Hybrid nanoparticles for detection and treatment of cancer

Deciphering the Lipid-Random Copolymer Interactions and Encoding Their Properties to Design a Hybrid System

Lipid/copolymer colloidal systems are deemed hybrid materials with unique properties and functionalities. Their hybrid nature leads to complex interfacial phenomena, which have not been fully encoded yet, navigating their properties. Moving toward in-depth knowledge of such systems, a comprehensive investigation of them is imperative. In the present study, hybrid lipid/copolymer structures were fabricated and examined by a gamut of techniques, including dynamic light scattering, fluorescence spectroscopy, cryogenic transmission electron microscopy, microcalorimetry, and high-resolution ultrasound spectroscopy. The biomaterials that were mixed for this purpose at different ratios were 1,2-dioctadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and four different linear, statistical (random) amphiphilic copolymers, consisting of oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate as the hydrophilic comonomer and lauryl methacrylate as the hydrophobic one. The colloidal dispersions were studied for lipid/copolymer interactions regarding their physicochemical, morphological, and biophysical behavior. Their membrane properties and interactions with serum proteins were also studied. The aforementioned techniques confirmed the hybrid nature of the systems and the location of the copolymer in the structure. More importantly, the random architecture of the copolymers, the hydrophobic-to-hydrophilic balance of the nanoplatforms, and the lipid-to-polymer ratio are highlighted as the main design-influencing factors. Elucidating the lipid/copolymer interactions would contribute to the translation of hybrid nanoparticle performance and, thus, their rational design for multiple applications, including drug delivery.

Putting Hybrid Nanomaterials to Work for Biomedical Applications

Hybrid nanomaterials have found use in many biomedical applications. This article provides a comprehensive review of the principles, techniques, and recent advancements in the design and fabrication of hybrid nanomaterials for biomedicine. We begin with an introduction to the general concept of material hybridization, followed by a discussion of how this approach leads to materials with additional functionality and enhanced performance. We then highlight hybrid nanomaterials in the forms of nanostructures, nanocomposites, metal-organic frameworks, and biohybrids, including their fabrication methods. We also showcase the use of hybrid nanomaterials to advance biomedical engineering in the context of nanomedicine, regenerative medicine, diagnostics, theranostics, and biomanufacturing. Finally, we offer perspectives on challenges and opportunities.

Targeting ferroptosis for leukemia therapy: exploring novel strategies from its mechanisms and role in leukemia based on nanotechnology

The latest findings in iron metabolism and the newly uncovered process of ferroptosis have paved the way for new potential strategies in anti-leukemia treatments. In the current project, we reviewed and summarized the current role of nanomedicine in the treatment and diagnosis of leukemia through a comparison made between traditional approaches applied in the treatment and diagnosis of leukemia via the existing investigations about the ferroptosis molecular mechanisms involved in various anti-tumor treatments. The application of nanotechnology and other novel technologies may provide a new direction in ferroptosis-driven leukemia therapies. The article explores the potential of targeting ferroptosis, a new form of regulated cell death, as a new therapeutic strategy for leukemia. It discusses the mechanisms of ferroptosis and its role in leukemia and how nanotechnology can enhance the delivery and efficacy of ferroptosis-inducing agents. The article not only highlights the promise of ferroptosis-targeted therapies and nanotechnology in revolutionizing leukemia treatment, but also calls for further research to overcome challenges and fully realize the clinical potential of this innovative approach. Finally, it discusses the challenges and opportunities in clinical applications of ferroptosis.

Exploring the current landscape of chitosan-based hybrid nanoplatforms as cancer theragnostic

In the last decade, investigators have put significant efforts to develop several diagnostic and therapeutic strategies against cancer. Many novel nanoplatforms, including lipidic, metallic, and inorganic nanocarriers, have shown massive potential at preclinical and clinical stages for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Each of these nano-systems is distinct with its own benefits and limitations. The need to overcome the limitations of single-component nano-systems, improve their morphological and biological features, and achieve multiple functionalities has resulted in the emergence of hybrid nanoparticles (HNPs). These HNPs integrate multicomponent nano-systems with diagnostic and therapeutic functions into a single nano-system serving as promising nanotools for cancer theragnostic applications. Chitosan (CS) being a mucoadhesive, biodegradable, and biocompatible biopolymer, has emerged as an essential element for the development of HNPs offering several advantages over conventional nanoparticles including pH-dependent drug delivery, sustained drug release, and enhanced nanoparticle stability. In addition, the free protonable amino groups in the CS backbone offer flexibility to its structure, making it easy for the modification and functionalization of CS, resulting in better drug targetability and cell uptake. This review discusses in detail the existing different oncology-directed CS-based HNPs including their morphological characteristics, in-vitro/in-vivo outcomes, toxicity concerns, hurdles in clinical translation, and future prospects.

Structure-Based Evaluation of Hybrid Lipid-Polymer Nanoparticles: The Role of the Polymeric Guest

The combination of phospholipids and block-copolymers yields advanced hybrid nanoparticles through the self-assembly process in an aqueous environment. The physicochemical features of the lipid/polymer components, like the lipid-polymer molar ratio, the macromolecular architecture of the block copolymer, the main transition temperature of the phospholipid, as well as the formulation and preparation protocol parameters, are some of the most crucial parameters for the formation of hybrid lipid/polymer vesicles and for the differentiation of their morphology. The morphology, along with other physicochemical nanoparticle characteristics are strictly correlated with the nanoparticle's later biological behavior after being administered, affecting interactions with cells, biodistribution, uptake, toxicity, drug release, etc. In the present study, a structural evaluation of hybrid lipid-polymer nanoparticles based on cryo-TEM studies was undertaken. Different kinds of hybrid lipid-polymer nanoparticles were designed and developed using phospholipids and block copolymers with different preparation protocols. The structures obtained ranged from spherical vesicles to rod-shaped structures, worm-like micelles, and irregular morphologies. The obtained morphologies were correlated with the formulation and preparation parameters and especially the type of lipid, the polymeric guest, and their ratio.

Emerging nanotechnology backed formulations for the management of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a prevalent chronic skin inflammation affecting 2.1 to 4.1% of adults globally. The complexity of its pathogenesis and the relapsing nature make it challenging to treat. Current treatments follow European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology guidelines, but advanced cases with recurring lesions lack effective therapies. To address this gap, researchers are exploring nanotechnology for targeted drug delivery. Nanoparticles offer benefits such as improved drug retention, stability, controlled release and targeted delivery through the disrupted epidermal barrier. This integrated review evaluates the current state of AD treatment and highlights the potential of novel nano-formulations as a promising approach to address the disease.

Polysaccharides-based nanocarriers enhance the anti-inflammatory effect of curcumin

Curcumin (CUR) has been discovered to have many biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-oxygenation, anti-human immunodeficiency virus, anti-microbial and exhibits a good effect on the prevention and treatment of many diseases. However, the limited properties of CUR, including the poor solubility, bioavailability and instability caused by enzymes, light, metal irons, and oxygen, have compelled researchers to turn their attention to drug carrier application to overcome these drawbacks. Encapsulation may provide potential protective effects to the embedding materials and/or have a synergistic effect with them. Therefore, nanocarriers, especially polysaccharides-based nanocarriers, have been developed in many studies to enhance the anti-inflammatory capacity of CUR. Consequently, it's critical to review current advancements in the encapsulation of CUR using polysaccharides-based nanocarriers, as well as further study the potential mechanisms of action where polysaccharides-based CUR nanoparticles (the complex nanoparticles/Nano CUR-delivery systems) exhibit their anti-inflammatory effects. This work suggests that polysaccharides-based nanocarriers will be a thriving field in the treatment of inflammation and inflammation-related diseases.

