chronic (21 days) bioassays were performed using unfed L. variegatus to assess the impact of food deprivation on several biomarkers related to the redox cellular status. Results showed that food deprivation inhibited the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase, whilst levels of total glutathione (t-GSH) and lipid peroxidation processes increased with respect to controls. The same biomarkers were evaluated in unfed organisms exposed to tributyltin (TBT), nano-goethite or a binary mixture of both, for 48 h and 21 days. After 48 h, the organisms were able to cope with chemical stressors by enhancing antioxidant defences and lipid peroxidation processes were not observed. After 21 days, both TBT and the binary mixture induced the most noxious effects. At this time, the antioxidant enzymatic defences were still higher than controls, but levels of t-GSH were significantly decreased and lipid peroxidation was found. Therefore, differential biomarker responses were observed between starved organisms for 21 days and those simultaneously exposed to other chemical stressors. The activity of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase was also determined, but it remained unchanged in all cases.

Magnetic Testis Targeting and Magnetic Hyperthermia for Noninvasive, Controllable Male Contraception via Intravenous Administration

Mild testicular hyperthermia by the photothermal effect of gold nanorods could realize controllable male contraception. However, associated limitations, such as testicular administration and infrared laser inflicting severe pain, and the nondegradability of nanoparticles potentially causing toxicity, have restricted further clinical application. Inspired by the excellent physicochemical properties of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), and the finding that testicular injection of PEG-coated IONPs with a diameter of 50 nm (PEG@Fe₃O₄-50) following an alternating magnetic field (AMF) could achieve controllable male contraception; here we propose a noninvasive, targeting approach for male contraception via intravenous administration. The magnetic properties and testes targeting of IONPs were proven to be greatly affected by their surface chemistry and particle size. After systemic administration, citric acid stabilized IONPs with size of 100 nm (CA@Fe₃O₄-100) were found to be the best ideal thermoagent for realizing the noninvasive contraception. This study offers new strategies for male contraception.

Nanocarriers Used in Drug Delivery to Enhance Immune System in Cancer Therapy

Cancer, a group of diseases responsible for the second largest cause of global death, is considered one of the main public health problems today. Despite the advances, there are still difficulties in the development of more efficient cancer therapies and fewer adverse effects for the patients. In this context, nanobiotechnology, a materials science on a nanometric scale specified for biology, has been developing and acquiring prominence for the synthesis of nanocarriers that provide a wide surface area in relation to volume, better drug delivery, and a maximization of therapeutic efficiency. Among these carriers, the ones that stand out are those focused on the activation of the immune system. The literature demonstrates the importance of this system for anticancer therapy, given that the best treatment for this disease also activates the immune system to recognize, track, and destroy all remaining tumor cells.

Silver, copper and copper oxide nanoparticles in the fight against human viruses: progress and perspectives

The rapid development of nanomedicine has created a high demand for silver, copper and copper oxide nanoparticles. Due to their high reactivity and potent antimicrobial activity, silver and copper-based nanomaterials have been playing an important role in the search for new alternatives for the treatment of several issues of concern, such as pathologies caused by bacteria and viruses. Viral diseases are a significant and constant threat to public health. The most recent example is the pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this context, the object of the present review is to highlight recent progress in the biomedical uses of these metal nanoparticles for the treatment and prevention of human viral infections. We discuss the antiviral activity of AgNPs and Cu-based NPs, including their actions against SARS-CoV-2. We also discuss the toxicity, biodistribution and excretion of AgNPs and CuNPs, along with their uses in medical devices or on inert surfaces to avoid viral dissemination by fomites. The challenges and limitations of the biomedical use of these nanoparticles are presented.

In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of PEGylated Starch-Coated Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Enhanced Photothermal Cancer Therapy

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) possess versatile utility in cancer theranostics, thus, they have drawn enormous interest in the cancer research field. Herein, we prepared polyethylene glycol (PEG)-conjugated and starch-coated IONPs ("PEG-starch-IONPs"), and assessed their applicability for photothermal treatment (PTT) of cancer. The prepared PEG-starch-IONPs were investigated for their physical properties by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The pharmacokinetic study results showed a significant extension in the plasma half-life by PEGylation, which led to a markedly increased (5.7-fold) tumor accumulation. When PEG-starch-IONPs were evaluated for their photothermal activity, notably, they displayed marked and reproducible heating effects selectively on the tumor site with laser irradiation. Lastly, efficacy studies demonstrated that PEG-starch-IONPs-based PTT may be a promising mode of cancer therapy.

