1
|
Palumbo FS, Fiorica C, Carreca AP, Iannolo G, Pitarresi G, Amico G, Giammona G, Conaldi PG, Chinnici CM. Modulating the release of bioactive molecules of human mesenchymal stromal cell secretome: Heparinization of hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels. Int J Pharm 2024; 653:123904. [PMID: 38355074 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.123904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
An amine derivative of hyaluronic acid (HA) was crosslinked to obtain a 3D dried sponge. The sponge was subsequently rehydrated using secretome from human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), resulting in the formation of a hydrogel. The release kinetics analysis demonstrated that the hydrogel effectively sustained secretome release, with 70% of the initially loaded wound-healing-associated cytokines being released over a 12-day period. Tuning the hydrogel properties through heparin crosslinking resulted in a biomaterial with a distinct mechanism of action. Specifically, the presence of heparin enhanced water uptake capacity of the hydrogel and increased its sensitivity to enzymatic degradation. Notably, the heparin crosslinking also led to a significant retention of cytokines within the hydrogel matrix. Overall, the secretome-rehydrated HA hydrogel holds promise as a versatile device for regenerative medicine applications: the non-heparinized hydrogel may function as a biomaterial with low reabsorption rates, sustaining the release of bioactive molecules contained in MSC secretome. In contrast, the heparinized hydrogel may serve as a depot of bioactive molecules with faster reabsorption rates. Given its patch-like characteristic, the HA-based hydrogel appears suitable as topical treatment for external organs, such as the skin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Salvatore Palumbo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Calogero Fiorica
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Paola Carreca
- Regenerative Medicine and Immunotherapy Unit, Fondazione Ri.MED c/o IRCCS ISMETT, via E. Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gioacchin Iannolo
- Department of Research, IRCCS ISMETT, via E. Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanna Pitarresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giandomenico Amico
- Regenerative Medicine and Immunotherapy Unit, Fondazione Ri.MED c/o IRCCS ISMETT, via E. Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Pier Giulio Conaldi
- Department of Research, IRCCS ISMETT, via E. Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Cinzia Maria Chinnici
- Cell Therapy Group, Fondazione R.MED c/o IRCCS ISMETT, via E. Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mauro N, Calabrese G, Sciortino A, Rizzo MG, Messina F, Giammona G, Cavallaro G. Microporous Fluorescent Poly(D,L-lactide) Acid-Carbon Nanodot Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications. Materials (Basel) 2024; 17:449. [PMID: 38255617 PMCID: PMC10820564 DOI: 10.3390/ma17020449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we introduce novel microporous poly(D,L-lactide) acid-carbon nanodot (PLA-CD) nanocomposite scaffolds tailored for potential applications in image-guided bone regeneration. Our primary objective was to investigate concentration-dependent structural variations and their relevance to cell growth, crucial aspects in bone regeneration. The methods employed included comprehensive characterization techniques such as DSC/TGA, FTIR, rheological, and degradation assessments, providing insights into the scaffolds' thermoplastic behavior, microstructure, and stability over time. Notably, the PLA-CD scaffolds exhibited distinct self-fluorescence, which persisted after 21 days of incubation, allowing detailed visualization in various multicolor modalities. Biocompatibility assessments were conducted by analyzing human adipose-derived stem cell (hADSC) growth on PLA-CD scaffolds, with results substantiated through cell viability and morphological analyses. hADSCs reached a cell viability of 125% and penetrated throughout the scaffold after 21 days of incubation. These findings underscore the scaffolds' potential in bone regeneration and fluorescence imaging. The multifunctional nature of the PLA-CD nanocomposite, integrating diagnostic capabilities with tunable properties, positions it as a promising candidate for advancing bone tissue engineering. Our study not only highlights key aspects of the investigation but also underscores the scaffolds' specific application in bone regeneration, providing a foundation for further research and optimization in this critical biomedical field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Department of “Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche” (STEBICEF), Università Degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (G.G.); (G.C.)
| | - Giovanna Calabrese
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, 98168 Messina, Italy; (G.C.); (M.G.R.)
| | - Alice Sciortino
- Department of Chimica e Fisica “E. Segrè”, Università Degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (A.S.); (F.M.)
| | - Maria G. Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, 98168 Messina, Italy; (G.C.); (M.G.R.)
| | - Fabrizio Messina
- Department of Chimica e Fisica “E. Segrè”, Università Degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (A.S.); (F.M.)
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Department of “Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche” (STEBICEF), Università Degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (G.G.); (G.C.)
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Department of “Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche” (STEBICEF), Università Degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (G.G.); (G.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mauro N, Cillari R, Andrea Utzeri M, Costa S, Giammona G, Nicosia A, Cavallaro G. Controlled delivery of sildenafil by β-Cyclodextrin-decorated sulfur-doped carbon nanodots: a synergistic activation of ROS signaling in tumors overexpressing PDE-5. Int J Pharm 2023; 645:123409. [PMID: 37722496 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Fluorescent sulfur- and nitrogen-doped carbon nanodots (CDs) are zero-dimensional nanoparticles that mediate ROS production in cancer cells, displaying inherent anticancer properties. Thus, they have been proposed as nanotheranostic tools useful in image-guided cancer therapy. Here, we try to show that cancerous cells (high PDE-5 expression) receiving sildenafil delivered by CDs-based nanostructures promote positive reinforcement of PDE-5-mediated cell death via the overexpression of genes involved in the production of ROS. We explored the regioselective Huisgen cycloaddition between azide-β-cyclodextrin and CDs-alkyne to synthetize homogeneous nanostructures, named CDs-PEG4-β-Cdx, consisting of CDs functionalized at the surface with β-cyclodextrins capable of including high amount drugs such as sildenafil (>20 % w/w), and releasing them in a controlled manner. We investigated how CDs-PEG4-β-Cdx bearing sildenafil enter cells, enhancing ROS production and cell death specifically in cancer cells overexpressing PDE-5. These nanoplatforms go beyond the bounds of EPR-based nanomedicines in which carriers are conceived as inert vehicles of toxic drugs. Our findings enable the development of clever anticancer nanoplatforms that synergistically combine nanomedicines that perturb the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ROS production) with PDE-5 inhibitors which trigger oxidative stress specifically in cancer cells regardless of their location.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Roberta Cillari
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Mara Andrea Utzeri
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Costa
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation-National Research Council (IRIB-CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; Advanced Technologies Network Center, Viale Delle Scienze Ed. 18, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Giammona G, Drago SE, Calabrese G, Varvarà P, Rizzo MG, Mauro N, Nicotra G, Conoci S, Pitarresi G. Galactosylated Polymer/Gold Nanorods Nanocomposites for Sustained and Pulsed Chemo-Photothermal Treatments of Hepatocarcinoma. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14112503. [PMID: 36432694 PMCID: PMC9696514 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, we propose a rational design of a hybrid nanosystem capable of locally delivering a high amount of hydrophobic anticancer drugs (sorafenib or lenvatinib) and heat (hyperthermia) in a remote-controlled manner. We combined in a unique nanosystem the excellent NIR photothermal conversion of gold nanorods (AuNRs) with the ability of a specially designed galactosylated amphiphilic graft copolymer (PHEA-g-BIB-pButMA-g-PEG-GAL) able to recognize hepatic cells overexpressing the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) on their membranes, thus giving rise to a smart composite nanosystem for the NIR-triggered chemo-phototherapy of hepatocarcinoma. In order to allow the internalization of AuNRs in the hydrophobic core of polymeric nanoparticles, AuNRs were coated with a thiolated fatty acid (12-mercaptododecanoic acid). The drug-loaded hybrid nanoparticles were prepared by the nanoprecipitation method, obtaining nanoparticles of about 200 nm and drug loadings of 9.0 and 5.4% w/w for sorafenib and lenvatinib, respectively. These multifunctional nanosystems have shown to convert NIR radiation into heat and release charged drugs in a remote-controlled manner. Then, the biocompatibility and synergistic effects of a chemo-phototherapy combination, as well the receptor-mediated internalization, were evaluated by an in vitro test on HepG2, HuH7, and NHDF. The results indicate that the proposed nanoparticles can be considered to be virtuous candidates for an efficient and selective dual-mode therapy of hepatocarcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Emanuele Drago
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanna Calabrese
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Paola Varvarà
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Giovanna Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Nicolò Mauro
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Nicotra
- Istituto per la Microelettronica e Microsistemi, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR-IMM) 95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Sabrina Conoci
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, 98168 Messina, Italy
- Istituto per la Microelettronica e Microsistemi, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR-IMM) 95121 Catania, Italy
- Department of Chemistry ‘‘Giacomo Ciamician’’, University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanna Pitarresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-091-23891954
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Martorana A, Pitarresi G, Palumbo FS, Catania V, Schillaci D, Mauro N, Fiorica C, Giammona G. Fabrication of silver nanoparticles by a diethylene triamine-hyaluronic acid derivative and use as antibacterial coating. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 295:119861. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2022.119861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
6
|
Mauro N, Giammona G, Ranucci E, Ferruti P. Synthesis of Biocompatible and Biodegradable Polyamidoamines Microgels via a Simple and Reliable Statistical Approach. Materials (Basel) 2022; 15:7280. [PMID: 36295345 PMCID: PMC9611214 DOI: 10.3390/ma15207280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Polyamidoamines (PAAs) are biocompatible and biodegradable polymers with a huge potential as biomaterials for pharmaceutical applications. They are obtained by the step-wise aza-Michael polyaddition of bifunctional or multifunctional amines with bisacrylamides in water. To the best of our knowledge, no synthetic protocols leading to hyperbranched PAAs as well as PAA microgels have been published so far. To fill this gap, a statistical approach was established in this work to fine-tune the aza-Michael polyaddition stoichiometry when a multifunctional co-monomer (bf) is added to a mixture of bifunctional monomers with complementary functions (a2 + b2), possibly even in presence of a monofunctional co-monomer (b1), for obtaining either microgels or hyperbranched polymers by a one-pot reaction. For this purpose, two new equations, obtained by reworking the classic Flory-Stockmayer equations, were successfully applied to the synthesis of different model systems, obtaining biocompatible microgels with tunable size distribution (200-500 nm) and properly designed end-chains in a simple and straightforward way. The same mathematical approach allowed us to empirically evaluate the actual number of active reactive functions of the co-monomers. A number of selected systems, being evaluated for their cytotoxicity in vitro, proved highly cytocompatible and, therefore, endowed with great potential for pharmaceutical and medical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of “Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche” (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of “Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche” (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Ranucci
