Preparation of liposomal gene therapy vectors by a scalable method without using volatile solvents or detergents

MicroRNA-induced reprogramming of tumor-associated macrophages for modulation of tumor immune microenvironment

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are abundant in the tumor microenvironment and typically exhibit pro-tumoral phenotypes. TAMs overexpress the signal regulatory protein alpha (SIRPα) receptor on their surface, which interacts with CD47 on tumor cells to inhibit their phagocytic activity. In this study, we developed lipid nanoparticles modified with an anti-SIRPα antibody (aSIRPα) for the targeted delivery of microRNA-155 (miR155@aSIRPα-LNP) to TAMs, aiming to enhance their anti-tumoral phenotypes within the tumor microenvironment. The aSIRPα modification not only facilitated nanoparticle uptake by TAMs rather than B16F10 cells, but also blocked the anti-phagocytosis signal by disrupting the interaction between SIRPα and CD47 on cancer cells. This dual functionality enhanced the expression of anti-tumoral phenotype markers in TAMs and activated macrophage-mediated phagocytosis of tumor cells. In a melanoma model, intratumoral administration of miR155@aSIRPα-LNP to B16F10 tumor-bearing mice reprogrammed TAMs toward anti-tumoral phenotypes. The anti-tumoral cytokines released by these TAMs remodeled the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, increasing cytotoxic T cell infiltration and reducing the regulatory T cell population, inhibiting tumor progression. This approach indicates the potential of miRNA-based therapies to overcome the limitations of current immunotherapies in treating cold solid tumors. Overall, the results suggest that delivering miR155 to TAMs by targeting SIRPα is a promising strategy for modulating the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in cancer immunotherapy.

Niosomes as Vesicular Nanocarriers in Cosmetics: Characterisation, Development and Efficacy

In an era of significant developments in cosmetic chemistry and growing demand for efficacious skincare products, the efficient delivery of active molecules has been a challenge in formulations of cosmetics. In order to improve the performance of active compounds, the use of different nanotechnology-based systems have been explored in cosmetic chemistry. Niosomes, self-assembled vesicular nanocarriers, have been used in the cosmetic industry since the 1970s. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the encapsulation of active cosmetic compounds using niosomes as potential carriers for their sustained and targeted delivery. The review discusses the physicochemical, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of niosomes, including preparation methods, advantages and limitations. Various applications of niosomes in the cosmetic industry are presented together with the permeation and efficacy data from conducted in vitro and in vivo studies. Future perspectives of these nanocarriers for cosmetic applications are highlighted.

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosome and liposome hybrids as transfection nanocarriers of Cas9-GFP plasmid to HEK293T cells

Exosomes are natural membrane-enclosed nanovesicles (30-150 nm) involved in cell-cell communication. Recently, they have garnered considerable interest as nanocarriers for the controlled transfer of therapeutic agents to cells. Here, exosomes were derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells using three different isolation methods. Relative to filtration and spin column condensation, the size exclusion chromatography led to the isolation of exosomes with the highest purity. These exosomes were then hybridized with liposomes using freeze-thaw cycles and direct mixing techniques to evaluate whether this combination enhances the transfection efficiency of large plasmids. The efficiency of these hybrids in transferring the Cas9-green fluorescent protein plasmid (pCas9-GFP) into the human embryonic kidney 293T (HEK293T) cells was evaluated compared to the pure exosomes. Both Cas9-GFP-loaded exosomes and exosome-liposome hybrids were taken up well by the HEK293T cells and were able to transfect them with their plasmid loads. Meanwhile, the treatment of the cells with plasmids alone, without any vesicles, resulted in no transfection, indicating that the exosome and exosome-liposome hybrids are essential for the transfer of the plasmids across the cell membrane. The pure exosomes and the hybrids incorporating liposomes obtained by the heating method transfected the cells more efficiently than those containing liposomes obtained by the thin film hydration technique. Interestingly, the method of combining exosomes with liposomes (freeze-thaw vs. direct mixing) proved to be more decisive in determining the size of the vesicular hybrid than their composition. In contrast, the liposome component in the hybrids proved to be decisive for determining the transfection efficiency.

Advancements in liposomal formulations: A comprehensive exploration of industrial production techniques

Liposomes are nanosized, spherical vesicles consisting of an aqueous core encircled by one or more phospholipid bilayer shells. Liposomes have found extensive use in numerous biomedicine and nanomedicine applications due to their excellent biocompatibility, adaptable chemical composition, ease of preparation, and diverse structural characteristics. These applications include nanocarriers for drug delivery, immunoassays, nutraceuticals, tissue engineering, clinical diagnostics, and theranostics formulations. These applications stimulated significant efforts toward scaling up formation processes in anticipation of appropriate industrial advancement. Despite the advancements in conventional methods and the emergence of new approaches for liposome production, their inherent susceptibility to chemical and mechanical influences contributes to critical challenges, including limited colloidal stability and decreased efficiency in encapsulating cargo molecules. With this context, the current review provides brief insights into liposomes conventional and novel industrial production techniques. With a special focus on the structural parameters, and pivotal elements influencing the synthesis of an appropriate and stable formulation, followed by the various regulatory aspects of industrial production.

