Recent applications and strategies in nanotechnology for lung diseases

Nanomedicines via the pulmonary route: a promising strategy to reach the target?

Over the past decades, research on nanomedicines as innovative tools in combating complex pathologies has increased tenfold, spanning fields from infectiology and ophthalmology to oncology. This process has further accelerated since the introduction of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. When it comes to human health, nano-objects are designed to protect, transport, and improve the solubility of compounds to allow the delivery of active ingredients on their targets. Nanomedicines can be administered by different routes, such as intravenous, oral, intramuscular, or pulmonary routes. In the latter route, nanomedicines can be aerosolized or nebulized to reach the deep lung. This review summarizes existing nanomedicines proposed for inhalation administration, from their synthesis to their potential clinical use. It also outlines the respiratory organs, their structure, and particularities, with a specific emphasis on how these factors impact the administration of nanomedicines. Furthermore, the review addresses the organs accessible through pulmonary administration, along with various pathologies such as infections, genetic diseases, or cancer that can be addressed through inhaled nanotherapeutics. Finally, it examines the existing devices suitable for the aerosolization of nanomedicines and the range of nanomedicines in clinical development.

Green synthesized silver nanoparticles from Phoenix dactylifera synergistically interact with bioactive extract of Punica granatum against bacterial virulence and biofilm development

The global rise of antibiotic resistance poses a substantial risk to mankind, underscoring the necessity for alternative antimicrobial options. Developing novel drugs has become challenging in matching the pace at which microbial resistance is evolving. Recently, nanotechnology, coupled with natural compounds, has emerged as a promising solution to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria. In the present study, silver nanoparticles were green-synthesized using aqueous extract of Phoenix dactylifera (variety Ajwa) fruits and characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TGA-DTA). The in-vitro synergy of green synthesized P. dactylifera silver nanoparticle (PD-AgNPs) with selected antibiotics and bioactive extract of Punica granatum, i.e., ethyl acetate fraction (PGEF), was investigated using checkerboard assays. The most effective synergistic combination was evaluated against the QS-regulated virulence factors production and biofilm of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 by spectroscopic assays and electron microscopy. In-vivo anti-infective efficacy was examined in Caenorhabditis elegans N2 worms. PD-AgNPs were characterized as spherical in shape with an average diameter of 28.9 nm. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of functional groups responsible for the decrease and stabilization of PD-AgNPs. The signals produced by TGA-DTA analysis indicated the generation of thermally stable and pure crystallite AgNPs. Key phytocompounds detected in bioactive fractions include gulonic acid, dihydrocaffeic acid 3-O-glucuronide, and various fatty acids. The MIC of PD-AgNPs and PGEF ranged from 32 to 128 μg/mL and 250-500 μg/mL, respectively, against test bacterial strains. In-vitro, PD-AgNPs showed additive interaction with selected antibiotics (FICI 0.625-0.75) and synergy with PGEF (FICI 0.25-0.375). This combination inhibited virulence factors by up to 75 % and biofilm formation by 84.87 % in P. aeruginosa PAO1. Infected C. elegans worms with P. aeruginosa PAO1 had a 92.55 % survival rate when treated with PD-AgNPs and PGEF. The combination also reduced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in C. elegans N2 compared to the untreated control. Overall, these findings highlight that biosynthesized PD-AgNPs and bioactive P. granatum extract may be used as a potential therapeutic formulation against MDR bacteria.

Nanomaterials-assisted gene editing and synthetic biology for optimizing the treatment of pulmonary diseases

The use of nanomaterials in gene editing and synthetic biology has emerged as a pivotal strategy in the pursuit of refined treatment methodologies for pulmonary disorders. This review discusses the utilization of nanomaterial-assisted gene editing tools and synthetic biology techniques to promote the development of more precise and efficient treatments for pulmonary diseases. First, we briefly outline the characterization of the respiratory system and succinctly describe the principal applications of diverse nanomaterials in lung ailment treatment. Second, we elaborate on gene-editing tools, their configurations, and assorted delivery methods, while delving into the present state of nanomaterial-facilitated gene-editing interventions for a spectrum of pulmonary diseases. Subsequently, we briefly expound on synthetic biology and its deployment in biomedicine, focusing on research advances in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary conditions against the backdrop of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Finally, we summarize the extant lacunae in current research and delineate prospects for advancement in this domain. This holistic approach augments the development of pioneering solutions in lung disease treatment, thereby endowing patients with more efficacious and personalized therapeutic alternatives.

