An in-vivo study for targeted delivery of copper-organic complex to breast cancer using chitosan polymer nanoparticles

PLGA and PDMS-based in situ forming implants loaded with rosuvastatin and copper-selenium nanoparticles: a promising dual-effect formulation with augmented antimicrobial and cytotoxic activity in breast cancer cells

Breast cancer is among the most prevalent tumors worldwide. In this study, in-situ forming implants (ISFIs) containing rosuvastatin calcium were prepared using three types of poly (D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), namely, PLGA 50/50 with ester terminal and PLGA 75/25 with ester or acid terminal. Additionally, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) was added in concentrations of 0, 10, 20, and 30% w/v to accelerate matrix formation. The prepared ISFIs were characterized for their rheological behaviors, rate of matrix formation, and in-vitro drug release. All the prepared formulations revealed a Newtonian flow with a matrix formation rate between 0.017 and 0.059 mm/min. Generally, increasing the concentration of PDMS increased the matrix formation rate. The prepared implants' release efficiency values ranged between 46.39 and 89.75%. The ISFI containing PLGA 50/50 with 30% PDMS was selected for further testing, as it has the highest matrix formation rate and a promising release efficiency value. Copper-selenium nanoparticles were prepared with two different particle sizes (560 and 383 nm for CS1 and CS2, respectively) and loaded into the selected formulation to enhance its anticancer activity. The unloaded and loaded implants with rosuvastatin and copper-selenium nanoparticles were evaluated for their antibacterial activity, against Gram-positive and negative microorganisms, and anticancer efficacy, against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. The results confirmed the potency of rosuvastatin calcium against cancer cells and the synergistic effect when loaded with smaller particle sizes of copper-selenium nanoparticles. This formulation holds a considerable potential for efficient breast cancer therapy.

Antimicrobial fibres derived from aryl-diazonium conjugation of chitosan with Harakeke (Phormium tenax) and Hemp (Cannabis sativa) Hurd

Surface functionalisation of natural materials to develop sustainable and environmentally friendly antimicrobial fibres has received great research interest in recent years. Herein, chitosan covalent conjugation via aryl-diazonium based chemistry onto Phormium tenax fibres (PTF) and hemp hurds (HH) was investigated. PTF are fibres derived from Harakeke/New Zealand flax, an indigenous and abundant plant source of leaf fibres, which served as an important 19th century export commodity of New Zealand. HH are obtained as a by-product from the hemp (Cannabis sativa) industry and find applications as traditional construction material, animal bedding, chemical absorbent, insulation, fireboard etc. This study reports aryl-diazonium covalent attachment of chitosan and PD13 (6-O-(3-(2-(N,N-dimethylamino)ethylamino)-2-hydroxypropyl)chitosan), a chitosan derivative with improved antibacterial activity, on to PTF and HH. The modification was confirmed using FTIR, XPS, SEM and water contact angle studies. Comparison of aryl-diazonium versus the use of succinic anhydride bridging for chitosan attachment was also investigated, with the diazonium method giving improved results. The treated PTF and HH fibres had good antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and this study contributes to the development of sustainable antibacterial fibres using bio-based materials.

Sunset Yellow protects against oxidative damage and exhibits chemoprevention in chemically induced skin cancer model

Skin cancer and other skin-related inflammatory pathologies are rising due to heightened exposure to environmental pollutants and carcinogens. In this context, natural products and repurposed compounds hold promise as novel therapeutic and preventive agents. Strengthening the skin's antioxidant defense mechanisms is pivotal in neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitigating oxidative stress. Sunset Yellow (SY) exhibits immunomodulatory characteristics, evidenced by its capacity to partially inhibit the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, regulate immune cell populations, and modulate the activation of lymphocytes. This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-genotoxic properties of SY using in-silico, in vitro, and physiochemical test systems, and to further explore its potential role in 7,12-dimethylbenz(a) anthracene (DMBA)/ 12-o-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced two-stage skin carcinogenesis. In vitro experiments showed that pre-treatment of SY significantly enhanced the cell viability of HaCaT cells when exposed to tertiary-Butyl Hydrogen Peroxide (tBHP). This increase was accompanied by reduced ROS levels, restoration of mitochondrial membrane potential, and notable reduction in DNA damage in (SY + tBHP) treated cells. Mechanistic investigations using DPPH chemical antioxidant activity test and potentiometric titrations confirmed SY's antioxidant properties, with a standard reduction potential (E o ) of 0.211 V. Remarkably, evaluating the effect of topical application of SY in DMBA/TPA-induced two-step skin carcinogenesis model revealed dose-dependent decreases in tumor latency, incidence, yield, and burden over 21-weeks. Furthermore, computational analysis and experimental validations identified GSK3β, KEAP1 and EGFR as putative molecular targets of SY. Collectively, our findings reveal that SY enhances cellular antioxidant defenses, exhibits anti-genotoxic effects, and functions as a promising chemopreventive agent.

