Potential toxicity of nanoparticles on the reproductive system animal models: A review

De novo design of a nanoregulator for the dynamic restoration of ovarian tissue in cryopreservation and transplantation

The cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue underscore its paramount importance in safeguarding reproductive capacity and ameliorating reproductive disorders. However, challenges persist in ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation (OTC-T), including the risk of tissue damage and dysfunction. Consequently, there has been a compelling exploration into the realm of nanoregulators to refine and enhance these procedures. This review embarks on a meticulous examination of the intricate anatomical structure of the ovary and its microenvironment, thereby establishing a robust groundwork for the development of nanomodulators. It systematically categorizes nanoregulators and delves deeply into their functions and mechanisms, meticulously tailored for optimizing ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation. Furthermore, the review imparts valuable insights into the practical applications and obstacles encountered in clinical settings associated with OTC-T. Moreover, the review advocates for the utilization of microbially derived nanomodulators as a potent therapeutic intervention in ovarian tissue cryopreservation. The progression of these approaches holds the promise of seamlessly integrating nanoregulators into OTC-T practices, thereby heralding a new era of expansive applications and auspicious prospects in this pivotal domain.

Reactive oxygen species-scavenging nanomaterials for the prevention and treatment of age-related diseases

With increasing proportion of the elderly in the population, age-related diseases (ARD) lead to a considerable healthcare burden to society. Prevention and treatment of ARD can decrease the negative impact of aging and the burden of disease. The aging rate is closely associated with the production of high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS-mediated oxidative stress in aging triggers aging-related changes through lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and DNA oxidation. Antioxidants can control autoxidation by scavenging free radicals or inhibiting their formation, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Benefiting from significant advances in nanotechnology, a large number of nanomaterials with ROS-scavenging capabilities have been developed. ROS-scavenging nanomaterials can be divided into two categories: nanomaterials as carriers for delivering ROS-scavenging drugs, and nanomaterials themselves with ROS-scavenging activity. This study summarizes the current advances in ROS-scavenging nanomaterials for prevention and treatment of ARD, highlights the potential mechanisms of the nanomaterials used and discusses the challenges and prospects for their applications.

Oxidative stress and potential effects of metal nanoparticles: A review of biocompatibility and toxicity concerns

Metal nanoparticles (M-NPs) have garnered significant attention due to their unique properties, driving diverse applications across packaging, biomedicine, electronics, and environmental remediation. However, the potential health risks associated with M-NPs must not be disregarded. M-NPs' ability to accumulate in organs and traverse the blood-brain barrier poses potential health threats to animals, humans, and the environment. The interaction between M-NPs and various cellular components, including DNA, multiple proteins, and mitochondria, triggers the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), influencing several cellular activities. These interactions have been linked to various effects, such as protein alterations, the buildup of M-NPs in the Golgi apparatus, heightened lysosomal hydrolases, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, cell membrane impairment, cytoplasmic disruption, and fluctuations in ATP levels. Despite the evident advantages M-NPs offer in diverse applications, gaps in understanding their biocompatibility and toxicity necessitate further research. This review provides an updated assessment of M-NPs' pros and cons across different applications, emphasizing associated hazards and potential toxicity. To ensure the responsible and safe use of M-NPs, comprehensive research is conducted to fully grasp the potential impact of these nanoparticles on both human health and the environment. By delving into their intricate interactions with biological systems, we can navigate the delicate balance between harnessing the benefits of M-NPs and minimizing potential risks. Further exploration will pave the way for informed decision-making, leading to the conscientious development of these nanomaterials and safeguarding the well-being of society and the environment.

