Search Results (254)

Excessive copper ions in the human body can cause a variety of diseases, such as gastrointestinal disorders, cirrhosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Techniques like Inductively Coupled Plasma–Mass Spectroscopy and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy are available for copper detection, but the associated cost issues for sample preparation and labor limit their application for on-site detection. Herein, we are reporting a versatile method for detecting copper ions using a peptide-functionalized gold nanoparticle sensor in combination with various optical spectroscopic techniques. The peptide (CW) exhibited selective sensing ability for Cu(II) with visual colorimetric and optical spectroscopic changes compared to other metal ions tested. CW showed a visual colorimetric response from colorless to light brown color after interaction with Cu(II). Converting CW to a gold nanoparticle appended (CW-AuNPs) nanoplatform enabled a multimodal detection platform for Cu (II), which utilizes colorimetric and optical spectrum changes and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to enable highly sensitive sensing of Cu(II), even at extremely low concentrations (76 nms.). CW-AuNPs exhibit a controlled aggregation property in the presence of Cu(II), resulting in the creation of hot spots for SERS-based detection. Moreover, the peptide unit attached to the gold nanoparticles serves both as a binding motif for Cu(II) and as a Raman reporter for Cu(II) sensing. Our comprehensive analysis, including solution-state and dry-mapping Raman spectroscopic studies, demonstrates remarkable picomolar sensitivity of the peptide–gold nanoparticle system for Cu(II) detection. Moreover, we prepared a paper test strip from CW-AuNPs and used it as a visual colorimetric platform for sensitive detection of copper ions. Full article

A variety of cells can be applied as vectors for the targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic or gene therapeutic agents to neoplasms. Macrophages are regarded as promising candidates for cell-based therapy. Accurate assessments of the efficacy and safety profiles of cell-based therapy products require the collection of data on their biodistribution and fate. The study of living cell distribution in vivo necessitates the utilization of a combination of methodologies to obtain more precise data regarding the fate of cells after their administration into animals. In the present study, a murine RAW 264.7 cell line was engineered to express enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP). These cells were labeled with 50 nm magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for non-invasive real-time monitoring in mice using the magnetic particle quantification (MPQ) technique. The combination of high sensitivity and multimodality of the approach used permitted the acquisition of comprehensive data on the biodistribution of RAW-GFP cells in mice. For the first time, non-invasive, real-time monitoring of the dynamics of MNP-loaded macrophages in the bloodstream of mice has been achieved via the MPQ technique. Following intravenous administration, the cells are rapidly eliminated from the bloodstream, with subsequent accumulation mainly in the lungs and the liver. This may impose limitations on the use of such cells for drug delivery to other regions of a living organism. Full article

Self-assembly has emerged as a powerful bottom-up strategy for the construction of multifunctional nanocomposites based on upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs). In contrast to epitaxial shell growth, self-assembly enables the modular integration of UCNPs with a broad spectrum of other functional nanomaterials. This characteristic makes it particularly attractive for various practical applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of self-assembly methodologies for UCNP-based nanocomposites, including electrostatic interactions, hydrophobic interactions, covalent coupling, and specific biorecognition. The resultant nanohybrids exhibit a wide range of morphologies and functionalities, making them suitable for various applications, including multimodal imaging, bioimaging, advanced biosensing, smart nanocarriers for controlled molecular delivery, and orthogonal photoactivation for programmable therapy. Key recent studies are highlighted to elucidate the structure–function relationships and technological potential of these materials. Additionally, the current challenges, such as stability, reproducibility, and functional integration, and proposed future directions for the development of UCNP-based nanocomposites are further discussed. Full article