Alleviation of Diabetic Retinopathy by Glucose-Triggered Delivery of Vitamin D via Dextran-Gated Functionalized Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common retinal disorder, developed in 35% of patients with diabetes mellitus. Lower serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D are associated with the increased risk of developing DR. High doses of the active form of vitamin D (VD), on the contrary, for a long period of time may lead to hypercalcemia and an imbalance in the regulation of bone metabolism. Herein, we studied the efficacy of dextran-gated carboxyphenylboronic acid (CPBA)-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) for glucose-sensitive delivery of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 to modulate cellular oxidative stress and inflammation for managing DR. The physical adsorption technique was employed to load VD onto nanoparticles (263.63 μg/mg (w/w)). In the presence of glucose, the dextran molecules detach from pores, allowing VD to release since glucose has 1,2-cis diol groups which have very high affinity to CPBA. Approximately 75% of VD was released upon exposure to 25 mM glucose at a time point of 10 h, demonstrating glucose-responsive delivery. Furthermore, MSN-CPBA was able to deliver VD in a glucose-dependent manner and improve the bioavailability of VD. In high-glucose-supplemented human retinal cells, MSN-CPBA increased the bioavailability of VD and reduced cellular oxidative stress and inflammation. The results suggested that the VD-loaded nanocarrier exerted remarkable therapeutic capacity in reducing the risk of developing DR. By using MSN-CPBA as a delivery platform with dextran gating, the research proposes an effective treatment approach for improving the bioavailability and effectiveness of a hydrophobic molecule in the treatment of DR.

Chitosan-functionalized bioplatforms and hydrogels in breast cancer: immunotherapy, phototherapy and clinical perspectives

Breast cancer is the most common and malignant tumor among women. Chitosan (CS)-based nanoparticles have been introduced into breast cancer therapy as a way to increase the targeted delivery of drugs and genes to the tumor site. CS nanostructures suppress tumorigenesis by enhancing both the targeted delivery of cargo (drug and gene) and its accumulation in tumor cells. The tumor cells internalize CS-based nanoparticles through endocytosis. Moreover, chitosan nanocarriers can also induce phototherapy-mediated tumor ablation. Smart and multifunctional types of CS nanoparticles, including pH-, light- and redox-responsive nanoparticles, can be used to improve the potential for breast cancer removal. In addition, the acceleration of immunotherapy by CS nanoparticles has also been achieved, and there is potential to develop CS-nanoparticle hydrogels that can be used to suppress tumorigenesis.

Aza-phenol Based Macrocyclic Probes Design for "CHEF-on" Multi Analytes Sensor: Crystal Structure Elucidation and Application in Biological Cell Imaging

Metal bound macrocyclic compounds found in biological systems inspired us to design and synthesize two Robson-type macrocyclic Schiff-base chemosensors, H ₂ L1 (H ₂ L1=1,11-dimethyl-6,16-dithia-3,9,13,19-tetraaza-1,11(1,3)-dibenzenacycloicosaphane-2,9,12,19-tetraene-1,11-diol) and H ₂ L2 (H ₂ L2=1,11-dimethyl-6,16-dioxa-3,9,13,19-tetraaza-1,11(1,3)-dibenzenacycloicosaphane-2,9,12,19-tetraene-1,11-diol). Both the chemosensors have been characterized with different spectroscopic techniques. They act as multianalyte sensor and exhibit "turn-on" fluorescence toward different metal ions in 1X PBS (Phosphate Buffered Saline) solution. In presence of Zn²⁺, Al³⁺, Cr³⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions, H ₂ L1 exhibits ∼6-fold enhancement of emission intensity, while H ₂ L2 shows ∼6-fold enhancement of emission intensity in the presence of Zn²⁺, Al³⁺ and Cr³⁺ ions. The interaction between the different metal ion and chemosensor have been examined by absorption, emission, and ¹H NMR spectroscopy as well as by ESI-MS⁺ analysis. We have successfully isolated and solved the crystal structure of the complex [Zn(H ₂ L1)(NO₃)]NO₃ (1) by X-ray crystallography. The crystal structure of 1 shows 1:1 metal:ligand stoichiometry and helps to understand the observed PET-Off-CHEF-On sensing mechanism. LOD values of H ₂ L1 and H ₂ L2 toward metal ions are found to be ∼10^-8 and ∼10^-7 M, respectively. Large Stokes shifts of the probes against analytes (∼100 nm) make them a suitable candidate for biological cell imaging studies. Robson type phenol based macrocyclic fluorescence sensors are very scarce in the literature. Therefore, the tuning of structural parameters as the number and nature of donor atoms, their relative locations and presence of rigid aromatic groups can lead to the design of new chemosensors, which can accommodate different charged/neutral guest(s) inside its cavity. The study of the spectroscopic properties of this type of macrocyclic ligands and their complexes might open a new avenue of chemosensors.

Emerging Role of ERBB2 in Targeted Therapy for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Signaling Pathways to Therapeutic Strategies

Simple Summary

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed malignancy and the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Currently available targeted therapies for metastatic CRC mainly target vascular endothelial growth factor and epidermal growth factor receptor in RAS wild-type tumors. Although Erb-B2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (ERBB2/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) plays a significant therapeutic role in breast and gastric cancers, there are no licensed ERBB2-targeted therapies for metastatic CRC. This review aims to outline the molecular biology of ERBB2-positive metastatic CRC and potential targeted therapeutic strategies.

