Parenterally administrable nano-micelles of 3,4-difluorobenzylidene curcumin for treating pancreatic cancer

Curcumin - Bioavailability Enhancement by Prodrug Approach and Novel Formulations

Curcumin is a diverse natural pharmacological agent involved in various signal transduction mechanisms. Therapeutically, this potent molecule faces different challenges and issues related to low bioavailability due to its poor aqueous solubility, less permeability, faster elimination and clearance. Experts in synthetic chemistry and pharmaceuticals are continuously sparing their efforts to overcome these pharmacokinetic challenges by using different structural modification strategies and developing novel drug delivery systems. In this mini-review article, we are focusing on development of curcumin derivatives by different possible routes like conjugation with biomolecules, natural polymers, synthetic polymers, natural products, metal conjugates and co- administration with natural metabolic inhibitors. In addition to that, it was also focused on the preparation of modified formulations such as micelles, microemulsions, liposomes, complexes with phospholipids, micro and nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles, nano lipid carriers, biopolymer nanoparticles and microgels to improve the pharmacokinetic properties of the curcumin without altering its pharmacodynamics activity. This review helps to understand the problems associated with curcumin and different strategies to improve its pharmacokinetic profile.

Current appraises of therapeutic applications of nanocurcumin: A novel drug delivery approach for biomaterials in dentistry

Curcumin is a natural herb and polyphenol that is obtained from the medicinal plant Curcuma longa. It's anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-mutagenic, antioxidant and antifungal properties can be leveraged to treat a myriad of oral and systemic diseases. However, natural curcumin has weak solubility, limited bioavailability and undergoes rapid degradation, which severely limits its therapeutic potential. To overcome these drawbacks, nanocurcumin (nCur) formulations have been developed for improved biomaterial delivery and enhanced treatment outcomes. This novel biomaterial holds tremendous promise for the treatment of various oral diseases, the majority of which are caused by dental biofilm. These include dental caries, periodontal disease, root canal infection and peri-implant diseases, as well as other non-biofilm mediated oral diseases such as oral cancer and oral lichen planus. A number of in-vitro studies have demonstrated the antibacterial efficacy of nCur in various formulations against common oral pathogens such as S. mutans, P. gingivalis and E. faecalis, which are strongly associated with dental caries, periodontitis and root canal infection, respectively. In addition, some clinical studies were suggestive of the notion that nCur can indeed enhance the clinical outcomes of oral diseases such as periodontitis and oral lichen planus, but the level of evidence was very low due to the small number of studies and the methodological limitations of the available studies. The versatility of nCur to treat a diverse range of oral diseases augurs well for its future in dentistry, as reflected by rapid pace in which studies pertaining to this topic are published in the scientific literature. In order to keep abreast of the latest development of nCur in dentistry, this narrative review was undertaken. The aim of this narrative review is to provide a contemporaneous update of the chemistry, properties, mechanism of action, and scientific evidence behind the usage of nCur in dentistry.

Nanotechnology and curcumin: a novel and promising approach in digestive cancer therapy

This study reviews the application of nanotechnology and curcumin, a polyphenol extracted from turmeric, in treating digestive cancers, one of the most common types of malignancies worldwide. Despite curcumin's potential for inhibiting tumor growth, its clinical application is hindered by issues such as poor solubility and bioavailability. Nanomedicine, with its unique ability to enhance drug delivery and reduce toxicity, offers a solution to these limitations. The paper focuses on the development of nanoformulations of curcumin, such as nanoparticles and liposomes, that improve its bioavailability and efficacy in treating digestive cancers, including liver and colorectal cancers. The study serves as a valuable reference for future research and development in this promising therapeutic approach.

Curcumin I-SMA nanomicelles as promising therapeutic tool to tackle bacterial infections

Renewed interest towards natural substances has been pushed by the widespread diffusion of antibiotic resistance. Curcumin I is the most active and effective constituent of curcuminoids extracted from Curcuma longa and, among other beneficial effects, attracted attention for its antimicrobial potential. Since the poor pharmacokinetic profile hinders its efficient utilization, in the present paper, we report encapsulation of curcumin I in poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) (SMA-CUR) providing a nanomicellar system with improved aqueous solubility and bioavailability. SMA-CUR was characterized by means of size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, atomic force microscopy (AFM), drug release studies, spectroscopic properties and stability. SMA-CUR nanoformulation displayed exciting antimicrobial properties compared to free curcumin I towards Gram-positive and Gram-negative clinical isolates.

Dendrimer: An update on recent developments and future opportunities for the brain tumors diagnosis and treatment

A brain tumor is an uncontrolled cell proliferation, a mass of tissue composed of cells that grow and divide abnormally and appear to be uncontrollable by the processes that normally control normal cells. Approximately 25,690 primary malignant brain tumors are discovered each year, 70% of which originate in glial cells. It has been observed that the blood-brain barrier (BBB) limits the distribution of drugs into the tumour environment, which complicates the oncological therapy of malignant brain tumours. Numerous studies have found that nanocarriers have demonstrated significant therapeutic efficacy in brain diseases. This review, based on a non-systematic search of the existing literature, provides an update on the existing knowledge of the types of dendrimers, synthesis methods, and mechanisms of action in relation to brain tumours. It also discusses the use of dendrimers in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumours and the future possibilities of dendrimers. Dendrimers are of particular interest in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumours because they can transport biochemical agents across the BBB to the tumour and into the brain after systemic administration. Dendrimers are being used to develop novel therapeutics such as prolonged release of drugs, immunotherapy, and antineoplastic effects. The use of PAMAM, PPI, PLL and surface engineered dendrimers has proven revolutionary in the effective diagnosis and treatment of brain tumours.

