Advances in nanotechnology and nanomaterials based strategies for neural tissue engineering

Electroconductive Collagen-Carbon Nanodots Nanocomposite Elicits Neurite Outgrowth, Supports Neurogenic Differentiation and Accelerates Electrophysiological Maturation of Neural Progenitor Spheroids

Neuronal disorders are characterized by the loss of functional neurons and disrupted neuroanatomical connectivity, severely impacting the quality of life of patients. This study investigates a novel electroconductive nanocomposite consisting of glycine-derived carbon nanodots (GlyCNDs) incorporated into a collagen matrix and validates its beneficial physicochemical and electro-active cueing to relevant cells. To this end, this work employs mouse induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neural progenitor (NP) spheroids. The findings reveal that the nanocomposite markedly augmented neuronal differentiation in NP spheroids and stimulate neuritogenesis. In addition, this work demonstrates that the biomaterial-driven enhancements of the cellular response ultimately contribute to the development of highly integrated and functional neural networks. Lastly, acute dizocilpine (MK-801) treatment provides new evidence for a direct interaction between collagen-bound GlyCNDs and postsynaptic N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, thereby suggesting a potential mechanism underlying the observed cellular events. In summary, the findings establish a foundation for the development of a new nanocomposite resulting from the integration of carbon nanomaterials within a clinically approved hydrogel, toward an effective biomaterial-based strategy for addressing neuronal disorders by restoring damaged/lost neurons and supporting the reestablishment of neuroanatomical connectivity.

Electroconductive Nanofibrous Scaffolds Enable Neuronal Differentiation in Response to Electrical Stimulation without Exogenous Inducing Factors

Among the various biochemical and biophysical inducers for neural regeneration, electrical stimulation (ES) has recently attracted considerable attention as an efficient means to induce neuronal differentiation in tissue engineering approaches. The aim of this in vitro study was to develop a nanofibrous scaffold that enables ES-mediated neuronal differentiation in the absence of exogenous soluble inducers. A nanofibrous scaffold composed of polycaprolactone (PCL), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), and single-walled nanotubes (SWNTs) was fabricated via electrospinning and its physicochemical properties were investigated. The cytocompatibility of the electrospun composite with the PC12 cell line and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) was investigated. The results showed that the PCL/PLLA/SWNT nanofibrous scaffold did not exhibit cytotoxicity and supported cell attachment, spreading, and proliferation. ES was applied to cells cultured on the nanofibrous scaffolds at different intensities and the expression of the three neural markers (Nestin, Microtubule-associated protein 2, and β tubulin-3) was evaluated using RT-qPCR analysis. The results showed that the highest expression of neural markers could be achieved at an electric field intensity of 200 mV/cm, suggesting that the scaffold in combination with ES can be an efficient tool to accelerate neural differentiation in the absence of exogenous soluble inducers. This has important implications for the regeneration of nerve injuries and may provide insights for further investigations of the mechanisms underlying ES-mediated neuronal commitment.

Research Status of Dendrimer Micelles in Tumor Therapy for Drug Delivery

Dendrimers are a family of polymers with highly branched structure, well-defined composition, and extensive functional groups, which have attracted great attention in biomedical applications. Micelles formed by dendrimers are ideal nanocarriers for delivering anticancer agents due to the explicit study of their characteristics of particle size, charge, and biological properties such as toxicity, blood circulation time, biodistribution, and cellular internalization. Here, the classification, preparation, and structure of dendrimer micelles are reviewed, and the specific functional groups modified on the surface of dendrimers for tumor active targeting, stimuli-responsive drug release, reduced toxicity, and prolonged blood circulation time are discussed. In addition, their applications are summarized as various platforms for biomedical applications related to cancer therapy including drug delivery, gene transfection, nano-contrast for imaging, and combined therapy. Other applications such as tissue engineering and biosensor are also involved. Finally, the possible challenges and perspectives of dendrimer micelles for their further applications are discussed.

Biomedical Approach of Nanotechnology and Biological Risks: A Mini-Review

Nanotechnology has played a prominent role in biomedical engineering, offering innovative approaches to numerous treatments. Notable advances have been observed in the development of medical devices, contributing to the advancement of modern medicine. This article briefly discusses key applications of nanotechnology in tissue engineering, controlled drug release systems, biosensors and monitoring, and imaging and diagnosis. The particular emphasis on this theme will result in a better understanding, selection, and technical approach to nanomaterials for biomedical purposes, including biological risks, security, and biocompatibility criteria.

Nanotechnology development in surgical applications: recent trends and developments

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

Production of Blended Poly(acrylonitrile): Poly(ethylenedioxythiophene):Poly(styrene sulfonate) Electrospun Fibers for Neural Applications

This study describes, for the first time, the successful incorporation of poly(ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) in Poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN) fibers. While electroconductive PEDOT:PSS is extremely challenging to electrospun into fibers. Therefore, PAN, a polymer easy to electrospun, was chosen as a carrier due to its biocompatibility and tunable chemical stability when cross-linked, particularly using strong acids. PAN:PEDOT:PSS blends, prepared from PEDOT:PSS Clevios PH1000, were electrospun into fibers (PH1000) with a diameter of 515 ± 120 nm, which after being thermally annealed (PH1000 24H) and treated with heated sulfuric acid (PH1000 H₂SO₄), resulted in fibers with diameters of 437 ± 109 and 940 ± 210 nm, respectively. The fibers obtained over the stepwise process were characterized through infra-red/Raman spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. The final fiber meshes showed enhanced electroconductivity (3.2 × 10^-3 S cm^-1, four-points-assay). Fiber meshes biocompatibility was evaluated using fibroblasts and neural stem cells (NSCs) following, respectively, the ISO10993 guidelines and standard adhesion/proliferation assay. NSCs cultured on PH1000 H₂SO₄ fibers presented normal morphology and high proliferation rates (0.37 day^-1 vs. 0.16 day^-1 for culture plate), indicating high biocompatibility for NSCs. Still, the low initial NSC adhesion of 7% calls for improving seeding methodologies. PAN:PEDOT:PSS fibers, here successful produced for the first time, have potential applications in neural tissue engineering and soft electronics.

