Search Results (1,844)

Research on nano-sustained-release factors for bone tissue scaffolds has significantly promoted the precision and efficiency of bone-defect repair by integrating biomaterials science, nanotechnology, and regenerative medicine. Current research focuses on developing multifunctional scaffold materials and intelligent controlled-release systems to optimize the spatiotemporal release characteristics of growth factors, drugs, and genes. Nano slow-release bone scaffolds integrate nano slow-release factors, which are loaded with growth factors, drugs, genes, etc., with bone scaffolds, which can significantly improve the efficiency of bone repair. In addition, these drug-loading systems have also been extended to the fields of anti-infection and anti-tumor. However, the problem of heterotopic ossification caused by high doses has led to a shift in research towards a low-dose multi-factor synergistic strategy. Multiple Phase II clinical trials are currently ongoing, evaluating the efficacy and safety of nano-hydroxyapatite scaffolds. Despite significant progress, this field still faces a series of challenges: the immunity risks of the long-term retention of nanomaterials, the precise matching of multi-factor release kinetics, and the limitations of the large-scale production of personalized scaffolds. Future development directions in this area include the development of responsive sustained-release systems, biomimetic sequential release design, the more precise regeneration of injury sites through a combination of gene-editing technology and self-assembled nanomaterials, and precise drug loading and sustained release through microfluidic and bioprinting technologies to reduce the manufacturing cost of bone scaffolds. The progress of these bone scaffolds has gradually changed bone repair from morphology-matched filling regeneration to functional recovery, making the clinical transformation of bone scaffolds safer and more universal. Full article

Background: Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is a poorly water-soluble fluoroquinolone-type antibiotic that can be useful in the treatment of lung infections. When the drugs are delivered directly to the lungs, a smaller dosage is needed to achieve the desired effect compared to the oral administration. Moreover, the application of nanoparticles potentially enhances the effectiveness of the treatments while lowering the possible side effects. Therefore, we aimed to develop a “nano-in-micro” structured dry powder inhaler formulation containing CIP. Methods: A two-step preparation method was used. Firstly, a nanosuspension was first prepared using a high-performance planetary mill by wet milling. After the addition of different additives (leucine and mannitol), the solid formulations were created by spray drying. The prepared DPI samples were analyzed by using laser diffraction, nanoparticle tracking analysis, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry. The solubility and in vitro dissolution tests in artificial lung fluid and in vitro aerodynamic investigations (Spraytec^® device, Andersen Cascade Impactor) were carried out. Results: The nanosuspension (D50: 140.0 ± 12.8 nm) was successfully prepared by the particle size reduction method. The DPIs were suitable for inhalation based on the particle diameter and their spherical shape. Improved surface area and amorphization after the preparation processes led to faster drug release. The excipient-containing systems were characterized by large lung deposition (fine particle fraction around 40%) and suitable aerodynamic diameter (between 3 and 4 µm). Conclusions: We have successfully formulated a nanosized antibiotic-containing formulation for pulmonary delivery, which could provide a potential treatment for patients with different respiratory infections. Full article

Background: D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS), an amphiphilic derivative of natural vitamin E, functions as both a drug efflux inhibitor and a protector against enzymatic degradation and has been widely incorporated into nano-formulations for drug design and delivery. Objective: This systematic review evaluates TPGS-based organic nanocarriers, emphasizing their potential to enhance bioavailability of active compounds which include drugs and phytochemicals, improve pharmacokinetic profiles, and optimize therapeutic outcomes, eventually overcoming the limitations of conventional oral active compounds delivery. Search strategy: Data collection was carried out by entering key terms (TPGS) AND (Micelle OR Liposome OR Nanoparticle OR Nanotube OR Dendrimer OR Niosome OR Nanosuspension OR Nanomicelle OR Nanocrystal OR Nanosphere OR Nanocapsule) AND (Oral Bioavailability) into the Scopus database. Inclusion criteria: Full-text articles published in English and relevant to TPGS, which featured organic materials, utilized an oral administration route, and included pharmacokinetic study, were included to the final review. Data extraction and analysis: Data selection was conducted by two review authors and subsequently approved by all other authors through a consensus process. The outcomes of the included studies were reviewed and categorized based on the types of nanocarriers. Results: An initial search of the database yielded 173 records. After screening by title and abstract, 52 full-text articles were analyzed. A total of 21 papers were excluded while 31 papers were used in this review. Conclusions: This review concludes that TPGS-based organic nanocarriers are able to enhance the bioavailability of various active compounds, including several phytochemicals, leveraging TPGS’s amphiphilic nature, inhibition of efflux transporters, protection against degradation, and stabilization properties. Despite using the same excipient, variability in particle size, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency among nanocarriers indicates the need for tailored formulations. A comprehensive approach involving the development and standardized comparison of diverse TPGS-incorporated active compound formulations is essential to identify the optimal TPGS-based nanocarrier for improving a particular active compound’s bioavailability. Full article

