Pectin mediated gold nanoparticles induces apoptosis in mammary adenocarcinoma cell lines

Ultrasound-Driven Deposition of Au and Ag Nanoparticles on Citrus Pectin: Preparation and Characterisation of Antimicrobial Composites

Pectin is a renewable, non-toxic and biodegradable polymer made of galacturonic acid units. Its polar groups make it suitable for complexing and supporting metallic nanoparticles (NPs). This work aimed to produce antibacterial nanocomposites using pectin and acoustic cavitation. The metal NPs (Au or Ag) were deposited using ultrasound (US, 21 kHz, 50 W) and compared with those achieved with mechanical stirring. The impact of the reducing agents (NaBH4, ascorbic acid) on the dispersion and morphology of the resulting NPs was also assessed. Characterization by diffuse reflectance (DR) UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) showed that the use of US improves the dispersion and decreases the size of both Au and Ag NPs. Moreover, with Au NPs, avoiding external reductants led to smaller NPs and more uniform in size. The prepared NPs were functionalized with oxytetracycline in water and tested against Escherichia coli (gram negative) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (gram positive) via the Kirby-Bauer test. The results show a better antibacterial activity of the functionalized nanoparticles compared to antibiotic-free NPs and pure oxytetracycline, advising the potential of the nanoparticles as drug carriers. These findings underscore the significance of US-assisted synthesis, paving the way to new environmentally friendly antimicrobial materials.

HAuCl4-mediated green synthesis of highly stable Au NPs from natural active polysaccharides: Synthetic mechanism and antioxidant property

Polysaccharide-functionalized gold nanoparticles (Polysaccharide-Au NPs) with high stability were successfully prepared by a straightforward method. Notably, the Au (III) ion acts as a strong Lewis acid to facilitate glycosidic bond breaking. Subsequently, the polysaccharide conformation was transformed to an open-chain form, exposing highly reduced aldehyde or ketone groups that reduce Au (III) to Au (0) crystal species, further growing into Au NPs. As-prepared Au NPs displayed excellent stability over a longer storage period (more than 70 days), a wide range of temperatures (25-60 °C), and pH range (3-11), varying concentrations (0-200 mM) and types of salt ions (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+), and glutathione solutions (5 mM). More interestingly, polysaccharide-Au NPs retained the antioxidant activity of polysaccharides and reduced oxidative damage at the cellular level through decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The intracellular levels of ROS pretreated with polysaccharide and polysaccharide-Au NPs were decreased 53.12-75.85 % compared to the H2O2 group, respectively. Therefore, the green synthesized Au NPs from natural active polysaccharides exhibit potential applications in biomedical fields.

Recent progress and treatment strategy of pectin polysaccharide based tissue engineering scaffolds in cancer therapy, wound healing and cartilage regeneration

Natural polymers and its mixtures in the form of films, sponges and hydrogels are playing a major role in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Hydrogels have been extensively investigated as standalone materials for drug delivery purposes as they enable effective encapsulation and sustained release of drugs. Biopolymers are widely utilised in the fabrication of hydrogels due to their safety, biocompatibility, low toxicity, and regulated breakdown by human enzymes. Among all the biopolymers, polysaccharide-based polymer is well suited to overcome the limitations of traditional wound dressing materials. Pectin is a polysaccharide which can be extracted from different plant sources and is used in various pharmaceutical and biomedical applications including cartilage regeneration. Pectin itself cannot be employed as scaffolds for tissue engineering since it decomposes quickly. This article discusses recent research and developments on pectin polysaccharide, including its types, origins, applications, and potential demands for use in AI-mediated scaffolds. It also covers the materials-design process, strategy for implementation to material selection and fabrication methods for evaluation. Finally, we discuss unmet requirements and current obstacles in the development of optimal materials for wound healing and bone-tissue regeneration, as well as emerging strategies in the field.

Modified pectin with anticancer activity in breast cancer: A systematic review

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. The current pharmacological treatments for breast cancer have numerous adverse effects and are not always effective. Recently, the anticancer activity of modified pectins (MPs) against various types of cancers, including breast cancer, has been investigated. This systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) model, including scientific articles from the last 22 years that measured the anticancer activity of MPs on breast cancer. The articles were searched in four databases with the terms: "modified pectin" and "breast cancer". Nine articles were included, five in vitro and four mixed (in vitro and in vivo). Different models and methods by which anticancer activity was measured were analyzed. All the studies reported positive results in both cell lines and in vivo murine models of breast cancer. The extracted data suggest a positive effect and provide mechanistic evidence of MPs in the treatment of breast cancer. However, as limited number of studies were included, further in vivo studies are required to obtain more conclusive preclinical evidence.