Smart Nanocarriers for the Targeted Delivery of Therapeutic Nucleic Acid for Cancer Immunotherapy

A wide variety of therapeutic approaches and technologies for delivering therapeutic agents have been investigated for treating cancer. Recently, immunotherapy has achieved success in cancer treatment. Successful clinical results of immunotherapeutic approaches for cancer treatment were led by antibodies targeting immune checkpoints, and many have advanced through clinical trials and obtained FDA approval. A major opportunity remains for the development of nucleic acid technology for cancer immunotherapy in the form of cancer vaccines, adoptive T-cell therapies, and gene regulation. However, these therapeutic approaches face many challenges related to their delivery to target cells, including their in vivo decay, the limited uptake by target cells, the requirements for nuclear penetration (in some cases), and the damage caused to healthy cells. These barriers can be avoided and resolved by utilizing advanced smart nanocarriers (e.g., lipids, polymers, spherical nucleic acids, metallic nanoparticles) that enable the efficient and selective delivery of nucleic acids to the target cells and/or tissues. Here, we review studies that have developed nanoparticle-mediated cancer immunotherapy as a technology for cancer patients. Moreover, we also investigate the crosstalk between the function of nucleic acid therapeutics in cancer immunotherapy, and we discuss how nanoparticles can be functionalized and designed to target the delivery and thus improve the efficacy, toxicity, and stability of these therapeutics.

Development of Hybrid DSPC:DOPC:P(OEGMA950-DIPAEMA) Nanostructures: The Random Architecture of Polymeric Guest as a Key Design Parameter

Hybrid nanoparticles have gained a lot of attention due to their advantageous properties and versatility in pharmaceutical applications. In this perspective, the formation of novel systems and the exploration of their characteristics not only from a physicochemical but also from a biophysical perspective could promote the development of new nanoplatforms with well-defined features. In the current work, lipid/copolymer bilayers were formed in different lipid to copolymer ratios and examined via differential scanning calorimetry as a preformulation study to decipher the interactions between the biomaterials, followed by nanostructure preparation by the thin-film hydration method. Physicochemical and toxicological evaluations were conducted utilizing light scattering techniques, fluorescence spectroscopy, and MTS assay. 1,2-dioctadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DSPC) and 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC) in different weight ratios were the chosen lipids, while a linear random copolymer with pH- and thermoresponsive properties comprised of oligo (ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (OEGMA) and 2-(diisopropylamino) ethyl methacrylate (DIPAEMA) in different ratios was used. According to our results, non-toxic hybrid nanosystems with stimuli-responsive properties were successfully formulated, and the main parameters influencing their overall performance were the hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance, lipid to polymer ratio, and more importantly the random copolymer topology. Hopefully, this investigation can promote a better understanding of the factors affecting the behavior of hybrid systems.

Photoexcited Plasmon-Driven Ultrafast Dynamics of the Adsorbate Probed by Femtosecond Time-Resolved Surface-Enhanced Time-Domain Raman Spectroscopy

Metal nanoparticles have high potential in light-harvesting applications by transferring absorbed photon energy to the adsorbates. However, photoexcited plasmon-driven ultrafast dynamics of the adsorbate on metal nanoparticles have not been clearly understood. We studied ultrafast plasmon-driven processes of trans-1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethylene (BPE) adsorbed on gold nanoparticle assemblies (GNAs) using time-resolved surface-enhanced impulsive stimulated Raman spectroscopy (TR-SE-ISRS). After photoexciting the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) band of the GNAs, we measured femtosecond time-resolved surface-enhanced Raman spectra of the adsorbate, which exhibited transient bleach in the Raman signal and following biphasic recovery that proceeds on the time scale of a few tens of picoseconds. The TR-SE-ISRS data were analyzed with singular value decomposition, and the obtained species-associated Raman spectra indicated that photoexcitation of the LSPR band alters chemical interaction between BPE and the GNAs on an ultrafast time scale; initial steady-state BPE is recovered through a precursor state that has weaker interaction with the GNAs.

Exploiting Nanomedicine for Cancer Polychemotherapy: Recent Advances and Clinical Applications

The most important limitations of chemotherapeutic agents are severe side effects and the development of multi-drug resistance. Recently, the clinical successes achieved with immunotherapy have revolutionized the treatment of several advanced-stage malignancies, but most patients do not respond and many of them develop immune-related adverse events. Loading synergistic combinations of different anti-tumor drugs in nanocarriers may enhance their efficacy and reduce life-threatening toxicities. Thereafter, nanomedicines may synergize with pharmacological, immunological, and physical combined treatments, and should be increasingly integrated in multimodal combination therapy regimens. The goal of this manuscript is to provide better understanding and key considerations for developing new combined nanomedicines and nanotheranostics. We will clarify the potential of combined nanomedicine strategies that are designed to target different steps of the cancer growth as well as its microenvironment and immunity interactions. Moreover, we will describe relevant experiments in animal models and discuss issues raised by translation in the human setting.

Multifunctional hybrid nanoparticles in diagnosis and therapy of breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most prevalent non-cutaneous malignancy in women, with greater than a million new cases every year. In the last decennium, numerous diagnostic and treatment approaches have been enormously studied for Breast cancer. Among the different approaches, nanotechnology has appeared as a promising approach in preclinical and clinical studies for early diagnosis of primary tumors and metastases and eradicating tumor cells. Each of these nanocarriers has its particular advantages and drawbacks. Combining two or more than two constituents in a single nanocarrier system leads to the generation of novel multifunctional Hybrid Nanocarriers with improved structural and biological properties. These novel Hybrid Nanocarriers have the capability to overcome the drawbacks of individual constituents while having the advantages of those components. Various hybrid nanocarriers such as lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles, inorganic hybrid nanoparticles, metal-organic hybrid nanoparticles, and hybrid carbon nanocarriers are utilized for the diagnosis and treatment of various cancers. Certainly, Hybrid Nanocarriers have the capability to encapsulate multiple cargos, targeting agents, enhancement in encapsulation, stability, circulation time, and structural disintegration compared to non-hybrid nanocarriers. Many studies have been conducted to investigate the utilization of Hybrid nanocarriers in breast cancer for imaging platforms, photothermal and photodynamic therapy, chemotherapy, gene therapy, and combinational therapy. In this review, we mainly discussed in detailed about of preparation techniques and toxicological considerations of hybrid nanoparticles. This review also discussed the role of hybrid nanocarriers as a diagnostic and therapeutic agent for the treatment of breast cancer along with alternative treatment approaches apart from chemotherapy including photothermal and photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and combinational therapy.

Synthesis and optimization of photothermal properties of NIR emitting LiGa5O8: Cr3+ and gold nanorods as hybrid materials for theranostic applications

The increase in incidence of degenerative diseases has fueled the development of novel materials, mostly focused on reducing adverse effects caused by current medical therapies. Theranostic materials represent an alternative to treat degenerative diseases, since they combine diagnostic properties and localized therapy within the same material. This work presents the synthesis and characterization of hybrid materials designed for theranostic purposes. The hybrid materials were composed of LiGa₅O₈:Cr³⁺ (LGO) with emission lines in the near infrared (NIR), hence providing an excellent diagnostic ability. As for the therapy part, the hybrid nanomaterials contained gold nanorods (AuR) with localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). Once AuR are excited, plasmonic processes are triggered at their surface resulting in increased localized temperature capable of inducing irreversible damage to the cells. A detailed characterization of the hybrid materials confirmed proper assembly of LGO and AuR. Moreover, these nanocomposites preserved their luminescent properties and LSPR. Finally, the cytotoxic potential of the hybrid material was evaluated in different cell lines by cell viability colorimetric assays to determine its possible use as theranostic agent. The success in the synthesis of hybrid materials based on LGO with emission in the NIR coupled with AuR, provides a new perspective for the design of hybrid materials with improved properties to be used in biomedical fields.