Non-invasive phototherapy includes modalities such as photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT). When combined with tumor immunotherapy, these therapeutic approaches have demonstrated significant efficacy in treating advanced malignancies, thus attracting considerable attention from the scientific community. However, the progress of these therapies is hindered by inherent limitations and potential adverse effects. Recent findings indicate that certain therapeutic strategies, including phototherapy, can induce immunogenic cell death (ICD), thereby opening new avenues for the integration of phototherapy with tumor immunotherapy. Currently, the development of biofilm nanomaterial-encapsulated drug delivery systems has reached a mature stage. Immune cell membrane-encapsulated nano-photosensitizers hold great promise, as they can enhance the tumor immune microenvironment. Based on bioengineering technology, immune cell membranes can be designed according to the tumor immune microenvironment, thereby enhancing the targeting and immune properties of nano-photosensitizers. Additionally, the space provided by the immune cell membrane allows for the co-encapsulation of immunotherapeutic agents and chemotherapy drugs, achieving a synergistic therapeutic effect. At the same time, the timing of photodynamic therapy (PDT) can be precisely controlled to regulate the action timing of both immunotherapeutic and chemotherapy drugs. This article summarizes and analyzes current research based on the aforementioned advancements. Full article

Carbon Nanodots (CNDs) are characterized by their nanoscale size (<10 nm), biocompatibility, stability, fluorescence, and photoluminescence, making them a promising candidate for cancer therapy. The difference in the methods of synthesis of CNDs, whether top-down or bottom-up, affects the formation, visual, and surface characteristics of CNDs, which are crucial for their biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. The urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies from CNDs is due to the limitations and barriers posed by conventional therapies including drug resistance and cytotoxicity. Nano-loaded chemotherapy treatments are highly effective and can enhance the solubility and targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic agents, generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) to induce cancer cell cytotoxicity, and regulate intracellular signaling pathways. Their ability to be designed for cellular uptake and exact intracellular localization further improves their therapeutic potential. In addition to working on drug delivery, CNDs are highlighted for their dual functionality in imaging and therapy, which allows real-time observing of treatment efficacy. Despite the development of these treatments and the promising results for the future, challenges still exist in cancer treatment. Full article

Doxorubicin (DOX) is used for the treatment of various malignancies, including leukemias, lymphomas, sarcomas, and bladder, breast, and gynecological cancers in adults, adolescents, and children. However, DOX causes severe side effects in patients, such as cardiotoxicity, which encompasses heart failure, arrhythmia, and myocardial infarction. DOX-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC) is based on the combination of nuclear-mediated cardiomyocyte death and mitochondrial-mediated death. Oxidative stress, altered autophagy, inflammation, and apoptosis/ferroptosis represent the main pathogenetic mechanisms responsible for DIC. In addition, in vitro and in vivo models of DIC sirtuins (SIRT), and especially, SIRT 1 are reduced, and this event contributes to cardiac damage. In fact, SIRT 1 inhibits reactive oxygen species and NF-kB activation, thus improving myocardial oxidative stress and cardiac remodeling. Therefore, the recovery of SIRT 1 during DIC may represent a therapeutic strategy to limit DIC progression. Natural products, i.e., polyphenols, as well as nano formulations of DOX and iron chelators, are other potential compounds experimented with in models of DIC. At present, few clinical trials are available to confirm the efficacy of these products in DIC. The aim of this review is the description of the pathophysiology of DIC as well as potential drug targets to alleviate DIC. Full article