Abstract

Despite recent improvements in the comprehensive therapy of malignancy, metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) continues to have a poor prognosis. Notably, 5% of mCRC cases harbor Erb-B2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (ERBB2) alterations. ERBB2, commonly referred to as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, is a member of the human epidermal growth factor receptor family of protein tyrosine kinases. In addition to being a recognized therapeutic target in the treatment of gastric and breast malignancies, it is considered crucial in the management of CRC. In this review, we describe the molecular biology of ERBB2 from the perspective of biomarkers for mCRC-targeted therapy, including receptor structures, signaling pathways, gene alterations, and their detection methods. We also discuss the relationship between ERBB2 aberrations and the underlying mechanisms of resistance to anti-EGFR therapy and immunotherapy tolerance in these patients with a focus on novel targeted therapeutics and ongoing clinical trials. This may aid the development of a new standard of care in patients with ERBB2-positive mCRC.

Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Provides Novel Molecular Events for the Differentiation and Maturation of Hepatocytes during the Liver Development of Zebrafish

The liver plays an essential role in multiple biological functions including metabolism, detoxification, digestion, coagulation, and homeostasis in vertebrates. The specification and differentiation of embryonic hepatoblasts, the proliferation of hepatocytes, and the hepatic tissue architecture are well documented, but molecular events governing the maturation of hepatocytes during liver development remain largely unclear. In this study, we performed a comparative transcriptome analysis of hepatocytes that were sorted by flow cytometry from developing zebrafish embryos at 60, 72, and 96 hpf. We identified 667 up-regulated and 3640 down-regulated genes in hepatocytes between 60 and 72 hpf, 606 up-regulated and 3924 down-regulated genes between 60 and 96 hpf, and 1693 up-regulated genes and 1508 down-regulated genes between 72 and 96 hpf. GO enrichment analysis revealed that key biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions in hepatocytes between 60 to 72 hpf, such as cell cycle, DNA replication, DNA repair, RNA processing, and transcription regulation, are mainly associated with the proliferation of hepatocytes. In addition to biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions for cell proliferation, molecular functions for carbohydrate metabolism were enriched in hepatocytes during 72 to 96 hpf. KEGG enrichment analysis identified key signaling pathways, such as cell cycle, RNA degradation, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, ErbB and Hedgehog signaling, basal transcription factors, Wnt signaling, and glycan degradation, which are closely associated with cell proliferation or carbohydrate metabolism in hepatocytes between 60 to 72 hpf. Newly enriched signaling pathways in hepatocytes during 72 to 96 hpf include metabolisms of pyrimidine, purine, nicotinate and nicotinamide, caffeine, glycine, serine and threonine, ABC transporters, and p53 signaling that function in metabolisms of lipid, protein and energy, cellular secretion, or detoxification, indicating the functional maturation of hepatocytes between 72 to 96 hpf. These findings provide novel clues for further understanding the functional differentiation and maturation of hepatocytes during liver development.

Polymeric Nanosystems Applied for Metal-Based Drugs and Photosensitizers Delivery: The State of the Art and Recent Advancements

Nanotechnology-based approaches for targeting the delivery and controlled release of metal-based therapeutic agents have revealed significant potential as tools for enhancing the therapeutic effect of metal-based agents and minimizing their systemic toxicities. In this context, a series of polymer-based nanosized systems designed to physically load or covalently conjugate metal-based therapeutic agents have been remarkably improving their bioavailability and anticancer efficacy. Initially, the polymeric nanocarriers were applied for platinum-based chemotherapeutic agents resulting in some nanoformulations currently in clinical tests and even in medical applications. At present, these nanoassemblies have been slowly expanding for nonplatinum-containing metal-based chemotherapeutic agents. Interestingly, for metal-based photosensitizers (PS) applied in photodynamic therapy (PDT), especially for cancer treatment, strategies employing polymeric nanocarriers have been investigated for almost 30 years. In this review, we address the polymeric nanocarrier-assisted metal-based therapeutics agent delivery systems with a specific focus on non-platinum systems; we explore some biological and physicochemical aspects of the polymer–metallodrug assembly. Finally, we summarize some recent advances in polymeric nanosystems coupled with metal-based compounds that present potential for successful clinical applications as chemotherapeutic or photosensitizing agents. We hope this review can provide a fertile ground for the innovative design of polymeric nanosystems for targeting the delivery and controlled release of metal-containing therapeutic agents.