Advances in nano-based drug delivery systems for the management of cytokine influx-mediated inflammation in lung diseases

Asthma, lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, tuberculosis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and COVID-19 are few examples of inflammatory lung conditions that cause cytokine release syndrome. It can initiate a widespread inflammatory response and may activate several inflammatory pathways that cause multiple organ failures leading to increased number of deaths and increased prevalence rates around the world. Nanotechnology-based therapeutic modalities such as nanoparticles, liposomes, nanosuspension, monoclonal antibodies, and vaccines can be used in the effective treatment of inflammatory lung diseases at both cellular and molecular levels. This would also help significantly in the reduction of patient mortality. Therefore, nanotechnology could be a potent platform for repurposing current medications in the treatment of inflammatory lung diseases. The aim and approach of this article are to highlight the clinical manifestations of cytokine storm in inflammatory lung diseases along with the advances and potential applications of nanotechnology-based therapeutics in the management of cytokine storm. Further in-depth studies are required to understand the molecular pathophysiology, and how nanotechnology-based therapeutics can help to effectively combat this problem.

Role of STING in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a prevalent form of lung cancer. Patients with advanced NSCLC are currently being treated with various therapies, including traditional radiotherapy, chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapies and immunotherapy. However, a considerable proportion of advance patients who cannot benefit from them. Consequently, it is essential to identify a novel research target that offers an encouraging perspective. The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) has emerged as such a target. At present, it is confirmed that activating STING in NSCLC tumor cells can impede the proliferation and metastasis of dormant tumor cells. This review focuses on the role of STING in NSCLC treatment and the factors influencing its activation. Additionally, it explores the correlation between STING activation and diverse therapy modalities for NSCLC, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Furthermore, it proposes the prospect of innovative therapy methods involving nanoparticles, with the aim of using the features of STING to develop more strategies for NSCLC therapy.

A novel therapeutic outlook: Classification, applications and challenges of inhalable micron/nanoparticle drug delivery systems in lung cancer (Review)

Lung cancer represents a marked global public health concern. Despite existing treatment modalities, the average 5‑year survival rate for patients with patients with lung cancer is only ~20%. As there are numerous adverse effects of systemic administration routes, there is an urgent need to develop a novel therapeutic strategy tailored specifically for patients with lung cancer. Non‑invasive aerosol inhalation, as a route of drug administration, holds unique advantages in the context of respiratory diseases. Nanoscale materials have extensive applications in the field of biomedical research in recent years. The present study provides a comprehensive review of the classification, applications summarized according to existing clinical treatment modalities for lung cancer and challenges associated with inhalable micron/nanoparticle drug delivery systems (DDSs) in lung cancer. Achieving localized treatment of lung cancer preclinical models through inhalation is deemed feasible. However, further research is required to substantiate the efficacy and long‑term safety of inhalable micron/nanoparticle DDSs in the clinical management of lung cancer.

Cryo-shocked tumor cells deliver CRISPR-Cas9 for lung cancer regression by synthetic lethality

Although CRISPR-mediated genome editing holds promise for cancer therapy, inadequate tumor targeting and potential off-target side effects hamper its outcomes. In this study, we present a strategy using cryo-shocked lung tumor cells as a CRISPR-Cas9 delivery system for cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) gene editing, which initiates synthetic lethal in KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). By rapidly liquid nitrogen shocking, we effectively eliminate the pathogenicity of tumor cells while preserving their structure and surface receptor activity. This delivery system enables the loaded CRISPR-Cas9 to efficiently target to lung through the capture in pulmonary capillaries and interactions with endothelial cells. In a NSCLC-bearing mouse model, the drug accumulation is increased nearly fourfold in lung, and intratumoral CDK4 expression is substantially down-regulated compared to CRISPR-Cas9 lipofectamine nanoparticles administration. Furthermore, CRISPR-Cas9 editing-mediated CDK4 ablation triggers synthetic lethal in KRAS-mutant NSCLC and prolongs the survival of mice.