Among medicinal plants, the Panax genus (family: Araliaceae) includes plant species widely recognized for their multi-faceted pharmacological attributes. The triterpenoids, designated as ginsenosides, are increasingly recognized as drug-like molecules in cancer therapies due to their therapeutic role in restricting tumor invasion, proliferation, metastasis, apoptosis, and drug resistance reversal in tumor cells. In the nanobiotechnological era, nano-delivery systems provide feasible solutions to address bottlenecks associated with traditional drug delivery methods (low bioavailability, instability in the gastrointestinal tract, high dosage requirements, side effects, poor absorption, and incomplete drug utilization in the body). The dedicated efforts for precise and effective treatment have directed the development of ginsenoside-based nano-delivery systems to achieve potent anticancer efficacies and address the limitations in ginseng pharmacokinetics, facilitating drug development trials. Studies into ginseng pharmacokinetics showed a remarkable prolonged clearance and free drug levels of ~15% (ginsenoside RB1 nanoparticles) in mice (compared to only ~5% for ginsenosides) and better antitumor efficacies, demonstrating key success in ginseng biotechnology for drug development. Delving into the nanobiotechnological interventions in ginseng-derived therapeutics, this study summarizes current advances and achievements, particularly in cancer treatment, tackles existing gaps, focuses on feasible solutions, and examines prospects of translational success. Full article

Metal nanoparticles (MNPs) produced through biosynthesis approaches have shown favourable physical, chemical, and antimicrobial characteristics. The significance of biological agents in the synthesis of MNPs has been acknowledged as a promising alternative to conventional approaches such as physical and chemical methods, which are confronted with certain challenges. To meet these challenges, the use of endophytic fungi as nano-factories for the synthesis of MNPs has become increasingly popular worldwide in recent times. This review provides an overview of the synthesis of MNPs using endophytic fungi, the mechanisms involved, and their important biomedical applications. A special focus on different biomedical applications of MNPs mediated endophytic fungi involved their antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer applications and their potential as drug delivery agents. Furthermore, this review highlights the significance of the use of endophytic fungi for the green synthesis of MNPs and discusses the benefits, challenges, and prospects in this field. Full article

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive form of breast cancer. Common treatments following surgical resection include PD-1-targeting checkpoint inhibitors (pembrolizumab), as 20% of tumors are PD-L1 positive with or without systemic chemotherapy. Over the last several years, our laboratory has developed nano-immune conjugates (NIC) in which hydrophobic chemotherapy drugs like paclitaxel (PTX) and SN38, the active metabolite of irinotecan, are made water soluble by formulating them into albumin-based nanoparticles (nab) that are hydrophobically linked to various IgG1 monoclonal antibodies, creating an antigen-targetable nano-immune conjugate. To date, we have successfully tested PTX containing NICs linked to either VEGF- or CD20-targeted antibodies in two phase I clinical trials against multiple relapsed ovarian/uterine cancer or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, respectively. Herein, we describe a novel NIC created with either PTX or SN38 that is coated with anti-PD-L1-targeting antibodies for the treatment of a preclinical model of TNBC. In vitro testing suggests that the chemotherapy drug and antibody retain their toxicity and ligand binding capability in the context of the NIC. Furthermore, both the PTX and SN-38 NIC demonstrate superior anti-tumor efficacy relative to antibody and chemotherapy drugs alone in a PD-L1 + MDA-MB-231 human TNBC xenograft model, which could translate clinically to patients with TNBC. Full article