Biological Properties and Biomedical Applications of Pectin and Pectin-Based Composites: A Review

Pectin has recently drawn much attention in biomedical applications due to its distinctive chemical and biological properties. Polymers like pectin with cell-instructive properties are attractive natural biomaterials for tissue repair and regeneration. In addition, bioactive pectin and pectin-based composites exhibit improved characteristics to deliver active molecules. Pectin and pectin-based composites serve as interactive matrices or scaffolds by stimulating cell adhesion and cell proliferation and enhancing tissue remodeling by forming an extracellular matrix in vivo. Several bioactive properties, such as immunoregulatory, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and antioxidant activities, contribute to the pectin's and pectin-based composite's enhanced applications in tissue engineering and drug delivery systems. Tissue engineering scaffolds containing pectin and pectin-based conjugates or composites demonstrate essential features such as nontoxicity, tunable mechanical properties, biodegradability, and suitable surface properties. The design and fabrication of pectic composites are versatile for tissue engineering and drug delivery applications. This article reviews the promising characteristics of pectin or pectic polysaccharides and pectin-based composites and highlights their potential biomedical applications, focusing on drug delivery and tissue engineering.

Polysaccharide-based gold nanomaterials: Synthesis mechanism, polysaccharide structure-effect, and anticancer activity

Polysaccharide-based gold nanomaterials have attracted great interest in biomedical fields such as cancer therapy and immunomodulation due to their prolonged residence time in vivo and enhanced immune response. This review aims to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive summary of polysaccharide-based Au NMs synthesis, including mechanisms, polysaccharide structure-effects, and anticancer activity. Firstly, research progress on the synthesis mechanism of polysaccharide-based Au NMs was addressed, which included three types based on the variety of polysaccharides and reaction environment: breaking of glycosidic bonds via Au (III) or base-mediated production of highly reduced intermediates, reduction of free hydroxyl groups in polysaccharide molecules, and reduction of free amino groups in polysaccharide molecules. Then, the potential effects of polysaccharide structure characteristics (molecular weight, composition of monosaccharides, functional groups, glycosidic bonds, and chain conformation) and reaction conditions (the reaction temperature, reaction time, pH, concentration of gold precursor and polysaccharides) on the size and shape of Au NMs were explored. Finally, the current status of polysaccharide-based Au NMs cancer therapy was summarized before reaching our conclusions and perspectives.

Sustainable approaches on industrial food wastes to value-added products - A review on extraction methods, characterizations, and its biomedical applications

The concept of zero waste discharge has been gaining importance in recent years towards attaining a sustainable environment. Fruit processing industries generate millions of tons of byproducts like fruit peels and seeds, and their disposal poses an environmental threat. The concept of extracting value-added bioactive compounds from bio-waste is an excellent opportunity to mitigate environmental issues. To date, significant research has been carried out on the extraction of essential biomolecules, particularly polysaccharides from waste generated by fruit processing industries. In this review article, we aim to summarize the different extraction methodologies, characterization methods, and biomedical applications of polysaccharides extracted from seeds and peels of different fruit sources. The review also focuses on the general scheme of extraction of polysaccharides from fruit waste with special emphasis on various methods used in extraction. Also, the various types of polysaccharides obtained from fruit processing industrial wastes are explained in consonance with the important techniques related to the structural elucidation of polysaccharides obtained from seed and peel waste. The use of seed polysaccharides as pharmaceutical excipients and the application of peel polysaccharides possessing biological activities are also elaborated.

Mechanism and Antibacterial Activity of Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs) Functionalized with Natural Compounds from Plants

Recently, the biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) has been widely studied and described. In the age of bacterial drug resistance, an intensive search for new agents with antibacterial properties or a new form of antibiotics with effective action is necessary. As a result, the antibacterial activity of AuNPs functionalized with natural compounds is being investigated more frequently. AuNPs biosynthesized with plant extract or functionalized with bioactive compounds isolated from plants could be particularly useful for pharmaceutical applications. The biosynthesized AuNPs are stabilized by an envelope, which may consist of flavonoids, phenolic acids, lipids and proteins as well as carbohydrates and vitamins. The composition of the natural coating affects the size, shape and stability of the AuNPs and is also responsible for interactions with the bacterial cell wall. Recently, several mechanisms of AuNP interactions with bacterial cells have been identified. Nevertheless, they are not yet well understood, due to the large diversity of plants and biosynthesized AuNPs. Understanding the antibacterial mechanisms allows for the creation of pharmaceutical formulations in the most useful form. Utilizing AuNPs functionalized with plant compounds as antibacterial agents is still a new concept. However, the unique physicochemical and biological properties of AuNPs emphasises their potential for a broad range of applications in the future.

