TPGS-chitosan cross-linked targeted nanoparticles for effective brain cancer therapy

Chitosan in cancer therapy: a dual role as a therapeutic agent and drug delivery system

Although chemotherapy is still the most preferred treatment for cancer, most chemotherapeutic agents target both cancer cells and healthy cells and cause serious side effects due to high toxicity. Improved drug delivery systems (DDSs), which enhance the efficacy of current chemotherapeutic drugs while reducing their toxicity, offer potential solutions to these challenges. Chitosan (CS) and its derivatives are biopolymers with biodegradable, biocompatible, and low-toxicity properties, and their structure allows for convenient chemical and mechanical modifications. In its role as a therapeutic agent, CS can impede the proliferation of tumor cells through the inhibition of angiogenesis and metastasis, as well as by triggering apoptosis. CS and its derivatives are also frequently preferred as DDSs due to their properties such as high drug-carrying capacity, polycationic structure, long-term circulation, and direct targeting of cancer cells. Various therapeutic agents linked to CS and its derivatives demonstrate potent anticancer effects with advantages such as reduced side effects compared to the original drugs, owing to factors like targeted distribution within cancer tissues and sustained release. This review emphasizes the utilization of CS and its derivatives, both as therapeutic agents and as carriers for established chemotherapeutic drugs.

PTSA-induced synthesis, in silico and nano study of novel ethylquinolin-thiazolo-triazole in cervical cancer

Aim: p-Toluenesulfonic acid-(PTSA) and grinding-induced novel synthesis of ethylquinolin-thiazolo-triazole derivatives was performed using green chemistry. Materials & methods: Development of a nanoconjugate drug-delivery system of ethylquinolin-thiazolo-triazole was carried out with D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) and the formulation was further characterized by transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, dynamic light scattering and in vitro drug release assay. The effect of 3a nanoparticles was assessed against a cervical cancer cell line (HeLa) through the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and the effect on apoptosis was determined. Results & discussion: The 3a nanoparticles triggered the apoptotic mode of cell death after increasing the intracellular reactive oxygen level by enhancing cellular uptake of micelles. Furthermore, in silico studies revealed higher absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination and toxicity properties and bioavailability of the enzyme tyrosine protein kinase. Conclusion: The 3a nanoparticles enhanced the therapeutic potential and have higher potential for targeted drug delivery against cervical cancer.

Fe3O4@Chitosan@ZIF-8@RVG29, an anti-glioma nanoplatform guided by fixed and activated by alternating magnetic field

There is considerable interest in developing anti-glioma nanoplatforms. They make the all-in-one combination of therapies possible. Here we show how the selective Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cell killing of the here-established nanoplatforms increased after each coating and how the here-established vibration-inducing Alternating magnetic field (AMF) decreased the treatment time from 72 h to 30 s. Thanks to their magnetite core, these nanoplatforms can be guided to the tumor's specific site by a Fixed magnetic field, they bypass the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) and accumulate at the tumor site thanks to the RVG29 bonding to the G-protein on the ion-gated channel receptor known as the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAchR), which expresses on BBB cells and overexpresses on GBM cells, and thanks to the positive charge gained by both chitosan and RVG29's peptide. Both ZIF-8 and its mediate adherence, Chitosan increases the drug loading capacity that stimuli response to the tumor's acidic environment. The Zn2+ ions generated from ZIF-8 sustained degradation in such an environment kill the GBM cells. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) evaluated these nanoplatform's mean size 155 nm indicating their almost optimum size for brain applications. Based on their elements' intrinsic properties, these nanoplatforms can enhance and combine other adjuvant therapies.

A review of chitosan in gene therapy: Developments and challenges

Gene therapy, as a revolutionary treatment, has been gaining more and more attention. The key to gene therapy is the selection of suitable vectors for protection of exogenous nucleic acid molecules and enabling their specific release in target cells. While viral vectors have been widely used in researches, non-viral vectors are receiving more attention due to its advantages. Chitosan (CS) has been widely used as non-viral organic gene carrier because of its good biocompatibility and its ability to load large amounts of nucleic acids. This paper summarizes and evaluates the potential of chitosan and its derivatives as gene delivery vector materials, along with factors influencing transfection efficiency, performance evaluation, ways to optimize infectious efficiency, and the current main research development directions. Additionally, it provides an outlook on its future prospects.