Opportunities and Challenges for Inhalable Nanomedicine Formulations in Respiratory Diseases: A Review

Lungs experience frequent interactions with the external environment and have an abundant supply of blood; therefore, they are susceptible to invasion by pathogenic microorganisms and tumor cells. However, the limited pharmacokinetics of conventional drugs in the lungs poses a clinical challenge. The emergence of different nano-formulations has been facilitated by advancements in nanotechnology. Inhaled nanomedicines exhibit better targeting and prolonged therapeutic effects. Although nano-formulations have great potential, they still present several unknown risks. Herein, we review the (1) physiological anatomy of the lungs and their biological barriers, (2) pharmacokinetics and toxicology of nanomaterial formulations in the lungs; (3) current nanomaterials that can be applied to the respiratory system and related design strategies, and (4) current applications of inhaled nanomaterials in treating respiratory disorders, vaccine design, and imaging detection based on the characteristics of different nanomaterials. Finally, (5) we analyze and summarize the challenges and prospects of nanomaterials for respiratory disease applications. We believe that nanomaterials, particularly inhaled nano-formulations, have excellent prospects for application in respiratory diseases. However, we emphasize that the simultaneous toxic side effects of biological nanomaterials must be considered during the application of these emerging medicines. This study aims to offer comprehensive guidelines and valuable insights for conducting research on nanomaterials in the domain of the respiratory system.

Engineering of targeting antioxidant polypeptide nanopolyplexes for the treatment of acute lung injury

The pathogenesis of acute lung injury (ALI) involves various mechanisms, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and epithelial cell apoptosis. However, current drug therapies face limitations due to issues like systemic distribution, drug degradation in vivo, and hydrophobicity. To address these challenges, we developed a pH-responsive nano-drug delivery system for delivering antioxidant peptides to treat ALI. In this study, we utilized low molecular weight chitosan (LMWC) and hyaluronic acid (HA) as carrier materials. LMWC carries a positive charge, while HA carries a negative charge. By stirring the two together, the electrostatic adsorption between LMWC and HA yielded aggregated drug carriers. To specifically target the antioxidant drug WNWAD to lung lesions and enhance therapeutic outcomes for ALI, we created a targeted drug delivery system known as HA/LMWC@WNWAD (NPs) through a 12-h stirring process. In our research, we characterized the particle size and drug release of NPs. Additionally, we assessed the targeting ability of NPs. Lastly, we evaluated the improvement of lung injury at the cellular and animal levels to investigate the therapeutic mechanism of this drug targeting delivery system.

Advanced pulmonary drug delivery formulations for the treatment of cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF), a fatal genetic condition, causes thick, sticky mucus. It also causes pancreatic dysfunction, bacterial infection, and increased salt loss. Currently available treatments can improve the patient's quality of life. Drug delivery aided by nanotechnology has been explored to alter the pharmacokinetics and toxicity of drugs. In this short review, we aim to summarize various conventional formulations and highlight advanced formulations delivered via the pulmonary route for the treatment of CF. There is considerable interest in advanced drug delivery formulations addressing the various challenges posed by CF. Despite their potential to be translated for clinical use, we anticipate that a significant amount of effort may still be required for translation to the clinic.

Nanomedicine Strategies for Targeting Tumor Stroma

The tumor stroma, or the microenvironment surrounding solid tumors, can significantly impact the effectiveness of cancer therapies. The tumor microenvironment is characterized by high interstitial pressure, a consequence of leaky vasculature, and dense stroma created by excessive deposition of various macromolecules such as collagen, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid (HA). In addition, non-cancerous cells such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and the extracellular matrix (ECM) itself can promote tumor growth. In recent years, there has been increased interest in combining standard cancer treatments with stromal-targeting strategies or stromal modulators to improve therapeutic outcomes. Furthermore, the use of nanomedicine, which can improve the delivery and retention of drugs in the tumor, has been proposed to target the stroma. This review focuses on how different stromal components contribute to tumor progression and impede chemotherapeutic delivery. Additionally, this review highlights recent advancements in nanomedicine-based stromal modulation and discusses potential future directions for developing more effective stroma-targeted cancer therapies.

Advancing Treatment Strategies: A Comprehensive Review of Drug Delivery Innovations for Chronic Inflammatory Respiratory Diseases

Chronic inflammatory respiratory diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis, present ongoing challenges in terms of effective treatment and management. These diseases are characterized by persistent inflammation in the airways, leading to structural changes and compromised lung function. There are several treatments available for them, such as bronchodilators, immunomodulators, and oxygen therapy. However, there are still some shortcomings in the effectiveness and side effects of drugs. To achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes while minimizing systemic side effects, targeted therapies and precise drug delivery systems are crucial to the management of these diseases. This comprehensive review focuses on the role of drug delivery systems in chronic inflammatory respiratory diseases, particularly nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs), novel biologicals, gene therapy, and personalized medicine. By examining the latest advancements and strategies in these areas, we aim to provide a thorough understanding of the current landscape and future prospects for improving treatment outcomes in these challenging conditions.