Pectin: A Bioactive Food Polysaccharide with Cancer Preventive Potential

Pectin is an acidic heteropolysaccharide found in the cell walls and the primary and middle lamella of land plants. To be authorized as a food additive, industrial pectins must meet strict guidelines set forth by the Food and Agricultural Organization and must contain at least 65% polygalacturonic acid to achieve the E440 level. Fruit pectin derived from oranges or apples is commonly used in the food industry to gel or thicken foods and to stabilize acid-based milk beverages. It is a naturally occurring component and can be ingested by dietary consumption of fruit and vegetables. Preventing long-term chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease is an important role of dietary carbohydrates. Colon and breast cancer are among the diseases for which data suggest that modified pectin (MP), specifically modified citrus pectin (MCP), has beneficial effects on the development and spread of malignancies, in addition to its benefits as a soluble dietary fiber. Cellular and animal studies and human clinical trials have provided corroborating data. Although pectin has many diverse functional qualities, this review focuses on various modifications used to develop MP and its benefits for cancer prevention, bioavailability, clinical trials, and toxicity studies. This review concludes that pectin has anti-cancer characteristics that have been found to inhibit tumor development and proliferation in a wide variety of cancer cells. Nevertheless, further clinical and basic research is required to confirm the chemopreventive or therapeutic role of specific dietary carbohydrate molecules.

Plant Extract-Based Synthesis of Metallic Nanomaterials, Their Applications, and Safety Concerns

Nanotechnology has attracted the attention of researchers from different scientific fields because of the escalated properties of nanomaterials compared with the properties of macromolecules. Nanomaterials can be prepared through different approaches involving physical and chemical methods. The development of nanomaterials through plant-based green chemistry approaches is more advantageous than other methods from the perspectives of environmental safety, animal, and human health. The biomolecules and metabolites of plants act as reducing and capping agents for the synthesis of metallic green nanomaterials. Plant-based synthesis is a preferred approach as it is not only cost-effective, easy, safe, clean, and eco-friendly but also provides pure nanomaterials in high yield. Since nanomaterials have antimicrobial and antioxidant potential, green nanomaterials synthesized from plants can be used for a variety of biomedical and environmental remediation applications. Past studies have focused mainly on the overall biogenic synthesis of individual or combinations of metallic nanomaterials and their oxides from different biological sources, including microorganisms and biomolecules. Moreover, from the viewpoint of biomedical applications, the literature is mainly focusing on synthetic nanomaterials. Herein, we discuss the extraction of green molecules and recent developments in the synthesis of different plant-based metallic nanomaterials, including silver, gold, platinum, palladium, copper, zinc, iron, and carbon. Apart from the biomedical applications of metallic nanomaterials, including antimicrobial, anticancer, diagnostic, drug delivery, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine applications, their environmental remediation potential is also discussed. Furthermore, safety concerns and safety regulations pertaining to green nanomaterials are also discussed. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Structural features and anticancer mechanisms of pectic polysaccharides: A review

The anticancer activity of pectic polysaccharides (PPs) was proved by numerous studies, and which also indicated that the bioactivity of PPs was closely related to its complicated structures. Based on the summary and analysis about structure characteristics and corresponding enzymatic process of the reported PPs, the anticancer mechanism and related structural features were systematically clarified. It was found that not only the direct effects on the cancer cells by proliferation inhibition or apoptosis, but also the regulation of immune system, gut microbiota and gut metabolism as indirect effects, jointly played important roles in the anticancer of PPs. Nevertheless, during the study of PPs as promising anticancer components, the exact structure-function relationship, digestion process in vivo, and comprehensive action mechanism are still not well understanding. With the unveiling of the proposed issues, it is believed that PPs are promising to be exploited as effective cancer therapy/adjunctive therapy drugs or functional foods.

Nanocarriers for anticancer drugs: challenges and perspectives

Cancer is the second most common cause of death globally, surpassed only by cardiovascular disease. One of the hallmarks of cancer is uncontrolled cell division and resistance to cell death. Multiple approaches have been developed to tackle this disease, including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Although chemotherapy is used primarily to control cell division and induce cell death, some cancer cells are able to resist apoptosis and develop tolerance to these drugs. The side effects of chemotherapy are often overwhelming, and patients can experience more adverse effects than benefits. Furthermore, the bioavailability and stability of drugs used for chemotherapy are crucial issues that must be addressed, and there is therefore a high demand for a reliable delivery system that ensures fast and accurate targeting of treatment. In this review, we discuss the different types of nanocarriers, their properties and recent advances in formulations, with respect to relevant advantages and disadvantages of each.

