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Cui J, Yang Z, Ma R, He W, Tao H, Li Y, Zhao Y. Placenta-targeted Treatment Strategies for Preeclampsia and Fetal Growth Restriction: An Opportunity and Major Challenge. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024:10.1007/s12015-024-10739-x. [PMID: 38814409 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10739-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The placenta plays a crucial role in maintaining normal pregnancy. The failure of spiral artery remodeling (SAR) is a key factor leading to placental ischemia and poor perfusion which is strongly associated with obstetric diseases, including preeclampsia (PE) and fetal growth restriction (FGR). Existing interventions for PE and FGR are limited and termination of pregnancy is inevitable when the maternal or fetus condition deteriorates. Considering the safety of the mother and fetus, treatments that may penetrate the placental barrier and harm the fetus are not accepted. Developing targeted treatment strategies for these conditions is urgent and necessary. With the proven efficacy of targeted therapy in treating conditions such as endometrial cancer and trophoblastic tumors, research on placental dysfunction continues to deepen. This article reviews the studies on placenta-targeted treatment and drug delivery strategies, summarizes the characteristics proposes corresponding improvement measures in targeted treatment, provides solutions for existing problems, and makes suggestions for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjian Cui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zejun Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ruilin Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Wencong He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Hui Tao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ya'nan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yin Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China.
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Yu Z, Yu T, Li X, Lin W, Li X, Zhai M, Yin J, Zhao L, Liu X, Zhao B, Duan C, Cheng H, Wang F, Wei Z, Yang Y. Cadmium exposure activates mitophagy through downregulating thyroid hormone receptor/PGC1α signal in preeclampsia. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 276:116259. [PMID: 38581905 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Gestational cadmium exposure increases the risk of preeclampsia. Placenta mitophagy was activated in preeclampsia. The aim of present study was to explore the mechanism of cadmium-induced mitophagy activation and its association with preeclampsia. Mitophagy markers expression levels were detected by quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence and immunochemistry in preeclampsia placenta. JEG3 cells were treated with CdCl2, iopanoic acid (IOP), 3-methyladenine and PGC1α SiRNA to verify mechanism of cadmium-induced mitophagy. Mitophagy marker LC3BII/I and P62 expression were increased and mitochondrial membrane receptor protein TOM20 and FUNDC1 expression were decreased in preeclampsia placenta as compared with that in normotension control. Mitophagy marker LC3BII/I and P62 expression were increased and TOM20 and FUNDC1 expression was decreased in CdCl2-treated JEG3 cells. Meanwhile, mitochondrial biogenesis regulator, PGC1α expression was decreased in preeclampsia and CdCl2-treated JEG3 cells. The expressions of LC3B and P62 were increased and the expressions of TOM20, FUNDC1 and PGC1α were decreased in IOP-treated cell. PGC1α SiRNA transfection led to increased expression of LC3BII/I and P62 and decreased expression of TOM20 and FUNDC1. The expression of sFlt1 was increased in preeclampsia placenta, CdCl2-treated cells, in IOP-treated cells and in PGC1α SiRNA transfected cells. 3-methyladenine treatment protected the increased expression of sFlt1 in CdCl2-treated cells, in IOP-treated cells and in PGC1α SiRNA transfected cells. Meanwhile, co-treatment of cadmium and IOP or PGC1αSiRNA led to a reduce expressions of OPA1, MFN1, MFN2 and FUNDC1 as compared to cadmium-treated, IOP-treated and PGC1α SiRNA-treated cells. These results elucidated that maternal cadmium exposure activated placenta mitophagy through downregulation of thyroid hormone receptor signal mediated decreased expression of PGC1α and was associated with the occurrence of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Tao Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Xuan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Weilong Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Xuemeng Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Muxin Zhai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Jiancai Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Baojing Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Cancan Duan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Huiru Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Fen Wang
- Department of Geriatric Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui25 Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Zhaolian Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicin (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China.