Magnetic liposome as a dual-targeting delivery system for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis treatment

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common form of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia, where M2 macrophages play an irreplaceable role in the anti-inflammatory progress. Targeting M2 macrophages and regulating their polarization may be a potential treatment strategy for IPF. Herein, we designed a magnetic liposome based dual-targeting delivery system for the IPF treatment, constructed by mannose-modified magnetic nanoparticles (MAN-MNPs) loaded on the surface of the liposome (MAN-MNPs@LP). The delivery system is capable of responding to a static magnetic field (SMF) and then recognizing in situ of M2 macrophages through the mannose receptor-dependent internalization. Firstly, a series of physical and chemical assays were used to characterize these nanoparticles. Subsequently, magnetic liposomes accumulation in the damaged lung with/without mannose modification and SMF were compared by in vivo imaging system. Finally, the reduction of M2 macrophages and inhibition of their polarization confirmed that the development of IPF was retarded due to the in situ release of encapsulated dexamethasone (Dex) in lungs under the SMF. Further investigation demonstrated that the expression of α-SMA and collagen deposition was reduced. Altogether, this dual-targeting delivery system can effectively deliver Dex into M2 macrophages in the lung, making it a novel and promising therapeutic system for the IPF treatment.

PLGA-Based Micro/Nanoparticles: An Overview of Their Applications in Respiratory Diseases

Respiratory diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are critical areas of medical research, as millions of people are affected worldwide. In fact, more than 9 million deaths worldwide were associated with respiratory diseases in 2016, equivalent to 15% of global deaths, and the prevalence is increasing every year as the population ages. Due to inadequate treatment options, the treatments for many respiratory diseases are limited to relieving symptoms rather than curing the disease. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies for respiratory diseases are urgently needed. Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) micro/nanoparticles (PLGA M/NPs) have good biocompatibility, biodegradability and unique physical and chemical properties, making them one of the most popular and effective drug delivery polymers. In this review, we summarized the synthesis and modification methods of PLGA M/NPs and their applications in the treatment of respiratory diseases (asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis (CF), etc.) and also discussed the research progress and current research status of PLGA M/NPs in respiratory diseases. It was concluded that PLGA M/NPs are the promising drug delivery vehicles for the treatment of respiratory diseases due to their advantages of low toxicity, high bioavailability, high drug loading capacity, plasticity and modifiability. And at the end, we presented an outlook on future research directions, aiming to provide some new ideas for future research directions and hopefully to promote their widespread application in clinical treatment.

Biogenic Selenium Nanoparticles in Biomedical Sciences: Properties, Current Trends, Novel Opportunities and Emerging Challenges in Theranostic Nanomedicine

Selenium is an important dietary supplement and an essential trace element incorporated into selenoproteins with growth-modulating properties and cytotoxic mechanisms of action. However, different compounds of selenium usually possess a narrow nutritional or therapeutic window with a low degree of absorption and delicate safety margins, depending on the dose and the chemical form in which they are provided to the organism. Hence, selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are emerging as a novel therapeutic and diagnostic platform with decreased toxicity and the capacity to enhance the biological properties of Se-based compounds. Consistent with the exciting possibilities offered by nanotechnology in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases, SeNPs are useful tools in current biomedical research with exceptional benefits as potential therapeutics, with enhanced bioavailability, improved targeting, and effectiveness against oxidative stress and inflammation-mediated disorders. In view of the need for developing eco-friendly, inexpensive, simple, and high-throughput biomedical agents that can also ally with theranostic purposes and exhibit negligible side effects, biogenic SeNPs are receiving special attention. The present manuscript aims to be a reference in its kind by providing the readership with a thorough and comprehensive review that emphasizes the current, yet expanding, possibilities offered by biogenic SeNPs in the biomedical field and the promise they hold among selenium-derived products to, eventually, elicit future developments. First, the present review recalls the physiological importance of selenium as an oligo-element and introduces the unique biological, physicochemical, optoelectronic, and catalytic properties of Se nanomaterials. Then, it addresses the significance of nanosizing on pharmacological activity (pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics) and cellular interactions of SeNPs. Importantly, it discusses in detail the role of biosynthesized SeNPs as innovative theranostic agents for personalized nanomedicine-based therapies. Finally, this review explores the role of biogenic SeNPs in the ongoing context of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and presents key prospects in translational nanomedicine.

