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Spoială A, Ilie CI, Ficai D, Ficai A, Andronescu E. Chitosan-Based Nanocomposite Polymeric Membranes for Water Purification-A Review. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 14:2091. [PMID: 33919022 PMCID: PMC8122305 DOI: 10.3390/ma14092091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
During the past few years, researchers have focused their attention on developing innovative nanocomposite polymeric membranes with applications in water purification. Natural and synthetic polymers were considered, and it was proven that chitosan-based materials presented important features. This review presents an overview regarding diverse materials used in developing innovative chitosan-based nanocomposite polymeric membranes for water purification. The first part of the review presents a detailed introduction about chitosan, highlighting the fact that is a biocompatible, biodegradable, low-cost, nontoxic biopolymer, having unique structure and interesting properties, and also antibacterial and antioxidant activities, reasons for using it in water treatment applications. To use chitosan-based materials for developing nanocomposite polymeric membranes for wastewater purification applications must enhance their performance by using different materials. In the second part of the review, the performance's features will be presented as a consequence of adding different nanoparticles, also showing the effect that those nanoparticles could bring on other polymeric membranes. Among these features, pollutant's retention and enhancing thermo-mechanical properties will be mentioned. The focus of the third section of the review will illustrate chitosan-based nanocomposite as polymeric membranes for water purification. Over the last few years, researchers have demonstrated that adsorbent nanocomposite polymeric membranes are powerful, important, and potential instruments in separation or removal of pollutants, such as heavy metals, dyes, and other toxic compounds presented in water systems. Lastly, we conclude this review with a summary of the most important applications of chitosan-based nanocomposite polymeric membranes and their perspectives in water purification.
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Spirescu VA, Chircov C, Grumezescu AM, Andronescu E. Polymeric Nanoparticles for Antimicrobial Therapies: An Up-To-Date Overview. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:724. [PMID: 33673451 PMCID: PMC7956825 DOI: 10.3390/polym13050724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the many advancements in the pharmaceutical and medical fields and the development of numerous antimicrobial drugs aimed to suppress and destroy pathogenic microorganisms, infectious diseases still represent a major health threat affecting millions of lives daily. In addition to the limitations of antimicrobial drugs associated with low transportation rate, water solubility, oral bioavailability and stability, inefficient drug targeting, considerable toxicity, and limited patient compliance, the major cause for their inefficiency is the antimicrobial resistance of microorganisms. In this context, the risk of a pre-antibiotic era is a real possibility. For this reason, the research focus has shifted toward the discovery and development of novel and alternative antimicrobial agents that could overcome the challenges associated with conventional drugs. Nanotechnology is a possible alternative, as there is significant evidence of the broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity of nanomaterials and nanoparticles in particular. Moreover, owing to their considerable advantages regarding their efficient cargo dissolving, entrapment, encapsulation, or surface attachment, the possibility of forming antimicrobial groups for specific targeting and destruction, biocompatibility and biodegradability, low toxicity, and synergistic therapy, polymeric nanoparticles have received considerable attention as potential antimicrobial drug delivery agents. In this context, the aim of this paper is to provide an up-to-date overview of the most recent studies investigating polymeric nanoparticles designed for antimicrobial therapies, describing both their targeting strategies and their effects.
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Gherasim O, Grumezescu AM, Grumezescu V, Negut I, Dumitrescu MF, Stan MS, Nica IC, Holban AM, Socol G, Andronescu E. Bioactive Coatings Based on Hydroxyapatite, Kanamycin, and Growth Factor for Biofilm Modulation. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:160. [PMID: 33562515 PMCID: PMC7914914 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10020160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The occurrence of opportunistic local infections and improper integration of metallic implants results in severe health conditions. Protective and tunable coatings represent an attractive and challenging selection for improving the metallic devices' biofunctional performances to restore or replace bone tissue. Composite materials based on hydroxyapatite (HAp), Kanamycin (KAN), and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) are herein proposed as multifunctional coatings for hard tissue implants. The superior cytocompatibility of the obtained composite coatings was evidenced by performing proliferation and morphological assays on osteoblast cell cultures. The addition of FGF2 proved beneficial concerning the metabolic activity, adhesion, and spreading of cells. The KAN-embedded coatings exhibited significant inhibitory effects against bacterial biofilm development for at least two days, the results being superior in the case of Gram-positive pathogens. HAp-based coatings embedded with KAN and FGF2 protein are proposed as multifunctional materials with superior osseointegration potential and the ability to reduce device-associated infections.