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo Ferruti
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mauro N, Utzeri MA, Cillari R, Scialabba C, Giammona G, Cavallaro G. Cholesterol-Inulin Conjugates for Efficient SN38 Nuclear Delivery: Nanomedicines for Precision Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194857. [PMID: 36230779 PMCID: PMC9563076 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Severe limitations of conventional chemotherapy including unspecific biodistribution both at the tissue and cell organelle level have led to the necessity of developing precise and personalized therapeutic strategies. Accordingly, nanomedicine has aroused increased attention due to the versatility and precision of nano-sized drug delivery systems. One of the main advantage offered by well-designed nanoplatforms is the possibility to load, stabilize, and deliver (also at intracellular level) hydrophobic anticancer drugs, whose clinical use is strongly affected by their lower bioavailability. In this overview, the synthesis of polymeric nano-sized core-shell micelle-like nanostructures is a promising delivery strategy for hydrophobic drugs due to their excellent drug loading efficacy, stability in aqueous media, and versatile design. On these grounds, we developed stable and biodegradable inulin-based micelles for the delivery of SN38, chosen as a powerful poorly water-soluble anticancer drug. We designed an amphiphilic polysaccharide hydrophobized by partial functionalization with thiocholesterol moieties (INU-Cys-TC) via disulfide redox-sensitive bridges. We demonstrated that INU-Cys-TC can self-assemble into micelles at low concentration, encapsulating a high amount of SN38 (INU-Cys-TC@SN38) to be released in a sustained fashion. INU-Cys-TC@SN38 has proven to be capable of entering cancer and normal cells, releasing their payload, especially inside cell nuclei, where SN38 can act, providing the maximum inhibition of its molecular target. However, due to a different cell localization, INU-Cys-TC@SN38 was much more toxic for cancer cells, improving the SN38 selectivity, precision, and enhancing its anticancer effect not only toward colorectal cells, but also for breast cancer cells. This is a good example of drug repurposing due to innovative environment-sensitive delivery strategies. Abstract An amphiphilic inulin-thiocholesterol conjugate (INU-Cys-TC) was strategically designed as a biodegradable core-shell nanocarrier of 7-ethyl-10-hydroxy-camptothecin (SN38) to enhance its solubility and stability in aqueous media, thus exploiting its brilliant anticancer effect. INU-Cys-TC was designed to have the hydrophilic inulin backbone (external shell) partially functionalized with hydrophobic thiocholesterol moieties (internal core) through a biodegradable disulfide bond due to cysteamine bridges. Thiocholesterol moieties impair redox-sensitive self-assembling abilities, yielding to nano-sized micelles in aqueous media capable of efficiently encapsulating a high amount of SN38 (DL = 8.1%). Micelles (INU-Cys-TC@SN38) were widely characterized, demonstrating an effective and stable delivery strategy to overcome the poor water-solubility of SN38. SN38-loaded micelles showed a gradual and prolonged release of SN38 over time, and a cell- and time-dependent cytotoxicity. In particular, we show that micelles efficiently deliver SN38 inside cell nuclei, and, compared to normal cell lines, they can also enter cancer cells by endo-lysosomes, where a complete degradation can occur releasing the drug payload. Overall, the proposed micelles appear potentially effective as nanomedicines for precision cancer therapies of colorectal and breast cancer, thus improving the SN38 therapeutic index and extending its use in a huge plethora of cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90133 Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-09150291908
| | - Mara Andrea Utzeri
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberta Cillari
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Cinzia Scialabba
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90133 Palermo, Italy
- Advanced Technology Environment Network Center, Viale Delle Scienze Ed. 18, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Craparo EF, Cabibbo M, Scialabba C, Giammona G, Cavallaro G. Inhalable Formulation Based on Lipid-Polymer Hybrid Nanoparticles for the Macrophage Targeted Delivery of Roflumilast. Biomacromolecules 2022; 23:3439-3451. [PMID: 35899612 PMCID: PMC9364311 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c00576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Here, novel lipid–polymer hybrid nanoparticles
(LPHNPs),
targeted to lung macrophages, were realized as potential carriers
for Roflumilast administration in the management of chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD). To achieve this, Roflumilast-loaded fluorescent
polymeric nanoparticles, based on a polyaspartamide-polycaprolactone
graft copolymer, and lipid vesicles, made from 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-phosphoethanolamine-N-(polyethylene glycol)-mannose,
were properly combined using a two-step method, successfully obtaining
Roflumilast-loaded hybrid fluorescent nanoparticles (Man-LPHFNPs@Roflumilast).
These exhibit colloidal size and a negative ζ potential, 50
wt % phospholipids, and a core–shell-type morphology; they
slowly release the entrapped drug in a simulated physiological fluid.
The surface analysis also demonstrated their high surface PEG density,
which confers mucus-penetrating properties. Man-LPHFNPs@Roflumilast
show high cytocompatibility toward human bronchial epithelium cells
and macrophages and are uptaken by the latter through an active mannose-mediated
targeting process. To achieve an inhalable formulation, the nano-into-micro
strategy was applied, encapsulating Man-LPHFNPs@Roflumilast in poly(vinyl
alcohol)/leucine-based microparticles by spray-drying.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela F Craparo
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo 90123, Italy.,Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Materiali (INSTM) of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marta Cabibbo
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo 90123, Italy
| | - Cinzia Scialabba
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo 90123, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo 90123, Italy.,Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Materiali (INSTM) of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo 90123, Italy.,Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Materiali (INSTM) of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Advanced Technology and Network Center (ATeN Center), Università di Palermo, Palermo 90133, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mauro N, Utzeri MA, Sciortino A, Messina F, Cannas M, Popescu R, Gerthsen D, Buscarino G, Cavallaro G, Giammona G. Decagram-Scale Synthesis of Multicolor Carbon Nanodots: Self-Tracking Nanoheaters with Inherent and Selective Anticancer Properties. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2022; 14:2551-2563. [PMID: 34985246 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c19599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Carbon nanodots (CDs) are a new class of carbon-based nanoparticles endowed with photoluminescence, high specific surface area, and good photothermal conversion, which have spearheaded many breakthroughs in medicine, especially in drug delivery and cancer theranostics. However, the tight control of their structural, optical, and biological properties and the synthesis scale-up have been very difficult so far. Here, we report for the first time an efficient protocol for the one-step synthesis of decagram-scale quantities of N,S-doped CDs with a narrow size distribution, along with a single nanostructure multicolor emission, high near-infrared (NIR) photothermal conversion efficiency, and selective reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in cancer cells. This allows achieving targeted and multimodal cytotoxic effects (i.e., photothermal and oxidative stresses) in cancer cells by applying biocompatible NIR laser sources that can be remotely controlled under the guidance of fluorescence imaging. Hence, our findings open up a range of possibilities for real-world biomedical applications, among which is cancer theranostics. In this work, indocyanine green is used as a bidentate SOx donor which has the ability to tune surface groups and emission bands of CDs obtained by solvothermal decomposition of citric acid and urea in N,N-dimethylformamide. The co-doping implies various surface states providing transitions in the visible region, thus eliciting a tunable multicolor emission from blue to red and excellent photothermal efficiency in the NIR region useful in bioimaging applications and image-guided anticancer phototherapy. The fluorescence self-tracking capability of SOx-CDs reveals that they can enter cancer cells more quickly than healthy cell lines and undergo a different intracellular fate after cell internalization. This could explain why sulfur doping entails pro-oxidative activities by triggering more ROS generation in cancer cells when compared to healthy cell lines. We also find that oxidative stress can be locally enhanced under the effects of a NIR laser at moderate power density (2.5 W cm-2). Overall, these findings suggest that SOx-CDs are endowed with inherent drug-independent cytotoxic effects toward cancer cells, which would be selectively enhanced by external NIR light irradiation and helpful in precision anticancer approaches. Also, this work opens a debate on the role of CD surface engineering in determining nanotoxicity as a function of cell metabolism, thus allowing a rational design of next-generation nanomaterials with targeted anticancer properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Mara Andrea Utzeri
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Alice Sciortino
- Department of Physics and Chemistry (DiFC) "E. Segrè", University of Palermo, via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Messina
- Department of Physics and Chemistry (DiFC) "E. Segrè", University of Palermo, via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy
- ATeNCenter, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze─Ed. 18/A, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Marco Cannas
- Department of Physics and Chemistry (DiFC) "E. Segrè", University of Palermo, via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Radian Popescu
- Laboratory for Electron Microscopy, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology|KIT, Finanzmanagement Kaiserstraße 12, D-76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Dagmar Gerthsen
- Laboratory for Electron Microscopy, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology|KIT, Finanzmanagement Kaiserstraße 12, D-76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Gianpiero Buscarino
- Department of Physics and Chemistry (DiFC) "E. Segrè", University of Palermo, via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy
- ATeNCenter, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze─Ed. 18/A, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
- ATeNCenter, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze─Ed. 18/A, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Fiorica C, Palumbo FS, Pitarresi G, Biscari G, Martorana A, Calà C, Maida CM, Giammona G. Ciprofloxacin releasing gellan gum/polydopamine based hydrogels with near infrared activated photothermal properties. Int J Pharm 2021; 610:121231. [PMID: 34715261 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
In this work, with the aim to obtain a wound dressing hydrogel, an amine derivative of gellan gum was crosslinked in the presence of 4arm-polyethylenglycole-vinylsulfone. Through this easy and reproducible chemical procedure, a hydrogel with advanced elastic properties and hydrolytic resistance under physiological conditions was obtained. The incorporation of different quantities of polydopamine in the gelling solutions allows to obtain different hydrogels with marked photothermal properties when irradiated with a laser in the near infrared at 810 nm. The organic nanoparticles, reacting with the amino groups of the polysaccharide derivative, contribute to increase the storage moduli of the hydrogels. Ciprofloxacin was loaded into the hydrogel with higher amount of polydopamine and drug delivery experiments were performed to investigate the effect of irradiation on the antibiotic release profile. Antimicrobial studies, evaluated against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, revealed that generated hyperthermia exerts a direct inhibition on the pathogens growth and, in the case of S. aureus, adjuvates the ciprofloxacin antimicrobial effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Calogero Fiorica
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Fabio Salvatore Palumbo
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanna Pitarresi
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Giuseppina Biscari
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Annalisa Martorana
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Cinzia Calà
