Drug delivery based on chitosan, β-cyclodextrin and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose as well as nanocarriers for advanced leukemia treatment

A study on the performance, structure, composition, and release behavior changes of polybutylene adipate terephthalic acid (PBAT) film during food contact

Polybutylene adipate terephthalic acid (PBAT) is an emerging biodegradable material in food packaging. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential hazards it could pose to food safety. In this study, the changes of PBAT films during food contact and the release of small molecules were inestigated by a multiscale approach. On a macro-scale, the surface roughness of the films increased with the reduction in the concentration of food simulants and the increase in contact temperatures, especially after immersion in acidic food environments. On a micro-scale, the crystallinity (Xc) and degradation indexes (DI) of the films increased by 5.7-61.2% and 7.8-48.6%, respectively, which led to a decrease in thermal stability. On a scale approaching the molecular level, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol (2,4-DTBP) was detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) with the highest migration content, and the release behavior of 2,4-DTBP was further investigated by migration kinetics. In addition, terephthalic acid (TPA), a hydrolysis product of PBAT, was detected in acidic food environments by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The results of this study could provide practical guidance and assistance to promote sustainable development in the field of food packaging.

Roles and mechanisms of copper homeostasis and cuproptosis in osteoarticular diseases

Copper is an essential trace element in the human body that is extensively distributed throughout various tissues. The appropriate level of copper is crucial to maintaining the life activities of the human body, and the excess and deficiency of copper can lead to various diseases. The copper levels in the human body are regulated by copper homeostasis, which maintains appropriate levels of copper in tissues and cells by controlling its absorption, transport, and storage. Cuproptosis is a distinct form of cell death induced by the excessive accumulation of intracellular copper. Copper homeostasis and cuproptosis has recently elicited increased attention in the realm of human health. Cuproptosis has emerged as a promising avenue for cancer therapy. Studies concerning osteoarticular diseases have elucidated the intricate interplay among copper homeostasis, cuproptosis, and the onset of osteoarticular diseases. Copper dysregulation and cuproptosis cause abnormal bone and cartilage metabolism, affecting related cells. This phenomenon assumes a critical role in the pathophysiological processes underpinning various osteoarticular diseases, with implications for inflammatory and immune responses. While early Cu-modulating agents have shown promise in clinical settings, additional research and advancements are warranted to enhance their efficacy. In this review, we summarize the effects and potential mechanisms of copper homeostasis and cuproptosis on bone and cartilage, as well as their regulatory roles in the pathological mechanism of osteoarticular diseases (e.g., osteosarcoma (OS), osteoarthritis (OA), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA)). We also discuss the clinical-application prospects of copper-targeting strategy, which may provide new ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of osteoarticular diseases.

Co-Delivery of an Innovative Organoselenium Compound and Paclitaxel by pH-Responsive PCL Nanoparticles to Synergistically Overcome Multidrug Resistance in Cancer

In this study, we designed the association of the organoselenium compound 5'-Seleno-(phenyl)-3'-(ferulic-amido)-thymidine (AFAT-Se), a promising innovative nucleoside analogue, with the antitumor drug paclitaxel, in poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)-based nanoparticles (NPs). The nanoprecipitation method was used, adding the lysine-based surfactant, 77KS, as a pH-responsive adjuvant. The physicochemical properties presented by the proposed NPs were consistent with expectations. The co-nanoencapsulation of the bioactive compounds maintained the antioxidant activity of the association and evidenced greater antiproliferative activity in the resistant/MDR tumor cell line NCI/ADR-RES, both in the monolayer/two-dimensional (2D) and in the spheroid/three-dimensional (3D) assays. Hemocompatibility studies indicated the safety of the nanoformulation, corroborating the ability to spare non-tumor 3T3 cells and human mononuclear cells of peripheral blood (PBMCs) from cytotoxic effects, indicating its selectivity for the cancerous cells. Furthermore, the synergistic antiproliferative effect was found for both the association of free compounds and the co-encapsulated formulation. These findings highlight the antitumor potential of combining these bioactives, and the proposed nanoformulation as a potentially safe and effective strategy to overcome multidrug resistance in cancer therapy.