Business Risk Mitigation in the Development Process of New Monoclonal Antibody Drug Conjugates for Cancer Treatment

Recent developments aim to extend the cytotoxic effect and therapeutic window of mAbs by constructing antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), in which the targeting moiety is the mAb that is linked to a highly toxic drug. According to a report from mid of last year, the global ADCs market accounted for USD 1387 million in 2016 and was worth USD 7.82 billion in 2022. It is estimated to increase in value to USD 13.15 billion by 2030. One of the critical points is the linkage of any substituent to the functional group of the mAb. Increasing the efficacy against cancer cells' highly cytotoxic molecules (warheads) are connected biologically. The connections are completed by different types of linkers, or there are efforts to add biopolymer-based nanoparticles, including chemotherapeutic agents. Recently, a combination of ADC technology and nanomedicine opened a new pathway. To fulfill the scientific knowledge for this complex development, our aim is to write an overview article that provides a basic introduction to ADC which describes the current and future opportunities in therapeutic areas and markets. Through this approach, we show which development directions are relevant both in terms of therapeutic area and market potential. Opportunities to reduce business risks are presented as new development principles.

Surface modification of polycaprolactone nanofibers through hydrolysis and aminolysis: a comparative study on structural characteristics, mechanical properties, and cellular performance

Hydrolysis and aminolysis are two main commonly used chemical methods for surface modification of hydrophobic tissue engineering scaffolds. The type of chemical reagents along with the concentration and treatment time are main factors that determine the effects of these methods on biomaterials. In the present study, electrospun poly (ℇ-caprolactone) (PCL) nanofibers were modified through hydrolysis and aminolysis. The applied chemical solutions for hydrolysis and aminolysis were NaOH (0.5-2 M) and hexamethylenediamine/isopropanol (HMD/IPA, 0.5-2 M) correspondingly. Three distinct incubation time points were predetermined for the hydrolysis and aminolysis treatments. According to the scanning electron microscopy results, morphological changes emerged only in the higher concentrations of hydrolysis solution (1 M and 2 M) and prolonged treatment duration (6 and 12 h). In contrast, aminolysis treatments induced slight changes in the morphological features of the electrospun PCL nanofibers. Even though surface hydrophilicity of PCL nanofibers was noticeably improved through the both methods, the resultant influence of hydrolysis was comparatively more considerable. As a general trend, both hydrolysis and aminolysis resulted in a moderate decline in the mechanical performance of PCL samples. Energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis indicated elemental changes after the hydrolysis and aminolysis treatments. However, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and infrared spectroscopy results did not show noticeable alterations subsequent to the treatments. The fibroblast cells were well spread and exhibited a spindle-like shape on the both treated groups. Furthermore, according to the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, the surface treatment procedures ameliorated proliferative properties of PCL nanofibers. These findings represented that the modified PCL nanofibrous samples by hydrolysis and aminolysis treatments can be considered as the potentially favorable candidates for tissue engineering applications.

Nanoparticles for cancer therapy: a review of influencing factors and evaluation methods for biosafety

Nanoparticles are widely used in the biomedical field for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes due to their small size, high carrier capacity, and ease of modification, which enable selective targeting and as contrast agents. Over the past decades, more and more nanoparticles have received regulatory approval to enter the clinic, more nanoparticles have shown potential for clinical translation, and humans have increasing access to them. However, nanoparticles have a high potential to cause unpredictable adverse effects on human organs, tissues, and cells due to their unique physicochemical properties and interactions with DNA, lipids, cells, tissues, proteins, and biological fluids. Currently, issues, such as nanoparticle side effects and toxicity, remain controversial, and these pitfalls must be fully considered prior to their application to body systems. Therefore, it is particularly urgent and important to assess the safety of nanoparticles acting in living organisms. In this paper, we review the important factors influencing the biosafety of nanoparticles in terms of their properties, and introduce common methods to summarize the biosafety evaluation of nanoparticles through in vitro and in body systems.

Recent Advances in Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) Asymmetric Membranes/Composites for Biomedical Applications

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a new class of porous crystalline materials composed of metal and organic material. MOFs have fascinating properties, such as fine tunability, large specific surface area, and high porosity. MOFs are widely used for environmental protection, biosensors, regenerative medicine, medical engineering, cell therapy, catalysts, and drug delivery. Recent studies have reported various significant properties of MOFs for biomedical applications, such as drug detection and delivery. In contrast, MOFs have limitations such as low stability and low specificity in binding to the target. MOF-based membranes improve the stability and specificity of conventional MOFs by increasing the surface area and developing the possibility of MOF-ligand binding, while conjugated membranes dramatically increase the area of active functional groups. This special property makes them attractive for drug and biosensor fabrication, as both the spreading and solubility components of the porosity can be changed. Asymmetric membranes are a structure with high potential in the biomedical field, due to the different characteristics on its two surfaces, the possibility of adjusting various properties such as the size of porosity, transfer rate and selectivity, and surface properties such as hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity. MOF assisted asymmetric membranes can provide a platform with different properties and characteristics in the biomedical field. The latest version of MOF materials/membranes has several potential applications, especially in medical engineering, cell therapy, drug delivery, and regenerative medicine, which will be discussed in this review, along with their advantages, disadvantages, and challenges.