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Geană EI, Ciucure CT, Ionete RE, Ciocârlan A, Aricu A, Ficai A, Andronescu E. Profiling of Phenolic Compounds and Triterpene Acids of Twelve Apple ( Malus domestica Borkh.) Cultivars. Foods 2021; 10:foods10020267. [PMID: 33525694 PMCID: PMC7911497 DOI: 10.3390/foods10020267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Apple (Malus domestica Borkh.), a popular and widely cultivated fruit world-wide, contains bioactive compounds responsible for their health benefits. Here we report the amounts of some bioactive compounds: two major triterpenes (oleanolic and ursolic acids) and polyphenols (phenolic acids, flavan-3-ols, flavonoids and t-resveratrol), together with bioactive properties of twelve apple cultivars measured by chromatographic and spectrophotometric methods. Significant variations were found comparing the bioactive potential of the investigated cultivars. High contents of phenolic acids were identified in the Montuan, Golden Delicious and Cretesc cultivars, while the most flavonoid dominant was the Richard cultivar. Starkrimson, Jonatan, Beliy Naliv and Richard cultivars present higher antioxidant capacity. Oleanolic acid ranged from 11 to 83 mg/g apple extract, while ursolic acid ranged from 55 to 436 mg/g apple extract, with higher amounts in Richard and Montuan cultivars. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) allowed the discrimination of apple cultivars depending on polyphenolic and triterpene acids composition. Caffeic acid, gallic acid and epicatechin were identified as the main bioactive compounds in Starkrimson, Jonathan, Beliy Naliv and Richard cultivars, while ursolic and oleanolic acids were identified in high amounts in Richard, Montuan, Golden Delicious, Idared and Beliy Naliv apple cultivars. The results obtained in this study will contribute to the understanding of the bioactive composition of apples as well as the importance of their capitalization to obtain value-added products that promote human health.
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Chircov C, Bîrcă AC, Grumezescu AM, Andronescu E. Biosensors-on-Chip: An Up-to-Date Review. Molecules 2020; 25:E6013. [PMID: 33353220 PMCID: PMC7765790 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25246013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Generally, biosensors are designed to translate physical, chemical, or biological events into measurable signals, thus offering qualitative and/or quantitative information regarding the target analytes. While the biosensor field has received considerable scientific interest, integrating this technology with microfluidics could further bring significant improvements in terms of sensitivity and specificity, resolution, automation, throughput, reproducibility, reliability, and accuracy. In this manner, biosensors-on-chip (BoC) could represent the bridging gap between diagnostics in central laboratories and diagnostics at the patient bedside, bringing substantial advancements in point-of-care (PoC) diagnostic applications. In this context, the aim of this manuscript is to provide an up-to-date overview of BoC system development and their most recent application towards the diagnosis of cancer, infectious diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders.
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Geanaliu-Nicolae RE, Andronescu E. Blended Natural Support Materials-Collagen Based Hydrogels Used in Biomedicine. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 13:E5641. [PMID: 33321865 PMCID: PMC7764196 DOI: 10.3390/ma13245641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Due to their unique properties-the are biocompatible, easily accessible, and inexpensive with programmable properties-biopolymers are used in pharmaceutical and biomedical research, as well as in cosmetics and food. Collagen is one of the most-used biomaterials in biomedicine, being the most abundant protein in animals with a triple helices structure, biocompatible, biomimetic, biodegradable, and hemostatic. Its disadvantages are its poor mechanical and thermal properties and enzymatic degradation. In order to solve this problem and to use its benefits, collagen can be used blended with other biomaterials such as alginate, chitosan, and cellulose. The purpose of this review article is to offer a brief paper with updated information on blended collagen-based formulations and their potential application in biomedicine.