GLUT1 transporter-facilitated solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with anti-cancer therapeutics for ovarian cancer targeting

The therapeutics available for cancer treatment have the major hurdle of site-specific delivery of anti-cancer drugs to the tumor site and non-target specific side effects. The standard therapy for ovarian cancer still poses numerous pitfalls due to the irrational use of drugs affecting healthy cells. As an appealing approach, nanomedicine could revamp the therapeutic profile of anti-cancer agents. Owing to the low manufacturing cost, increased biocompatibility, and modifiable surface properties, lipid-based nanocarriers, particularly solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), have remarkable drug delivery properties in cancer treatment. Given the extra-ordinary benefits, we developed anti-neoplastic (paclitaxel) drug-loaded SLN (PTX-SLN) and functionalized with N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (GLcNAc) (GLcNAc-PTX-SLN) to reduce the rate of proliferation, growth, and metastasis of ovarian cancer cells over-expressing GLUT1 transporters. The particles presented considerable size and distribution while demonstrating haemocompatibility. Using GLcNAc modified form of SLNs, confocal microscopy, MTT assay, and flow cytometry study demonstrated higher cellular uptake and significant cytotoxic effect. Also, molecular docking results established excellent binding affinity between GLcNAc and GLUT1, complimenting the feasibility of the therapeutic approach in targeted cancer therapy. Following the compendium of target-specific drug delivery by SLN, our results demonstrated a significant response for ovarian cancer therapy.

Unravelling the enigma of siRNA and aptamer mediated therapies against pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a fatal disease that has a poor 5-year survival rate. The poor prognosis can be attributed to both troublesome detections at the initial stage, which makes the majority of the treatment options largely unsuccessful and leads to extensive metastasis, as well as to its distinct pathophysiological characteristics, such as rich desmoplastic tumours bounded by dysplastic and hypo perfused vessels restricting the mobility of therapeutic agents. Continued attempts have been made to utilise innovative measures for battling PC to increase the therapeutic effectiveness of therapies and overcome their cytotoxicity. Combined cancer targeting and gene silencing approach has shown improved outcomes in patients' survival rates and quality of life, offering a potential solution to therapeutic complications. It particularly targets various barriers to alleviate delivery problems and diminish tumour recurrence and metastasis. While aptamers, a type of single-stranded nucleic acids with strong binding affinity and specificity to target molecules, have recently surfaced as a viable PC strategy, siRNA can interfere with the expression of certain genes. By concurrently suppressing genes and boosting targeted approach, the cocktail of siRNA/Aptamer and other therapeutic drugs can circumvent the multi-drug resistance phenomena. Additionally, combination therapy with additive or synergistic effects can considerably increase the therapeutic efficacy of anti-cancer medications. This study outlines the primary difficulties in treating PC, along with recent developments in siRNA/Aptamer mediated drug delivery to solve the major hiccup of oncology field.

Advancements in redox-sensitive micelles as nanotheranostics: A new horizon in cancer management

World Health Organisation (WHO) delineated cancer as one of the foremost reasons for mortality with 10 million deaths in the year 2020. Early diagnosis and effective drug delivery are of utmost importance in cancer management. The entrapment of both bio-imaging dyes and drugs will open novel avenues in the area of tumor theranostics. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and glutathione (GSH) are the characteristic features of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Researchers have taken advantage of these specific TME features in recent years to develop micelle-based theranostic nanosystems. This review focuses on the advantages of redox-sensitive micelles (RSMs) and supramolecular self-assemblies for tumor theranostics. Key chemical linkers employed for the tumor-specific release of the cargo have been discussed. In vitro characterisation techniques used for the characterization of RSMs have been deliberated. Potential bottlenecks that may present themselves in the bench-to-bedside translation of this technology and the regulatory considerations have been deliberated.

Amelioration of Full-Thickness Wound Using Hesperidin Loaded Dendrimer-Based Hydrogel Bandages

Wound healing is a complex biological phenomenon, having different but overlapping stages to obtained complete re-epithelization. The aim of the current study was to develop a dendrimer-based hydrogel bandage, to ameliorate full-thickness wounds. Hesperidin, a bioflavonoid found in vegetables and citrus fruits, is used for treatment of wounds; however, its therapeutic use is limited, due to poor water solubility and poor bioavailability. This issue was overcome by incorporating hesperidin in the inner core of a dendrimer. Hence, a dendrimer-based hydrogel bandage was prepared, and the wound healing activity was determined. A hemolysis study indicated that the hesperidin-loaded dendrimer was biocompatible and can be used for wound healing. The therapeutic efficacy of the prepared formulation was evaluated on a full-thickness wound, using an animal model. H&E staining of the control group showed degenerated neutrophils and eosinophils, while 10% of the formulation showed wound closure, formation of the epidermal layer, and remodeling. The MT staining of the 10% formulation showed better collagen synthesis compared to the control group. In vivo results showed that the preparation had better wound contraction activity compared to the control group; after 14 days, the control group had 79 ± 1.41, while the 10% of formulation had 98.9 ± 0.42. In a nutshell, Hsp-P-Hyd 10% showed the best overall performance in amelioration of full-thickness wounds.

Efficient Delivery of Curcumin by Alginate Oligosaccharide Coated Aminated Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles and In Vitro Anticancer Activity against Colon Cancer Cells

We designed and synthesized aminated mesoporous silica (MSN-NH₂), and functionally grafted alginate oligosaccharides (AOS) on its surface to get MSN-NH₂-AOS nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle for the fat-soluble model drug curcumin (Cur). Dynamic light scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize the structure and performance of MSN-NH₂-AOS. The nano-MSN-NH₂-AOS preparation process was optimized, and the drug loading and encapsulation efficiencies of nano-MSN-NH₂-AOS were investigated. The encapsulation efficiency of the MSN-NH₂-Cur-AOS nanoparticles was up to 91.24 ± 1.23%. The pH-sensitive AOS coating made the total release rate of Cur only 28.9 ± 1.6% under neutral conditions and 67.5 ± 1% under acidic conditions. According to the results of in vitro anti-tumor studies conducted by MTT and cellular uptake assays, the MSN-NH₂-Cur-AOS nanoparticles were more easily absorbed by colon cancer cells than free Cur, achieving a high tumor cell targeting efficiency. Moreover, when the concentration of Cur reached 50 μg/mL, MSN-NH₂-Cur-AOS nanoparticles showed strong cytotoxicity against tumor cells, indicating that MSN-NH₂-AOS might be a promising tool as a novel fat-soluble anticancer drug carrier.