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and treatment-resistant primary brain tumor in adults. Despite current multimodal therapies, including surgery, radiation, and temozolomide chemotherapy, patient outcomes remain poor. Enhancing tumor radiosensitivity through biocompatible nanomaterials could provide a promising integrative strategy for improving therapeutic effectiveness. This study aims to evaluate the potential of bovine serum albumin-coated copper oxide nanoparticles (BSA@CuO-NPs) to enhance radiosensitivity in U87-MG cells under clinically relevant X-ray irradiation. In brief, BSA@CuO-NPs were synthesized via carbodiimide crosslinking and characterized by DLS, SEM, and zeta potential analysis. U87-MG cells were treated with BSA@CuO-NPs alone or in combination with X-ray irradiation (2 Gy). Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay, while radiosensitization was evaluated through clonogenic survival analysis. Apoptosis induction and DNA damage were analyzed via Annexin V staining and γ-H2AX immunofluorescence, respectively. The results revealed that BSA@CuO-NPs showed good colloidal stability and biocompatibility compared with uncoated CuO-NPs. When combined with irradiation, BSA@CuO-NPs significantly decreased clonogenic survival (p < 0.05) and increased apoptotic cell death compared to irradiation alone. Immunofluorescence demonstrated increased γ-H2AX focus formation, indicating higher DNA double-strand breaks in the combination group. In conclusion, BSA@CuO-NPs enhance the effects of ionizing radiation by increasing DNA damage and apoptosis in U87-MG cells, indicating their potential as combined radiosensitizers. These results support further research into albumin-coated metal oxide nanoparticles as adjuncts to standard radiotherapy for the management of GBM. One challenge in this context is the effective delivery of nanoparticles to GBM. However, the stability of BSA@CuO-NPs in physiological solutions could help overcome this obstacle. Full article

Nanotheranostics combines therapeutic and diagnostic functions within multifunctional nanoparticle platforms to enable precision medicine. This review outlines a comprehensive framework for engineering nanotheranostic systems, focusing on core material composition, surface functionalization, and stimuli-responsive drug delivery. Targeting strategies—from ligand-based recognition to biomimetic interfaces—are examined alongside therapeutic modalities such as chemotherapy, photothermal and photodynamic therapies, gene silencing via RNA interference, and radio sensitization. We discuss advanced imaging techniques (fluorescence imaging FI), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and photoacoustic imaging for real-time tracking and treatment guidance. Key considerations include physicochemical characterization (e.g., article size, surface charge, and morphology), biocompatibility, in-vitro efficacy, and in-vivo biodistribution. We also address challenges such as rapid biological clearance, tumor heterogeneity, and clinical translation, and propose future directions for developing safe, adaptable, and effective nanotheranostic platforms. This review serves as a roadmap for advancing next-generation nano systems in biomedical applications. Full article

Objectives: Immunotherapy combining agonists of the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase–stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway with PD-1/PD-L1 blockade shows promising preclinical results, although in clinical practice, it faces pharmacokinetic barriers, systemic toxicity, and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent advances in and expansion of the cGAS-STING pathway as a therapeutic target have further highlighted its central role in innate and adaptive immune activation. The aim of this paper is to review combination strategies of STING and PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint blockade therapies, triple-therapy strategies using a third component such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and others, and the use of nanoparticles as carriers for these drugs. Methods: Reports in the literature on the mechanisms of STING + PD-1/PD-L1 synergy, as well as with the use of a third component and delivery systems, were analyzed. Current challenges and limitations, as well as prospects for the development of these therapies, are noted. Results: Activation of the cGAS-STING synergizes with blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. The addition of a third component further enhances the anti-tumor effect through a stronger induction of immunogenic cell death (ICD), increased production of interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines, repolarization of macrophages, and enhanced infiltration of T lymphocytes. Conclusions: Therapy with STING agonists and PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors, supported by nanotechnology vehicles and using a third therapeutic component, overcomes key pharmacological and immunological limitations. This multimodal immunotherapeutic strategy holds high translational promise, offering more effective and safer solutions in cancer immunotherapy. Full article

