Biocompatible silver, gold and silver/gold alloy nanoparticles for enhanced cancer therapy: in vitro and in vivo perspectives

Exploring the biocompatibility and healing activity of actinobacterial-enhanced reduced nano-graphene oxide in in vitro and in vivo model and induce bone regeneration through modulation of OPG/RANKL/RUNX2/ALP pathways

BACKGROUND

The development of cost-effective, simple, environment-friendly biographene is an area of interest. To accomplish environmentally safe, benign culturing that has advantages over other methods to reduce the graphene oxide (GO), extracellular metabolites from actinobacteria associated with mushrooms were used for the first time.

METHODS

Bactericidal effect of GO against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, antioxidant activity, and hydroxyapatite-like bone layer formation, gene expression analysis and appropriate biodegradation of the microbe-mediated synthesis of graphene was studied.

RESULTS

Isolated extracellular contents Streptomyces achromogenes sub sp rubradiris reduced nano-GO to graphene (rGO), which was further examined by spectrometry and suggested an efficient conversion and significant reduction in the intensity of all oxygen-containing moieties and shifted crystalline peaks. Electron microscopic results also suggested the reduction of GO layer. In addition, absence of significant toxicity in MG-63 cell line, intentional free radical scavenging prowess, liver and kidney histopathology, and Wistar rat bone regeneration through modulation of OPG/RANKL/RUNX2/ALP pathways show the feasibility of the prepared nano GO.

CONCLUSIONS

The study demonstrates the successful synthesis of biographene from actinobacterial extracellular metabolites, its potential biomedical applications, and its promising role in addressing health and environmental concerns.

Probiotic-derived silver nanoparticles target mTOR/MMP-9/BCL-2/dependent AMPK activation for hepatic cancer treatment

Recent advances in nanotechnology have offered novel ways to combat cancer. By utilizing the reducing capabilities of Lactobacillus acidophilus, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are synthesized. The anti-cancer properties of AgNPs have been demonstrated in previous studies against several cancer cell lines; it has been hypothesized that these compounds might inhibit AMPK/mTOR signalling and BCL-2 expression. Consequently, the current research used both in vitro and in silico approaches to study whether Lactobacillus acidophilus AgNPs could inhibit cell proliferation autophagy and promote apoptosis in HepG2 cells. The isolated strain was identified as Lactobacillus acidophilus strain RBIM based on 16 s rRNA gene analysis. Based on our research findings, it has been observed that this particular strain can generate increased quantities of AgNPs when subjected to optimal growing conditions. The presence of silanols, carboxylates, phosphonates, and siloxanes on the surface of AgNPs was confirmed using FTIR analysis. AgNPs were configured using UV-visible spectroscopy at 425 nm. In contrast, it was observed that apoptotic cells exhibited orange-coloured bodies due to cellular shrinkage and blebbing initiated by AgNP treatment, compared to non-apoptotic cells. It is worth mentioning that AgNPs exhibited remarkable selectivity in inducing cell death, specifically in HepG2 cells, unlike normal WI-38 cells. The half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for HepG2 and WI-38 cells were 4.217 µg/ml and 154.1 µg/ml, respectively. AgNPs induce an upregulation in the synthesis of inflammation-associated cytokines, including (TNF-α and IL-33), within HepG2 cells. AgNPs co-treatment led to higher glutathione levels and activating pro-autophagic genes such as AMPK.Additionally, it resulted in the suppression of mTOR, MMP-9, BCL-2, and α-SMA gene expression. The docking experiments suggest that the binding of AgNPs to the active site of the AMPK enzyme leads to inhibiting its activity. The inhibition of AMPK ultimately results in the suppression of the mechanistic mTOR and triggers apoptosis in HepG2 cells. In conclusion, the results of our study indicate that the utilization of AgNPs may represent a viable strategy for the eradication of liver cancerous cells through the activation of apoptosis and the enhancement of immune system reactions.

Process optimization for gold nanoparticles biosynthesis by Streptomyces albogriseolus using artificial neural network, characterization and antitumor activities

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are highly promising in cancer therapy, wound healing, drug delivery, biosensing, and biomedical imaging. Furthermore, GNPs have anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, antioxidants, anti-proliferative and anti-diabetic effects. The present study presents an eco-friendly approach for GNPs biosynthesis using the cell-free supernatant of Streptomyces albogriseolus as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The biosynthesized GNPs have a maximum absorption peak at 540 nm. The TEM images showed that GNPs ranged in size from 5.42 to 13.34 nm and had a spherical shape. GNPs have a negatively charged surface with a Zeta potential of - 24.8 mV. FTIR analysis identified several functional groups including C-H, -OH, C-N, amines and amide groups. The crystalline structure of GNPs was verified by X-ray diffraction and the well-defined and distinct diffraction rings observed by the selected area electron diffraction analysis. To optimize the biosynthesis of GNPs using the cell-free supernatant of S. albogriseolus, 30 experimental runs were conducted using central composite design (CCD). The artificial neural network (ANN) was employed to analyze, validate, and predict GNPs biosynthesis compared to CCD. The maximum experimental yield of GNPs (778.74 μg/mL) was obtained with a cell-free supernatant concentration of 70%, a HAuCl4 concentration of 800 μg/mL, an initial pH of 7, and a 96-h incubation time. The theoretically predicted yields of GNPs by CCD and ANN were 809.89 and 777.32 μg/mL, respectively, which indicates that ANN has stronger prediction potential compared to the CCD. The anticancer activity of GNPs was compared to that of doxorubicin (Dox) in vitro against the HeP-G2 human cancer cell line. The IC50 values of Dox and GNPs-based treatments were 7.26 ± 0.4 and 22.13 ± 1.3 µg/mL, respectively. Interestingly, treatments combining Dox and GNPs together showed an IC50 value of 3.52 ± 0.1 µg/mL, indicating that they targeted cancer cells more efficiently.