Recent advances in NIR-II fluorescence based theranostic approaches for glioma

Gliomas are among the most common malignant tumors in the central nervous system and lead to poor life expectancy. However, the effective treatment of gliomas remains a considerable challenge. The recent development of near infrared (NIR) II (1000-1700 nm) theranostic agents has led to powerful strategies in diagnosis, targeted delivery of drugs, and accurate therapy. Because of the high capacity of NIR-II light in deep tissue penetration, improved spatiotemporal resolution can be achieved to facilitate the in vivo detection of gliomas via fluorescence imaging, and high contrast fluorescence imaging guided surgery can be realized. In addition to the precise imaging of tumors, drug delivery nano-platforms with NIR-II agents also allow the delivery process to be monitored in real-time. In addition, the combination of targeted drug delivery, photodynamic therapy, and photothermal therapy in the NIR region significantly improves the therapeutic effect against gliomas. Thus, this mini-review summarizes the recent developments in NIR-II fluorescence-based theranostic agents for glioma treatment.

Novel combination of multi-walled carbon nanotubes and gold nanocomposite for photothermal therapy in human breast cancer model

Despite current medical advancements, the resistance of malignant tumours to conventional medical therapies highlights the need for innovative therapeutic techniques. Numerous studies have focused on the promising application of nanomaterials in recent years. Nanoparticles (NPs) are used to treat cancer. Plasmonic photothermal therapy (PPTT) is a cancer-ablation technique in which photon energy is rapidly converted into heat by some radiative and non-radiative events. Gold NPs (Au-NPs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are plasmonic NPs with excellent thermal conductivity and their near-infrared (NIR) absorbance has several interesting qualities. Additionally, CNTs could penetrate cells. In this study, Au-NPs were used to fabricate multi-walled CNTs (MWCNTs), which could boost its efficacy in cancer treatment in accordance with PPTT. Transmission electron microscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), atomic force microscopy and FTIR were used to examine the MWCNTs made from walnut shell. Au-NPs were explored using green chemistry and MWCNT-COOAu, MWCNT-COO and MWCNT-Au were examined by Raman, EDX and FESEM techniques. The effect of MWCNT-COOAu, MWCNT-COO and MWCNT-Au at various concentrations (3.12, 6.25, 12.5 and 25 µg/mL) and irradiation time intervals (30, 60, 90 and 120 sec) by using NIR laser under λ = 1064 nm and P = 3 W on the breast cancer cell line (MCF7) was investigated. The highest temperatures for MWCNT-COO, MWCNT-COOAu and MWCNT-Au were determined to be 44.1 °C, 46 °C and 46.9 °C, respectively, which produced 61.66 %, 72 % and 85.3 % cytotoxicity, respectively, in MCF7 cell line at a concentration of 25 µg/mL and an irradiation period of 120 sec. The treatment of MCF7 cell line by photothermal therapy was found to be in a concentration- and time-dependent manner.

Sustained Drug Release from Smart Nanoparticles in Cancer Therapy: A Comprehensive Review

Although nanomedicine has been highly investigated for cancer treatment over the past decades, only a few nanomedicines are currently approved and in the market; making this field poorly represented in clinical applications. Key research gaps that require optimization to successfully translate the use of nanomedicines have been identified, but not addressed; among these, the lack of control of the release pattern of therapeutics is the most important. To solve these issues with currently used nanomedicines (e.g., burst release, systemic release), different strategies for the design and manufacturing of nanomedicines allowing for better control over the therapeutic release, are currently being investigated. The inclusion of stimuli-responsive properties and prolonged drug release have been identified as effective approaches to include in nanomedicine, and are discussed in this paper. Recently, smart sustained release nanoparticles have been successfully designed to safely and efficiently deliver therapeutics with different kinetic profiles, making them promising for many drug delivery applications and in specific for cancer treatment. In this review, the state-of-the-art of smart sustained release nanoparticles is discussed, focusing on the design strategies and performances of polymeric nanotechnologies. A complete list of nanomedicines currently tested in clinical trials and approved nanomedicines for cancer treatment is presented, critically discussing advantages and limitations with respect to the newly developed nanotechnologies and manufacturing methods. By the presented discussion and the highlight of nanomedicine design criteria and current limitations, this review paper could be of high interest to identify key features for the design of release-controlled nanomedicine for cancer treatment.

Amalgamation of Nanoparticles within Drug Carriers: A Synergistic Approach or a Futile Attempt?

In recent years, nanotechnology has gained much attention from scientists and significant advances in therapeutic potential. Nano-delivery systems have emerged as an effective way in order to improve the therapeutic properties of drugs including solubility, stability, prolongation of half-life as well as promoting the accumulation of drug at the target site. The nanoparticles have also been incorporated into various conventional drug delivery systems. This review study aims to introduce the amalgamation of nanoparticles into drug carriers. To overcome the limitations of single nanoparticles such as toxicity, high instability, rapid drug release as well as limited drug loading capacity, a multi-component system is developed. Liposomes, microparticles, nanofibers, dendrimers etc., are promising drug carriers, having some limitations that can be minimized, and the compilation of nanoparticles synergizes the properties. The amalgamated nanocarriers are used for the diagnostic purpose as well as treatment of various chronic diseases. It also increases the solubility of hydrophobic drugs. However, each system has its advantages and disadvantages based on its physicochemical properties, efficacy, and other parameters. This review details the past and present state of development for the fusion of nanoparticles within drug carriers and from which we identify future research works needed for the same.

Synthesis of doxorubicin-loaded peptosomes hybridized with gold nanorod for targeted drug delivery and CT imaging of metastatic breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Cancer nanomedicines based on synthetic polypeptides have attracted much attention due to their superior biocompatibility and biodegradability, stimuli responsive capability through secondary conformation change, adjustable functionalities for various cargos such as peptides, proteins, nucleic acids and small therapeutic molecules. Recently, a few nanoformulations based on polypeptides comprising NK105, NC6004, NK911, CT2103, have entered phase I-III clinical trials for advanced solid tumors therapy. In the current study, we prepared polypeptide-based vesicles called peptosome via self-assembly of amphiphilic polypeptide-based PEG-PBLG diblock copolymer.

RESULTS

In this regard, poly(γ-benzyl L-glutamate (PBLG) was synthesized via ring opening polymerization (ROP) of γ-benzyl L-glutamate-N-carboxyanhydride (BLG-NCA) using N-hexylamine as initiator. Then amine-terminated PBLG was covalently conjugated to heterofuctional maleimide PEG-carboxylic acid or methyl-PEG-carboxylic acid. The PEG-PBLG peptosomes were prepared through double emulsion method for the co-delivery of doxorubicin.HCl and gold nanorods as hydrophilic and hydrophobic agents in interior compartment and membrane of peptosomes, respectively (Pep@MUA.GNR-DOX) that DOX encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity were determined 42 ± 3.6 and 1.68 ± 3.6. Then, theranostic peptosomes were decorated with thiol-functionalized EpCAM aptamer throught thiol-maleimide reaction producing Apt-Pep@MUA.GNR-DOX for targeted delivery. The non-targeted and targeted peptosomes showed 165.5 ± 1.1 and 185 ± 4.7 nm diameters, respectively while providing sustained, controlled release of DOX. Furthermore, non-targeted and targeted peptosomes showed considerable serum stability. In vitro study on MCF-7 and 4T1 cells showed significantly higher cytotoxicity for Apt-Pep@MUA.GNR-DOX in comparison with Pep@MUA.GNR-DOX while both system did not show any difference in cytotoxicity against CHO cell line. Furthermore, Apt-Pep@MUA.GNR-DOX illustrated higher cellular uptake toward EpCAM-overexpressing 4T1 cells compared to Pep@MUA.GNR-DOX. In preclinical stage, therapeutic and diagnostic capability of the prepared Pep@MUA.GNR-DOX and Apt-Pep@MUA.GNR-DOX were investigated implementing subcutaneous 4T1 tumor model in BALB/c mice. The obtained data indicated highest therapeutic index for Apt-Pep@MUA.GNR-DOX compared to Pep@MUA.GNR-DOX and free DOX. Moreover, the prepared system showed capability of CT imaging of tumor tissue in 4T1 tumorized mice through tumor accumulation even 24 h post-administration.