Nattokinase Encapsulated Nanomedicine for Targeted Thrombolysis: Development, Improved in Vivo Thrombolytic Effects, and Ultrasound/Photoacoustic Imaging

Nattokinase (NK), a potent thrombolytic enzyme that dissolves blood clots, is highly used in the treatment of cardiovascular disorders. However, its effective delivery remains demanding because of stability and bioavailability problems owing to its high molecular weight and proteineous nature. In this research, we have developed novel NK-loaded nontargeted liposomes (NK-LS) and targeted liposomes (RGD-NK-LS and AM-NK-LS) by the reverse phase evaporation method. The physiochemical characterizations (particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and morphology) were performed by a Zetasizer, SEM, TEM, and AFM. The Bradford assay and XPS analysis confirmed the successful surface conjugation of the targeting ligands. Platelet interaction studies by CLSM, photon imager optima, and flow cytometry showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) platelet binding affinity of targeted liposomes. In vitro evaluations were performed using human blood and a fibrinolysis study by CLSM imaging demonstrating the potent antithrombotic efficacy of AM-NK-LS. Furthermore, bleeding and clotting time studies revealed that the targeted liposomes were free from any bleeding complications. Moreover, the in vivo FeCl3 model on Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats using a Doppler flow meter and ultrasound/photoacoustic imaging indicated the increased % thrombolysis and potent affinity of targeted liposomes toward the thrombus site. Additionally, in vitro hemocompatibility and histopathology studies demonstrated the safety and biocompatibility of the nanoformulations.

Multi-functional chitosan-based nanoparticles for drug delivery: Recent advanced insight into cancer therapy

Cancer therapy continues to be a major global concern, with conventional treatments suffering from low efficacy, untargeted drug delivery, and severe side effects. Recent research in nanomedicine suggests that nanoparticles' unique physicochemical properties can be leveraged to surmount the limitations of conventional cancer treatment. Chitosan-based nanoparticles have gained significant attention due to their high drug-carrying capacity, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, and long circulation time. Chitosan is utilized in cancer therapies as a carrier to accurately deliver active ingredients to tumor sites. This review focuses on clinical studies and current market offerings of anticancer drugs. The unique nature of tumor microenvironments presents new opportunities for the development of smart drug delivery systems, and this review explores the design and preparation of chitosan-based smart nanoparticles. Further, we discuss the therapeutic efficacies of these nanoparticles based on various in vitro and in vivo findings. Finally, we present a forward-looking perspective on the challenges and prospects of chitosan-based nanoparticles in cancer therapy, intending to provide fresh ideas for advancing cancer treatment strategies.

Controllable Fabrication of Highly Uniform Sub-10 nm Nanoparticles from Spontaneous Confined Nanoemulsification

Sub-10 nm nanoparticles are known to exhibit extraordinary size-dependent properties for wide applications. Many approaches have been developed for synthesizing sub-10 nm inorganic nanoparticles, but the fabrication of sub-10 nm polymeric nanoparticles is still challenging. Here, a scalable, spontaneous confined nanoemulsification strategy that produces uniform sub-10 nm nanodroplets for template synthesis of sub-10 nm polymeric nanoparticles is proposed. This strategy introduces a high-concentration interfacial reaction to create overpopulated surfactants that are insoluble at the droplet surface. These overpopulated surfactants act as barriers, resulting in highly accumulated surfactants inside the droplet via a confined reaction. These surfactants exhibit significantly changed packing geometry, solubility, and interfacial activity to enhance the molecular-level impact on interfacial instability for creating sub-10 nm nanoemulsions via self-burst nanoemulsification. Using the nanodroplets as templates, the fabrication of uniform sub-10 nm polymeric nanoparticles, as small as 3.5 nm, made from biocompatible polymers and capable of efficient drug encapsulation is demonstrated. This work opens up brand-new opportunities to easily create sub-10 nm nanoemulsions and advanced ultrasmall functional nanoparticles.