A scientometrics study of the nanomedicines assisted in respiratory diseases

Nanomedicine has been extensively studied for its versatility and broad-spectrum applications of theranostics in the research of respiratory disease. However, to the best of our knowledge, a scientometrics study based on the scientific knowledge assay of the overall situation on nanomedicine applied in the research of respiratory disease has not been reported so far, which would be of major importance to relevant researchers. To explore and exhibit the research status and developing trend of nanomedicines deployed in basic or clinical research in respiratory disease, the research ecosystem and exciting subareas were profiled based on the massive data mining and visualization from the relevant works reported from 2006 to 2021. Data were collected from the Web of Science database. Data statistics software and bibliometric analysis software were employed to visualize the research trend and the relationship between respiratory diseases and nanomedicines in each representative direction. The cluster analysis and burst detections indicated that the improvement of drug delivery and vaccine developments are the up-to-date key directions in nanomedicines for respiratory disease research and treatments. Furthermore, we emphatically studied four branch areas in this field including COVID-19, nanotube, respiratory syncytial virus, and mRNA vaccine those are selected for in-depth mining and bibliometric coupling analysis. Research trends signify the future focuses will center on preventing respiratory diseases with mRNA vaccines using nanoparticle-based approaches. We anticipate our study will enable researchers to have the panorama and deep insights in this area, thus inspiriting further exploitations especially the nanobiomaterial-based systems for theranostic applications in respiratory disease treatment.

Recent Advances in Nanomaterials for Asthma Treatment

Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease with complex mechanisms, and these patients often encounter difficulties in their treatment course due to the heterogeneity of the disease. Currently, clinical treatments for asthma are mainly based on glucocorticoid-based combination drug therapy; however, glucocorticoid resistance and multiple side effects, as well as the occurrence of poor drug delivery, require the development of more promising treatments. Nanotechnology is an emerging technology that has been extensively researched in the medical field. Several studies have shown that drug delivery systems could significantly improve the targeting, reduce toxicity and improve the bioavailability of drugs. The use of multiple nanoparticle delivery strategies could improve the therapeutic efficacy of drugs compared to traditional delivery methods. Herein, the authors presented the mechanisms of asthma development and current therapeutic methods. Furthermore, the design and synthesis of different types of nanomaterials and micromaterials for asthma therapy are reviewed, including polymetric nanomaterials, solid lipid nanomaterials, cell membranes-based nanomaterials, and metal nanomaterials. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives of these nanomaterials are discussed to provide guidance for further research directions and hopefully promote the clinical application of nanotherapeutics in asthma treatment.

Managing Apoptosis in Lung Diseases using Nano-assisted Drug Delivery System

Several factors exist that limit the efficacy of lung cancer treatment. These may be tumor-specific delivery of therapeutics, airway geometry, humidity, clearance mechanisms, presence of lung diseases, and therapy against tumor cell resistance. Advancements in drug delivery using nanotechnology based multifunctional nanocarriers, have emerged as a viable method for treating lung cancer with more efficacy and fewer adverse effects. This review does a thorough and critical examination of effective nano-enabled approaches for lung cancer treatment, such as nano-assisted drug delivery systems. In addition, to therapeutic effectiveness, researchers have been working to determine several strategies to produce nanotherapeutics by adjusting the size, drug loading, transport, and retention. Personalized lung tumor therapies using sophisticated nano modalities have the potential to provide great therapeutic advantages based on individual unique genetic markers and disease profiles. Overall, this review provides comprehensive information on newer nanotechnological prospects for improving the management of apoptosis in lung cancer.