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Lungu II, Nistorescu S, Badea MA, Petre AM, Udrea AM, Banici AM, Fleacă C, Andronescu E, Dinischiotu A, Dumitrache F, Staicu A, Balaș M. Doxorubicin-Conjugated Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized by Laser Pyrolysis: In Vitro Study on Human Breast Cancer Cells. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2799. [PMID: 33256060 PMCID: PMC7760716 DOI: 10.3390/polym12122799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Even today, breast cancer remains a global public problem, with a high mortality rate among women. Nanoparticle (NP) based systems are developed to enhance drug delivery, reducing the toxic effect of medicine molecules. By using iron oxide nanoparticles for cancer treatment, several advantages were highlighted: the ability to target specific locations derived from their magnetic properties and reduced side effects. The aim of this study was to examine on breast cancer cell line the anticancer potential of γ-Fe2O3 NPs loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) and stabilized with carboxymethylcellulose sodium (CMCNa). The γ-Fe2O3 NPs were synthesized by laser pyrolysis technique and their nanometric size and crystallinity were confirmed by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The loading efficiency was estimated by using absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. The DOX conjugated//CMCNa coated γ-Fe2O3 NPs proved through the biological studies to have a good anticancer effect through the inhibition of tumoral cell proliferation, disruption of the cellular membrane, induction of cell death and reduced effects on normal breast cells. Our data showed that DOX cytotoxicity increases significantly when conjugated with ɣ-Fe2O3 and ɣ-Fe2O3_CMCNa, a 50% reduction of cancer cell viability was obtained with a concentration around 0.1 µg/mL.
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Stoica AE, Grumezescu AM, Hermenean AO, Andronescu E, Vasile BS. Scar-Free Healing: Current Concepts and Future Perspectives. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 10:E2179. [PMID: 33142891 PMCID: PMC7693882 DOI: 10.3390/nano10112179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Every year, millions of people develop scars due to skin injuries after trauma, surgery, or skin burns. From the beginning of wound healing development, scar hyperplasia, and prolonged healing time in wound healing have been severe problems. Based on the difference between adult and fetal wound healing processes, many promising therapies have been developed to decrease scar formation in skin wounds. Currently, there is no good or reliable therapy to cure or prevent scar formation. This work briefly reviews the engineering methods of scarless wound healing, focusing on regenerative biomaterials and different cytokines, growth factors, and extracellular components in regenerative wound healing to minimize skin damage cell types, and scar formation.
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Iacob AT, Drăgan M, Ionescu OM, Profire L, Ficai A, Andronescu E, Confederat LG, Lupașcu D. An Overview of Biopolymeric Electrospun Nanofibers Based on Polysaccharides for Wound Healing Management. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E983. [PMID: 33080849 PMCID: PMC7589858 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12100983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, despite the thoroughgoing scientific research carried out in the area of wound healing management, the treatment of skin injuries, regardless of etiology remains a big provocation for health care professionals. An optimal wound dressing should be nontoxic, non-adherent, non-allergenic, should also maintain a humid medium at the wound interfacing, and be easily removed without trauma. For the development of functional and bioactive dressings, they must meet different conditions such as: The ability to remove excess exudates, to allow gaseous interchange, to behave as a barrier to microbes and to external physical or chemical aggressions, and at the same time to have the capacity of promoting the process of healing by stimulating other intricate processes such as differentiation, cell adhesion, and proliferation. Over the past several years, various types of wound dressings including hydrogels, hydrocolloids, films, foams, sponges, and micro/nanofibers have been formulated, and among them, the electrospun nanofibrous mats received an increased interest from researchers due to the numerous advantages and their intrinsic properties. The drug-embedded nanofibers are the potential candidates for wound dressing application by virtue of: Superior surface area-to volume ratio, enormous porosity (can allow oxy-permeability) or reticular nano-porosity (can inhibit the microorganisms'adhesion), structural similitude to the skin extracellular matrix, and progressive electrospinning methodology, which promotes a prolonged drug release. The reason that we chose to review the formulation of electrospun nanofibers based on polysaccharides as dressings useful in wound healing was based on the ever-growing research in this field, research that highlighted many advantages of the nanofibrillary network, but also a marked versatility in terms of numerous active substances that can be incorporated for rapid and infection-free tissue regeneration. In this review, we have extensively discussed the recent advancements performed on electrospun nanofibers (eNFs) formulation methodology as wound dressings, and we focused as well on the entrapment of different active biomolecules that have been incorporated on polysaccharides-based nanofibers, highlighting those bioagents capable of improving the healing process. In addition, in vivo tests performed to support their increased efficacy were also listed, and the advantages of the polysaccharide nanofiber-based wound dressings compared to the traditional ones were emphasized.