Targeted Liposomal Drug Delivery: Overview of the Current Applications and Challenges

In drug development, it is not uncommon that an active substance exhibits efficacy in vitro but lacks the ability to specifically reach its target in vivo. As a result, targeted drug delivery has become a primary focus in the pharmaceutical sciences. Since the approval of Doxil® in 1995, liposomes have emerged as a leading nanoparticle in targeted drug delivery. Their low immunogenicity, high versatility, and well-documented efficacy have led to their clinical use against a wide variety of diseases. That being said, every disease is accompanied by a unique set of physiological conditions, and each liposomal product must be formulated with this consideration. There are a multitude of different targeting techniques for liposomes that can be employed depending on the application. Passive techniques such as PEGylation or the enhanced permeation and retention effect can improve general pharmacokinetics, while active techniques such as conjugating targeting molecules to the liposome surface may bring even further specificity. This review aims to summarize the current strategies for targeted liposomes in the treatment of diseases.

Liposomes Affect Protein Release and Stability of ITA-Modified PLGA-PEG-PLGA Hydrogel Carriers for Controlled Drug Delivery

Fat grafting, a key regenerative medicine technique, often requires repeat procedures due to high-fat reabsorption and volume loss. Addressing this, a novel drug delivery system uniquely combines a thermosensitive, FDA-approved hydrogel (itaconic acid-modified PLGA-PEG-PLGA copolymer) with FGF2-STAB, a stable fibroblast growth factor 2 with a 21-day stability, far exceeding a few hours of wild-type FGF2's stability. Additionally, the growth factor was encapsulated in "green" liposomes prepared via the Mozafari method, ensuring pH protection. The system, characterized by first-order FGF2-STAB release, employs green chemistry for biocompatibility, bioactivity, and eco-friendliness. The liposomes, with diameters of 85.73 ± 3.85 nm and 68.6 ± 2.2% encapsulation efficiency, allowed controlled FGF2-STAB release from the hydrogel compared to the unencapsulated FGF2-STAB. Yet, the protein compromised the carrier's hydrolytic stability. Prior tests were conducted on model proteins human albumin (efficiency 80.8 ± 3.2%) and lysozyme (efficiency 81.0 ± 2.7%). This injectable thermosensitive system could advance reconstructive medicine and cosmetic procedures.

Liposome vesicle cannot be formed in non-aqueous phase

In the February of 2023, Yang et al., report a paper to unreal mechanisms of protein and lipid oxidation in mayonnaise with claim of liposome formation in Mayonaise. As bilayer liposome has spherical or oval like structure composed bilayers separated by aqueous region, there is doubt for formation possibility of liposome in non-aqueous phase. In this bilayer vesicle a hydrophobic layer has been replaced between two outer and inner hydrophilic molecules, so regarding thermodynamic rules for tendency to a minimum enthalpy formation of bilayer vesicle with a hydrophobic outer layer in Mayonaise matrix is not possible. It seems more likely the micelle structure instead of liposome. The images in the article is indeed hard to see a liposomal bilayer structure. In other case, more explanation and evidences are required to clarify ambiguous points in this claim. So, arrangement of self-assembling of water soluble phospholipid may occur just in aqueous phase liposome formation is not possible. Also no document exists for bilayer of vesicles. So, those formed vesicle could be reverse micelle not liposome which usually form following dispersion of phospholipids in aqueous phase.

Prognosticating the effect of temperature and pH parameters on size and stability of the nanoliposome system based on thermodynamic modeling

The main challenge of using nanoliposome systems is controlling their size and stability. In order to overcome this challenge, according to the research conducted at the Research Centre for New Technologies of Biological Engineering, University of Tehran, a model for predicting the size and stability of nanoliposome systems based on thermodynamic relations has been presented. In this model, by using the presented equations and without performing many experiments in the laboratory environment, the effect of temperature, ionic power and different pH can be considered simultaneously whereas examining the components of size, stability and any feature were considered before. Synthesis and application of liposomal nanocarriers in different operating conditions can be investigated and predicted, and due to the change in temperature and pH, the smallest size of th system can be obtained. In this study, we were able to model the synthesis and storage conditions of liposomal nanocarriers at different temperatures and acidic, neutral and alkaline pHs, based on the calculation of mathematical equations. This model also indicates that with increasing temperature, the radius increases but with increasing pH, the radius first increases and then decreases. Therefore, this model can be used to predict size and stability in different operating conditions. In fact, with this modelling method, there is no need to study through laboratory methods and analysis to determine the size, stability and surface loads, and in terms of Accuracy, time and cost savings are affordable.

Effects of N-succinyl-chitosan coating on properties of astaxanthin-loaded PEG-liposomes: Environmental stability, antioxidant/antibacterial activities, and in vitro release

Astaxanthin (AST) has outstanding antioxidant and anti-inflammation bioactivities, but the low biocompatibility and stability limit its application in foods. In this study, N-succinyl-chitosan (NSC)-coated AST polyethylene glycol (PEG)-liposomes were constructed to enhance the biocompatibility, stability, and intestinal-targeted migration of AST. The AST NSC/PEG-liposomes were uniform in size, had larger particles, greater encapsulation efficiency, and better storage, pH, and temperature stability than the AST PEG-liposomes. AST NSC/PEG-liposomes exerted stronger antibacterial and antioxidant activities against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus than AST PEG-liposomes. The NSC coating not only protects AST PEG-liposomes from gastric acid but also prolongs the retention and sustained release of AST NSC/PEG-liposomes depending on the intestinal pH. Moreover, caco-2 cellular uptake studies showed that AST NSC/PEG-liposomes had higher cellular uptake efficiency than AST PEG-liposomes. And AST NSC/PEG-liposomes were taken up by caco-2 cells through clathrin mediated endocytic, macrophage pathways and paracellular transport pathway. These results further proved that AST NSC/PEG-liposomes delayed the release and promoted the intestinal absorption of AST. Hence, AST PEG-liposomes coated with NSC could potentially be used as an efficient delivery system for therapeutic AST.

