Co-delivery of vincristine and quercetin by nanocarriers for lymphoma combination chemotherapy

Sialic Acid-Modified NIR-II Fluorophore with Enhanced Brightness and Photoconversion Capability for Targeted Lymphoma Phototheranostics

Lymphoma is a malignant cancer characterized by a rapidly increasing incidence, complex etiology, and lack of obvious early symptoms. Efficient theranostics of lymphoma is of great significance in improving patient outcomes, empowering informed decision-making, and driving medical innovation. Herein, we developed a multifunctional nanoplatform for precise optical imaging and therapy of lymphoma based on a new photosensitizer (1-oxo-1H-benzoo[de]anthracene-2,3-dicarbonitrile-triphenylamine (OBADC-TPA)). OBADC-TPA is a donor-acceptor (D-A) molecule characterized by a novel small coplanar and strong electron-withdrawing acceptor skeleton, while the OBADC moiety facilitates strong intramolecular charge transfer. OBADC-TPA-based nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared through encapsulation with an amphiphilic polymer and subsequent modification with sialic acid (SA). Both in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that NPs-SA possessed good biocompatibility, effective tumor accumulation, high photoacoustic (PA) contrast, bright second near-infrared (NIR-II) fluorescence emission, and efficient photothermal/photodynamic conversion capabilities, which can serve as a multifunctional nanocomposite for targeted PA/NIR-II fluorescence imaging-guided synergistic type I/II photodynamic and photothermal therapy (PDT/PTT) of lymphoma. This work not only provides a new NIR-II fluorophore with a novel acceptor moiety but also offers a new, accurate, and effective approach for the targeted diagnosis and treatment of lymphoma, holding promising prospects for clinical application.

Targeting CDK1 and copper homeostasis in breast cancer via a nanopolymer drug delivery system

The prevalence of breast cancer (BRCA) is notable in the female population, being a commonly diagnosed malignancy, where the management of copper levels is crucial for treatment success. This research aims to explore the influence of copper homeostasis on BRCA therapy, with a specific focus on the role of Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 1 (CDK1) and its relationship to copper regulation. A novel thermosensitive hydrogel incorporating nanoparticles (NPs) was engineered to synergize with the chemotherapy drug vincristine (VCR) in inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. Through a comprehensive approach involving bioinformatics analyses, in vitro experiments, and in vivo models, the study identified CDK1 as a significant factor in BRCA progression under copper homeostasis. MBVP-Gel, a novel thermosensitive hydrogel incorporating NPs, was developed to enhance the delivery of chemotherapy drugs and regulate copper homeostasis in breast cancer treatment. The MBVP-Gel, formulated with copper chelation and VCR NPs, effectively suppressed CDK1 expression, thereby restraining BRCA cell growth and metastasis while enhancing the therapeutic impact of VCR. This investigation offers fresh insights and experimental validation on the interaction between copper homeostasis and BRCA, providing a valuable foundation for refining future treatment strategies. These findings underscore the potential advantages of targeting copper homeostasis and CDK1 in enhancing BRCA therapy, setting the stage for individualized interventions and improved patient consequences.

Phytocompounds and Nanoformulations for Anticancer Therapy: A Review

Cancer is a complex disease that affects millions of people and remains a major public health problem worldwide. Conventional cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy, have limited achievements and multiple drawbacks, among which are healthy tissue damage and multidrug-resistant phenotype onset. Increasing evidence shows that many plants' natural products, as well as their bioactive compounds, have promising anticancer activity and exhibit minimal toxicity compared to conventional anticancer drugs. However, their widespread use in cancer therapy is severely restricted by limitations in terms of their water solubility, absorption, lack of stability, bioavailability, and selective targeting. The use of nanoformulations for plants' natural product transportation and delivery could be helpful in overcoming these limitations, thus enhancing their therapeutic efficacy and providing the basis for improved anticancer treatment strategies. The present review is aimed at providing an update on some phytocompounds (curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, and cannabinoids, among others) and their main nanoformulations showing antitumor activities, both in vitro and in vivo, against such different human cancer types as breast and colorectal cancer, lymphomas, malignant melanoma, glioblastoma multiforme, and osteosarcoma. The intracellular pathways underlying phytocompound anticancer activity and the main advantages of nanoformulation employment are also examined. Finally, this review critically analyzes the research gaps and limitations causing the limited success of phytocompounds' and nanoformulations' clinical translation.

Vincristine-based nanoformulations: a preclinical and clinical studies overview

Vincristine (VCR) is a chemotherapeutic agent obtained from natural alkaloid plant source Catharanthus roseus. VCR has been significantly useful in treatments of lung cancer, lymphocyte-based leukaemia, glioblastomas and acute myeloid leukaemia. VCR attaches to tubulin fibrils and prevents filament polymerization that permanently led to mitosis inhibition in cancer cells. Clinically, VCR is administered to patients in multidrug combination to reduce adverse drug effects and potential blockage of bone marrow inhibition due to prescribed monotherapy. However, VCR possesses low cancer tissue affinity and at higher dose often led to irreversible neurotoxicity. Conventional VCR injectables are successfully used in clinics, but lack of controlled release, non-specific biodistribution and consequent off-target side effects are still major challenges. Currently, nanotechnological drug delivery systems are being explored for improvement of VCR pharmacokinetic profile and tumour-specific targeting. Various nanomedicine formulations such as liposomes, lipid nanoparticles, and polymeric nanocarriers of VCR have been studied under various in vitro and in vivo models. In this review, we have summarised the chemotherapeutic role of VCR, evaluated the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics and challenges associated with VCR delivery. Moreover, application of VCR in nanomedicine and effect on anticancer efficacy in preclinical and clinical setting are also being discussed.

Application of Nanoparticles for Efficient Delivery of Quercetin in Cancer Cells

Quercetin (Qu, 3,5,7,3', 4'-pentahydroxyflavanone) is a natural polyphenol compound abundantly found in health food or plant-based products. In recent decades, Qu has gained significant attention in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutic industries owning to its wide beneficial therapeutic properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. Despite the favorable roles of Qu in cancer therapy due to its numerous impacts on the cell signaling axis, its poor chemical stability and bioavailability, low aqueous solubility as well as short biological half-life have limited its clinical application. Recently, drug delivery systems based on nanotechnology have been developed to overcome such limitations and enhance the Qu biodistribution following administration. Several investigations have indicated that the nano-formulation of Qu enjoys more remarkable anticancer effects than its free form. Furthermore, incorporating Qu in various nano-delivery systems improved its sustained release and stability, extended its circulation time, enhanced its accumulation at target sites, and increased its therapeutic efficiency. The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive review of the anticancer properties of various Qu nano-formulation to augment their effects on different malignancies. Various targeting strategies for improving Qu delivery, including nanoliposomes, lipids, polymeric, micelle, and inorganic nanoparticle NPs, have been discussed in this review. The results of the current study illustrated that a combination of appropriate nano encapsulation approaches with tumor-oriented targeting delivery might lead to establishing QU nanoparticles that can be a promising technique for cancer treatment.