Recent Advances in Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery Systems for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Reproductive Disorders

Over the past decade, nanotechnology has seen extensive integration into biomedical applications, playing a crucial role in biodetection, drug delivery, and diagnostic imaging. This is especially important in reproductive health care, which has become an emerging and significant area of research. Global concerns have intensified around disorders such as infertility, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, erectile dysfunction, benign prostate hyperplasia, sexually transmitted infections, and reproductive cancers. Nanotechnology presents promising solutions to address these concerns by introducing innovative tools and techniques, facilitating early detection, targeted drug delivery, and improved imaging capabilities. Through the utilization of nanoscale materials and devices, researchers can craft treatments that are not only more precise but also more effective, significantly enhancing outcomes in reproductive healthcare. Looking forward, the future of nanotechnology in reproductive medicine holds immense potential for reshaping diagnostics, personalized therapies, and fertility preservation. The utilization of nanotechnology-driven drug delivery systems is anticipated to elevate treatment effectiveness, minimize side effects, and offer patients therapies that are not only more precise but also more efficient. This review aims to delve into the various types, properties, and preparation techniques of nanocarriers specifically designed for drug delivery in the context of reproductive disorders, shedding light on the current landscape and potential future directions in this dynamic field.

Emerging pollutants in etiology and pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial endocrine disorder affecting reproductive-aged women worldwide. Although genetic and lifestyle factors have been implicated in its etiology, emerging evidence suggests that exposure to environmental pollutants may also contribute significantly to the development and pathophysiology of PCOS. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential role of emerging pollutants, including pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), microplastics, endocrine disruptors, and nanoparticles, in PCOS development. The article summarizes the current understanding of PCOS pathogenesis and its clinical manifestations. Subsequently, it delves into the mechanisms of action of the emerging pollutants, exploring how they may disrupt the endocrine system, interfere with hormonal regulation, and contribute to the manifestation of PCOS symptoms. Moreover, the potential for cumulative effects and synergistic interactions between these pollutants demands a cautious approach when considering their role in PCOS etiology.

Modulatory role ulexit against thiamethoxam-induced hematotoxicity/hepatotoxicity oxidative stress and immunotoxicity in Oncorhynchusmykiss

Contamination of the aquatic environment with different insecticides is a major concern in the aquatic ecosystem today. For this reason, in the designed study, Thiamethoxam (TMX) for which there is limited information on its negative effects on Oncorhynchus mykiss was investigated, its effects on hematotoxicity, oxidative status, cytotoxicity, DNA damage and apoptotic status indicators in blood/liver tissue. However, the antitoxic potential of ulexite (UX) supplementation in the elimination of TMX-mediated toxicity has been determined. LC50-96h value determined for TMX 0.73 mg/L has been determined. As a result of hematology profile, TMX application, RBC, Hgb and Hct values showed a temporal decrease compared to the control group, while increases were determined in MCV, MCH and MCHC values. It was determined that the inhibition/induction of hematological parameters was slowed down by adding UX to the medium. During the trial (48th and 96th hours), it was noted that TMX induced cortisol level, while UX supplementation slowed this induction at 48th hour. Antioxidant enzyme activities were significantly inhibited by TMX application, and MDA and MPO values increased as a result of the stimulation of ROS. It was determined that UX added to the medium showed activity in favor of antioxidants and tried to inhibit MDA and MPO levels. When Nrf-2, one of the inflammation parameters, was compared with the administration and control groups, it was determined that it inhibited depending on time, TNF-α, IL-6, DNA damage and apoptosis were induced, and UX suppressed this situation. The results obtained were evaluated as statistically meaningful. Briefly, it was determined that TMX induced oxidative damage in all tissues at 48th - 96th hours, whereas UX mitigated this situation. The results provide possible in vivo evidence that UX supplements can reduce TMX-mediated oxidative stress and tissues damage in O. mykiss blood and liver tissues.

Nanoparticles Induced Oxidative Damage in Reproductive System and Role of Antioxidants on the Induced Toxicity

Nanotechnology is used in a variety of scientific, medical, and research domains. It is significant to mention that there are negative and severe repercussions of nanotechnology on both individuals and the environment. The toxic effect of nanoparticles exerted on living beings is termed as nanotoxicity. Nanoparticles are synthesized by various methods such as chemical, biological, physical, etc. These nanoparticles’ nanotoxicity has been observed to vary depending on the synthesis process, precursors, size of the particles, etc. Nanoparticles can enter the cell in different ways and can cause cytotoxic effects. In this review, the toxicity caused in the reproductive system and the role of the antioxidants against the nanotoxicity are briefly explained.