An emerging era in manufacturing of drug delivery systems: Nanofabrication techniques

Nanotechnology has the capability of making significant contributions to healthcare. Nanofabrication of multifunctional nano- or micro-character systems is becoming incredibly influential in various sectors like electronics, photonics, energy, and biomedical gadgets worldwide. The invention of such items led to the merger of moderate cost and excellent quality nano or micro-characters into 3D structures. Nanofabrication techniques have many benefits as the primary technology for manipulating cellular surroundings to research signaling processes. The inherent nanoscale mechanisms of cyto-reactions include the existence and death of cells, stem cell segmentation, multiplication, cellular relocation, etc. Nanofabrication is essential in developing various nano-formulations like solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, liposomes, niosomes, nanoemulsions, microemulsions etc. Despite the initial development cost in designing the nanofabrication-based products, it has also reduced the total cost of the healthcare system by considering the added benefits compared to the other standard formulations. Thus, the current review mainly focuses on nanofabrication techniques, advantages, disadvantages, applications in developing various nanocarrier systems, challenges and future perspectives.

Anionic liposomes prepared without organic solvents for effective siRNA delivery

Currently, organic solvents are necessary for the preparation of anionic liposomes for siRNA delivery. The removal of organic solvent is time-consuming and the residual organic solvent is not only a hidden danger, but also affects the stability of anionic liposomes. Glycerol, which is physiologically compatible and does not need to be removed, is used to promote the dispersion of lipids and the formation of anionic liposomes. Additionally, the preparation process is simple and not time-consuming. The results showed that anionic liposomes, which were typically spherical with a particle size of 188.9 nm were successfully prepared with glycerol. And with the help of Ca²⁺ , siRNA was encapsulated in anionic liposomes. The highest encapsulation efficiency at 2.4 mM Ca²⁺ reached 91%. And the formation of calcium phosphate could promote the endosomal escape of siRNA effectively. The results from cell viability showed that the anionic liposomes had no obvious cytotoxicity. It was also verified that anionic liposomes could improve the resistance of siRNA against degradation. Additionally, siRNA delivered by anionic liposomes could play an effective role in knockout. Therefore, anionic liposomes prepared with glycerol will be a safe and effective delivery platform for siRNA and even other nucleic acid drugs.

Liposomes as Delivery System for Applications in Meat Products

In the meat industry, microbial contamination, and lipid and protein oxidation are important factors for quality deterioration. Although natural preservatives have been widely used in various meat products, their biological activities are often reduced due to their volatility, instability, and easy degradation. Liposomes as an amphiphilic delivery system can be used to encapsulate food active compounds, which can improve their stability, promote antibacterial and antioxidant effects and further extend the shelf life of meat products. In this review, we mainly introduce liposomes and methods of their preparation including conventional and advanced techniques. Meanwhile, the main current applications of liposomes and biopolymer-liposome hybrid systems in meat preservation are presented.

Lipid-Based Drug Delivery Systems for Diseases Managements

Liposomes are tiny lipid-based vesicles composed of one or more lipid bilayers, which facilitate the encapsulation of hydrophilic, lipophilic, and amphiphilic biological active agents. The description of the physicochemical properties, formulation methods, characteristics, mechanisms of action, and large-scale manufacturing of liposomes as delivery systems are deeply discussed. The benefits, toxicity, and limitations of the use of liposomes in pharmacotherapeutics including in diagnostics, brain targeting, eye and cancer diseases, and in infections are provided. The experimental approaches that may reduce, or even bypass, the use of liposomal drug drawbacks is described. The application of liposomes in the treatment of numerous diseases is discussed.

Liposomal-Based Formulations: A Path from Basic Research to Temozolomide Delivery Inside Glioblastoma Tissue

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a lethal brain cancer with a very difficult therapeutic approach and ultimately frustrating results. Currently, therapeutic success is mainly limited by the high degree of genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity, the blood brain barrier (BBB), as well as increased drug resistance. Temozolomide (TMZ), a monofunctional alkylating agent, is the first line chemotherapeutic drug for GBM treatment. Yet, the therapeutic efficacy of TMZ suffers from its inability to cross the BBB and very short half-life (~2 h), which requires high doses of this drug for a proper therapeutic effect. Encapsulation in a (nano)carrier is a promising strategy to effectively improve the therapeutic effect of TMZ against GBM. Although research on liposomes as carriers for therapeutic agents is still at an early stage, their integration in GBM treatment has a great potential to advance understanding and treating this disease. In this review, we provide a critical discussion on the preparation methods and physico-chemical properties of liposomes, with a particular emphasis on TMZ-liposomal formulations targeting GBM developed within the last decade. Furthermore, an overview on liposome-based formulations applied to translational oncology and clinical trials formulations in GBM treatment is provided. We emphasize that despite many years of intense research, more careful investigations are still needed to solve the main issues related to the manufacture of reproducible liposomal TMZ formulations for guaranteed translation to the market.