Nanoparticle-Based Inhalation Therapy for Pulmonary Diseases

The lung is exposed to various pollutants and is the primary site for the onset of various diseases, including infections, allergies, and cancers. One possible treatment approach for such pulmonary diseases involves direct administration of therapeutics to the lung so as to maintain the topical concentration of the drug. Particles with nanoscale diameters tend to reach the pulmonary region. Nanoparticles (NPs) have garnered significant interest for applications in biomedical and pharmaceutical industries because of their unique physicochemical properties and biological activities. In this article, we describe the biological and pharmacological activities of NPs as well as summarize their potential in the formulation of drugs employed to treat pulmonary diseases. Recent advances in the use of NPs in inhalation chemotherapy for the treatment of lung diseases have also been highlighted.

miR‑491‑3p functions as a tumor suppressor in non‑small cell lung cancer by targeting fibroblast growth factor 5

The present study aimed to identify the function of miR-491-3p in regulating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues were collected from 43 patients with NSCLC. A549 and H1299 cells were transfected with microRNA (miR)-491-3p mimic, mimic negative control (NC), miR-491-3p inhibitor, inhibitor NC, pcDNA3.1-FGF5 vector and control vector. Cell counting kit-8 assay and Edu experiments were performed to assess cell viability and proliferation. Matrigel experiment, wound healing assay and flow cytometric analysis were performed to explore cell invasion, migration and apoptosis, respectively. A dual-luciferase reporter experiment was performed to identify the relationship between miR-491-3p and fibroblast growth factor 5 (FGF5). In vivo study was conducted by using nude mice. The miR-491-3p and FGF5 protein expression levels were investigated using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. In NSCLC tumor tissues, miR-491-3p was downregulated and FGF5 was upregulated (P<0.01). Low miR-491-3p expression and high FGF5 mRNA expression was associated with poor outcomes in patients, including advanced TNM stage and lymph node metastasis (P<0.05). upregulation of miR-491-3p suppressed viability, proliferation, invasion and migration of NSCLC cells; however, it promoted apoptosis (P<0.01). FGF5 was a target gene for miR-491-3p. miR-491-3p directly inhibited FGF5 expression. upregulation of FGF5 significantly reversed the inhibitory effects of miR-491-3p on malignant phenotypes of NSCLC cells (P<0.01). miR-491-3p overexpression suppressed the in vivo growth of NSCLC. Thus, it was identified that miR-491-3p functions as a tumor suppressor in NSCLC by directly targeting FGF5.

Antioxidant Biodegradable Covalent Cyclodextrin Frameworks as Particulate Carriers for Inhalation Therapy against Acute Lung Injury

Drug therapies for acute lung injury (ALI) are far from satisfactory, primarily because drugs cannot specifically target the lungs. Direct delivery of drugs to the deep alveolar regions by inhalation administration is crucial for the treatment of ALI. However, conventional inhalable carriers such as lactose and mannitol are generally inactive. Therefore, the use of a novel pharmacologically active carrier for pulmonary delivery may produce synergetic effects in treating ALI. Considering the pathophysiological environment of ALI, which typically featured excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and acute inflammation, we synthesized a novel kind of biodegradable and ROS-sensitive cross-linked covalent cyclodextrin frameworks (OC-COF) with uniform inhalable particle size to treat ALI. OC-COF was devised to incorporate H₂O₂-scavenging peroxalate ester linkages, which could hydrolyze and eliminate ROS generated in inflammatory sites. Ligustrazine (LIG), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory natural compound, was loaded into OC-COF and evaluated as a dry powder inhaler (LIG@OC-COF) in vitro and in vivo, showing favorable aerodynamic properties and prominent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities for the synergistic effects of OC-COF and LIG. In ALI rats, inhalation of LIG@OC-COF with a one-fifth LIG dose significantly alleviated the inflammation, oxidant stress, and lung damage. Western blot analysis demonstrated that LIG@OC-COF protected the lungs by regulating the Nrf2/NF-κB signaling pathway. In summary, this study provides a novel ROS-responsive material as an inhalable particulate carrier for the improved treatment of ALI and other medical conditions.

Advances and applications of monoolein as a novel nanomaterial in mitigating chronic lung diseases

Chronic lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and the recently emerged COVID-19, are a huge threat to human health, and among the leading causes of global morbidity and mortality every year. Despite availability of various conventional therapeutics, many patients remain poorly controlled and have a poor quality of life. Furthermore, the treatment and diagnosis of these diseases are becoming increasingly challenging. In the recent years, the application of nanomedicine has become increasingly popular as a novel strategy for diagnosis, treatment, prevention, as well as follow-up of chronic lung diseases. This is attributed to the ability of nanoscale drug carriers to achieve targeted delivery of therapeutic moieties with specificity to diseased site within the lung, thereby enhancing therapeutic outcomes of conventional therapies whilst minimizing the risks of adverse reactions. For this instance, monoolein is a polar lipid nanomaterial best known for its versatility, thermodynamic stability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. As such, it is commonly employed in liquid crystalline systems for various drug delivery applications. In this review, we present the applications of monoolein as a novel nanomaterial-based strategy for targeted drug delivery with the potential to revolutionize therapeutic approaches in chronic lung diseases.