A comprehensive review on the photocatalytic inactivation of Microcystis aeruginosa: Performance, development, and mechanisms

Harmful algae blooms (HABs), caused by severe eutrophication and extreme weather, have spread all over the world, posing adverse effects on eco-environment and human health. Microcystis aeruginosa is the dominant harmful cyanobacterial species when HABs occur, and the toxic metabolites produced by it, microcystins, are even fatal to humans. Photocatalytic technology has received wide attention from researchers for its clean and energy-efficient features, while the basic mechanisms and modification methods of photocatalysts have also been widely reported. In recent years, photocatalytic technology has shown great promise in the inhibition of HABs. In this article, we systematically reviewed the progress in photocatalytic performance and algae removal efficiency, discuss the damage mechanisms of photocatalysts for algae removal, including physical damage and various oxidative stresses, and also explore the degradation rates and possible pathways of microcystins. It can be concluded that during the photocatalytic process, the cytoarchitectural integrity of algae cells was damaged, a variety of important protein and enzyme systems were disrupted, and the antioxidant systems collapsed due to the continuous attack of ROS, which adversely affected the normal physiological activities and growth, resulting in the inactivation of algae cells. Moreover, photocatalysts have a degrading effect on microcystins, thus reducing the adverse effects of HAB. Finally, a brief summary of future research priorities regarding the photocatalytic degradation of algae cells is presented. This study helps to enhance the understanding of the destruction mechanism of Microcystis aeruginosa during the photocatalytic process, and provides a reference for the photodegradation of HAB in water bodies.

Nanoparticles Containing Oxaliplatin and the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly widespread malignancy and ranks as the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality.

OBJECTIVE

Cancer patients, including those with CRC, who undergo chemotherapy, are often treated with platinum- based anticancer drugs such as oxaliplatin (OXA). Nevertheless, the administration of OXA is associated with a range of gastrointestinal problems, neuropathy, and respiratory tract infections. Hence, it is necessary to devise a potential strategy that can effectively tackle these aforementioned challenges. The use of nanocarriers has shown great potential in cancer treatment due to their ability to minimize side effects, target drugs directly to cancer cells, and improve drug efficacy. Furthermore, numerous studies have been published regarding the therapeutic efficacy of nanoparticles in the management of colorectal cancer.

METHODS

In this review, we present the most relevant nanostructures used for OXA encapsulation in recent years, such as solid lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, polysaccharides, proteins, silica nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, and synthetic polymer-carriers. Additionally, the paper provides a summary of the disadvantages and limits associated with nanoparticles.

RESULTS

The use of different carriers for the delivery of oxaliplatin increased the efficiency and reduced the side effects of the drug. It has been observed that the majority of research investigations have focused on liposomes and polysaccharides.

CONCLUSION

This potentially auspicious method has the potential to enhance results and enhance the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. However, additional investigation is required to ascertain the most suitable medium for the transportation of oxaliplatin and to assess its efficacy through clinical trials.

Delayed Solvent-Nonsolvent Demixing Preparation and Performance of a Highly Permeable Polyethersulfone Ultrafiltration Membrane

Membrane performance optimization is a critical preparation step that ensures optimum separation and fouling resistance. Several studies have employed additives such as carbon and inorganic nanomaterials to optimize membrane performance. These particles provide excellent results but are rather costly, unstable and toxic to several biological organs. This study demonstrated that performance enhancement can also be achieved through delayed solvent−nonsolvent demixing during phase inversion membrane preparation. The rate of solvent−nonsolvent demixing was delayed by increasing the concentration of the solvent in the coagulation bath. This study employed synthetic and real water samples and several analytical techniques to compare optimized performances and properties of membranes prepared in this study with that of nanoparticle-embedded membranes in the literature. Pure water flux and BSA rejection of the membranes prepared in this study were comparable to those of nanoparticle embedded membranes. This study also shows the influence of delayed solvent−nonsolvent demixing on membrane properties such as morphology, wettability, surface roughness and porosity, thereby showing the suitability of the technique in membrane optimization. Furthermore, fouling studies showed that membranes prepared in this study have high flux recovery when fouled by humic acid feed water (>95%) and above 50% flux recovery with real water samples.