Chitosan-g-estrone Nanoparticles of Palbociclib Vanished Hypoxic Breast Tumor after Targeted Delivery: Development and Ultrasound/Photoacoustic Imaging

Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women globally. Approximately 80% of all breast cancers diagnosed are overexpressed with estrogen receptors (ERs). In this study, we have developed an estrone (Egen)-grafted chitosan-based polymeric nanocarrier for the targeted delivery of palbociclib (PLB) to breast cancer. The nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by solvent evaporation using the ionic gelation method and characterized for particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity, surface morphology, surface chemistry, drug entrapment efficiency, cytotoxicity assay, cellular uptake, and apoptosis study. The developed PLB-CS NPs and PLB-CS-g-Egen NPs had a particle size of 116.3 ± 1.53 nm and 141.6 ± 1.97 nm, respectively. The zeta potential of PLB-CS NPs and PLB-CS-g-Egen NPs was found to be 18.70 ± 0.416 mV and 12.45 ± 0.574 mV, respectively. The morphological analysis demonstrated that all NPs were spherical in shape and had a smooth surface. An in vitro cytotoxicity assay was performed in estrogen receptor (ER)-expressing MCF7 cells and T47D cells, which suggested that targeted NPs were 57.34- and 30.32-fold more cytotoxic compared to the pure PLB, respectively. Additionally, cell cycle analysis confirmed that cell cycle progression from the G1 into S phase was blocked more efficiently by targeted NPs compared to nontargeted NPs and PLB in MCF7 cells. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that entrapment of the PLB in the NPs improved the half-life and bioavailability by ∼2-3-fold. Further, ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging of DMBA induced breast cancer in the Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat showed that targeted NPs completely vanished breast tumor, reduced hypoxic tumor volume, and suppressed tumor angiogenesis more efficiently compared to the nontargeted NPs and free PLB. Further, in vitro hemocompatibility and histopathology studies suggested that NPs were biocompatible and safe for clinical use.

Targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling using XAV939 nanoparticles in tumor microenvironment-conditioned macrophages promote immunogenicity

The aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in tumor cells and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) promotes malignant transformation, metastasis, immune evasion, and resistance to cancer treatments. The increased Wnt ligand expression in TME activates β-catenin signaling in antigen (Ag)-presenting cells (APCs) and regulates anti-tumor immunity. Previously, we showed that activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in dendritic cells (DCs) promotes induction of regulatory T cell responses over anti-tumor CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ effector T cell responses and promotes tumor progression. In addition to DCs, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) also serve as APCs and regulate anti-tumor immunity. However, the role of β-catenin activation and its effect on TAM immunogenicity in TME is largely undefined. In this study, we investigated whether inhibiting β-catenin in TME-conditioned macrophages promotes immunogenicity. Using nanoparticle formulation of XAV939 (XAV-Np), a tankyrase inhibitor that promotes β-catenin degradation, we performed in vitro macrophage co-culture assays with melanoma cells (MC) or melanoma cell supernatants (MCS) to investigate the effect on macrophage immunogenicity. We show that XAV-Np-treatment of macrophages conditioned with MC or MCS significantly upregulates the cell surface expression of CD80 and CD86 and suppresses the expression of PD-L1 and CD206 compared to MC or MCS-conditioned macrophages treated with control nanoparticle (Con-Np). Further, XAV-Np-treated macrophages conditioned with MC or MCS significantly increased IL-6 and TNF-α production, with reduced IL-10 production compared to Con-Np-treated macrophages. Moreover, the co-culture of MC and XAV-Np-treated macrophages with T cells resulted in increased CD8⁺ T cell proliferation compared to Con-Np-treated macrophages. These data suggest that targeted β-catenin inhibition in TAMs represents a promising therapeutic approach to promote anti-tumor immunity.

Recent progress in nanomedicines for imaging and therapy of brain tumors

Nowadays, a malignant brain tumor is one of the most life-threatening diseases with poor prognosis, high risk of recurrence, and low survival rate for patients because of the existence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the lack of efficient diagnostic and therapeutic paradigms. So far, many researchers have devoted their efforts to innovating advanced drugs to efficiently cross the BBB and selectively target brain tumors for optimal imaging and therapy outcomes. Herein, we update the most recent developments in nanomedicines for the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors in preclinical mouse models. The special focus is on burgeoning drug delivery carriers to improve the specificity of visualization and to enhance the efficacy of brain tumor treatment. Also, we highlight the challenges and perspectives for the future development of brain tumor theranostics. This review is expected to receive wide attention from researchers, professors, and students in various fields to participate in future advancements in preclinical research and clinical translation of brain tumor nanomedicines.