Neuro-nanotechnology: diagnostic and therapeutic nano-based strategies in applied neuroscience

Artificial, de-novo manufactured materials (with controlled nano-sized characteristics) have been progressively used by neuroscientists during the last several decades. The introduction of novel implantable bioelectronics interfaces that are better suited to their biological targets is one example of an innovation that has emerged as a result of advanced nanostructures and implantable bioelectronics interfaces, which has increased the potential of prostheses and neural interfaces. The unique physical-chemical properties of nanoparticles have also facilitated the development of novel imaging instruments for advanced laboratory systems, as well as intelligently manufactured scaffolds and microelectrodes and other technologies designed to increase our understanding of neural tissue processes. The incorporation of nanotechnology into physiology and cell biology enables the tailoring of molecular interactions. This involves unique interactions with neurons and glial cells in neuroscience. Technology solutions intended to effectively interact with neuronal cells, improved molecular-based diagnostic techniques, biomaterials and hybridized compounds utilized for neural regeneration, neuroprotection, and targeted delivery of medicines as well as small chemicals across the blood-brain barrier are all purposes of the present article.

Possible Synergies of Nanomaterial-Assisted Tissue Regeneration in Plasma Medicine: Mechanisms and Safety Concerns

Cold atmospheric plasma and nanomedicine originally emerged as individual domains, but are increasingly applied in combination with each other. Most research is performed in the context of cancer treatment, with only little focus yet on the possible synergies. Many questions remain on the potential of this promising hybrid technology, particularly regarding regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. In this perspective article, we therefore start from the fundamental mechanisms in the individual technologies, in order to envision possible synergies for wound healing and tissue recovery, as well as research strategies to discover and optimize them. Among these strategies, we demonstrate how cold plasmas and nanomaterials can enhance each other's strengths and overcome each other's limitations. The parallels with cancer research, biotechnology and plasma surface modification further serve as inspiration for the envisioned synergies in tissue regeneration. The discovery and optimization of synergies may also be realized based on a profound understanding of the underlying redox- and field-related biological processes. Finally, we emphasize the toxicity concerns in plasma and nanomedicine, which may be partly remediated by their combination, but also partly amplified. A widespread use of standardized protocols and materials is therefore strongly recommended, to ensure both a fast and safe clinical implementation.

Curcumin-Loaded Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Dispersed in Thermo-Responsive Hydrogel as Potential Alzheimer Disease Therapy

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive and behavioral impairment. Curcumin-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN-CCM) can overcome the drawbacks related to the free curcumin (CCM) clinical application, such as water insolubility and low bioavailability, besides acting over the main causes associated to AD. A thermo-responsive hydrogel is an interesting approach for facilitating the administration of the nanosystem via a nasal route, as well as for overcoming mucociliary clearance mechanisms. In light of this, MSN-CCM were dispersed in the hydrogel and evaluated through in vitro and in vivo assays. The MSNs and MSN-CCM were successfully characterized by physicochemical analysis and a high value of the CCM encapsulation efficiency (EE%, 87.70 ± 0.05) was achieved. The designed thermo-responsive hydrogel (HG) was characterized by rheology, texture profile analysis, and ex vivo mucoadhesion, showing excellent mechanical and mucoadhesive properties. Ex vivo permeation studies of MSN-CCM and HG@MSN-CCM showed high permeation values (12.46 ± 1.08 and 28.40 ± 1.88 μg cm⁻² of CCM, respectively) in porcine nasal mucosa. In vivo studies performed in a streptozotocin-induced AD model confirmed that HG@MSN-CCM reverted the cognitive deficit in mice, acting as a potential formulation in the treatment of AD.

Nano-material utilization in stem cells for regenerative medicine

The utilization of nanotechnology in regenerative medicine has been globally proven to be the main solution to many issues faced with tissue engineering today, and the theoretical and empirical investigations of the association of nanomaterials with stem cells have made significant progress as well. For their ability to self-renew and differentiate into a variety of cell types, stem cells have become popular candidates for cell treatment in recent years, particularly in cartilage and Ocular regeneration. However, there are still several challenges to overcome before it may be used in a wide range of therapeutic contexts. This review paper provides a review of the various implications of nanomaterials in tissue and cell regeneration, the stem cell and scaffold application in novel treatments, and the basic developments in stem cell-based therapies, as well as the hurdles that must be solved for nanotechnology to be used in its full potential. Due to the increased interest in the continuously developing field of nanotechnology, demonstrating, and pinpointing the most recognized and used applications of nanotechnology in regenerative medicine became imperative to provide students, researchers, etc. who are interested.