Folic acid conjugated chitosan encapsulated palladium nanoclusters for NIR triggered photothermal breast cancer treatment

This study developed folic acid (FA) conjugated chitosan (CS) encapsulated rutin (R) synthesized palladium nanoclusters (Pd NCs) for NIR triggered and folate receptor (FR) targeted triple-negative breast cancer (MDA-MB 231 cells) treatment. R-Pd NCs exhibited flower-shaped particles with an average size of <100 nm. FA-CS encapsulation concealed the flower shape of R-Pd NCs with a positive charge. The XRD spectrum confirmed the cubic crystalline structure of Pd. The FA conjugation on CS improved the cellular uptake of R-Pd NCs in MDA-MB 231 cells was confirmed by TEM. FA-CS-R-Pd NCs (+NIR) treatment was considerably inhibited the MDA-MB 231 cells proliferation evidenced by cell viability, fluorescent staining, and flow cytometry analysis. Further, in vitro hemolysis assay and in Ovo model confirmed the non-toxic nature of FA-CS-R-Pd-NCs with or without NIR radiation. Hence, this study concluded that FA-CS-R-Pd NCs can be applied for the treatment of drug-resistant breast cancer.

Affimer Tagged Cubosomes: Targeting of Carcinoembryonic Antigen Expressing Colorectal Cancer Cells Using In Vitro and In Vivo Models

Nanomedicines, while having been approved for cancer therapy, present many challenges such as low stability, rapid clearance, and nonspecificity leading to off-target toxicity. Cubosomes are porous lyotropic liquid crystalline nanoparticles that have shown great premise as drug delivery vehicles; however, their behavior in vivo is largely underexplored, hindering clinical translation. Here, we have engineered cubosomes based on the space group Im3m that are loaded with copper acetylacetonate as a model drug, and their surfaces are functionalized for the first time with Affimer proteins via copper-free click chemistry to actively target overexpressed carcinoembryonic antigens on LS174T colorectal cancer cells. Unlike nontargeted cubosomes, Affimer tagged cubosomes showed preferential accumulation in cancer cells compared to normal cells not only in vitro (2D monolayer cell culture and 3D spheroid models) but also in vivo in colorectal cancer mouse xenografts, while exhibiting low nonspecific absorption and toxicity in other vital organs. Cancerous spheroids had maximum cell death compared to noncancerous cells upon targeted delivery. Xenografts subjected to targeted drug-loaded cubosomes showed a 5-7-fold higher drug accumulation in the tumor tissue compared to the liver, kidneys, and other vital organs, a significant decrease in tumor growth, and an increased survival rate compared to the nontargeted group. This work encompasses the first thorough preclinical investigation of Affimer targeted cubosomes as a cancer therapeutic.

Antibody-Drug Conjugates in Urothelial Carcinoma: A New Therapeutic Opportunity Moves from Bench to Bedside

Significant progress has been achieved over the last decades in understanding the biology and mechanisms of tumor progression in urothelial carcinoma (UC). Although the therapeutic landscape has dramatically changed in recent years with the introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors, advanced UC is still associated with rapidly progressing disease and poor survival. The increasing knowledge of the pathogenesis and molecular pathways underlying cancer development and progression is leading the introduction of target therapies, such as the recently approved FGFR inhibitor Erdafitinib, or the anti-nectin 4 antibody drug-conjugate Enfortumab vedotin. Antibody drug conjugates represent an innovative therapeutic approach that allows the combination of a tar get-specific monoclonal antibody covalently conjugated via a linker to a cytotoxic agent (payload). UC is a perfect candidate for this therapeutic approach since it is particularly enriched in antigen expression on its surface and each specific antigen can represent a potential therapeutic target. In this review we summarize the mechanism of action of ADCs, their applications in localized and metastatic UC, the main mechanisms of resistance, and future perspectives for their use in clinical practice.

Opportunities in combinational chemo-immunotherapy for breast cancer using nanotechnology: an emerging landscape

INTRODUCTION

Breast carcinoma (BC) is one of the most frequent causes of cancer-related death among women, which is due to the poor response to conventional therapy. There are several complications associated with monotherapy for cancer, such as cytotoxicity to normal cells, multidrug resistance (MDR), side effects, and limited applications. To overcome these challenges, a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy (monoclonal antibodies, anticancer vaccines, checkpoint inhibitors, and cytokines) has been introduced. Drug delivery systems (DDSs) based on nanotechnology have more applications in BC treatment owing to their controlled and targeted drug release with lower toxicity and reduced adverse drug effects. Several nanocarriers, such as liposomes, nanoparticles, dendrimers, and micelles, have been used for the effective delivery of drugs.

AREAS COVERED

This article presents opportunities and challenges in BC treatment, the rationale for cancer immunotherapy, and several combinational approaches with their applications for BC treatment.

EXPERT OPINION

Nanotechnology can be used for the early prognosis and cure of BC. Several novel and targeted DDSs have been developed to enhance the efficacy of anticancer drugs. This article aims to understand new strategies for the treatment of BC and the appropriate design of nanocarriers used as a combinational DDS.

