Archaeosome: as new drug carrier for delivery of Paclitaxel to breast cancer

Doxorubicin loaded thermostable nanoarchaeosomes: a next-generation drug carrier for breast cancer therapeutics

Breast cancer has a poor prognosis due to the toxic side effects associated with high doses of chemotherapy. Liposomal drug encapsulation has resulted in clinical success in enhancing chemotherapy tolerability. However, the formulation faces severe limitations with a lack of colloidal stability, reduced drug efficiency, and difficulties in storage conditions. Nanoarchaeosomes (NA) are a new generation of highly stable nanovesicles composed of the natural ether lipids extracted from archaea. In our study, we synthesized and characterized the NA, evaluated their colloidal stability, drug release potential, and anticancer efficacy. Transmission electron microscopy images have shown that the NA prepared from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Aeropyrum pernix K1 was in the size range of 61 ± 3 nm. The dynamic light scattering result has confirmed that the NA were stable at acidic pH (pH 4) and high temperature (70 °C). The NA exhibited excellent colloidal stability for 50 days with storage conditions at room temperature. The cell viability results have shown that the pure NA did not induce cytotoxicity in NIH 3T3 fibroblast cells and are biocompatible. Then NA were loaded with doxorubicin (NAD), and FTIR and UV-vis spectroscopy results have confirmed high drug loading efficiency of 97 ± 1% with sustained drug release for 48 h. The in vitro cytotoxicity studies in MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines showed that NAD induced cytotoxicity at less than 10 nM concentration. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) results confirmed that NAD induced late apoptosis in nearly 92% of MCF-7 cells and necrosis in the remaining cells with cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. Our results confirmed that the NA could be a potential next-generation carrier with excellent stability, high drug loading efficiency, sustained drug release ability, and increased therapeutic efficacy, thus reducing the side effects of conventional drugs.

A New Co(II)-coordination Polymer: Fluorescence Performances, Loaded with Paclitaxel-hydrogel on Breast Cancer and Molecular Docking Study

In the current context of the increasing incidence of breast cancer, we aim to develop an efficient drug carrier for breast cancer by constructing an innovative complex consisting of a metal-organic framework (MOF) and a hydrogel. The aim of this initiative is to provide new ideas and tools for breast cancer treatment strategies through scientific research, so as to address the current challenges in breast cancer treatment. In the present study, by employment of a new Co(II)-based coordination polymer with the chemical formula of [Co(H2O)(CH3OH)L]n (1) (H2L = 5-(1 H-tetrazol-5-yl)nicotinic acid) was solvothermally synthesized by reaction of Co(NO3)2·6H2O a mixed solvent of MeOH and water. The characteristics of ligand-based absorption and emission, as unveiled by ultraviolet and fluorescence spectroscopy tests, offer insights into the distinctive electronic transitions and structural features originating from the ligand in compound 1. Using natural polysaccharide hyaluronic acid (HA) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) as raw materials, HA/CMCS hydrogels were successfully prepared by chemical method and their internal morphology was studied by scanning electron microscopy. Using paclitaxel as a drug model, we further designed and synthesized a novel metal gel particle-loaded paclitaxel drug and evaluated its inhibitory effect on breast cancer cells. Finally, the hypothesized interactions between the complex and the receptor have been confirmed through molecular docking simulation, and multiple polar interactions have been verified, which further proves the potential anti-cancer capability and excellent bioactivity. Based on this, this composite material prepared from a novel Co(II)-coordinated polymer with paclitaxel hydrogel could provide a useful pathway for the identification and treatment of breast cancer.