Green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles using pectin as a reducing agent: a systematic review of the biological activities

CONTEXT

Pectin is a plant heteropolysaccharide that is biocompatible and biodegradable, enabling it to be an excellent reducing agent (green synthesis) for metallic nanoparticles (MNPs). Nevertheless, in the biological industry, pectin has been left behind in synthesising MNPs, for no known reason.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the biological activities of pectin synthesised MNPs (Pe-MNPs).

METHODS

The databases Springer Link, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, PubMed, Mendeley, and ResearchGate were systematically searched from the date of their inception until 10^th February 2020. Pectin, green synthesis, metallic nanoparticles, reducing agent and biological activities were among the key terms searched. The data extraction was focussed on the biological activities of Pe-MNPs and reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations for systematic reviews.

RESULTS

A total of 15 studies outlined 7 biological activities of Pe-MNPs in the only three metals that have been explored, namely silver (Ag), gold (Au) and cerium oxide (CeO₂). The activities reported from the in vitro and in vivo studies were antimicrobial (9 studies), anticancer (2 studies), drug carrier (3 studies), non-toxic (4 studies), antioxidant (2 studies), wound healing (1 study) and anti-inflammation (1 study).

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review demonstrates the current state of the art of Pe-MNPs biological activities, suggesting that Ag and Au have potent antibacterial and anticancer/chemotherapeutic drug carrier activity, respectively. Further in vitro, in vivo, and clinical research is crucial for a better understanding of the pharmacological potential of pectin synthesised MNPs.

Functional Profiling and Future Research Direction of Rice Bran Oil in Bangladesh

Rice bran oil (RBO) has been demonstrated to affect complex malfunctioned conditions such as oxidative stress, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, hypertension, inflammation, abnormal cell growth (cancer), ulceration, immune and cognitive modulation. This unique effect of RBO is due to the presence of well-balanced fatty acid composition and several bioactive compounds, γ- oryzanol (cycloartenyl ferulate, 24-methylenecycloartanyl ferulate, campesterol ferulate, and β-sitosteryl ferulate), vitamin E (tocopherol and tocotrienol), phytosterols (β-sitosterol, campesterol and stigmasterol) and other nutrients. The RBO composition of bioactive compounds varied geographically, thus the clear-cut mechanisms of action on complex disease cascades are still required. This review article summarized the RBO compositional profiling and compared it with other edible oils. This article also summarized Bangladesh RBO profiling and their proposed mechanism of action as well as the first line of defense in the prevention, management, and control of complex disease conditions. This review indicates how Bangladesh RBO increase their opportunity to be functional food for 21st century's ailment.

ANALYSIS OF CARBOHYDRATES AND GLYCOCONJUGATES BY MATRIX-ASSISTED LASER DESORPTION/IONIZATION MASS SPECTROMETRY: AN UPDATE FOR 2015-2016

This review is the ninth update of the original article published in 1999 on the application of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry to the analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates and brings coverage of the literature to the end of 2016. Also included are papers that describe methods appropriate to analysis by MALDI, such as sample preparation techniques, even though the ionization method is not MALDI. Topics covered in the first part of the review include general aspects such as theory of the MALDI process, matrices, derivatization, MALDI imaging, fragmentation and arrays. The second part of the review is devoted to applications to various structural types such as oligo- and poly-saccharides, glycoproteins, glycolipids, glycosides and biopharmaceuticals. Much of this material is presented in tabular form. The third part of the review covers medical and industrial applications of the technique, studies of enzyme reactions and applications to chemical synthesis. The reported work shows increasing use of combined new techniques such as ion mobility and the enormous impact that MALDI imaging is having. MALDI, although invented over 30 years ago is still an ideal technique for carbohydrate analysis and advancements in the technique and range of applications show no sign of deminishing. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lignin, lipid, protein, hyaluronic acid, starch, cellulose, gum, pectin, alginate and chitosan-based nanomaterials for cancer nanotherapy: Challenges and opportunities