In situ engineering of Au-Ag alloy embedded PEDOT nanohybrids at a solvent/non-solvent interface for the electrochemical enzyme-free detection of histamine

Steadfast efforts have been made to develop novel materials and incorporate them into functional devices for practical applications, pushing the research on electroactive materials to the forefront of nano electronics. Liquid/liquid interface-assisted polymerization offers a scalable methodology to fabricate hybrid materials with multifunctional applications, in contrast to the conventional and ubiquitous routes. Here, we explored this efficient and versatile approach toward the in situ tailoring of Au-Ag alloy nanostructures with a conducting polymer, poly(3,4-ethylene-dioxythiophene) (PEDOT). With the appropriate choice of organic and inorganic phases for the distribution of monomer and oxidant, the miscibility restraints of the reactants in a single phase were alleviated. Effective nanostructure tuning of highly crystalline and electroactive PEDOT/Au-Ag alloy has been achieved by varying the molar ratio of Au³⁺/Ag⁺ in the reaction mixture. The as-synthesized composite is further explored to detect neuromodulator histamine (HA), which displays high sensitivity with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.5 nM, and selectivity even in the presence of various interfering analogs of 10-fold concentration. Subsequently, density functional theory (DFT) simulations are employed to assess the mode of interaction between HA and the electroactive surfaces. The competency to detect HA in preserved food entails its potential in food spoilage monitoring. Furthermore, the detection of histamine generated by sub-cultured human neuronal cells SH-SY5Y proves its practical viability in health monitoring devices.

Penetration and translocation of functional inorganic nanomaterials into biological barriers

With excellent physicochemical properties, inorganic nanomaterials (INMs) have exhibited a series of attractive applications in biomedical fields. Biological barriers prevent successful delivery of nanomedicine in living systems that limits the development of nanomedicine especially for sufficient delivery of drugs and effective therapy. Numerous researches have focused on overcoming these biological barriers and homogeneity of organisms to enhance therapeutic efficacy, however, most of these strategies fail to resolve these challenges. In this review, we present the latest progress about how INMs interact with biological barriers and penetrate these barriers. We also summarize that both native structure and components of biological barriers and physicochemical properties of INMs contributed to the penetration capacity. Knowledge about the relationship between INMs structure and penetration capacity will guide the design and application of functional and efficient nanomedicine in the future.

Biomedical Evaluation of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles by Jasminum Sambac (L.) Aiton Against Breast Cancer Cell Line, and Both Bacterial Strains Colonies

The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was conducted using the Iraqi Jasminum sambac (L.) Aiton leaves having substantial bioreduction and capping properties. The aqueous extract has been characterized using FTIR to observe changes in functional groups of extract compared to extract-AgNPs. GC-MS understands the mechanism synthesis of AgNPs based on the aqueous extract of J. sambac through identification of aqueous extracted. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV–Vis at 455[Formula: see text]nm, XRD broad chart owing to size of AgNPs and TEM (AgNPs average size less than 10[Formula: see text]nm). FESEM-EDX was carried out to observe the nearly spherical shape with elemental composition. DLS was appointed with hydrodynamic radius as 105.9[Formula: see text]nm and also had a good polydispersity at 0.357, and [Formula: see text]-potential at [Formula: see text]23.1. AgNPs have antibacterial gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli), cytotoxicity MTT assay against breast cancer MCF-7 cell line IC50 at 222.6[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL, genotoxicity fragmented DNA of MCF-7 by comet assay, emphasized apoptosis cells through cell cycle flow cytometry. Overall, safe, cost-effective, and scalable biogenic nano-formulation of Jasminum sambac-AgNPs possesses antibacterial and anticancer therapeutic applications.

Understanding Nanomaterial-Liver Interactions to Facilitate the Development of Safer Nanoapplications

Nanomaterials (NMs) are widely used in commercial and medical products, such as cosmetics, vaccines, and drug carriers. Exposure to NMs via various routes such as dermal, inhalation, and ingestion has been shown to gain access to the systemic circulation, resulting in the accumulation of NMs in the liver. The unique organ structures and blood flow features facilitate the liver sequestration of NMs, which may cause adverse effects in the liver. Currently, most in vivo studies are focused on NMs accumulation at the organ level and evaluation of the gross changes in liver structure and functions, however, cell-type-specific uptake and responses, as well as the molecular mechanisms at cellular levels leading to effects at organ levels are lagging. Herein, the authors systematically review diverse interactions of NMs with the liver, specifically on major liver cell types including Kupffer cells (KCs), liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and hepatocytes as well as the detailed molecular mechanisms involved. In addition, the knowledge gained on nano-liver interactions that can facilitate the development of safer nanoproducts and nanomedicine is also reviewed.