Functionalized niosomes as a smart delivery device in cancer and fungal infection

Various diseases remain untreated due to lack of suitable therapeutic moiety or a suitable drug delivery device, especially where toxicities and side effects are the primary reason for concern. Cancer and fungal infections are diseases where treatment schedules are not completed due to severe side effects or lengthy treatment protocols. Advanced treatment approaches such as active targeting and inhibition of angiogenesis may be preferred method for the treatment for malignancy over the conventional method. Niosomes may be a better alternative drug delivery carrier for various therapeutic moieties (either hydrophilic or hydrophobic) and also due to ease of surface modification, non-immunogenicity and economical. Active targeting approach may be done by targeting the receptors through coupling of suitable ligand on niosomal surface. Moreover, various receptors (CD44, folate, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) & Vascular growth factor receptor (VGFR)) expressed by malignant cells have also been reviewed. The preparation of suitable niosomal formulation also requires considerable attention, and its formulation depends upon various factors such as selection of non-ionic surfactant, method of fabrication, and fabrication parameters. A combination therapy (dual drug and immunotherapy) has been proposed for the treatment of fungal infection with special consideration for surface modification with suitable ligand on niosomal surface to sensitize the receptors (C-type lectin receptors, Toll-like receptors & Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptors) present on immune cells involved in fungal immunity. Certain gene silencing concept has also been discussed as an advanced alternative treatment for cancer by silencing the mRNA at molecular level using short interfering RNA (si-RNA).

Cholesterol-Based Nanovesicles Enhance the In Vitro Cytotoxicity, Ex Vivo Intestinal Absorption, and In Vivo Bioavailability of Flutamide

Critical adverse effects and frequent administration, three times per day, limit the use of flutamide (FLT) as a chemotherapeutic agent in the treatment of prostate cancer. Therefore, our research aimed to develop new cholesterol-based nanovesicles for delivering FLT to malignant cells in an endeavor to maximize its therapeutic efficacy and minimize undesired adverse effects. Draper–Lin small composite design was used to optimize the critical quality attributes of FLT-loaded niosomes and ensure the desired product quality. The influence of the selected four independent variables on mean particle size (Y₁), zeta potential (Y₂), drug entrapment efficiency (Y₃), and the cumulative drug release after 24 h (Y₄) was examined. The optimized nanovesicles were assessed for their in vitro cytotoxicity, ex-vivo absorption via freshly excised rabbit intestine as well as in vivo pharmacokinetics on male rats. TEM confirmed nanovescicles’ spherical shape with bilayer structure. Values of dependent variables were 748.6 nm, −48.60 mV, 72.8% and 72.2% for Y₁, Y₂, Y₃ and Y₄, respectively. The optimized FLT-loaded niosomes exerted high cytotoxic efficacy against human prostate cancer cell line (PC-3) with an IC₅₀ value of 0.64 ± 0.04 µg/mL whilst, it was 1.88 ± 0.16 µg/mL for free FLT. Moreover, the IC₅₀ values on breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) were 0.27 ± 0.07 µg/mL and 4.07 ± 0.74 µg/mL for FLT-loaded niosomes and free FLT, respectively. The permeation of the optimized FLT-loaded niosomes through the rabbit intestine showed an enhancement ratio of about 1.5 times that of the free FLT suspension. In vivo pharmacokinetic study displayed an improvement in oral bioavailability of the optimized niosomal formulation with AUC and C_max values of 741.583 ± 33.557 μg/mL × min and 6.950 ± 0.45 μg/mL compared to 364.536 ± 45.215 μg/mL × min and 2.650 ± 0.55 μg/mL for the oral FLT suspension. With these promising findings, we conclude that encapsulation of FLT in cholesterol-loaded nanovesicles enhanced its anticancer activity and oral bioavailability which endorse its use in the management of prostate cancer.

Green Synthesized Honokiol Transfersomes Relieve the Immunosuppressive and Stem-Like Cell Characteristics of the Aggressive B16F10 Melanoma

BACKGROUND

Honokiol (HK) is a natural bioactive compound with proven antineoplastic properties against melanoma. However, it shows very low bioavailability when administered orally. Alternatively, topical administration may offer a promising route. The objective of the current study was to fabricate HK transfersomes (HKTs) for topical treatment of melanoma. As an ultradeformable carrier system, transfersomes can overcome the physiological barriers to topical treatment of melanoma: the stratum corneum and the anomalous tumor microenvironment. Moreover, the immunomodulatory and stemness-regulation roles of HKTs were the main interest of this study.

METHODS

TFs were prepared using the modified scalable heating method. A three-factor, three-level Box-Behnken design was utilized for the optimization of the process and formulation variables. Intracellular uptake and cytotoxicity of HKTs were evaluated in nonactivated and stromal cell-activated B16F10 melanoma cells to investigate the influence of the complex tumor microenvironment on the efficacy of HK. Finally, ELISA and Western blot were performed to evaluate the expression levels of TGF-β and clusters of differentiation (CD47 and CD133, respectively).

RESULTS

The optimized formula exhibited a mean size of 190 nm, highly negative surface charge, high entrapment efficiency, and sustained release profile. HKTs showed potential to alleviate the immunosuppressive characteristics of B16F10 melanoma in vitro via downregulation of TGF-β signaling. In addition, HKTs reduced expression of the "do not eat me" signal - CD47. Moreover, HKTs possessed additional interesting potential to reduce the expression of the stem-like cell marker CD133. These outcomes were boosted upon combination with metformin, an antihyperglycemic drug recently reported to possess different functions in cancer, while combination with collagenase, an extracellular matrix-depleting enzyme, produced detrimental effects.

CONCLUSION

HKTs represent a promising scalable formulation for treatment of the aggressive B16F10 melanoma, which is jam-packed with immunosuppressive and stem-like cell markers.