Recent Advances in Biomedical Nanotechnology Related to Natural Products

Natural product processing via nanotechnology has opened the door to innovative and significant applications in medical fields. On one hand, plants-derived bioactive ingredients such as phenols, pentacyclic triterpenes and flavonoids exhibit significant pharmacological activities, on another hand, most of them are hydrophobic in nature, posing challenges to their use. To overcome this issue, nanoencapsulation technology is employed to encapsulate these lipophilic compounds and enhance their bioavailability. In this regard, various nano-sized vehicles, including degradable functional polymer organic compounds, mesoporous silicon or carbon materials, offer superior stability and retention for bioactive ingredients against decomposition and loss during delivery as well as sustained release. On the other hand, some naturally occurring polymers, lipids and even microorganisms, which constitute a significant portion of Earth's biomass, show promising potential for biomedical applications as well. Through nano-processing, these natural products can be developed into nano-delivery systems with desirable characteristics for encapsulation a wide range of bioactive components and therapeutic agents, facilitating in vivo drug transport. Beyond the presentation of the most recent nanoencapsulation and nano-processing advancements with formulations mainly based on natural products, this review emphasizes the importance of their physicochemical properties at the nanoscale and their potential in disease therapy.

Nanodelivery systems: An efficient and target-specific approach for drug-resistant cancers

BACKGROUND

Cancer treatment is still a global health challenge. Nowadays, chemotherapy is widely applied for treating cancer and reducing its burden. However, its application might be in accordance with various adverse effects by exposing the healthy tissues and multidrug resistance (MDR), leading to disease relapse or metastasis. In addition, due to tumor heterogeneity and the varied pharmacokinetic features of prescribed drugs, combination therapy has only shown modestly improved results in MDR malignancies. Nanotechnology has been explored as a potential tool for cancer treatment, due to the efficiency of nanoparticles to function as a vehicle for drug delivery.

METHODS

With this viewpoint, functionalized nanosystems have been investigated as a potential strategy to overcome drug resistance.

RESULTS

This approach aims to improve the efficacy of anticancer medicines while decreasing their associated side effects through a range of mechanisms, such as bypassing drug efflux, controlling drug release, and disrupting metabolism. This review discusses the MDR mechanisms contributing to therapeutic failure, the most cutting-edge approaches used in nanomedicine to create and assess nanocarriers, and designed nanomedicine to counteract MDR with emphasis on recent developments, their potential, and limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies have shown that nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery confers distinct benefits over traditional pharmaceuticals, including improved biocompatibility, stability, permeability, retention effect, and targeting capabilities.

Dual-drug codelivery nanosystems: An emerging approach for overcoming cancer multidrug resistance

Multidrug resistance (MDR) promotes tumor recurrence and metastasis and heavily reduces anticancer efficiency, which has become a primary reason for the failure of clinical chemotherapy. The mechanisms of MDR are so complex that conventional chemotherapy usually fails to achieve an ideal therapeutic effect and even accelerates the occurrence of MDR. In contrast, the combination of chemotherapy with dual-drug has significant advantages in tumor therapy. A novel dual-drug codelivery nanosystem, which combines dual-drug administration with nanotechnology, can overcome the application limitation of free drugs. Both the characteristics of nanoparticles and the synergistic effect of dual drugs contribute to circumventing various drug-resistant mechanisms in tumor cells. Therefore, developing dual-drug codelivery nanosystems with different multidrug-resistant mechanisms has an important reference value for reversing MDR and enhancing the clinical antitumor effect. In this review, the advantages, principles, and common codelivery nanocarriers in the application of dual-drug codelivery systems are summarized. The molecular mechanisms of MDR and the dual-drug codelivery nanosystems designed based on different mechanisms are mainly introduced. Meanwhile, the development prospects and challenges of codelivery nanosystems are also discussed, which provide guidelines to exploit optimized combined chemotherapy strategies in the future.

The potential anti-cancer effects of quercetin on blood, prostate and lung cancers: An update

Cancer is caused by abnormal proliferation of cells and aberrant recognition of the immune system. According to recent studies, natural products are most likely to be effective at preventing cancer without causing any noticeable complications. Among the bioactive flavonoids found in fruits and vegetables, quercetin is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. This review aims to highlight the potential therapeutic effects of quercetin on some different types of cancers including blood, lung and prostate cancers.

Prostate-specific membrane antigen targeted, glutathione-sensitive nanoparticles loaded with docetaxel and enzalutamide for the delivery to prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common malignant tumor in men. Chemotherapy with docetaxel (DTX) and novel hormonal agents such as enzalutamide (EZL) and abiraterone are the preferred first-line therapeutic regimens. Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is overexpressed on the surface of PCa cells. This study aimed to prepare a PSMA targeted (Glutamate-Urea-Lysine, GUL ligand modified), glutathione (GSH)-sensitive (Cystamine, SS), DTX and EZL co-loaded nanoparticles (GUL-SS DTX/EZL-NPs) to treat PCa. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was conjugated with oleic acid (OA) using a GSH-sensitive ligand: cystamine (PEG-SS-OA). GUL was covalently coupled to PEG-SS-OA to achieve GUL-PEG-SS-OA. GUL-PEG-SS-OA was used to prepare GUL-SS DTX/EZL-NPs. To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo efficiency of the system, human prostate cancer cell lines and PCa cells bearing mice were applied. Single drug-loaded nanoparticle and free drugs systems were utilized for the comparison of the anticancer ability. GUL-SS DTX/EZL-NPs showed a size of 143.7 ± 4.1 nm, with a PDI of 0.162 ± 0.037 and a zeta potential of +29.1 ± 2.4 mV. GUL-SS DTX/EZL-NPs showed high cancer cell uptake of about 70%, as well as higher cell growth inhibition efficiency (a maximum 79% of cells were inhibited after treatment) than single drug-loaded NPs and free drugs. GUL-SS DTX/EZL-NPs showed the most prominent tumor inhibition ability and less systemic toxicity. The novel GUL-SS DTX/EZL-NPs could be used as a promising system for PCa therapy.