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Motelica L, Ficai D, Ficai A, Oprea OC, Kaya DA, Andronescu E. Biodegradable Antimicrobial Food Packaging: Trends and Perspectives. Foods 2020; 9:E1438. [PMID: 33050581 PMCID: PMC7601795 DOI: 10.3390/foods9101438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This review presents a perspective on the research trends and solutions from recent years in the domain of antimicrobial packaging materials. The antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant activities can be induced by the main polymer used for packaging or by addition of various components from natural agents (bacteriocins, essential oils, natural extracts, etc.) to synthetic agents, both organic and inorganic (Ag, ZnO, TiO2 nanoparticles, synthetic antibiotics etc.). The general trend for the packaging evolution is from the inert and polluting plastic waste to the antimicrobial active, biodegradable or edible, biopolymer film packaging. Like in many domains this transition is an evolution rather than a revolution, and changes are coming in small steps. Changing the public perception and industry focus on the antimicrobial packaging solutions will enhance the shelf life and provide healthier food, thus diminishing the waste of agricultural resources, but will also reduce the plastic pollution generated by humankind as most new polymers used for packaging are from renewable sources and are biodegradable. Polysaccharides (like chitosan, cellulose and derivatives, starch etc.), lipids and proteins (from vegetal or animal origin), and some other specific biopolymers (like polylactic acid or polyvinyl alcohol) have been used as single component or in blends to obtain antimicrobial packaging materials. Where the package's antimicrobial and antioxidant activities need a larger spectrum or a boost, certain active substances are embedded, encapsulated, coated, grafted into or onto the polymeric film. This review tries to cover the latest updates on the antimicrobial packaging, edible or not, using as support traditional and new polymers, with emphasis on natural compounds.
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Popescu RC, Straticiuc M, Mustăciosu C, Temelie M, Trușcă R, Vasile BȘ, Boldeiu A, Mirea D, Andrei RF, Cenușă C, Mogoantă L, Mogoșanu GD, Andronescu E, Radu M, Veldwijk MR, Savu DI. Enhanced Internalization of Nanoparticles Following Ionizing Radiation Leads to Mitotic Catastrophe in MG-63 Human Osteosarcoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21197220. [PMID: 33007844 PMCID: PMC7583846 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to investigate whether ionizing radiation combined with doxorubicin-conjugated iron oxide nanoparticles (NP-DOX) improves the internalization and cytotoxic effects of the nano-carrier-mediated drug delivery in MG-63 human osteosarcoma cells. NP-DOX was designed and synthesized using the co-precipitation method. Highly stable and crystalline nanoparticles conjugated with DOX were internalized in MG-63 cells through macropinocytosis and located in the perinuclear area. Higher nanoparticles internalization in MG-63 cells previously exposed to 1 Gy X-rays was correlated with an early accumulation of cells in G2/M, starting at 12 h after treatment. After 48 h, the application of the combined treatment led to higher cytotoxic effects compared to the individual treatment, with a reduction in the metabolic capacity and unrepaired DNA breaks, whilst a low percent of arrested cells, contributing to the commitment of mitotic catastrophe. NP-DOX showed hemocompatibility and no systemic cytotoxicity, nor histopathological alteration of the main organs.