CONCLUSION

In this regard, the synthesized theranostic peptosomes offer innovative hybrid multipurpose platform for fighting against breast cancer.

Photo- and radio-luminescence of porphyrin functionalized ZnO/SiO2 nanoparticles

The development of hybrid nanoscintillators is hunted for the implementation of modern detection technologies, like in high energy physics, homeland security, radioactive gas sensing, and medical imaging, as well as of the established therapies in radiation oncology, such as in X-ray activated photodynamic therapy. Engineering of the physico-chemical properties of nanoparticles (NPs) enables the manufacture of hybrids in which the conjugation of inorganic/organic components leads to increased multifunctionality and performance. However, the optimization of the properties of nanoparticles in combination with the use of ionizing radiation is not trivial: a complete knowledge on the structure, composition, physico-chemical features, and scintillation property relationships in hybrid nanomaterials is pivotal for any applications exploiting X-rays. In this paper, the design of hybrid nanoscintillators based on ZnO grown onto porous SiO₂ substrates (ZnO/SiO₂) has been performed in the view to create nanosystems potentially suitable in X-ray activated photodynamic therapy. Indeed, cytotoxic porphyrin dyes with increasing concentrations have been anchored on ZnO/SiO₂ nanoparticles through amino-silane moieties. Chemical and structural analyses correlated with photoluminescence reveal that radiative energy transfer between ZnO and porphyrins is the principal mechanism prompting the excitation of photosensitizers. The use of soft X-ray excitation results in a further sensitization of the porphyrin emission, due to augmented energy deposition promoted by ZnO in the surroundings of the chemically bound porphyrin. This finding unveils the cruciality of the design of hybrid nanoparticles in ruling the efficacy of the interaction between ionizing radiation and inorganic/organic moieties, and thus of the final nanomaterial performances towards the foreseen application.

Hyaluronic Acid within Self-Assembling Nanoparticles: Endless Possibilities for Targeted Cancer Therapy

Self-assembling nanoparticles (SANPs) based on hyaluronic acid (HA) represent unique tools in cancer therapy because they combine the HA targeting activity towards cancer cells with the advantageous features of the self-assembling nanosystems, i.e., chemical versatility and ease of preparation and scalability. This review describes the key outcomes arising from the combination of HA and SANPs, focusing on nanomaterials where HA and/or HA-derivatives are inserted within the self-assembling nanostructure. We elucidate the different HA derivatization strategies proposed for this scope, as well as the preparation methods used for the fabrication of the delivery device. After showing the biological results in the employed in vivo and in vitro models, we discussed the pros and cons of each nanosystem, opening a discussion on which approach represents the most promising strategy for further investigation and effective therapeutic protocol development.

Monoporous Microsphere as a Dynamically Movable Drug Carrier for Osteoporotic Bone Remodeling

To repair systematically osteoporotic bone defects, it is significant to take effort on both the diminishment of osteoporosis and the enhancement of bone regeneration. Herein, a specifically monoporous microsphere carrier encapsulating dosage-sensitive and short half-time parathyroid hormone (PTH) has been constructed to tackle the issue. Compared with conventional microsphere carriers involving compact, porous, and mesoporous microspheres, the monoporous microsphere is desirable to achieve precisely in-situ delivery and to minimize topical accumulation. Our findings show that the PTH loaded inside MPMs can be gradually released from the single hole of MPMs to improve the initial drug concentration. Also, the MPMs can self-shift with the daily movement of experimental animals to effectively reduce the topical aggregation of released drugs in vitro. In vivo evaluation further confirms that the implant of MPMs-PTH plays a dual role in stimulating the regenerative repair of the cranial defect and relieving osteoporosis in the whole body. Consequently, our current work develops a dynamically movable drug delivery system to achieve precisely in-situ delivery, minimize topical accumulation, and systematically repair osteoporotic bone defects. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Metallopolymer Particle Engineering via Etching of Boronate Polymers toward High-Performance Overall Water Splitting Catalysts

Metallopolymers combine the property features of both metallic compounds and organic polymers, representing a typical direction for the design of high-performance hybrid materials. Here, a highly adaptive etching method to create pores and cavities in the metallopolymer particles is established. Starting from boronate polymer (BP) and inorganic@BP core-shell particles, porous, hollow, and yolk-shell metallopolymer particles can be fabricated, respectively. By taking advantage of the easy control over composition and pore/cavity structure, these metallopolymer particles provide a universal platform for the fabrication of nitrogen, boron co-doped carbon nanocomposites loaded with metals (M-NBCs). The as-prepared M-NBCs exhibit remarkable catalytic activities toward oxygen evolution reaction and hydrogen evolution reaction. An alkaline overall water splitting cell assembled by using M-NBCs as the anode and cathode can be driven by a single AAA battery. The proposed strategy for the construction of metallopolymer composites may enlighten for the design of complex hybrid nanomaterials.

The emergence of nanoporous materials in lung cancer therapy

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers, affecting more than 2.1 million people across the globe every year. A very high occurrence and mortality rate of lung cancer have prompted active research in this area with both conventional and novel forms of therapies including the use of nanomaterials based drug delivery agents. Specifically, the unique physico-chemical and biological properties of porous nanomaterials have gained significant momentum as drug delivery agents for delivering a combination of drugs or merging diagnosis with targeted therapy for cancer treatment. This review focuses on the emergence of nano-porous materials for drug delivery in lung cancer. The review analyses the currently used nanoporous materials, including inorganic, organic and hybrid porous materials for delivering drugs for various types of therapies, including chemo, radio and phototherapy. It also analyses the selected research on stimuli-responsive nanoporous materials for drug delivery in lung cancer before summarizing the various findings and projecting the future of emerging trends. This review provides a strong foundation for the current status of the research on nanoporous materials, their limitations and the potential for improving their design to overcome the unique challenges of delivering drugs for the treatment of lung cancer.

Recent advances in nanoparticle-based photothermal therapy for breast cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women that is associated with high mortality. Conventional treatments including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, which are not effective enough and have disadvantages such as toxicity and damage to healthy cells. Photothermal therapy (PTT) of cancer cells has been took great attention by researchers in recent years due to the use of light radiation and heat generation at the tumor site, which thermal ablation is considered a minimally invasive method for the treatment of breast cancer. Nanotechnology has opened up a new perspective in the treatment of breast cancer using PTT method. Through NIR light absorption, researchers applied various nanostructures because of their specific nature of penetrating and targeting tumor tissue, increasing the effectiveness of PTT, and combining it with other treatments. If PTT is used with common cancer treatments, it can dramatically increase the effectiveness of treatment and reduce the side effects of other methods. PTT performance can also be improved by hybridizing at least two different nanomaterials. Nanoparticles that intensely absorb light and increase the efficiency of converting light into heat can specifically kill tumors through hyperthermia of cancer cells. One of the main reasons that have increased the efficiency of nanoparticles in PTT is their permeability and durability effect and they can accumulate in tumor tissue. Targeted PTT can be provided by incorporating specific ligands to target receptors expressed on the surface of cancer cells on nanoparticles. These nanoparticles can specifically target cancer cells by maintaining the surface area and increasing penetration. In this study, we briefly introduce the performance of light therapy, application of metal nanoparticles, polymer nanoparticles, carbon nanoparticles, and hybrid nanoparticles for use in PTT of breast cancer.