Co-encapsulation of flavonoids with anti-cancer drugs: a challenge ahead

Flavonoids have been considered as promising molecules for cancer treatment due to their pleiotropic properties such as anti-carcinogenic, anti-angiogenic or efflux proteins inhibition. However, due to their lipophilic properties and their chemical instability, vectorization seems compulsory to administer flavonoids. Flavonoids have been co-encapsulated with other anti-cancer agents in a broad range of nanocarriers aiming to i) achieve a synergistic/additive effect at the tumor site, ii) delay drug resistance apparition by combining agents with different action mechanisms or iii) administer a lower dose of the anti-cancer drug, reducing its toxicity. However, co-encapsulation could lead to a change in the nanoparticles' diameter and drug-loading, as well as a decrease in their stability during storage. The preparation process should also take into accounts the physico-chemical properties of both the flavonoid and the anti-cancer agent. Moreover, the co-encapsulation could affect the release and activity of each drug. This review aims to study the formulation, preparation and characterization strategies of these co-loaded nanomedicines, as well as their stability. The in vitro assays to predict the nanomedicines' behavior in biological fluids, as well as their in vivo efficacy, are also discussed. A special focus concerns the evaluation of their synergistic effect on tumor treatment.

Co-Encapsulation of l-Asparaginase and Etoposide in Dextran Nanoparticles for Synergistic Effect in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cells

Co-encapsulation of multiple therapeutic drugs in a single nanocarrier has the potential to enable synergistic interactions, increase drug efficacy, and reduce side effects. The enzyme l-asparaginase and the small molecule drug etoposide have a known synergistic effect against selected cancer types. However, both drugs differ significantly in size, molecular weight, and solubility, which often results in challenges when a simultaneous delivery is required. In this study, we present the co-encapsulation of a large hydrophilic enzyme l-asparaginase and the small hydrophobic drug etoposide into a biodegradable, biocompatible, and acid-responsive dextran-based nanoparticle system. These dual drug-loaded nanoparticles show an excellent cellular uptake in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) K562 cells and a stepwise release of the cytotoxic payloads in a pH-dependent manner. In activity tests, the dual drug-loaded formulation has shown a significant effect on cell viability (down to 31%) compared to those incubated only with l-asparaginase (92%) or etoposide (82%) at a particle concentration of 125 μg∙mL^-1. These results show that the simultaneous co-delivery of these two drugs in K562 cells leads to synergistic cytotoxicity, indicating a great potential for the treatment of CML.

Quercetin- and rutin-based nano-formulations for cancer treatment: A systematic review of improved efficacy and molecular mechanisms

BACKGROUND

Natural products, with incredible chemical diversity, have been widely studied for their antitumor potential. Quercetin (QU) and quercetin glycoside (rutin), both polyphenolic flavonoids, stick out amongst the natural products, through various studies. Rutin (RU) and its aglycone (QU) have various biological properties that include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic activities. However, several side effects have restricted the efficacy of these polyphenolic flavonoids, which makes it necessary to use new strategies involving low and pharmacological doses of QU and RU, either alone or in combination with other anticancer drugs.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to present a comprehensive and critical evaluation of the anticancer ability of different nano-formulations of RU and QU for improved treatment of various malignancies.

METHODS

Studies were recognized via systematic searches of ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Scopus databases. Eligibility checks were conducted based upon predefined selection criteria. Ninety articles were included in this study.

RESULTS

There was conclusive evidence for the association between anticancer activity and treatment with RU or QU. Furthermore, studies indicated that nano-formulations of RU and QU have greater anticancer activities in comparison to either agent alone, which leads to increased efficiency for treating cancer.

CONCLUSION

The results of this systematic review demonstrate the anticancer activities of nano-formulations of RU and QU and their molecular mechanisms through preclinical studies. This paper also attempts to contribute to further research by addressing the current limitations/challenges and proposing additional studies to realize the full potential of RU- and QU-based formulations for cancer treatment.

Combined and targeted drugs delivery system for colorectal cancer treatment: Conatumumab decorated, reactive oxygen species sensitive irinotecan prodrug and quercetin co-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers

PURPOSE

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequently diagnosed cancer and this study aimed to develop a conatumumab decorated, irinotecan prodrug and quercetin co-loaded delivery system for combined and targeted colorectal cancer treatment.

METHODS

A conatumumab (C) decorated, irinotecan prodrug (I-p) and quercetin (Q) co-encapsulated NLC (C I-p/Q NLC) was developed. In vitro and in vivo antitumor efficiency of NLC was evaluated on CRC cells and mice xenograft.

RESULTS

The results showed that the HT-29 cells uptake of C I-p/Q NLC was over 70%. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) sensitive irinotecan prodrug formulation showed improved drug release ability in hypoxic conditions. C I-p/Q NLC showed significantly higher cytotoxicity than non-decorated NLC, single drug-loaded NLC and free drugs. In vivo studies in a CRC-bearing model corroborated the capability of nanoparticles for the inhibition of cancer, leading to a reduction of tumor growth without systemic toxicity.

CONCLUSION

The conatumumab decorated, ROS sensitive prodrug contained combination nano-system is a promising platform for CRC therapy.

Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery System for Anticancer Active Ingredients from Traditional Chinese Medicines: A Review

The variable dosage forms of most traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) could be disadvantaged by low selectivity, poor biological distribution, limited bioavailability with low efficacy, and some adverse effects. These issues limit the control of clinical pharmacodynamics of the antitumor active components. With the progress of science and technology, many new polymer materials and new technologies have emerged, such as nanotechnology, cyclodextrin inclusion, solid dispersion, microcapsule and microsphere technologies. These new technologies provide a good basis for exploring novel TCM dosage forms for overcoming the shortcomings. The increased numbers of new technologies have been used to study TCM dosage forms with remarkable achievements. In this review paper, we will provide a systematic overview of the new dosage forms of nano-formulations and co-medications in relation to nano-delivery systems in an attempt to provide useful references for practical application of active antitumor ingredients from the TCMs.

Bio-Nanocarriers for Lung Cancer Management: Befriending the Barriers

Lung cancer is a complex thoracic malignancy developing consequential to aberrations in a myriad of molecular and biomolecular signaling pathways. It is one of the most lethal forms of cancers accounting to almost 1.8 million new annual incidences, bearing overall mortality to incidence ratio of 0.87. The dismal prognostic scenario at advanced stages of the disease and metastatic/resistant tumor cell populations stresses the requisite of advanced translational interdisciplinary interventions such as bionanotechnology. This review article deliberates insights and apprehensions on the recent prologue of nanobioengineering and bionanotechnology as an approach for the clinical management of lung cancer. The role of nanobioengineered (bio-nano) tools like bio-nanocarriers and nanobiodevices in secondary prophylaxis, diagnosis, therapeutics, and theranostics for lung cancer management has been discussed. Bioengineered, bioinspired, and biomimetic bio-nanotools of considerate translational value have been reviewed. Perspectives on existent oncostrategies, their critical comparison with bio-nanocarriers, and issues hampering their clinical bench side to bed transformation have also been summarized.