Site-Specific Binding of Anticancer Drugs to Human Serum Albumin

The interaction of drugs with proteins plays a very important role in the distribution of the drug. Human serum albumin (HSA) is the most abundant protein in the human body and showing great binding characteristics has gained a lot of importance pharmaceutically. It plays an essential role in the pharmacokinetics of a number of drugs and hence several reports are available on the interaction of drugs with HSA. It can bind to cancer drugs and thus it is crucial to look at the binding characteristics of these drugs with HSA. Herein we summarize the binding properties of some anti-cancer drugs by specifically looking into the binding site with HSA. The number of drugs binding at Sudlow's site I situated in subdomain II A is more than the drugs binding at Sudlow's site II.

Characterization and Ex vivo Evaluation of Curcumin Nanoethosomes for Melanoma treatment

This study aimed at developing curcumin nanoethosomes (Cur-Ets) with superior skin permeation intended for melanoma treatment. Although curcumin is active against many types of skin cancers, a suitable topical formulation is still lacking due to its hydrophobicity and poor skin permeation. The formulation was characterized using Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), ATR-FTIR, DSC, and XRD. In vitro skin permeation was carried out using human skin, and the cytotoxicity of the formulation was evaluated on human melanoma cells (SK-MEL28). The vesicle size and zeta potential of the Cur-Ets were determined as 67 ± 1.6 nm and - 87.3 ± 3.3 mV, respectively. STEM and AFM analysis further support the size and morphology of the formulation. Curcumin's compatibility with formulation additives was confirmed by ATR-FTIR analysis. In addition, DSC and XRD analyses showed successful drug encapsulation in nanoethosomes. The drug encapsulation efficiency was determined as 87 ± 0.9%. The skin permeation of curcumin from Cur-Ets showed a superior flux (0.14 ± 0.03 µg cm^-2 h^-1) compared to the control (p < 0.05). Cytotoxicity of the formulation demonstrated a time-dependent and concentration-dependent antiproliferative activity against melanoma cells. The developed Cur-Ets is suggested as a promising topical formulation for melanoma treatment.

Formulation development and in vitro-in vivo assessment of protransfersomal gel of anti-resorptive drug in osteoporosis treatment

Osteoporosis is a major cause of morbidity, mortality, and economic burden worldwide. Despite being an effective in combating the bone-deteriorating disorders, bisphosphonates have several shortcomings including poor and variable bioavailability, low permeability, high toxicity, etc. In this study, we developed and optimized protransfersome formulation for the drug risedronate sodium (RIS-Na) with the goal of enhancing its bioavailability and hence patient compliance. Phase separation coacervation technique was utilized for development of optimized formulation. Optimization was achieved by using three-factor, three-level Box-Behnken design combined with Response Surface Methodology (RSM). This enabled us to decipher the effect of 3 independent variables (Phospholipid, Tween-80 and Sodium Deoxycholate) on three dependent parameters (entrapment efficiency, vesicle size and transdermal flux). Optimized formulation was further evaluated for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters. Smooth, spherical protransfersomes with a size of 260 ± 18 nm, having entrapment efficiency and flux of 80.4 ± 4.90% and 8.41 ± 0.148 μg/cm²/h, respectively were prepared. Ex vivo studies revealed a shorter lag time of 1.21 ± 0.18 h and higher flux associated with transdermal formulation. CLSM analysis further revealed better drug penetration (220 μm) through the skin in case of protransfersomes as compared to drug solution (72 μm). Additionally, biomechanical, biochemical, and histo-pathological studies further validated the results. Thus, it was concluded that protransfersome formulation has a great potential in providing better therapeutic efficacy of risedronate than its conventional counterpart.

Relationship and improvement strategies between drug nanocarrier characteristics and hemocompatibility: What can we learn from the literature

This article discusses the various blood interactions that may occur with various types of nano drug-loading systems. Nanoparticles enter the blood circulation as foreign objects. On the one hand, they may cause a series of inflammatory reactions and immune reactions, resulting in the rapid elimination of immune cells and the reticuloendothelial system, affecting their durability in the blood circulation. On the other hand, the premise of the drug-carrying system to play a therapeutic role depends on whether they cause coagulation and platelet activation, the absence of hemolysis and the elimination of immune cells. For different forms of nano drug-carrying systems, we can find the characteristics, elements and coping strategies of adverse blood reactions that we can find in previous researches. These adverse reactions may include destruction of blood cells, abnormal coagulation system, abnormal effects of plasma proteins, abnormal blood cell behavior, adverse immune and inflammatory reactions, and excessive vascular stimulation. In order to provide help for future research and formulation work on the blood compatibility of nano drug carriers.

Therapeutic effect of curcumin in gastrointestinal cancers: A comprehensive review

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers with a high global prevalence are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Accordingly, there is a great need to develop efficient therapeutic approaches. Curcumin, a naturally occurring agent, is a promising compound with documented safety and anticancer activities. Recent studies have demonstrated the activity of curcumin in the prevention and treatment of different cancers. According to systematic studies on curcumin use in various diseases, it can be particularly effective in GI cancers because of its high bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract. Nevertheless, the clinical applications of curcumin are largely limited because of its low solubility and low chemical stability in water. These limitations may be addressed by the use of relevant analogues or novel delivery systems. Herein, we summarize the pharmacological effects of curcumin against GI cancers. Moreover, we highlight the application of curcumin's analogues and novel delivery systems in the treatment of GI cancers.

Perspectives for synthetic curcumins in chemoprevention and treatment of cancer: An update with promising analogues

Curcumin, a pure compound extracted from the flowering plant, turmeric (Curcuma longa. Zingiberaceae), is a common dietary ingredient found in curry powder. It has been studied extensively for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-tumour activities. Evidence is accumulating demonstrating its potential in chemoprevention and as an anti-tumour agent for the treatment of cancer. Despite demonstrated safety and tolerability, the clinical application of curcumin is frustrated by its poor solubility, metabolic instability and low oral bioavailability. Consequently researchers have tried novel techniques of formulation and delivery as well as synthesis of analogues with enhanced properties to overcome these barriers. This review presents the synthetic analogues of curcumin that have proven their anticancer potential from different studies. It also highlights studies that combined these analogues with approved chemotherapies and delivered them via novel techniques. Currently, there are no reports of clinical studies on any of the synthetic congeners of curcumin and this presents an opportunity for future research. This review presents the synthetic analogues of curcumin and makes a compelling argument for their potential application in the management of cancerous disease.