Wireless Sensing System Based on Biodegradable Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Evaluating Sports and Sleep Respiratory

The rapid growth of the Internet of Things and wearable sensors has led to advancements in monitoring technology in the field of health. One such advancement is the development of wearable respiratory sensors, which offer a new approach to real-time respiratory monitoring compared to traditional methods. However, the energy consumption of these sensors raises concerns about environmental pollution. To address the issue, this study proposes the use of a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) as a sustainable energy source. The electrical conductivity of the TENG is improved by incorporating chitosan and carbon nanotubes, with the added benefit of chitosan's biodegradability reducing negative environmental impact. A wireless intelligent respiratory monitoring system (WIRMS) is then introduced, which utilizes a degradable triboelectric nanogenerator for real-time respiratory monitoring, diagnosis, and prevention of obstructive respiratory diseases. WIRMS offers stable and highly accurate respiratory information monitoring, while enabling real-time and nondestructive transmission of information. In addition, machine learning technology is used for sleep respiration state analysis. The potential applications of WIRMS extend to wearables, medical monitoring and sports monitoring, thereby presenting innovative ideas for modern medical and sports monitoring.

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

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

Au nanozyme-based multifunctional hydrogel for inflammation visible monitoring and treatment

Chronic inflammation can delay wound healing, eventually leading to tissue necrosis and even cancer. Developing real-time intelligent inflammation monitoring and treatment to achieve effective wound management is important to promote wound healing. In this study, a smart multifunctional hydrogel (Hydrogel@Au NCs&DG) was proposed to monitor and treat the wound inflammation. It was prepared by mixing 3-carboxy-phenylboronic acid modified chitosan (CS-cPBA), β-glycerophosphate (β-GP), albumin-protected gold nanoclusters (BSA-Au NCs), and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate (DG) about 10 s. In this hydrogel, CS-cPBA and β-GP are crosslinked together by boric acid ester bond and hydrogen bond to form the main hydrogel network, endowing the hydrogel with self-healing and injectable properties to adapt irregular wounds. Importantly, the as-prepared hydrogel with good biocompatibility and excellent adhesion property could directly determine the H2O2 to monitor the wound microenvironment by visible fluorescence change of BSA-Au NCs and then guide the frequency of dressing change to eliminate inflammation. The results demonstrated that the as-prepared smart hydrogel could be expected to serve as an intelligent wound dressing to promote inflammation-infected wound healing.

Nanotechnology development in surgical applications: recent trends and developments

This paper gives a detailed analysis of nanotechnology's rising involvement in numerous surgical fields. We investigate the use of nanotechnology in orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, surgical oncology, heart surgery, vascular surgery, ophthalmic surgery, thoracic surgery, and minimally invasive surgery. The paper details how nanotechnology helps with arthroplasty, chondrogenesis, tissue regeneration, wound healing, and more. It also discusses the employment of nanomaterials in implant surfaces, bone grafting, and breast implants, among other things. The article also explores various nanotechnology uses, including stem cell-incorporated nano scaffolds, nano-surgery, hemostasis, nerve healing, nanorobots, and diagnostic applications. The ethical and safety implications of using nanotechnology in surgery are also addressed. The future possibilities of nanotechnology are investigated, pointing to a possible route for improved patient outcomes. The essay finishes with a comment on nanotechnology's transformational influence in surgical applications and its promise for future breakthroughs.

Ceftazidime-assisted synthesis of ultrasmall chitosan nanoparticles for biofilm penetration and eradication of Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) infections present a grave threat to immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with cystic fibrosis due to the development of bacterial biofilms. In this study, we engineered self-assembling chitosan-ceftazidime nanoparticles (CSCE) capable of effectively penetrating biofilms and eradicating P. aeruginosa. The CSCE nanoparticles were synthesized through ionic cross-linking, combining negatively charged ceftazidime with positively charged chitosan, resulting in uniform nanoparticles measuring approximately 40 nm in diameter, exhibiting high dispersity and excellent biocompatibility. Remarkably, these nanoparticles exhibited significant inhibition of P. aeruginosa growth, reduced pyocyanin production, and diminished biofilm formation, achieving a maximum inhibition rate of 22.44%. Furthermore, in vivo investigations demonstrated enhanced survival in mice with abdominal P. aeruginosa infection following treatment with CSCE nanoparticles, accompanied by reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines Interleukin-6 (125.79 ± 18.63 pg/mL), Interleukin-17 (125.67 ± 5.94 pg/mL), and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (135.4 ± 11.77 pg/mL). Critically, mice treated with CSCE nanoparticles showed no presence of bacteria in the bloodstream following intraperitoneal P. aeruginosa infection. Collectively, our findings highlight the potential of these synthesized nanoparticles as effective agents against P. aeruginosa infections.