Role of Nanomedicine-Based Therapeutics in the Treatment of CNS Disorders

Central nervous system disorders, especially neurodegenerative diseases, are a public health priority and demand a strong scientific response. Various therapy procedures have been used in the past, but their therapeutic value has been insufficient. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier is two of the barriers that protect the central nervous system (CNS), but are the main barriers to medicine delivery into the CNS for treating CNS disorders, such as brain tumors, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Huntington's disease. Nanotechnology-based medicinal approaches deliver valuable cargos targeting molecular and cellular processes with greater safety, efficacy, and specificity than traditional approaches. CNS diseases include a wide range of brain ailments connected to short- and long-term disability. They affect millions of people worldwide and are anticipated to become more common in the coming years. Nanotechnology-based brain therapy could solve the BBB problem. This review analyzes nanomedicine's role in medication delivery; immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and gene therapy are combined with nanomedicines to treat CNS disorders. We also evaluated nanotechnology-based approaches for CNS disease amelioration, with the intention of stimulating the immune system by delivering medications across the BBB.

GPIIb/IIIa Receptor Targeted Rutin Loaded Liposomes for Site-Specific Antithrombotic Effect

Rutin (RUT) is a flavonoid obtained from a natural source and is reported for antithrombotic potential, but its delivery remains challenging because of its poor solubility and bioavailability. In this research, we have fabricated novel rutin loaded liposomes (RUT-LIPO, nontargeted), liposomes conjugated with RGD peptide (RGD-RUT-LIPO, targeted), and abciximab (ABX-RUT-LIPO, targeted) by ethanol injection method. The particle size, ζ potential, and morphology of prepared liposomes were analyzed by using DLS, SEM, and TEM techniques. The conjugation of targeting moiety on the surface of targeted liposomes was confirmed by XPS analysis and Bradford assay. In vitro assessment such as blood clot assay, aPTT assay, PT assay, and platelet aggregation analysis was performed using human blood which showed the superior antithrombotic potential of ABX-RUT-LIPO and RGD-RUT-LIPO liposomes. The clot targeting efficiency was evaluated by in vitro imaging and confocal laser scanning microscopy. A significant (P < 0.05) rise in the affinity of targeted liposomes toward activated platelets was demonstrated that revealed their remarkable potential in inhibiting thrombus formation. Furthermore, an in vivo study executed on Sprague Dawley rats (FeCl₃ model) demonstrated improved antithrombotic activity of RGD-RUT-LIPO and ABX-RUT-LIPO compared with pure drug. The pharmacokinetic study performed on rats demonstrates the increase in bioavailability when administered as liposomal formulation as compared to RUT. Moreover, the tail bleeding assay and clotting time study (Swiss Albino mice) indicated a better antithrombotic efficacy of targeted liposomes than control preparations. Additionally, biocompatibility of liposomal formulations was determined by an in vitro hemolysis study and cytotoxicity assay, which showed that they were hemocompatible and safe for human use. A histopathology study on rats suggested no severe toxicity of prepared liposomal formulations. Thus, RUT encapsulated nontargeted and targeted liposomes exhibited superior antithrombotic potential over RUT and could be used as a promising carrier for future use.

Analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry: An update for 2017-2018

This review is the tenth update of the original article published in 1999 on the application of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI) mass spectrometry to the analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates and brings coverage of the literature to the end of 2018. Also included are papers that describe methods appropriate to glycan and glycoprotein analysis by MALDI, such as sample preparation techniques, even though the ionization method is not MALDI. Topics covered in the first part of the review include general aspects such as theory of the MALDI process, new methods, matrices, derivatization, MALDI imaging, fragmentation and the use of arrays. The second part of the review is devoted to applications to various structural types such as oligo- and poly-saccharides, glycoproteins, glycolipids, glycosides, and biopharmaceuticals. Most of the applications are presented in tabular form. The third part of the review covers medical and industrial applications of the technique, studies of enzyme reactions, and applications to chemical synthesis. The reported work shows increasing use of combined new techniques such as ion mobility and highlights the impact that MALDI imaging is having across a range of diciplines. MALDI is still an ideal technique for carbohydrate analysis and advancements in the technique and the range of applications continue steady progress.