Archaeosomes: New Generation of Liposomes Based on Archaeal Lipids for Drug Delivery and Biomedical Applications

Archaeosomes are a new generation of stable liposomes composed of natural ether lipids extracted from archaea, or synthetic archaeal lipids. Archaea constitute a domain of single-celled microorganisms that are structurally similar to but evolutionarily distinct from bacteria. They synthesize unique membrane lipids with isoprenoid hydrocarbon side chains attached via an ether linkage to the glycerol-phosphate backbone. Compared to the ester linkages found in the lipids of Eukarya and bacteria, the ether linkages in archaeal lipids are more stable in various environmental conditions such as high/low temperatures, acidic or alkaline pH, bile salts, and enzymatic hydrolysis. This feature has intrigued scientists to use archaeal lipids to prepare archaeosomes with superior physicochemical stability and utilize them as effective carriers to deliver various cargos of biomedical importance such as drugs, proteins, peptides, genes, and antioxidants to the target site. Archaeosomes carrying antigens and/or adjuvants are also proven to be better candidates for stimulating antigen-specific, humoral, and cell-mediated immune responses, which broadens their scope in vaccine delivery. These properties associated with excellent biocompatibility and a safety profile provide numerous advantages to the archaeosomes to function as a versatile delivery system. This mini-review will provide an overview of the unique features of archaeal lipids, preparation and characterization of archaeosomes, and emphasize the prospects related to drug delivery and other biomedical applications.

Adjuvants: Engineering Protective Immune Responses in Human and Veterinary Vaccines

Adjuvants are key components of many vaccines, used to enhance the level and breadth of the immune response to a target antigen, thereby enhancing protection from the associated disease. In recent years, advances in our understanding of the innate and adaptive immune systems have allowed for the development of a number of novel adjuvants with differing mechanisms of action. Herein, we review adjuvants currently approved for human and veterinary use, describing their use and proposed mechanisms of action. In addition, we will discuss additional promising adjuvants currently undergoing preclinical and/or clinical testing.

Lipid nanovesicles for biomedical applications: 'What is in a name'?

Vesicles, generally defined as self-assembled structures formed by single or multiple concentric bilayers that surround an aqueous core, have been widely used for biomedical applications. They can either occur naturally (e.g. exosomes) or be produced artificially and range from the micrometric scale to the nanoscale. One the most well-known vesicle is the liposome, largely employed as a drug delivery nanocarrier. Liposomes have been modified along the years to improve physicochemical and biological features, resulting in long-circulating, ligand-targeted and stimuli-responsive liposomes, among others. In this process, new nomenclatures were reported in an extensive literature. In many instances, the new names suggest the emergence of a new nanocarrier, which have caused confusion as to whether the vesicles are indeed new entities or could simply be considered modified liposomes. Herein, we discussed the extensive nomenclature of vesicles based on the suffix "some" that are employed for drug delivery and composed of various types and proportions of lipids and others amphiphilic compounds. New names have most often been selected based on changes of vesicle lipid composition, but the payload, structural complexity (e.g. multicompartment) and new/improved proprieties (e.g. elasticity) have also inspired new vesicle names. Based on this discussion, we suggested a rational classification for vesicles.

In vivo Glioblastoma Therapy Using Targeted Liposomal Cisplatin

Background

Drug delivery systems have demonstrated promising results to cross blood–brain barrier (BBB) and deliver the loaded therapeutics to the brain tumor. This study aims to utilize the transferrin receptor (TR)-targeted liposomal cisplatin (Cispt) for transporting Cispt across the BBB and deliver Cispt to the brain tumor.

Methods

Targeted pegylated liposomal cisplatin (TPL-Cispt) was synthesized using reverse phase evaporation method and thiolated OX26 monoclonal antibody. The formulation was characterized in terms of size, size distribution, zeta potential, drug encapsulation and loading efficiencies, bioactivity, drug release profile, stability and cellular uptake using dynamic light scattering, flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), ELISA, dialysis membrane, and fluorescence assay. Next, the potency of the formulation to increase the therapeutic effects of Cispt and decrease its toxicity effects was evaluated in the brain tumor-bearing rats through measuring the mean survival time (MST), blood factors and histopathological studies.