Composition-Dependent Cytotoxic and Antibacterial Activity of Biopolymer-Capped Ag/Au Bimetallic Nanoparticles against Melanoma and Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens

Nanostructured silver (Ag) and gold (Au) are widely known to be potent biocidal and cytotoxic agents as well as biocompatible nanomaterials. It has been recently reported that combining both metals in a specific chemical composition causes a significant enhancement in their antibacterial activity against antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, as well as in their anticancer effects, while preserving cytocompatibility properties. In this work, Ag/Au bimetallic nanoparticles over a complete atomic chemical composition range were prepared at 10 at% through a green, highly reproducible, and simple approach using starch as a unique reducing and capping agent. The noble metal nanosystems were thoroughly characterized by different analytical techniques, including UV-visible and FT-IR spectroscopies, XRD, TEM/EDS, XPS and ICP-MS. Moreover, absorption spectra simulations for representative colloidal Ag/Au-NP samples were conducted using FDTD modelling. The antibacterial properties of the bimetallic nanoparticles were determined against multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, showing a clear dose-dependent inhibition even at the lowest concentration tested (5 µg/mL). Cytocompatibility assays showed a medium range of toxicity at low and intermediate concentrations (5 and 10 µg/mL), while triggering an anticancer behavior, even at the lowest concentration tested, in a process involving reactive oxygen species production per the nanoparticle Au:Ag ratio. In this manner, this study provides promising evidence that the presently fabricated Ag/Au-NPs should be further studied for a wide range of antibacterial and anticancer applications.

Therapeutic effect of dithiophenolato chitosan nanocomposites against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Our previous study showed that dithiophenolate (DTP) and its chitosan nanoparticles (DTP-CSNPs) have abilities to bind with DNA helixes. So in this study, their lethal doses (LD₅₀) and therapeutic roles against rat liver injuries induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) were evaluated. The study focused on the determination of the markers of oxidative stress (OS) and apoptosis and compare the results with those of cisplatin treatment. The results revealed that LD₅₀ values of DTP and DTP-CSNPs are 2187.5 and 1462.5 mg/kg, respectively. Treatment with DPT and DPT-CSNPs after CCl₄ administration reduced liver injuries, induced by CCl₄, and improved liver functions and architecture through the reduction of OS and apoptosis. Where the oxidant marker was decreased with elevations of antioxidant markers. Also, there was an elevation in Bcl-2 value, with decreases in caspase-8, Bax, and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. DPT-CSNPs treatment gave preferable results than those treated with DPT. Moreover, DTP and DPT-CSNPs treatment gave better results than cisplatin treatment. The administration of healthy rats with low doses of DTP and DTP-CSNPs for 14 days had no effect. Otherwise, the study on HepG2 cell line showed that DTP and DPT-CSNPs inhibited cell growth by arresting cells in the G2/M phase and inducing cell death. In conclusion, DTP and DTP-CSNPs have antiapoptotic and anti-oxidative stress toward hepatotoxicity induced by CCl₄. Moreover, DTP and DTP-CSNPs have anticancer activity against the HepG2 cell line. Generally, DTP-CSNPs are more effective than DTP. So, they can be used in the pharmacological fields, especially DTP-CSNPs.

Cancer Therapy by Silver Nanoparticles: Fiction or Reality?

As an emerging new class, metal nanoparticles and especially silver nanoparticles hold great potential in the field of cancer biology. Due to cancer-specific targeting, the consequently attenuated side-effects and the massive anti-cancer features render nanoparticle therapeutics desirable platforms for clinically relevant drug development. In this review, we highlight those characteristics of silver nanoparticle-based therapeutic concepts that are unique, exploitable, and achievable, as well as those that represent the critical hurdle in their advancement to clinical utilization. The collection of findings presented here will describe the features that distinguish silver nanoparticles from other anti-cancer agents and display the realistic opportunities and implications in oncotherapeutic innovations to find out whether cancer therapy by silver nanoparticles is fiction or reality.

A Titanium (IV)-Dithiophenolate Complex and Its Chitosan Nanocomposite: Their Roles towards Rat Liver Injuries In Vivo and against Human Liver Cancer Cell Lines

Titanium (IV)–dithiophenolate complex chitosan nanocomposites (DBT–CSNPs) are featured by their antibacterial activities, cytotoxicity, and capacity to bind with DNA helixes. In this study, their therapeutic effects against rat liver damage induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) and their anti-proliferative activity against human liver cancer (HepG2) cell lines were determined. Results of treatment were compared with cisplatin treatment. Markers of apoptosis, oxidative stress, liver functions, and liver histopathology were determined. The results showed that DBT–CSNPs and DBT treatments abolished liver damage induced by CCl₄ and improved liver architecture and functions. DNA fragmentation, Bax, and caspase-8 were reduced, but Bcl-2 and the Bcl-2/Bax ratios were increased. However, there was a non-significant change in the oxidative stress markers. DBT–CSNPs and DBT inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 cells by arresting cells in the G2/M phase and inducing cell death. DBT–CSNPs were more efficient than DBT. Low doses of DBT and DBT–CSNPs applied to healthy rats for 14 days had no adverse effect. DBT and DBT–CSNP treatment gave preferable results than the treatment with cisplatin. In conclusion, DBT–CSNPs and DBT have anti-apoptotic activities against liver injuries and have anti-neoplastic impacts. DBT–CSNPs are more efficient. Both compounds can be used in pharmacological fields.