- Department of Scienze per la Promozione della Salute e Materno Infantile - G. d'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 133, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Carmelo Massimo Maida
- Department of Scienze per la Promozione della Salute e Materno Infantile - G. d'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 133, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Pitarresi G, Palumbo FS, Fiorica C, Bongiovì F, Martorana A, Federico S, Chinnici CM, Giammona G. Composite Hydrogels of Alkyl Functionalized Gellan Gum Derivative and Hydroxyapatite/Tricalcium Phosphate Nanoparticles as Injectable Scaffolds for bone Regeneration. Macromol Biosci 2021; 22:e2100290. [PMID: 34755459 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202100290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
An alkyl functionalized gellan gum derivative is here used to produce hydrogels containing hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphate nanoparticles as injectable nanostructured scaffolds for bone regeneration. The amphiphilic nature of the polysaccharide derivative along with its thermotropic behavior and ionotropic crosslinking features make possible to produce injectable bone mimetic scaffolds that can be used to release viable cells and osteoinductive biomolecules. The influence of different nanoparticles concentration on the rheological and physicochemical properties of the injectable systems is studied. It is found that the presence of inorganic nanoparticles reinforces the 3D hydrated polymeric networks without influencing their injectability but improving the physicochemical properties of ionotropic crosslinked hydrogels produced with two different curing media. Preliminary cytocompatibility tests performed with murine preosteoblast cells revealed that gellan gum based hydrogels can safely encapsulate viable cells. Loading and release experiments for dexamethasone and stromal cell-derived factor-1 demonstrate the drug delivery features of the obtained injectable systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Pitarresi
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Fabio Salvatore Palumbo
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Calogero Fiorica
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Flavia Bongiovì
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Annalisa Martorana
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Salvatore Federico
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| | - Cinzia Maria Chinnici
- Department of Research, Mediterranean Institute for Transplantation and Advanced Specialized Therapies (IRCCS-ISMETT), Palermo, 90127, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Università degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, Palermo, 90123, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sciortino A, Ferrante F, Gonçalves G, Tobias G, Popescu R, Gerthsen D, Mauro N, Giammona G, Buscarino G, Gelardi FM, Agnello S, Cannas M, Duca D, Messina F. Ultrafast Interface Charge Separation in Carbon Nanodot-Nanotube Hybrids. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2021; 13:49232-49241. [PMID: 34609127 PMCID: PMC8532113 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c16929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Carbon dots are an emerging family of zero-dimensional nanocarbons behaving as tunable light harvesters and photoactivated charge donors. Coupling them to carbon nanotubes, which are well-known electron acceptors with excellent charge transport capabilities, is very promising for several applications. Here, we first devised a route to achieve the stable electrostatic binding of carbon dots to multi- or single-walled carbon nanotubes, as confirmed by several experimental observations. The photoluminescence of carbon dots is strongly quenched when they contact either semiconductive or conductive nanotubes, indicating a strong electronic coupling to both. Theoretical simulations predict a favorable energy level alignment within these complexes, suggesting a photoinduced electron transfer from dots to nanotubes, which is a process of high functional interest. Femtosecond transient absorption confirms indeed an ultrafast (<100 fs) electron transfer independent of nanotubes being conductive or semiconductive in nature, followed by a much slower back electron transfer (≈60 ps) from the nanotube to the carbon dots. The high degree of charge separation and delocalization achieved in these nanohybrids entails significant photocatalytic properties, as we demonstrate by the reduction of silver ions in solution. The results are very promising in view of using these "all-carbon" nanohybrids as efficient light harvesters for applications in artificial photocatalysis and photosynthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Sciortino
- Dipartimento
di Fisica e Chimica—Emilio Segrè, Universitá degli studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Edificio 17, Palermo 90128, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferrante
- Dipartimento
di Fisica e Chimica—Emilio Segrè, Universitá degli studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Edificio 17, Palermo 90128, Italy
| | - Gil Gonçalves
- TEMA,
Mechanical Engineering Department, University
of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Gerard Tobias
- Institut
de Ciència de Materials de Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC), Campus de la UAB, Bellaterra (Barcelona) 08193, Spain
| | - Radian Popescu
- Laboratory
for Electron Microscopy, Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology, Engesserstrasse
7, Karlsruhe 76131, Germany
| | - Dagmar Gerthsen
- Laboratory
for Electron Microscopy, Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology, Engesserstrasse
7, Karlsruhe 76131, Germany
| | - Nicolò Mauro
- Dipartimento
di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo 90123, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento
di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo 90123, Italy
| | - Gianpiero Buscarino
- Dipartimento
di Fisica e Chimica—Emilio Segrè, Universitá degli studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Edificio 17, Palermo 90128, Italy
- CHAB—ATeN
Center, Università degli studi di
Palermo, Viale delle
scienze, Edificio 18, Palermo 90128, Italy
| | - Franco M. Gelardi
- Dipartimento
di Fisica e Chimica—Emilio Segrè, Universitá degli studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Edificio 17, Palermo 90128, Italy
| | - Simonpietro Agnello
- Dipartimento
di Fisica e Chimica—Emilio Segrè, Universitá degli studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Edificio 17, Palermo 90128, Italy
- CHAB—ATeN
Center, Università degli studi di
Palermo, Viale delle
scienze, Edificio 18, Palermo 90128, Italy
| | - Marco Cannas
- Dipartimento
di Fisica e Chimica—Emilio Segrè, Universitá degli studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Edificio 17, Palermo 90128, Italy
| | - Dario Duca
- Dipartimento
di Fisica e Chimica—Emilio Segrè, Universitá degli studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Edificio 17, Palermo 90128, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Messina
- Dipartimento
di Fisica e Chimica—Emilio Segrè, Universitá degli studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Edificio 17, Palermo 90128, Italy
- CHAB—ATeN
Center, Università degli studi di
Palermo, Viale delle
scienze, Edificio 18, Palermo 90128, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Palumbo FS, Federico S, Pitarresi G, Fiorica C, Giammona G. Synthesis and characterization of redox-sensitive polyurethanes based on l-glutathione oxidized and poly(ether ester) triblock copolymers. REACT FUNCT POLYM 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reactfunctpolym.2021.104986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
14
|
Cicero L, Licciardi M, Cirincione R, Puleio R, Giammona G, Giglia G, Sardo P, Edoardo Vigni G, Cioffi A, Sanfilippo A, Cassata G. Polybutylene succinate artificial scaffold for peripheral nerve regeneration. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2021; 110:125-134. [PMID: 34180135 PMCID: PMC9290626 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.34896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Regeneration and recovery of nerve tissues are a great challenge for medicine, and positively affect the quality of life of patients. The development of tissue engineering offers a new approach to the problem with the creation of multifunctional artificial scaffolds that act on various levels in the damaged tissue, providing physical and biochemical support for the growth of nerve cells. In this study, the effects of the use of a tubular scaffold made of polybutylene succinate (PBS), surgically positioned at the level of a sciatic nerve injured in rat, between the proximal stump and the distal one, was investigated. Scaffolds characterization was carried out by scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray microcomputed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, in vivo. The demonstration of the nerve regeneration was based on the evaluation of electroneurography, measuring the weight of gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles, histological examination of regenerated nerves and observing the recovery of the locomotor activity of animals. The PBS tubular scaffold minimized iatrogenic trauma on the nerve, acting as a directional guide for the regenerating fibers by conveying them toward the distal stump. In this context, neurotrophic and neurotropic factors may accumulate and perform their functions, while invasion by macrophages and scar tissue is hampered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cicero
- Centro Mediterraneo Ricerca e Training (Ce.Me.Ri.T)Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”PalermoItaly
| | - Mariano Licciardi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF)Università degli Studi di PalermoPalermoItaly
| | - Roberta Cirincione
- Centro Mediterraneo Ricerca e Training (Ce.Me.Ri.T)Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”PalermoItaly
| | - Roberto Puleio
- Centro Mediterraneo Ricerca e Training (Ce.Me.Ri.T)Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”PalermoItaly
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF)Università degli Studi di PalermoPalermoItaly
| | - Giuseppe Giglia
- Dipartimento di BiomedicinaNeuroscienze e Diagnostica Avanzata (BiND) Università degli Studi di PalermoPalermoItaly
| | - Pierangelo Sardo
- Dipartimento di BiomedicinaNeuroscienze e Diagnostica Avanzata (BiND) Università degli Studi di PalermoPalermoItaly
| | - Giulio Edoardo Vigni
- Dipartimento di Discipline Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e StomatologicheUniversità degli Studi di PalermoPalermoItaly
| | - Alessio Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Discipline Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e StomatologicheUniversità degli Studi di PalermoPalermoItaly
| | - Antonino Sanfilippo
- Dipartimento di Discipline Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e StomatologicheUniversità degli Studi di PalermoPalermoItaly
| | - Giovanni Cassata
- Centro Mediterraneo Ricerca e Training (Ce.Me.Ri.T)Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”PalermoItaly
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Fiorica C, Biscari G, Palumbo FS, Pitarresi G, Martorana A, Giammona G. Physicochemical and Rheological Characterization of Different Low Molecular Weight Gellan Gum Products and Derived Ionotropic Crosslinked Hydrogels. Gels 2021; 7:62. [PMID: 34073308 PMCID: PMC8162344 DOI: 10.3390/gels7020062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A series of four different low molecular weight gellan gum products was obtained by alkaline hydrolysis with the aim to investigate the impact of the molecular weight on the rheological properties of the polysaccharide aqueous dispersions and on the physicochemical characteristics of derived ionotropic crosslinked hydrogels. In particular, thermo-rheological analysis was conducted on aqueous dispersions to study the influence of molecular weight on the thermogelation properties typical of the native polysaccharide while strain sweep experiments were conducted to establish if aqueous dispersion shows a viscoelastic behavior. The effect of different Ca2+ on the rheological properties of hydrogels were studied. Furthermore, ionotropic crosslinked hydrogels were analyzed in terms of morphology on the dried state and swelling behavior, while their viscoelastic properties were studied by means of rheological analysis conducted in frequency sweep regime after different time points of incubation in phosphate buffer at pH 7.4. Release experiments conducted using fluorescein isothiocyanate labelled dextran as a model diffusion agent and was performed to investigate the possibility of using the low molecular weight GG-derived hydrogels as an active molecule-releasing device. Finally, the cytocompatibility of hydrolysis products was investigated, as well as the capacity of hydrogels to encapsulate viable MC3T3-E1 preosteoblastic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Calogero Fiorica
- Department of “Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche” (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (G.B.); (F.S.P.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (G.G.)