Recent Advancement in Topical Nanocarriers for the Treatment of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a life-threatening autoimmune inflammatory skin disease, triggered by T lymphocyte. Recently, the drugs most commonly used for the treatment of psoriasis include methotrexate (MTX), cyclosporine (CsA), acitretin, dexamethasone, and salicylic acid. However, conventional formulations due to poor absorptive capacity, inconsistent drug release characteristics, poor capability of selective targeting, poor retention of drug molecules in target tissue, and unintended skin reactions restrict the clinical efficacy of drugs. Advances in topical nanocarriers allow the development of prominent drug delivery platforms can be employed to address the critical issues associated with conventional formulations. Advances in nanocarriers design, nano-dimensional configuration, and surface functionalization allow formulation scientists to develop formulations for a more effective treatment of psoriasis. Moreover, interventions in the size distribution, shape, agglomeration/aggregation potential, and surface chemistry are the significant aspects need to be critically evaluated for better therapeutic results. This review attempted to explore the opportunities and challenges of current revelations in the nano carrier-based topical drug delivery approach used for the treatment of psoriasis.

Advancements in liposome technology: Preparation techniques and applications in food, functional foods, and bioactive delivery: A review

Liposomes play a significant role in encapsulation of various bioactive compounds (BACs), including functional food ingredients to improve the stability of core. This technology can be used for promoting an effective application in functional food and nutraceuticals. Incorporation of traditional and emerging methods for the developments of liposome for loading BACs resulted in viable and stable liposome formulations for industrial applications. Thus, the advance technologies such as supercritical fluidic methods, microfluidization, ultrasonication with traditional methods are revisited. Liposomes loaded with plant and animal BACs have been introduced for functional food and nutraceutical applications. In general, application of liposome systems improves stability, delivery, and bioavailability of BACs in functional food systems and nutraceuticals. This review covers the current techniques and methodologies developed and practiced in liposomal preparation and application in functional foods.

Insight Into Nanoliposomes as Smart Nanocarriers for Greening the Twenty-First Century Biomedical Settings

The necessity to develop more efficient, biocompatible, patient compliance, and safer treatments in biomedical settings is receiving special attention using nanotechnology as a potential platform to design new drug delivery systems (DDS). Despite the broad range of nanocarrier systems in drug delivery, lack of biocompatibility, poor penetration, low entrapment efficiency, and toxicity are significant challenges that remain to address. Such practices are even more demanding when bioactive agents are intended to be loaded on a nanocarrier system, especially for topical treatment purposes. For the aforesaid reasons, the search for more efficient nano-vesicular systems, such as nanoliposomes, with a high biocompatibility index and controlled releases has increased considerably in the past few decades. Owing to the stratum corneum layer barrier of the skin, the in-practice conventional/conformist drug delivery methods are inefficient, and the effect of the administered therapeutic cues is limited. The current advancement at the nanoscale has transformed the drug delivery sector. Nanoliposomes, as robust nanocarriers, are becoming popular for biomedical applications because of safety, patient compliance, and quick action. Herein, we reviewed state-of-the-art nanoliposomes as a smart and sophisticated drug delivery approach. Following a brief introduction, the drug delivery mechanism of nanoliposomes is discussed with suitable examples for the treatment of numerous diseases with a brief emphasis on fungal infections. The latter half of the work is focused on the applied perspective and clinical translation of nanoliposomes. Furthermore, a detailed overview of clinical applications and future perspectives has been included in this review.

CRISPR-mediated gene modification of hematopoietic stem cells with beta-thalassemia IVS-1-110 mutation

Background

β-Thalassemias represent a group of genetic disorders caused by human hemoglobin beta (HBB) gene mutations. The radical curative approach is to correct the mutations causing the disease. CRISPR-CAS9 is a novel gene-editing technology that can be used auspiciously for the treatment of these disorders. The study aimed to investigate the utility of CRISPR-CAS9 for gene modification of hematopoietic stem cells in β-thalassemia with IVS-1-110 mutation.

Methods and results

We successfully isolated CD34⁺ cells from peripheral blood of β-thalassemia patients with IVS-1-110 mutation. The cells were transfected with Cas9 endonuclease together with guide RNA to create double-strand breaks and knock out the mutation. The mutation-corrected CD34⁺ cells were subjected to erythroid differentiation by culturing in complete media containing erythropoietin.

Conclusion

CRISPR/Cas-9 is an effective tool for gene therapy that will broaden the spectrum of therapy and potentially improve the outcomes of β-thalassemia.

Niosomal Drug Delivery Systems for Ocular Disease-Recent Advances and Future Prospects

The eye is a complex organ consisting of several protective barriers and particular defense mechanisms. Since this organ is exposed to various infections, genetic disorders, and visual impairments it is essential to provide necessary drugs through the appropriate delivery routes and vehicles. The topical route of administration, as the most commonly used approach, maybe inefficient due to low drug bioavailability. New generation safe, effective, and targeted drug delivery systems based on nanocarriers have the capability to circumvent limitations associated with the complex anatomy of the eye. Nanotechnology, through various nanoparticles like niosomes, liposomes, micelles, dendrimers, and different polymeric vesicles play an active role in ophthalmology and ocular drug delivery systems. Niosomes, which are nano-vesicles composed of non-ionic surfactants, are emerging nanocarriers in drug delivery applications due to their solution/storage stability and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, they are biocompatible, biodegradable, flexible in structure, and suitable for loading both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs. These characteristics make niosomes promising nanocarriers in the treatment of ocular diseases. Hereby, we review niosome based drug delivery approaches in ophthalmology starting with different preparation methods of niosomes, drug loading/release mechanisms, characterization techniques of niosome nanocarriers and eventually successful applications in the treatment of ocular disorders.

