Nanoparticles: A New Approach to Upgrade Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Glycosylated nanoplatforms: From glycosylation strategies to implications and opportunities for cancer theranostics

Glycosylated nanoplatforms have emerged as promising tools in the field of cancer theranostics, integrating both therapeutic and diagnostic functionalities. These nanoscale platforms are composed of different materials such as lipids, polymers, carbons, and metals that can be modified with glycosyl moieties to enhance their targeting capabilities towards cancer cells. This review provides an overview of different modification strategies employed to introduce glycosylation onto nanoplatforms, including chemical conjugation, enzymatic methods, and bio-orthogonal reactions. Furthermore, the potential applications of glycosylated nanoplatforms in cancer theranostics are discussed, focusing on their roles in drug delivery, imaging, and combination therapy. The ability of these nanoplatforms to selectively target cancer cells through specific interactions with overexpressed glycan receptors is highlighted, emphasizing their potential for enhancing efficacy and reducing the side effects compared to conventional therapies. In addition, the incorporation of diagnostic components onto the glycosylated nanoplatforms provided the capability of simultaneous imaging and therapy and facilitated the real-time monitoring of treatment response. Finally, challenges and future perspectives in the development and translation of glycosylated nanoplatforms for clinical applications are addressed, including scalability, biocompatibility, and regulatory considerations. Overall, this review underscores the significant progress made in the field of glycosylated nanoplatforms and their potential to revolutionize cancer theranostics.

Revolution in Cancer Treatment: How Are Intelligently Designed Nanostructures Changing the Game?

Nanoparticles (NPs) are extremely important tools to overcome the limitations imposed by therapeutic agents and effectively overcome biological barriers. Smart designed/tuned nanostructures can be extremely effective for cancer treatment. The selection and design of nanostructures and the adjustment of size and surface properties are extremely important, especially for some precision treatments and drug delivery (DD). By designing specific methods, an important era can be opened in the biomedical field for personalized and precise treatment. Here, we focus on advances in the selection and design of nanostructures, as well as on how the structure and shape, size, charge, and surface properties of nanostructures in biological fluids (BFs) can be affected. We discussed the applications of specialized nanostructures in the therapy of head and neck cancer (HNC), which is a difficult and aggressive type of cancer to treat, to give an impetus for novel treatment approaches in this field. We also comprehensively touched on the shortcomings, current trends, and future perspectives when using nanostructures in the treatment of cancer.

Preparation of biogenic silver chloride nanoparticles from microalgae Spirulina Platensis extract: anticancer properties in MDA-MB231 breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Breast carcinoma is the second leading cause of cancer related-deaths among women. Given its high incidence and mortality rates, searching for innovative treatments represents a formidable challenge within the medical and pharmaceutical industries. This study delves into the preparation, characterization, and anticancer properties of silver chloride nanoparticles (AgCLNPs) as a novel therapeutic approach for breast cancer cells, employing a biological synthesis method.

METHODS

This investigation, utilized spirulina platensis extract to synthesize silver chloride nanoparticles (AgCLNPs-SP). The formation, size, and structure of the nanoparticles were characterized by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X-ray crystallography (XRD), and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. Additionally, the apoptotic and anticancer properties of AgCLNPs-SP were thoroughly examined.

RESULTS

The results, revealed AgCLNPs-SP to exhibit a spherical, morphology with a size range of 40-70 nm, primarily silver and chlorine. The dose-dependent response of AgCLNP-SP against MDA-MB231 cells was ascertained using the MTT Assay, with an IC50 value of 34 µg/mL. Furthermore, the Annexin V-FITC/ PI apoptosis assay demonstrated a significant proportion of early apoptosis (43.67%) in MDA-MB231 cells. This apoptosis process was substantiated by up-regulation in mRNA expression levels of P53, CAD, and Bax genes, alongside a down-regulation of the of bcl2 gene expression. Additionally, an augmented production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell cycle analysis, Hoechst staining assay, and evaluated levels of Caspase - 3, -8 and - 9 were observed in AgCLNPs-SP-treated MDA_MB231 cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the results suggest that AgCLNPs-SP may be a promising agent for treating breast cancer.

Nanobiomaterials: exploring mechanistic roles in combating microbial infections and cancer

The initiation of the "nanotechnology era" within the past decade has been prominently marked by advancements in biomaterials. This intersection has opened up numerous possibilities for enhancing the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of various illnesses by leveraging the synergy between biomaterials and nanotechnology. The term "nano biomaterials" referring to biomaterials featuring constituent or surface feature sizes below 100 nm, presents a realm of extraordinary materials endowed with unique structures and properties. Beyond addressing common biomedical challenges, these nano biomaterials contribute unprecedented insights and principles that enrich our understanding of biology, medicine, and materials science. A critical evaluation of recent technological progress in employing biomaterials in medicine is essential, along with an exploration of potential future trends. Nanotechnology breakthroughs have yielded novel surfaces, materials, and configurations with notable applications in the biomedical domain. The integration of nanotechnology has already begun to enhance traditional biomedical practices across diverse fields such as tissue engineering, intelligent systems, the utilization of nanocomposites in implant design, controlled release systems, biosensors, and more. This mini review encapsulates insights into biomaterials, encompassing their types, synthesis methods, and the roles of organic and inorganic nanoparticles, elucidating their mechanisms of action. Furthermore, the focus is squarely placed on nano biomaterials and their versatile applications, with a particular emphasis on their roles in anticancer and antimicrobial interventions. This review underscores the dynamic landscape of nanotechnology, envisioning a future where nano biomaterials play a pivotal role in advancing medical applications, particularly in combating cancer and microbial infections.