Although nanotechnology-driven drug delivery systems are relatively new, they are rapidly evolving since the nanomaterials are deployed as effective means of diagnosis and delivery of assorted therapeutic agents to targeted intracellular sites in a controlled release manner. Nanomedicine and nanoparticulate drug delivery systems are rapidly developing as they play crucial roles in the development of therapeutic strategies for various types of cancer and malignancy. Nevertheless, high costs, associated toxicity and production of complexities are some of the critical barriers for their applications. Green nanomedicines have continually been improved as one of the viable approaches towards tumor drug delivery, thus making a notable impact on which considerably affect cancer treatment. In this regard, the utilization of natural and renewable feedstocks as a starting point for the fabrication of nanosystems can considerably contribute to the development of green nanomedicines. Nanostructures and biopolymers derived from natural and biorenewable resources such as proteins, lipids, lignin, hyaluronic acid, starch, cellulose, gum, pectin, alginate, and chitosan play vital roles in the development of cancer nanotherapy, imaging and management. This review uncovers recent investigations on diverse nanoarchitectures fabricated from natural and renewable feedstocks for the controlled/sustained and targeted drug/gene delivery systems against cancers including an outlook on some of the scientific challenges and opportunities in this field. Various important natural biopolymers and nanomaterials for cancer nanotherapy are covered and the scientific challenges and opportunities in this field are reviewed.

Eco-friendly and enhanced colorimetric detection of aluminum ions using pectin-rich apple extract-based gold nanoparticles

Aluminum ions are very toxic to human health, especially in relation to neurodegenerative diseases. However, conventional methods of detecting such toxic ions suffer from the use of poisonous chemical probes and complex processes. Herein, we report an eco-friendly and enhanced colorimetric method of aluminum ion detection using green-synthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) from apple (Malus domestica) extract. The apple extract-based AuNPs (AX-AuNPs) contain abundant pectin different from citrate-based AuNPs. The pectin-rich AX-AuNPs improved the sensitivity of the colorimetric detection of aluminum ions. The detection limit was about 20 μM both in artificial and drinking water-based real samples. Interestingly, it is turned out that the AX-AuNPs were aggregated naturally after the chemical assay because of solution getting decayed. For the environmental perspective, it was great that the lump of AX-AuNP aggregates could easily be removed from the solutions before solution discard. Overall, our results indicate that AX-AuNPs offer a high-selectivity, enhanced colorimetric detection of aluminum ions in a short time (less than 1 min), based on an eco-friend synthesis and disposal manner of AuNPs.

Drug nanodelivery systems based on natural polysaccharides against different diseases

Drug nanodelivery systems (DNDSs) are fascinated cargos to achieve outstanding therapeutic results of various drugs or natural bioactive compounds owing to their unique structures. The efficiency of several pharmaceutical drugs or natural bioactive ingredients is restricted because of their week bioavailability, poor bioaccessibility and pharmacokinetics after orally pathways. In order to handle such constraints, usage of native/natural polysaccharides (NPLS) in fabrication of DNDSs has gained more popularity in the arena of nanotechnology for controlled drug delivery to enhance safety, biocompatibility, better retention time, bioavailability, lower toxicity and enhanced permeability. The main commonly used NPLS in nanoencapsulation systems include chitosan, pectin, alginates, cellulose, starches, and gums recognized as potential materials for fabrication of cargos. Herein, this review is centered on different polysaccharide-based nanocarriers including nanoemulsions, nanohydrogels, nanoliposomes, nanoparticles and nanofibers, which have already served as encouraging candidates for entrapment of therapeutic drugs as well as for their sustained controlled release. Furthermore, the current article explicitly offers comprehensive details regarding application of NPLS-based nanocarriers encapsulating several drugs intended for the handling of numerous disorders, including diabetes, cancer, HIV, malaria, cardiovascular and respiratory as well as skin diseases.

Noble Metal Nanoparticles in Pectin Matrix. Preparation, Film Formation, Property Analysis, and Application in Electrocatalysis

Stable polymeric materials with embedded nano-objects, retaining their specific properties, are indispensable for the development of nanotechnology. Here, a method to obtain Pt, Pd, Au, and Ag nanoparticles (ca. 10 nm, independent of the metal) by the reduction of their ions in pectin, in the absence of additional reducing agents, is described. Specific interactions between the pectin functional groups and nanoparticles were detected, and they depend on the metal. Bundles and protruding nanoparticles are present on the surface of nanoparticles/pectin films. These films, deposited on the electrode surface, exhibit electrochemical response, characteristic for a given metal. Their electrocatalytic activity toward the oxidation of a few exemplary organic molecules was demonstrated. In particular, a synergetic effect of simultaneously prepared Au and Pt nanoparticles in pectin films on glucose electro-oxidation was found.