Emerging innovations in nano-enabled therapy against age-related macular degeneration: A paradigm shift

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a degenerative eye disease, is the major cause of irreversible loss of vision among individuals aged 50 and older. Both genetic and environmental factors are responsible for the progressive damage to central vision. It is a multifactorial retinal disease with features such as drusen, hypopigmentation and/or hyperpigmentation of the retinal pigment epithelium, and even choroidal neovascularization in certain patients. AMD is of two major forms: exudative (wet) and atrophic (dry) with changes affecting the macula leading to impaired vision. Although the retina remains an accessible portion for delivering drugs, there are no current options to cure or treat AMD. The existing expensive therapeutics are unable to treat the underlying pathology but display several side effects. However, recent innovations in nanotherapeutics provide an optimal alternative of drug delivery to treat the neovascular condition. These new-age technologies in the nanometer scale would enhance bioactivity and improve the bioavailability of drugs at the site of action to treat AMD. The nanomedicine also provides sustained release of the drug with prolonged retention after penetrating across the ocular tissues. In this review, the insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with the pathophysiology of AMD are provided. It also serves to review the current progress in nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems that offer feasible treatments in AMD.

Formulation development and characterization of lumefantrine nanosuspension for enhanced antimalarial activity

Variable and low oral bioavailability (4-11%) of lumefantrine (LUF), an anti-malarial agent, is characterized by very low solubility in aqueous vehicle. Thus, the present study was intended to formulate lyophilized nanosuspensions of LUF to resolve its solubility issues for the improvement of oral bioavailability. A three level 3² factorial design was applied to analyze the influence of independent variables, concentration of polysorbate 80 (X₁) and sonication time (X₂) on the responses for dependent variables, particle size (Y₁) and time to 90% release of LUF (t₉₀) (Y₂). Optimized formulation (F3) has shown to possess lowest particle size (95.34 nm) with minimum t₉₀ value (⁓3 mins), which was lyophilized to obtain the dry powder form of the nanosuspension. The characterization parameters confirmed the amorphous form of LUF with good stability and no chemical interactions of the drug with the incorporated components. Further, saturation solubility study revealed increased solubility of the LUF nanosuspension (1670 µg/mL) when compared to the pure drug (212.33 µg/mL). Further, rate of dissolution of LUF from the nanosuspension formulations were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) higher when compared to the pure drug. Fabricated lyophilized nanosuspension was found to be stable at 25 ± 2 °C/60 ± 5% RH and 40 ± 2 °C/75 ± 5% RH for the duration of three months. In conclusion, lyophilized nanosuspension showed ∼8-folds increase in drug release, which indicated a better way to offer higher release of LUF in controlling malaria.

QbD Enabled Azacitidine Loaded Liposomal Nanoformulation and Its In Vitro Evaluation

Azacitidine (AZA), an inhibitor of DNA methyltransferase, is a commonly recognized drug used in clinical treatment for myelodysplastic syndrome and breast cancer. Due to higher aqueous solubility and negative log P of AZA causes poor cancer cell permeation and controlled release. The objective of the present study was to formulate and optimize AZA-loaded liposome (AZA-LIPO) for breast cancer chemotherapy by using Box Behnken design (BBD) and in vitro evaluation using MCF-7 cells. AZA-LIPO were prepared using a thin film hydration technique and characterization study was performed by using FTIR and DSC. The prepared formulations were optimized using BBD and the optimized formulation was further subjected for particle size, surface charges, polydispersity index (PDI), drug loading, entrapment efficiency, TEM, XRD, in-vitro drug release and hemolytic toxicity. The mean particle size of optimized AZA-LIPO was 127 nm. Entrapment efficiency and drug loading of AZA-LIPO was found to be 85.2% ± 0.5 and 6.82 ± 1.6%, respectively. Further, in vitro drug release study showed preliminary burst release in 2 h followed by a sustained release for 36 h in phosphate buffer at different pH (4.0, 5.5, and 7.4) as compared to free drug. Drug release was found to be pH dependent, as the pH was increased, the drug release rate was found to be low. Time-dependent cell viability assay exhibited significant higher cell viability and higher internalization than free AZA in MCF-7 cells. AZA-LIPO were more effective than the free AZA in reducing Bcl2 expression, while increasing pro-apoptotic Bax and caspase-3 activity. The result showed that the formulated biocompatible AZA-LIPO nano-formulations may be used as an efficient anti-cancer drug delivery system for the treatment of breast cancer after establishing preclinical and clinical studies.

A multifunctional CeO2@SiO2-PEG nanoparticle carrier for delivery of food derived proanthocyanidin and curcumin as effective antioxidant, neuroprotective and anticancer agent

The nanoparticle systems could effectively overcome the drug delivery challenges of food bioactive compounds. In this study, a novel and effective multifunctional PEG modified CeO₂@SiO₂ nanoparticle (CSP-NPs) system was successfully fabricated. Food derived proanthocyanidin (PAC) and curcumin (Cur) were loaded onto CSP-NPs and formed as PAC-NPs and Cur-NPs. Fourier transform Infrared spectra, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering were used to characterize the prepared NPs. CSP-NPs, PAC-NPs and Cur-NPs displayed spherical shape with about 35-45 nm size. The bioactivity analysis revealed that CSP-NPs system could effectively deliver PAC and Cur to exhibit strong antioxidant activity, potent neuroprotective effect against Aβ_1-42-mediated toxicity in PC-12 cells (recovered cell viability from 57.5% to 81.0% at the dose of 25 μg/mL) and effective antiproliferative effects on HepG2 and Hela cells. Besides, all prepared nanoparticles (0-100 µg/ml) used in this study showed no significant toxicity on cell models of antioxidative and neuroprotective activities, excepting for cancer cells, suggesting that these nanoparticles had the potential of being utilized in drug delivery. Therefore, CSP-NPs might be a promising delivery system for hydrophilic molecule proanthocyanidin and hydrophobic molecule curcumin against the oxidative damage, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer, which could facilitate the application of food derived nutrients in functional foods industry.