Advances in biomaterials for the treatment of retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in children. Although traditional chemotherapy has shown some success in retinoblastoma management, there are several shortcomings to this approach, including inadequate pharmacokinetic parameters, multidrug resistance, low therapeutic efficiency, nonspecific targeting, and the need for adjuvant therapy, among others. The revolutionary developments in biomaterials for drug delivery have enabled breakthroughs in cancer management. Today, biomaterials are playing a crucial role in developing more efficacious retinoblastoma treatments. The key goal in the evolution of drug delivery biomaterials for retinoblastoma therapy is to resolve delivery-associated obstacles and lower nonlocal exposure while ameliorating certain adverse effects. In this review, we will first delve into the historical perspective of retinoblastoma with a focus on the classical treatments currently used in clinics to enhance patients' quality of life and survival rate. As we move along, we will discuss biomaterials for drug delivery applications. Various aspects of biomaterials for drug delivery will be dissected, including their features and recent advances. In accordance with the current advances in biomaterials, we will deliver a synopsis on the novel chemotherapeutic drug delivery strategies and evaluate these approaches to gain new insights into retinoblastoma treatment.

An Insight of Nanomaterials in Tissue Engineering from Fabrication to Applications

Tissue engineering is a research domain that deals with the growth of various kinds of tissues with the help of synthetic composites. With the culmination of nanotechnology and bioengineering, tissue engineering has emerged as an exciting domain. Recent literature describes its various applications in biomedical and biological sciences, such as facilitating the growth of tissue and organs, gene delivery, biosensor-based detection, etc. It deals with the development of biomimetics to repair, restore, maintain and amplify or strengthen several biological functions at the level of tissue and organs. Herein, the synthesis of nanocomposites based on polymers, along with their classification as conductive hydrogels and bioscaffolds, is comprehensively discussed. Furthermore, their implementation in numerous tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications is also described. The limitations of tissue engineering are also discussed here. The present review highlights and summarizes the latest progress in the tissue engineering domain directed at functionalized nanomaterials.

Overview of Application of Nanomaterials in Medical Domain

With the development of nanotechnology, the application of nanomaterials in the medical field has become a forefront hotspot in the field of scientific research in the 21st century. Compared with traditional drug carriers, drug carriers made of nanomaterials have advantages such as higher drug loading rate, better biocompatibility, and targeted transportation, which provide the possibility for the treatment of a variety of diseases. In this paper, the characteristics and advantages of nanomaterials as well as their applications in the medical field are reviewed and the research progress of nanomaterials is analyzed.

Surface Engineering of Nanomaterials with Polymers, Biomolecules, and Small Ligands for Nanomedicine

Nanomedicine is a speedily growing area of medical research that is focused on developing nanomaterials for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases. Nanomaterials with unique physicochemical properties have recently attracted a lot of attention since they offer a lot of potential in biomedical research. Novel generations of engineered nanostructures, also known as designed and functionalized nanomaterials, have opened up new possibilities in the applications of biomedical approaches such as biological imaging, biomolecular sensing, medical devices, drug delivery, and therapy. Polymers, natural biomolecules, or synthetic ligands can interact physically or chemically with nanomaterials to functionalize them for targeted uses. This paper reviews current research in nanotechnology, with a focus on nanomaterial functionalization for medical applications. Firstly, a brief overview of the different types of nanomaterials and the strategies for their surface functionalization is offered. Secondly, different types of functionalized nanomaterials are reviewed. Then, their potential cytotoxicity and cost-effectiveness are discussed. Finally, their use in diverse fields is examined in detail, including cancer treatment, tissue engineering, drug/gene delivery, and medical implants.

Recent Applications of Electrospun Nanofibrous Scaffold in Tissue Engineering

Tissue engineering is a relatively new area of research that combines medical, biological, and engineering fundamentals to create tissue-engineered constructs that regenerate, preserve, or slightly increase the functions of tissues. To create mature tissue, the extracellular matrix should be imitated by engineered structures, allow for oxygen and nutrient transmission, and release toxins during tissue repair. Numerous recent studies have been devoted to developing three-dimensional nanostructures for tissue engineering. One of the most effective of these methods is electrospinning. Numerous nanofibrous scaffolds have been constructed over the last few decades for tissue repair and restoration. The current review gives an overview of attempts to construct nanofibrous meshes as tissue-engineered scaffolds for various tissues such as bone, cartilage, cardiovascular, and skin tissues. Also, the current article addresses the recent improvements and difficulties in tissue regeneration using electrospinning.

Targeting neuroinflammation by intranasal delivery of nanoparticles in neurological diseases: a comprehensive review

Neuroinflammation (NIF) plays an essential role in the pathology of neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. Despite progress in the drug discovery and development of new drugs, drug delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) still represents the challenge due to the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Targeting NIF may require an adequate amount of drug to cross the BBB. Recently, the intranasal (IN) drug administration has attracted increasing attention as a reliable method to cross the BBB and treat neurological disorders. On the other hand, using optimized nanoparticles may improve the IN delivery limitations, increase the mucoadhesive properties, and prevent drug degradation. NPs can carry and deliver drugs to the CNS by bypassing the BBB. In this review, we described briefly the NIF as a pathologic feature of CNS diseases. The potential treatment possibilities with IN transfer of NP-loaded drugs will enhance the establishment of more efficient nanoformulations and delivery systems.