An mTOR siRNA-Loaded Spermidine/DNA Tetrahedron Nanoplatform with a Synergistic Anti-Inflammatory Effect on Acute Lung Injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is characterized by severe inflammation and damage to the lung air-blood barrier, resulting in respiratory function damage and life-threatening outcomes. Macrophage polarization plays an essential role in the occurrence, development, and outcome of ALI. As drug carriers, self-assembled DNA nanostructures can potentially overcome the drawbacks and limitations of traditional anti-inflammatory agents owing to their nontoxicity, programmability, and excellent structural control at the nanoscale. A small interfering RNA (siRNA) and drug dual therapy nanoplatform are proposed and constructed here to combat ALI. The nanoplatform consists of a spermidine-assembled DNA tetrahedron and four mammalian target of rapamycin siRNAs. Spermidine serves as a mediator of drug delivery vehicle synthesis and a drug that alters macrophage polarization. Both spermidine and siRNA exert anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo by regulating the macrophage phenotype. More importantly, these factors exhibit a synergistic anti-inflammatory effect by promoting macrophage autophagy. For the first time, an anti-inflammatory dual therapy strategy that uses self-assembled DNA nanostructures as nontoxic, programmable delivery vehicles is proposed and demonstrated through this work. Future work on utilizing DNA nanostructures for the treatment of noncancerous diseases such as ALI is highly promising and desirable.

Nano-delivery to the lung - by inhalation or other routes and why nano when micro is largely sufficient?

Respiratory diseases gather a wide range of disorders which are generally difficult to treat, partly due to a poor delivery of drugs to the lung with adequate dose and minimum side effects. With the recent developments of nanotechnology, nano-delivery systems have raised interest. In this review, we detail the main types of nanocarriers that have been developed presenting their respective advantages and limitations. We also discuss the route of administration (systemic versus by inhalation), also considering technical aspects (different types of aerosol devices) with concrete examples of applications. Finally, we propose some perspectives of development in the field such as the nano-in-micro approaches, the emergence of drug vaping to generate airborne carriers in the submicron size range, the development of innovative respiratory models to assess regional aerosol deposition of nanoparticles or the application of nano-delivery to the lung in the treatment of other diseases.

Efficacy and Safety of Nanoadministration in the Treatment of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Is Good to Some Extent: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a nanodrug delivery regimen compared with conventional drug administration for the treatment of lung cancer. Materials and Methods. Studies were retrieved through PubMed, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. Primary and secondary outcome measures, including overall response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and adverse events, were extracted from the retrieved literature and systematically evaluated. Results. Six trials, including 4806 advanced non-small-cell lung cancer patients, were included in this study. Compared with conventional drug administration in the treatment of lung cancer, the nanodrug delivery regimen improved the ORR (risk ratio = 1.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.25–1.63, $p\le 0.001$ ), prolonged PFS (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.76–0.92, $p\le 0.001$ ), and obtained superior OS (HR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.83–0.99, $p\le 0.001$ ). Regarding safety, the incidence of neutropenia, alopecia, sensory neuropathy, myalgia, and arthralgia was lower in the nanoadministration group, but the risk of thrombocytopenia, anaemia, and nausea was increased. Conclusion. Nanodrug administration is safe and effective in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer to some extent.

Volatolomics in healthcare and its advanced detection technology

Various diseases increasingly challenge the health status and life quality of human beings. Volatolome emitted from patients has been considered as a potential family of markers, volatolomics, for diagnosis/screening. There are two fundamental issues of volatolomics in healthcare. On one hand, the solid relationship between the volatolome and specific diseases needs to be clarified and verified. On the other hand, effective methods should be explored for the precise detection of volatolome. Several comprehensive review articles had been published in this field. However, a timely and systematical summary and elaboration is still desired. In this review article, the research methodology of volatolomics in healthcare is critically considered and given out, at first. Then, the sets of volatolome according to specific diseases through different body sources and the analytical instruments for their identifications are systematically summarized. Thirdly, the advanced electronic nose and photonic nose technologies for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) detection are well introduced. The existed obstacles and future perspectives are deeply thought and discussed. This article could give a good guidance to researchers in this interdisciplinary field, not only understanding the cutting-edge detection technologies for doctors (medicinal background), but also making reference to clarify the choice of aimed VOCs during the sensor research for chemists, materials scientists, electronics engineers, etc.