Dually Active Apigenin-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Cancer Treatment

Purpose

Cancer is one of the major causes of death worldwide affecting more than 19 million people. Traditional cancer therapies have many adverse effects and often result in unsatisfactory outcomes. Natural flavones, such as apigenin (APG), have demonstrated excellent antitumoral properties. However, they have a low aqueous solubility. To overcome this drawback, APG can be encapsulated in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC). Therefore, we developed dual NLC encapsulating APG (APG-NLC) with a lipid matrix containing rosehip oil, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Methods

Optimisation, physicochemical characterisation, biopharmaceutical behaviour, and therapeutic efficacy of this novel nanostructured system were assessed.

Results

APG-NLC were optimized obtaining an average particle size below 200 nm, a surface charge of -20 mV, and an encapsulation efficiency over 99%. The APG-NLC released APG in a sustained manner, and the results showed that the formulation was stable for more than 10 months. In vitro studies showed that APG-NLC possess significant antiangiogenic activity in ovo and selective antiproliferative activity in several cancer cell lines without exhibiting toxicity in healthy cells.

Conclusion

APG-NLC containing rosehip oil were optimised. They exhibit suitable physicochemical parameters, storage stability for more than 10 months, and prolonged APG release. Moreover, APG-NLC were internalised inside tumour cells, showing the capacity to cause cytotoxicity in cancer cells without damaging healthy cells.

Nanoparticles in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

The use of tailored medication delivery in cancer treatment has the potential to increase efficacy while decreasing unfavourable side effects. For researchers looking to improve clinical outcomes, chemotherapy for cancer continues to be the most challenging topic. Cancer is one of the worst illnesses despite the limits of current cancer therapies. New anticancer medications are therefore required to treat cancer. Nanotechnology has revolutionized medical research with new and improved materials for biomedical applications, with a particular focus on therapy and diagnostics. In cancer research, the application of metal nanoparticles as substitute chemotherapy drugs is growing. Metals exhibit inherent or surface-induced anticancer properties, making metallic nanoparticles extremely useful. The development of metal nanoparticles is proceeding rapidly and in many directions, offering alternative therapeutic strategies and improving outcomes for many cancer treatments. This review aimed to present the most commonly used nanoparticles for cancer applications.

Combination of CNTs with Classical Drugs for Treatment in Human Colorectal Adenocarcinoma (HT-29) Cell Line

Due to the increase in new types of cancer cells and resistance to drugs, conventional cancer treatments are sometimes insufficient. Therefore, an alternative is to apply nanotechnology to biomedical areas, minimizing side effects and drug resistance and improving treatment efficacy. This work aims to find a promising cancer treatment in the human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (HT-29) to minimize the viability of cells (IC₅₀) by using carbon nanotubes (CNTs) combined with different drugs (5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and two repurposing drugs-tacrine (TAC) and ethionamide (ETA). Several CNT samples with different functional groups (-O, -N, -S) and textural properties were prepared and characterized by elemental and thermogravimetry analysis, size distribution, and textural and temperature programmed desorption. The samples that interacted most with the drugs and contributed to improving HT-29 cell treatment were samples doped with nitrogen and sulfur groups (CNT-BM-N and CNT-H₂SO₄-BM) with IC₅₀ 1.98 and 2.50 µmol∙dm^-3 from 5-FU and 15.32 and 15.81 µmol∙dm^-3 from TAC. On the other hand, ETA had no activity, even combined with the CNTs. These results allow us to conclude that the activity was improved for both 5-FU and TAC when combined with CNTs.

Visible Pulsed Laser-Assisted Selective Killing of Cancer Cells with PVP-Capped Plasmonic Gold Nanostars

A new generation of nanoscale photosensitizer agents has improved photothermal capabilities, which has increased the impact of photothermal treatments (PTTs) in cancer therapy. Gold nanostars (GNS) are promising for more efficient and less invasive PTTs than gold nanoparticles. However, the combination of GNS and visible pulsed lasers remains unexplored. This article reports the use of a 532 nm nanosecond pulse laser and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-capped GNS to kill cancer cells with location-specific exposure. Biocompatible GNS were synthesized via a simple method and were characterized under FESEM, UV-visible spectroscopy, XRD analysis, and particle size analysis. GNS were incubated over a layer of cancer cells that were grown in a glass Petri dish. A nanosecond pulsed laser was irradiated on the cell layer, and cell death was verified via propidium iodide (PI) staining. We assessed the effectiveness of single-pulse spot irradiation and multiple-pulse laser scanning irradiation in inducing cell death. Since the site of cell killing can be accurately chosen with a nanosecond pulse laser, this technique will help minimize damage to the cells around the target cells.

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

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

Smart Nanomaterials in Cancer Theranostics: Challenges and Opportunities

Cancer is ranked as the second leading cause of death globally. Traditional cancer therapies including chemotherapy are flawed, with off-target and on-target toxicities on the normal cells, requiring newer strategies to improve cell selective targeting. The application of nanomaterial has been extensively studied and explored as chemical biology tools in cancer theranostics. It shows greater applications toward stability, biocompatibility, and increased cell permeability, resulting in precise targeting, and mitigating the shortcomings of traditional cancer therapies. The nanoplatform offers an exciting opportunity to gain targeting strategies and multifunctionality. The advent of nanotechnology, in particular the development of smart nanomaterials, has transformed cancer diagnosis and treatment. The large surface area of nanoparticles is enough to encapsulate many molecules and the ability to functionalize with various biosubstrates such as DNA, RNA, aptamers, and antibodies, which helps in theranostic action. Comparatively, biologically derived nanomaterials perceive advantages over the nanomaterials produced by conventional methods in terms of economy, ease of production, and reduced toxicity. The present review summarizes various techniques in cancer theranostics and emphasizes the applications of smart nanomaterials (such as organic nanoparticles (NPs), inorganic NPs, and carbon-based NPs). We also critically discussed the advantages and challenges impeding their translation in cancer treatment and diagnostic applications. This review concludes that the use of smart nanomaterials could significantly improve cancer theranostics and will facilitate new dimensions for tumor detection and therapy.