Enhancement of T2* Weighted MRI Imaging Sensitivity of U87MG Glioblastoma Cells Using γ-Ray Irradiated Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid-Conjugated Iron Nanoparticles

INTRODUCTION

It has been reported that low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (LMWHA) exhibits a potentially beneficial effect on cancer therapy through targeting of CD44 receptors on tumor cell surfaces. However, its applicability towards tumor detection is still unclear. In this regard, LMWHA-conjugated iron (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (LMWHA-IONPs) were prepared in order to evaluate its application for enhancing the T2* weighted MRI imaging sensitivity for tumor detection.

METHODS

LMWHA and Fe3O4 NPs were produced using γ-ray irradiation and chemical co-precipitation methods, respectively. First, LMWHA-conjugated FITC was prepared to confirm the ability of LMWHA to target U87MG cells using fluorescence microscopy. The hydrodynamic size distribution and dispersion of the IONPs and prepared LMWHA-IONPs were analyzed using dynamic light scattering (DLS). In addition, cell viability assays were performed to examine the biocompatibility of LMWHA and LMWHA-IONPs toward U87MG human glioblastoma and NIH3T3 fibroblast cell lines. The ability of LMWHA-IONPs to target tumor cells was confirmed by detecting iron (Fe) ion content using the thiocyanate method. Finally, time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) imaging and in vitro magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed to confirm the contrast enhancement effect of LMWHA-IONPs.

RESULTS

Florescence analysis results showed that LMWHA-FITC successfully targeted the surfaces of both tested cell types. The ability of LMWHA to target U87MG cells was higher than for NIH3T3 cells. Cell viability experiments showed that the fabricated LMWHA-IONPs possessed good biocompatibility for both cell lines. After co-culturing test cells with the LMWHA-IONPs, detected Fe ion content in the U87MG cells was much higher than that of the NIH3T3 cells in both thiocyanate assays and TOF-SIMs images. Finally, the addition of LMWHA-IONPs to the U87MG cells resulted in an obvious improvement in T2* weighted MR image contrast compared to control NIH3T3 cells.

DISCUSSION

Overall, the present results suggest that LMWHA-IONPs fabricated in this study provide an effective MRI contrast agent for improving the diagnosis of early stage glioblastoma in MRI examinations.

Antimicrobial and Wound Healing Properties of FeO Fabricated Chitosan/PVA Nanocomposite Sponge

Diabetic and anemia-associated diabetic wounds increase the considerable morbidity and mortality in people, as reported by clinical studies. However, no anemia-associated diabetic wound dressing materials have been developed until now. Hence, this study aimed to develop a nanocomposite scaffold composed of chitosan (CS), poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and phytogenic iron oxide nanoparticles (FeO NPs), for accelerated anemia-associated diabetic wound healing. The aqueous leaves extract of Pinus densiflora (PD) was utilized for the synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (FeO NPs). TEM and elemental analysis confirmed smaller size PD-FeO NPs (<50 nm) synthesis with the combination of iron and oxide. In addition, in vitro biological studies displayed the moderate antioxidant, antidiabetic activities, and considerable antibacterial activity of PD-FeO NPs. Further, the different concentrations of PD-FeO NPs (0.01, 0.03, and 0.05%) incorporated CS/PVA nanocomposites sponges were developed by the freeze-drying method. The porous structured morphology and the presence of PD-FeO NPs were observed under FE-SEM. Among nanocomposite sponges, PD-FeO NPs (0.01%) incorporated CS/PVA sponges were further chosen for the in vitro wound-healing assay, based on the porous and water sorption nature. Furthermore, the in vitro wound-healing assay revealed that PD-FeO NPs (0.01%) incorporated CS/PVA has significantly increased the cell proliferation in HEK293 cells. In conclusion, the CS/PVA-PD-FeO NPs (0.01%) sponge would be recommended for diabetic wound dressing after a detailed in vivo evaluation.

Synthesis and modification of bio-derived antibacterial Ag and ZnO nanoparticles by plants, fungi, and bacteria

Ag and ZnO nanoparticles (NP) can be prepared by physical, chemical, or eco-friendly methods. The biosynthesis of metal and metal oxide NPs by plants, fungi, and bacteria could be a promising way to obtain biocompatible NPs that have desirable antibacterial activities. However, the uniformity of shape, size, and size distribution of NPs are crucial to producing significant antibacterial results, particularly in physiological conditions such as infected wounds or septicemia. In this review, we discuss recent progress and challenges in the use of novel approaches for the biosynthesis of Ag and ZnO nanoparticles that have antibacterial activities.