Electrospun Nanofibers for Manipulating the Soft Tissue Regeneration

Soft tissue damage is a common clinical problem that affects the lives of a large number of patients all over the world. It is of great importance to develop functional...

Ultrasound-sensitive siRNA-loaded nanobubbles fabrication and antagonism in drug resistance for NSCLC

Due to the lack of safe, effective, and gene-targeted delivery technology. In this study, we have prepared nanobubbles loaded PDLIM5 siRNA (PDLIM5siRNA-NBs) to investigate the transfection efficiency and their antagonism in drug resistance in combination with ultrasound irradiation for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Research results show that the PDLIM5 siRNA are effectively bound to the shell of NBs with a mean diameter of 191.6 ± 0.50 nm and a Zeta potential of 11.8 ± 0.68 mV. And the ultrasonic imaging indicated that the PDLIM5 siRNA NBs maintain the same signals as the microbubbles (SonoVue). Under the optimized conditions of 0.5 W/m² ultrasound intensity and 1 min irradiation duration, the highest transfection efficiency of PC9GR cells was 90.23 ± 1.45%, which resulted in the inhibition of PDLIM5 mRNA and protein expression. More importantly, the anti-tumor effect of fabricated PDLIM5siRNA-NBs with the help of ultrasound irradiation has been demonstrated to significantly inhibit tumor cell growth and promote apoptosis. Therefore, NBs carrying PDLIM5siRNA may have the potential to act as gene vectors combined with ultrasound irradiation to antagonize drug resistance for NSCLC.

Nanomedicine as a promising strategy for the theranostics of infectious diseases

Infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi and their global spread pose a great threat to human health. The 2019 World Health Organization report predicted that infection-related mortality will be similar to cancer mortality by 2050. Particularly, the global cumulative numbers of the recent outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have reached 110.7 million cases and over 2.4 million deaths as of February 23, 2021. Moreover, the crisis of these infectious diseases exposes the many problems of traditional diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, such as time-consuming and unselective detection methods, the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria, serious side effects, and poor drug delivery. There is an urgent need for rapid and sensitive diagnosis as well as high efficacy and low toxicity treatments. The emergence of nanomedicine has provided a promising strategy to greatly enhance detection methods and drug treatment efficacy. Owing to their unique optical, magnetic, and electrical properties, nanoparticles (NPs) have great potential for the fast and selective detection of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. NPs exhibit remarkable antibacterial activity by releasing reactive oxygen species and metal ions, exerting photothermal effects, and causing destruction of the cell membrane. Nano-based delivery systems can further improve drug permeability, reduce the side effects of drugs, and prolong systemic circulation time and drug half-life. Moreover, effective drugs against COVID-19 are still lacking. Recently, nanomedicine has shown great potential to accelerate the development of safe and novel anti-COVID-19 drugs. This article reviews the fundamental mechanisms and the latest developments in the treatment and diagnosis of bacteria, viruses, and fungi and discusses the challenges and perspectives in the application of nanomedicine.

Hepcidin Upregulation in Lung Cancer: A Potential Therapeutic Target Associated With Immune Infiltration

Lung cancer has the highest death rate among cancers globally. Hepcidin is a fascinating regulator of iron metabolism; however, the prognostic value of hepcidin and its correlation with immune cell infiltration in lung cancer remain unclear. Here, we comprehensively clarified the prognostic value and potential function of hepcidin in lung cancer. Hepcidin expression was significantly increased in lung cancer. High hepcidin expression was associated with sex, age, metastasis, and pathological stage and significantly predicted an unfavorable prognosis in lung cancer patients. Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) results suggested that hepcidin is involved in the immune response. Furthermore, hepcidin expression was positively correlated with the infiltration levels of immune cells and the expression of diverse immune cell marker sets. Importantly, hepcidin may affect prognosis partially by regulating immune infiltration in lung cancer patients. Hepcidin may serve as a candidate prognostic biomarker for determining prognosis associated with immune infiltration in lung cancer.