Physical and chemical properties of carbon nanotubes in view of mechanistic neuroscience investigations. Some outlook from condensed matter, materials science and physical chemistry

The open border between non-living and living matter, suggested by increasingly emerging fields of nanoscience interfaced to biological systems, requires a detailed knowledge of nanomaterials properties. An account of the wide spectrum of phenomena, belonging to physical chemistry of interfaces, materials science, solid state physics at the nanoscale and bioelectrochemistry, thus is acquainted for a comprehensive application of carbon nanotubes interphased with neuron cells. This review points out a number of conceptual tools to further address the ongoing advances in coupling neuronal networks with (carbon) nanotube meshworks, and to deepen the basic issues that govern a biological cell or tissue interacting with a nanomaterial. Emphasis is given here to the properties and roles of carbon nanotube systems at relevant spatiotemporal scales of individual molecules, junctions and molecular layers, as well as to the point of view of a condensed matter or materials scientist. Carbon nanotube interactions with blood-brain barrier, drug delivery, biocompatibility and functionalization issues are also regarded.

Neurodegenerative disorders management: state-of-art and prospects of nano-biotechnology

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) are highly prevalent among the aging population. It affects primarily the central nervous system (CNS) but the effects are also observed in the peripheral nervous system. Neural degeneration is a progressive loss of structure and function of neurons, which may ultimately involve cell death. Such patients suffer from debilitating memory loss and altered motor coordination which bring up non-affordable and unavoidable socio-economic burdens. Due to the unavailability of specific therapeutics and diagnostics, the necessity to control or manage NDs raised the demand to investigate and develop efficient alternative approaches. Keeping trends and advancements in view, this report describes both state-of-the-art and challenges in nano-biotechnology-based approaches to manage NDs, toward personalized healthcare management. Sincere efforts are being made to customize nano-theragnostics to control: therapeutic cargo packaging, delivery to the brain, nanomedicine of higher efficacy, deep brain stimulation, implanted stimulation, and managing brain cell functioning. These advancements are useful to design future therapy based on the severity of the patient's neurodegenerative disease. However, we observe a lack of knowledge shared among scientists of a variety of expertise to explore this multi-disciplinary research field for NDs management. Consequently, this review will provide a guideline platform that will be useful in developing novel smart nano-therapies by considering the aspects and advantages of nano-biotechnology to manage NDs in a personalized manner. Nano-biotechnology-based approaches have been proposed as effective and affordable alternatives at the clinical level due to recent advancements in nanotechnology-assisted theragnostics, targeted delivery, higher efficacy, and minimal side effects.

Aluminosilicate Nanosponges: Synthesis, Properties, and Application Prospects

A simple one-step method is presented for fabricating inorganic nanosponges with a kaolinite [Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄] structure. The nanosponges were synthesized by the hydrothermal treatment of aluminosilicate gels in an acidic medium (pH = 2.6) at 220 °C without using organic cross-linking agents, such as cyclodextrin or polymers. The formation of the nanosponge morphology was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, and the assignment of the synthesized aluminosilicates to the kaolinite group was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy. The effect of the synthesis conditions, in particular, the nature (HCl, HF, NaOH, and H₂O) and pH of the reaction medium (2.6, 7, and 12), as well as the duration of the synthesis (3, 6, and 12 days), on the morphology of aluminosilicates of the kaolinite group was studied. The sorption capacity of aluminosilicate nanosponges with respect to cationic (e.g., methylene blue) and anionic (e.g., azorubine) dyes in aqueous solutions was studied. The pH sensitivity of the surface ζ potential of the synthesized nanosponges was demonstrated. The dependence of the hemolytic activity (the ability to destroy erythrocytes) of aluminosilicate nanoparticles on the particle morphology (platy, spherical, and nanosponge) has been identified for the first time. Aluminosilicate nanosponges were not found to exhibit hemolytic activity. The prospects of using aluminosilicate nanosponges to prepare innovative functional materials for ecology and medicine applications, in particular, as matrices for drug delivery systems, were identified.

Polyhydroxybutyrate-Based Nanocomposites for Bone Tissue Engineering

Bone-related diseases have been increasing worldwide, and several nanocomposites have been used to treat them. Among several nanocomposites, polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB)-based nanocomposites are widely used in drug delivery and tissue engineering due to their excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability. However, PHB use in bone tissue engineering is limited due to its inadequate physicochemical and mechanical properties. In the present work, we synthesized PHB-based nanocomposites using a nanoblend and nano-clay with modified montmorillonite (MMT) as a filler. MMT was modified using trimethyl stearyl ammonium (TMSA). Nanoblend and nano-clay were fabricated using the solvent-casting technique. Inspection of the composite structure revealed that the basal spacing of the polymeric matrix material was significantly altered depending on the loading percentage of organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) nano-clay. The PHB/OMMT nanocomposite displayed enhanced thermal stability and upper working temperature upon heating as compared to the pristine polymer. The dispersed (OMMT) nano-clay assisted in the formation of pores on the surface of the polymer. The pore size was proportional to the weight percentage of OMMT. Further morphological analysis of these blends was carried out through FESEM. The obtained nanocomposites exhibited augmented properties over neat PHB and could have an abundance of applications in the industry and medicinal sectors. In particular, improved porosity, non-immunogenic nature, and strong biocompatibility suggest their effective application in bone tissue engineering. Thus, PHB/OMMT nanocomposites are a promising candidate for 3D organ printing, lab-on-a-chip scaffold engineering, and bone tissue engineering.