Hemorrhagic stroke is a severe cerebrovascular disease with a high rate of disability and mortality. Its complex pathological mechanisms, such as blood–brain barrier damage, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress, along with the restrictive nature of the blood–brain barrier, have restricted the clinical therapeutic effects of drugs. Nanotechnology, with its advantages of targeting ability, biocompatibility, and multifunctionality, has provided a new approach for the precise diagnosis and treatment of hemorrhagic stroke. In terms of diagnosis, imaging technology enhanced by magnetic nanoparticles can achieve real-time bedside monitoring of hematoma dynamics and cerebral perfusion, significantly improving the timeliness compared with traditional imaging methods. In the field of treatment, the nanodrug delivery system can remarkably improve the bioavailability and brain targeting of clinical drugs and herbal medicines by enhancing drug solubility, crossing the blood–brain barrier, and responsive and targeting drug release. Multifunctional inorganic nanomaterials, such as cerium oxide nanoparticles, graphene, and perfluorooctyl octyl ether nanoparticles, can alleviate brain edema and neuronal damage through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and the scavenging of free radicals. Moreover, gene delivery mediated by nanocarriers and stem cell transplantation protection strategies have provided innovative solutions for regulating molecular pathways and promoting nerve repair. Although nanotechnology has shown great potential in the diagnosis and treatment of hemorrhagic stroke, its clinical translation still faces challenges such as the evaluation of biosafety, standardization of formulations, and verification of long-term efficacy. In the future, it is necessary to further optimize material design and combine multimodal treatment strategies to promote a substantial breakthrough in this field from basic research to clinical application. Full article

Brain ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, commonly occurring in ischemic stroke and post-cardiac arrest scenarios, results in complex secondary damage involving oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) breakdown. Despite decades of research, no pharmacological agent has yet been clinically approved for post-I/R neuroprotection. Natural compounds have recently gained attention for their multimodal therapeutic potential, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and neuroregenerative effects. This review highlights nine promising candidates—resveratrol, curcumin, quercetin, berberine, ginkgolide B, baicalin, naringin, fucoidan, and astaxanthin—that exhibit efficacy in experimental models of I/R injury when administered after the insult. Their chemical structures, pharmacokinetics, and mechanisms of action are described in detail, focusing on key signaling pathways such as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related (Nrf2), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Importantly, we outline the selection criteria for these compounds, including demonstrated neuroprotective efficacy, mechanistic clarity, and translational feasibility. While several challenges remain—such as limited bioavailability, BBB penetration, and species-specific metabolism—emerging strategies like nanoparticle delivery, synthetic analogs, and drug combinations offer potential solutions. By emphasizing the therapeutic versatility and mechanistic diversity of these natural agents, this review supports their clinical potential and encourages further preclinical optimization and biomarker-guided human trials. Full article

Asymmetric nanomotors are a class of self-propelled nanoparticles that exhibit asymmetries in shape, composition, or surface properties. Their unique asymmetry, combined with nanoscale dimensions, endows them with significant potential in environmental and biomedical fields. For instance, glutathione (GSH) induced chemotactic nanomotors can respond to the overexpressed glutathione gradient in the tumor microenvironment to achieve autonomous chemotactic movement, thereby enhancing deep tumor penetration and drug delivery for efficient induction of ferroptosis in cancer cells. Moreover, self-assembled spearhead-like silica nanomotors reduce fluidic resistance owing to their streamlined architecture, enabling ultra-efficient catalytic degradation of lipid substrates via high loading of lipase. This review focuses on three core areas of asymmetric nanomotors: scalable fabrication (covering synthetic methods such as template-assisted synthesis, physical vapor deposition, and Pickering emulsion self-assembly), propulsion mechanisms (chemical/photo/biocatalytic, ultrasound propelled, and multimodal driving), and functional applications (environmental remediation, targeted biomedicine, and microelectronic repair). Representative nanomotors were reviewed through the framework of structure–activity relationship. By systematically analyzing the intrinsic correlations between structural asymmetry, energy conversion efficiency, and ultimate functional efficacy, this framework provides critical guidance for understanding and designing high-performance asymmetric nanomotors. Despite notable progress, the prevailing challenges primarily reside in the biocompatibility limitations of metallic catalysts, insufficient navigation stability within dynamic physiological environments, and the inherent trade-off between propulsion efficiency and biocompatibility. Future efforts will address these issues through interdisciplinary synthesis strategies. Full article