Sequential delivery of dual drugs with nanostructured lipid carriers for improving synergistic tumor treatment effect

To improve synergistic anticancer efficacy and minimize the adverse effects of chemotherapeutic drugs, temozolomide (TMZ) and curcumin (CUR) co-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) were prepared by microemulsion in this study. And the physicochemical properties, drug release behavior, intracellular uptake efficiency, in vitro and in vivo anticancer effects of TMZ/CUR-NLCs were evaluated. TMZ/CUR-NLCs showed enhanced inhibitory effects on glioma cells compared to single drug loaded NLCs, which may be owing to that the quickly released CUR can sensitize the cancer cells to TMZ. The inhibitory mechanism is a combination of S phase cell cycle arrest associated with induced apoptosis. Notably, TMZ/CUR-NLCs can accumulate at brain and tumor sites effectively and perform a significant synergistic anticancer effect in vivo. More importantly, the toxic effects of TMZ/CUR-NLCs on major organs and normal cells at the same therapeutic dosage were not observed. In conclusion, NLCs are promising nanocarriers for delivering dual chemotherapeutic drugs sequentially, showing potentials in the synergistic treatment of tumors while reducing adverse effects both in vitro and in vivo.

Plant-Derived Natural Products in Cancer Research: Extraction, Mechanism of Action, and Drug Formulation

Cancer is one of the main causes of death globally and considered as a major challenge for the public health system. The high toxicity and the lack of selectivity of conventional anticancer therapies make the search for alternative treatments a priority. In this review, we describe the main plant-derived natural products used as anticancer agents. Natural sources, extraction methods, anticancer mechanisms, clinical studies, and pharmaceutical formulation are discussed in this review. Studies covered by this review should provide a solid foundation for researchers and physicians to enhance basic and clinical research on developing alternative anticancer therapies.

Nanotechnological approaches for counteracting multidrug resistance in cancer

Every year, cancer accounts for a vast portion of deaths worldwide. Established clinical protocols are based on chemotherapy, which, however, is not tumor-selective and produces a series of unbearable side effects in healthy tissues. As a consequence, multidrug resistance (MDR) can arise causing metastatic progression and disease relapse. Combination therapy has demonstrated limited responses in the treatment of MDR, mainly due to the different pharmacokinetic properties of administered drugs and to tumor heterogeneity, challenges that still need to be solved in a significant percentage of cancer patients. In this perspective, we briefly discuss the most relevant MDR mechanisms leading to therapy failure and we report the most advanced strategies adopted in the nanomedicine field for the design and evaluation of ad hoc nanocarriers. We present some emerging classes of nanocarriers developed to reverse MDR and discuss recent progress evidencing their limits and promises.

Neferine induces apoptosis by modulating the ROS‑mediated JNK pathway in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Current treatments for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) have limited efficacy. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic targets to effectively manage the disease and boost survival rates is imperative Neferine, a natural product extracted from Nelumbo nucifera (lotus) leaves, has been revealed to inhibit the growth of hepatocarcinoma, breast cancer and lung cancer cells. However, its effect on ESCC is unknown. In the present study, it was revealed that neferine exerted anti‑proliferative effects in ESCC. It was also revealed that it triggered arrest of the G2/M phase and enhanced apoptosis of ESCC cell lines. Moreover, its ability to trigger accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activate the c‑Jun N‑terminal kinase (JNK) pathway was demonstrated. Further study revealed how N‑acetyl cysteine (NAC), a ROS inhibitor, attenuated these effects, demonstrating that ROS and JNK inhibitors mediated a marked reversal of neferine‑triggered cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in ESCC cells. Finally, it was revealed that neferine was involved in the inhibition of Nrf2, an antioxidant factor. Collectively, these findings demonstrated the antitumor effect of neferine in ESCC, through the ROS‑mediated JNK pathway and inhibition of Nrf2, indicating its potential as a target for development of novel and effective therapeutic agents against ESCC.

Affinity of plant viral nanoparticle potato virus X (PVX) towards malignant B cells enables cancer drug delivery

Non-Hodgkin's B cell lymphomas (NHL) include a diverse set of neoplasms that constitute ∼90% of all lymphomas and the largest subset of blood cancers. While chemotherapy is the first line of treatment, the efficacy of contemporary chemotherapies is hampered by dose-limiting toxicities. Partly due to suboptimal dosing, ∼40% of patients exhibit relapsed or refractory disease. Therefore more efficacious drug delivery systems are urgently needed to improve survival of NHL patients. In this study we demonstrate a new drug delivery platform for NHL based on the plant virus Potato virus X (PVX). We observed a binding affinity of PVX towards malignant B cells. In a metastatic mouse model of NHL, we show that systemically administered PVX home to tissues harboring malignant B cells. When loaded with the chemotherapy monomethyl auristatin (MMAE), the PVX nanocarrier enables effective delivery of MMAE to human B lymphoma cells in a NHL mouse model leading to inhibition of lymphoma growth in vivo and improved survival. Thus, PVX nanoparticle is a promising drug delivery platform for B cell malignancies.

A review of research progress of antitumor drugs based on tubulin targets

Microtubules exist in all eukaryotic cells and are one of the critical components that make up the cytoskeleton. Microtubules play a crucial role in supporting cell morphology, cell division, and material transport. Tubulin modulators can promote microtubule polymerization or cause microtubule depolymerization. The modulators interfere with the mitosis of cells and inhibit cell proliferation. Tubulin mainly has three binding domains, namely, paclitaxel, vinca and colchicine binding domains, which are the best targets for the development of anticancer drugs. Currently, drugs for tumor therapy have been developed for these three domains. However, due to its narrow therapeutic window, poor selectivity, and susceptibility to drug resistance, it has severely limited clinical applications. The method of combined medication, the change of administration method, the modification of compound structure, and the research and development of new targets have all changed the side effects of tubulin drugs to a certain extent. In this review, we briefly introduce a basic overview of tubulin and the main mechanism of anti-tumor. Secondly, we focus on the application of drugs which developed based on the three domains of tubulin to various cancers in various fields. Finally, we further provide the development progress of tubulin inhibitors currently in clinical trials.

Therapeutic Potential of Quercetin: New Insights and Perspectives for Human Health

Quercetin (Que) and its derivatives are naturally occurring phytochemicals with promising bioactive effects. The antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-Alzheimer's, antiarthritic, cardiovascular, and wound-healing effects of Que have been extensively investigated, as well as its anticancer activity against different cancer cell lines has been recently reported. Que and its derivatives are found predominantly in the Western diet, and people might benefit from their protective effect just by taking them via diets or as a food supplement. Bioavailability-related drug-delivery systems of Que have also been markedly exploited, and Que nanoparticles appear as a promising platform to enhance their bioavailability. The present review aims to provide a brief overview of the therapeutic effects, new insights, and upcoming perspectives of Que.