"Cascaded Rocket" Nanosystems with Spatiotemporal Separation for Triple-Synergistic Therapy of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains an incurable disease due to the intricate pathogenesis. The neuropathological hallmarks include extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques, tau phosphorylation and extensive oxidative stress in neurons, which facilitate the progression of AD. Based on the complex etiology, a spatiotemporally "cascaded rocket" delivery system (DPH/TPGAS NPs) with metal ion/enzyme responses is established in this study for triple-synergistic AD treatment. After targeting and permeating the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the histidine units in the DPH chelate excess metal ions at the extracellular microenvironment, restraining the formation of Aβ aggregates, inducing the first-stage separation. Then, the remanent system targets neuronal cells and triggers the second separation with cathepsin B for reducing the level of phosphorylated tau and oxidative stress. Accordingly, the DPH/TPGAS NPs can achieve spatiotemporal drug release, which results in enhanced synergistic therapeutic effects both in the extracellular and intracellular region of the AD brain. After treating with DPH/TPGAS NPs, the memory deficits, levels of Aβ and phosphorylated tau, inflammation and neuron damages are remarkably ameliorated in 3 × Tg-AD mice. Therefore, this "cascaded rocket" delivery system has great potential to serve as a powerful platform and provides a new horizon to the therapeutic strategy for AD and other brain diseases' treatments.

Light-Harvesting Novel Hierarchical Porous Cu9S5-MnWO4 Hybrid Structures in Photocatalytic Oxidative Homocoupling of Alkynes and Amines

The discovery of light-harvesting materials for use in photocatalytic organic reactions has recently attracted attention, indicating the potential for utilizing renewable energy sources. A hybrid semiconductor (SC)-SC structure, Cu₉S₅-MnWO₄, was synthesized using a simple, efficient method. The novel hierarchical porous Cu₉S₅-MnWO₄ hybrid structures were then applied in the photocatalysis of oxidative homocoupling of alkynes and amines. The design of a heterogeneous catalyst based on a porous, SC-SC hybrid structure and low-cost Cu should generate interest in the fabrication and modification of photocatalysts for a wide range of applications.

Harnessing the Immunogenic Potential of Gold Nanoparticle-Based Platforms as a Therapeutic Strategy in Breast Cancer Immunotherapy: A Mini Review

Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy among women worldwide. Although the implementation of mammography has dramatically increased the early detection rate, conventional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, have significantly improved the prognosis for breast cancer patients. However, about a third of treated breast cancer patients are known to suffer from disease recurrences and progression to metastasis. Immunotherapy has recently gained traction due to its ability to establish long-term immune surveillance, and response for the prevention of disease recurrence and extension of patient survival. Current research findings have revealed that gold nanoparticles can enhance the safety and efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, through their unique intrinsic properties of good biocompatibility, durability, convenient surface modification, as well as enhanced permeability and retention effect. Gold nanoparticles are also able to induce innate immune responses through the process of immunogenic cell death, which can lead to the establishment of lasting adaptive immunity. As such gold nanoparticles are considered as good candidates for next generation immunotherapeutic strategies. This mini review gives an overview of gold nanoparticles and their potential applications in breast cancer immunotherapeutic strategies.

Functionalized Nanostructured Bioactive Carriers: Nanoliposomes, Quantum Dots, Tocosome and Theranostic Approach

BACKGROUND

Lipidic nanocarriers have great potential for the encapsulation and delivery of numerous bioactive compounds. They have demonstrated significant benefits over traditional disease management and conventional therapy. The benefits associated with the particular properties of lipidic nanocarriers include site-specific drug deposition, improved pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, enhanced internalization and intracellular transport, biodegradability, and decreased biodistribution. These properties result in the alleviation of the harmful consequences of conventional treatment protocols. Scope and approach: The administration of various bioactive molecules has been extensively investigated using nanostructured lipid carriers. In this article, theranostic applications of novel formulations of lipidic nanocarriers combined or complexed with quantum dots, certain polymers such as chitosan, and metallic nanoparticles (particularly gold) are reviewed. These formulations have demonstrated better controlled release features, improved drug loading capability, as well as a lower burst release rate. As a recent innovation in the field of drug delivery, tocosomes and their unique advantages are also explained in the final section of this entry.

KEY FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS

Theranostic medicine requires nanocarriers with improved target-specific accumulation and bio-distribution. Towards this end, lipid-based nanocarrier systems and tocosomes combined with unique properties of quantum dots, biocompatible polymers, and metallic nanoparticles seem to be ideal candidates to be considered for safe and efficient drug delivery.

Development, Therapeutic Evaluation and Theranostic Applications of Cubosomes on Cancers: An Updated Review

Cancer is a group of disorders characterized by aberrant gene function and alterations in gene expression patterns. In 2020, it was anticipated that 19 million new cancer cases would be diagnosed globally, with around 10 million cancer deaths. Late diagnosis and interventions are the leading causes of cancer-related mortality. In addition, the absence of comprehensive cancer therapy adds to the burden. Many lyotropic non-lamellar liquid-crystalline-nanoparticle-mediated formulations have been developed in the last few decades, with promising results in drug delivery, therapeutics, and diagnostics. Cubosomes are nano-structured liquid-crystalline particles made of specific amphiphilic lipids in particular proportions. Their ability to encapsulate lipophilic, hydrophilic, and amphiphilic molecules within their structure makes them one of a kind. They are biocompatible, versatile drug carriers that can deliver medications through various routes of administration. Many preclinical studies on the use of cubosomes in cancer treatment and theranostic applications have been conducted. However, before cubosomes may be employed in clinical practice, significant technical advances must be accomplished. This review summarizes the development of cubosomes and their multifunctional role in cancer treatment based on the most recent reports.

Engineering biomolecular systems: Controlling the self-assembly of gelatin to form ultra-small bioactive nanomaterials

The size of nanocarriers determines the biological property of the materials, especially as it relates to intratumoral distribution. Previous research has shown that sizes of 10–50 nm penetrate deep inside the tumor, resulting in better efficacy. On the other hand, studies have shown that gelatin exhibits excellent biological properties, including compatibility, degradability, and toxicity. Therefore, FDA approved gelatin as a safe material to use as an excipient in injectables. The bottleneck is the nonexistence of smaller-sized gelatin nanoparticles (GNPs) to realize the full potential of these biomaterials. Yet, GNPs with sizes of less than 50 nm have not been reported; the synthetic strategy reported in the literature uses “uncontrolled crosslinking coupled with nanoprecipitation”, resulting in larger particle size. We have developed a new method to self-assemble gelatin strands by using an anionic, phosphate-based crosslinker and controlled precipitation. The method we developed produced ultra-small gelatin nanoparticles (G^X) of size 10 nm with a high degree of reproducibility, and it was characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), High-resolution transmission, and scanning electron microscopy (HR-TEM/STEM). We also explored G^X as a bioactive platform to encapsulate imaging and therapy agents within the cavity. Interestingly, we were able to encapsulate 2 nm size gold nanoparticles within the void of G^X. The versatile nature of the G^X particles was further demonstrated by surface functionalizing with larger size gelatin nanoparticles to form core-satellite nanocomposites. Additionally, we studied the tumor penetrability of dye-tagged 10, 50, and 200 nm gelatin nanoparticles. The study showed that smaller size gelatin nanoparticles penetrate deeper tumor regions than larger particles. In general, G^X was efficient in penetrating the inner region of the spheroids. The results demonstrate the potential capabilities of ultra-small G^X nanoparticles for multi-staged payload delivery, diagnostics, and cancer therapy.

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Synthesized 10 nm-size gelatin nanoparticles (G^X) using controlled self-assembly process.

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G^X was used as a platform to encapsulate imaging and therapeutic agents. In addition, smaller size gold nanoparticles also were encapsulated.

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The surface of G^X was used to attach with gold or larger size gelatin nanoparticles.

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Using tumor spheroids, we demonstrated that G^X show enhanced enhancedtumor penetrability.