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mauro N, Utzeri MA, Drago SE, Nicosia A, Costa S, Cavallaro G, Giammona G. Hyaluronic acid dressing of hydrophobic carbon nanodots: A self-assembling strategy of hybrid nanocomposites with theranostic potential. Carbohydr Polym 2021; 267:118213. [PMID: 34119168 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2021.118213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We propose a rational design of hyaluronic acid-dressed red-emissive carbon dots (CDs), with a well-structured hydrophobic core capable of locally delivering high amount doxorubicin (Doxo) (> 9% w/w) and heat (hyperthermia) in a light stimuli sensitive fashion. We combined in a unique micelle-like superstructure the peculiar optical properties of CDs (NIR photothermal conversion and red fluorescence) with the ability of hyaluronic acid (HA) shell of stabilizing nanomedicines in aqueous environment and recognizing cancer cells overexpressing CD44 receptors on their membranes, thus giving rise to smart theranostic agents useful in cancer imaging and NIR-triggered chemo-phototherapy of solid tumors. Hydrophobic CDs, named HCDs, were used as functional beads to self-assemble amphiphilic HA derivatives carrying polylactic acid side chains (HA-g-PLA), yielding to light-sensitive and biodegradable core-shell superstructures. We explored the biocompatibility and synergistic effects of chemo-phototherapy combination, together with fluorescence imaging, showing the huge potential of the proposed engineering strategy in improving efficacy. CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Mara Andrea Utzeri
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Emanuele Drago
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation-National Research Council (IRIB-CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Costa
- Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; Institute of Biophysics at Palermo, Italian National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Craparo EF, Cabibbo M, Conigliaro A, Barreca MM, Musumeci T, Giammona G, Cavallaro G. Rapamycin-Loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles as an Advanced Formulation for Macrophage Targeting in Atherosclerosis. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13040503. [PMID: 33916918 PMCID: PMC8067637 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13040503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, rapamycin (Rapa) represents a potential drug treatment to induce regression of atherosclerotic plaques; however, its use requires site-specific accumulation in the vessels involved in the formation of the plaques to avoid the systemic effects resulting from its indiscriminate biodistribution. In this work, a stable pharmaceutical formulation for Rapa was realized as a dried powder to be dispersed extemporaneously before administration. The latter was constituted by mannitol (Man) as an excipient and a Rapa-loaded polymeric nanoparticle carrier. These nanoparticles were obtained by nanoprecipitation and using as a starting polymeric material a polycaprolactone (PCL)/α,β-poly(N-2-hydroxyethyl)-dl-aspartamide (PHEA) graft copolymer. To obtain nanoparticles targeted to macrophages, an oxidized phospholipid with a high affinity for the CD36 receptor of macrophages, the 1-(palmitoyl)-2-(5-keto-6-octene-dioyl) phosphatidylcholine (KOdia-PC), was added to the starting organic phase. The chemical–physical and technological characterization of the obtained nanoparticles demonstrated that: both the drug loading (DL%) and the entrapment efficiency (EE%) entrapped drug are high; the entrapped drug is in the amorphous state, protected from degradation and slowly released from the polymeric matrix; and the KOdia-PC is on the nanoparticle surface (KP-Nano). The biological characterization demonstrated that both systems are quickly internalized by macrophages while maintaining the activity of the drug. In vitro studies demonstrated that the effect of KP-Nano Rapa-loaded, in reducing the amount of the Phospo-Ser757-ULK1 protein through the inhibition of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), is comparable to that of the free drug.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Fabiola Craparo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.C.); (G.G.)
- Correspondence: (E.F.C.); (G.C.); Tel.: +39-091-23891937 (E.F.C.); +39-091-23891931 (G.C.)
| | - Marta Cabibbo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.C.); (G.G.)
| | - Alice Conigliaro
- Department of BioMedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), University of Palermo, Via Divisi 83, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.M.B.)
| | - Maria Magdalena Barreca
- Department of BioMedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), University of Palermo, Via Divisi 83, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.M.B.)
| | - Teresa Musumeci
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 64, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.C.); (G.G.)
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.C.); (G.G.)
- Correspondence: (E.F.C.); (G.C.); Tel.: +39-091-23891937 (E.F.C.); +39-091-23891931 (G.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Federico S, Pitarresi G, Palumbo FS, Fiorica C, Catania V, Schillaci D, Giammona G. An asymmetric electrospun membrane for the controlled release of ciprofloxacin and FGF-2: Evaluation of antimicrobial and chemoattractant properties. Mater Sci Eng C Mater Biol Appl 2021; 123:112001. [PMID: 33812621 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.112001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Here, an asymmetric double-layer membrane has been designed and fabricated by electrospinning as a tool for a potential wound healing application. A hydrophobic layer has been produced by using a polyurethane-polycaprolactone (PU-PCL) copolymer and loaded with the antibacterial ciprofloxacin whereas an ion responsive hydrophilic layer has been produced by using an octyl derivative of gellan gum (GG-C8) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and loaded with the growth factor FGF-2. This study investigated how the properties of this asymmetric membrane loaded with actives, were influenced by the ionotropic crosslinking of the hydrophilic layer. In particular, the treatment in DPBS and the crosslinking in CaCl2 0.1 or 1 M of the hydrophilic layer affected the release profile of the bioactive molecules allowing to modulate both the antimicrobial effect, as assayed by logarithmic reduction of the Staphylococcus aureus viable count, and the chemoattractant properties on NIH 3 T3 cell line, as assayed by scratch test and cell chemoattraction assay.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Federico
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanna Pitarresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Fabio S Palumbo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Calogero Fiorica
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Valentina Catania
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Domenico Schillaci
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; Institute of Biophysics at Palermo, Italian National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Fiorica C, Palumbo FS, Pitarresi G, Puleio R, Condorelli L, Collura G, Giammona G. A hyaluronic acid/cyclodextrin based injectable hydrogel for local doxorubicin delivery to solid tumors. Int J Pharm 2020; 589:119879. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
20
|
Mauro N, Utzeri MA, Buscarino G, Sciortino A, Messina F, Cavallaro G, Giammona G. Pressure-Dependent Tuning of Photoluminescence and Size Distribution of Carbon Nanodots for Theranostic Anticancer Applications. Materials (Basel) 2020; 13:E4899. [PMID: 33142826 PMCID: PMC7662895 DOI: 10.3390/ma13214899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Carbon nanodots (CDs) have recently attracted attention in the field of nanomedicine because of the biocompatibility, cost-effective nature, high specific surface, good near infrared (NIR) photothermal conversion into heat and tunable fluorescence properties, which have paved the way toward incorporating use of CDs into innovative anticancer theranostic platforms. However, a reliable synthesis of CDs with established and controlled physiochemical proprieties is precluded owing to the lack of full manipulation of thermodynamic parameters during the synthesis, thus limiting their use in real world medical applications. Herein, we developed a robust solvothermal protocol which allow fine controlling of temperature and pressure in order to obtain CDs with tunable properties. We obtained different CDs by modulating the operating pressure (from 8 to 18.5 bar) during the solvothermal decomposition of urea and citric acid in N,N-dimethylformamide at fixed composition. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) and fluorescence spectroscopy were used to assess the role of pressure in influencing size, optical and surface properties of the obtained CDs. While preliminary biological and anticancer performance of CDs was established on the MDA-MB-231 cell line, used as triple negative breast cancer model. Our results indicate that pressure impinge on the formation of carbon nanoparticles under solvothermal conditions and impart desired optical, size distribution, surface functionalization and anticancer properties in a facile way. However, we have highlighted that a strategic surface engineering of these CDs is needed to limit the adsorption of corona proteins and also to increase the average surface diameter, avoiding a rapid renal clearance and improving their therapeutic efficacy in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.U.); (G.C.); (G.G.)
- Fondazione Umberto Veronesi, Piazza Velasca 5, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Mara Andrea Utzeri
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.U.); (G.C.); (G.G.)
| | - Gianpiero Buscarino
- Department of Physics and Chemistry “E. Segrè”, University of Palermo, via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (G.B.); (A.S.); (F.M.)
| | - Alice Sciortino
- Department of Physics and Chemistry “E. Segrè”, University of Palermo, via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (G.B.); (A.S.); (F.M.)
| | - Fabrizio Messina
- Department of Physics and Chemistry “E. Segrè”, University of Palermo, via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (G.B.); (A.S.); (F.M.)
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.U.); (G.C.); (G.G.)
- Institute of Biophysics at Palermo, Italian National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.U.); (G.C.); (G.G.)
