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Najer A. Pathogen-binding nanoparticles to inhibit host cell infection by heparan sulfate and sialic acid dependent viruses and protozoan parasites. SMART MEDICINE 2024; 3:e20230046. [PMID: 39188697 PMCID: PMC11235646 DOI: 10.1002/smmd.20230046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Global health faces an immense burden from infectious diseases caused by viruses and intracellular protozoan parasites such as the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and malaria, respectively. These pathogens propagate through the infection of human host cells. The first stage of this host cell infection mechanism is cell attachment, which typically involves interactions between the infectious agent and surface components on the host cell membranes, specifically heparan sulfate (HS) and/or sialic acid (SA). Hence, nanoparticles (NPs) which contain or mimic HS/SA that can directly bind to the pathogen surface and inhibit cell infection are emerging as potential candidates for an alternative anti-infection therapeutic strategy. These NPs can be prepared from metals, soft matter (lipid, polymer, and dendrimer), DNA, and carbon-based materials among others and can be designed to include aspects of multivalency, broad-spectrum activity, biocidal mechanisms, and multifunctionality. This review provides an overview of such anti-pathogen nanomedicines beyond drug delivery. Nanoscale inhibitors acting against viruses and obligate intracellular protozoan parasites are discussed. In the future, the availability of broadly applicable nanotherapeutics would allow early tackling of existing and upcoming viral diseases. Invasion inhibitory NPs could also provide urgently needed effective treatments for protozoan parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Najer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical ScienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
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Hajjafari A, Sadr S, Santucciu C, Masala G, Bayat M, Lotfalizadeh N, Borji H, Partovi Moghaddam S, Hajjafari K. Advances in Detecting Cystic Echinococcosis in Intermediate Hosts and New Diagnostic Tools: A Literature Review. Vet Sci 2024; 11:227. [PMID: 38921974 PMCID: PMC11209443 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11060227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic disease affecting humans and animals. Despite a lack of clarity about many details of parasite-intermediate host interactions, the nature of the immune responses triggered by hydatid infection has revealed new perspectives. This study discusses the latest advances in elucidating the immunologic mechanism of echinococcosis and its detection and potential approaches to enhance serodiagnosis accuracy. Moreover, nanobiosensors have been evaluated according to their potential to improve treatment efficiency and aid in an early diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis. The serum of an intermediate host can diagnose CE by analyzing antibodies induced by Echinococcus granulosus. Among the most notable features of this method are its noninvasive ability and high sensitivity, both of which make it an excellent tool for clinical diagnosis. Several serological tests, including ELISAs and immunoblotting, can detect these antibodies to assess the disease's state and determine the treatment outcome. A thorough understanding of what cross-reactivity means and the stage of the disease are crucial to interpreting serological results. Nanobiosensors have also proven better than conventional biosensors in detecting hydatid cysts. Additionally, they are highly sensitive and versatile when detecting specific biomarkers, improving diagnostic accuracy. These immunomodulatory molecules, induced by E. granulosus, are a good candidate for diagnosing cystic echinococcosis because they alter intermediate host immune responses. Hydatid cyst detection is also enhanced through nanobiosensors, which provide better accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashkan Hajjafari
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Specialized Science, Science, and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1477893855, Iran; (A.H.); (S.P.M.)
| | - Soheil Sadr
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 917794897, Iran; (S.S.); (N.L.)
| | - Cinzia Santucciu
- WOAH and National Reference Laboratories for Echinococcosis, Animal Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 07100 Sassari, Italy;
| | - Giovanna Masala
- WOAH and National Reference Laboratories for Echinococcosis, Animal Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 07100 Sassari, Italy;
| | - Mansour Bayat
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Specialized Science, Science, and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1477893855, Iran; (A.H.); (S.P.M.)
| | - Narges Lotfalizadeh
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 917794897, Iran; (S.S.); (N.L.)
| | - Hassan Borji
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 917794897, Iran; (S.S.); (N.L.)
| | - Soroush Partovi Moghaddam
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Specialized Science, Science, and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1477893855, Iran; (A.H.); (S.P.M.)