Shell-Isolated Assembly of Atomically Precise Nanoclusters on Gold Nanorods for Integrated Plasmonic-Luminescent Nanocomposites

In this work, we integrate atomically precise noble metal nanoclusters (NCs) on gold nanorods (AuNRs) to create hybrid plasmonic-luminescent nanomaterials. Initially, we assemble luminescent Ag₂₉(LA)₁₂ NC (LA = lipoic acid) to silica shell-encapsulated AuNRs. The resulting nanostructure shows plasmon-enhanced luminescence in aqueous medium as well as in the solid state. Atomic precision of the fluorophores used in this case allows detailed characterization of individual nanocomposites by diverse techniques, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and 3D electron tomographic reconstruction. We extend this strategy to prepare similar structures with gold NC protected with bovine serum albumin (Au₃₀BSA). These two examples demonstrate the generic nature of the present strategy in preparing plasmonic-luminescent hybrid nanostructures using atomically precise NCs.

Poly(Lactic-co-glycolic) Acid and Phospholipids Hybrid Nanoparticles for Regeneration of Biological Tissue

In tissue regeneration, biomaterials facilitate biological processes. However, a treatment with biomaterials will be successful only if supported by simple and inexpensive technologies which stimulate the regenerative processes. The present study focused on the possibility of creating formulations from which then to obtain suitable materials for the regeneration of heart tissue. The experimental procedure for precipitation of polymer- nanoparticles was modified ad hoc to obtain hybrid poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA)-phospholipid nanoparticles. The properties of the formulations produced by direct PLGA-phospholipid co-precipitation depend on the mass ratio R= polymer mass/phospholipid mass. The value of this parameter allows us to modulate the properties of the formulations. Formulations with R = 1.5, 2.3, 4, and 9 were prepared, and for each of them the particle-size distribution obtained by dynamic light scattering was studied. All samples showed that the hydrodynamic diameter decreases with increasing R value. This behavior is interpreted as polymer coil shrinkage due to contacts with the non-solvent. The spreadability and ease of obtaining thin sheets were evaluated for each formulation. The formulation with R=4 resulted in a homogeneous and easily workable material in thin sheets.

Exosome-liposome hybrid nanoparticle codelivery of TP and miR497 conspicuously overcomes chemoresistant ovarian cancer

Background

Although cisplatin-based chemotherapy has been used as the first-line treatment for ovarian cancer (OC), tumor cells develop resistance to cisplatin during treatment, causing poor prognosis in OC patients. Studies have demonstrated that overactivation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) pathway is involved in tumor chemoresistance and that overexpression of microRNA-497 (miR497) may overcome OC chemotherapy resistance by inhibiting the mTOR pathway. However, the low transcriptional efficiency and unstable chemical properties of miR497 limit its clinical application. Additionally, triptolide (TP) was confirmed to possess a superior killing effect on cisplatin-resistant cell lines, partially through inhibiting the mTOR pathway. Even so, the clinical applications of TP are restricted by serious systemic toxicity and weak water solubility.

Results

Herein, whether the combined application of miR497 and TP could further overcome OC chemoresistance by synergically suppressing the mTOR signaling pathway was investigated. Bioinspired hybrid nanoparticles formed by the fusion of CD47-expressing tumor exosomes and cRGD-modified liposomes (miR497/TP-HENPs) were prepared to codeliver miR497 and TP. In vitro results indicated that the nanoparticles were efficiently taken up by tumor cells, thus significantly enhancing tumor cell apoptosis. Similarly, the hybrid nanoparticles were effectively enriched in the tumor areas and exerted significant anticancer activity without any negative effects in vivo. Mechanistically, they promoted dephosphorylation of the overactivated PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, boosted reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and upregulated the polarization of macrophages from M2 to M1 macrophages.

Conclusion

Overall, our findings may provide a translational strategy to overcome cisplatin-resistant OC and offer a potential solution for the treatment of other cisplatin-resistant tumors.

Graphical Abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12951-022-01264-5.

Nanotechnology-Based Approaches to Promote Lymph Node Targeted Delivery of Cancer Vaccines

Vaccines are a promising immunotherapy that awakens the human immune system to inhibit and eliminate cancer with fewer side effects compared with traditional radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Although cancer vaccines have shown some efficacy, there are still troublesome bottlenecks to expand their benefits in the clinic, including weak immune effects and limited therapeutic outcomes. In the past few years, in addition to neoantigen screening, a main branch of the efforts has been devoted to promoting the lymph nodes (LNs) targeting of cancer vaccines and the cross-presentation of antigens by dendritic cells (DCs), two cardinal stages in effective initiation of the immune response. Especially, nanomaterials have shown hopeful biomedical applications in the improvement of vaccine effectiveness. This Review briefly outlines the possible mechanisms by which nanoparticle properties affect LN targeting and antigen cross-presentation and then gives an overview of state-of-the-art advances in improving these biological outcomes with nanotechnology.

Supramolecular biomaterials for enhanced cancer immunotherapy

Cancer immunotherapy has achieved promising clinical results. However, many limitations associated with current cancer immunotherapy still exist, including low response rates and severe adverse effects in patients. Engineering biomaterials for...

Nanocarriers for pancreatic cancer imaging, treatments, and immunotherapies

Pancreatic tumors are highly desmoplastic and immunosuppressive. Delivery and distribution of drugs within pancreatic tumors are compromised due to intrinsic physical and biochemical stresses that lead to increased interstitial fluid pressure, vascular compression, and hypoxia. Immunotherapy-based approaches, including therapeutic vaccines, immune checkpoint inhibition, CAR-T cell therapy, and adoptive T cell therapies, are challenged by an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Together, extensive fibrosis and immunosuppression present major challenges to developing treatments for pancreatic cancer. In this context, nanoparticles have been extensively studied as delivery platforms and adjuvants for cancer and other disease therapies. Recent advances in nanotechnology have led to the development of multiple nanocarrier-based formulations that not only improve drug delivery but also enhance immunotherapy-based approaches for pancreatic cancer. This review discusses and critically analyzes the novel nanoscale strategies that have been used for drug delivery and immunomodulation to improve treatment efficacy, including newly emerging immunotherapy-based approaches. This review also presents important perspectives on future research directions that will guide the rational design of novel and robust nanoscale platforms to treat pancreatic tumors, particularly with respect to targeted therapies and immunotherapies. These insights will inform the next generation of clinical treatments to help patients manage this debilitating disease and enhance survival rates.

Evaluation of the wound healing effect of neomycin-silver nano-composite gel in rats

Objectives: Both nano silver and neomycin have wound healing properties. Silver nanoparticles have been used as main compounds for therapeutic drug delivery systems against various ailments. The present study aimed to prepare a neomycin silver nano-composite gel easily, rapidly, and cheaply method to improve wound healing. Methods: Forty-five Wistar rats (150–200 g) divided into nine groups: wound untreated, wound fusidic acid treated, wound neomycin treated, three groups with wound and neomycin silver nano-composite gel at 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 concentrations, respectively, and three groups wound treated silver nano gel at the previous concentrations, respectively. Percentages of wound healing and histopathological examination of the wound area were assessed in all groups. Results: Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images demonstrated the spherical shape of neomycin silver nano-composite gel without aggregation but homogenous dispersion in a gel matrix. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) showed a 4 nm size of nano silver, which agrees with AFM image data analysis but not with TEM image due to the good coating of the gel matrix to silver nanoparticles. Dynamic light scattering Zeta potential was −21 mV, illustrating the high bioactivity of the neomycin silver nano-composite. The groups receiving neomycin silver nano-composite gel showed a significantly higher and dose dependent wound healing compared to other treatment groups. Conclusion: The present work confirmed the potential wound healing activity of neomycin silver nano-composite gel compared to either alone.

Ultrasound-Triggered Liposomes Encapsulating Quantum Dots as Safe Fluorescent Markers for Colorectal Cancer

Quantum dots (QDs) are a promising tool to detect and monitor tumors. However, their small size allows them to accumulate in large quantities inside the healthy cells (in addition to the tumor cells), which increases their toxicity. In this study, we synthesized stealth liposomes encapsulating hydrophilic graphene quantum dots and triggered their release with ultrasound with the goal of developing a safer and well-controlled modality to deliver fluorescent markers to tumors. Our results confirmed the successful encapsulation of the QDs inside the core of the liposomes and showed no effect on the size or stability of the prepared liposomes. Our results also showed that low-frequency ultrasound is an effective method to release QDs encapsulated inside the liposomes in a spatially and temporally controlled manner to ensure the effective delivery of QDs to tumors while reducing their systemic toxicity.