- Institute of Biophysics at Palermo, Italian National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Mauro N, Utzeri MA, Drago SE, Buscarino G, Cavallaro G, Giammona G. Carbon Nanodots as Functional Excipient to Develop Highly Stable and Smart PLGA Nanoparticles Useful in Cancer Theranostics. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E1012. [PMID: 33113976 PMCID: PMC7690707 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12111012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Theranostic systems have attracted considerable attention for their multifunctional approach to cancer. Among these, carbon nanodots (CDs) emerged as luminescent nanomaterials due to their exceptional chemical properties, synthetic ease, biocompatibility, and for their photothermal and fluorescent properties useful in cancer photothermal therapy. However, premature renal excretion due to the small size of these particles limits their biomedical application. To overcome these limitations, here, hybrid poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA-CDs) nanoparticles with suitable size distribution and stability have been developed. CDs were decisive in the preparation of polymeric nanoparticles, not only conferring them photothermal and fluorescent properties, needed in theranostics, but also having a strategic role in the stabilization of the system in aqueous media. In fact, CDs provide stable PLGA-based nanoparticles in aqueous media and sufficient cryoprotection in combination with 1% PVP. While PLGA nanoparticles required at least 5% of sucrose. Comparing nanosystems with different CDs content, it is also evident how these positively impinge on the loading and release of the drug, favoring high drug loading (~4.5%) and a sustained drug release over 48 h. The therapeutic and imaging potentials were finally confirmed through in vitro studies on a breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) using fluorescence imaging and the MTS cell viability assay.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.U.); (S.E.D.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (G.G.)
- Fondazione Umberto Veronesi, Piazza Velasca 5, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Mara Andrea Utzeri
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.U.); (S.E.D.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (G.G.)
| | - Salvatore Emanuele Drago
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.U.); (S.E.D.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (G.G.)
| | - Gianpiero Buscarino
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.U.); (S.E.D.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (G.G.)
- Department of Physics and Chemistry (DiFC), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.U.); (S.E.D.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (G.G.)
- Institute of Biophysics at Palermo, Italian National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.U.); (S.E.D.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (G.G.)
- Institute of Biophysics at Palermo, Italian National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mauro N, Fiorica C, Giuffrè M, Calà C, Maida CM, Giammona G. A self-sterilizing fluorescent nanocomposite as versatile material with broad-spectrum antibiofilm features. Mater Sci Eng C Mater Biol Appl 2020; 117:111308. [PMID: 32919669 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2020.111308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hematogenous spread of infections from colonized central intravenous catheters or central lines is a long-recognized problem with infection rates of 2 and 6.8 per 1000 days, respectively. Besides, removal of severe microbial colonization of implanted biomaterials is still a challenge and usually requires invasive operations. Hence, on demand self-sterilizing materials are required to avoid explant of colonized biomaterials and improve patient compliance. Moreover, photoluminescence is needed to make trackable biomaterials, which can be easily monitored upon implanting them in the body. Here, we propose the incorporation of near infrared (NIR) sensitive red-emitting carbon nanodot (CDs) into a polymeric matrix to give rise to innovative biomaterials with self-tracking and photothermal antimicrobial abilities. We obtain a material which can be processed to obtain medical devices using different techniques, among which, for instance, electrospinning. Herein, a proof-of-concept preparation of electrospun scaffolds is reported as it is highly desired in biomedical applications. Beside to confer imaging properties to the scaffold, that would allow an easy control over the in vivo positioning of implanted biomaterials as well as its degradation state and grade of integration with the surrounding native tissues, thanks to the capability to convert NIR light into local heat CDs can be exploited to exert broad-spectrum antimicrobial effect toward several pathogens. The rise in temperature can be easily modulated by controlling the irradiation time to achieve both an in vitro self-sterilization of the device and eventually in vivo destabilization of the microbial colonization. This innovative biomaterial could successfully inhibit biofilm formation and might be used as a powerful tool to treat antibiotic-resistant nature of biofilm-related infections in implanted medical devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy; Fondazione Umberto Veronesi, Piazza Velasca 5, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Calogero Fiorica
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Mario Giuffrè
- Department of Scienze per la Promozione della Salute e Materno Infantile - G. d'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 133, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Cinzia Calà
- Department of Scienze per la Promozione della Salute e Materno Infantile - G. d'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 133, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Carmelo Massimo Maida
- Department of Scienze per la Promozione della Salute e Materno Infantile - G. d'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 133, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Craparo EF, Drago SE, Giammona G, Cavallaro G. Production of polymeric micro- and nanostructures with tunable properties as pharmaceutical delivery systems. POLYMER 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2020.122596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
24
|
Porsio B, Lentini L, Ungaro F, Di Leonardo A, Quaglia F, Giammona G, Cavallaro G. Inhalable nano into micro dry powders for ivacaftor delivery: The role of mannitol and cysteamine as mucus-active agents. Int J Pharm 2020; 582:119304. [PMID: 32272167 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In this paper the innovative approach of nano into micro dry powders (NiM) was applied to incorporate into mannitol or mannitol/cysteamine micromatrices ivacaftor-loaded nanoparticles for pulmonary delivery in CF. Nanoparticles composed by a mixture of two polyhydrohydroxyethtylaspartamide copolymers containing loaded with ivacaftor at 15.5% w/w were produced. The nanoparticles were incorporated into microparticles to obtain NiM that were fully characterized in terms of size, morphology, interactions with artificial Cf mucus (CF-AM) as well as for aerodynamic behaviour. Finally the activity of ivacaftor-containing NiM was evaluated by in vitro preliminary experiments. NiM at matrix composed by a mixture of mannitol:cysteamine showed greater ability to reduce CF-AM viscosity whereas that based on just mannitol showed better aerodynamic properties with a FPF of about 25%. All produced NiM showed very good cytocompatibility and the released ivacaftor was able to restore the chroride transport in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Porsio
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Laura Lentini
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesca Ungaro
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Italy
| | - Aldo Di Leonardo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Fabiana Quaglia
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
De Mohac LM, Caruana R, Cavallaro G, Giammona G, Licciardi M. Spray-Drying, Solvent-Casting and Freeze-Drying Techniques: a Comparative Study on their Suitability for the Enhancement of Drug Dissolution Rates. Pharm Res 2020; 37:57. [PMID: 32076880 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-020-2778-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Solid dispersions (SDs) represent the most common formulation technique used to increase the dissolution rate of a drug. In this work, the three most common methods used to prepare SDs, namely spray-drying, solvent-casting and freeze-drying, have been compared in order to investigate their effect on increasing drug dissolution rate. METHODS Three formulation strategies were used to prepare a polymer mixture of polyvinyl-alcohol (PVA) and maltodextrin (MDX) as SDs loaded with the following three model drugs, all of which possess a poor solubility: Olanzapine, Dexamethasone, and Triamcinolone acetonide. The SDs obtained were analysed and compared in terms of drug particle size, drug-loading capacity, surface homogeneity, and dissolution profile enhancement. Physical-chemical characterisation was conducted on pure drugs, as well as the formulations made, by way of thermal analysis and infrared spectroscopy. RESULT The polymers used were able to increase drug saturation solubility. The formulation strategies affected the drug particle size, with the solvent-casting method resulting in more homogenous particle size and distribution when compared to the other methods. The greatest enhancement in the drug dissolution rate was seen for all the samples prepared using the solvent-casting method. CONCLUSION All of the methods used were able to increase the dissolution rate of the pure drugs alone, however, the solvent-casting method produced SDs with a higher surface homogeneity, drug incorporation capability, and faster dissolution profile than the other techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Modica De Mohac
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della Salute e Materno Infantile "Giuseppe D'Alessandro", Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto Caruana
- Advanced Technologies Network Center (ATeN Center), University of Palermo, Viale Delle Scienze - Edificio, 18 - 90128, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 - 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 - 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Mariano Licciardi
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 - 90123, Palermo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Palumbo FS, Federico S, Pitarresi G, Fiorica C, Giammona G. Gellan gum-based delivery systems of therapeutic agents and cells. Carbohydr Polym 2020; 229:115430. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2019.115430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
|
27
|
Craparo EF, Drago SE, Mauro N, Giammona G, Cavallaro G. Design of New Polyaspartamide Copolymers for siRNA Delivery in Antiasthmatic Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E89. [PMID: 31979001 PMCID: PMC7076449 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12020089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, a novel protonable copolymer was realized for the production of polyplexes with a siRNA (inhibitor of STAT6 expression in asthma), with the aim of a pulmonary administration. The polycation was synthesized by derivatization of α,β-poly(N-2-hydroxyethyl)d,l-aspartamide (PHEA) with 1,2-Bis(3-aminopropylamino)ethane (bAPAE) in proper conditions to obtain a PHEA-g-bAPAE graft copolymer with a derivatization degree in amine (DDbAPAE%) equal to 35 mol%. The copolymer showed a proper buffering behavior, i.e., ranging between pH 5 and 7.4, to potentially give the endosomal escape of the obtained polycations. In effect, an in vitro experiment demonstrated the effect on biological membranes of the copolymer on bronchial epithelial cells (16-HBE) strongly dependent on the pH of the medium, i.e., higher at pH 5. bAPAE-based copolymers were further obtained with an increasing pegylation degree, i.e., equal to 1.9, 2.7, and 4.4 mol%, respectively. All the obtained copolymers were able to complex siRNA at a N/P ratio that decreases as the pegylation degree increases. At the same time, the tendency of polyplexes to aggregate and the capability to interact with mucin also decreases as the pegylation in the copolymer increases. Gene silencing experiments on 16-HBE showed that these copolymers have a significant role in improving the intracellular transport of naked siRNA, where the presence of PEG does not seem to hinder the cellular uptake of polyplexes. The latter obtained at polymer/siRNA weight ratio (R) equal to 10 with PHEA-g-PEG(C)-g-bAPAE also seems to be not susceptible to the presence of mucin, avoiding the polyanionic exchange of complexed siRNA, thus showing adequate behavior to be used as an effective vector for siRNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Fabiola Craparo
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (E.F.C.); (S.E.D.); (N.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Salvatore Emanuele Drago
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (E.F.C.); (S.E.D.); (N.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Nicolò Mauro
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (E.F.C.); (S.E.D.); (N.M.); (G.G.)