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Popescu RC, Savu D, Dorobantu I, Vasile BS, Hosser H, Boldeiu A, Temelie M, Straticiuc M, Iancu DA, Andronescu E, Wenz F, Giordano FA, Herskind C, Veldwijk MR. Efficient uptake and retention of iron oxide-based nanoparticles in HeLa cells leads to an effective intracellular delivery of doxorubicin. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10530. [PMID: 32601333 PMCID: PMC7324358 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67207-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to construct and characterize iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPCO) for intracellular delivery of the anthracycline doxorubicin (DOX; IONPDOX) in order to induce tumor cell inactivation. More than 80% of the loaded drug was released from IONPDOX within 24 h (100% at 70 h). Efficient internalization of IONPDOX and IONPCO in HeLa cells occurred through pino- and endocytosis, with both IONP accumulating in a perinuclear pattern. IONPCO were biocompatible with maximum 27.9% ± 6.1% reduction in proliferation 96 h after treatment with up to 200 µg/mL IONPCO. Treatment with IONPDOX resulted in a concentration- and time-dependent decrease in cell proliferation (IC50 = 27.5 ± 12.0 μg/mL after 96 h) and a reduced clonogenic survival (surviving fraction, SF = 0.56 ± 0.14; versus IONPCO (SF = 1.07 ± 0.38)). Both IONP constructs were efficiently internalized and retained in the cells, and IONPDOX efficiently delivered DOX resulting in increased cell death vs IONPCO.
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Croitoru AM, Ficai D, Ficai A, Mihailescu N, Andronescu E, Turculet CF. Nanostructured Fibers Containing Natural or Synthetic Bioactive Compounds in Wound Dressing Applications. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 13:E2407. [PMID: 32456196 PMCID: PMC7287851 DOI: 10.3390/ma13102407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The interest in wound healing characteristics of bioactive constituents and therapeutic agents, especially natural compounds, is increasing because of their therapeutic properties, cost-effectiveness, and few adverse effects. Lately, nanocarriers as a drug delivery system have been actively investigated and applied in medical and therapeutic applications. In recent decades, researchers have investigated the incorporation of natural or synthetic substances into novel bioactive electrospun nanofibrous architectures produced by the electrospinning method for skin substitutes. Therefore, the development of nanotechnology in the area of dressings that could provide higher performance and a synergistic effect for wound healing is needed. Natural compounds with antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activity in combination with nanostructured fibers represent a future approach due to the increased wound healing process and regeneration of the lost tissue. This paper presents different approaches in producing electrospun nanofibers, highlighting the electrospinning process used in fabricating innovative wound dressings that are able to release natural and/or synthetic substances in a controlled way, thus enhancing the healing process.
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Beshchasna N, Saqib M, Kraskiewicz H, Wasyluk Ł, Kuzmin O, Duta OC, Ficai D, Ghizdavet Z, Marin A, Ficai A, Sun Z, Pichugin VF, Opitz J, Andronescu E. Recent Advances in Manufacturing Innovative Stents. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E349. [PMID: 32294908 PMCID: PMC7238261 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12040349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are the most distributed cause of death worldwide. Stenting of arteries as a percutaneous transluminal angioplasty procedure became a promising minimally invasive therapy based on re-opening narrowed arteries by stent insertion. In order to improve and optimize this method, many research groups are focusing on designing new or improving existent stents. Since the beginning of the stent development in 1986, starting with bare-metal stents (BMS), these devices have been continuously enhanced by applying new materials, developing stent coatings based on inorganic and organic compounds including drugs, nanoparticles or biological components such as genes and cells, as well as adapting stent designs with different fabrication technologies. Drug eluting stents (DES) have been developed to overcome the main shortcomings of BMS or coated stents. Coatings are mainly applied to control biocompatibility, degradation rate, protein adsorption, and allow adequate endothelialization in order to ensure better clinical outcome of BMS, reducing restenosis and thrombosis. As coating materials (i) organic polymers: polyurethanes, poly(ε-caprolactone), styrene-b-isobutylene-b-styrene, polyhydroxybutyrates, poly(lactide-co-glycolide), and phosphoryl choline; (ii) biological components: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and anti-CD34 antibody and (iii) inorganic coatings: noble metals, wide class of oxides, nitrides, silicide and carbide, hydroxyapatite, diamond-like carbon, and others are used. DES were developed to reduce the tissue hyperplasia and in-stent restenosis utilizing antiproliferative substances like paclitaxel, limus (siro-, zotaro-, evero-, bio-, amphi-, tacro-limus), ABT-578, tyrphostin AGL-2043, genes, etc. The innovative solutions aim at overcoming the main limitations of the stent technology, such as in-stent restenosis and stent thrombosis, while maintaining the prime requirements on biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical behavior. This paper provides an overview of the existing stent types, their functionality, materials, and manufacturing conditions demonstrating the still huge potential for the development of promising stent solutions.