| | - Khashayar Hajjafari
- Medical Graduated Student, Medical School, Shahid Bahonar University of Medical Sciences, Kerman 7618411764, Iran;
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Lotfalizadeh N, Sadr S, Morovati S, Lotfalizadeh M, Hajjafari A, Borji H. A potential cure for tumor-associated immunosuppression by Toxoplasma gondii. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e1963. [PMID: 38109851 PMCID: PMC10850000 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, immunotherapy has become very hopeful for cancer therapy. Cancer treatment through immunotherapy has excellent specificity and less toxicity than conventional chemoradiotherapy. Pathogens have been used in cancer immunotherapy for a long time. The current study aims to evaluate the possibility of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) as a probable treatment for cancers such as melanoma, breast, ovarian, lung, and pancreatic cancer. RECENT FINDINGS Nonreplicating type I uracil auxotrophic mutants of T. gondii can stimulate immune responses against tumors by reverse immunosuppression at the cellular level. T. gondii can be utilized to research T helper 1 (Th1) cell immunity in intracellular infections. Avirulent T. gondii uracil auxotroph vaccine can change the tumor's immunosuppression and improve the production of type 1 helper cell cytokines, i.e., Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and Interleukin-12 (IL-12) and activate tumor-related Cluster of Differentiation 8 (CD8+) T cells to identify and destroy cancer cells. The T. gondii profilin protein, along with T. gondii secreted proteins, have been found to exhibit promising properties in the treatment of various cancers. These proteins are being studied for their potential to inhibit tumor growth and enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies. Their unique mechanisms of action make them valuable candidates for targeted interventions in ovarian cancer, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, melanoma, and lung cancer treatments. CONCLUSION In summary, the study underscores the significant potential of harnessing T. gondii, including its diverse array of proteins and antigens, particularly in its avirulent form, as a groundbreaking approach in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Lotfalizadeh
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineFerdowsi University of MashhadMashhadIran
| | - Soheil Sadr
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineFerdowsi University of MashhadMashhadIran
| | - Solmaz Morovati
- Division of Biotechnology, Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary MedicineShiraz UniversityShirazIran
| | - Mohammadhassan Lotfalizadeh
- Board Certificate Oral and Maxillofacial RadiologistNorth Khorasan University of Medical Sciences (NKUMS)BojnurdIran
| | - Ashkan Hajjafari
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineIslamic Azad University, Science and Research BranchTehranIran
| | - Hassan Borji
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineFerdowsi University of MashhadMashhadIran
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Sadr S, Lotfalizadeh N, Abbasi AM, Soleymani N, Hajjafari A, Roohbaksh Amooli Moghadam E, Borji H. Challenges and Prospective of Enhancing Hydatid Cyst Chemotherapy by Nanotechnology and the Future of Nanobiosensors for Diagnosis. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:494. [PMID: 37999613 PMCID: PMC10674171 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8110494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydatid cysts have been widely recognized for decades as a common medical problem that affects millions of people. A revolution in medical treatment may be on the prospect of nanotechnology enhancing chemotherapy against hydatid cysts. An overview of nanotechnology's impact on chemotherapeutics is presented in the current review. It discusses some of the challenges as well as some of the opportunities. The application of nanotechnology to enhance chemotherapy against hydatid cysts is what this review will explore. Nanotechnology is a critical component of delivering therapeutic agents with greater precision and efficiency and targeting hydatid cysts with better efficacy, and minimizing interference with surrounding tissue. However, there are biodistribution challenges, toxicity, and resistance problems associated with nanotherapeutics. Additionally, nanobiosensors are being investigated to enable the early diagnosis of hydatid cysts. A nanobiosensor can detect hydatid cysts by catching them early, non-invasively, rapidly, and accurately. The sensitivity and specificity of diagnostic tests can be enhanced with nanobiosensors because they take advantage of the unique properties of nanomaterials. By providing more precise and customized treatment options for hydatid cysts, nanotechnology may improve therapeutic options and strategies for diagnosing the disease. In conclusion, treatment with nanotechnology to treat hydatid cysts is potentially effective but presents many obstacles. Furthermore, nanobiosensors are being integrated into diagnostic techniques, as well as helping to diagnose patients earlier and more accurately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheil Sadr
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 917794897, Iran; (S.S.)
| | - Narges Lotfalizadeh
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 917794897, Iran; (S.S.)
| | - Amir Mohammad Abbasi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 917794897, Iran; (S.S.)
| | - Nooshinmehr Soleymani
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 917794897, Iran; (S.S.)
| | - Ashkan Hajjafari
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran 1477893855, Iran
| | | | - Hassan Borji
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 917794897, Iran; (S.S.)
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Genchi G, Lauria G, Catalano A, Carocci A, Sinicropi MS. Prevalence of Cobalt in the Environment and Its Role in Biological Processes. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1335. [PMID: 37887045 PMCID: PMC10604320 DOI: 10.3390/biology12101335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Cobalt (Co) is an essential trace element for humans and other animals, but high doses can be harmful to human health. It is present in some foods such as green vegetables, various spices, meat, milk products, seafood, and eggs, and in drinking water. Co is necessary for the metabolism of human beings and animals due to its key role in the formation of vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, the biological reservoir of Co. In high concentrations, Co may cause some health issues such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, bleeding, low blood pressure, heart diseases, thyroid damage, hair loss, bone defects, and the inhibition of some enzyme activities. Conversely, Co deficiency can lead to anorexia, chronic swelling, and detrimental anemia. Co nanoparticles have different and various biomedical applications thanks to their antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. In addition, Co and cobalt oxide nanoparticles can be used in lithium-ion batteries, as a catalyst, a carrier for targeted drug delivery, a gas sensor, an electronic thin film, and in energy storage. Accumulation of Co in agriculture and humans, due to natural and anthropogenic factors, represents a global problem affecting water quality and human and animal health. Besides the common chelating agents used for Co intoxication, phytoremediation is an interesting environmental technology for cleaning up soil contaminated with Co. The occurrence of Co in the environment is discussed and its involvement in biological processes is underlined. Toxicological aspects related to Co are also examined in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Genchi
- Dipartimento di Farmacia e Scienze della Salute e della Nutrizione, Università della Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (G.G.); (G.L.); (M.S.S.)
| | - Graziantonio Lauria
- Dipartimento di Farmacia e Scienze della Salute e della Nutrizione, Università della Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (G.G.); (G.L.); (M.S.S.)
| | - Alessia Catalano
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari “A. Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Alessia Carocci
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari “A. Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Maria Stefania Sinicropi
- Dipartimento di Farmacia e Scienze della Salute e della Nutrizione, Università della Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (G.G.); (G.L.); (M.S.S.)
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