Impact of chitosan administration on titanium dioxide nanoparticles induced testicular dysfunction

The potential reproductive toxic effects of oral TiO₂ NPs in adult male rats as well as the possible alleviation of chitosan administration was investigated. Animals were allocated to four groups; the first group received deionized water and was assigned as a control group. In the second group, rats received chitosan at a dose of 5 mg/kg BW/day. The third group was designed for administration of TiO₂ NPs at a dose of 150 mg/kg BW/day (1/80 LD₅₀). Rats in the fourth group received both TiO₂ NPs and chitosan. After 14 days, TiO₂ NPs induced testicular lipid peroxidation as well as oxidative stress. Nano-titanium significantly upregulated genes that encode apoptosis and inflammation in testicular tissue. Moreover, it induced histological alteration in the testicular structure with impairment in spermatogenesis via reduction of PCNA immune-staining. Chitosan administration significantly improved the activities of testicular GPx, SOD, and CAT enzymes. In addition, it significantly down-regulated the relative expressions of pro-apoptotic and pro-inflammatory testicular genes. Chitosan was able to improve the testicular architecture as well as spermatogenesis. The current study revealed the capability of chitosan to ameliorate nano-titanium induced testicular toxicity. Thus, attention should be given to the extensive consumption of nano-titanium particles.

Strategies for sustained release of heparin: A review

Heparin, a sulfate-containing linear polysaccharide, has proven preclinical and clinical efficacy for a variety of disorders. Heparin, including unfractionated heparin (UFH), low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), and ultra-low-molecular-weight heparin (ULMWH), is administered systematically, in the form of a solution in the clinic. However, it is eliminated quickly, due to its short half-life, especially in the case of UFH and LMWH. Frequent administration is required to ensure its therapeutic efficacy, leading to poor patient compliance. Moreover, heparin is used to coat blood-contacting medical devices to avoid thrombosis through physical interaction. However, the short-term durability of heparin on the surface of the stent limits its further application. Various advanced sustained-release strategies have been used to prolong its half-life in vivo as preparation technologies have improved. Herein, we briefly introduce the pharmacological activity and mechanisms of action of heparin. In addition, the strategies for sustained release of heparin are comprehensively summarized.

Magnetite Metal-Organic Frameworks: Applications in Environmental Remediation of Heavy Metals, Organic Contaminants, and Other Pollutants

Due to the increasing environmental pollution caused by human activities, environmental remediation has become an important subject for humans and environmental safety. The quest for beneficial pathways to remove organic and inorganic contaminants has been the theme of considerable investigations in the past decade. The easy and quick separation made magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE) a popular method for the removal of different pollutants from the environment. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of porous materials best known for their ultrahigh porosity. Moreover, these materials can be easily modified with useful ligands and form various composites with varying characteristics, thus rendering them an ideal candidate as adsorbing agents for MSPE. Herein, research on MSPE, encompassing MOFs as sorbents and Fe₃O₄ as a magnetic component, is surveyed for environmental applications. Initially, assorted pollutants and their threats to human and environmental safety are introduced with a brief introduction to MOFs and MSPE. Subsequently, the deployment of magnetic MOFs (MMOFs) as sorbents for the removal of various organic and inorganic pollutants from the environment is deliberated, encompassing the outlooks and perspectives of this field.