The evolving paradigm of precision medicine is redefining the landscape of orthobiologic therapies by moving beyond traditional diagnosis-driven approaches toward biologically tailored interventions. This review synthesizes current evidence supporting precision orthobiologics, emphasizing the significance of individualized treatment strategies in musculoskeletal regenerative medicine. This narrative review synthesized literature from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases (January 2015–December 2024) using search terms, including ‘precision medicine,’ ‘orthobiologics,’ ‘regenerative medicine,’ ‘biomarkers,’ and ‘artificial intelligence’. Biological heterogeneity among patients with ostensibly similar clinical diagnoses—reflected in diverse inflammatory states, genetic backgrounds, and tissue degeneration patterns—necessitates patient stratification informed by molecular, genetic, and multi-omics biomarkers. These biomarkers not only enhance diagnostic accuracy but also improve prognostication and monitoring of therapeutic responses. Advanced imaging modalities such as T2 mapping, DTI, DCE-MRI, and molecular PET offer non-invasive quantification of tissue health and regenerative dynamics, further refining patient selection and treatment evaluation. Simultaneously, bioengineered delivery systems, including hydrogels, nanoparticles, and scaffolds, enable precise and sustained release of orthobiologic agents, optimizing therapeutic efficacy. Artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches are increasingly employed to integrate high-dimensional clinical, imaging, and omics datasets, facilitating predictive modeling and personalized treatment planning. Despite these advances, significant challenges persist—ranging from assay variability and lack of standardization to regulatory and economic barriers. Future progress requires large-scale multicenter validation studies, harmonization of protocols, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. By addressing these limitations, precision orthobiologics has the potential to deliver safer, more effective, and individualized care. This shift from generalized to patient-specific interventions holds promise for improving outcomes in degenerative and traumatic musculoskeletal disorders through a truly integrative, data-informed therapeutic framework. Full article

This review examines the emerging role of manganese-based nanoparticles (Mn-NPs) in detecting heavy metal pollutants in environmental matrices. Heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, zinc, and copper pose serious environmental and health concerns due to their tendency to persist in ecosystems and accumulate in living organisms. As a result, there is a growing need for reliable methods to detect and remove these pollutants. Manganese nanoparticles offer unique advantages that scientists could consider as replacing other metal nanoparticles, which may be more expensive or more toxic. The physicochemical properties of Mn-NPs—including their multiple oxidation states, magnetic susceptibility, catalytic capabilities, and semiconductor conductivity—enable the development of multi-modal sensing platforms with exceptional sensitivity and selectivity. While Mn-NPs exhibit inherently low electrical conductivity, strategies such as transition metal doping and the formation of composites with conductive materials have successfully addressed this limitation. Compared to noble metal nanoparticles (Au, Ag, Pd) and other base metal nanoparticles (Bi, Fe₃O₄), Mn-NPs demonstrate competitive performance without the drawbacks of high cost, complex synthesis, poor distribution control, or significant aggregation. Preliminary studies retrieved from the Scopus database highlight promising applications of manganese-based nanomaterials in electrochemical sensing of heavy metals, with recent developments showing detection limits in the sub-ppb range. Future research directions should focus on addressing challenges related to scalability, cost-effectiveness, and integration with existing water treatment infrastructure to accelerate the transition from laboratory findings to practical environmental applications. Full article

Cancer remains one of the most significant diseases threatening human health. The lack of effective diagnostic and therapeutic technologies is a critical factor contributing to the high clinical mortality rates associated with malignant tumors. Self-propelled micro/nano-motors (MNMs) hold promise for addressing the limitations of conventional nanoparticles in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Their unique motion characteristics enhance the efficiency of MNMs in achieving rapid distribution, deep tissue penetration, and targeted delivery in vivo. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in MNM-based therapy for tumor diagnosis and treatment, offering a comprehensive overview of their material classification, self-propelled mechanisms, targeting strategies, and therapeutic approaches. Subsequently, we discuss the therapeutic mechanisms of MNMs within the tumor microenvironment in detail and highlight the advantages of synergistic multimodal therapies, including chemodynamic therapy, sonodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, immunotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and gas therapy. Finally, we outline the main challenges and prospects for the development of MNMs in cancer diagnosis and therapy. Full article