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Gomte SS, Agnihotri TG, Khopade S, Jain A. Exploring the potential of pH-sensitive polymers in targeted drug delivery. JOURNAL OF BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE. POLYMER EDITION 2024; 35:228-268. [PMID: 37927045 DOI: 10.1080/09205063.2023.2279792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
The pH-sensitive polymers have attained significant attention in the arena of targeted drug delivery (TDD) because of their exceptional capability to respond to alteration in pH in various physiological environments. This attribute aids pH-sensitive polymers to act as smart carriers for therapeutic agents, transporting them precisely to target locations while curtailing the release of drugs in off-targeted sites, thereby diminishing side effects. Many pH-responsive polymers in TDD have revealed promising results, with increased therapeutic efficacy and decreased toxic effects. Several pH-sensitive polymers, including, hydroxy-propyl-methyl cellulose, poly (methacrylic acid) (Eudragit series), poly (acrylic acid), and chitosan, have been broadly studied for their myriad applications in the management of various types of diseases. Additionally, the amalgamation of pH-sensitive polymers with, additive manufacturing techniques like 3D printing, has resulted in the progression of novel drug delivery systems that regulate drug release in a controlled manner. Herein, types of pH-sensitive polymers in TDD are systemically reviewed. We have briefly discussed the nanocarriers employed for the delivery of various pH-sensitive polymers in TDD. Finally, miscellaneous applications of pH-sensitive polymers are discussed thoroughly with special attention to the implication of 3D printing in pH-sensitive polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyam Sudhakar Gomte
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Tejas Girish Agnihotri
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Shivani Khopade
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Aakanchha Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
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Carter D, Better M, Abbasi S, Zulfiqar F, Shapiro R, Ensign LM. Nanomedicine for Maternal and Fetal Health. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023:e2303682. [PMID: 37817368 PMCID: PMC11004090 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202303682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Conception, pregnancy, and childbirth are complex processes that affect both mother and fetus. Thus, it is perhaps not surprising that in the United States alone, roughly 11% of women struggle with infertility and 16% of pregnancies involve some sort of complication. This presents a clear need to develop safe and effective treatment options, though the development of therapeutics for use in women's health and particularly in pregnancy is relatively limited. Physiological and biological changes during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy impact biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy, further complicating the process of administration and delivery of therapeutics. In addition to the complex pharmacodynamics, there is also the challenge of overcoming physiological barriers that impact various routes of local and systemic administration, including the blood-follicle barrier and the placenta. Nanomedicine presents a unique opportunity to target and sustain drug delivery to the reproductive tract and other relevant organs in the mother and fetus, as well as improve the safety profile and minimize side effects. Nanomedicine-based approaches have the potential to improve the management and treatment of infertility, obstetric complications, and fetal conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davell Carter
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marina Better
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Saed Abbasi
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Fareeha Zulfiqar
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rachel Shapiro
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Laura M. Ensign
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Biomedical Engineering, Oncology, and Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Fein KC, Arral ML, Kim JS, Newby AN, Whitehead KA. Placental drug transport and fetal exposure during pregnancy is determined by drug molecular size, chemistry, and conformation. J Control Release 2023; 361:29-39. [PMID: 37473809 PMCID: PMC10624237 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Pregnant people are unable to take many prescription and over-the-counter medications because of suspected or known risk to the fetus. This undermedication contributes to the high maternal mortality rate in the United States and detracts from the quality of life of pregnant people. As such, there is an urgent need to develop safe pharmaceutical formulations for use during pregnancy. Most drugs are small molecules that easily cross the placenta, which is the biological barrier that separates the maternal and fetal bloodstreams. One potential approach to preventing fetal drug accumulation is to design drug compounds that are excluded by the placenta; however, there is little understanding of how macromolecular drug properties affect transplacental transport. To address this knowledge gap, we examined the transport behavior of fluorescently-labeled polymers with varying size, conformation, and chemistry. We compared these polymers to unconjugated fluorescein, a small molecule model drug that readily crosses biological barriers. We found that molecular size affected transplacental transport in an in vitro model, BeWo b30 monolayers, as well as in pregnant mice, with larger polymers having lower permeability. In addition to size, polymer chemistry altered behavior, with polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecules permeating the placental barrier to a greater extent than dextrans of equivalent molecular weight. PEG molecules were also more readily taken up into placental cells in vivo. These findings will inform the future development of drug conjugates or other macromolecular medicines that can safely be used during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine C Fein
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America
| | - Mariah L Arral
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America
| | - Julie S Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America
| | - Alexandra N Newby
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America
| | - Kathryn A Whitehead
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America.