Biopolymer-Based Nanosystems: Potential Novel Carriers for Kidney Drug Delivery

Kidney disease has become a serious public health problem throughout the world, and its treatment and management constitute a huge global economic burden. Currently, the main clinical treatments are not sufficient to cure kidney diseases. During its development, nanotechnology has shown unprecedented potential for application to kidney diseases. However, nanotechnology has disadvantages such as high cost and poor bioavailability. In contrast, biopolymers are not only widely available but also highly bioavailable. Therefore, biopolymer-based nanosystems offer new promising solutions for the treatment of kidney diseases. This paper reviews the biopolymer-based nanosystems that have been used for renal diseases and describes strategies for the specific, targeted delivery of drugs to the kidney as well as the physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles that affect the targeting success.

Magnetite graphene oxide-albumin conjugate: carrier for the imatinib anticancer drug

Carbon nanomaterials are widely used in biomedical applications due to their versatile properties. These are the attractive candidates for the carrying of anticancer drugs, genes, and proteins for chemotherapy. Imatinib is an effective chemotherapy drug whose toxicity has created a significant limitation in treatment. In this research, a new biocompatible nanocarrier based on albumin-magnetite graphene oxide conjugates was reported for the loading and release of imatinib. The magnetite graphene oxide nanocomposite was investigated by ultra violet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) and energy diepersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) methods. The crystallite size of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles on graphene oxide obtained from XRD is about 14 nm which is in agreement well with the SEM results. We show that magnetite graphene oxide conjugated with albumin is an extremely efficient carrier. An efficient loading of IM, 81% at pH 7.0, time 2 h and initial concentration of 1 mg/mL was seen onto magnetite graphene oxide-albumin in comparison to graphene oxide and magnetite graphene oxide due to the presence of oxygen and nitrogen functional groups of albumin. Upon the pH 9.0 and 7.0, 7% and 16% imatinib could be released from the magnetite graphene oxide-albumin in a time span of 5 h but when exposed pH 4.0 the corresponding 31% was released in 5 h. After 20 h, 21, 42 and 68% of imatinib was released at pH 9.0, 7.0 and 4.0, respectively. This illustrates the major benefits of the developed approach for biomedical applications.

Preparation and Properties of Polyvinylpyrrolidone/Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose Soluble Microneedles

Transdermal drug delivery is a new means of delivering drugs through the skin to achieve therapeutic effects. Microneedles have several advantages, including low cost, easy self-administration, and high delivery efficiency. Different polymers affect the morphology, mechanical properties, and drug delivery efficiency of microneedles. To study the performance and limitations of microneedles (MNs), we prepared different ratios of polymers. MNs were fabricated from polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC-Na) using the centrifugal molding method. Needle morphology, formability, and other properties of the polymers were evaluated to compare the performances of MNs with different ratios. PVP and CMC-Na were intermixed at different ratios with water as the solvent. The soluble MNs were prepared by mold casting. The morphology, thermodynamic properties, and crystallinity were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TG), differential scanning calorimetric analysis (DSC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that composite microneedles have good thermal stability. Among the different compositions tested, the 10% PVP/2% CMC-Na composite microneedle demonstrated the best performance with a regular surface morphology and relatively high thermal decomposition and melting temperatures. These results indicate that microneedles with appropriate ratios of two different materials possess good formability and other properties.

Cyclodextrins as eminent constituents in nanoarchitectonics for drug delivery systems

Cyclodextrins have been widely employed for drug delivery systems (DDSs) in which drugs are selectively delivered to a target site in the body. Recent interest has been focused on the construction of cyclodextrin-based nanoarchitectures that show sophisticated DDS functions. These nanoarchitectures are precisely fabricated based on three important features of cyclodextrins, namely (1) the preorganized three-dimensional molecular structure of nanometer size, (2) the easy chemical modification to introduce functional groups, and (3) the formation of dynamic inclusion complexes with various guests in water. With the use of photoirradiation, drugs are released from cyclodextrin-based nanoarchitectures at designated timing. Alternatively, therapeutic nucleic acids are stably protected in the nanoarchitectures and delivered to the target site. The efficient delivery of the CRISPR-Cas9 system for gene editing was also successful. Even more complicated nanoarchitectures can be designed for sophisticated DDSs. Cyclodextrin-based nanoarchitectures are highly promising for future applications in medicine, pharmaceutics, and other relevant fields.