Unsteady natural convection flow of blood Casson nanofluid (Au) in a cylinder: nano-cryosurgery applications

Nano-cryosurgery is one of the effective ways to treat cancerous cells with minimum harm to healthy adjacent cells. Clinical experimental research consumes time and cost. Thus, developing a mathematical simulation model is useful for time and cost-saving, especially in designing the experiment. Investigating the Casson nanofluid's unsteady flow in an artery with the convective effect is the goal of the current investigation. The nanofluid is considered to flow in the blood arteries. Therefore, the slip velocity effect is concerned. Blood is a base fluid with gold (Au) nanoparticles dispersed in the base fluid. The resultant governing equations are solved by utilising the Laplace transform regarding the time and the finite Hankel transform regarding the radial coordinate. The resulting analytical answers for velocity and temperature are then displayed and visually described. It is found that the temperature enhancement occurred by arising nanoparticles volume fraction and time parameter. The blood velocity increases as the slip velocity, time parameter, thermal Grashof number, and nanoparticles volume fraction increase. Whereas the velocity decreases with the Casson parameter. Thus, by adding Au nanoparticles, the tissue thermal conductivity enhanced which has the consequence of freezing the tissue in nano-cryosurgery treatment significantly.

Folic Acid-Modified Ibrutinib-Loaded Silk Fibroin Nanoparticles for Cancer Cell Therapy with Over-Expressed Folate Receptor

The anticancer drug ibrutinib (IB), also known as PCI-32765, is a compound that irreversibly inhibits Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) and was initially developed as a treatment option for B-cell lineage neoplasms. Its action is not limited to B-cells, as it is expressed in all hematopoietic lineages and plays a crucial role in the tumor microenvironment. However, clinical trials with the drug have resulted in conflicting outcomes against solid tumors. In this study, folic acid-conjugated silk nanoparticles were used for the targeted delivery of IB to the cancer cell lines HeLa, BT-474, and SKBR3 by exploiting the overexpression of folate receptors on their surfaces. The results were compared with those of control healthy cells (EA.hy926). Cellular uptake studies confirmed total internalization of the nanoparticles functionalized by this procedure in the cancer cells after 24 h, compared to nanoparticles not functionalized with folic acid, suggesting that cellular uptake was mediated by folate receptors overexpressed in the cancer cells. The results indicate that the developed nanocarrier can be used for drug targeting applications by enhancing IB uptake in cancer cells with folate receptor overexpression.

Engineering a potent boron-10-enriched polymeric nanoparticle for boron neutron capture therapy

Background: Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a promising cancer treatment that eliminates tumor cells by triggering high-energy radiation within cancer cells. Aim: In vivo evaluation of poly(vinyl alcohol)/boric acid crosslinked nanoparticles (PVA/BA NPs) for BNCT. Materials & methods: PVA/BA NPs were synthesized and intravenously injected into tumor-bearing mice for BNCT. Results: The in vitro boron uptake of PVA/BA NPs in tumor cells was 70-fold higher than the required boron uptake for successful BNCT. In an in vivo study, PVA/BA NPs showed a 44.29% reduction in tumor size compared with clinically used boronophenylalanine for oral cancer in a murine model. Conclusion: PVA/BA NPs exhibited effective therapeutic results for oral cancer treatments in BNCT.

Optical Detection of Cancer Cells Using Lab-on-a-Chip

The global need for accurate and efficient cancer cell detection in biomedicine and clinical diagnosis has driven extensive research and technological development in the field. Precision, high-throughput, non-invasive separation, detection, and classification of individual cells are critical requirements for successful technology. Lab-on-a-chip devices offer enormous potential for solving biological and medical problems and have become a priority research area for microanalysis and manipulating cells. This paper reviews recent developments in the detection of cancer cells using the microfluidics-based lab-on-a-chip method, focusing on describing and explaining techniques that use optical phenomena and a plethora of probes for sensing, amplification, and immobilization. The paper describes how optics are applied in each experimental method, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. The discussion includes a summary of current challenges and prospects for cancer diagnosis.

The application of nanoparticles in immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, however, current clinical diagnostic and treatment approaches remain relatively limited, creating an urgent need for the development of effective technologies. Immunotherapy has emerged as a powerful treatment strategy for advanced cancer. The number of clinically approved drugs for HCC immunotherapy has been increasing. However, it remains challenging to improve their transport and therapeutic efficiency, control their targeting and release, and mitigate their adverse effects. Nanotechnology has recently gained attention for improving the effectiveness of precision therapy for HCC. We summarize the key features of HCC associated with nanoparticle (NPs) targeting, release, and uptake, the roles and limitations of several major immunotherapies in HCC, the use of NPs in immunotherapy, the properties of NPs that influence their design and application, and current clinical trials of NPs in HCC, with the aim of informing the design of delivery platforms that have the potential to improve the safety and efficacy of HCC immunotherapy，and thus, ultimately improve the prognosis of HCC patients.

A Review on the Use of Gold Nanoparticles in Cancer Treatment

According to a 2020 WHO study, cancer is responsible for one in every six fatalities. One in four patients die due to side effects and intolerance to chemotherapy, making it a leading cause of patient death. Compared to traditional tumor therapy, emerging treatment methods, including immunotherapy, gene therapy, photothermal therapy, and photodynamic therapy, have proven to be more effective. The aim of this review is to highlight the role of gold nanoparticles in advanced cancer treatment. A systematic and extensive literature review was conducted using the Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, NCBI, and various websites. Highly relevant literature from 141 references was chosen for inclusion in this review. Recently, the synergistic benefits of nano therapy and cancer immunotherapy have been shown, which could allow earlier diagnosis, more focused cancer treatment, and improved disease control. Compared to other nanoparticles, the physical and optical characteristics of gold nanoparticles appear to have significantly greater effects on the target. It has a crucial role in acting as a drug carrier, biomarker, anti-angiogenesis agent, diagnostic agent, radiosensitizer, cancer immunotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and photothermal therapy. Gold nanoparticle-based cancer treatments can greatly reduce current drug and chemotherapy dosages.