Probing nanoliposomes using single particle analytical techniques: effect of excipients, solvents, phase transition and zeta potential

There has been a steady increase in the interest towards employing nanoliposomes as colloidal drug delivery systems, particularly in the last few years. Their biocompatibility nature along with the possibility of encapsulation of lipid-soluble, water-soluble and amphipathic molecules and compounds are among the advantages of employing these lipidic nanocarriers. A challenge in the successful formulation of nanoliposomal systems is to control the critical physicochemical properties, which impact their in vivo performance, and validating analytical techniques that can adequately characterize these nanostructures. Of particular interest are the chemical composition of nanoliposomes, their phase transition temperature, state of the encapsulated material, encapsulation efficiency, particle size distribution, morphology, internal structure, lamellarity, surface charge, and drug release pattern. These attributes are highly important in revealing the supramolecular arrangement of nanoliposomes and incorporated drugs and ensuring the stability of the formulation as well as consistent drug delivery to target tissues. In this article, we present characterization of nanoliposomal formulations as an example to illustrate identification of key in vitro characteristics of a typical nanotherapeutic agent. Corresponding analytical techniques are discussed within the context of nanoliposome assessment, single particle analysis and ensuring uniform manufacture of therapeutic formulations with batch-to-batch consistency.

Enhancing the Therapeutic Efficacy of Tamoxifen Citrate Loaded Span-Based Nano-Vesicles on Human Breast Adenocarcinoma Cells

Serious adverse effects and low selectivity to cancer cells are the main obstacles of long term therapy with Tamoxifen (Tmx). This study aimed to develop Tmx-loaded span-based nano-vesicles for delivery to malignant tissues with maximum efficacy. The effect of three variables on vesicle size (Y₁), zeta potential (Y₂), entrapment efficiency (Y₃) and the cumulative percent release after 24 h (Y₄) were optimized using Box-Behnken design. The optimized formula was prepared and tested for its stability in different storage conditions. The observed values for the optimized formula were 310.2 nm, - 42.09 mV, 75.45 and 71.70% for Y₁, Y₂, Y₃, and Y₄, respectively. The examination using electron microscopy confirmed the formation of rounded vesicles with distinctive bilayer structure. Moreover, the cytotoxic activity of the optimized formula on both breast cancer cells (MCF-7) and normal cells (BHK) showed enhanced selectivity (9.4 folds) on cancerous cells with IC₅₀ values 4.7 ± 1.5 and 44.3 ± 1.3 μg/ml on cancer and normal cells, respectively. While, free Tmx exhibited lower selectivity (2.5 folds) than optimized nano-vesicles on cancer cells with IC₅₀ values of 9.0 ± 1.1 μg/ml and 22.5 ± 5.3 μg/ml on MCF-7 and BHK cells, respectively. The promising prepared vesicular system, with greater efficacy and selectivity, provides a marvelous tool to overcome breast cancer treatment challenges.

Synthesis of ultrasound contrast agents: characteristics and size distribution analysis (secondary publication)

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to establish a method for ultrasound (US) contrast agent synthesis and to evaluate the characteristics of the synthesized US contrast agent.

METHODS

A US contrast agent, composed of liposome and sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆), was synthesized by dissolving 21 μmol 1,2-dihexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC, C₄₀H₈₀NO₈P), 9 μmol cholesterol, and 1.9 μmol of dihexadecylphosphate (DCP, [CH₃(CH₂)15O]₂P(O)OH) in chloroform. After evaporation in a warm water bath and drying for 12-24 hours, the contrast agent was synthesized using the sonication process by the addition of a buffer and SF₆ gas. The size distribution of the bubbles was analyzed using dynamic light scattering measurement methods. The degradation curve was evaluated by assessing the change in the number of contrast agent bubbles using light microscopy immediately, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, and 84 hours after synthesis. The echogenicity of the synthesized microbubbles was compared with commercially available microbubbles (SonoVue, Bracco).

RESULTS

contrast agent was synthesized successfully using an evaporation-drying-sonication method. Most bubbles had a mean diameter of 154.2 nm and showed marked degradation 24 hours after synthesis. Although no statistically significant differences were observed between SonoVue and the synthesized contrast agent, a difference in echogenicity was observed between the synthesized contrast agent and saline (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

We successfully synthesized a US contrast agent using an evaporation-dryingsonication method. These results may help future research in the fields of anticancer drug delivery, gene delivery, targeted molecular imaging, and targeted therapy.

Preformulation Studies of a Liposomal Formulation Containing Sirolimus for the Treatment of Dry Eye Disease

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to develop and characterize a liposomal product containing sirolimus to be administered subconjunctivally for the treatment of nonresponsive keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or dry eye.

METHODS

Formulations were prepared using an ethanol injection method and an adaptation of the heating method in pursuance of the most suitable methodology for future industrial production. Liposomes were loaded with either a high dose of 1 mg/mL of sirolimus or a less toxic dose of 0.4 mg/mL. The effects of critical process and formulation parameters were investigated. Liposomes were characterized in terms of size, zeta potential, polydispersity, differential scanning calorimetry, morphology, entrapment efficiency, phospholipid content, thermal stability, and sterility. The formulation was evaluated clinically in dogs with spontaneous KCS.