Facile Green, Room-Temperature Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles Using Combretum erythrophyllum Leaf Extract: Antibacterial and Cell Viability Studies against Normal and Cancerous Cells

We herein report a facile, green, cost-effective, plant-mediated synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for the first time using Combretum erythrophyllum (CE) plant leaves. The synthesis was conducted at room temperature using CE leaf extract serving as a reducing and capping agent. The as-synthesized AuNPs were found to be crystalline, well dispersed, and spherical in shape with an average diameter of 13.20 nm and an excellent stability of over 60 days. The AuNPs showed broad-spectrum antibacterial activities against both pathogenic Gram-positive (Staphylococcus epidermidis (ATCC14990), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Mycobacterium smegmatis (MC 215)) and Gram-negative bacteria (Proteus mirabilis (ATCC 7002), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 13822), Klebsiella oxytoca (ATCC 8724)), with a minimum inhibition concentration of 62.5 µg/mL. In addition, the as-synthesized AuNPs were highly stable with exceptional cell viability towards normal cells (BHK- 21) and cancerous cancer cell lines (cervical and lung cancer).

Recent Advances in Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Magnetic Plasmonic Particles for Bioapplications

The surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technique, that uses magnetic plasmonic particles (MPPs), is an advanced SERS detection platform owing to the synergetic effects of the particles’ magnetic and plasmonic properties. As well as being an ultrasensitive and reliable SERS material, MPPs perform various functions, such as aiding in separation, drug delivery, and acting as a therapeutic material. This literature discusses the structure and multifunctionality of MPPs, which has enabled the novel application of MPPs to various biological fields.

Biocompatible Iron-Boron Nanoparticles Designed for Neutron Capture Therapy Guided by Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The combination of multiple functions in a single nanoparticle (NP) represents a key advantage of nanomedicine compared to traditional medical approaches. This is well represented by radiotherapy in which the dose of ionizing radiation should be calibrated on sensitizers biodistribution. Ideally, this is possible when the drug acts both as radiation enhancer and imaging contrast agent. Here, an easy, one-step, laser-assisted synthetic procedure is used to generate iron-boron (Fe-B) NPs featuring the set of functions required to assist neutron capture therapy (NCT) with magnetic resonance imaging. The Fe-B NPs exceed by three orders of magnitude the payload of boron isotopes contained in clinical sensitizers. The Fe-B NPs have magnetic properties of interest also for magnetophoretic accumulation in tissues and magnetic hyperthermia to assist drug permeation in tissues. Besides, Fe-B NPs are biocompatible and undergo slow degradation in the lysosomal environment that facilitates in vivo clearance through the liver-spleen-kidneys pathway. Overall, the Fe-B NPs represent a new promising tool for future exploitation in magnetic resonance imaging-guided boron NCT at higher levels of efficacy and tolerability.

Colloidal Stability and Cytotoxicity of Polydopamine-Conjugated Gold Nanorods against Prostate Cancer Cell Lines

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Cell invasion is an important step in the process of cancer metastasis. Herein, gold nanorods (GNRs) and polyethylene glycol (PEG)-coated GNRs were conjugated with polydopamine (PDA). The PDA-nanoconjugates demonstrated excellent colloidal stability upon lyophilization and dispersion in cell culture media with or without the addition of fetal bovine albumin (FBS), compared to unconjugated GNRs. PDA-nanoconjugates exhibited a considerable cytotoxicity against DU-145 and PC3 prostate cancer cell lines over a concentration range of 48 μg/mL-12 μg/mL, while they were biocompatible over a concentration range of 3.0 μg/mL-0.185 μg/mL. Furthermore, PDA-nanoconjugates demonstrated possible anti-invasion activity towards prostate cancer cell lines, particularly DU-145 cell line, by reducing cell migration and cell adhesion properties. The PDA-nanoconjugates could be considered a promising nano-platform toward cancer treatment by reducing the invasion activity; it could also be considered a drug delivery system for chemotherapeutic agents.

Electrostatically bound lanreotide peptide - gold nanoparticle conjugates for enhanced uptake in SSTR2-positive cancer cells

Lanreotide peptide (LP) has high affinity to somatostatin receptors like SSTR2 and is commonly used in the treatment of neuro-endocrine tumors. The main objective of this study is to target gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) towards SSTR2-positive cancer cells using lanreotide peptide (LP) as the targeting agent for enhanced tumor uptake and antitumor activity. pH mediated changes in the surface potential of LP and AuNP is used to prepare electrostatically bound AuNP-LP complexes. AuNP-LP complex formation was demonstrated by UV-Visible spectroscopy, surface potential, dynamic light scattering (DLS), small angle X-ray scattering and HR-TEM. Confocal microscopy and flow cytometric studies show that AuNP-LP complex has higher cellular uptake in SSTR2 expressed cancer cells (MCF-7 and AR42J) than in CHO cells. The enhanced cellular uptake of LP coated AuNPs lead to ~1.5 to 2-fold GSH depletion and enhanced ROS generation in MCF-7 cells. The preferential cytotoxicity of the AuNP-LP complex towards MCF-7 and AR42J cells, as revealed by MTT assay, is consistent with the increased cellular uptake. Our studies demonstrate that LP coated AuNP can be used as an effective platform to selectively target SSTR2 positive cancer cells for combination therapy approaches involving gold nanoparticles.