Results

The results showed that TPL-Cispt with a size of 157±8 nm and drug encapsulation efficiency of 24%±1.22 was synthesized, that was biologically active and released Cispt in a slow-controlled manner. The formulation compared to Cispt-loaded PEGylated liposome nanoparticles (PL-Cispt) caused an increase in the cellular uptake by 1.43-fold, as well as an increase in the MST of the brain tumor-bearing rats by 1.7-fold compared to the PL-Cispt (P<0.001). TPL-Cispt was potent enough to cause a significant decrease in Cispt toxicity effects (P<0.001).

Conclusion

Overall, the results suggest that targeting the Cispt-loaded PEGylated liposome is a promising approach to develop formulation with enhanced efficacy and reduced toxicity for the treatment of brain tumor.

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles: synthesis methods and their therapeutic use-recent advances

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) are a particular example of innovative nanomaterials for the development of drug delivery systems. MSNPs have recently received more attention for biological and pharmaceutical applications due to their capability to deliver therapeutic agents. Due to their unique structure, they can function as an effective carrier for the delivery of therapeutic agents to mitigate diseases progress, reduce inflammatory responses and consequently improve cancer treatment. The potency of MSNPs for the diagnosis and management of various diseases has been studied. This literature review will take an in-depth look into the properties of various types of MSNPs (e.g. shape, particle and pore size, surface area, pore volume and surface functionalisation), and discuss their characteristics, in terms of cellular uptake, drug delivery and release. MSNPs will then be discussed in terms of their therapeutic applications (passive and active tumour targeting, theranostics, biosensing and immunostimulative), biocompatibility and safety issues. Also, emerging trends and expected future advancements of this carrier will be provided.

Preparation, Characterization, and Evaluation of Cisplatin-Loaded Polybutylcyanoacrylate Nanoparticles with Improved In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Activities

This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of the cisplatin encapsulated into polybutylcyanoacrylate (PBCA) nanoparticles for the treatment of kidney cancer. The nanoformulation was successfully developed using the miniemulsion polymerization method and characterized in terms of size, size distribution, drug loading and encapsulation efficiencies, drug release behavior, in vitro cytotoxicity effects, in vivo toxicity, and therapeutic effects. Cisplatin-loaded PBCA nanoparticles were confirmed to be in nanoscale with the drug entrapment efficiency of 23% and controlled drug release profile, in which only 9% of the loaded drug was released after 48 h. The nanoparticles caused an increase in the cytotoxicity effects of cisplatin against renal cell adenocarcinoma cells (ACHN) (2.3-fold) and considerably decreased blood urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations when compared to the standard cisplatin (1.6-fold and 1.5-fold, respectively). The nanoformulation also caused an increase in the therapeutic effects of cisplatin by 1.8-fold, in which a reduction in the mean tumor size was seen (3.5 mm vs. 6.5 mm) when compared to the standard cisplatin receiver rats. Overall, cisplatin-loaded PBCA nanoparticles can be considered as a promising drug candidate for the treatment of kidney cancer due to its potency to reduce the side effects of cisplatin and its toxicity and therapeutic effects on cancer-bearing Wistar rats.

Enhanced Efficacy of PEGylated Liposomal Cisplatin: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation

This study aims to evaluate the potency of cisplatin (Cispt)-loaded liposome (LCispt) and PEGylated liposome (PLCispt) as therapeutic nanoformulations in the treatment of bladder cancer (BC). Cispt was loaded into liposomes using reverse-phase evaporation method, and the formulations were characterized using dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, dialysis membrane, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) methods. The results showed that the particles were formed in spherical monodispersed shapes with a nanoscale size (221–274 nm) and controlled drug release profile. The cytotoxicity effects of LCispt and PLCispt were assessed in an in vitro environment, and the results demonstrated that PLCispt caused a 2.4- and 1.9-fold increase in the cytotoxicity effects of Cispt after 24 and 48 h, respectively. The therapeutic and toxicity effects of the formulations were also assessed on BC-bearing rats. The results showed that PLCispt caused a 4.8-fold increase in the drug efficacy (tumor volume of 11 ± 0.5 and 2.3 ± 0.1 mm³ in Cispt and PLCispt receiver rats, respectively) and a 3.3-fold decrease in the toxicity effects of the drug (bodyweight gains of 3% and 10% in Cispt and PLCispt receiver rats, respectively). The results of toxicity were also confirmed by histopathological studies. Overall, this study suggests that the PEGylation of LCispt is a promising approach to achieve a nanoformulation with enhanced anticancer effects and reduced toxicity compared to Cispt for the treatment of BC.