Aza-Crown-Based Macrocyclic Probe Design for "PET-off" Multi-Cu2+ Responsive and "CHEF-on" Multi-Zn2+ Sensor: Application in Biological Cell Imaging and Theoretical Studies

The work represents a rare example of an aza-crown-based macrocyclic chemosensor, H₂DTC (H₂DTC = 1,16-dihydroxy-tetraaza-30-crown-8) for the selective detection of both Zn²⁺ and Cu²⁺ in HEPES buffer medium (pH 7.4). H₂DTC exhibits a fluorescence response for both Zn²⁺ and Cu²⁺ ions. The reversibility of the chemosensor in its binding with Zn²⁺ and Cu²⁺ ions is also examined using a Na₂EDTA solution. H₂DTC exhibits a chelation-enhanced fluorescence (CHEF) effect in the presence of Zn²⁺ ions and a quenching effect (CHEQ) in the presence of paramagnetic Cu²⁺ ions. Furthermore, the geometry and spectral properties of H₂DTC and the chemosensor bound to Zn²⁺ have been studied by DFT and TDDFT calculations. The limit of detection (LOD) values are 0.11 × 10^-9 and 0.27 × 10^-9 M for Cu²⁺ and Zn²⁺, respectively. The formation constants for the Zn²⁺ and Cu²⁺ complexes have been measured by pH-potentiometry in 0.15 M NaCl in 70:30 (v:v) water:ethanol at 298.1 K. UV-vis absorption and fluorometric spectral data and pH-potentiometric titrations indicate 1:1 and 2:1 metal:chemosensor species. In the solid state H₂DTC is able to accommodate up to four metal ions, as proved by the crystal structures of the complexes [Zn₄(DTC)(OH)₂(NO₃)₄] (1) and {[Cu₄(DTC)(OCH₃)₂(NO₃)₄]·H₂O}_n (2). H₂DTC can be used as a potential chemosensor for monitoring Zn²⁺ and Cu²⁺ ions in biological and environmental media with outstanding accuracy and precision. The propensity of H₂DTC to detect intracellular Cu²⁺ and Zn²⁺ ions in the triple negative human breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-468 and in HeLa cells has been determined by fluorescence cell imaging.

Application of chitosan modified nanocarriers in breast cancer

As per the WHO, every year around 2.1 million women are detected with breast cancer. It is one of the most invasive cancer in women and second most among all, contributing around 15% of death worldwide. The available anticancer therapies including chemo, radio, and hormone therapy are associated with a high load of reversible and irreversible adverse effects, limited therapeutic efficacy, and low chances of quality survival. To minimize the side effects, improving therapeutic potency and patient compliance promising targeted therapies are highly desirable. In this sequence, various nanocarriers and target modified systems have been explored by researchers throughout the world. Among these chitosan-based nanocarriers offers one of the most interesting, flexible, and biocompatible systems. The unique characteristics of chitosan like surface flexibility, biocompatibility, hydrophilicity, non-toxic and cost-effective behavior assist to overcome the inadequacy of existing therapy. The present review throws light on the successes, failures, and current status of chitosan modified novel techniques for tumor targeting of bioactives. It also emphasizes the molecular classification of breast cancer and current clinical development of novel therapies. The review compiles most relevant works of the past 10 years focusing on the application of chitosan-based nanocarrier against breast cancer.

Prospects and challenges of anticancer agents' delivery via chitosan-based drug carriers to combat breast cancer: a review

Breast cancer (BC) is considered as one the most prevalent cancers worldwide. Due to its high resistance to chemotherapy and high probability of metastasis, BC is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. The controlled release of chemotherapy drugs to the precise site of the tumor tissue will increase the therapeutic efficacy and decrease side effects of systemic administration. Among various drug delivery systems, natural polymers-based drug carriers have gained significant attention for cancer therapy. Chitosan, a natural polymer obtained by de-acetylation of chitin, holds huge potential for drug delivery applications because chitosan is non-toxic, non-immunogenic, biocompatible, chemically modifiable, and can be processed to form various formulations. In the current review, we will discuss the prospects and challenges of chitosan-based drug delivery systems in treating BC.

Chitosan Nanomedicine in Cancer Therapy: Targeted Delivery and Cellular Uptake

Nanomedicine has gained much attention for the management and treatment of cancers due to the distinctive physicochemical properties of the drug-loaded particles. Chitosan's cationic nature is attractive for the development of such particles for drug delivery, transfection, and controlled release. The particle properties can be improved by modification of the polymer or the particle themselves. The physicochemical properties of chitosan particles are analyzed in 126 recent studies, which allows to highlight their impact on passive and active targeted drug delivery, cellular uptake, and tumor growth inhibition (TGI). From 2012 to 2019, out of 40 in vivo studies, only 4 studies are found reporting a reduction in tumor size by using chitosan particles while all other studies reported tumor growth inhibition relative to controls. A total of 23 studies are analyzed for cellular uptake including 12 studies reporting cellular uptake mechanisms. Understanding and exploiting the processes involved in targeted delivery, endocytosis, and exocytosis by controlling the physicochemical properties of chitosan particles are important for the development of safe and efficient nanomedicine. It is concluded based on the recent literature available on chitosan particles that combination therapies can play a pivotal role in transformation of chitosan nanomedicine from bench to bedside.