Synthesis, Properties, and Biological Applications of Metallic Alloy Nanoparticles

Metallic alloy nanoparticles are synthesized by combining two or more different metals. Bimetallic or trimetallic nanoparticles are considered more effective than monometallic nanoparticles because of their synergistic characteristics. In this review, we outline the structure, synthesis method, properties, and biological applications of metallic alloy nanoparticles based on their plasmonic, catalytic, and magnetic characteristics.

All Roads Lead to the Liver: Metal Nanoparticles and Their Implications for Liver Health

Metal nanoparticles (NPs) are frequently encountered in daily life, and concerns have been raised about their toxicity and safety. Among which, they naturally accumulate in the liver after introduction into the body, independent of the route of administration. Some NPs exhibit intrinsic pharmaceutical effects that are related to their physical parameters, and their inadvertent accumulation in the liver can exert strong effects on liver function and structure. Even as such physiological consequences are often categorically dismissed as toxic and deleterious, there are cell type-specific and NP-specific biological responses that elicit distinctive pharmacological consequences that can be harnessed for good. By limiting the scope of discussion to metallic NPs, this work attempts to provide a balanced perspective on their safety in the liver, and discusses both possible therapeutic benefits and potential accidental liver damage arising from their interaction with specific parenchymal and nonparenchymal cell types in the liver.

Prostate Cancer Cellular Uptake of Ternary Titanate Nanotubes/CuFe2O4/Zn-Fe Mixed Metal Oxides Nanocomposite

BACKGROUND

Certainly, there is a demand for stronger recognition of how nanoparticles can move through the cell membrane. Prostate cancer is one of the forcing sources of cancer-relevant deaths among men.

AIM OF THE WORK

The current research studied the power of prostate cancer cells to uptake a ternary nanocomposite TNT/CuFe2O4/Zn-Fe mixed metal oxides (MMO).

METHODOLOGY

The nanocomposite was synthesized by a chemical method and characterized by a High-resolution transmission electron microscope, Field emission scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transmission infra-red, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering. Besides, it was implemented as an inorganic anticancer agent versus Prostate cancer PC-3 cells.

RESULTS

The results revealed cellular uptake validity, cell viability reduction, ultra-structures alterations, morphological changes and membrane damage of PC-3 cells.

CONCLUSION

The prepared ternary nanocomposite was highly uptake by PC-3 cells and possessed cytotoxicity that was dose and time-dependent. To conclude, the study offered the potential of the investigated ternary nanocomposite as a promising prostate anticancer agent.

Green Nanotechnology-based Gold Nanomaterials for Hepatic Cancer Therapeutics: A Systematic Review

The objective of the current study was to systematically review the in-vitro anticancer activity of green synthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) against hepatic cancer cells. The articles were identified through electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Science Direct, ProQuest, and Cochrane. In total, 20 articles were found eligible to enter into our systematic review. Our findings showed that 65% of the articles used herbal extracts for the synthesis of AuNPs. Significantly, almost all of the articles stated the biofabrication of AuNPs below 100 nm in diameter. Impressively, most of the studies showed significant anticancer activity against HepG2 cells. Molecular studies stated the induction of apoptosis through the AuNPs-treated cells. We provided valuable information about the molecular mechanisms of AuNPs-induced cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells as well as their biocompatibility. The studies represented that AuNPs can be effective as anticancer drug nanocarrier for drug delivery systems. In addition, AuNP surface functionalization provides an opportunity to design multifunctional nanoparticles by conjugating them to diagnostic and/or therapeutic agents for theranostic purposes. Overall, our findings depicted considerable biogenic AuNPs-induced cytotoxicity, however, future studies should assess the anticancer activity of biogenic AuNPs through in-vivo studies, which was missing from such studies.

The rationale and emergence of electroconductive biomaterial scaffolds in cardiac tissue engineering

The human heart possesses minimal regenerative potential, which can often lead to chronic heart failure following myocardial infarction. Despite the successes of assistive support devices and pharmacological therapies, only a whole heart transplantation can sufficiently address heart failure. Engineered scaffolds, implantable patches, and injectable hydrogels are among the most promising solutions to restore cardiac function and coax regeneration; however, current biomaterials have yet to achieve ideal tissue regeneration and adequate integration due a mismatch of material physicochemical properties. Conductive fillers such as graphene, carbon nanotubes, metallic nanoparticles, and MXenes and conjugated polymers such as polyaniline, polypyrrole, and poly(3,4-ethylendioxythiophene) can possibly achieve optimal electrical conductivities for cardiac applications with appropriate suitability for tissue engineering approaches. Many studies have focused on the use of these materials in multiple fields, with promising effects on the regeneration of electrically active biological tissues such as orthopedic, neural, and cardiac tissue. In this review, we critically discuss the role of heart electrophysiology and the rationale toward the use of electroconductive biomaterials for cardiac tissue engineering. We present the emerging applications of these smart materials to create supportive platforms and discuss the crucial role that electrical stimulation has been shown to exert in maturation of cardiac progenitor cells.

Evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy of albendazole-loaded silver nanoparticles against Echinococcus granulosus infection in experimental mice

The drug of choice for treatment of hydatid disease, albendazole (ABZ) is a poorly water-soluble drug; thus, enhancing its solubility is required. Among metal nanoparticles (NPs), silver (Ag) NPs showed antimicrobial efficacies. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate nanosilver particles (Ag NPs) free or combined with albendazole against Echinococcus granulosus infection in vivo. In this study, besides the normal control group (GI) (n = 5), 80 mice were infected with 2000 viable protoscoleces intraperitoneally then divided equally (n = 20) into the infected control (GII), ABZ-treated (GIII), nanosilver-treated (GIV) and ABZ-loaded-Ag NPs-treated (GV) groups. On the 90th post-infection day, treatment was started and continued for 8 weeks then the experiment was terminated. Each mouse was subjected to measurement of hydatid cysts' sizes and weights, serum IFN-γ, liver enzymes; histopathological and transmission electron microscopy studies. In all treated groups, there were significant reductions of hydatid cysts' sizes and weights; however, the highest efficacy rate (63.9%) was detected in group V associated with obvious ultrastructure alterations of the cysts. The liver tissues of group II showed intense granulomatous reactions, congestion, fibrosis, necrosis and steatosis associated with significant increases in serum IFN-γ and liver enzymes. Interestingly, the best antiparasitic effect and the most significant reduction of IFN-γ towards the normal values were found in GV. Moreover, Ag NPs had reduced the toxic effects of ABZ such as necrosis, steatosis and the elevated serum liver enzymes. Therefore, loading ABZ on Ag NPs could be a potential method to improve ABZ efficacy against hydatid disease.

Green and simple synthesis route of Ag@AgCl nanomaterial using green marine crude extract and its application for sensitive and selective determination of mercury

Advanced exploitation in the green synthesis of nanomaterials has received considerable attention in the recent years. So that, an eco-friendly approach is proposed for the synthesis of silver‑silver chloride nanoparticles (Ag@AgCl-NPs) which does not require any external reducing & capping agents, organic solvent and external halide sources using an aqueous extract green marine alga (Chaetomorpha sp).In order to characterize the formation of Ag@AgCl-NPs, several instruments including UV-vis, FTIR, HR-TEM, EDS mapping, XRD, XPS, SAED and DLS were used. On the other hands, although numerous methods have been reported for the analysis of toxic Hg²⁺ in drinking water, development of simple, rapid, inexpensive, selective and sensitive sensors still remains a great challenge. Herein, the colorimetric sensor studies of this green synthesized Ag@AgCl-NPs showed an interesting feature for sensing of hazardous Hg²⁺ in water. The colorimetric assay is based on the concentration - dependent degradation of as-prepared Ag@AgCl-NPs in the presence of Hg²⁺. The detection limit of this affordable assay is 4.19 nM which is below the defined value by china agency and more importantly is below the defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for drinkable water.

Effects of treatment with gold nanoparticles in a model of acute pulmonary inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide

The bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a highly toxic molecule derived from the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. LPS endotoxin affects the lungs and is used as a model of acute pulmonary inflammation affecting the cellular morphology of the organ. Previously, gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have been shown to demonstrate anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activity in muscle and epithelial injury models. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of the intraperitoneal treatment using GNPs on the inflammatory response and pulmonary oxidative stress induced by LPS. Wistar rats were divided into four groups (N = 10): Sham; Sham + GNPs 2.5 mg/kg; LPS; and LPS + GNPs 2.5 mg/kg. Treatment with LPS upregulated the levels of markers of cellular and hepatic damage (CK, LDH, AST, and alanine aminotransferase); however, the group treated with only GNPs exhibited no toxicity. Treatment with GNPs reversed LPS-induced changes with respect to total peritoneal leukocyte count and the pulmonary levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ and IL-6). Histological analysis revealed that treatment with GNPs reversed the increase in alveolar septum thickness due to LPS-induced fibrosis. In addition, treatment with GNPs decreased production of oxidants (nitrite and DCFH), reduced oxidative damage (carbonyl and sulfhydryl), and downregulated activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase. Treatment with GNPs did not showed toxicity; however, it exhibited anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activity that reversed morphological alterations induced by LPS.

Multifunctionality of gold nanoparticles: Plausible and convincing properties

In a couple of decades, nanotechnology has become a trending area in science due to it covers all subject that combines diverse range of fields including but not limited to chemistry, physics and medicine. Various metal and metal oxide nanomaterials have been developed for wide range applications. However, the application of gold nanostructures and nanoparticles has been received more attention in various biomedical applications. The unique property of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) is surface plasmon resonance (SPR) that determine the size, shape and stability. The wide surface area of AuNPs eases the proteins, peptides, oligonucleotides, and many other compounds to tether and enhance the biological activity of AuNPs. AuNPs have multifunctionality including antimicrobial, anticancer, drug and gene delivery, sensing applications and imaging. This state-of-the-art review is focused on the role of unique properties of AuNPs in multifunctionality and its various applications.

3D Bioprinting: from Benches to Translational Applications

Over the last decades, the fabrication of 3D tissues has become commonplace in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. However, conventional 3D biofabrication techniques such as scaffolding, microengineering, and fiber and cell sheet engineering are limited in their capacity to fabricate complex tissue constructs with the required precision and controllability that is needed to replicate biologically relevant tissues. To this end, 3D bioprinting offers great versatility to fabricate biomimetic, volumetric tissues that are structurally and functionally relevant. It enables precise control of the composition, spatial distribution, and architecture of resulting constructs facilitating the recapitulation of the delicate shapes and structures of targeted organs and tissues. This Review systematically covers the history of bioprinting and the most recent advances in instrumentation and methods. It then focuses on the requirements for bioinks and cells to achieve optimal fabrication of biomimetic constructs. Next, emerging evolutions and future directions of bioprinting are discussed, such as freeform, high-resolution, multimaterial, and 4D bioprinting. Finally, the translational potential of bioprinting and bioprinted tissues of various categories are presented and the Review is concluded by exemplifying commercially available bioprinting platforms.