Lipid-Based Nanoparticles: Application and Recent Advances in Cancer Treatment

Many therapeutically active molecules are non-soluble in aqueous systems, chemically and biologically fragile or present severe side effects. Lipid-based nanoparticle (LBNP) systems represent one of the most promising colloidal carriers for bioactive organic molecules. Their current application in oncology has revolutionized cancer treatment by improving the antitumor activity of several chemotherapeutic agents. LBNPs advantages include high temporal and thermal stability, high loading capacity, ease of preparation, low production costs, and large-scale industrial production since they can be prepared from natural sources. Moreover, the association of chemotherapeutic agents with lipid nanoparticles reduces active therapeutic dose and toxicity, decreases drug resistance and increases drug levels in tumor tissue by decreasing them in healthy tissue. LBNPs have been extensively assayed in in vitro cancer therapy but also in vivo, with promising results in some clinical trials. This review summarizes the types of LBNPs that have been developed in recent years and the main results when applied in cancer treatment, including essential assays in patients.

Biotechnology of extremely thermophilic archaea

Although the extremely thermophilic archaea (Topt ≥ 70°C) may be the most primitive extant forms of life, they have been studied to a limited extent relative to mesophilic microorganisms. Many of these organisms have unique biochemical and physiological characteristics with important biotechnological implications. These include methanogens that generate methane, fermentative anaerobes that produce hydrogen gas with high efficiency, and acidophiles that can mobilize base, precious and strategic metals from mineral ores. Extremely thermophilic archaea have also been a valuable source of thermoactive, thermostable biocatalysts, but their use as cellular systems has been limited because of the general lack of facile genetics tools. This situation has changed recently, however, thereby providing an important avenue for understanding their metabolic and physiological details and also opening up opportunities for metabolic engineering efforts. Along these lines, extremely thermophilic archaea have recently been engineered to produce a variety of alcohols and industrial chemicals, in some cases incorporating CO2 into the final product. There are barriers and challenges to these organisms reaching their full potential as industrial microorganisms but, if these can be overcome, a new dimension for biotechnology will be forthcoming that strategically exploits biology at high temperatures.

An Overview of Nanotechnology in Food Science: Preparative Methods, Practical Applications, and Safety

As the researches to utilize nanotechnology in food science are advanced, applications of nanotechnology in various fields of the food industry have increased. Nanotechnology can be applied to the food industry for production, processing, storage, and quality control of foods. Nanomaterials, unlike conventional microscale materials, having novel characteristics can improve sensory quality of foods by imparting novel texture, color, and appearance. Nanotechnology has been used to design nanosensors for detection of harmful components in foods and a smart packaging system enabling to recognize food contamination very rapidly and sensitively. Nanoencapsulation is the most significant technology in food science, especially for bioactive compounds and flavors. Targeted delivery systems designed with nanoencapsulation can enhance bioavailability of bioactive compounds after oral administration. In addition, nanoencapsulation enables to control the release of flavors at the desired time and to protect the degradation of flavors during processing and storage. In this review, current applications of nanotechnology in food science including flavor control, enhancement of bioavailability of bioactive compounds, and detection of deleterious substances in foods are presented. Furthermore, this article overviews classification, preparative methods, and safety issues of nanomaterials for food science. This review will be of help to provide comprehensive information for newcomers utilizing nanotechnology to the food sector.