TPGS Decorated Liposomes as Multifunctional Nano-Delivery Systems

Liposomes are sphere-shaped vesicles that can capture therapeutics either in the outer phospholipid bilayer or inner aqueous core. Liposomes, especially when surface-modified with functional materials, have been used to achieve many benefits in drug delivery, including improving drug solubility, oral bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and delivery to disease target sites such as cancers. Among the functional materials used to modify the surface of liposomes, the FDA-approved non-ionic surfactant D-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) is increasingly being applied due to its biocompatibility, lack of toxicity, applicability to various administration routes and ability to enhance solubilization, stability, penetration and overall pharmacokinetics. TPGS decorated liposomes are emerging as a promising drug delivery system for various diseases and are expected to enter the market in the coming years. In this review article, we focus on the multifunctional properties of TPGS-coated liposomes and their beneficial therapeutic applications, including for oral drug delivery, vaccine delivery, ocular administration, and the treatment of various cancers. We also suggest future directions to optimise the manufacture and performance of TPGS liposomes and, thus, the delivery and effect of encapsulated diagnostics and therapeutics.

Nanoparticles in Drug Delivery: From History to Therapeutic Applications

Current research into the role of engineered nanoparticles in drug delivery systems (DDSs) for medical purposes has developed numerous fascinating nanocarriers. This paper reviews the various conventionally used and current used carriage system to deliver drugs. Due to numerous drawbacks of conventional DDSs, nanocarriers have gained immense interest. Nanocarriers like polymeric nanoparticles, mesoporous nanoparticles, nanomaterials, carbon nanotubes, dendrimers, liposomes, metallic nanoparticles, nanomedicine, and engineered nanomaterials are used as carriage systems for targeted delivery at specific sites of affected areas in the body. Nanomedicine has rapidly grown to treat certain diseases like brain cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and many others. These nanomedicines can improve drug bioavailability and drug absorption time, reduce release time, eliminate drug aggregation, and enhance drug solubility in the blood. Nanomedicine has introduced a new era for drug carriage by refining the therapeutic directories of the energetic pharmaceutical elements engineered within nanoparticles. In this context, the vital information on engineered nanoparticles was reviewed and conferred towards the role in drug carriage systems to treat many ailments. All these nanocarriers were tested in vitro and in vivo. In the coming years, nanomedicines can improve human health more effectively by adding more advanced techniques into the drug delivery system.

New insight into brain disease therapy: nanomedicines-crossing blood-brain barrier and extracellular space for drug delivery

INTRODUCTION

Brain diseases including brain tumor, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, etc. are difficult to treat. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a major obstacle for drug delivery into the brain. Although nano-package and receptor-mediated delivery of nanomedicine markedly increases BBB penetration, it yet did not extensively improve clinical cure rate. Recently, brain extracellular space (ECS) and interstitial fluid (ISF) drainage in ECS have been found to determine whether a drug dissolved in ISF can reach its target cells. Notably, an increase in tortuosity of ECS associated with slower ISF drainage induced by the accumulated harmful substances, such as: amyloid-beta (Aβ), α-synuclein, and metabolic wastes, causes drug delivery failure.

AREAS COVERED

The methods of nano-package and receptor-mediated drug delivery and the penetration efficacy of nanomedicines across BBB and ECS are assessed.

EXPERT OPINION

Invasive delivering drug via ECS and noninvasive near-infrared photo-sensitive nanomedicines may provide a promising benefit to patients with brain disease.

Anticancer Nanotherapeutics in Clinical Trials: The Work behind Clinical Translation of Nanomedicine

The ultimate goal of nanomedicine has always been the generation of translational technologies that can ameliorate current therapies. Cancer disease represented the primary target of nanotechnology applied to medicine, since its clinical management is characterized by very toxic therapeutics. In this effort, nanomedicine showed the potential to improve the targeting of different drugs by improving their pharmacokinetics properties and to provide the means to generate new concept of treatments based on physical treatments and biologics. In this review, we considered different platforms that reached the clinical trial investigation, providing an objective analysis about their physical and chemical properties and the working mechanism at the basis of their tumoritr opic properties. With this review, we aim to help other scientists in the field in conceiving their delivering platforms for clinical translation by providing solid examples of technologies that eventually were tested and sometimes approved for human therapy.