Emerging Antineoplastic Biogenic Gold Nanomaterials for Breast Cancer Therapeutics: A Systematic Review

Breast cancer remains as a concerning global health issue, being the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States (US) in 2019. Therefore, there is an urgent and substantial need to explore novel strategies to combat breast cancer. A potential solution may come from the use of cancer nanotechnology, an innovative field of study which investigates the potential of nanomaterials for cancer diagnosis, therapy, and theranostic applications. Consequently, the theranostic functionality of cancer nanotechnology has been gaining much attention between scientists during the past few years and is growing exponentially. The use of biosynthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) has been explored as an efficient mechanism for the treatment of breast cancer. The present study supposed a global systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of biogenic AuNPs for the treatment of breast cancer and their anticancer molecular mechanisms through in vitro studies. Online electronic databases, including Cochrane, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, ProQuest, and Embase, were searched for the articles published up to July 16, 2019. Our findings revealed that plant-mediated synthesis was the most common approach for the generation of AuNPs. Most of the studies reported spherical or nearly spherical-shaped AuNPs with a mean diameter less than 100 nm in size. A significantly larger cytotoxicity was observed when the biogenic AuNPs were tested towards breast cancer cells compared to healthy cells. Moreover, biogenic AuNPs demonstrated significant synergistic activity in combination with other anticancer drugs through in vitro studies. Although we provided strong and comprehensive preliminary in vitro data, further in vivo investigations are required to show the reliability and efficacy of these NPs in animal models.

Biosynthesis, Characterization, and Evaluation of the Cytotoxic Effects of Biologically Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles from Cyperus conglomeratus Root Extracts on Breast Cancer Cell Line MCF-7

Over recent years, metal nanoparticles have largely been investigated due to their potential activities. This study focused on synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the desert plant Cyperus conglomeratus, which is the most abundant species on the sand dunes in the UAE, and their anticancer activity. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV-visible spectra, X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and scanning electron microscope. The results showed that the AgNPs are monodispersed and mostly spherical in shape. The cytotoxicity effects were investigated against breast cancer cells MCF-7 and normal fibroblast using MTT assay which showed selective cytotoxicity against MCF-7 with an IC50 at 5 μg/mL but not fibroblast. Moreover, the apoptotic effects were confirmed using annexin V-FITC-PI double staining kit and real-time PCR for apoptotic genes. Therefore, our results revealed potential anticancer applications of the C. conglomeratus biosynthesized silver nanoparticles.

In vitro and in silico molecular interaction of multiphase nanoparticles containing inositol hexaphosphate and jacalin: Therapeutic potential against colon cancer cells (HCT-15)

Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) is a natural constituent found in almost all cereals and legumes. It is known to cause numerous antiangiogenic manifestations. Notwithstanding its great potential, it is underutilized due to the chelation and rapid excretion from the body. Jacalin is another natural constituent obtained from seeds of jackfruit and can target disaccharides overexpressed in tumor cells. The current study was in-quested to develop and evaluate a surface-modified gold nanoparticulate system containing IP6 and jacalin which may maximize the apoptotic effect of IP6 against HCT-15 cell lines. IP6 loaded jacalin-pectin-gold nanoparticles (IJP-GNPs) were developed through reduction followed by incubation method. The developed formulation was tested for various in vitro and in silico studies to investigate its potential. HCT-15 cells when exposed to IJP-GNP resulted in significant apoptotic effects in dose as well as time-dependent manner, as measured using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, micronucleus, and reactive oxygen species assay. IJP-GNP displayed cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. To further explore the mechanism of chemoprevention, in silico studies were performed. The docking results revealed that the interactive behavior of IP6, P-GNP, and jacalin could target and inhibit the tumor formation activity, supported by in vitro studies. Taken together, all the findings suggested that IP6 loaded nanoparticles may increase the hope of future drug delivery strategy for targeting colon cancer.

Green synthesis of polysaccharide-based inorganic nanoparticles and biomedical aspects

Biologically mediated inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) are considered as a green, cheap, and environmental-friendly materials, which connect the nanotechnology and biomedical sciences. Metallic NPs such as gold and silver NPs, synthesized using natural materials are an important branch of inorganic NPs with catalytic functionalities and a diverse range of biomedical applications such as antimicrobial application. Polysaccharides are excellent candidates to stabilize and control the size of NPs during the synthesis process. These polymers possess multiple binding sites, which facilitate attachment to the metal surface. As a result, polysaccharides can effectively create an organic-inorganic network of the metal NPs and confer a significant protection against aggregation and chemical modifications. This chapter discusses the methods of the preparation of polysaccharide-mediated NPs and reviews various types and diverse applications for these novel materials.