Utilization of plant-derived Myricetin molecule coupled with ultrasound for the synthesis of gold nanoparticles against breast cancer

Phytochemical mediated synthesis of nanoparticles has gained great interest in the field of cancer therapeutics. We attempted a simple and stable synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with Myricetin (Myr) adopting ultrasound-assisted method. Further, we evaluated anticancer activity of the synthesized nanoparticles. The physico-chemical properties of biosynthesized Myr-AuNPs were characterized by UV-visible spectrophotometer, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and particle size analysis. The study reports of Myr-AuNPs showed spherical-shaped particles with a size of < 50 nm. Stability of the particles was increased in various physiological media. Furthermore, the graph theoretical network analysis of Myr-AuNPs indicated that the probable binding with the mTOR is an effective target for breast cancer cells. In silico molecular docking study of Myr-AuNPs in human mTOR kinase was found to be strong binding. The IC₅₀ value of Myr-AuNPs was calculated as 13 μg mL^-1 against MCF-7 cell line. The AO/EB and DAPI stainings confirmed the anticancer activity by Myr-AuNPs-treated cells showed a good proportion of dead cells evidenced with formation of pro-apoptotic bodies. In addition, Myr-AuNPs exhibited depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential and production of reactive oxygen species. This study proves that Myr-AuNPs holds great promise to use against breast cancer as a potent anticancer drug. Graphical abstract A schematic representation for the biosynthesis of Myr-AuNPs.

Carbonic Anhydrase-IX Guided Albumin Nanoparticles for Hypoxia-mediated Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cell Killing and Imaging of Patient-derived Tumor

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is considered as the most onerous cancer subtype, lacking the estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. Evaluating new markers is an unmet need for improving targeted therapy against TNBC. TNBC depends on several factors, including hypoxia development, which contributes to therapy resistance, immune evasion, and tumor stroma formation. In this study, we studied the curcumin analogue (3,4-Difluorobenzylidene Curcumin; CDF) encapsulated bovine serum albumin (BSA) nanoparticle for tumor targeting. For tumor targeting, we conjugated Acetazolamide (ATZ) with CDF and encapsulated it in the BSA to form a nanoparticle (namely BSA-CDF-ATZ). The in vitro cytotoxicity study suggested that BSA-CDF-ATZ is more efficient when compared to free CDF. The BSA-CDF-ATZ nanoparticles showed significantly higher cell killing in hypoxic conditions compared to normoxic conditions, suggesting better internalization of the nanoparticles into cancer cells under hypoxia. Fluorescent-dye labeled BSA-CDF-ATZ revealed higher cell uptake of the nanoparticle compared to free dye indicative of better delivery, substantiated by a high rate of apoptosis-mediated cell death compared to free CDF. The significantly higher tumor accumulation and low liver and spleen uptake in TNBC patient-derived tumor xenograft models confirm the significant potential of BSA-CDF-ATZ for targeted TNBC imaging and therapy.

Liposome co-encapsulation as a strategy for the delivery of curcumin and resveratrol

Curcumin and resveratrol are natural compounds whose strong antioxidant activities are highly beneficial in the human diet. Unfortunately, their physicochemical properties result in poor stability in their chemical and antioxidant activities, which limits their utilization in food and pharmaceutical applications. In this study, liposomal nanoencapsulation was developed as a strategy to overcome these limitations and improve the antioxidant effects of these compounds. The physicochemical characteristics of co-encapsulated liposomes were evaluated and compared to formulations containing each compound individually. Liposomes co-encapsulating curcumin and resveratrol presented a lower particle size, lower polydispersity index and greater encapsulation efficiency. The formulation of liposomes co-loading curcumin and resveratrol at 5 : 1, exhibited the lowest particle size (77.50 nm), lowest polydispersity index (0.193), highest encapsulation efficiency (reaching 80.42 ± 2.12%), and strongest 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging, lipid peroxidation inhibition capacity and reducing power. Additionally, liposomes loading both curcumin and resveratrol displayed a higher ability during preparation, storage, heating and surfactant shock than those loaded with individual polyphenol. Infrared spectroscopic and fluorescence techniques demonstrated that the curcumin mainly located in the hydrophobic acyl-chain region of liposomes, while the resveratrol orientated to the polar head groups. These orientations could have synergistic effects on the stabilization of liposomes. Our findings should guide the rational design of a co-delivery liposomal system regarding the location and orientation of bioactive compounds inside the lipid bilayer.

Recent advances of analogues of curcumin for treatment of cancer

Curcumin (CU), an edible natural pigment from Curcuma Longa, has demonstrated extensive anti-tumor effect in vivo and in vitro. With the property of reversing drug resistance and low toxicity, CU has been considered to develop a new adjuvant chemotherapy protocol of cancer. However, the poor stability, solubility, in vivo bioavailability and weak activity of CU greatly limit its clinical application. Therefore, CU analogues have been extensively studied. Starting from the study of natural CU analogues, multiple approaches are being sought to obtain more stable, soluble and effective analogues of CU. This review focuses on the progress of these approaches to more potent CU analogues.

Tumor-stromal crosstalk in pancreatic cancer and tissue fibrosis

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. To date, limited therapeutic achievements targeting cell proliferation and related mechanisms has led researchers to focus on the microenvironment where pancreatic cancers develop. The anomalous proliferation of stromal cells, such as pancreatic stellate cells, and an increased deposition of altered matrix proteins create an environment that facilitates tumor growth, metastasis and drug resistance. Here, we summarize our understanding of recent advances in research about the role of fibrosis in pancreatic cancer progression, with particular emphasize on the involvement of fibrotic machineries such as wound healing, extra cellular matrix degradation, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. The precise influence of these mechanisms on the biological behaviors and growth of cancer cells has great impact on clinical therapy and therefore deserves more attention. We also discuss the role of various stromal components in conferring drug resistance to PDAC which further worsening the pessimistic disease prognosis. A more in depth understanding of cancer-stroma crosstalk within the tumor microenvironment and stroma based clinical and translational therapies may provide new therapeutic strategies for the prevention of pancreatic cancer progression.