The biobehavior, biocompatibility and theranostic application of SPNS and Pd@Au nanoplates in rats and rabbits

On account of the fascinating surface plasmon resonance (SPR) properties, the ability of passively targeting tumors and remarkable biocompatibility, two-dimensional (2D) Pd-based nanomaterials have demonstrated wide application prospects in cancer theranostics. However, the used animal models for exploring the bioapplications and biosafety of 2D Pd-based nanomaterials were usually limited to mice. To further widen their biomedical applications and promote future clinical transformation, it is necessary to make a breakthrough in animal models. In this work, Sprague Dawley (SD) rats and New Zealand rabbits were used as the experimental animals and orthotopic liver tumors or subcutaneous tumors were induced in these animals. Taking ≈5 nm small Pd nanosheets (SPNS) and 30 nm Pd@Au nanoplates (Pd@Au) as the representative 2D Pd-based nanomaterials, we investigated their biobehaviors and biosafety in rat liver & subcutaneous tumor models and rabbit liver tumors. The results indicated that SPNS and Pd@Au could still effectively accumulate on the tumor sites of these bigger animal models by the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, and the accumulation effects were closely related to their sizes. Metabolism studies confirmed that SPNS could be excreted out of rats through urine. Moreover, based on the sufficient uptake by cancer cells and passive accumulation of SPNS and Pd@Au in subcutaneous tumors in rats, we performed photothermal therapy (PTT) in vitro and in vivo. Significant tumor growth inhibition illustrated that even though the animal model was dozens of times bigger than the mouse model, the 2D Pd-based nanomaterials satisfied the requirements of being an outstanding photothermal reagent. Finally, the hematological and histological examination results suggested that SPNS and Pd@Au had favorable biocompatibility in rats and rabbits at a given dose. We hope this work will drive the development of 2D Pd-based nanomaterials towards practical clinical applications and provide a guide for other theranostic nanoplatforms that will be applied in bigger animal tumor models in the future.

Impact of gold nanoparticles shape on their cytotoxicity against human osteoblast and osteosarcoma in in vitro model. Evaluation of the safety of use and anti-cancer potential

Due to development of nanotechnology and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) increasing use in different areas of medicine, especially in oncology, better understanding of their potential cytotoxicity is necessary to protect patients safety. Shape and size of AuNPs is an important modulator of their cytotoxicity. Therefore, we investigated the cytotoxicity of AuNPs rods (≈39 nm length, 18 nm width), AuNPs stars (≈ 215 nm) and AuNPs spheres (≈ 6.3 nm) against human fetal osteoblast (hFOB 1.19), osteosarcoma (143B, MG63) and pancreatic duct cell (hTERT-HPNE) lines by MTT and neutral-red uptake assay. Moreover, influence of AuNPs on level of proapoptotic protein (Bax) and anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2) was measured by western blot. Cellular uptake of nanoparticles and ultrastructure changes were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In the present study we have proven that AuNPs stars are the most cytotoxic against human cells. We observed that cancer cells are more susceptible to AuNPs cytotoxic effect. Furthermore, AuNPs rods and AuNPs stars caused increased expression of Bax and decreased expression of Bcl-2 protein in osteosarcoma cells. We found that AuNPs penetrated through the cell membrane and caused ultrastructural changes. Our results clearly demonstrated that the cytotoxicity of AuNPs was shape-dependent. AuNPs stars with the highest anti-cancer potential were also the most cytotoxic type of tested NPs, whereas AuNPs spheres which appears to be the safest one had small anti-cancer potential.

Short-term exposure to titanium, aluminum and niobium (Ti-6Al-4Nb) alloy powder can disturb the serum low-density lipoprotein concentrations and antioxidant profile in vital organs but not the behavior of male albino mice

A group of seven-week-old albino mice of both genders were orally administered with a suspension of 25 mg Ti-6Al-4Nb/ml of saline/kg body weight and evaluated in comparison with a control group of animals treated with saline. Evaluation of both the groups was conducted through behavioral tests (Rota rod, open field, novel object and light dark box test), blood biochemical tests [complete blood count and selected serum parameters ([cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, creatinine and triglycerides)] and on the basis of measured concentration of antioxidant metabolites (superoxide dismutase, catalase and lipid peroxidation) in vital organs (brain, heart, liver, kidney and lungs). Based upon the results of these tests, it has been found that the applied dose of Ti-6Al-4Nb alloy powder has not effect on physical and neurological outcome of these animals. However, it can increase low-density lipoprotein concentrations as well as disturb the H₂O₂ and lipid peroxidation associated metabolic pathways, especially in male albino mice. Whereas all other hematological indices and antioxidative stress parameters were unaffected.