Nanomedicine - a promising therapy for hematological malignancies

Hematological tumors are a group of diseases defined as the clonal proliferation of blood-forming cells. In recent years, incidences of hematological malignancies have increased. Traditional methods of diagnosing hematological tumors are primarily based on observing morphological features under light microscopy, and molecular diagnostics and immunological indicators are powerful auxiliary diagnostic methods. However, traditional methods cannot efficiently identify tumor markers and limit the efficiency and accuracy of diagnosis. Although treatment methods have been improved continuously, chemotherapy remains a primary technique for the treatment of hematological tumors. Traditional chemotherapy exhibits poor drug selectivity and lacks good biocompatibility and pharmacokinetic properties. The therapeutic effect is not ideal and the risk of toxic side effects is high. The nanosize and surface charge properties of nanodrugs are effective in improving drug delivery efficiency. The high load and rich surface modification methods of nanomaterials provide various possibilities for improving the biocompatibility and pharmacokinetics of drugs, as well as the targeting of drugs. In addition, a nanomedicine loading platform can load multiple drugs simultaneously and design the optimal proportion of combined drug schemes, which can improve the efficacy of drugs and reduce the occurrence of drug resistance. With their unique physical and chemical properties and biological characteristics, the application of nanoparticles in the diagnosis and treatment of hematological tumors has received considerable attention. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the application of various types of nanostructures for the diagnosis and treatment of hematological malignancies, investigate the advantages of nanomedicine compared with the traditional diagnosis and treatment of hematological tumors, and discuss their biological security and application prospects.

Quercetin Loaded Nanoparticles in Targeting Cancer: Recent Development

The spread of metastatic cancer cell is the main cause of death worldwide. Cellular and molecular basis of the action of phytochemicals in the modulation of metastatic cancer highlights the importance of fruits and vegetables. Quercetin is a natural bioflavonoid present in fruits, vegetables, seeds, berries, and tea. The cancer-preventive activity of quercetin is well documented due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic activities. However, poor water solubility and delivery, chemical instability, short half-life, and low-bioavailability of quercetin limit its clinical application in cancer chemoprevention. A better understanding of the molecular mechanism of controlled and regulated drug delivery is essential for the development of novel and effective therapies. To overcome the limitations of accessibility by quercetin, it can be delivered as nanoconjugated quercetin. Nanoconjugated quercetin has attracted much attention due to its controlled drug release, long retention in tumor, enhanced anticancer potential, and promising clinical application. The pharmacological effect of quercetin conjugated nanoparticles typically depends on drug carriers used such as liposomes, silver nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, PLGA (Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid), PLA (poly(D,L-lactic acid)) nanoparticles, polymeric micelles, chitosan nanoparticles, etc. In this review, we described various delivery systems of nanoconjugated quercetin like liposomes, silver nanoparticles, PLGA (Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid), and polymeric micelles including DOX conjugated micelles, metal conjugated micelles, nucleic acid conjugated micelles, and antibody-conjugated micelles on in vitro and in vivo tumor models; as well as validated their potential as promising onco-therapeutic agents in light of recent updates.

Meta-Analysis of Nanoparticle Delivery to Tumors Using a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling and Simulation Approach

Numerous studies have engineered nanoparticles with different physicochemical properties to enhance the delivery efficiency to solid tumors, yet the mean and median delivery efficiencies are only 1.48% and 0.70% of the injected dose (%ID), respectively, according to a study using a nonphysiologically based modeling approach based on published data from 2005 to 2015. In this study, we used physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models to analyze 376 data sets covering a wide range of nanomedicines published from 2005 to 2018 and found mean and median delivery efficiencies at the last sampling time point of 2.23% and 0.76%ID, respectively. Also, the mean and median delivery efficiencies were 2.24% and 0.76%ID at 24 h and were decreased to 1.23% and 0.35%ID at 168 h, respectively, after intravenous administration. While these delivery efficiencies appear to be higher than previous findings, they are still quite low and represent a critical barrier in the clinical translation of nanomedicines. We explored the potential causes of this poor delivery efficiency using the more mechanistic PBPK perspective applied to a subset of gold nanoparticles and found that low delivery efficiency was associated with low distribution and permeability coefficients at the tumor site (P < 0.01). We also demonstrate how PBPK modeling and simulation can be used as an effective tool to investigate tumor delivery efficiency of nanomedicines.

Self-assembled multifunctional nanotheranostics loading GEM for targeted lung cancer therapy

The aim of this study was to prepare a promising drug carrier for treatment of lung cancer. The self-assembly nanoparticles of SDP-GEM/PEI-PEG-anti-EGFR with chemotherapeutic drug of gemcitabine (GEM), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guided- imaging and targeting of anti- Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (anti-EGFR) were designed. The imaging capacity, targeting feasibility and anti-tumor function were evaluated respectively. SDP-GEM/PEI-PEG-anti-EGFR exhibited contrast enhancement under T2 Weight Image (T2WI) and a liner relationship was found between the concentration and relaxation rate of R2 and R2* in vitro. With the targeting of anti-EGFR, the endocytosis of nanoparticles increased significantly, which effectively killed lung cancer cells in vitro, and importantly it can be accurately delivered to tumor site within 3 h in vivo. Prolonged lifetime and smaller tumor volume demonstrated that SDP-GEM/PEI-PEG-anti-EGFR efficiently inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Therefore, SDP-GEM/PEI-PEG-anti-EGFR was an effective and safe drug carrier, which had a great potential application in MRI-guided lung cancer therapy.

Targeted Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Co-Delivery of Sorafenib and Curcumin Using Lactosylated pH-Responsive Nanoparticles

PURPOSE

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cancer worldwide. In the present investigation, sorafenib (SFN) and curcumin (CCM) were co-delivered using pH-sensitive lactosylated nanoparticles (LAC-NPs) for targeted HCC treatment.

METHODS

pH-responsive lactosylated materials were synthesized. SFN and CCM co-delivered, pH-responsive lactosylated nanoparticles (LAC-SFN/CCM-NPs) were self-assembled by using the nanoprecipitation technique. The nanoparticles were characterized in terms of particle size, charge and drug release profile. The anti-cancer effects of the nanoparticles were evaluated in human hepatic carcinoma cells (HepG2) cells and HCC tumor xenograft models.

RESULTS

LAC-SFN/CCM-NPs are spherical particles with light coats on the surface. The size and zeta potential of LAC-SFN/CCM-NPs were 115.5 ± 3.6 nm and -34.6 ± 2.4, respectively. The drug release of LAC-SFN/CCM-NPs in pH 5.5 was more efficient than in pH 7.4. LAC-SFN/CCM-NPs group exhibited the smallest tumor volume (239 ± 14 mm3), and the inhibition rate of LAC-SFN/CCM-NPs was 77.4%.

CONCLUSION

In summary, LAC-SFN/CCM-NPs was proved to be a promising system for targeted HCC therapy.