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Arafa FM, Said H, Osman D, Rezki N, Aouad MR, Hagar M, Osman M, Elwakil BH, Jaremko M, Tolba MM. Nanoformulation-Based 1,2,3-Triazole Sulfonamides for Anti- Toxoplasma In Vitro Study. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:401. [PMID: 37624339 PMCID: PMC10460005 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8080401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is deemed a successful parasite worldwide with a wide range of hosts. Currently, a combination of pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine serves as the first-line treatment; however, these drugs have serious adverse effects. Therefore, it is imperative to focus on new therapies that produce the desired effect with the lowest possible dose. The designation and synthesis of sulfonamide-1,2,3-triazole hybrids (3a-c) were performed to create hybrid frameworks. The newly synthesized compounds were loaded on chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) to form nanoformulations (3a.CNP, 3b.CNP, 3c.CNP) for further in vitro investigation as an anti-Toxoplasma treatment. The current study demonstrated that all examined compounds were active against T. gondii in vitro relative to the control drug, sulfadiazine. 3c.CNP showed the best impact against T. gondii with the lowest IC50 value of 3.64 µg/mL. Using light microscopy, it was found that Vero cells treated with the three nanoformulae showed remarkable morphological improvement, and tachyzoites were rarely seen in the treated cells. Moreover, scanning and transmission electron microscopic studies confirmed the efficacy of the prepared nanoformulae on the parasites. All of them caused parasite ultrastructural damage and altered morphology, suggesting a cytopathic effect and hence confirming their promising anti-Toxoplasma activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadwa M. Arafa
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21577, Egypt
| | - Heba Said
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Doaa Osman
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Nadjet Rezki
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawarah 30002, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed R. Aouad
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawarah 30002, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Hagar
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21321, Egypt
| | - Mervat Osman
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Bassma H. Elwakil
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences Technology, Pharos University in Alexandria, Alexandria 21526, Egypt
| | - Mariusz Jaremko
- Smart-Health Initiative (SHI) and Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona Mohamed Tolba
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
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Geisler HC, Safford HC, Mitchell MJ. Rational Design of Nanomedicine for Placental Disorders: Birthing a New Era in Women's Reproductive Health. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023:e2300852. [PMID: 37191231 PMCID: PMC10651803 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202300852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is a transient organ that forms during pregnancy and acts as a biological barrier, mediating exchange between maternal and fetal circulation. Placental disorders, such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, placenta accreta spectrum, and gestational trophoblastic disease, originate in dysfunctional placental development during pregnancy and can lead to severe complications for both the mother and fetus. Unfortunately, treatment options for these disorders are severely lacking. Challenges in designing therapeutics for use during pregnancy involve selectively delivering payloads to the placenta while protecting the fetus from potential toxic side effects. Nanomedicine holds great promise in overcoming these barriers; the versatile and modular nature of nanocarriers, including prolonged circulation times, intracellular delivery, and organ-specific targeting, can control how therapeutics interact with the placenta. In this review, nanomedicine strategies are discussed to treat and diagnose placental disorders with an emphasis on understanding the unique pathophysiology behind each of these diseases. Finally, prior study of the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying these placental disorders has revealed novel disease targets. These targets are highlighted here to motivate the rational design of precision nanocarriers to improve therapeutic options for placental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah C. Geisler
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Hannah C. Safford
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Michael J. Mitchell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Penn Institute for RNA Innovation, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Institute for Immunology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19014, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
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8
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Palanki R, Peranteau WH, Mitchell MJ. Drug delivery technologies for fetal, neonatal, and maternal therapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 189:114523. [PMID: 36030020 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Palanki
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; The Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic and Fetal Surgery, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - William H Peranteau
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; The Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic and Fetal Surgery, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Michael J Mitchell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Institute for Immunology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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9
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Vaginal Nanoformulations for the Management of Preterm Birth. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14102019. [PMID: 36297454 PMCID: PMC9611874 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14102019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) is a leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality in the world. In 2020, 1 in 10 infants were born prematurely in the United States. The World Health Organization estimates that a total of 15 million infants are born prematurely every year. Current therapeutic interventions for PTB have had limited replicable success. Recent advancements in the field of nanomedicine have made it possible to utilize the vaginal administration route to effectively and locally deliver drugs to the female reproductive tract. Additionally, studies using murine models have provided important insights about the cervix as a gatekeeper for pregnancy and parturition. With these recent developments, the field of reproductive biology is on the cusp of a paradigm shift in the context of treating PTB. The present review focuses on the complexities associated with treating the condition and novel therapeutics that have produced promising results in preclinical studies.