- Fondazione Umberto Veronesi, Piazza Velasca 5, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (E.F.C.); (S.E.D.); (N.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Lab of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (E.F.C.); (S.E.D.); (N.M.); (G.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Bongiovì F, Fiorica C, Palumbo FS, Pitarresi G, Giammona G. Hyaluronic acid based nanohydrogels fabricated by microfluidics for the potential targeted release of Imatinib: Characterization and preliminary evaluation of the antiangiogenic effect. Int J Pharm 2020; 573:118851. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.118851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
|
29
|
Paolino M, Licciardi M, Savoca C, Giammona G, Modica De Mohac L, Reale A, Giuliani G, Komber H, Donati A, Leone G, Magnani A, Anzini M, Cappelli A. Hyaluronan Graft Copolymers Bearing Fatty-Acid Residues as Self-Assembling Nanoparticles for Olanzapine Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:E675. [PMID: 31842344 PMCID: PMC6956235 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11120675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to evaluate the potential of a technology platform based on hyaluronan copolymers grafted with propargylated ferulate fluorophores (HA-FA-Pg) in the development of drug delivery systems, the propargyl groups of HA-FA-Pg derivatives were employed with oleic acid (OA) or stearic acid (SA) residues across a biocompatible hexa(ethylene glycol) (HEG) spacer. The designed materials (i.e., HA-FA-HEG-OA or HA-FA-HEG-SA) showed clear-cut aggregation features in an aqueous environment, as confirmed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), generating nanoaggregate systems. In fact, HA-FA-HEG-OA and HA-FA-HEG-SA derivatives showed the property to create self-assembled cytocompatible nanostructured aggregates in water, thanks to the simultaneous presence of hydrophilic portions in the polymeric backbone, such as hyaluronic acid, and hydrophobic portions in the side chains. Furthermore, the designed materials interact with living cells showing a high degree of cytocompatibility. The potential ability of nanosystems to load pharmacologically active molecules was assessed by the physical entrapment of olanzapine into both polymeric systems. The drug loading evaluation demonstrated that the nanoparticles are able to incorporate a good quantity of olanzapine, as well as improve drug solubility, release profile, and cytocompatibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Paolino
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia (Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022), Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.L.); (A.M.); (M.A.); (A.C.)
| | - Mariano Licciardi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.L.); (C.S.); (G.G.)
| | - Cristina Savoca
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.L.); (C.S.); (G.G.)
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (M.L.); (C.S.); (G.G.)
| | - Laura Modica De Mohac
- Dipartimento Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza “G. D’Alessandro” (PROMISE), Università degli Studi di Palermo, 90100 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Annalisa Reale
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia (Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022), Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.L.); (A.M.); (M.A.); (A.C.)
| | - Germano Giuliani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia (Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022), Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.L.); (A.M.); (M.A.); (A.C.)
| | - Hartmut Komber
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research, Hohe Strasse 6, 01069 Dresden, Germany;
| | - Alessandro Donati
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia (Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022), Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.L.); (A.M.); (M.A.); (A.C.)
| | - Gemma Leone
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia (Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022), Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.L.); (A.M.); (M.A.); (A.C.)
| | - Agnese Magnani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia (Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022), Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.L.); (A.M.); (M.A.); (A.C.)
| | - Maurizio Anzini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia (Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022), Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.L.); (A.M.); (M.A.); (A.C.)
| | - Andrea Cappelli
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia (Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022), Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.L.); (A.M.); (M.A.); (A.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Palumbo FS, Bongiovì F, Carfì Pavia F, Vitrano I, La Carrubba V, Pitarresi G, Brucato V, Giammona G. Blend scaffolds with polyaspartamide/polyester structure fabricated via TIPS and their RGDC functionalization to promote osteoblast adhesion and proliferation. J Biomed Mater Res A 2019; 107:2726-2735. [PMID: 31404485 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Target of this work was to prepare a RGDC functionalized hybrid biomaterial via TIPS technique to achieve a more efficient control of osteoblast adhesion and diffusion on the three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds. Starting from a crystalline poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) and an amorphous α,β-poly(N-2-hydroxyethyl) (2-aminoethylcarbamate)-d,l-aspartamide-graft-polylactic acid (PHEA-EDA-g-PLA) copolymer, blend scaffolds were characterized by an appropriate porosity and pore interconnection. The PHEA-EDA-PLA interpenetration with PLLA improved hydrolytic susceptibility of hybrid scaffolds. The presence of free amino groups on scaffolds allowed to tether the cyclic RGD peptide (RGDC) via Michael addition using the maleimide chemistry. Cell culture test carried out on preosteoblastic cells MC3T3-E1 incubated with scaffolds, has evidenced cell adhesion and proliferation. Furthermore, the presence of distributed bone matrix on all scaffolds was evaluated after 70 days compared to PLLA only samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio S Palumbo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Flavia Bongiovì
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Carfì Pavia
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Bio and Tissue Engineering Lab, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Advanced Technologies Network (ATeN) Center, Palermo, Italy.,Interuniversitary Consortium of Material Science and Technology (INSTM) - Palermo Research Unit, Palermo, Italy
| | - Ilenia Vitrano
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Bio and Tissue Engineering Lab, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo La Carrubba
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Bio and Tissue Engineering Lab, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Advanced Technologies Network (ATeN) Center, Palermo, Italy.,Interuniversitary Consortium of Material Science and Technology (INSTM) - Palermo Research Unit, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanna Pitarresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Valerio Brucato
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Bio and Tissue Engineering Lab, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Interuniversitary Consortium of Material Science and Technology (INSTM) - Palermo Research Unit, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Italian National Research Council, Institute of Biophysics, Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Di Prima G, Licciardi M, Carfì Pavia F, Lo Monte AI, Cavallaro G, Giammona G. Microfibrillar polymeric ocular inserts for triamcinolone acetonide delivery. Int J Pharm 2019; 567:118459. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.118459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
|
32
|
De Mohac LM, Caruana R, Pavia FC, Cavallaro G, Giammona G, Licciardi M. Multicomponent solid dispersion as a formulation strategy to improve drug permeation: A case study on the anti-colorectal cancer irinotecan. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2019.04.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
|
33
|
Fiorica C, Tomasello L, Palumbo FS, Coppola A, Pitarresi G, Pizzolanti G, Giordano C, Giammona G. Production of a Double-Layer Scaffold for the "On-Demand" Release of Fibroblast-like Limbal Stem Cells. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2019; 11:22206-22217. [PMID: 31144805 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b06757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The production and characterization of a double-layer scaffold, to be used as a system for the "on-demand" release of corneal limbal stem cells, are reported here. The devices used in the clinics and proposed so far in the scientific literature, for the release of corneal stem cells in the treatment of limbal stem cell deficiency, cannot control the in vivo space-time release of cells as the biomaterial of which they are composed is devoid of the stimuli-responsive feature. Our approach was to produce a scaffold composed of two different polymeric layers that give the device the appropriate mechanical properties to be placed on the ocular surface and the possibility of releasing the stem cells following a noninvasive and cell-friendly treatment. This device consists of an electrospun microfibrillar scaffold of poly-l-lactic acid coated by a polymeric film based on an amphiphilic derivative of hyaluronic acid sensitive to the ionic strength of the external medium and to the presence of a complexing agent. The latter represents the "sacrificial" cell containing layer of the scaffold that can be dissolved "on demand" by the treatment with a solution of cyclodextrins. The rapid removal of the external polymeric film from the device is exploited to control the space-time release of the cells. In vitro and ex vivo experiments showed that fibroblast-like limbal stem cells cultured on the scaffold without the use of the feeder layer maintained their characteristics of stem cells and can be released "on demand" on the culture well coated with Matrigel or on the decellularized bovine cornea, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Calogero Fiorica
- Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF) , University of Palermo , Via Archirafi 32 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| | - Laura Tomasello
- Department of "Promozione Della Salute Materno Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza" "G. D'Alessandro" (ProMise) , University of Palermo , Piazza Delle Cliniche 2 , 90127 Palermo , Italy
| | - Fabio S Palumbo
- Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF) , University of Palermo , Via Archirafi 32 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| | - Antonina Coppola
- Department of "Promozione Della Salute Materno Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza" "G. D'Alessandro" (ProMise) , University of Palermo , Piazza Delle Cliniche 2 , 90127 Palermo , Italy
| | - Giovanna Pitarresi
- Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF) , University of Palermo , Via Archirafi 32 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pizzolanti
- Department of "Promozione Della Salute Materno Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza" "G. D'Alessandro" (ProMise) , University of Palermo , Piazza Delle Cliniche 2 , 90127 Palermo , Italy
| | - Carla Giordano
- Department of "Promozione Della Salute Materno Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza" "G. D'Alessandro" (ProMise) , University of Palermo , Piazza Delle Cliniche 2 , 90127 Palermo , Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF) , University of Palermo , Via Archirafi 32 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Scialabba C, Sciortino A, Messina F, Buscarino G, Cannas M, Roscigno G, Condorelli G, Cavallaro G, Giammona G, Mauro N. Highly Homogeneous Biotinylated Carbon Nanodots: Red-Emitting Nanoheaters as Theranostic Agents toward Precision Cancer Medicine. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2019; 11:19854-19866. [PMID: 31088077 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b04925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Very recent red-emissive carbon nanodots (CDs) have shown potential as near-infrared converting tools to produce local heat useful in cancer theranostics. Besides, CDs seem very appealing for clinical applications combining hyperthermia, imaging, and drug delivery in a single platform capable of selectively targeting cancer cells. However, CDs still suffer from dramatic dot-to-dot variability issues such that a rational design of their structural, optical, and chemical characteristics for medical applications has been impossible so far. Herein, we report for the first time a simple and highly controllable layer-by-layer synthesis of biotin-decorated CDs with monodisperse size distribution, well established polymeric shell thickness, and degree of surface functionalization, endowed with strong red luminescence and the ability to convert NIR light into heat. These CDs, henceforth named CDs-PEG-BT, consist of a carbonaceous core passivated with biotin-terminated PEG2000 chains, which we demonstrate as active targeting groups to recognize cancer cells. The CDs-PEG-BT are designed to efficiently incorporate a high amount of anticancer drugs such as irinotecan (16-28%) and to act as NIR-activated nanoheaters capable of triggering local hyperthermia and massive drug release inside tumors, thus provoking sudden and efficient tumor death. The potential of the irinotecan-loaded CDs-PEG-BT (CDs-PEG-BT@IT) in fluorescence imaging was studied on 2D cultures and on complex 3D spheroids mimicking in vivo tumor architectures, showing their capability of selectively entering cancer cells through biotin receptors overexpressed in cell membranes. The efficient anticancer effect of these CDs was thoroughly assessed on multicellular 3D spheroids and patient organoids (tumor-on-a-dish preclinical models) to predict the drug response in humans in view of personalized medicine applications. CDs-PEG-BT@IT have a smart combination of properties, which pave the way to their real-world use as anticancer theranostic agents for image-guided photothermal applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Scialabba