Silver Nanomaterials in Contemporary Molecular Physiology Research

Silver nanoparticles have numerous potential applications in engineering, industry, biology and medicine. Because of their unique chemical properties, they have become the focus of many research teams all over the world. Silver nanoparticles may exhibit significant antimicrobial and anticancer effects, and they may be a valuable part of various bioassays and biosensors. However, the research on biological and medical uses of AgNPs is related with numerous potential problems and challenges that need to be overcome in the years ahead. Possible toxic effects of silver nanoparticles on living organisms represent a great concern, both in clinical medicine and public health. Nevertheless, in the future, it may be expected that all metallic nanomaterials, including the ones made from silver will greatly benefit almost all natural scientific fields. In this short review, we focus on the recent research on silver nanoparticles in experimental physiology, as well as other areas of fundamental and clinical medicine.

Screening Small Metabolites from Cells as Multifunctional Coatings Simultaneously Improves Nanomaterial Biocompatibility and Functionality

Currently, nanomaterials face a dilemma due to their advantageous properties and potential risks to human health. Here, a strategy to improve both nanomaterial biocompatibility and functionality is established by screening small metabolites from cells as nanomaterial coatings. A metabolomics analysis of cells exposed to nanosilver (nAg) integrates volcano plots (t-tests and fold change analysis), partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and significance analysis of microarrays (SAM) and identifies six metabolites (l-aspartic acid, l-malic acid, myoinositol, d-sorbitol, citric acid, and l-cysteine). The further analysis of cell viability, oxidative stress, and cell apoptosis reveals that d-sorbitol markedly reduces nAg cytotoxicity. Subsequently, small molecule loading, surface oxidation, and ionic release experiments support d-sorbitol as the optimal coating for nAg. Importantly, d-sorbitol loading improves the duration of the antibacterial activity of nAg against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The biocidal persistence of nAg-sorbitol is extended beyond 9 h, and the biocidal effects at 12 h are significantly higher than those of naked nAg. This work proposes a new strategy to improve the biocompatibility and functionality of nAg simultaneously by screening small metabolites from cells as nanomaterial functional coatings, a method that can be applied to mitigate the side effects of other nanomaterials.

Application of Light Scattering Techniques to Nanoparticle Characterization and Development

Over the years, the scientific importance of nanoparticles for biomedical applications has increased. The high stability and biocompatibility, together with the low toxicity of the nanoparticles developed lead to their use as targeted drug delivery systems, bioimaging systems, and biosensors. The wide range of nanoparticles size, from 10 nm to 1 μm, as well as their optical properties, allow them to be studied using microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. In order to be effectively used, the physicochemical properties of nanoparticle formulations need to be taken into account, namely, particle size, surface charge distribution, surface derivatization and/or loading capacity, and related interactions. These properties need to be optimized considering the final nanoparticle intended biodistribution and target. In this review, we cover light scattering based techniques, namely dynamic light scattering and zeta-potential, used for the physicochemical characterization of nanoparticles. Dynamic light scattering is used to measure nanoparticles size, but also to evaluate their stability over time in suspension, at different pH and temperature conditions. Zeta-potential is used to characterize nanoparticles surface charge, obtaining information about their stability and surface interaction with other molecules. In this review, we focus on nanoparticle characterization and application in infection, cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Green synthesis of gold and silver nanoparticles from Cannabis sativa (industrial hemp) and their capacity for biofilm inhibition

Background

Cannabis sativa (hemp) is a source of various biologically active compounds, for instance, cannabinoids, terpenes and phenolic compounds, which exhibit antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. With the purpose of expanding the auxiliary application of C. sativa in the field of bio-nanotechnology, we explored the plant for green and efficient synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs).

Methods and results

The nanoparticles were synthesized by utilizing an aqueous extract of C. sativa stem separated into two different fractions (cortex and core [xylem part]) without any additional reducing, stabilizing and capping agents. In the synthesis of AuNPs using the cortex enriched in bast fibers, fiber-AuNPs (F-AuNPs) were achieved. When using the core part of the stem, which is enriched with phenolic compounds such as alkaloids and cannabinoids, core-AuNPs (C-AuNPs) and core-AgNPs (C-AgNPs) were formed. Synthesized nanoparticles were character-ized by UV–visible analysis, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, dynamic light scattering, Fourier transform infrared, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight. In addition, the stable nature of nanoparticles has been shown by thermogravimetric analysis and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Finally, the AgNPs were explored for the inhibition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli biofilms.

Conclusion

The synthesized nanoparticles were crystalline with an average diameter between 12 and 18 nm for F-AuNPs and C-AuNPs and in the range of 20–40 nm for C-AgNPs. ICP-MS analysis revealed concentrations of synthesized nanoparticles as 0.7, 4.5 and 3.6 mg/mL for F-AuNPs, C-AuNPs and C-AgNPs, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed the presence of flavonoids, cannabinoids, terpenes and phenols on the nanoparticle surface, which could be responsible for reducing the salts to nanoparticles and further stabilizing them. In addition, the stable nature of synthesized nanoparticles has been shown by thermogravimetric analysis and ICP-MS. Finally, the AgNPs were explored for the inhibition of P. aeruginosa and E. coli biofilms. The nanoparticles exhibited minimum inhibitory concentration values of 6.25 and 5 µg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentration values of 12.5 and 25 µg/mL against P. aeruginosa and E. coli, respectively.

In vitro antimicrobial and in vivo wound healing effect of actinobacterially synthesised nanoparticles of silver, gold and their alloy

Antibacterial, antifungal and wound healing potential of actinobacterially synthesised Ag, Au and Ag/Au nanoparticles.