Reviewing two decades of nanomedicine implementations in targeted treatment and diagnosis of pancreatic cancer: An emphasis on state of art

Pancreatic cancer is nowadays the most life-threatening cancer type worldwide. The problem of poor diagnosis, anti-neoplastics resistance and biopharmaceutical drawbacks of effective anti-cancer drugs lead to worsen disease state. Nanotechnology-based carrier systems used in both imaging and treatment procedures had solved many of these problems. It is critical to develop advanced detection method to save patients from being too late diagnosed. Targeting the pancreatic cancer cells as well helped in decreasing the side effects associated with normal cells destruction. Drug resistance is another challenge in pancreatic cancer management that can be solved by thorough understanding of the microenvironment associated with the disease to design creative nanocarriers. This is the first article to review multifaceted approaches of nanomedicine in pancreatic cancer detection and management. Additionally, mortality rates in selected Arab and European countries were illustrated herein. An emphasis was given on therapeutic and diagnostic challenges and different nanotechnologies adopted to overcome. The four main approaches encompassed nanomedicine for herbal treatment, nanomedicine of synthetic anti-cancer drugs, metal nanoparticles as a distinct treatment policy and nanotechnology for cancer diagnosis. Future research perspectives have been finally proposed.

Development of asialoglycoprotein receptor directed nanoparticles for selective delivery of curcumin derivative to hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular cellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most challenging liver cancer subtypes. Due to lack of cell surface biomarkers and highly metastatic nature, early detection and targeted therapy of HCC is an unmet need. Galactosamine (Gal) is among the few selective ligands used for targeting HCCs due to its high binding affinity to asialoglycoprotein receptors (ASGPRs) overexpressed in HCC. In the present work, we engineered nanoscale G4 polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers anchored to galactosamine and loaded with the potent anticancer curcumin derivative (CDF) as a platform for targeted drug delivery to HCC. In vivo targeting ability and bio-distribution of PAMAM-Gal were assessed via its labeling with the clinically used, highly contrast, near infrared (NIR) dye: S0456, with testing of the obtained conjugate in aggressive HCC xenograft model. Our results highlighted the targeted dendrimer PAMAM-Gal ability to achieve selective high cellular uptake via ASGPR mediated endocytosis and significantly enhance the delivery of CDF into the studied HCC cell lines. Cytotoxicity MTT assays in HCC cell lines, interestingly highlighted, the comparative high potency of CDF, where CDF was more potent as a chemotherapeutic anticancer small molecule than the currently in use Doxorubicin, Sorafenib and Cisplatin chemotherapeutic agents. In conclusion the proof-of-concept study using nanoscale PAMAM-Gal dendrimer has demonstrated its competency as an efficient delivery system for selective delivery of potent CDF for HCC anticancer therapy as well as HCC diagnosis via NIR imaging.

Dendrimer- and copolymer-based nanoparticles for magnetic resonance cancer theranostics

Cancer theranostics is one of the most important approaches for detecting and treating patients at an early stage. To develop such a technique, accurate detection, specific targeting, and controlled delivery are the key components. Various kinds of nanoparticles have been proposed and demonstrated as potential nanovehicles for cancer theranostics. Among them, polymer-like dendrimers and copolymer-based core-shell nanoparticles could potentially be the best possible choices. At present, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is widely used for clinical purposes and is generally considered the most convenient and noninvasive imaging modality. Superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) and gadolinium (Gd)-based dendrimers are the major nanostructures that are currently being investigated as nanovehicles for cancer theranostics using MRI. These structures are capable of specific targeting of tumors as well as controlled drug or gene delivery to tumor sites using pH, temperature, or alternating magnetic field (AMF)-controlled mechanisms. Recently, Gd-based pseudo-porous polymer-dendrimer supramolecular nanoparticles have shown 4-fold higher T1 relaxivity along with highly efficient AMF-guided drug release properties. Core-shell copolymer-based nanovehicles are an equally attractive alternative for designing contrast agents and for delivering anti-cancer drugs. Various copolymer materials could be used as core and shell components to provide biostability, modifiable surface properties, and even adjustable imaging contrast enhancement. Recent advances and challenges in MRI cancer theranostics using dendrimer- and copolymer-based nanovehicles have been summarized in this review article, along with new unpublished research results from our laboratories.

The Curcumin Analog CH-5 Exerts Anticancer Effects in Human Osteosarcoma Cells via Modulation of Transcription Factors p53/Sp1

Curcumin is a potential anticancer drug with poor bioavailability, which limits its clinical use as a therapeutic agent. The aim of this study was a preliminary evaluation of the curcumin analogue CH-5 as a cytotoxic agent in human osteosarcoma cell lines U2OS, MG-63, and Saos-2. CH-5 inhibited cell viability at lower concentrations than curcumin, leading to the induction of apoptosis. The cellular levels of the transcription factors p53 and Sp1 affect the expression of cellular pathways that lead to apoptosis. CH-5 increased p53 protein levels in U2OS cells and reduced Sp1 levels, with a consequent effect on the expression of their target genes DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible 45 alpha gene (Gadd45a). CH-5 repressed DNMT1 and increased Gadd45a mRNA expression, which was dependent on p53, as this effect was only observed in the colorectal cancer cell line HCT116 with active p53, but not in the isogenic p53-deficient HCT116 cells. CH-5 also reduced the protein levels of DNMT1, which led to the upregulation of Gadd45a. These results suggest that CH-5 has potentially higher anticancer activity than curcumin, which is associated with the expression of apoptosis-associated genes regulated by the transcription factors Sp1 and p53. Future work on CH-5 will define the therapeutic potential of this compound in vivo.