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF) , University of Palermo , Via Archirafi 32 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| | - Alice Sciortino
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Chimica , Università degli Studi di Palermo , Via Archirafi 36 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| | - Fabrizio Messina
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Chimica , Università degli Studi di Palermo , Via Archirafi 36 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| | - Gianpiero Buscarino
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Chimica , Università degli Studi di Palermo , Via Archirafi 36 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| | - Marco Cannas
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Chimica , Università degli Studi di Palermo , Via Archirafi 36 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| | - Giuseppina Roscigno
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology , "Federico II" University of Naples , 80131 Naples , Italy
- Fondazione Umberto Veronesi , Piazza Velasca 5 , 20122 Milano , Italy
| | - Gerolama Condorelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology , "Federico II" University of Naples , 80131 Naples , Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF) , University of Palermo , Via Archirafi 32 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF) , University of Palermo , Via Archirafi 32 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
| | - Nicolò Mauro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF) , University of Palermo , Via Archirafi 32 , 90123 Palermo , Italy
- Fondazione Umberto Veronesi , Piazza Velasca 5 , 20122 Milano , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Sardo C, Di Domenico EG, Porsio B, De Rocco D, Santucci R, Ascenzioni F, Giammona G, Cavallaro G. Nanometric ion pair complexes of tobramycin forming microparticles for the treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in cystic fibrosis. Int J Pharm 2019; 563:347-357. [PMID: 30935918 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.03.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Sustained pulmonary delivery of tobramycin from microparticles composed of drug/polymer nanocomplexes offers several advantages against traditional delivery methods. Namely, in patients with cystic fibrosis, microparticle delivery can protect the tobramycin being delivered from strong mucoadhesive interactions, thus avoiding effects on its diffusion toward the infection site. Polymeric ion-pair complexes were obtained starting from two synthetic polyanions, through impregnation of their solid dissociated forms with tobramycin in aqueous solution. The structure of these polymeric systems was characterized, and their activities were examined against various biofilm-forming Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Once dried, the nanocomplexes can change their aggregation state, to form microparticle-based aggregates with a spherical shape and a micrometer size. In aqueous dispersions, the ion-pair complexes produced had nanometric size, negative ζ potential, and high biocompatibility toward human bronchial epithelium cells. The antibiofilm activity of these formulations was more efficient than for free tobramycin, with the antibiofilm activity against P. aeruginosa mucoid and nonmucoid end-stage strains isolated from cystic fibrosis lungs being of particular relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Sardo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Enea Gino Di Domenico
- Department of Clinical Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, Via Elio Chianesi, 53, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Porsio
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Davide De Rocco
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology C. Darwin, University of Rome Sapienza, Via dei Sardi 70, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Santucci
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology C. Darwin, University of Rome Sapienza, Via dei Sardi 70, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorentina Ascenzioni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology C. Darwin, University of Rome Sapienza, Via dei Sardi 70, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Amore E, Manca ML, Ferraro M, Valenti D, La Parola V, Di Vincenzo S, Gjomarkaj M, Giammona G, Bondì ML, Pace E. Salmeterol Xinafoate (SX) loaded into mucoadhesive solid lipid microparticles for COPD treatment. Int J Pharm 2019; 562:351-358. [PMID: 30935915 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.03.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the main health problems worldwide. It is characterised by chronic inflammation in the lungs that leads to progressive, chronic, largely irreversible airflow obstruction. The use of long-acting β agonists remain today the frontline treatment for COPD with the aim of minimizing side effects and enhancing therapeutic usefulness. To this purpose, in this paper, mucoadhesive solid lipid microparticles (SLMs) containing a long-acting β-2 agonist, Salmeterol Xinafoate (SX) were prepared, characterised (size, z-potential, aerodynamic diameter, turbidimetric evaluations, drug loading and entrapping efficiency) and tested in a model of bronchial epithelial cells. It was demonstrated that the incorporation of SX into SLMs led to the production of particles suitable for inhalation and more efficient than the free molecule at increasing the cAMP expression in bronchial epithelial cells. In conclusion, the prepared systems, due to their aerodynamic behaviour and mucoadhesive properties, could improve the retention time of SX in the lung epithelium and its therapeutic effect, thus representing a good strategy for the treatment of COPD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika Amore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; Istituto per lo Studio dei Materiali Nanostrutturati (ISMN), U.O.S. Palermo, CNR, Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Manca
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Sezione Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Ferraro
- Istituto di Biomedicina e Immunologia Molecolare (IBIM), CNR, Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Donatella Valenti
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Sezione Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valeria La Parola
- Istituto per lo Studio dei Materiali Nanostrutturati (ISMN), U.O.S. Palermo, CNR, Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Serena Di Vincenzo
- Istituto di Biomedicina e Immunologia Molecolare (IBIM), CNR, Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Mark Gjomarkaj
- Istituto di Biomedicina e Immunologia Molecolare (IBIM), CNR, Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Bondì
- Istituto per lo Studio dei Materiali Nanostrutturati (ISMN), U.O.S. Palermo, CNR, Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Pace
- Istituto di Biomedicina e Immunologia Molecolare (IBIM), CNR, Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Licciardi M, Scialabba C, Puleio R, Cassata G, Cicero L, Cavallaro G, Giammona G. Smart copolymer coated SPIONs for colon cancer chemotherapy. Int J Pharm 2019; 556:57-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2018.11.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
38
|
Di Prima G, Bongiovì F, Palumbo FS, Pitarresi G, Licciardi M, Giammona G. Mucoadhesive PEGylated inulin-based self-assembling nanoparticles: In vitro and ex vivo transcorneal permeation enhancement of corticosteroids. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2018.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
39
|
Mauro N, Scialabba C, Puleio R, Varvarà P, Licciardi M, Cavallaro G, Giammona G. SPIONs embedded in polyamino acid nanogels to synergistically treat tumor microenvironment and breast cancer cells. Int J Pharm 2018; 555:207-219. [PMID: 30458257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2018.11.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The extremely complex tumor microenvironment (TME) in humans is the major responsible for the therapeutic failure in cancer nanomedicine. A new concept of disease-driven nanomedicine, henceforth named "Theranomics", which attempts to target cancer cells and TME on the whole, represents an attractive alternative. Herein, a nanomedicine able to co-deliver doxorubicin and a tumor suppressive proteolytic protein such as collagenase-2 was developed. We successfully obtained superparamagnetic nanogels (SPIONs/Doco@Col) via the intermolecular azide-alkyne Huisgen cycloaddition. We demonstrated that a local ECM degradation and remodeling in solid tumors by means of collagenase-2 could enhance tumor penetration of nanomedicines and the in situ sustained release of the drug payload throughout 3-D tumor spheroids up to the core (parenchyma), thus enabling a synergistic and efficient anticancer effect toward highly invasive breast tumors. We illustrate that SPIONs/Doxo@Col is also capable of reducing the invasivity of cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; Fondazione Umberto Veronesi, Piazza Velasca 5, 20122 Milano, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Scialabba
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto Puleio
- Area Diagnostica Specialistica, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, via Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Paola Varvarà
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Mariano Licciardi
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; Institute of Biophysics, Italian National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Palumbo FS, Agnello S, Fiorica C, Pitarresi G, Giammona G. Chemical stiffening of constructs between polymeric microparticles based on a hyaluronic acid derivative and mesenchymal stem cells: rheological and in vitro
viability studies. POLYM INT 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/pi.5722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio S Palumbo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF); Università degli Studi di Palermo; Palermo Italy
| | - Stefano Agnello
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF); Università degli Studi di Palermo; Palermo Italy
| | - Calogero Fiorica
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF); Università degli Studi di Palermo; Palermo Italy
| | - Giovanna Pitarresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF); Università degli Studi di Palermo; Palermo Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF); Università degli Studi di Palermo; Palermo Italy
- Institute of Biophysics at Palermo, Italian National Research Council; Palermo Italy
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Bongiovì F, Fiorica C, Palumbo FS, Di Prima G, Giammona G, Pitarresi G. Imatinib-Loaded Micelles of Hyaluronic Acid Derivatives for Potential Treatment of Neovascular Ocular Diseases. Mol Pharm 2018; 15:5031-5045. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.8b00620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Bongiovì
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Calogero Fiorica
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Fabio S. Palumbo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Prima
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
- Institute of Biophysics at Palermo, Italian National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanna Pitarresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Sciortino A, Gazzetto M, Buscarino G, Popescu R, Schneider R, Giammona G, Gerthsen D, Rohwer EJ, Mauro N, Feurer T, Cannizzo A, Messina F. Disentangling size effects and spectral inhomogeneity in carbon nanodots by ultrafast dynamical hole-burning. Nanoscale 2018; 10:15317-15323. [PMID: 30069566 DOI: 10.1039/c8nr02953a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Carbon nanodots (CDs) are a novel family of nanomaterials exhibiting unique optical properties. In particular, their bright and tunable fluorescence redefines the paradigm of carbon as a "black" material and is considered very appealing for many applications. While the field keeps growing, understanding CDs fundamental properties and relating them to their variable structures becomes more and more critical. Two crucial problems concern the effect of size on the electronic structure of CDs, and to what extent their optical properties are influenced by structural disorder. Furthermore, it remains largely unclear whether traditional concepts borrowed from the photo-physics of semiconductor quantum dots can be applied to any type of CDs. We used femtosecond optical hole burning to address the excited-state properties of a family of CDs with the specific structure of β-C3N4. The experiments provide compelling evidence of the dramatic effects of structural heterogeneity on the optical spectra, and reveal the remarkably simple pattern of the electronic transitions of these CDs, normally obscured by disorder. Moreover, the data conclusively clarify the different effects of the nanometric size and of the disordered surface structure on the fluorescence tunability, ruling out for these CDs any quantum confinement effect comparable to semiconductor quantum dots.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Sciortino