Biological Activity and Pharmacological Application of Pectic Polysaccharides: A Review

Pectin is a polymer with a core of alternating α-1,4-linked d-galacturonic acid and α-1,2-l-rhamnose units, as well as a variety of neutral sugars such as arabinose, galactose, and lesser amounts of other sugars. Currently, native pectins have been compared to modified ones due to the development of natural medicines and health products. In this review, the results of a study of the bioactivity of pectic polysaccharides, including its various pharmacological applications, such as its immunoregulatory, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, antibacterial, antioxidant and antitumor activities, have been summarized. The potential of pectins to contribute to the enhancement of drug delivery systems has been observed.

Cytotoxicity of two water-soluble polysaccharides from Codonopsis pilosula Nannf. var. modesta (Nannf.) L.T.Shen against human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells and its mechanism

Two water-soluble polysaccharides named CPP1a and CPP1c were isolated from C. pilosula Nannf. var. modesta L.T.Shen by hot-water extraction and purified by graded alcohol precipitation and DEAE-52 cellulose column. The structure of CPP1c with higher yield has been characterized while its antitumor activities has not been elucidated. In this study, we firstly analyzed the chemical structure of CPP1a. The results of instrumental analysis combined with chemical analysis showed that CPP1a was composed of →1)- β‑l‑Rhap‑(4→, →1)- β‑Arap‑(5→, →1)- β‑d‑GalpA‑(4→, →1)- β‑d‑Galp‑(6→, terminal‑β‑d‑Glcp in a molar ratio of 1:12:1:10:3 and its relative and absolute molecular weight were 1.01 × 10⁵ Da and 1.03 × 10⁵ Da respectively. Further, the cytotoxicity assay indicated that CPP1a and CPP1c were more sensitive to HepG2 cells than cervical carcinoma Hela cells and gastric carcinoma MKN45 cells. Both of CPP1a and CPP1c could influence cell morphology, inhibit the migration and induce apoptosis by affecting the G2/M phase of HepG2 cells. Preliminary mechanism studies confirmed that CPP1a and CPP1c could induce apoptosis through up-regulating the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 and activating caspase-3. According to previous research, we might speculate that the reason for the stronger cytotoxicity and pro-apoptotic effect of CPP1c than that of CPP1a can be attributed to its high uronic acid content.

Cytotoxicity of Plant-Mediated Synthesis of Metallic Nanoparticles: A Systematic Review

In the field of medicine, nanomaterials, especially those derived using the green method, offer promise as anti-cancer agents and drug carriers. However, the biosafety of metallic nanoparticles used as anti-cancer agents remains a concern. The goal of this systematic review was to compare the cytotoxicity of different plant-mediated syntheses of metallic nanoparticles based on their potency, therapeutic index, and cancer cell type susceptibility in the hopes of identifying the most promising anti-cancer agents. A literature search of electronic databases including Science Direct, PubMed, Springer Link, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate, was conducted to obtain research articles. Keywords such as biosynthesis, plant synthesis, plant-mediated, metallic nanoparticle, cytotoxicity, and anticancer were used in the literature search. All types of research materials that met the inclusion criteria were included in the study regardless of whether the results were positive, negative, or null. The therapeutic index was used as a safety measure for the studied compound of interest. Data from 76 selected articles were extracted and synthesised. Seventy-two studies reported that the cytotoxicity of plant-mediated synthesis of metallic nanoparticles was time and/or dose-dependent. Biosynthesised silver nanoparticles demonstrated higher cytotoxicity potency compared to gold nanoparticles synthesised by the same plants (Plumbago zeylanica, Commelina nudiflora, and Cassia auriculata) irrespective of the cancer cell type tested. This review also identified a correlation between the nanoparticle size and morphology with the potency of cytotoxicity. Cytotoxicity was found to be inversely proportional to nanoparticle size. The plant-mediated syntheses of metallic nanoparticles were predominantly spherical or quasi-spherical, with the median lethal dose of 1⁻20 µg/mL. Nanoparticles with other shapes (triangular, hexagonal, and rods) were less potent. Metallic nanoparticles synthesised by Abutilon inducum, Butea monosperma, Gossypium hirsutum, Indoneesiella echioides, and Melia azedarach were acceptably safe as anti-cancer agents, as they had a therapeutic index of >2.0 when tested on both cancer cells and normal human cells. Most plant-mediated syntheses of metallic nanoparticles were found to be cytotoxic, although some were non-cytotoxic. The results from this study suggest a focus on a selected list of potential anti-cancer agents for further investigations of their pharmacodynamic/toxicodynamic and pharmacokinetic/toxicokinetic actions with the goal of reducing the Global Burden of Diseases and the second leading cause of mortality.