Pursuing for the better lung cancer therapy effect: Comparison of two different kinds of hyaluronic acid and nitroimidazole co-decorated nanomedicines

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer associated deaths worldwide. Compared with traditional chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), specific targeted therapies are better choices for advanced patients to improve their survival. In this study, we attempted to fabricate Nitroimidazoles (NI) and Hyaluronic acid (HA) co-decorated, cisplatin (DDP) loaded polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) (NI/HA-DDP-PNPs) and lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPNs) (NI/HA-DDP-LPNs) for the facilitated drug delivery at lung tumor regions (hypoxic regions). In vitro cytotoxicity and cellular uptake; In vivo anti-tumor activity and in vivo tissue biodistribution of PNPs and LPNs were evaluated and compared in lung carcinoma cells and xenograft. Hydrodynamic size of NI/HA-DDP-LPNs was 185.6 ± 4.7 nm, which is larger than that of NI/HA-DDP-PNPs (136.7 ± 3.5 nm). The zeta potential of NI/HA-DDP-PNPs (-31.2 ± 2.7 mV) was more negative than NI/HA-DDP-LPNs (-22.3 ± 2.1 mV). The peak plasma concentration (C_max) achieved from NI/HA-DDP-PNPs and NI/HA-DDP-LPNs was 35.2 ± 1.6 and 37.3 ± 1.7 μg/mL. The half-life (T_1/2) of NI/HA-DDP-PNPs and NI/HA-DDP-LPNs was 12.03 ± 0.75 and 11.78 ± 0.89 h. Area Under Curve (AUC) of NI/HA-DDP-PNPs and NI/HA-DDP-LPNs showed no significant difference while greater than other groups. NI/HA-DDP-LPNs exhibited excellent antitumor effect against drug-resistant human lung cancer A549/DDP cells in vitro and in vivo, better than that of NI/HA-DDP-PNPs. Considering that the low toxicity of NI/HA-DDP-LPNs and NI/HA-DDP-PNPs, NI/HA-DDP-LPNs could be a more promising system for lung cancer targeted therapy.

The Antiallodynic Effect of Nefopam on Vincristine-Induced Neuropathy in Mice

Background

Chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain is a disabling condition following cancer treatment. Vincristine has more neurotoxicity than other vinca alkaloid agents. This study evaluated the correlation of different doses of nefopam with antiallodynic effects in a mouse vincristine neuropathy model.

Methods

A peripheral neuropathic mouse model was made by intraperitoneal injection of vincristine (0.1 mg/kg/day; 5-day-on, 2-day-off schedule over 12 days). After the development of allodynia, mice were injected intraperitoneally with 0.9% normal saline (NS group) or various doses (10, 30, 60 mg/kg) of nefopam (Nefopam group). We examined allodynia using von Frey hairs pre-administration and at 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240 mins, and 24 hrs after drug administration. We also measured the neurokinin-1 receptor concentrations in the spinal cord to confirm the antiallodynic effect of nefopam after drug administration.

Results

The peripheral neuropathic mouse model showed prominent mechanical allodynia. Intraperitoneal nefopam produced a clear dose-dependent increase in paw withdrawal threshold compared with pre-administration values and versus the NS group. The concentration of neurokinin-1 receptor was significantly decreased in the Nefopam group (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Intraperitoneally administered nefopam yielded a dose-dependent attenuation of mechanical allodynia and decreased neurokinin-1 receptor concentration, suggesting that the neurokinin-1 receptor is involved in the antiallodynic effects of nefopam in vincristine neuropathy.

Nanodelivery of Natural Antioxidants: An Anti-aging Perspective

The aging process is known to be associated with heightened oxidative stress and related systemic inflammation. Therefore, antioxidant supplementation is regarded as a promising strategy to combat aging and associated pathological conditions. Food-grade antioxidants from plant-derived extracts are the most common ingredients of these supplements. Phyto-bioactive compounds such as curcumin, resveratrol, catechins, quercetin are among the most commonly applied natural compounds used as potential modulators of the free radical-induced cellular damages. The therapeutic potential of these compounds is, however, restricted by their low bioavailability related to poor solubility, stability, and absorbance in gastrointestinal tract. Recently, novel nanotechnology-based systems were developed for therapeutic delivery of natural antioxidants with improved bioavailability and, consequently, efficacy in clinical practice. Such systems have provided many benefits in preclinical research over the conventional preparations, including superior solubility and stability, extended half-life, improved epithelium permeability and bioavailability, enhanced tissue targeting, and minimized side effects. The present review summarizes recent developments in nanodelivery of natural antioxidants and its application to combat pathological conditions associated with oxidative stress.

The Application of Nanotechnology in the Codelivery of Active Constituents of Plants and Chemotherapeutics for Overcoming Physiological Barriers during Antitumor Treatment

Antitumor therapy using a combination of drugs has shown increased clinical efficacy. Active constituents derived from plants can offer several advantages, such as high efficiacy, low toxicity, extensive effects, and multiple targets. At present, the combination of plants' active constituents and chemotherapeutic drugs has attracted increased attention. Nanodrug delivery systems (NDDSs) have been widely used in tumor-targeted therapy because of their efficacy of delivering antitumor drugs. The in vivo process of tumor-targeted NDDSs has several steps. They include blood circulation, tumor accumulation and penetration, target cell internalization and uptake, and drug release and drug response. In each step, NDDSs encounter multiple barriers that prevent their effective delivery to target sites. Studies have been performed to find alternative strategies to overcome these barriers. We reviewed the recent progress of codelivery of active constituents of plants and chemotherapeutics using NDDSs. Progress into transversing the physiological barriers for more effective in vivo antitumor delivery will be discussed in this review.

Phytofabrication of Nanoparticles as Novel Drugs for Anticancer Applications

Cancer is one of the foremost causes of death globally and also the major stumbling block of increasing life expectancy. Although the primary treatment of surgical resection, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy have greatly reduced the mortality of cancer, the survival rate is still low because of the metastasis of tumor, a range of adverse drug reactions, and drug resistance. For all this, it is relevant to mention that a growing amount of research has shown the anticarcinogenic effect of phytochemicals which can modulate the molecular pathways and cellular events include apoptosis, cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. However, their pharmacological potential is hindered by their low water solubility, low stability, poor absorption, and rapid metabolism. In this scenario, the development of nanotechnology has created novel formulations to maximize the potential use of phytochemicals in anticancer treatment. Nanocarriers can enhance the solubility and stability of phytochemicals, prolong their half-life in blood and even achieve site-targeting delivery. This review summarizes the advances in utilizing nanoparticles in cancer therapy. In particular, we introduce several applications of nanoparticles combined with apigenin, resveratrol, curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, 6-gingerol, and quercetin in cancer treatment.