The Fractal Viewpoint of Tumors and Nanoparticles

Even though the promising therapies against cancer are rapidly improved, the oncology patients population has seen exponential growth, placing cancer in 5th place among the ten deadliest diseases. Efficient drug delivery systems must overcome multiple barriers and maximize drug delivery to the target tumors, simultaneously limiting side effects. Since the first observation of the quantum tunneling phenomenon, many multidisciplinary studies have offered quantum-inspired solutions to optimized tumor mapping and efficient nanodrug design. The property of a wave function to propagate through a potential barrier offer the capability of obtaining 3D surface profiles using imaging of individual atoms on the surface of a material. The application of quantum tunneling on a scanning tunneling microscope offers an exact surface roughness mapping of tumors and pharmaceutical particles. Critical elements to cancer nanotherapeutics apply the fractal theory and calculate the fractal dimension for efficient tumor surface imaging at the atomic level. This review study presents the latest biological approaches to cancer management based on fractal geometry.

Photoresponsive Inorganic Nanomaterials in Oncology

The diagnosis and treatment of cancer are continuously evolving in search of more efficient, safe, and personalized approaches. Therapies based on nanoparticles or physical stimuli-responsive substances have shown great potential to overcome the inherent shortcomings of conventional cancer therapies. In fact, nanoparticles may increase the half-life of chemotherapeutic agents or promote the targeting in cancer tissues while physical stimuli-responsive substances are more effective and safer with respect to traditional chemotherapeutic agents because of the possibility to be switched on only when needed. These 2 approaches can be combined by exploiting the ability of some inorganic nanomaterials to be activated by light, ultrasounds, magnetic fields, or ionizing radiations. Albeit the development of stimuli-responsive materials is still at the early stages, research in this field is rapidly growing since they have important advantages with respect to organic nanoparticles or molecular substances, like higher stability, and higher efficiency in converting the stimulus in heat or, in some cases, reactive oxygen species. On the other hand, the translation process is slowed down by issues related to safety and quality of the formulations. This literature review summarizes the current advancements in this research field, analysing the most promising materials and applications.

Polyethyleneimine-Based Drug Delivery Systems for Cancer Theranostics

With the development of nanotechnology, various types of polymer-based drug delivery systems have been designed for biomedical applications. Polymer-based drug delivery systems with desirable biocompatibility can be efficiently delivered to tumor sites with passive or targeted effects and combined with other therapeutic and imaging agents for cancer theranostics. As an effective vehicle for drug and gene delivery, polyethyleneimine (PEI) has been extensively studied due to its rich surface amines and excellent water solubility. In this work, we summarize the surface modifications of PEI to enhance biocompatibility and functionalization. Additionally, the synthesis of PEI-based nanoparticles is discussed. We further review the applications of PEI-based drug delivery systems in cancer treatment, cancer imaging, and cancer theranostics. Finally, we thoroughly consider the outlook and challenges relating to PEI-based drug delivery systems.

RGD_PLGA Nanoparticles with Docetaxel: A Route for Improving Drug Efficiency and Reducing Toxicity in Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in women. Although many therapeutic approaches are available, systemic chemotherapy remains the primary choice, especially for triple-negative and advanced breast cancers. Unfortunately, systemic chemotherapy causes serious side effects and requires high doses to achieve an effective concentration in the tumor. Thus, the use of nanosystems for drug delivery may overcome these limitations. Herein, we formulated Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA-NPs) containing Docetaxel, a fluorescent probe, and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) probe. The cyclic RGD tripeptide was linked to the PLGA surface to actively target α_vβ₃ integrins, which are overexpressed in breast cancer. PLGA-NPs were characterized using dynamic light scattering, fast field-cycling ¹H-relaxometry, and ¹H-nuclear magnetic resonance. Their therapeutic effects were assessed both in vitro in triple-negative and HER2+ breast cancer cells, and in vivo in murine models. In vivo MRI and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry of excised tumors revealed a stronger accumulation of PLGA-NPs in the RGD_PLGA group. Targeted PLGAs have improved therapeutic efficacy and strongly reduced cardiac side effects compared to free Docetaxel. In conclusion, RGD-PLGA is a promising system for breast cancer treatment, with positive outcome in terms of therapeutic efficiency and reduction in side effects.

A combinational chemo-immune therapy using outer membrane vesicles for enhanced cancer therapy by RGD targeting

Cancer therapies are limited by poor drug penetration that impedes effective tumor treatment. This was overcome in the present study by loading the immune reaction inducing nanocarriers of the bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) and doxorubicin (DOX) into the natural immunity platform OMV via incubation. Drug accumulation at the tumor site was improved by using the targeting peptide 6-Mal- Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) on the surface of OMVs to increase internalization via binding to cell surface integrin αvβ3. OMVs stimulate immune responses by reversing the immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) via decreasing TAM and Treg, increasing CD8+ T and M1, and promoting DC maturation. The combination of DOX and OMVs compensates for the shortcomings of monotherapy (e.g., chemotherapy and immunotherapy) and amplifies the therapeutic efficacy of cancer treatment, while aiding selection of novel nanocarriers and development of effective therapeutic regimens.

Biosynthetic Silver Nanoparticles Inhibit the Malignant Behavior of Gastric Cancer Cells and Enhance the Therapeutic Effect of 5-Fluorouracil by Promoting Intracellular ROS Generation and Apoptosis

(1) Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) have been increasingly used in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer due to their physicochemical properties. This study investigated the role of a kind of biosynthetic silver nanoparticle (b-Ag) in the development of GC, the enhancement of 5-fluorouracil (5F), and its mechanism. (2) Methods: X-ray, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UV absorbance were used to detect the characterizations of AgNPs. CCK8, Colony formation and a Transwell assay were performed to confirm the malignant behaviors of GC. DCFH-DA and DHE were used to detect intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the mRNA expression of apoptosis-related genes. (3) Results: Compared with the chemosynthetic silver nanoparticles (c-Ag), b-Ag had a stronger cytokilling effect, and it had a better inhibition on the malignant phenotype of GC when combined with 5F. The b-Ag increased the expression of Bax and P53 while decreasing the expression of Bcl2. It also promoted the generation of intracellular ROS. (4) Conclusions: By promoting cell apoptosis and increasing intracellular ROS, b-Ag inhibited the development of GC and enhanced the inhibition of 5F on GC.