Microfluidics for core-shell drug carrier particles - a review

Core-shell drug-carrier particles are known for their unique features. Due to the combination of superior properties not exhibited by the individual components, core-shell particles have gained a lot of interest. The structures could integrate core and shell characteristics and properties. These particles were designed for controlled drug release in the desired location. Therefore, the side effects would be minimized. So, these particles' advantages have led to the introduction of new methods and ideas for their fabrication. In the past few years, the generation of drug carrier core-shell particles in microfluidic chips has attracted much attention. This method makes it possible to produce particles at nanometer and micrometer levels of the same shape and size; it usually costs less than other methods. The other advantages of using microfluidic techniques compared to conventional bulk methods are integration capability, reproducibility, and higher efficiency. These advantages have created a positive outlook on this approach. This review gives an overview of the various fluidic concepts that are used to generate microparticles or nanoparticles. Also, an overview of traditional and more recent microfluidic devices and their design and structure for the generation of core-shell particles is given. The unique benefits of the microfluidic technique for core-shell drug carrier particle generation are demonstrated.

Essential oil impregnated luminescent hydroxyapatite: Antibacterial and cytotoxicity studies

In this study, porous fluorescent nanocrystalline erbium doped hydroxyapatite (eHAp) was synthesized via hydrothermal assisted co-precipitation method. Eucalyptus oil (EU), frankincense oil (FO), Tea tree oil (TTO), wintergreen oil (WO) were successfully absorbed into eHAp pellet by vacuum filtration technique using Buckner funnel. Phase crystallization, fluorescence property and microstructure of eHAp were confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Photoluminiscence spectroscopy (PL) and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Strong antimicrobial activity was observed for EU, TTO and WO on both E. coli and S. aureus mediated by cell membrane damage and leakage of cytoplasmic components. The oil absorbed eHAp nanocomposites were found to be moderately biocompatible with normal WI-38 cells up to MIC concentration various time scale. The nanocomposites showed significant cytotoxic activity on breast cancer cell line MDA-MB 468 and the fluorescent property of the eHAp was utilized to visualize internalization of particles in the cells. The release profile of the oils from the eHAp matrix showed pH dependent release indicated that the porous matrix can be used as a suitable carrier for modulated and sustained release of bioactive components. Thus, given the multifunctional attributes these natural essential oil-based nanocomposites show great promise as an alternative to conventional therapeutic treatments.

The development of two fluorescent chemosensors for the selective detection of Zn2+ and Al3+ ions in a quinoline platform by tuning the substituents in the receptor part: elucidation of the structures of the metal-bound chemosensors and biological studies

Two aminoquinoline-based chemosensors (HL1 and HL2) are reported for selective detection of Zn²⁺ and Al³⁺ ions.

Copper-tolfenamic acid: evaluation of stability and anti-cancer activity

The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, Tolfenamic acid (TA) acts as an anti-cancer agent in several adult and pediatric cancer models. Copper (Cu) is an important element with multiple biological functions and has gained interest in medical applications. Recently, [Cu(TA)2(bpy)] (Cu-TA) has been synthesized in order to enhance therapeutic activity. In this study, we synthesized Cu-TA using an established method, characterized it by UV visible spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and tested its anti-cancer activity using twelve cell lines representing various cancers, such as Ewing sarcoma, glioblastoma, medulloblastoma, neuroblastoma, pancreatic and prostate. The anti-proliferative activity of Cu-TA was determined at 48 h post-treatment and compared with the parental compound, TA. The IC50 values were calculated using GraphPad Prism software. The biological stability of Cu-TA was evaluated using twelve-month-old powder and six-month-old stock solution. Cardiomyocytes (H9C2) were used to test the cytotoxicity in non-malignant cells. Cu-TA showed higher anti-proliferative activity, and the IC50 values were 30 to 80% lower when compared with TA. H9C2 cells were non-responsive to Cu-TA, suggesting that it is selective towards malignant cells. Comparison of the twelve-month-old powder and six-month-old stock solution using the Panc1 cell line showed similar IC50 values (<5% variation), confirming the stability of Cu-TA either in powder or solution form. These findings demonstrate the potential of Cu-TA as an effective anti-cancer agent. Further studies to delineate the detailed mechanism of action of Cu-TA for specific cancer model are underway.

Fabrication of curcumin-loaded folic acid-tagged metal organic framework for triple negative breast cancer therapy inin vitroandin vivosystems

Curcumin has shown therapeutic activity against triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, but it shows low efficacy and low bioavailability when administered as a free drug.

MRI-visible and pH-sensitive micelles loaded with doxorubicin for hepatoma treatment

A novel pH-sensitive micelle was constructed to efficiently co-deliver SPIONs and doxorubicin for cancer theranostic application.