The rapid evolution of micro- and nano-architectures is revolutionizing biomedical engineering, particularly in the fields of therapeutic and diagnostic micromechanics. This review explores the recent innovations in micro- and nanostructured materials and their transformative impact on healthcare applications, ranging from drug delivery and tissue engineering to biosensing and diagnostics. Key advances in fabrication techniques, such as lithography, 3D printing, and self-assembly, have enabled unprecedented control over material properties and functionalities at microscopic scales. These engineered architectures offer enhanced precision in targeting and controlled release in drug delivery, foster cellular interactions in tissue engineering, and improve sensitivity and specificity in diagnostic devices. We examine critical design parameters, including biocompatibility, mechanical resilience, and scalability, which influence their clinical efficacy and long-term stability. This review also highlights the translational potential and current limitations in bringing these materials from the laboratory research to practical applications. By providing a comprehensive overview of the current trends, challenges, and future perspectives, this article aims to inform and inspire further development in micro- and nano-architectures that hold promise for advancing personalized and precision medicine. Full article

Background: Nanocrystals, a carrier-free nanotechnology, offer significant advantages for pulmonary drug delivery by enhancing the dissolution and solubility of poorly soluble drugs while maintaining favorable biological properties and low toxicity. This study aims to investigate the aerodynamic performance and stability of nanocrystal-based dry powders (NC-DPs). Methods: Nanocrystalline suspensions were produced via wet media milling and subjected to stability studies before undergoing nano spray drying. A factorial design was employed to optimize the process parameters. The influence of mannitol and leucine, individually and in combination, was evaluated in terms of aerodynamic properties (Aerodynamic Particle Sizer (APS), in silico modeling) and the physicochemical stability at room temperature (in a desiccator) and accelerated conditions (40 ± 2 °C, 75 ± 5% relative humidity). Results: APS analysis revealed that leucine-containing powders (K-NC-Ls) exhibited the smallest median (1.357 µm) and geometric mean (1.335 µm) particle sizes, enhancing dispersibility. However, in silico results indicated the highest exhaled fraction for K-NC-L, highlighting the need for optimized excipient selection. Although mannitol showed the lowest exhaled fraction, it was mainly deposited in the extra-thoracic region in silico. The mannitol/leucine combination (K-NC-ML) revealed a low exhaled fraction and high lung deposition in silico. Also, K-NC-ML demonstrated superior stability, with a 6% reduction in D[0.5] and a 5% decrease in span overtime. Furthermore, no significant changes in crystallinity, thermal behavior, drug release, or mass median aerodynamic diameter were observed under stress conditions. Conclusions: These findings confirm that combined incorporation of mannitol and leucine in NC-DP formulations enhances stability and aerodynamic performance, making it a promising approach for pulmonary drug delivery. Full article

This review summarizes the research progress in the co-delivery of natural products (NPs) and small RNAs in cancer therapy. NPs such as paclitaxel, camptothecin, and curcumin possess multi-target antitumor effects, but their applications are limited by drug resistance and non-specific distribution. Small RNAs can achieve precise antitumor effects through gene regulation, yet their delivery efficiency is low, and they are prone to degradation by nucleases. Nanomaterial-based drug delivery systems (nano-DDSs) provide an efficient platform for the co-delivery of both, which can enhance the targeting of their delivery and improve the synergistic antitumor effects simultaneously. The mechanisms of the antitumor action of natural compounds and small RNAs, the design and application of nanocarriers, and the latest research progress in co-delivery systems are introduced in detail in this paper. The application prospects of the co-delivery of natural compounds and small RNAs in cancer therapy are also discussed. Full article