Design and Application of Near-Infrared Nanomaterial-Liposome Hybrid Nanocarriers for Cancer Photothermal Therapy

Liposomes are attractive carriers for targeted and controlled drug delivery receiving increasing attention in cancer photothermal therapy. However, the field of creating near-infrared nanomaterial-liposome hybrid nanocarriers (NIRN-Lips) is relatively little understood. The hybrid nanocarriers combine the dual superiority of nanomaterials and liposomes, with more stable particles, enhanced photoluminescence, higher tumor permeability, better tumor-targeted drug delivery, stimulus-responsive drug release, and thus exhibiting better anti-tumor efficacy. Herein, this review covers the liposomes supported various types of near-infrared nanomaterials, including gold-based nanomaterials, carbon-based nanomaterials, and semiconductor quantum dots. Specifically, the NIRN-Lips are described in terms of their feature, synthesis, and drug-release mechanism. The design considerations of NIRN-Lips are highlighted. Further, we briefly introduced the photothermal conversion mechanism of NIRNs and the cell death mechanism induced by photothermal therapy. Subsequently, we provided a brief conclusion of NIRNs-Lips applied in cancer photothermal therapy. Finally, we discussed a synopsis of associated challenges and future perspectives for the applications of NIRN-Lips in cancer photothermal therapy.

Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy Mediated by Metal Phosphorus-Based Nanomaterials

Metal phosphorus-based nanomaterials (Metal-P NMs) including metal phosphate nanomaterials, metal phosphide nanomaterials, and metal-black phosphorus (Metal-BP) nanocomposite are widely used in the field of biomedicine owing to their excellent physical and chemical properties, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. In recent years, metal phosphate nanomaterials and Metal-BP nanocomposite acted as medicine delivery system have made breakthroughs in tumor diagnosis including magnetic resonance imaging, fluorescence imaging, photoacoustic imaging, nuclear imaging, and therapies including chemotherapy, gene therapy, photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, and radiation therapy. Metal phosphate nanomaterials have good biodegradability, especially calcium-based metal phosphate nanomaterials can be dissolved into nontoxic ions and participate in the metabolisms of normal organs. Compared with metal phosphate nanomaterials, metal phosphide nanomaterials have excellent optical, magnetic, and catalytic properties, which can be used as multifunctional diagnostic nanoplatforms and therapeutic agents for chemodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, or immunotherapy. The latest developments in Metal-P NMs, covering the range of preparation methods and biological applications, such as serving as drug carriers, tumor diagnosis, and therapy, are focused. All in all, the current trends, key issues, future prospects and challenges of Metal-P NMs are concluded and discussed, which are important for the development of this research field and shining more lights on this direction.

Periodic mesoporous organosilica coupled with chlorin e6 and catalase for enhanced photodynamic therapy to treat triple-negative breast cancer

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has become a promising treatment option for highly aggressive triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC); however, hypoxia limits the efficacy of PDT and promotes tumour aggression. In this work, we first constructed a multifunctional yolk-shell structured nanoplatform consisting of periodic mesoporous organosilica (PMO) coupled with chlorin e6 (Ce6) and catalase (Catalase) (Yolk-Shell PMO-Ce6@Catalase) for enhanced PDT against TNBC. This nanoplatform has an organic-inorganic hybrid skeleton structure, a uniform size and good stability and biocompatibility. In vitro experiments showed that the nanoplatform has a good ability to generate singlet oxygen. Catalase can convert H₂O₂ into O₂, increasing the concentration of oxygen around the cells and overcoming the problem of hypoxia in the tumour, which enhances the effects of PDT. The in vivo experimental results showed that PDT with the Yolk-Shell PMO-Ce6@Catalase nanoplatform, compared with free Ce6 and Yolk-Shell PMO-Ce6 PDT, can significantly inhibit tumour growth, revealing the most extensive cellular apoptosis and necrosis in the tumour area in this treatment group. Additionally, the histopathological results showed that PDT did not cause significant side effects to the major organs. Therefore, we believe that this Yolk-Shell PMO-Ce6@Catalase nanoplatform has excellent clinical potential for PDT against TNBC.

Nanoparticle Systems for Cancer Phototherapy: An Overview

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) are photo-mediated treatments with different mechanisms of action that can be addressed for cancer treatment. Both phototherapies are highly successful and barely or non-invasive types of treatment that have gained attention in the past few years. The death of cancer cells because of the application of these therapies is caused by the formation of reactive oxygen species, that leads to oxidative stress for the case of photodynamic therapy and the generation of heat for the case of photothermal therapies. The advancement of nanotechnology allowed significant benefit to these therapies using nanoparticles, allowing both tuning of the process and an increase of effectiveness. The encapsulation of drugs, development of the most different organic and inorganic nanoparticles as well as the possibility of surfaces' functionalization are some strategies used to combine phototherapy and nanotechnology, with the aim of an effective treatment with minimal side effects. This article presents an overview on the use of nanostructures in association with phototherapy, in the view of cancer treatment.

Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticle-Based Imaging Agents for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Detection

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by poor prognosis and high mortality. The treatment of HCC is closely related to the stage, and the early-stage of HCC patients usually accompanies a more long-term survival rate after clinical treatment. Hence, there are critical needs to develop effective imaging agents with superior diagnostic precision for HCC detection at an early stage. Recently, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) based imaging agents have gained extensive attentions in HCC detection, which can serve as a multifunctional nanoplatform with controllable size and facile surface functionalization. This perspective summarizes recent advances in MSNs based imaging agents for HCC detection by the incorporation of several clinical imaging modalities. Multi-modal imaging system has been developed for higher spatial resolution and sensitivity. Even though some limitations and challenges need to be overcome, we envision the development of novel MSNs based imaging agents will offer great potential applications in clinical HCC detection.

Organic/Inorganic Self-Assembled Hybrid Nano-Architectures for Cancer Therapy Applications

Since the conceptualization of nanomedicine, numerous nanostructure-mediated drug formulations have progressed into clinical trials for treating cancer. However, recent clinical trial results indicate such kind of drug formulations has a limited improvement on the antitumor efficacy. This is due to the biological barriers associated with those formulations, for example, circulation stability, extravasation efficiency in tumor, tumor penetration ability, and developed multi-drug resistance. When employing for nanomedicine formulations, pristine organic-based and inorganic-based nanostructures have their own limitations. Accordingly, organic/inorganic (O/I) hybrids have been developed to integrate the merits of both, and to minimize their intrinsic drawbacks. In this context, the recent development in O/I hybrids resulting from a self-assembly strategy will be introduced. Through such a strategy, organic and inorganic building blocks can be self-assembled via either chemical covalent bonds or physical interactions. Based on the self-assemble procedure, the hybridization of four organic building blocks including liposomes, micelles, dendrimers, and polymeric nanocapsules with five functional inorganic nanoparticles comprising gold nanostructures, magnetic nanoparticles, carbon-based materials, quantum dots, and silica nanoparticles will be highlighted. The recent progress of these O/I hybrids in advanced modalities for combating cancer, such as, therapeutic agent delivery, photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, and immunotherapy will be systematically reviewed.