CD44 directed nanomicellar payload delivery platform for selective anticancer effect and tumor specific imaging of triple negative breast cancer

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive tumor subtype, lacking estrogen, progesterone and human epidermal growth factor-2 (HER-2) receptors. Thus, early detection and targeted therapy of TNBC is an urgent need. Herein, we have developed a CD44 targeting Hyaluronic Acid (HA) decorated biocompatible oligomer, containing FDA approved vitamin E TPGS and Styrene Maleic Anhydride (SMA) (HA-SMA-TPGS) for targeting TNBC. The self-assembling HA-SMA-TPGS was encapsulated with poorly water soluble, potent curcumin analogue (CDF) to form nanomicelles (NM), HA-SMA-TPGS-CDF has demonstrated excellent nanoparticle characteristics for parenteral delivery. The targeted NM can selectively kill TNBC cells through CD44 mediated apoptosis pathway. Tumor imaging using phase-2 clinical trial near infrared (NIR)-fluorescent dye (S0456) conjugate, HA-SMA-TPGS-S0456 showed excellent TNBC tumor accumulation with minimum liver and spleen uptake. To our best of knowledge, for the first time, we are reporting a promising platform for CD44 mediated multimodal NIR imaging and cytotoxin delivery to TNBC.

A tumor multicomponent targeting chemoimmune drug delivery system for reprograming the tumor microenvironment and personalized cancer therapy

Nanoparticle library engineered with tunable size, shape, and geometry will provide a better idea of targeting multicomponent of tumor microenvironment consisting of epithelial cells, tumor hypoxia, tumor immune cells and angiogenic blood vessels.

Copper-Free 'Click' Chemistry-Based Synthesis and Characterization of Carbonic Anhydrase-IX Anchored Albumin-Paclitaxel Nanoparticles for Targeting Tumor Hypoxia

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a difficult to treat disease due to the absence of the three unique receptors estrogen, progesterone and herceptin-2 (HER-2). To improve the current therapy and overcome the resistance of TNBC, there is unmet need to develop an effective targeted therapy. In this regard, one of the logical and economical approaches is to develop a tumor hypoxia-targeting drug formulation platform for selective delivery of payload to the drug-resistant and invasive cell population of TNBC tumors. Toward this, we developed a Carbonic Anhydrase IX (CA IX) receptor targeting human serum albumin (HSA) carriers to deliver the potent anticancer drug, Paclitaxel (PTX). We used Acetazolamide (ATZ), a small molecule ligand of CA IX to selectively deliver HSA-PTX in TNBC cells. A novel method of synthesis involving copper free ‘click’ chemistry (Dibenzocyclooctyl, DBCO) moiety with an azide-labeled reaction partner, known as Strain-Promoted Alkyne Azide Cycloaddition (SPAAC) along with a desolvation method for PTX loading were used in the present study to arrive at the CA IX selective nano-carriers, HSA-PTX-ATZ. The anticancer effect of HSA-PTX-ATZ is higher compared to HSA, PTX and non-targeted HSA-PTX in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. The cell killing effect is associated with induction of early and late phases of apoptosis. Overall, our proof-of-concept study shows a promising avenue for hypoxia-targeted drug delivery that can be adapted to several types of cancers.

Augmentation of therapeutic potential of curcumin using nanotechnology: current perspectives

Curcumin, an active principle of Curcuma longa, is extracted from the rhizome. Its therapeutic efficiency has been proved using various in vitro and in vivo models. Inflammatory, neoplastic and preneoplastic diseases are the major targets using curcumin as therapeutic agent. Feasible clinical formulations could not be obtained because of its lack of solubility, stability and higher degradation rate. Recently, many techniques have been evolved to improve the physicochemical properties of pharmacological compounds, thereby increasing their biological activity. Curcumin has been developed using various techniques, particularly micro and nanotechnology to improve its stability and bioavailability. This review focuses on the studies pertaining to the delivery of curcumin in the form of micro and nanosize formulations for the treatment of a variety of diseases.

Nanotechnologies in Pancreatic Cancer Therapy

Pancreatic cancer has been classified as a cancer of unmet need. After diagnosis the patient prognosis is dismal with few surviving over 5 years. Treatment regimes are highly patient variable and often the patients are too sick to undergo surgical resection or chemotherapy. These chemotherapies are not effective often because patients are diagnosed at late stages and tumour metastasis has occurred. Nanotechnology can be used in order to formulate potent anticancer agents to improve their physicochemical properties such as poor aqueous solubility or prolong circulation times after administration resulting in improved efficacy. Studies have reported the use of nanotechnologies to improve the efficacy of gemcitabine (the current first line treatment) as well as investigating the potential of using other drug molecules which have previously shown promise but were unable to be utilised due to the inability to administer through appropriate routes-often related to solubility. Of the nanotechnologies reported, many can offer site specific targeting to the site of action as well as a plethora of other multifunctional properties such as image guidance and controlled release. This review focuses on the use of the major nanotechnologies both under pre-clinical development and those which have recently been approved for use in pancreatic cancer therapy.

A CARP-1 functional mimetic loaded vitamin E-TPGS micellar nano-formulation for inhibition of renal cell carcinoma

Current treatments for Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) include a combination of surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Emergence of resistant RCCs contributes to failure of drugs and poor prognosis, and thus warrants development of new and improved treatment options for RCCs. Here we generated and characterized RCC cells that are resistant to Everolimus, a frontline mToR-targeted therapy, and tested whether our novel class of CARP-1 functional mimetic (CFM) compounds inhibit parental and Everolimus-resistant RCC cells. CFMs inhibited RCC cell viability in a dose-dependent manner that was comparable to Everolimus treatments. The GI₅₀ dose of Everolimus for parental A498 cells was ∼1.2μM while it was <0.02μM for the parental UOK262 and UOK268 cells. The GI₅₀ dose for Everolimus-resistant A498, UOK262, and UOK268 cells were ≥10.0μM, 1.8-7.0μM, and 7.0-≥10.0μM, respectively. CFM-4 and its novel analog CFM-4.16 inhibited viabilities of Everolimus resistant RCC cells albeit CFM-4.16 was more effective than CFM-4. CFM-dependent loss of RCC cell viabilities was due in part to reduced cyclin B1 levels, activation of pro-apoptotic, stress-activated protein kinases (SAPKs), and apoptosis. CFM-4.16 suppressed growth of resistant RCC cells in three-dimensional suspension cultures. However, CFMs are hydrophobic and their intravenous administration and dose escalation for in-vivo studies remain challenging. In this study, we encapsulated CFM-4.16 in Vitamin-E TPGS-based- nanomicelles that resulted in its water-soluble formulation with higher CFM-4.16 loading (30% w/w). This CFM-4.16 formulation inhibited viability of parental and Everolimus-resistant RCC cells in vitro, and suppressed growth of parental A498 RCC-cell-derived xenografts in part by stimulating apoptosis. These findings portent promising therapeutic potential of CFM-4.16 for treatment of RCCs.