Silver and copper-oxide nanoparticles prepared with GA3 induced defense in rice plants and caused mortalities to the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål)

BACKGROUND

Nanoparticles have been employed as nanopesticides for pest control in agriculture. However, the harmful effects of their chemical synthesis on human and environmental health have resulted in increased use of green synthetic approaches, including the use of plant extracts. The brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål) (BPH), is a severe pest of rice plants (Oryza sativa L.), especially in Asia. It is usually controlled chemically but has developed resistance against many insecticides.

RESULTS

In this study, we synthesized metallic silver (Ag-NPs) and copper-oxide (CuO-NPs) nanoparticles using the exogenous phytohormone, gibberellic acid (GA₃), as a reducing agent. We then sprayed them separately on rice plants and BPH together and evaluated their effects on the plants and insects. SEM and TEM images showed that the synthesis was successful, indicated by the sizes (25-60 nm), uniform shape and spherical and cubical structures of Ag-NPs, as well as by the rugby sheet-like of CuO-NPs with lateral sizes of 150-340 nm and thickness of 30-70 nm. Independent applications of the nanoparticles and GA₃ on rice plants induced different volatile profiles, of which the highest number emitted was under Ag-NPs, including the highest emission of linalool. Transcriptome analysis showed that Ag-NPs-treated rice plants showed different transcriptome profiles compared to the control, 24 h after treatment, including the upregulation of the linalool synthase gene, genes of plants transcription factors such as WRKY, bHLH and NAC and other genes involved in plant defense responses. In all treatments, the mortality rate of BPH increased with an increase in NPs concentrations over time but was prominent under Ag-NPs treatment. The LC₅₀ values for Ag-NPs and CuO-NPs decreased with an increase in time. Also, the nanoparticles increased the activities of protective enzymes (POD, SOD and CAT), inhibited that of detoxification enzymes (A-CHE, ACP and AKP), and reduced total protein concentrations in the BPH.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that synthesizing nanoparticles using phytohormones may be a safer and environmentally friendly option, which also holds promise for controlling the BPH in rice production.

Development of Injectable and Biodegradable Needle-Type Starch Implant for Effective Intratumoral Drug Delivery and Distribution

Introduction

Compared to intravenous administration, intratumoral drug administration enables the direct delivery of drugs to tumors and mitigates the systemic absorption of drugs and associated drug-induced side effects. However, intratumoral drug administration presents several challenges. The high interstitial fluid pressure (IFP) of the tumor prevents the retention of drugs within the tumor; thus, significant amounts of the drugs are absorbed systemically through the bloodstream or delivered to non-target sites. To solve this problem, in this study, a drug-enclosed needle-type starch implant was developed that can overcome IFP and remain in the tumor.

Methods

Injectable needle-type starch implants (NS implants) were prepared by starch gelatinization and drying. The structure, cytotoxicity, and anticancer effects of the NS implants were evaluated. Biodistribution of NS implants was evaluated in pork (in vitro), dissected liver (ex vivo), and 4T1 tumors in mice (in vivo) using a fluorescence imaging device.

Results

The prepared NS implants exhibited a hydrogel structure after water absorption. NS implants showed effective cytotoxicity and anticancer effects by photothermal therapy (PTT). The NS implant itself has sufficient strength and can be easily injected into a desired area. In vivo, the NS implant continuously delivered drugs to the tumor more effectively and uniformly than conventional hydrogels and solutions.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the advantages of needle-type implants. An injectable NS implant can be a new formulation that can effectively deliver drugs and exhibit anticancer effects.

Ultrasound-Responsive Nanocarriers for Breast Cancer Chemotherapy

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and it is treated with surgical intervention, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these regimens. Despite chemotherapy's ample use, it has limitations such as bioavailability, adverse side effects, high-dose requirements, low therapeutic indices, multiple drug resistance development, and non-specific targeting. Drug delivery vehicles or carriers, of which nanocarriers are prominent, have been introduced to overcome chemotherapy limitations. Nanocarriers have been preferentially used in breast cancer chemotherapy because of their role in protecting therapeutic agents from degradation, enabling efficient drug concentration in target cells or tissues, overcoming drug resistance, and their relatively small size. However, nanocarriers are affected by physiological barriers, bioavailability of transported drugs, and other factors. To resolve these issues, the use of external stimuli has been introduced, such as ultrasound, infrared light, thermal stimulation, microwaves, and X-rays. Recently, ultrasound-responsive nanocarriers have become popular because they are cost-effective, non-invasive, specific, tissue-penetrating, and deliver high drug concentrations to their target. In this paper, we review recent developments in ultrasound-guided nanocarriers for breast cancer chemotherapy, discuss the relevant challenges, and provide insights into future directions.

Biodistribution Profile of Magnetic Nanoparticles in Cirrhosis-Associated Hepatocarcinogenesis in Rats by AC Biosusceptometry

Since magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have been used as multifunctional probes to diagnose and treat liver diseases in recent years, this study aimed to assess how the condition of cirrhosis-associated hepatocarcinogenesis alters the biodistribution of hepatic MNPs. Using a real-time image acquisition approach, the distribution profile of MNPs after intravenous administration was monitored using an AC biosusceptometry (ACB) assay. We assessed the biodistribution profile based on the ACB images obtained through selected regions of interest (ROIs) in the heart and liver position according to the anatomical references previously selected. The signals obtained allowed for the quantification of pharmacokinetic parameters, indicating that the uptake of hepatic MNPs is compromised during liver cirrhosis, since scar tissue reduces blood flow through the liver and slows its processing function. Since liver monocytes/macrophages remained constant during the cirrhotic stage, the increased intrahepatic vascular resistance associated with impaired hepatic sinusoidal circulation was considered the potential reason for the change in the distribution of MNPs.