Scalable synthesis of multicomponent multifunctional inorganic core@mesoporous silica shell nanocomposites

Integrating multiple materials with different functionalities in a single nanostructure enables advances in many scientific and technological applications. However, such highly sophisticated nanomaterials usually require complex synthesis processes that complicate their preparation in a sustainable and industrially feasible manner. Herein, we designed a simple general method to grow a mesoporous silica shell onto any combination of hydrophilic nanoparticle cores. The synthetic strategy, based on the adjustment of the key parameters of the sol-gel process for the silica shell formation, allows for the embedment of single, double, and triple inorganic nanoparticles within the same shell, as well as the size-control of the obtained nanocomposites. No additional interfacial adhesive layer is required on the nanoparticle surfaces for the embedding process. Adopting this approach, electrostatically stabilized, small-sized (from 4 to 15 nm) CeO₂, Fe₃O₄, Gd₂O₃, NaYF₄, Au, and Ag cores were used to test the methodology. The mean diameter of the resulting nanocomposites could be as low as 55 nm, with high monodispersity. These are very feasible sizes for biological intervention, and we further observed increased nanoparticle stability in physiological environments. As a demonstration of their increased activity as a result of this, the antioxidant activity of CeO₂ cores was enhanced when in core-shell form. Remarkably, the method is conducted entirely at room temperature, atmospheric conditions, and in aqueous solvent with the use of ethanol as co-solvent. These facile and even "green" synthesis conditions favor scalability and easy preparation of multicomponent nanocomposite libraries with standard laboratory glassware and simple benchtop chemistry, through this sustainable and cost-effective fabrication process.

Nanoparticle-Mediated Targeted Drug Delivery to Remodel Tumor Microenvironment for Cancer Therapy

Advanced research has revealed the crucial role of tumor microenvironment (TME) in tumorigenesis. TME consists of a complicated network with a variety of cell types including endothelial cells, pericytes, immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), cancer stem cells (CSCs) as well as the extracellular matrix (ECM). The TME-constituting cells interact with the cancerous cells through plenty of signaling mechanisms and pathways in a dynamical way, participating in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and response to therapies. Hence, TME is becoming an attractive therapeutic target in cancer treatment, exhibiting potential research interest and clinical benefits. Presently, the novel nanotechnology applied in TME regulation has made huge progress. The nanoparticles (NPs) can be designed as demand to precisely target TME components and to inhibit tumor progression through TME modulation. Moreover, nanotechnology-mediated drug delivery possesses many advantages including prolonged circulation time, enhanced bioavailability and decreased toxicity over traditional therapeutic modality. In this review, update information on TME remodeling through NPs-based targeted drug delivery strategies for anticancer therapy is summarized.

Silica-Coated Fe3O4 Nanoparticles as a Bifunctional Agent for Magnetic Resonance Imaging and ZnII Fluorescent Sensing

Bifunctional magnetic/fluorescent core-shell silica nanospheres (MNPs) encapsulated with the magnetic Fe₃O₄ core and a derivate of 8-amimoquinoline (N-(quinolin-8-yl)-2-(3-(triethoxysilyl) propylamino) acetamide) (QTEPA) into the shell were synthesized. These functional MNPs were prepared with a modified stöber method and the formed Fe₃O₄@SiO₂-QTEPA core-shell nanocomposites are biocompatible, water-dispersible, and stable. These prepared nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray power diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermoelectric plasma Quad II inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID), TG/DTA thermal analyzer (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Further application of the nanoparticles in detecting Zn²⁺ was confirmed by the fluorescence experiment: the nanosensor shows high selectivity and sensitivity to Zn²⁺ with a 22-fold fluorescence emission enhancement in the presence of 10 μM Zn²⁺. Moreover, the transverse relaxivity measurements show that the core-shell MNPs have T2 relaxivity (r2) of 155.05 mM^-1 S^-1 based on Fe concentration on the 3.0 T scanner, suggesting that the compound can be used as a negative contrast agent for MRI. Further in vivo experiments showed that these MNPs could be used as MRI contrast agent. Therefore, the new nanosensor provides the dual modality of magnetic resonance imaging and optical imaging.

Multifunctional Gold Nanorod for Therapeutic Applications and Pharmaceutical Delivery Considering Cellular Metabolic Responses, Oxidative Stress and Cellular Longevity

Multifunctional gold nanorods (GNR) have drawn growing interest in biomedical fields because of their excellent biocompatibility, ease of alteration, and special optical properties. The great advantage of using GNR in medicine is their application to Photothermal therapy (PPTT), which is possible thanks to their ability to turn luminous energy into heat to cause cellular hyperthermia. For this purpose, the relevant articles between 1988 and 2020 were searched in databases such as John Wiley, Free paper, Scopus, Science Direct, and Springer to obtain the latest findings on multifunctional gold nanorods for therapeutic applications and pharmaceutical delivery. In this article, we review recent progress in diagnostic and therapeutic applications of multifunctional GNR, highlighting new information about their toxicity to various cellular categories, oxidative stress, cellular longevity, and their metabolic effects, such as the effect on the energy cycles and genetic structures. The methods for the synthesis and functionalization of GNR were surveyed. This review includes new information about GNR toxicity to various cellular categories and their metabolic effects.

Exosome-based hybrid nanostructures for enhanced tumor targeting and hyperthermia therapy

Recently, natural exosomes have attracted attention as an ideal drug carrier to overcome the limitations of existing drug delivery systems which are toxicity induction and low cancer-targeting performance. In this study, we propose an exosome-based hybrid nanostructure (EHN) with improved targeting ability and therapeutic efficacy against colorectal cancer by using exosomes isolated from the tumor cell line as a drug carrier. The proposed EHN can have high biocompatibility by using exosomes, a biologically derived material, and show improved targeting performance by adding a tumor-targeting ligand (folic acid). In addition, the proposed EHN is capable of chemotherapy because doxorubicin, an anticancer drug, is encapsulated by the exosome with high efficiency, and it can induce hyperthermia therapy because of the magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) attached to the surface of exosomes. Through in vitro and in vivo experiments using a xenograft tumor mouse model, it was confirmed that the proposed EHN could exhibit increased apoptosis and excellent tumor growth inhibition ability. Therefore, the proposed EHN is expected to overcome the limitations of existing drug delivery systems and be utilized as an effective drug delivery system in cancer treatment.

Molecular Perspective of Nanoparticle Mediated Therapeutic Targeting in Breast Cancer: An Odyssey of Endoplasmic Reticulum Unfolded Protein Response (UPRER) and Beyond

Breast cancer (BC) is the second most frequent cause of death among women. Representing a complex and heterogeneous type of cancer, its occurrence is attributed by both genetic (gene mutations, e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2) and non-genetic (race, ethnicity, etc.) risk factors. The effectiveness of available treatment regimens (small molecules, cytotoxic agents, and inhibitors) decreased due to their poor penetration across biological barriers, limited targeting, and rapid body clearance along with their effect on normal resident cells of bone marrow, gastrointestinal tract, and hair follicles. This significantly reduced their clinical outcomes, which led to an unprecedented increase in the number of cases worldwide. Nanomedicine, a nano-formulation of therapeutics, emerged as a versatile delivering module for employment in achieving the effective and target specific delivery of pharmaceutical payloads. Adoption of nanotechnological approaches in delivering therapeutic molecules to target cells ensures not only reduced immune response and toxicity, but increases the stability of therapeutic entities in the systemic circulation that averts their degradation and as such increased extravasations and accumulation via enhanced permeation and the retention (EPR) effect in target tissues. Additionally, nanoparticle (NP)-induced ER stress, which enhances apoptosis and autophagy, has been utilized as a combative strategy in the treatment of cancerous cells. As nanoparticles-based avenues have been capitalized to achieve better efficacy of the new genera of therapeutics with enhanced specificity and safety, the present study is aimed at providing the fundamentals of BC, nanotechnological modules (organic, inorganic, and hybrid) employed in delivering different therapeutic molecules, and mechanistic insights of nano-ER stress induced apoptosis and autophagy with a perspective of exploring this avenue for use in the nano-toxicological studies. Furthermore, the current scenario of USA FDA approved nano-formulations and the future perspective of nanotechnological based interventions to overcome the existing challenges are also discussed.