Machine Log File and Calibration Errors-based Patient-specific Quality Assurance (QA) for Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT)

INTRODUCTION

Dose reconstructed based on linear accelerator (linac) log-files is one of the widely used solutions to perform patient-specific quality assurance (QA). However, it has a drawback that the accuracy of log-file is highly dependent on the linac calibration. The objective of the current study is to represent a new practical approach for a patient-specific QA during Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) using both log-file and calibration errors of linac.

METHODS

A total of six cases, including two head and neck neoplasms, two lung cancers, and two rectal carcinomas, were selected. The VMAT-based delivery was optimized by the TPS of Pinnacle^3 subsequently, using Elekta Synergy VMAT linac (Elekta Oncology Systems, Crawley, UK), which was equipped with 80 Multi-leaf collimators (MLCs) and the energy of the ray selected at 6 MV. Clinical mode log-file of this linac was used in this study. A series of test fields validate the accuracy of log-file. Then, six plans of test cases were delivered and log-file of each was obtained. The log-file errors were added to the corresponding plans through the house script and the first reconstructed plan was obtained. Later, a series of tests were performed to evaluate the major calibration errors of the linac (dose-rate, gantry angle, MLC leaf position) and the errors were added to the first reconstruction plan to generate the second reconstruction plan. At last, all plans were imported to Pinnacle and recalculated dose distribution on patient CT and ArcCheck phantom (SUN Nuclear). For the former, both target and OAR dose differences between them were compared. For the latter, γ was evaluated by ArcCheck, and subsequently, the surface dose differences between them were performed.

RESULTS

Accuracy of log-file was validated. If error recordings in the log file were only considered, there were four arcs whose proportion of control points with gantry angle errors more than ± 1°larger than 35%. Errors of leaves within ± 0.5 mm were 95% for all arcs. The distinctness of a single control point MU was bigger, but the distinctness of cumulative MU was smaller. The maximum, minimum, and mean doses for all targets were distributed between -6.79E-02-0.42%, -0.38-0.4%, 2.69E-02-8.54E-02% respectively, whereas for all OAR, the maximum and mean dose were distributed between -1.16-2.51%, -1.21-3.12% respectively. For the second reconstructed dose: the maximum, minimum, and mean dose for all targets was distributed between 0.0995~5.7145%, 0.6892~4.4727%, 0.5829~1.8931% separately. Due to OAR, maximum and mean dose distribution was observed between -3.1462~6.8920%, -6.9899~1.9316%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Patient-specific QA based on the log-file could reflect the accuracy of the linac execution plan, which usually has a small influence on dose delivery. When the linac calibration errors were considered, the reconstructed dose was closer to the actual delivery and the developed method was accurate and practical.

Effect of β-cyclodextrin deodorization on the volatile chemicals and functional properties of three types of gelatins

The exploration of deodorization is important for the application of gelatin in food industry. In this work, the effect of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) deodorization on the volatile chemicals and functional properties of three types of gelatins (commercial porcine skin gelatin, cold water fish skin gelatin, and Chinese longsnout catfish skin gelatin) were studied. The results suggested the odors of commercial gelatins were significantly less than home-extracted gelatins. The β-CD deodorization efficiency was dependent on both β-CD concentration and volatile chemical. (E)-2-Octenal (C8H14O), 1-octen-3-ol (C8H16O), 2-pentyl-furan (C9H14O), and hentriacontane (C17H36) could be deodorized at low β-CD concentration (even at 2 mg/mL). The best β-CD deodorization concentration for 66.7 mg/mL of Chinese longsnout catfish skin gelatin was 30 mg/mL. β-CD addition could not change the gel forming ability and emulsion activity of gelatins, whereas it had different and concentration-dependent effects on the emulsion stability of gelatins. β-CD addition had no obvious effects on the droplet sizes, droplet coalescence and liquid-gel transition behaviors, but had different effects on the creaming of the emulsions stabilized by three types of gelatins. The encapsulation of β-carotene did not significantly change the droplet trimodal size distribution and liquid-gel transition of fish oil-loaded emulsions. However, β-carotene might delay the droplet coalescence. The creaming stability of β-carotene/fish oil-loaded gelatin/β-CD-stabilized emulsions was dependent on the gelatins, β-CD, and β-carotene. Finally, the β-carotene retention in the emulsions was dependent not on β-CD addition but on the nature of the gelatins. These results provided useful information to understand the molecular deodorization behaviors and explore the deodorization of emulsifiers for food emulsions.