Nanodelivery of phytobioactive compounds for treating aging-associated disorders

Aging population presents a major challenge for many countries in the world and has made the development of efficient means for healthspan extension a priority task for researchers and clinicians worldwide. Anti-aging properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and cardioprotective activities have been reported for various phytobioactive compounds (PBCs) including resveratrol, quercetin, curcumin, catechin, etc. However, the therapeutic potential of orally administered PBCs is limited by their poor stability, bioavailability, and solubility in the gastrointestinal tract. Recently, innovative nanotechnology-based approaches have been developed to improve the bioactivity of PBCs and enhance their potential in preventing and/or treating age-associated disorders, primarily those caused by aging-related chronic inflammation. PBC-loaded nanoparticles designed for oral administration provide many benefits over conventional formulations, including enhanced stability and solubility, prolonged half-life, improved epithelium permeability and bioavailability, enhanced tissue targeting, and minimized side effects. The present review summarizes recent advances in this rapidly developing research area.

Dietary flavonoids: Nano delivery and nanoparticles for cancer therapy

Application of nanotechnologies to cancer therapy might increase solubility and/or bioavailability of bioactive compounds of natural or synthetic origin and offers other potential benefits in cancer therapy, including selective targeting. In the present review we aim to evaluate in vivo studies on the anticancer activity of nanoparticles (NPs) obtained from food-derived flavonoids. From a systematic search a total of 60 studies were identified. Most of the studies involved the flavanol epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate and the flavonol quercetin, in both delivery and co-delivery (with anti-cancer drugs) systems. Moreover, some studies investigated the effects of other flavonoids, such as anthocyanins aglycones anthocyanidins, flavanones, flavones and isoflavonoids. NPs inhibited tumor growth in both xenograft and chemical-induced animal models of cancerogenesis. Encapsulation improved bioavailability and/or reduced toxicity of both flavonoids and/or co-delivered drugs, such as doxorubicin, docetaxel, paclitaxel, honokiol and vincristine. Moreover, flavonoids have been successfully applied in molecular targeted nanosystems. Selectivity for cancer cells involves pH- and/or reactive oxygen species-mediated mechanisms. Furthermore, flavonoids are good candidates as drug delivery for anticancer drugs in green synthesis systems. In conclusion, although human studies are needed, NPs obtained from food-derived flavonoids have promising anticancer effects in vivo.

Synergistic combination therapy of lung cancer: Cetuximab functionalized nanostructured lipid carriers for the co-delivery of paclitaxel and 5-Demethylnobiletin

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer associated deaths worldwide. Recent efforts have been focused on combinational and nanoparticulate therapies that can efficiently deliver multiple therapeutics. Herein, we reported cetuximab (CET) functionalized, paclitaxel (PTX) and 5-Demethylnobiletin (DMN) co-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) (CET-PTX/DMN-NLCs). The morphology, particle size, zeta potential, stability and drug release were tested. Cellular uptake, cell viability, synergistic effects and in vivo anti-tumor effects were evaluated on human lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549 cells), human embryonic lung cells (MRC-5 cells) and A549 paclitaxel-resistant cells bearing mice models. NLCs had sizes of around 130 nm and zeta potentials of +20-30 mV. The release of drugs from NLCs was relatively fast at the first 12 h and then became slow until completion of sustained release behavior. Cells uptake of CET-PTX/DMN-NLCs (65.8%) was remarkably higher than that of PTX/DMN-NLCs (35.5%) in A549 cells. The combination treatment with PTX and DMN synergistically decreases the viability of cells than the single PTX-NLCs and DMN-NLCs. CET-PTX/DMN-NLCs exhibited the most remarkable in vivo tumor inhibition efficiency, which suspended the tumor growth from 1010.23 to 211.18 mm³ at the end of the study. The highest tumor accumulation amount and low toxicity made CET-PTX/DMN-NLCs a promising system for the synergistic combination therapy of lung cancer.

Nanoparticles for hematologic diseases detection and treatment

Nanotechnology, as an interdisciplinary science, combines engineering, physics, material sciences, and chemistry with the biomedicine knowhow, trying the management of a wide range of diseases. Nanoparticle-based devices holding tumor imaging, targeting and therapy capabilities are formerly under study. Since conventional hematological therapies are sometimes defined by reduced selectivity, low therapeutic efficacy and many side effects, in this review we discuss the potential advantages of the NPs' use in alternative/combined strategies. In the introduction the basic notion of nanomedicine and nanoparticles' classification are described, while in the main text nanodiagnostics, nanotherapeutics and theranostics solutions coming out from the use of a wide-ranging NPs availability are listed and discussed.

Traditional Chinese medicine combined with hepatic targeted drug delivery systems: A new strategy for the treatment of liver diseases

Liver diseases are clinically common and present a substantial public health issue. Many of the currently available drugs for the treatment of liver diseases suffer from limitations that include low hepatic distribution, lack of target effects, poor in vivo stability and adverse effects on other organs. Consequently, conventional treatment of hepatic diseases is ineffective. TCM is commonly used in the treatment of liver diseases worldwide, particularly in China, and has advantages over conventional therapy. HTDDS can be designed to enhance clinical efficacy in the treatment of liver diseases. We have conducted an extensive review of 335 studies reported since 1964. These included about 166 references involving the treatment of liver diseases with TCM (covering active components of TCM, single TCM and Chinese medicine formulas), 169 reports on HTDDS and background studies on liver-related diseases. Here we review the long history of TCM in the treatment of liver diseases.We have also reviewed the status of studies on active components of TCM using nanotechnology-based targeted delivery systems to provide support for further research and development of TCM-based targeted preparations for the treatment of liver disease.

Impaired redox regulation of estrogen metabolizing proteins is important determinant of human breast cancers

Estrogen evidently involves critically in the pathogenesis of gynaecological-cancers. Reports reveal that interference in estrogen-signalling can influence cell-cycle associated regulatory-processes in female reproductive-organs. The major determinants that influence E2-signallings are estrogen-receptor (ER), estrogen-sulfotransferase (SULT1E1), sulfatase (STS), and a formylglycine-generating-enzyme (FGE) which regulates STS activity. The purpose of this mini review was to critically analyze the correlation between oxidative-threats and redox-regulation in the process of estrogen signalling. It is extensively investigated and reported that oxidative-stress is linked to cancer. But no definite mechanism has been explored till date. The adverse effects of oxidative-threat/free-radicals (like genotoxic-effects, gene-regulation, and mitochondrial impairment) have been linked to several diseases like diabetes/cardiovascular-syndrome/stroke and cancer. However, a significant correlation between oxidative-stress and gynaecological-cancers are repeatedly reported without pointing a definite mechanism. For the first time in our study we have investigated the relationship between oxidative stress and the regulation of estrogen via estrogen metabolizing proteins. Reports reveal that ER, SULT1E1, STS and FGE are target-molecules of oxidative-stress and may function differently in oxidizing and reducing environment. In addition, estrogen itself can induce oxidative-stress. This fact necessitates identifying the critical connecting events between oxidative-stress and regulation of estrogen-associated-molecules (ER, SULT1E1, STS, and FGE) that favors tumorigenesis/carcinogenesis. The current review focus is on unique redox-regulation of estrogen and its regulatory-molecules via oxidative-stress. This mechanistic-layout may identify new therapeutic-targets and open further scopes to treat gynecological-cancers more effectively.