Biogenic gold nanoparticles synthesis mediated by Mangifera indica seed aqueous extracts exhibits antibacterial, anticancer and anti-angiogenic properties

During the last few decades, gold nanoparticles (AuNP's) have gained considerable attention in nanomedicine and expanded its application in clinical diagnosis and as therapeutics. Employing plant extract for synthesising gold nanoparticles proves to be an eco-friendly technology for large scale production. It is highly economical and suitable for biological applications by negating the use of chemicals involved in conventional route. In this study, AuNP's was prepared by a simple one step method of employing aqueous Mangifera indica seed extract as a reducing agent. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy revealed spherical shaped nanoparticles and dynamic light scattering analysis indicated the AuNP's to be approximately 46.8 nm in size. AuNP's efficiently inhibited the growth of E. coli and S. aureus by its inherent ability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and exhibited detrimental effects towards the tested bacterial species. Biocompatibility assessment indicated the non-toxic nature of AuNP's towards mesenchymal stem cells at 25 μg/ml and interestingly, suppressed the growth of human gastric cancer cells under in vitro culture conditions. AuNP's significantly exhibited anti-angiogenic property in chick chorioallantoic membrane model (CAM) by downregulating Ang-1/Tie2 pathway. Overall, the synthesized AuNP's exhibited antibacterial and anti-angiogenic properties with high biocompatibility thereby supporting its candidature for various biomedical applications. It can be employed in suppressing tumor growth, combat inflammatory diseases that necessitate the involvement of angiogenesis suppression, and antibacterial activity is suitable for its clinical translation to negate surgery associated infections.

Preparation, Characterization and Application of Polysaccharide-Based Metallic Nanoparticles: A Review

Polysaccharides are natural biopolymers that have been recognized to be the most promising hosts for the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) because of their outstanding biocompatible and biodegradable properties. Polysaccharides are diverse in size and molecular chains, making them suitable for the reduction and stabilization of MNPs. Considerable research has been directed toward investigating polysaccharide-based metallic nanoparticles (PMNPs) through host⁻guest strategy. In this review, approaches of preparation, including top-down and bottom-up approaches, are presented and compared. Different characterization techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and small-angle X-ray scattering are discussed in detail. Besides, the applications of PMNPs in the field of wound healing, targeted delivery, biosensing, catalysis and agents with antimicrobial, antiviral and anticancer capabilities are specifically highlighted. The controversial toxicological effects of PMNPs are also discussed. This review can provide significant insights into the utilization of polysaccharides as the hosts to synthesize MPNs and facilitate their further development in synthesis approaches, characterization techniques as well as potential applications.

Biogenic selenium nanoparticles induce ROS-mediated necroptosis in PC-3 cancer cells through TNF activation

BACKGROUND

Selenium is well documented to inhibit cancer at higher doses; however, the mechanism behind this inhibition varies widely depending on the cell type and selenium species. Previously, we have demonstrated that Bacillus licheniformis JS2 derived biogenic selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) induce non-apoptotic cell death in prostate adenocarcinoma cell line, PC-3, at a minimal concentration of 2 µg Se/ml, without causing toxicity to the primary cells. However, the mechanism behind its anticancer activity was elusive.

RESULTS

Our results have shown that these SeNPs at a concentration of 2 µg Se/ml were able to induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated necroptosis in PC-3 cells by gaining cellular internalization. Real-time qPCR analysis showed increased expression of necroptosis associated tumor necrotic factor (TNF) and interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1). An increased expression of RIP1 protein was also observed at the translational level upon SeNP treatment. Moreover, the cell viability was significantly increased in the presence of necroptosis inhibitor, Necrostatin-1.

CONCLUSION

Data suggest that our biogenic SeNPs induce cell death in PC-3 cells by the ROS-mediated activation of necroptosis, independent to RIP3 and MLKL, regulated by a RIP1 kinase.

Emerging concepts in the nutraceutical and functional properties of pectin-A Review

Pectin is a structural heteropolysaccharide found ubiquitously in terrestrial plants. It finds diverse food applications such as that of a gelling agent, stabilizer, and fat replacer. In the pharmaceutical arena, pectin exhibits a number of functions, from decreasing blood fat to combating various types of cancers. This review shows the shift of pectin from its conventional roles to its progressive applications. Insights into the advances in the production of pectin, the role it plays as a nutraceutical, possible prebiotic potential and a delivery vehicle for probiotics, and food applications are highlighted. Bioactive and functional properties of pectin are discussed and how the structural built up defines them, is emphasized. As a biopolymer, the applications of pectin in active packaging are also mentioned.