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Jiang Z, Tang H, Xiong Q, Li M, Dai Y, Zhou Z. Placental cell translocation of folate-conjugated pullulan acetate non-spherical nanoparticles. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2022; 216:112553. [PMID: 35598508 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2022.112553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Due to the adverse effects of free drugs on the fetus, placental-mediated pregnancy complications still lack effective pharmacotherapy. This study aims to construct a non-spherical drug delivery system based on folate-conjugated pullulan acetate (FPA) for placental targeting and translocation. By adjusting the initial solvent system, FPA nanoparticles with different morphologies were prepared using dialysis method without a surfactant. Cytotoxicity and lactate dehydrogenase release assays indicated the good biocompatibility of FPA nanoparticles in BeWo b30 cells. Cellular uptake and in vitro placental barrier transportation studies showed that FPA nanoparticles entered the cells and transported across the cell monolayer, benefiting from the active target effect mediated by the folate receptor. Moreover, non-spherical FPA nanoparticles showed nuclear translocation due to their shape effect. These findings provide a novel aspect in placental-mediated pregnancy treatment and applications in the obstetrics field of drug use during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwen Jiang
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Hongbo Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China.
| | - Qingqing Xiong
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Min Li
- Biomedical Barriers Research Center, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Tianjin 300192, China
| | - Yinmei Dai
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China.
| | - Zhimin Zhou
- Biomedical Barriers Research Center, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Tianjin 300192, China.
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Lederer CW, Koniali L, Buerki-Thurnherr T, Papasavva PL, La Grutta S, Licari A, Staud F, Bonifazi D, Kleanthous M. Catching Them Early: Framework Parameters and Progress for Prenatal and Childhood Application of Advanced Therapies. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14040793. [PMID: 35456627 PMCID: PMC9031205 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14040793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) are medicines for human use based on genes, cells or tissue engineering. After clear successes in adults, the nascent technology now sees increasing pediatric application. For many still untreatable disorders with pre- or perinatal onset, timely intervention is simply indispensable; thus, prenatal and pediatric applications of ATMPs hold great promise for curative treatments. Moreover, for most inherited disorders, early ATMP application may substantially improve efficiency, economy and accessibility compared with application in adults. Vindicating this notion, initial data for cell-based ATMPs show better cell yields, success rates and corrections of disease parameters for younger patients, in addition to reduced overall cell and vector requirements, illustrating that early application may resolve key obstacles to the widespread application of ATMPs for inherited disorders. Here, we provide a selective review of the latest ATMP developments for prenatal, perinatal and pediatric use, with special emphasis on its comparison with ATMPs for adults. Taken together, we provide a perspective on the enormous potential and key framework parameters of clinical prenatal and pediatric ATMP application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carsten W. Lederer
- The Molecular Genetics Thalassemia Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (L.K.); (P.L.P.); (M.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +357-22-392764
| | - Lola Koniali
- The Molecular Genetics Thalassemia Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (L.K.); (P.L.P.); (M.K.)
| | - Tina Buerki-Thurnherr
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland;
| | - Panayiota L. Papasavva
- The Molecular Genetics Thalassemia Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (L.K.); (P.L.P.); (M.K.)
| | - Stefania La Grutta
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, IFT National Research Council, 90146 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Amelia Licari
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Frantisek Staud
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, 50005 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic;
| | - Donato Bonifazi
- Consorzio per Valutazioni Biologiche e Farmacologiche (CVBF) and European Paediatric Translational Research Infrastructure (EPTRI), 70122 Bari, Italy;
| | - Marina Kleanthous
- The Molecular Genetics Thalassemia Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (L.K.); (P.L.P.); (M.K.)
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das Neves J, Ensign L. Advances in drug delivery for women's health: A matter of gender equity. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 182:114132. [PMID: 35090956 PMCID: PMC9844536 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- José das Neves
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; CESPU, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde, Gandra, Portugal.
| | - Laura Ensign
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Departments of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering and Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Departments of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Infectious Diseases, and Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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