Coaxial Electrospun PLLA Fibers Modified with Water-Soluble Materials for Oligodendrocyte Myelination

Myelin sheaths are essential in maintaining the integrity of axons. Development of the platform for in vitro myelination would be especially useful for demyelinating disease modeling and drug screening. In this study, a fiber scaffold with a core-shell structure was prepared in one step by the coaxial electrospinning method. A high-molecular-weight polymer poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) was used as the core, while the shell was a natural polymer material such as hyaluronic acid (HA), sodium alginate (SA), or chitosan (CS). The morphology, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), contact angle, viability assay, and in vitro myelination by oligodendrocytes were characterized. The results showed that such fibers are bead-free and continuous, with an average size from 294 ± 53 to 390 ± 54 nm. The DSC and FTIR curves indicated no changes in the phase state of coaxial brackets. Hyaluronic acid/PLLA coaxial fibers had the minimum contact angle (53.1° ± 0.24°). Myelin sheaths were wrapped around a coaxial electrospun scaffold modified with water-soluble materials after a 14-day incubation. All results suggest that such a scaffold prepared by coaxial electrospinning potentially provides a novel platform for oligodendrocyte myelination.

Graphene and its derivatives: understanding the main chemical and medicinal chemistry roles for biomedical applications

Over the past few years, there has been a growing potential use of graphene and its derivatives in several biomedical areas, such as drug delivery systems, biosensors, and imaging systems, especially for having excellent optical, electronic, thermal, and mechanical properties. Therefore, nanomaterials in the graphene family have shown promising results in several areas of science. The different physicochemical properties of graphene and its derivatives guide its biocompatibility and toxicity. Hence, further studies to explain the interactions of these nanomaterials with biological systems are fundamental. This review has shown the applicability of the graphene family in several biomedical modalities, with particular attention for cancer therapy and diagnosis, as a potent theranostic. This ability is derivative from the considerable number of forms that the graphene family can assume. The graphene-based materials biodistribution profile, clearance, toxicity, and cytotoxicity, interacting with biological systems, are discussed here, focusing on its synthesis methodology, physicochemical properties, and production quality. Despite the growing increase in the bioavailability and toxicity studies of graphene and its derivatives, there is still much to be unveiled to develop safe and effective formulations.

Graphic abstract

Translational considerations for the design of untethered nanomaterials in human neural stimulation

Neural stimulation is a powerful tool to study brain physiology and an effective treatment for many neurological disorders. Conventional interfaces use electrodes implanted in the brain. As these are often invasive and have limited spatial targeting, they carry a potential risk of side-effects. Smaller neural devices may overcome these obstacles, and as such, the field of nanoscale and remotely powered neural stimulation devices is growing. This review will report on current untethered, injectable nanomaterial technologies intended for neural stimulation, with a focus on material-tissue interface engineering. We will review nanomaterials capable of wireless neural stimulation, and discuss their stimulation mechanisms. Taking cues from more established nanomaterial fields (e.g., cancer theranostics, drug delivery), we will then discuss methods to modify material interfaces with passive and bioactive coatings. We will discuss methods of delivery to a desired brain region, particularly in the context of how delivery and localization are affected by surface modification. We will also consider each of these aspects of nanoscale neurostimulators with a focus on their prospects for translation to clinical use.

Glycyrrhetinic Acid and TAT Peptide Modified Dual-functional Liposomes for Treatment of Hepatocellular Cancer

BACKGROUND

Surgery remains the front-line therapeutic strategy to treat early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the 5-year recurrence rates of HCC patients are high. 10- Hydroxycamptothecin (10-HCPT) is a known anti-HCC agent but its poor solubility and bioavailability have limited its clinical use.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we developed a novel nanoliposome encapsulated 10-hydroxycamptothecin modified with glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) and TAT peptide (GA/TAT-HCPT-LP) for the treatment of HCC. Dual modified GA and TAT can enhance tumor targeting and tumor penetration.

METHODS

The GA/TAT-HCPT-LP NPs were synthesized using the thin-film dispersion method. GA/TAT-HCPT-LP were characterized for particle size, zeta potential and morphology. Drug release from the GA/TAT-HCPT-LP liposomes was measured by dialysis. Cell-uptake was assessed by microscopy and flow cytometry. Cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis were measured to evaluate in vitro antitumor activity of GA/TAT-HCPT-LP via CCK-8 assays, Transwell assays, and flow cytometry, respectively. The in vivo distribution of GA/TAT-HCPT-LP was evaluated in HCC animal models. Tumor- bearing mouse models were used to assess the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of GA/TAT-HCPT-LP.

RESULTS

The mean particle size and mean zeta potential of GA/TAT-HCPT-LP were 135.55 ± 2.76 nm and -4.57 ± 0.23 mV, respectively. Transmission electron micrographs (TEM) showed that the GA/TAT-HCPT-LP had a near spherical shape and a double-membrane structure. GA/TAT-HCPT-LP led to slow and continuous drug release, and could bind to HepG2 cells more readily than other groups. Compared to control groups, treatment with GA/TAT-HCPT-LP had a significantly large effect on inhibiting cell proliferation, tumor cell migration and cell apoptosis. In vivo assays showed that GA/TATHCPT- LP selectively accumulated in tumor tissue with obvious antitumor efficacy.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the synthesized GA/TAT-HCPT-LP could effectively target tumor cells and enhance cell penetration, highlighting its potential for hepatocellular cancer therapy.