Cold Atmospheric Plasma Targeting Hematological Malignancies: Potentials and Problems of Clinical Translation

Cold atmospheric plasma is an ionized gas produced near room temperature; it generates reactive oxygen species and nitrogen species and induces physical changes, including ultraviolet, radiation, thermal, and electromagnetic effects. Several studies showed that cold atmospheric plasma could effectively provoke death in a huge amount of cell types, including neoplastic cells, via the induction of apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy. This technique seems able to destroy tumor cells by disturbing their more susceptible redox equilibrium with respect to normal cells, but it is also able to cause immunogenic cell death by enhancing the immune response, to decrease angiogenesis, and to provoke genetic and epigenetics mutations. Solutions activated by cold gas plasma represent a new modality for treatment of less easily reached tumors, or hematological malignancies. Our review reports on accepted knowledge of cold atmospheric plasma’s effect on hematological malignancies, such as acute and chronic myeloid leukemia and multiple myeloma. Although relevant progress was made toward understanding the underlying mechanisms concerning the efficacy of cold atmospheric plasma in hematological tumors, there is a need to determine both guidelines and safety limits that guarantee an absence of long-term side effects.

Gold Nanoconjugates for miRNA Modulation in Cancer Therapy: From miRNA Silencing to miRNA Mimics

Cancer is a major healthcare burden and cause of death worldwide, with an estimated 19.3 million new cancer cases and 10 million cancer deaths globally only in 2020. While several anticancer therapeutics are available to date, many of these still show low treatment efficacy and high off-target effects and adverse reactions. This prompts a serious need to develop novel therapies that can decrease the side effects and increase treatment efficacy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can have a role in tumor development and progression, making them important targets for the improvement of anticancer therapies. In this context, gold nanoparticles have been widely studied for different clinical applications due to their biocompatibility and possibility of customization, and gold nanoconjugates targeting miRNAs are being developed for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Here we summarize the research developed so far and how it can contribute to cancer treatment, discuss how it can be improved, and present the current challenges and future perspectives on their design and application.

Biotinylated Polymer-Ruthenium Conjugates: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies in a Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Model

The need for new therapeutic approaches for triple-negative breast cancer is a clinically relevant problem that needs to be solved. Using a multi-targeting approach to enhance cancer cell uptake, we synthesized a new family of ruthenium(II) organometallic complexes envisaging simultaneous active and passive targeting, using biotin and polylactide (PLA), respectively. All compounds with the general formula, [Ru(η5-CpR)(P)(2,2′-bipy-4,4′-PLA-biotin)][CF3SO3], where R is -H or -CH3 and P is P(C6H5)3, P(C6H4F)3 or P(C6H4OCH3)3, were tested against triple-negative breast cancer cells MDA-MB-231 showing IC50 values between 2.3–14.6 µM, much better than cisplatin, a classical chemotherapeutic drug, in the same experimental conditions. We selected compound 1 (where R is H and P is P(C6H5)3), for further studies as it was the one showing the best biological effect. In a competitive assay with biotin, we showed that cell uptake via SMVT receptors seems to be the main transport route into the cells for this compound, validating the strategy of including biotin in the design of the compound. The effects of the compound on the hallmarks of cancer show that the compound leads to apoptosis, interferes with proliferation by affecting the formation of cell colonies in a dose-dependent manner and disrupts the cell cytoskeleton. Preliminary in vivo assays in N: NIH(S)II-nu/nu mice show that the concentrations of compound 1 used in this experiment (maximum 4 mg/kg) are safe to use in vivo, although some signs of liver toxicity are already found. In addition, the new compound shows a tendency to control tumor growth, although not significantly. In sum, we showed that compound 1 shows promising anti-cancer effects, bringing a new avenue for triple-negative breast cancer therapy.

Rigid metal/liquid metal nanoparticles: Synthesis and application for locally ablative therapy

Locally ablative therapy, as the main therapy for advanced tumors, has fallen into a bottleneck in recent years. The breakthrough of metal nanoparticles provides a novel approach for ablative therapy. Previous studies have mostly focused on the combined field of rigid metal nanoparticles and ablation. However, with the maturity of the preparation process of liquid metal nanoparticles, liquid metal nanoparticles not only have metallic properties but also have fluid properties, showing the potential to be combined with ablation. At present, there is no review on the combination of liquid metal nanoparticles and ablation. In this article, we first review the preparation, characterization and application characteristics of rigid metal and liquid metal nanoparticles in ablation applications, and then summarize the advantages, disadvantages and possible future development trends of rigid and liquid metal nanoparticles.

Nanotechnology and Matrix Metalloproteinases in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Cancer is still one of the leading causes of death worldwide. This great mortality is due to its late diagnosis when the disease is already at advanced stages. Although the efforts made to develop more effective treatments, around 90% of cancer deaths are due to metastasis that confers a systemic character to the disease. Likewise, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are endopeptidases that participate in all the events of the metastatic process. MMPs’ augmented concentrations and an increased enzymatic activity have been considered bad prognosis markers of the disease. Therefore, synthetic inhibitors have been created to block MMPs’ enzymatic activity. However, they have been ineffective in addition to causing considerable side effects. On the other hand, nanotechnology offers the opportunity to formulate therapeutic agents that can act directly on a target cell, avoiding side effects and improving the diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment of cancer. The goal of the present review is to discuss novel nanotechnological strategies in which MMPs are used with theranostic purposes and as therapeutic targets to control cancer progression.