RESULTS

Sterile liposomal dispersions with sizes ranging from 140 to 211 nm, were successfully obtained. High entrapment efficiency of 93%-98% was achieved. The heating method allowed an easier production of liposomes with high entrapment efficiency, to significantly shorten production time and the elimination of the use of alcohol. The poor stability of the obtained liposomes in aqueous dispersion made the inclusion of a lyophilization step necessary to the manufacturing process. In vivo testing of the liposomal sirolimus formulations in the spontaneous KCS dog model have produced promising results, particularly with a sirolimus dose of 1 mg/mL, indicating the need for further development and study of proposed formulations in the treatment of canine KCS. Clinical improvement in tear production in dogs with spontaneous KCS treated with the 1 mg/mL dose product was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The heating method allowed easier production of high entrapment efficiency liposomes to significantly shorten production time and the elimination of the use of alcohol. Tear production was increased in dogs administered with the formulation.

Adsorption of DNA onto anionic lipid surfaces

Currently self-assembled DNA delivery systems composed of DNA multivalent cations and anionic lipids are considered to be promising tools for gene therapy. These systems become an alternative to traditional cationic lipid-DNA complexes because of their low cytotoxicity lipids. However, currently these nonviral gene delivery methods exhibit low transfection efficiencies. This feature is in large part due to the poorly understood DNA complexation mechanisms at the molecular level. It is well-known that the adsorption of DNA onto like charged lipid surfaces requires the presence of multivalent cations that act as bridges between DNA and anionic lipids. Unfortunately, the molecular mechanisms behind such adsorption phenomenon still remain unclear. Accordingly a historical background of experimental evidence related to adsorption and complexation of DNA onto anionic lipid surfaces mediated by different multivalent cations is firstly reviewed. Next, recent experiments aimed to characterise the interfacial adsorption of DNA onto a model anionic phospholipid monolayer mediated by Ca(2+) (including AFM images) are discussed. Afterwards, modelling studies of DNA adsorption onto charged surfaces are summarised before presenting preliminary results obtained from both CG and all-atomic MD computer simulations. Our results allow us to establish the optimal conditions for cation-mediated adsorption of DNA onto negatively charged surfaces. Moreover, atomistic simulations provide an excellent framework to understand the interaction between DNA and anionic lipids in the presence of divalent cations. Accordingly,our simulation results in conjunction go beyond the macroscopic picture in which DNA is stuck to anionic membranes by using multivalent cations that form glue layers between them. Structural aspects of the DNA adsorption and molecular binding between the different charged groups from DNA and lipids in the presence of divalent cations are reported in the last part of the study. Although this research work is far from biomedical applications, we truly believe that scientific advances in this line will assist, at least in part, in the rational design and development of optimal carrier systems for genes and applicable to other drugs.

Optimization on preparation condition of polyunsaturated fatty acids nanoliposome prepared by Mozafari method

This study presents the application of the response surface methodology (design) to develop an optimal preparation condition (independent variables) namely shear rate (600-1000 rpm), mixing time (30-60 min), and sonication time (10-20 min) for polyunsaturated fatty acids (docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid) nanoliposomes. Fifteen lipid mixtures were generated by the Box-Behnken design and nanoliposomes were prepared by the Mozafari (direct hydration and without using organic solvents) method. Nanoliposomes were characterized with respect to entrapment efficiency (EE) and vesicle size as Y1 and Y2 dependent variables, respectively. The results were then applied to estimate the coefficients of response surface model and to find the optimal preparation conditions with maximum EE and minimum vesicle size. The response surface analysis exhibited that the significant (p < 0.05) second-order polynomial regression equations were successfully fitted for all dependent variables with no significant (p > 0.05) lack of fit for the reduced models. The response optimization of experiments was the shear rate: 795 rpm; mixing time: 60 min; and sonication time: 10 min. The optimal nanoliposome had an average diameter of 81.4 nm and EE of 100%. The experimental results of optimal nanoliposomes characterization confirmed an accurate fitness of the predicted values by reduced response surface models.

Large scale preparation of midkine antisense oligonucleotides nanoliposomes by a cross-flow injection technique combined with ultrafiltration and high-pressure extrusion procedures

The midkine antisense oligonucleotide (MK-ASODN, 5'-CCC CGG GCC GCC CTT CTT CA-3') nanoliposomes have been identified to suppress hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) growth effectively, and have a great potential to be an effective target drug for HCC. In this study, a facile and reproducible method for large-scale preparation of MK-ASODN nanoliposomes followed by lyophilization has been developed successfully. Meanwhile, the MK-ASODN nanoliposomes characteristics, storage stability and their antitumor efficiency were studied. The mean particle size of MK-ASODN nanoliposomes were 229.43±15.11 nm, and the zeta potential were 29.7±1.1 mV. High entrapment efficiency values were achieved around 90%. Transmission electron microscopy images revealed spherical shaped nanoliposomes. Nanoliposomes allowed sustained MK-ASODN release for as long as 14 days. During 180 days of storage, freeze-dried nanoliposomes showed no significant change in the mean size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency and drug release ratio. Regarding their antitumor efficiency, the in vitro proliferation of human liver cancer cells were significantly inhibited by the MK-ASODN nanoliposomes. Furthermore, the MK-ASOND nanoliposomes also significantly inhibited the growth of HCC in the mouse model. In summary, the results confirmed that this large-scale preparation of MK-ASOND nanoliposomes was facile and reproducible, and potentially, could speed up the application process of our MK-ASOND nanoliposomes for HCC therapy.