Enhanced cytotoxic and apoptotic potential in hepatic carcinoma cells of chitosan nanoparticles loaded with ginsenoside compound K

Ginsenoside compound K (CK) has been shown to exhibit anticancer properties. In this study, chitosan nanoparticles loaded with ginsenoside compound K (CK-NPs) were prepared as a delivery system using a self-assembly technique with amphipathic deoxycholic acid-O carboxymethyl chitosan as the carrier, which improved the water solubility of CK. By evaluating drug loading, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro release behavior, the feasibility of CK-NPs as a drug carrier nanoparticle for the treatment of human hepatic carcinoma cells (HepG2) was investigated. Result revealed that CK and CK-NPs showed a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on HepG2 cells with IC₅₀ values of 23.33 and 16.58 μg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, fluorescence imaging demonstrated that CK-NPs promoted cellular uptake in vitro. Therefore, all results indicated that CK-NPs might be a novel drug delivery system to improve the solubility and enhance the cytotoxic and apoptotic potentials of CK for effective liver cancer chemotherapy.

Clinically advancing and promising polymer-based therapeutics

In this review article, we will examine the history of polymers and their evolution from provisional World War II materials to medical therapeutics. To provide a comprehensive look at the current state of polymer-based therapeutics, we will classify technologies according to targeted areas of interest, including central nervous system-based and intraocular-, gastrointestinal-, cardiovascular-, dermal-, reproductive-, skeletal-, and neoplastic-based systems. Within each of these areas, we will consider several examples of novel, clinically available polymer-based therapeutics; in addition, this review will also include a discussion of developing therapies, ranging from the in vivo to clinical trial stage, for each targeted area of treatment. Finally, we will emphasize areas of patient care in need of more effective, accessible, and targeted treatment approaches where polymer-based therapeutics may offer potential solutions.

Dual release kinetics in a single dosage from core–shell hydrogel scaffolds

The development of drug delivery systems with microencapsulated therapeutic agents is a promising approach to the sustained and controlled delivery of various drug molecules. The incorporation of dual release kinetics to such delivery devices further adds to their applicability. Herein, novel core–shell scaffolds composed of sodium deoxycholate and trishydroxymethylaminomethane (NaDC–Tris) have been developed with the aim of delivering two different drugs with variable release rates using the same delivery vehicle. Data obtained from XRD studies, sol–gel transition temperature measurement, rheology and fluorescence studies of the core–shell systems indicate a significant alteration in the core and the shell microstructural properties in a given system as compared to the pure hydrogels of identical compositions. The release of the model drugs Fluorescein (FL) and Rhodamine B (RhB) from the shell and the core, respectively, of the two core–shell designs studied exhibited distinctly different release kinetics. In the 25@250 core–shell system, 100% release of FL from the shell and 19% release of RhB from the core was observed within the first 5 hours, while 24.5 hours was required for the complete release of RhB from the core. For the 100@250 system, similar behaviour was observed with varied release rates and a sigmoidal increase in the core release rate upon disappearance from the shell. Cell viability studies suggested the minimal toxicity of the developed delivery vehicles towards NMuMG and WI-38 cells in the concentration range investigated. The reported core–shell systems composed of a single low molecular weight gelator with dual release kinetics may be designed as per the desired application for the consecutive release of therapeutic agents as required, as well as combination therapy commonly used to treat diseases such as diabetes and cancer.

A single LMW gelator based core–shell hydrogel with dual release kinetics.

Significant role of cationic polymers in drug delivery systems

Cationic polymers are characterized as the macromolecules that possess positive charges, which can be either inherently in the polymer side chains and/or its backbone. Based on their origins, cationic polymers are divided in two category including natural and synthetic, in which the possessed positive charges are as result of primary, secondary or tertiary amine functional groups that could be protonated in particular situations. Cationic polymers have been employed commonly as drug delivery agents due to their superior encapsulation efficacy, enhanced bioavailability, low toxicity and improved release profile. In this paper, we focus on the most prominent examples of cationic polymers which have been revealed to be applicable in drug delivery systems and we also discuss their general synthesis and surface modification methods as well as their controlled release profile in drug delivery.

High copper concentrations produce genotoxicity and cytotoxicity in bovine cumulus cells

The aim of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of high copper (Cu) concentrations on bovine cumulus cells (CCs) cultured in vitro. We evaluated the effect of 0, 120, 240, and 360 μg/dL Cu added to in vitro maturation (IVM) medium on CC viability assessed by the trypan blue (TB)-fluorescein diacetate (FDA) and 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays, apoptosis, and DNA damage. Differences in cell viability assessed by TB-FDA were not significant among CC treated with 0, 120, 240, and 360 μg/dL Cu. However, mitochondrial activity assessed by MTT was lower in CC cultured with 120, 240, and 360 μg/dL Cu as compared with the control (p < 0.01). Percentages of apoptotic cells were higher when CCs were treated with 120, 240, and 360 μg/dL Cu (p < 0.05) due to higher frequencies of late apoptotic cells (p < 0.05). The frequency of live cells diminished in a dose-dependent manner when Cu was added to the culture medium. Whereas genetic damage index (GDI) increased significantly in CC cultured in the presence of 240 and 360 μg/dL Cu (p ˂ 0.05), DNA damage increased at all Cu concentrations tested (p ˂ 0.05). These results indicate that Cu induces cytotoxic and genotoxic effects in bovine CC.