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Duta OC, Ţîţu AM, Marin A, Ficai A, Ficai D, Andronescu E. Surface Modification of Poly(Vinylchloride) for Manufacturing Advanced Catheters. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:1616-1633. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666200227152150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Polymeric materials, due to their excellent physicochemical properties and versatility found
applicability in multiples areas, including biomaterials used in tissue regeneration, prosthetics (hip,
artificial valves), medical devices, controlled drug delivery systems, etc. Medical devices and their
applications are very important in modern medicine and the need to develop new materials with improved
properties or to improve the existent materials is increasing every day. Numerous reasearches
are activated in this domain in order to obtain materials/surfaces that does not have drawbacks such as
structural failure, calcifications, infections or thrombosis. One of the most used material is
poly(vinylchloride) (PVC) due to its unique properties, availability and low cost. The most common
method used for obtaining tubular devices that meet the requirements of medical use is the surface
modification of polymers without changing their physical and mechanical properties, in bulk. PVC is a
hydrophobic polymer and therefore many research studies were conducted in order to increase the hydrophilicity
of the surface by chemical modification in order to improve biocompatibility, to enhance
wettability, reduce friction or to make lubricious or antimicrobial coatings. Surface modification of
PVC can be achieved by several strategies, in only one step or, in some cases, in two or more steps by
applying several techniques consecutively to obtain the desired modification / performances. The most
common processes used for modifying the surface of PVC devices are: plasma treatment, corona discharge,
chemical grafting, electric discharge, vapour deposition of metals, flame treatment, direct
chemical modification (oxidation, hydrolysis, etc.) or even some physical modification of the roughness
of the surface.
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Ene VL, Neacsu IA, Oprea O, Surdu VA, Trusca RD, Ficai A, Andronescu E. Single Step Synthesis of Glutamic/tartaric Acid-stabilised Fe3O4 Nanoparticles for Targeted Delivery Systems. REVISTA DE CHIMIE 2020. [DOI: 10.37358/rc.20.2.7920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This paper aims to improve medical strategies regarding cancer treatment, by developing new targeted cancer therapy nanostructured systems, based on magnetite and natural catabolism products as coating agents (glutamic acid, tartaric acid), with induced cellular internalization. In order to create hydrophilic, biocompatible systems, suitable for targeted cancer therapy, and minimize the negative side effects of current approaches, a one-pot synthesis by co-precipitation technique, starting from Fe2+ and Fe3+ inorganic precursors and multifunctional organic compounds, carefully controlling the reaction parameters (concentration of precursors, pH, temperature etc.) was performed. The obtained Fe3O4 stabilised nanoparticles were subjected to morphological and structural characterization. The formation of inorganic-organic hybrid systems was evaluated using FTIR spectroscopy and complex thermal analysis (TG / DSC) for determining the content of the organic component, while X-ray Diffractometry and Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy were used to characterize the crystallinity and particle dimensions and distribution. The magnetic properties at room temperature were also evaluated, recording the magnetic susceptibility relative to the applied magnetic field.