Effects of Selected Metal Nanoparticles (Ag, ZnO, TiO2) on the Structure and Function of Reproductive Organs

Various studies have shown that the reproductive organs are highly sensitive to toxic elements found in the environment. Due to technological progress, the use of nanoparticles has become more common nowadays. Nanoparticles are used for drug delivery because their dimensions allow them to circulate throughout the body and enter directly into the cell. Antimicrobial properties are increasingly used in the manufacture of medical devices, textiles, food packaging, cosmetics, and other consumer products. Nanoparticles provide several benefits, but aspects related to their effects on living organisms and the environment are not well known. This review summarizes current in vivo, and in vitro animal studies focused on the evaluation of toxicity of selected metal nanoparticles (Ag, ZnO, TiO₂) on male and female reproductive health. It can be concluded that higher concentrations of metal nanoparticles in the male reproductive system can cause a decrease in spermatozoa motility, viability and disruption of membrane integrity. Histopathological changes of the testicular epithelium, infiltration of inflammatory cells in the epididymis, and prostatic hyperplasia have been observed. Nanoparticles in the female reproductive system caused their accumulation in the ovaries and uterus. Metal nanoparticles most likely induce polycystic ovary syndrome and follicular atresia, inflammation, apoptosis, and necrosis also occurred.

Tumor-activated carrier-free prodrug nanoparticles for targeted cancer Immunotherapy: Preclinical evidence for safe and effective drug delivery

As immunogenic cell death (ICD) inducers initiating antitumor immune responses, certain chemotherapeutic drugs have shown considerable potential to reverse the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (ITM) into immune-responsive tumors. The application of these drugs in nanomedicine provides a more enhanced therapeutic index by improving unfavorable pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles and inefficient tumor targeting. However, the clinical translation of conventional nanoparticles is restricted by fundamental problems, such as risks of immunogenicity and potential toxicity by carrier materials, premature drug leakage in off-target sites during circulation, low drug loading contents, and complex structure and synthetic processes that hinder quality control (QC) and scale-up industrial production. To address these limitations, tumor-activated carrier-free prodrug nanoparticles (PDNPs), constructed only by the self-assembly of prodrugs without any additional carrier materials, have been widely investigated with distinct advantages for safe and more effective drug delivery. In addition, combination immunotherapy based on PDNPs with other diverse modalities has efficiently reversed the ITM to immune-responsive tumors, potentiating the response to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. In this review, the trends and advances in PDNPs are outlined, and each self-assembly mechanism is discussed. In addition, various combination immunotherapies based on PDNPs are reviewed. Finally, a physical tumor microenvironment remodeling strategy to maximize the potential of PDNPs, and key considerations for clinical translation are highlighted.

Composite Membrane Dressings System with Metallic Nanoparticles as an Antibacterial Factor in Wound Healing

Wound management is the burning problem of modern medicine, significantly burdening developed countries’ healthcare systems. In recent years, it has become clear that the achievements of nanotechnology have introduced a new quality in wound healing. The application of nanomaterials in wound dressing significantly improves their properties and promotes the healing of injuries. Therefore, this review paper presents the subjectively selected nanomaterials used in wound dressings, including the metallic nanoparticles (NPs), and refers to the aspects of their application as antimicrobial factors. The literature review was supplemented with the results of our team’s research on the elements of multifunctional new-generation dressings containing nanoparticles. The wound healing multiple molecular pathways, mediating cell types, and affecting agents are discussed herein. Moreover, the categorization of wound dressings is presented. Additionally, some materials and membrane constructs applied in wound dressings are described. Finally, bacterial participation in wound healing and the mechanism of the antibacterial function of nanoparticles are considered. Membranes involving NPs as the bacteriostatic factors for improving wound healing of skin and bones, including our experimental findings, are discussed in the paper. In addition, some studies of our team concerning the selected bacterial strains’ interaction with material involving different metallic NPs, such as AuNPs, AgNPs, Fe₃O₄NPs, and CuNPs, are presented. Furthermore, nanoparticles’ influence on selected eukaryotic cells is mentioned. The ideal, universal wound dressing still has not been obtained; thus, a new generation of products have been developed, represented by the nanocomposite materials with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties that can influence the wound-healing process.