Magnetite Nanoparticles in Magnetic Hyperthermia and Cancer Therapies: Challenges and Perspectives

Until now, strategies used to treat cancer are imperfect, and this generates the need to search for better and safer solutions. The biggest issue is the lack of selective interaction with neoplastic cells, which is associated with occurrence of side effects and significantly reduces the effectiveness of therapies. The use of nanoparticles in cancer can counteract these problems. One of the most promising nanoparticles is magnetite. Implementation of this nanoparticle can improve various treatment methods such as hyperthermia, targeted drug delivery, cancer genotherapy, and protein therapy. In the first case, its feature makes magnetite useful in magnetic hyperthermia. Interaction of magnetite with the altered magnetic field generates heat. This process results in raised temperature only in a desired part of a patient body. In other therapies, magnetite-based nanoparticles could serve as a carrier for various types of therapeutic load. The magnetic field would direct the drug-related magnetite nanoparticles to the pathological site. Therefore, this material can be used in protein and gene therapy or drug delivery. Since the magnetite nanoparticle can be used in various types of cancer treatment, they are extensively studied. Herein, we summarize the latest finding on the applicability of the magnetite nanoparticles, also addressing the most critical problems faced by smart nanomedicine in oncological therapies.

Contact-Free Remote Manipulation of Hydrogel Properties Using Light-Triggerable Nanoparticles: A Materials Science Perspective for Biomedical Applications

Considerable progress has been made in synthesizing "intelligent", biodegradable hydrogels that undergo rapid changes in physicochemical properties once exposed to external stimuli. These advantageous properties of stimulus-triggered materials make them highly appealing to diverse biomedical applications. Of late, research on the incorporation of light-triggered nanoparticles (NPs) into polymeric hydrogel networks has gained momentum due to their ability to remotely tune hydrogel properties using facile, contact-free approaches, such as adjustment of wavelength and intensity of light source. These multi-functional NPs, in combination with tissue-mimicking hydrogels, are increasingly being used for on-demand drug release, preparing diagnostic kits, and fabricating smart scaffolds. Here, the authors discuss the atomic behavior of different NPs in the presence of light, and critically review the mechanisms by which NPs convert light stimuli into heat energy. Then, they explain how these NPs impact the mechanical properties and rheological behavior of NPs-impregnated hydrogels. Understanding the rheological behavior of nanocomposite hydrogels using different sophisticated strategies, including computer-assisted machine learning, is critical for designing the next generation of drug delivery systems. Next, they highlight the salient strategies that have been used to apply light-induced nanocomposites for diverse biomedical applications and provide an outlook for the further improvement of these NPs-driven light-responsive hydrogels.

Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Techniques: Technical Principles and Applications in Nanomedicine

Simple Summary

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a consolidated imaging tool for the multiparametric assessment of tissues in various pathologies from degenerative and inflammatory diseases to cancer. In recent years, the continuous technological evolution of the equipment has led to the development of sequences that provide not only anatomical but also functional and metabolic information. In addition, there is a growing and emerging field of research in clinical applications using MRI to exploit the diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities of nanocompounds. This review illustrates the application of the most advanced magnetic resonance techniques in the field of nanomedicine.

Abstract

In the last decades, nanotechnology has been used in a wide range of biomedical applications, both diagnostic and therapeutic. In this scenario, imaging techniques represent a fundamental tool to obtain information about the properties of nanoconstructs and their interactions with the biological environment in preclinical and clinical settings. This paper reviews the state of the art of the application of magnetic resonance imaging in the field of nanomedicine, as well as the use of nanoparticles as diagnostic and therapeutic tools, especially in cancer, including the characteristics that hinder the use of nanoparticles in clinical practice.

Comprehensive comparison of theranostic nanoparticles in breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most frequently happening cancer and the most typical cancer death among females. Despite the crucial progress in breast cancer therapy by using Chemotherapeutic agents, most anti-tumor drugs are insufficient to destroy exactly the breast cancer cells. The noble method of drug delivery using nanoparticles presents a great promise in treating breast cancer most sufficiently and with the least harm to the patient. Nanoparticles, with their spectacular characteristics, help overcome problems of this kind. Unique features of nanoparticles such as biocompatibility, bioavailability, biodegradability, sustained release, and, most importantly, site-specific targeting enables the Chemotherapeutic agents loaded in nanocarriers to differentiate between healthy tissue and cancer cells, leading to low toxicity and fewer side effects. This review focuses on evaluating and comprehending nanoparticles utilized in breast cancer treatment, including the most recent data related to the drugs they can carry. Also, this review covers all information related to each nanocarrier, such as their significant characteristics, subtypes, advantages, disadvantages, and chemical modification methods with recently published studies. This article discusses over 21 nanoparticles used in breast cancer treatment with possible chemical ligands such as monoclonal antibodies and chemotherapeutic agents binding to these carriers. These different nanoparticles and the unique features of each nanocarrier give the researchers all the data and insight to develop and use the brand-new drug delivery system.

Combining antibiotics with silver nanoparticles: A potential treatment strategy against antimicrobial resistance

Growing resistance to currently approved antibiotics is posing serious concern worldwide. The multidrug-resistant organisms are a major cause of mortality and morbidity around the globe. The limited options to treat infections caused by resistant organism requires alternative strategies to increase the effectiveness of antibiotic for better clinical outcomes. Recent advances in nanotechnology have enabled the drugs to be used in nanoscale to increase the effectiveness of antibiotics. The use of nanoparticles to treat infectious diseases has a long history in the pharmaceutical market, and the versatility of these particles to incorporate various materials as carriers make it an attractive option to combat the current crisis of emerging antibacterial resistance. Silver, a metal with many medical applications, has inherent antimicrobial properties. Therefore, silver NPs are appearing as one of the best options to be used in combination with antibiotics to increase effectiveness against resistant bacteria. Here, we discuss the applications and mechanisms of silver NPs to treat microbial resistance in light of recent research.