Electrostatic adsorption plays a crucial role in nanoparticle-based drug delivery, enabling the targeted and reversible loading of biomolecules onto nanoparticles. This review explores the fundamental mechanisms governing nanoparticle–biomolecule interactions, with a focus on electrostatics, van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, and protein corona formation. Various functionalization strategies—including covalent modification, polymer coatings, and layer-by-layer assembly—have been employed to enhance electrostatic binding; however, each presents trade-offs in terms of stability, complexity, and specificity. Emerging irradiation-based techniques offer potential for direct modulation of surface charge without the addition of chemical groups, yet they remain underexplored. Accurate characterization of biomolecule adsorption is equally critical; however, the limitations of individual techniques also pose challenges to this endeavor. Spectroscopic, microscopic, and electrokinetic methods each contribute unique insights but require integration for a comprehensive understanding. Overall, a multimodal approach to both functionalization and characterization is essential for advancing nanoparticle systems toward clinical drug delivery applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cisplatin remains a cornerstone chemotherapeutic agent for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment, yet its clinical utility is substantially limited by acquired resistance and the inadequate suppression of tumor metastasis. Emerging evidence implicates interleukin 6 (IL-6) as a critical mediator of chemoresistance through cancer stem cell (CSC) enrichment and metastasis promotion via epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) induction, ultimately contributing to cisplatin therapy failure. This study sought to address these challenges by designing a nanoplatform with two innovative aims: (1) to achieve active tumor targeting through binding to the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R), and (2) to concurrently inhibit IL-6-mediated chemoresistance signaling pathways. Methods: A lipid–polymer hybrid nanoparticle (LPC) encapsulating cisplatin was synthesized and subsequently surface-functionalized with tocilizumab (TCZ), a monoclonal antibody that targets IL-6R. The therapeutic efficacy of this TCZ-modified nanoparticle (LPC-TCZ) was assessed through a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments, focusing on the inhibition of EMT, expression of CSC markers, tumor growth, and metastasis. Results: Systematic in vitro and in vivo evaluations revealed that LPC-TCZ synergistically attenuated both EMT progression and CSC marker expression through the targeted blockade of IL-6/STAT3 signaling. This multimodal therapeutic strategy demonstrated superior tumor growth inhibition and metastatic suppression compared to conventional cisplatin monotherapy. Conclusions: Our findings establish a nanotechnology-enabled approach to potentiate cisplatin efficacy by simultaneously countering chemoresistance mechanisms and metastatic pathways in NSCLC management. Full article

As critical interfaces bridging biological systems and electronic devices, the performance of bioelectrodes directly determines the sensitivity, selectivity, and reliability of biosensors. Recent advancements in functional nanomaterials (e.g., carbon nanomaterials, metallic nanoparticles, 2D materials) have substantially enhanced the application potential of bioelectrodes in disease detection, metabolic monitoring, and early diagnosis through strategic material selection, structural engineering, interface modification, and antifouling treatment. This review systematically examines the latest progress in nanomaterial-enabled interface design of bioelectrodes, with particular emphasis on performance enhancements in electrophysiological/electrochemical signal acquisition and multimodal sensing technologies. We comprehensively analyze cutting-edge developments in dynamic metabolic parameter monitoring for chronic disease management, as well as emerging research on flexible, high-sensitivity electrode interfaces for early disease diagnosis. Furthermore, this work focused on persistent technical challenges regarding nanomaterial biocompatibility and long-term operational stability while providing forward-looking perspectives on their translational applications in wearable medical devices and personalized health management systems. The proposed framework offers actionable guidance for researchers in this interdisciplinary field. Full article