Background/Objective: Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy among women worldwide, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates. Many anti-cancer drugs have been derived from medicinal plants, and frankincense from Boswellia carterii is notable for its anti-inflammatory, anti-neoplastic, and anti-carcinogenic properties. Using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), 48 components were identified in B. carterii essential oil, and the major constituent was α-pinene (35.81%). Method: In this study, we investigated the anti-tumor effects of frankincense essential oil (FEO) and its nano-formulation with chitosan (FEO-CSNPs) using in vitro breast cancer models (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and 4T1 cells) and in vivo mouse mammary carcinoma (4T1) models (Balb/c). Results: The results showed significant reductions in cell viability. At 10 μg/mL, the FEO showed the highest reduction in the C-166 cells, while at 100 μg/mL, the FEO exhibited a stronger cytotoxicity in the MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 cells compared to the FEO-CSNPs and CSNPs. The FEO-CSNPs exhibited cell growth arrest in the S, G2/M, and G1/S phases in the MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and 4T1 cell lines (36.91%, 23.12%, and 33.58%), in addition to increased apoptosis rates in the MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and 4T1 cell lines (33.04%, 36.39%, and 42.19%). The wound healing assays revealed a decreased migratory ability in the treated cells. The in vivo experiments in the balb/c mice demonstrated a reduction in the tumor volume, with a histopathological analysis confirming extensive tumor necrosis. Moreover, the FEO and FEO-CSNPs showed notable antioxidant and arginase activity. The gene expression analysis via qPCR indicated the upregulation of tumor suppressor genes and the downregulation of oncogenes. Conclusions: These findings suggest that FEO and its nano-formulation, particularly in the form of FEO-CSNPs as an oral formulation, display enhanced efficacy, warranting further preclinical and clinical research to develop innovative treatment strategies. Full article

Understanding cellular interaction with nanomaterials represents a subject of great interest for the validation of new diagnostic and therapeutic tools. A full characterization of a designed product includes the evaluation of its impact on specific biological systems, including the study of cell behavior as a response to that particular interaction. Copper and copper-based nanoparticles (CuO NPs) have emerged as valuable building blocks for various biomedical applications such as antibacterial and disinfecting agents for infectious diseases, and the evaluation of the metabolism of food, including the iron required for proteins and enzymes or as drug delivery systems in cancer therapy. In this study, the biological impact of manganese-doped crystalline copper oxide (CuO:Mn) nano-platelets on human normal BJ fibroblasts and human A375 skin melanoma was assessed. The particles were synthesized at room temperature via the hydrothermal method. A complete physicochemical characterization of the materials was performed by employing various techniques including X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering. Morphological investigations revealed a flat structure with nearly straight edges, with sizes spanning in the nanometer range. XRD analysis confirmed the formation of the CuO phase with good crystallinity, while XPS provided insights into the Mn doping. The findings indicate that nano-platelets interact with cells actively by mediating essential molecular processes. The exogenous manganese triggers increased MnSOD production in mitochondria, compensating ROS produced by external stress factors (Cu²⁺ ions), and mimics the endogenous SODs production, which compensates internal ROS production as it normally results from cell biochemistry. The effect is differentiated in normal cells compared to malignant cells and deserves investigation. Full article

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an innovative treatment that has recently been approved for clinical use and holds promise for cancer patients. It offers several benefits, such as low systemic toxicity, minimal invasiveness, and the ability to stimulate antitumor immune responses. For certain types of cancer, it has shown positive results with few side effects. However, PDT still faces some challenges, including limited light penetration into deeper tumor tissues, uneven distribution of the photosensitizer (PS) that can also affect healthy cells, and the difficulties posed by the hypoxic tumor microenvironment (TME). In hypoxic conditions, PDT’s effectiveness is reduced due to insufficient production of reactive oxygen species, which limits tumor destruction and can lead to relapse. This review highlights recent advances in photosensitizers and nanotechnologies that are being developed to improve PDT. It focuses on multifunctional nanoplatforms and nanoshuttles that have shown promise in preclinical studies, especially for treating solid tumors. One of the key areas of focus is the development of PSs that specifically target mitochondria to treat deep-seated malignant tumors. New mitochondria-targeting nano-PSs are designed with better water solubility and extended wavelength ranges, allowing them to target tumors more effectively, even in challenging, hypoxic environments. These advancements in PDT are opening new doors for cancer treatment, especially when combined with other therapeutic strategies. Moving forward, research should focus on optimizing PDT, creating more efficient drug delivery systems, and developing smarter PDT platforms. Ultimately, these efforts aim to make PDT a first-choice treatment option for cancer patients. Full article