Verteporfin-Loaded Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles' Topical Applications Inhibit Mouse Melanoma Lymphangiogenesis and Micrometastasis In Vivo

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been pointed out as a candidate for improving melanoma treatment. Nanotechnology application in PDT has increased its efficacy by reducing side effects. Herein, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) conjugated with verteporfin (Ver-MSNs), in use with PDT, were administered in mice to evaluate their efficacy on lymphoangiogenesis and micrometastasis in melanoma. Melanoma was induced in mice by the subcutaneous injection of B16-F10 cells. The mice were transcutaneously treated with MSNs, Ver-MSNs, or glycerol and exposed to red light. The treatment was carried out four times until day 20. Lymphangiogenesis and micrometastasis were identified by the immunohistochemical method. Lymphoangiogenesis was halved by MSN treatment compared with the control animals, whereas the Ver-MSN treatment almost abolished it. A similar reduction was also observed in lung micrometastasis. PDT with topically administrated Ver-MSNs reduced melanoma lymphoangiogenesis and lung micrometastasis, as well as tumor mass and angiogenesis, and therefore their use could be an innovative and useful tool in melanoma clinical therapy.

Quantifying and controlling bond multivalency for advanced nanoparticle targeting to cells

Nanoparticles have drawn intense interest as delivery agents for diagnosing and treating various cancers. Much of the early success was driven by passive targeting mechanisms such as the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, but this has failed to lead to the expected clinical successes. Active targeting involves binding interactions between the nanoparticle and cancer cells, which promotes tumor cell-specific accumulation and internalization. Furthermore, nanoparticles are large enough to facilitate multiple bond formation, which can improve adhesive properties substantially in comparison to the single bond case. While multivalent binding is universally believed to be an attribute of nanoparticles, it is a complex process that is still poorly understood and difficult to control. In this review, we will first discuss experimental studies that have elucidated roles for parameters such as nanoparticle size and shape, targeting ligand and target receptor densities, and monovalent binding kinetics on multivalent nanoparticle adhesion efficiency and cellular internalization. Although such experimental studies are very insightful, information is limited and confounded by numerous differences across experimental systems. Thus, we focus the second part of the review on theoretical aspects of binding, including kinetics, biomechanics, and transport physics. Finally, we discuss various computational and simulation studies of nanoparticle adhesion, including advanced treatments that compare directly to experimental results. Future work will ideally continue to combine experimental data and advanced computational studies to extend our knowledge of multivalent adhesion, as well as design the most powerful nanoparticle-based agents to treat cancer.

Passive targeting of high-grade gliomas via the EPR effect: a closed path for metallic nanoparticles?

Passive tumor targeting via the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect has long been considered the most effective mechanism for the accumulation of nanoparticles inside solid tumors. However, several studies have demonstrated that the EPR effect is largely dependent on the tumor type and location. Particularly complex is the situation in brain tumors, where the presence of the blood-brain tumor barrier (BBTB) adds an extra limiting factor in reaching the tumor interstitium. However, it remains unclear whether these restraints imposed by the BBTB prevent the EPR effect from acting as an efficient tumor targeting mechanism for metallic nanoparticles. In this work, we have studied the EPR effect of metallic magnetic nanoparticles (MMNPs) in a glioblastoma (GBM) model by parametric MRI. Our results showed that only MMNPs ≤50 nm could reach the tumor interstitium, whereas larger MMNPs were unable to cross the BBTB. Furthermore, even for MMNPs around 30-50 nm, the amount of them found within the tumor was scarce and restricted to the vicinity of large tumor vessels, indicating that the BBTB strongly limits the passive accumulation of metallic nanoparticles in brain tumors. Therefore, active targeting becomes the most reasonable strategy to target metallic nanoparticles to GBMs.

Effect of Cold Atmospheric Plasma on Epigenetic Changes, DNA Damage, and Possibilities for Its Use in Synergistic Cancer Therapy

Cold atmospheric plasma has great potential for use in modern medicine. It has been used in the clinical treatment of skin diseases and chronic wounds, and in laboratory settings it has shown effects on selective decrease in tumour-cell viability, reduced tumour mass in animal models and stem-cell proliferation. Many researchers are currently focusing on its application to internal structures and the use of plasma-activated liquids in tolerated and effective human treatment. There has also been analysis of plasma's beneficial synergy with standard pharmaceuticals to enhance their effect. Cold atmospheric plasma triggers various responses in tumour cells, and this can result in epigenetic changes in both DNA methylation levels and histone modification. The expression and activity of non-coding RNAs with their many important cell regulatory functions can also be altered by cold atmospheric plasma action. Finally, there is ongoing debate whether plasma-produced radicals can directly affect DNA damage in the nucleus or only initiate apoptosis or other forms of cell death. This article therefore summarises accepted knowledge of cold atmospheric plasma's influence on epigenetic changes, the expression and activity of non-coding RNAs, and DNA damage and its effect in synergistic treatment with routinely used pharmaceuticals.

The Evolution and Future of Targeted Cancer Therapy: From Nanoparticles, Oncolytic Viruses, and Oncolytic Bacteria to the Treatment of Solid Tumors

While many classes of chemotherapeutic agents exist to treat solid tumors, few can generate a lasting response without substantial off-target toxicity despite significant scientific advancements and investments. In this review, the paths of development for nanoparticles, oncolytic viruses, and oncolytic bacteria over the last 20 years of research towards clinical translation and acceptance as novel cancer therapeutics are compared. Novel nanoparticle, oncolytic virus, and oncolytic bacteria therapies all start with a common goal of accomplishing therapeutic drug activity or delivery to a specific site while avoiding off-target effects, with overlapping methodology between all three modalities. Indeed, the degree of overlap is substantial enough that breakthroughs in one therapeutic could have considerable implications on the progression of the other two. Each oncotherapeutic modality has accomplished clinical translation, successfully overcoming the potential pitfalls promising therapeutics face. However, once studies enter clinical trials, the data all but disappears, leaving pre-clinical researchers largely in the dark. Overall, the creativity, flexibility, and innovation of these modalities for solid tumor treatments are greatly encouraging, and usher in a new age of pharmaceutical development.