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Croitoru A, Ficai D, Craciun L, Ficai A, Andronescu E. Evaluation and Exploitation of Bioactive Compounds of Walnut, Juglans regia. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:119-131. [PMID: 30931854 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190329150825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In the last few years, great importance has been given to natural materials (such as walnuts, peanuts, chestnuts) due to their medicinal and pharmaceutical uses induced by the presence of natural agents, including polyphenols. Juglans regia is a traditional plant that has been used since ancient times in traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases like microbial infections, stomach ache, thyroid dysfunctions, cancer, heart diseases and sinusitis. Recently, scientific attention for the phytochemical profile of walnut by-products is increasing due to their valuable active constituents. Natural polyphenols are important compounds present in walnut with valuable properties that have been studied for the treatment of inflammation, cancer or anti-ageing effect. The use of nanocarriers as a drug delivery system is now a promising strategy to get more stable products and is easier to apply in a medical, therapeutic and pharmaceutical environment. The aim of this work was to review the latest information provided by scientific investigators regarding the nutritional value, bioactive compounds, antioxidant and antitumor activity of walnut by-product extracts. Moreover, this review provides comprehensive information on the nanoencapsulation of bioactive constituents for application in clinical medicine, particularly in cancer research.
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Fundueanu G, Constantin M, Bucatariu S, Nicolescu A, Ascenzi P, Moise LG, Tudor L, Trusca VG, Gafencu AV, Ficai D, Ficai A, Andronescu E. Simple and dual cross-linked chitosan millicapsules as a particulate support for cell culture. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 143:200-212. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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69
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Popescu RC, Andronescu E, Vasile BS. Recent Advances in Magnetite Nanoparticle Functionalization for Nanomedicine. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 9:E1791. [PMID: 31888236 PMCID: PMC6956201 DOI: 10.3390/nano9121791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Functionalization of nanomaterials can enhance and modulate their properties and behaviour, enabling characteristics suitable for medical applications. Magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles are one of the most popular types of nanomaterials used in this field, and many technologies being already translated in clinical practice. This article makes a summary of the surface modification and functionalization approaches presented lately in the scientific literature for improving or modulating magnetite nanoparticles for their applications in nanomedicine.
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70
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Ardelean IL, Ficai D, Sonmez M, Oprea O, Nechifor G, Andronescu E, Ficai A, Titu MA. Hybrid Magnetic Nanostructures For Cancer Diagnosis And Therapy. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2019; 19:6-16. [PMID: 30411694 DOI: 10.2174/1871520618666181109112655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is the second disease in the world from the point of view of mortality. The conventional routes of treatment were found to be not sufficient and thus alternative ways are imposed. The use of hybrid, magnetic nanostructures is a promising way for simultaneous targeted diagnosis and treatment of various types of cancer. For this reason, the development of core@shell structures was found to be an efficient way to develop stable, biocompatible, non-toxic carriers with shell-dependent internalization capacity in cancer cells. So, the multicomponent approach can be the most suitable way to assure the multifunctionality of these nanostructures to achieve the desired/necessary properties. The in vivo stability is mostly assured by the coating of the magnetic core with various polymers (including polyethylene glycol, silica etc.), while the targeting capacity is mostly assured by the decoration of these nanostructures with folic acid. Unfortunately, there are also some limitations related to the multilayered approach. For instance, the increasing of the thickness of layers leads to a decrease the magnetic properties, (hyperthermia and guiding ability in the magnetic field, for instance), the outer shell should contain the targeting molecules (as well as the agents helping the internalization into the cancer cells), etc.
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71
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Lungu II, Grumezescu AM, Volceanov A, Andronescu E. Nanobiomaterials Used in Cancer Therapy: An Up-To-Date Overview. Molecules 2019; 24:E3547. [PMID: 31574993 PMCID: PMC6804091 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24193547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The disadvantages that come with traditional cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, generated a research shift toward nanotechnology. However, even with the important advancements regarding cancer therapy, there are still serious stepping stones that need to be addressed. The use of both nanotechnology and nanomedicine has generated significant improvements in nano-sized materials development and their use as therapeutic, diagnosis, and imaging agents. The biological barriers that come from the healthy body, as well from the tumorous sites, are important parameters that need to be taken into consideration when designing drug delivery systems. There are several aspects of extreme importance such as the tumor microenvironment and vasculature, the reticuloendothelial system, the blood-brain barrier, the blood-tumor barrier, and the renal system. In order to achieve an effective system for cancer therapy, several characteristics of the nanoparticles have been outlined. Moreover, this review has also focused on the different types of nanoparticles that have been studied over the years as potential candidates for cancer therapy.