Biomimetic Liposomal Nanoplatinum for Targeted Cancer Chemophototherapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) of cancer is limited by tumor hypoxia. Platinum nanoparticles (nano-Pt) as a catalase-like nanoenzyme can enhance PDT through catalytic oxygen supply. However, the cytotoxic activity of nano-Pt is not comprehensively considered in the existing methods to exert their multifunctional antitumor effects. Here, nano-Pt are loaded into liposomes via reverse phase evaporation. The clinical photosensitizer verteporfin (VP) is loaded in the lipid bilayer to confer PDT activity. Murine macrophage cell membranes are hybridized into the liposomal membrane to confer biomimetic and targeting features. The resulting liposomal system, termed "nano-Pt/VP@MLipo," is investigated for chemophototherapy in vitro and in vivo in mouse tumor models. At the tumor site, oxygen produced by nano-Pt catalyzation improves the VP-mediated PDT, which in turn triggers the release of nano-Pt via membrane permeabilization. The ultrasmall 3-5 nm nano-Pt enables better penetration in tumors, which is also facilitated by the generated oxygen gas, for enhanced chemotherapy. Chemophototherapy with a single injection of nano-Pt/VP@MLipo and light irradiation inhibits the growth of aggressive 4T1 tumors and their lung metastasis, and prolongs animal survival without overt toxicity.

Strategies for Cancer Treatment Based on Photonic Nanomedicine

Traditional cancer treatments, such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, are still the most effective clinical practice options. However, these treatments may display moderate to severe side effects caused by their low temporal or spatial resolution. In this sense, photonic nanomedicine therapies have been arising as an alternative to traditional cancer treatments since they display more control of temporal and spatial resolution, thereby yielding fewer side effects. In this work, we reviewed the challenge of current cancer treatments, using the PubMed and Web of Science database, focusing on the advances of three prominent therapies approached by photonic nanomedicine: (i) photothermal therapy; (ii) photodynamic therapy; (iii) photoresponsive drug delivery systems. These photonic nanomedicines act on the cancer cells through different mechanisms, such as hyperthermic effect and delivery of chemotherapeutics and species that cause oxidative stress. Furthermore, we covered the recent advances in materials science applied in photonic nanomedicine, highlighting the main classes of materials used in each therapy, their applications in the context of cancer treatment, as well as their advantages, limitations, and future perspectives. Finally, although some photonic nanomedicines are undergoing clinical trials, their effectiveness in cancer treatment have already been highlighted by pre-clinical studies.

Surface engineered iron oxide nanoparticles as efficient materials for antibiofilm application

Overuse of antibiotics has led to the development of multi drug resistant strains. Antibiotic resistance is a major drawback in the biomedical field since medical implants are prone to infection by biofilms of antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria. With increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistant pathogenic bacteria, the search for alternative method is utmost importance. In this regard, magnetic nanoparticles are commonly used as a substitute for antibiotics that can circumvent the problem of biofilms growth on the surface of biomedical implants. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have unique magnetic properties that can be exploited in various ways in the biomedical applications. IONPs are engineered employing different methods to induce surface functionalization that include the use of polyethyleneimine and oleic acid. IONPs have a mechanical effect on biofilms when in presence of an external magnet. In this review, a detailed description of surface engineered magnetic nanoparticles as ideal antibacterial agents is provided, accompanied by various methods of literature review. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

MSN, MWCNT and ZnO nanoparticle-induced CHO-K1 cell polarisation is linked to cytoskeleton ablation

BACKGROUND

The cellular response to nanoparticles (NPs) for the mechanical clue and biochemical changes are unexplored. Here, we provide the comprehensive analysis of the Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO-K1) cell line to study cell behaviour following the exposure of mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSN), multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and zinc oxide (ZnO) NPs.

RESULTS

Through the high-throughput proteomic study, we observed that the effect of NPs is alone not restricted to cell viability but also on cell polarisation. In the case of MSN, no drastic changes were observed in cellular morphology, but it upregulated chaperons that might prevent protein aggregation. However, MWCNT showed elongated cell appearance with numerous cytoplasmic vacuoles, and induce lamellipodia formation through actin polymerisation. The cytoskeleton remodelling was accompanied by the increased expression of Dlc-1, cofilin and Rac1 proteins. While ZnO NPs resulted in the rounded cell morphology along with nuclear abnormalities. The proteome analysis revealed that UBXN11 control cell roundness and DOCK3 leads to actin stress fibre formation and finally, loss of cell adhesion. It enhances the expression of catastrophic DNA damage and apoptotic proteins, which was unrecoverable even after 72 h, as confirmed by the colony formation assay. All three NPs trigger over-expression of the endocytic pathway, ubiquitination, and proteasomal complex proteins. The data indicate that ZnO and MSN entered into the cells through clathrin-mediated pathways; whereas, MWCNT invades through ER-mediated phagocytosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the incubation and concentration of NPs, our work provides evidence for the activation of Rac-Rho signalling pathway to alter cytoskeleton dynamics. Our results assist as a sensitive early molecular readout for nanosafety assessment.