Traditional Chinese medicine-combination therapies utilizing nanotechnology-based targeted delivery systems: a new strategy for antitumor treatment

Cancer is a major public health problem, and is now the world’s leading cause of death. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-combination therapy is a new treatment approach and a vital therapeutic strategy for cancer, as it exhibits promising antitumor potential. Nano-targeted drug-delivery systems have remarkable advantages and allow the development of TCM-combination therapies by systematically controlling drug release and delivering drugs to solid tumors. In this review, the anticancer activity of TCM compounds is introduced. The combined use of TCM for antitumor treatment is analyzed and summarized. These combination therapies, using a single nanocarrier system, namely codelivery, are analyzed, issues that require attention are determined, and future perspectives are identified. We carried out a systematic review of >280 studies published in PubMed since 1985 (no patents involved), in order to provide a few basic considerations in terms of the design principles and management of targeted nanotechnology-based TCM-combination therapies.

Triphenylphosphonium and D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate-modified, tanshinone IIA-loaded lipid-polymeric nanocarriers for the targeted therapy of myocardial infarction

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Currently, the best treatment options for myocardial infarction focus on the restoration of blood flow as soon as possible, which include reperfusion therapy, percutaneous coronary intervention, and therapeutic thrombolytic drugs.

Materials and methods

In the present study, we report the development of lipid-polymeric nanocarriers (LPNs) for mitochondria-targeted delivery of tanshinone IIA (TN). D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) was linked to the triphenylphosphonium (TPP) cation. The LPNs were fabricated by nanoprecipitation method. LPNs were evaluated in vitro and in vivo in comparison with free drugs and other similar nanocarriers.

Results

The mean diameter of TN/nanoparticles (NPs) was 89.6 nm, while that of TN/LPNs was 121.3 nm. The zeta potential of TN/NPs and TN/LPNs was −33.6 and −22.3 mV, respectively. Compared with free TN and TN/NPs, TN/LPNs exhibited significantly improved compatibility and therapeutic efficiency. In addition, the in vivo pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and infarct therapy studies in Sprague Dawley rats showed that TPP-TPGS/TN/LPNs had better efficiency than their nonmodified TN/LPNs counterparts in all respects.

Conclusion

These results indicated that the TPP-TPGS/TN/LPNs were promising nanocarriers for efficient delivery of cardiovascular drugs and other therapeutic agents for the treatment of CVDs.

Lactoferrin- and RGD-comodified, temozolomide and vincristine-coloaded nanostructured lipid carriers for gliomatosis cerebri combination therapy

PURPOSE

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common malignant brain tumor originating in the central nervous system in adults. Based on nanotechnology such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and lipid nanoparticles, recent research efforts have been aimed to target drugs to the brain.

METHODS

In this study, lactoferrin- and arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) dual- ligand-comodified, temozolomide and vincristine-coloaded nanostructured lipid carriers (L/RT/V-NLCs) were introduced for GBM combination therapy. The physicochemical properties of L/R-T/V-NLCs such as particle size, zeta potential, and encapsulated efficiency are measured. The drug release profile, cellular uptake, cytotoxicity, tissue distribution, and antitumor activity of L/R-T/V-NLCs are further investigated in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

L/R-T/V-NLCs were stable with nanosize and high drug encapsulation efficiency. L/R-T/V-NLCs exhibited sustained-release behavior, high cellular uptake, high cytotoxicity and synergy effects, increased drug accumulation in the tumor tissue, and obvious tumor inhibition efficiency with low systemic toxicity.

CONCLUSION

L/R-T/V-NLCs could be a promising drug delivery system for glioblastoma chemotherapy.

Lung cancer targeted therapy: Folate and transferrin dual targeted, glutathione responsive nanocarriers for the delivery of cisplatin

To achieve lung cancer targeted therapy, folic acid (FA) and transferrin (Tf) modified cisplatin (CDDP) loaded nanoparticles were applied for the in vitro and in vivo evaluation. The aim of this research was to develop FA modified SS bonds based prodrug of CDDP (namely FA-ss-CDDP) and Tf modified cystamine-oleic acid (Tf-ss-OA). Further, FA-ss-CDDP and Tf-ss-OA were used to prepare NPs, which could target the lung tumor cells through receptor-mediated pathways to increase the efficiency of CDDP. FA and Tf modified CDDP loaded NPs (FA/Tf-CDDP-NPs) were constructed. The physiochemical properties, in vitro drug release profiles, in vitro cytotoxicity, and in vivo biodistribution were investigated. The antitumor effect of self-assembed NPs was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. FA/Tf-CDDP-NPs exhibited remarkably enhanced accumulation in tumor tissue and better tumor inhibition effect in vitro and in vivo. FA/Tf-CDDP-NPs displayed almost complete suppression of tumor growth with no obviously body weight change of the treated mice. The newly constructed NPs could successfully load drugs and showed better efficiency than free drug formula; and FA/TF could function as excellent targeting ligands to improve the cell targeting ability of the NPs. The resulting FA/Tf-CDDP-NPs offered a promising tumor therapy strategy for the treatment of lung cancer.

αvβ3 integrin receptor specific peptide modified, salvianolic acid B and panax notoginsenoside loaded nanomedicine for the combination therapy of acute myocardial ischemia

PURPOSE

To achieve the combination therapy of acute myocardial ischemia, arginyl-glycyl-aspartic acid (RGD) conjugated lipid was synthesized and RGD modified, salvianolic acid B (Sal B) and panax notoginsenoside (PNS) co-loaded lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (RGD-S/P-LPNs) was fabricated an evaluated.

METHODS

RGD was conjugated to distearoyl phosphatidylethanolamine-polyethylene glycol (DSPE-PEG-NH₂) through amide linkage. Lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPNs) were fabricated by nanoprecipitation method. RGD-S/P-LPNs was characterized in terms of morphology, size, charge, drug loading, entrapment, stability, drug release and cytotoxicity in vitro. Cardiac distribution, pharmacokinetics study and infarct therapy effect were evaluated in vivo.

RESULTS

The LPNs are generally spherical in shape with uniform size distribution, have sizes of 100-200nm and zeta potentials range from -30.7∼ -39.8. In vitro release behaviors of drugs loaded LPNs are in a sustained release manner, which does not exhibit obviously cytotoxicity against H9c2 cardiomyocytes. RGD-S/P-LPNs group shows the most significant cardiac distribution and infarct therapy effect in vivo.

CONCLUSION

The results illustrated that RGD modified dual drugs co-loaded LPNs are stable, sustained release carriers. Cardiac distribution, pharmacokinetics, and infarct therapy effect results suggested that the RGD-S/P-LPNs could improve the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of the double drugs.