Degradation of an old human protein: age-dependent cleavage of γS-crystallin generates a peptide that binds to cell membranes

Long-lived proteins exist in a number of tissues in the human body; however, little is known about the reactions involved in their degradation over time. Lens proteins, which do not turn over, provide a useful system to examine such processes. Using a combination of Western blotting and proteomic methodology, age-related changes to a major protein, γS-crystallin, were studied. By teenage years, insoluble intact γS-crystallin was detected, indicative of protein denaturation. This was not the only change, however, because blots revealed evidence of significant cross-linking as well as cleavage of γS-crystallin in all adult lenses. Cleavage at a serine residue near the C terminus was a major reaction that caused the release of a 12-residue peptide, SPAVQSFRRIVE, which bound tightly to lens cell membranes. Several other crystallin-derived peptides with double basic residues also lodged in the cell membrane fraction. Model studies showed that once cleaved from γS-crystallin, SPAVQSFRRIVE adopts a markedly different shape from that in the intact protein. Further, the acquired helical conformation may explain why the peptide seems to affect water permeability. This observation may help explain the changes to cell membranes known to be associated with aging in human lenses. Age-related cleavage of long-lived proteins may therefore yield peptides with untoward biological activity.

Recent advances in nonviral vectors for gene delivery

Gene therapy has long been regarded a promising treatment for many diseases, whether acquired (such as AIDS or cancer) or inherited through a genetic disorder. A drug based on a nucleic acid, however, must be delivered to the interior of the target cell while surviving an array of biological defenses honed by evolution. Successful gene therapy is thus dependent on the development of an efficient delivery vector. Researchers have pursued two major vehicles for gene delivery: viral and nonviral (synthetic) vectors. Although viral vectors currently offer greater efficiency, nonviral vectors, which are typically based on cationic lipids or polymers, are preferred because of safety concerns with viral vectors. So far, nonviral vectors can readily transfect cells in culture, but efficient nanomedicines remain far removed from the clinic. Overcoming the obstacles associated with nonviral vectors to improve the delivery efficiency and therapeutic effect of nucleic acids is thus an active area of current research. The difficulties are manifold, including the strong interaction of cationic delivery vehicles with blood components, uptake by the reticuloendothelial system (RES), toxicity, and managing the targeting ability of the carriers with respect to the cells of interest. Modifying the surface with poly(ethylene glycol), that is, PEGylation, is the predominant method used to reduce the binding of plasma proteins to nonviral vectors and minimize clearance by the RES after intravenous administration. Nanoparticles that are not rapidly cleared from the circulation accumulate in the tumors because of the enhanced permeability and retention effect, and the targeting ligands attached to the distal end of the PEGylated components allow binding to the receptors on the target cell surface. Neutral and anionic liposomes have been also developed for systemic delivery of nucleic acids in experimental animal models. Other approaches include (i) designing and synthesizing novel cationic lipids and polymers, (ii) chemically coupling the nucleic acid to peptides, targeting ligands, polymers, or environmentally sensitive moieties, and (iii) utilizing inorganic nanoparticles in nucleic acid delivery. Recently, the different classes of nonviral vectors appear to be converging, and the ability to combine features of different classes of nonviral vectors in a single strategy has emerged. With the strengths of several approaches working in concert, more hurdles associated with efficient nucleic acid delivery might therefore be overcome. In this Account, we focus on these novel nonviral vectors, which are classified as multifunctional hybrid nucleic acid vectors, novel membrane/core nanoparticles for nucleic acid delivery, and ultrasound-responsive nucleic acid vectors. We highlight systemic delivery studies and consider the future prospects for nucleic acid delivery. A better understanding of the fate of the nanoparticles inside the cell and of the interactions between the parts of hybrid particles should lead to a delivery system suitable for clinical use. We also underscore the value of sustained release of a nucleic acid in this endeavor; making vectors targeted to cells with sustained release in vivo should provide an interesting research challenge.

The applications of nanotechnology in food industry

Nanotechnology has the potential of application in the food industry and processing as new tools for pathogen detection, disease treatment delivery systems, food packaging, and delivery of bioactive compounds to target sites. The application of nanotechnology in food systems will provide new methods to improve safety and the nutritional value of food products. This article will review the current advances of applications of nanotechnology in food science and technology. Also, it describes new current food laws for nanofood and novel articles in the field of risk assessment of using nanotechnology in the food industry.

Lipid nanoparticle purification by spin centrifugation-dialysis (SCD): a facile and high-throughput approach for small scale preparation of siRNA-lipid complexes

This paper describes the use of spin centrifugation-dialysis (SCD) for small-scale concentration/purification of siRNA-lipid complexes designed for use as therapeutic agents for gene silencing. SCD consists of a two-step method for concentration, filtration and buffer exchange of lipid nanoparticles (LNP) to provide a homogeneous preparation suitable for injection. Here, we compare SCD with the more traditionally used tangential flow filtration (TFF), and demonstrate the physicochemical and biological comparability of LNPs produced with both methods. TFF is a highly scalable method used in both developmental and production applications, but is limited in terms of miniaturization. In contrast to TFF, SCD is faster, less expensive, and requires less oversight for assembling LNPs for small-scale applications, such as target screening both in vitro and in vivo. The finding that SCD is a viable method for filtering LNPs in a manner similar to TFF, producing particles with comparable properties and biological activity, is significant given the complexity and sensitivity of LNPs to processing conditions.