An overview of latest advances in exploring bioactive peptide hydrogels for neural tissue engineering

Neural tissue engineering holds great potential in addressing current challenges faced by medical therapies employed for the functional recovery of the brain. In this context, self-assembling peptides have gained considerable interest owing to their diverse physicochemical properties, which enable them to closely mimic the biophysical characteristics of the native ECM. Additionally, in contrast to synthetic polymers, which lack inherent biological signaling, peptide-based nanomaterials could be easily designed to present essential biological cues to the cells to promote cellular adhesion. Moreover, injectability of these biomaterials further widens their scope in biomedicine. In this context, hydrogels obtained from short bioactive peptide sequences are of particular interest owing to their facile synthesis and highly tunable properties. In spite of their well-known advantages, the exploration of short peptides for neural tissue engineering is still in its infancy and thus detailed discussion is required to evoke interest in this direction. This review provides a general overview of various bioactive hydrogels derived from short peptide sequences explored for neural tissue engineering. The review also discusses the current challenges in translating the benefits of these hydrogels to clinical practices and presents future perspectives regarding the utilization of these hydrogels for advanced biomedical applications.

Can carbon nanofibers affect anurofauna? Study involving neotropical Physalaemus cuvieri (Fitzinger, 1826) tadpoles

Although carbon nanotubes' (CNTs) toxicity in different experimental systems (in vivo and in vitro) is known, little is known about the toxic effects of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) on aquatic vertebrates. We herein investigated the potential impact of CNFs (1 and 10 mg/L) by using Physalaemus cuvieri tadpoles as experimental model. CNFs were able to induce nutritional deficit in animals after 48-h exposure to them, and this finding was inferred by reductions observed in body concentrations of total soluble carbohydrates, total proteins, and triglycerides. The increased production of hydrogen peroxide, reactive oxygen species and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in tadpoles exposed to CNFs has suggested REDOX homeostasis change into oxidative stress. This process was correlated to the largest number of apoptotic and necrotic cells in the blood of these animals. On the other hand, the increased superoxide dismutase and catalase activity has suggested that the antioxidant system of animals exposed to CNFs was not enough to maintain REDOX balance. In addition, CNFs induced increase in acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activity, as well as changes in the number of neuromasts evaluated on body surface (which is indicative of the neurotoxic effect of nanomaterials on the assessed model system). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the impact of CNFs on amphibians; therefore, it broadened our understanding about ecotoxicological risks associated with their dispersion in freshwater ecosystems and possible contribution to the decline in the populations of anurofauna species.

Strong and nonspecific synergistic antibacterial/antibiofilm impact of nano-silver biosynthesized and decorated with active ingredients of Oscimum basilicum L

In this study, Ocimum basilicum (a proven broad spectrum medicinal plant for broad-spectrum pharmacological activities) leaf extract was used as conjugates for the fabrication of silver nanoparticles (AgNP). Color change of the reaction mixture and UV-Visible spectrophotometry indicated the fabrication of silver nanoparticles, further X-ray diffraction (XRD) crystallography, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopic images (TEM), and Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) confirms the purity, monodispersity, and morphology including size (22.4 nm) and conjugated functional group of Ocimum basilicum. The conjugation of functional OH, N-O, and C=O groups was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The engineered AgNP have shown significantly efficient antibacterial and antibiofilm activities (92.7% biofilm inhibition) on diverse clinical strains and thus showed its potential for use in clinical applications.

Lignin: Drug/Gene Delivery and Tissue Engineering Applications

Lignin is an abundant renewable natural biopolymer. Moreover, a significant development in lignin pretreatment and processing technologies has opened a new window to explore lignin and lignin-based bionanomaterials. In the last decade, lignin has been widely explored in different applications such as drug and gene delivery, tissue engineering, food science, water purification, biofuels, environmental, pharmaceuticals, nutraceutical, catalysis, and other interesting low-value-added energy applications. The complex nature and antioxidant, antimicrobial, and biocompatibility of lignin attracted its use in various biomedical applications because of ease of functionalization, availability of diverse functional sites, tunable physicochemical and mechanical properties. In addition to it, its diverse properties such as reactivity towards oxygen radical, metal chelation, renewable nature, biodegradability, favorable interaction with cells, nature to mimic the extracellular environment, and ease of nanoparticles preparation make it a very interesting material for biomedical use. Tremendous progress has been made in drug delivery and tissue engineering in recent years. However, still, it remains challenging to identify an ideal and compatible nanomaterial for biomedical applications. In this review, recent progress of lignin towards biomedical applications especially in drug delivery and in tissue engineering along with challenges, future possibilities have been comprehensively reviewed.

Nanomaterials for Biomedical Applications: Production, Characterisations, Recent Trends and Difficulties

Designing of nanomaterials has now become a top-priority research goal with a view to developing specific applications in the biomedical fields. In fact, the recent trends in the literature show that there is a lack of in-depth reviews that specifically highlight the current knowledge based on the design and production of nanomaterials. Considerations of size, shape, surface charge and microstructures are important factors in this regard as they affect the performance of nanoparticles (NPs). These parameters are also found to be dependent on their synthesis methods. The characterisation techniques that have been used for the investigation of these nanomaterials are relatively different in their concepts, sample preparation methods and obtained results. Consequently, this review article aims to carry out an in-depth discussion on the recent trends on nanomaterials for biomedical engineering, with a particular emphasis on the choices of the nanomaterials, preparation methods/instruments and characterisations techniques used for designing of nanomaterials. Key applications of these nanomaterials, such as tissue regeneration, medication delivery and wound healing, are also discussed briefly. Covering this knowledge gap will result in a better understanding of the role of nanomaterial design and subsequent larger-scale applications in terms of both its potential and difficulties.