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72
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Tanasa E, Zaharia C, Radu IC, Surdu VA, Vasile BS, Damian CM, Andronescu E. Novel Nanocomposites Based on Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles and Polyacrylamide: Preparation and Complex Characterization. NANOMATERIALS 2019; 9:nano9101384. [PMID: 31569674 PMCID: PMC6835864 DOI: 10.3390/nano9101384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports the synthesis and complex characterization of nanocomposite hydrogels based on polyacrylamide and functionalized magnetite nanoparticles. Magnetic nanoparticles were functionalized with double bonds by 3-trimethoxysilyl propyl methacrylate. Nanocomposite hydrogels were prepared by radical polymerization of acrylamide monomer and double bond modified magnetite nanoparticles. XPS spectra for magnetite and modified magnetite were recorded to evaluate the covalent bonding of silane modifying agent. Swelling measurements in saline solution were performed to evaluate the behavior of these hydrogels having various compositions. Mechanical properties were evaluated by dynamic rheological analysis for elastic modulus and vibrating sample magnetometry was used to investigate the magnetic properties. Morphology, geometrical evaluation (size and shape) of nanostructural characteristics and the crystalline structure of the samples were investigated by SEM, HR-TEM and selected area electron diffraction (SAED). The nanocomposite hydrogels will be further tested for the soft tissue engineering field as repairing scaffolds, due to their mechanical and magnetization behavior that can stimulate tissue regeneration.
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Popescu R, Savu D, Dorobantu I, Vasile B, Hosser H, Schneider F, Boldeiu A, Andronescu E, Wenz F, Giordano F, Herskind C, Veldwijk M. Radiosensitization of Tumor Cells by Intracellular Delivery of Doxorubicin Using Novel Iron Oxide-based Nanoconstructs. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2019.06.1003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Andronescu E, Predoi D, Neacsu IA, Paduraru AV, Musuc AM, Trusca R, Oprea O, Tanasa E, Vasile OR, Nicoara AI, Surdu AV, Iordache F, Birca AC, Iconaru SL, Vasile BS. Photoluminescent Hydroxylapatite: Eu 3+ Doping Effect on Biological Behaviour. NANOMATERIALS 2019; 9:nano9091187. [PMID: 31443424 PMCID: PMC6780766 DOI: 10.3390/nano9091187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Luminescent europium-doped hydroxylapatite (EuXHAp) nanomaterials were successfully obtained by co-precipitation method at low temperature. The morphological, structural and optical properties were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR), UV-Vis and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of EuXHAp were also evaluated using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide)) assay, oxidative stress assessment and fluorescent microscopy. The results reveal that the Eu3+ has successfully doped the hexagonal lattice of hydroxylapatite. By enhancing the optical features, these EuXHAp materials demonstrated superior efficiency to become fluorescent labelling materials for bioimaging applications.
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Grumezescu AM, Stoica AE, Dima-Bălcescu MȘ, Chircov C, Gharbia S, Baltă C, Roșu M, Herman H, Holban AM, Ficai A, Vasile BS, Andronescu E, Chifiriuc MC, Hermenean A. Electrospun Polyethylene Terephthalate Nanofibers Loaded with Silver Nanoparticles: Novel Approach in Anti-Infective Therapy. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E1039. [PMID: 31315266 PMCID: PMC6679131 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8071039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a major pollutant polymer, due to its wide use in food packaging and fiber production industries worldwide. Currently, there is great interest for recycling the huge amount of PET-based materials, derived especially from the food and textile industries. In this study, we applied the electrospinning technique to obtain nanostructured fibrillary membranes based on PET materials. Subsequently, the recycled PET networks were decorated with silver nanoparticles through the chemical reduction method for antimicrobial applications. After the characterization of the materials in terms of crystallinity, chemical bonding, and morphology, the effect against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungal strains, was investigated. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility tests were performed in order to open up potential biomedical applications, such as wound dressings or implant coatings. Silver-decorated fibers showed lower cytotoxicity and inflammatory effects and increased antibiofilm activity, thus highlighting the potential of these systems for antimicrobial purposes.
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