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Chimica, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 36, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Fiorica C, Palumbo FS, Pitarresi G, Allegra M, Puleio R, Giammona G. Hyaluronic acid and α-elastin based hydrogel for three dimensional culture of vascular endothelial cells. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2018.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
44
|
Li Volsi A, Fiorica C, D'Amico M, Scialabba C, Palumbo FS, Giammona G, Licciardi M. Hybrid Gold/Silica/Quantum-Dots supramolecular-nanostructures encapsulated in polymeric micelles as potential theranostic tool for targeted cancer therapy. Eur Polym J 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
45
|
Mauro N, Volsi AL, Scialabba C, Licciardi M, Cavallaro G, Giammona G. Photothermal Ablation of Cancer Cells Using Folate-Coated Gold/ Graphene Oxide Composite. Curr Drug Deliv 2018; 14:433-443. [PMID: 27199230 DOI: 10.2174/1567201813666160520113804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2016] [Revised: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A new tumor targeted polymer-coated gold/graphene hybrid has been developed for achieving simultaneously thermoablation and chemoterapy of folate receptor-positive cancer cells. METHODS The gold/graphene hybrid was prepared by depositing gold nanospheres onto graphene oxide and coating it with an inulin-folate conjugate. Paclitaxel was loaded by sonication. The hybrid was characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, DSC analysis and SEM microscopy. The cytotoxicity, thermoablation and anticancer activity were evaluated in vitro on MCF-7 and 16 HBE. RESULTS In vitro tests showed that the paclitaxel-loaded hybrid improved the effectiveness of the drug especially after photothermal treatments. CONCLUSION On the whole, while gold/graphene composite provided an excellent time-dependent photothermal effect, the loading of paclitaxel allowed a suitable chemotherapy, thus killing cancer cells both via a selective laser beam thermoablation and hyperthermia-triggered chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Li Volsi
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Cinzia Scialabba
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Mariano Licciardi
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible PolymeLaboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo,rs, Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy. Italy
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Di Gesù R, Bondì ML, Azzolina A, Craparo EF, Botto C, Amore E, Giammona G, Cervello M. Correction to: Entrapment of an EGFR inhibitor into nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) improves its antitumor activity against human hepatocarcinoma cells. J Nanobiotechnology 2018; 16:3. [PMID: 29331149 PMCID: PMC5767036 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-017-0325-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Di Gesù
- Polymer Science Lab, Chemistry Dept "G.Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Bondì
- Istituto per lo Studio dei Materiali Nanostrutturati, U.O.S. Palermo, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Antonina Azzolina
- Istituto di Biomedicina e Immunologia Molecolare Alberto Monroy, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Emanuela Fabiola Craparo
- Lab. of Biocompatible Polymers, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Chiara Botto
- Lab. of Biocompatible Polymers, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Erika Amore
- Istituto per lo Studio dei Materiali Nanostrutturati, U.O.S. Palermo, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Lab. of Biocompatible Polymers, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Via Archirafi 32, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Melchiorre Cervello
- Istituto di Biomedicina e Immunologia Molecolare Alberto Monroy, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo la Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Mauro N, Schillaci D, Varvarà P, Cusimano MG, Geraci DM, Giuffrè M, Cavallaro G, Maida CM, Giammona G. Branched High Molecular Weight Glycopolypeptide With Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity for the Treatment of Biofilm Related Infections. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2018; 10:318-331. [PMID: 29251486 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.7b16573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
There are few therapeutic options to simultaneously tackle Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, two of the most relevant nosocomial and antibiotic-resistant pathogens responsible for implant, catheters and wound severe infections. The design and synthesis of polymers with inherent antimicrobial activity have gained increasing attention as a safe strategy to treat multi-drug-resistant microbes. Here, we tested the activity of a new polymeric derivative with glycopolypeptide architecture (PAA-VC) bearing l-arginine, vancomycin, and colistin as side chains acting against multiple targets, which give rise to a broad spectrum antimicrobial activity favorably combining specific and nonspecific perturbation of the bacterial membrane. PAA-VC has been tested against planktonic and established biofilms of reference strains S. aureus ATCC 25923 and P. aeruginosa ATCC 15442 and susceptible or antibiotic resistant clinical isolates of the above-mentioned microorganisms. MIC values observed for the conjugate (48-190 and 95-190 nM for P. aeruginosa and S. aureus strains, respectively) showed higher efficacy if compared with the free vancomycin (MICs within 1.07-4.28 μM) and colistin (MICs within 0.63-1.33 μM). Additionally, being highly biocompatible (IC50 > 1000, 430, and 250 μg mL-1 for PAA-VC, vancomycin and colistin respectively) high-dosage can be adopted for the eradication of infections in patients. This positively influences the anti-biofilm activity of the conjugate leading to a quasi-total eradication of established clinically relevant biofilms (inhibition >90% at 500 μg mL-1). We believe that the in vitro presented data, especially the activity against established biofilms of two relevant pathogens, the high biocompatibility and the good mucoadhesion properties, would allow the use of PAA-VC as promising candidate to successfully address emerging infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mauro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo , Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Domenico Schillaci
- Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo , Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Paola Varvarà
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo , Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Cusimano
- Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo , Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela Maria Geraci
- Department of "Scienze per la Promozione della Salute e Materno Infantile-G. D'Alessandro" University of Palermo , Via del Vespro 133, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Mario Giuffrè
- Department of "Scienze per la Promozione della Salute e Materno Infantile-G. D'Alessandro" University of Palermo , Via del Vespro 133, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo , Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Carmelo Massimo Maida
- Department of "Scienze per la Promozione della Salute e Materno Infantile-G. D'Alessandro" University of Palermo , Via del Vespro 133, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Laboratory of Biocompatible Polymers, Department of "Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche" (STEBICEF), University of Palermo , Via Archirafi, 32 90123 Palermo, Italy
- Mediterranean Center for Human Advanced Biotechnologies (Med-Chab) , Viale delle Scienze Ed.18, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Porsio B, Craparo EF, Mauro N, Giammona G, Cavallaro G. Mucus and Cell-Penetrating Nanoparticles Embedded in Nano-into-Micro Formulations for Pulmonary Delivery of Ivacaftor in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2018; 10:165-181. [PMID: 29235345 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.7b14992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Here, mucus-penetrating nanoparticles (NPs) for pulmonary administration of ivacaftor in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) were produced with the dual aim of enhancing ivacaftor delivery to the airway epithelial cells, by rapid diffusion through the mucus barrier, and at the same time, promoting ivacaftor lung cellular uptake. Pegylated and Tat-decorated fluorescent nanoparticles (FNPs) were produced by nanoprecipitation, starting from two synthetic copolymers, and showed nanometric sizes (∼70 nm), a slightly negative ζ potential, and high cytocompatibility toward human bronchial epithelium cells. After having showed the significant presence of poly(ethylene glycol) chains and Tat protein onto the FNP surface, the FNP mucus-penetrating ability, ivacaftor release profile, and lung cellular uptake were studied in the presence of CF-artificial mucus as a function of the FNP surface chemical composition. Moreover, microparticle-based pulmonary drug-delivery systems composed of mucus-penetrating FNPs loaded with ivacaftor and mannitol were prepared by using the nano-into-micro strategy and realized by spray-drying, thereby providing optimal preservation and stabilization of FNP technological and fluorescence properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Porsio
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo , Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Emanuela Fabiola Craparo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo , Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Nicolò Mauro
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo , Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo , Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
- Mediterranean Center for Human Health Advanced Biotechnologies (CHAB), Aten Center, University of Palermo , Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 18, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gennara Cavallaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università di Palermo , Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Agnello S, Palumbo FS, Pitarresi G, Fiorica C, Giammona G. Synthesis and evaluation of thermo-rheological behaviour and ionotropic crosslinking of new gellan gum-alkyl derivatives. Carbohydr Polym 2018; 185:73-84. [PMID: 29421062 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2018.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This paper reports the synthesis and the physicochemical characterization of two series of gellan gum (GG) derivatives functionalized with alkyl chains with different number of carbon, from 8 to 18. In particular, low molecular weight gellan gum samples with 52.6 or 96.7 kDa, respectively, were functionalized with octylamine (C8), dodecylamine (C12) and octadecylamine (C18) by using bis(4-nitrophenyl) carbonate (4-NPBC) as a coupling agent. Thermo-rheological and ionotropic crosslinking properties of these gellan gum-alkyl derivatives were evaluated and related to the degree of derivatization in alkyl chains. Results suggested as length and degree of derivatization differently influenced coil-to-helix gelation mechanism of GG derivatives, ionotropic crosslinking, and strength of crosslinked hydrogels obtained in CaCl2 0.102 M and NaCl 0.15 M. Statement of hypothesis: The insertion of alkyl chains on the gellan gum backbone interferes with coil-to-helix transition mechanism and allows the production of hydrophobically assembled hydrogels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Agnello
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Fabio Salvatore Palumbo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Pitarresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Calogero Fiorica
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; Mediterranean Center of Human Health Advanced Biotechnologies (CHAB), AteN Center, Viale delle Scienze, Edificio 18, 90128 Palermo, Italy; Institute of Biophysics at Palermo, Italian National Research Council, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Palumbo FS, Fiorica C, Pitarresi G, Zingales M, Bologna E, Giammona G. Multifibrillar bundles of a self-assembling hyaluronic acid derivative obtained through a microfluidic technique for aortic smooth muscle cell orientation and differentiation. Biomater Sci 2018; 6:2518-2526. [DOI: 10.1039/c8bm00647d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A hyaluronic acid derivative able to physically crosslink in a saline aqueous medium was employed for the production of fibers with a mean diameter of 50 μm using a microfluidic technique.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Salvatore Palumbo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF)
- Università degli Studi di Palermo
- 90123 Palermo
- Italy
| | - Calogero Fiorica
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF)
- Università degli Studi di Palermo
- 90123 Palermo
- Italy
| | - Giovanna Pitarresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF)
- Università degli Studi di Palermo
- 90123 Palermo
- Italy
| | | | - Emanuela Bologna
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Civile
- Ambientale
- Aerospaziale
- dei Materiali
- Palermo
| | - Gaetano Giammona
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF)
- Università degli Studi di Palermo
- 90123 Palermo
- Italy
- Institute of Biophysics at Palermo
| |
Collapse
|