Neuroinflammation Treatment via Targeted Delivery of Nanoparticles

The lack of effective treatments for most neurological diseases has prompted the search for novel therapeutic options. Interestingly, neuroinflammation is emerging as a common feature to target in most CNS pathologies. Recent studies suggest that targeted delivery of small molecules to reduce neuroinflammation can be beneficial. However, suboptimal drug delivery to the CNS is a major barrier to modulate inflammation because neurotherapeutic compounds are currently being delivered systemically without spatial or temporal control. Emerging nanomaterial technologies are providing promising and superior tools to effectively access neuropathological tissue in a controlled manner. Here we highlight recent advances in nanomaterial technologies for drug delivery to the CNS. We propose that state-of-the-art nanoparticle drug delivery platforms can significantly impact local CNS bioavailability of pharmacological compounds and treat neurological diseases.

Nanomedicine and Early Cancer Diagnosis: Molecular Imaging using Fluorescence Nanoparticles

Incorporating nanotechnology into fluorescent imaging and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has shown promising potential for accurate diagnosis of cancer at an earlier stage than the conventional imaging modalities. Molecular imaging (MI) aims to quantitatively characterize, visualize, and measure the biological processes or living cells at molecular and genetic levels. MI modalities have been exploited in different applications including noninvasive determination and visualization of diseased tissues, cell trafficking visualization, early detection, treatment response monitoring, and in vivo visualization of living cells. High-affinity molecular probe and imaging modality to detect the probe are the two main requirements of MI. Recent advances in nanotechnology and allied modalities have facilitated the use of nanoparticles (NPs) as MI probes. Within the extensive group of NPs, fluorescent NPs play a prominent role in optical molecular imaging. The fluorescent NPs used in molecular and cellular imaging can be categorized into three main groups including quantum dots (QDs), upconversion, and dyedoped NPs. Fluorescent NPs have great potential in targeted theranostics including cancer imaging, immunoassay- based cells, proteins and bacteria detections, imaging-guided surgery, and therapy. Fluorescent NPs have shown promising potentials for drug and gene delivery, detection of the chromosomal abnormalities, labeling of DNA, and visualizing DNA replication dynamics. Multifunctional NPs have been successfully used in a single theranostic modality integrating diagnosis and therapy. The unique characteristics of multifunctional NPs make them potential theranostic agents that can be utilized concurrently for diagnosis and therapy. This review provides the state of the art of the applications of nanotechnologies in early cancer diagnosis focusing on fluorescent NPs, their synthesis methods, and perspectives in clinical theranostics.

Core-shell nanostructures: perspectives towards drug delivery applications

Nanosystems have shown encouraging outcomes and substantial progress in the areas of drug delivery and biomedical applications. However, the controlled and targeted delivery of drugs or genes can be limited due to their physicochemical and functional properties. In this regard, core-shell type nanoparticles are promising nanocarrier systems for controlled and targeted drug delivery applications. These functional nanoparticles are emerging as a particular class of nanosystems because of their unique advantages, including high surface area, and easy surface modification and functionalization. Such unique advantages can facilitate the use of core-shell nanoparticles for the selective mingling of two or more different functional properties in a single nanosystem to achieve the desired physicochemical properties that are essential for effective targeted drug delivery. Several types of core-shell nanoparticles, such as metallic, magnetic, silica-based, upconversion, and carbon-based core-shell nanoparticles, have been designed and developed for drug delivery applications. Keeping the scope, demand, and challenges in view, the present review explores state-of-the-art developments and advances in core-shell nanoparticle systems, the desired structure-property relationships, newly generated properties, the effects of parameter control, surface modification, and functionalization, and, last but not least, their promising applications in the fields of drug delivery, biomedical applications, and tissue engineering. This review also supports significant future research for developing multi-core and shell-based functional nanosystems to investigate nano-therapies that are needed for advanced, precise, and personalized healthcare systems.

Biosynthesis, characterization of PLGA coated folate-mediated multiple drug loaded copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles and it's cytotoxicity on nasopharyngeal cancer cell lines

Cytotoxicity of CuO nanoparticles (NPs) are an impediment in utilizing them as an effective nanocarriers of chemotherapeutic drugs for targeted drug delivery in nasopharyngeal cancer. In our current study, we have designed a two-step synthesis and coating of CuO NPs with different concentrations of PLGA (polylactide-co-glycolide) to reduce the cytotoxicity. This was further conjugated with folic acid to enhance targeting to specific tissue. The multiple drugs loaded in the NPs were two potent anticancer drugs doxorubicin and docetaxel. A complete characterization studies including micrographic analysis, zeta potential measurements, polydispersity index, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), encapsulation and loading efficiencies, stability and in vitro release studies were done. Cytoxicity studies were done with MTT 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, acridine orange/ethidium bromide and DAPI (4, 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole, dihydrochloride) staining procedures. Impediametric studies were also carried out to reinforce the reduction in cytotoxicity. Finally the cellular uptake of the NPs was seen. It was evident from the results that the multiple drugs loaded CuO NPs formed with PLGA coating were uniform, non-agglomerated in size ranging from 180 to 195 nm. The FTIR revealed no major changes in drug peaks. Encapsulation and loading efficiencies showed sufficient amount of drug being loaded into the NPs. The drug loaded NPs showed no change in size or zeta potential even after a period of 30 days. The cytotoxicity studies revealed significant reduction in toxicity after coating the surface treated with PLGA as evident from the microscopic analysis of cells. Hence the current study may be prioritized and further in vivo/in vitro studies may be carried out.