Cucurmin, anticancer, & antitumor perspectives: A comprehensive review

Cucurmin, a naturally yellow component isolated from turmeric, ability to prevent various life-style related disorders. The current review article mainly emphasizes on different anticancer perspectives of cucurmin, i.e., colon, cervical, uterine, ovarian, prostate head and neck, breast, pulmonary, stomach and gastric, pancreatic, bladder oral, oesophageal, and bone cancer. It holds a mixture of strong bioactive molecule known as cucurminoids that has ability to reduce cancer/tumor at initial, promotion and progression stages of tumor development. In particular, these compounds block several enzymes required for the growth of tumors and may therefore involve in tumor treatments. Moreover, it modulates an array of cellular progressions, i.e., nitric oxide synthetase activity, protein kinase C activity, epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor intrinsic kinase activity, nuclear factor kappa (NF-kB) activity, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and production of reactive oxygen species. However, current manuscript summarizes most of the recent investigations of cucurmin but still further research should be conducted to explore the role of curcumin to mitigate various cancers.

Folic acid conjugated polymeric micelles loaded with a curcumin difluorinated analog for targeting cervical and ovarian cancers

The current study utilizes folic acid conjugated poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride) block copolymer (FA-SMA) to enhance the solubility of a hydrophobic but very potent synthetic curcumin-difluorinated (CDF) analog and its targeted delivery to folate receptor-alpha overexpressing cancers. The nanomicelles showed high aqueous solubility. Importantly, the encapsulation of CDF in nanomicelles resulted in high photo-stability of the otherwise photo-labile drug. When the nanomicelles were tested in folate-receptor overexpressing ovarian and cervical cancer cells they exhibited high anticancer activity causing significant cell population to undergo apoptosis due to upregulation of tumor suppressor phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and inhibition of nuclear factor kappa-B (NFκB), which further confirmed the targeting ability and anticancer potentials of folate-targeted formulations.

Folate Decorated Nanomicelles Loaded with a Potent Curcumin Analogue for Targeting Retinoblastoma

The aim of this study was to develop a novel folate receptor-targeted drug delivery system for retinoblastoma cells using a promising anticancer agent, curcumin-difluorinated (CDF), loaded in polymeric micelles. Folic acid was used as a targeting moiety to enhance the targeting and bioavailability of CDF. For this purpose, amphiphilic poly(styrene-co-maleic acid)-conjugated-folic acid (SMA-FA) was synthesized and utilized to improve the aqueous solubility of a highly hydrophobic, but very potent anticancer compound, CDF, and its targeted delivery to folate overexpressing cancers. The SMA-FA conjugate was first synthesized and characterized by ¹H NMR, FTIR and DSC. Furthermore, the chromatographic condition (HPLC) for estimating CDF was determined and validated. The formulation was optimized to achieve maximum entrapment of CDF. The particle size of the micelles was measured and confirmed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Cytotoxicity studies were conducted on (Y-79 and WERI-RB) retinoblastoma cells. Results showed that the solubility of CDF could be increased with the newly-synthesized polymer, and the entrapment efficiency was >85%. The drug-loaded nanomicelles exhibited an appropriate size of <200 nm and a narrow size distribution. The formulation did not show any adverse cytotoxicity on a human retinal pigment epithelial cell (ARPE-19), indicating its safety. However, it showed significant cell killing activity in both Y-79 and WERI-RB retinoblastoma cell lines, indicating its potency in killing cancer cells. In conclusion, the folic acid-conjugated SMA loaded with CDF showed promising potential with high safety and pronounced anticancer activity on the tested retinoblastoma cell lines. The newly-formulated targeted nanomicelles thus could be a viable option as an alternative approach to current retinoblastoma therapies.

Polyvalent Folate-Dendrimer-Coated Iron Oxide Theranostic Nanoparticles for Simultaneous Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Precise Cancer Cell Targeting

The low therapeutic index of conventional chemotherapy and poor prognosis of patients diagnosed with metastatic cancers are prompting clinicians to adopt newer strategies to simultaneously detect cancer lesions at an early stage and to precisely deliver anticancer drugs to tumor sites. In this study, we employed a novel strategy to engineer a polyvalent theranostic nanocarrier consisting of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle core (SPIONs) decorated with folic acid-polyamidoamine dendrimers surface (FA-PAMAM). In addition, a highly potent hydrophobic anticancer agent 3,4-difluorobenzylidene-curcumin (CDF) was coloaded in the FA-PAMAM dendrimer to increase its solubility and assess its therapeutic potentials. The resulting targeted nanoparticles (SPIONs@FA-PAMAM-CDF) exhibited high MR contrast. When tested on folate receptor overexpressing ovarian (SKOV3) and cervical (HeLa) cancer cells, the CDF loaded targeted nanoformulations showed higher accumulation with a better anticancer activity as compared to the nontargeted counterparts, possibly due to multivalent folate receptor binding interaction with cells overexpressing the target. The results were corroborated by observation of a larger population of cells undergoing apoptosis due to upregulation of tumor suppressor phosphatase and tensis homologue (PTEN), caspase 3, and inhibition of NF-κB in groups treated with the targeted formulations, which further confirmed the ability of the multivalent theranostic nanoparticles for simultaneous imaging and therapy of cancers.