Nanoparticles as Theranostic Vehicles in Experimental and Clinical Applications-Focus on Prostate and Breast Cancer

Prostate and breast cancer are the second most and most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and women worldwide, respectively. The American Cancer Society estimates that during 2016 in the USA around 430,000 individuals were diagnosed with one of these two types of cancers, and approximately 15% of them will die from the disease. In Europe, the rate of incidences and deaths are similar to those in the USA. Several different more or less successful diagnostic and therapeutic approaches have been developed and evaluated in order to tackle this issue and thereby decrease the death rates. By using nanoparticles as vehicles carrying both diagnostic and therapeutic molecular entities, individualized targeted theranostic nanomedicine has emerged as a promising option to increase the sensitivity and the specificity during diagnosis, as well as the likelihood of survival or prolonged survival after therapy. This article presents and discusses important and promising different kinds of nanoparticles, as well as imaging and therapy options, suitable for theranostic applications. The presentation of different nanoparticles and theranostic applications is quite general, but there is a special focus on prostate cancer. Some references and aspects regarding breast cancer are however also presented and discussed. Finally, the prostate cancer case is presented in more detail regarding diagnosis, staging, recurrence, metastases, and treatment options available today, followed by possible ways to move forward applying theranostics for both prostate and breast cancer based on promising experiments performed until today.

Bio-synthesis of peppermint leaf extract polyphenols capped nano-platinum and their in-vitro cytotoxicity towards colon cancer cell lines (HCT 116)

Bio-synthesis of Platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs) was achieved using Mentha piperita (Peppermint) aqueous leaf extract. Further the ecofriendly synthesized Pt NPs were subjected for various characterization techniques. The characterization results inferred that the green synthesized Pt NPs were said to be in average particle size of 54.3nm. The particles are in spherical shape and it has been entrapped with secondary metabolites (Polyphenols). The polyphenols capped Pt NPs were screened for cytotoxicity against human colon cancer cell line (HCT 116). The results inferred that the ecofriendly synthesized Pt NPs decrease the viability of cancer cells at lower concentrations with IC₅₀ value of 20μg/mL.

Targeted delivery of Bcl-2 conversion gene by MPEG-PCL-PEI-FA cationic copolymer to combat therapeutic resistant cancer

Deregulation of anti-apoptosis Bcl-2 protein expression was a key feature in human cancers with therapeutic resistance. Nuclear receptor Nur77 could induce the conformation change of Bcl-2 protein and converted it into an apoptosis inducer by "enemy to friend" strategy. However, the safe and effective delivery of this gene to combat therapeutic resistant cancer remained largely unexplored. In this report, we designed an amphiphilic cationic MPEG-PCL-PEI-FA copolymer, comprising biocompatible and hydrophilic methoxy-poly(ethylene glycol) (MPEG), biodegradable and hydrophobic poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), cationic poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) segments, and folic acid (FA) as targeting group, as a high efficient Nur77 gene carrier to folate receptor (FR) highly expressed and therapeutic resistant HeLa/Bcl-2 cancer cells. Interestingly, due to the incorporation of PCL and PEG segments, this MPEG-PCL-PEI-FA copolymer showed less toxicity but better gene transfection efficiency than non-viral gene carrier gold standard PEI (25kDa). This might be due to the formation of micelles to stabilize polyplex for enhanced gene transfection ability. More importantly, MPEG-PCL-PEI-FA copolymer exhibited excellent growth inhibition ability on therapeutic resistant HeLa/Bcl-2 cancer cells, which was FR overexpressed HeLa cervical cancer cells with high expression of Bcl-2 protein, thanks to its FA induced targeting ability, high gene transfection efficiency, and low cytotoxicity. This work signifies the first time that cationic amphiphilic MPEG-PCL-PEI-FA copolymers could be utilized for the gene delivery to therapeutic resistant cancer cells with high expression of anti-apoptosis Bcl-2 protein and the positive results are encouraging for the further design of polymeric platforms for combating drug resistant tumors.

Novel biodegradable nanocarriers for enhanced drug delivery

With the refinement of functional properties, the interest around biodegradable materials, in biorelated applications and, in particular, in their use as controlled drug-delivery systems, increased in the last decades. Biodegradable materials are an ideal platform to obtain nanoparticles for spatiotemporal controlled drug delivery for the in vivo administration, thanks to their biocompatibility, functionalizability, the control exerted on delivery rates and the complete degradation. Their application in systems for cancer treatment, brain and cardiovascular diseases is already a consolidated practice in research, while the bench-to-bedside translation is still late. This review aims at summarizing reported applications of biodegradable materials to obtain drug-delivery nanoparticles in the last few years, giving a complete overview of pros and cons related to degradable nanomedicaments.

Co-delivery of doxorubicin and the traditional Chinese medicine quercetin using biotin–PEG2000–DSPE modified liposomes for the treatment of multidrug resistant breast cancer

At present, multidrug resistance (MDR) in cancer therapy is an international problem, which is caused mostly by the overexpressed P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux pump.