The Fabrication of Docetaxel-Containing Emulsion for Drug Release Kinetics and Lipid Peroxidation

Docetaxel (DTX)-based formulation development is still confronted with significant challenges, due to its refractory solubility and side effects on normal tissues. Inspired by the application of the transdermal drug delivery model to topical treatment, we developed a biocompatible and slow-release DTX-containing emulsion via self-assembly prepared by a high-speed electric stirring method and optimized the formulation. The results of accelerated the emulsion stability experiment showed that the emulsion prepared at 10,000 rpm/min had a stability of 89.15 ± 2.05%. The ADME, skin irritation, skin toxicity and molecular interaction between DTX and excipients were predicted via Discovery Studio 2016 software. In addition, DTX addition in oil or water phases of the emulsion showed different release rates in vitro and ex vivo. The DTX release ex vivo of the DTX/O-containing emulsion and the DTX/W-containing emulsion were 45.07 ± 5.41% and 96.48 ± 4.54%, respectively. In vitro antioxidant assays and anti-lipid peroxidation models revealed the antioxidant potential of DTX. However, DTX-containing emulsions could maintain and even enhance the antioxidant effect, both scavenging free radicals in vitro and inhibiting the process of lipid peroxidation.

Efficient delivery of abciximab using mesoporous silica nanoparticles: In-vitro assessment for targeted and improved antithrombotic activity

Abciximab (ABX) is a chimeric monoclonal antibody reported for antithrombotic activity but their delivery remains challenging due to its poor stability in a biological system. The purpose of this research was to deliver ABX on the target efficiently using mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN). ABX coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN-ABX) were formulated and analyzed for particle size, shape, zeta-potential, surface morphology and surface chemistry. XPS analysis confirmed the presence of ABX on the surface of amino functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN-NH₂). The degree of ABX attachment was 67.53 ± 5.81 % which was demonstrated by the Bradford assay. Furthermore, the targeting efficiency of the targeted nanoparticles has been evaluated by capturing the fluorescent images in-vitro which showed the significant accumulation of the ABX coated nanoparticles towards activated platelets. The significant (P < 0.05) increase in affinity of DiD dye loaded nanoparticles towards the activated platelets was confirmed by using an in-vitro imaging through photon imager optima. The hemolysis study of the nanoparticle formulations revealed that they were non-hemolytic for healthy human blood. The in-vitro antithrombotic effects of MSN-ABX were observed by blood clot assay which revealed its superior antithrombotic activity over clinical injection of ABX and could be a promising carrier for improved ABX targeted delivery.

Luliconazole Nail Lacquer for the Treatment of Onychomycosis: Formulation, Characterization and In Vitro and Ex Vivo Evaluation

Onychomycosis is the most common fungal infection of the nail affecting the skin under the fingertips and the toes. Currently, available therapy for onychomycosis includes oral and topical therapies, either alone or in combination. Oral antifungal medication has been associated with poor drug bioavailability and potential gastrointestinal and systemic side effects. The objective of this study was to prepare and evaluate the luliconazole nail lacquer (LCZ-NL) for the effective treatment of onychomycosis. In the current work, LCZ-NL was formulated in combination with penetration enhancers to overcome poor penetration. A 3² full factorial formulation design of experiment (DOE) was applied for optimization of batches with consideration of dependent (drying time, viscosity, and rate of drug diffusion) and independent (solvent ratio and film former ratio) variables. The optimized formulation was selected based on drying time, viscosity, and rate of drug diffusion. The optimized formulation was further evaluated for % non-volatile content assay, smoothness of flow, water resistance, drug content, scanning electron microscope (SEM), atomic force microscope (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), in vitro drug release, ex vivo transungual permeation, antifungal efficacy, and stability study. The optimized LCZ-NL contained 70:30 solvent ratio and 1:1 film former ratio and was found to have ~ 1.79-fold higher rate of drug diffusion in comparison with LULY™. DSC and XRD studies confirmed that luliconazole retains its crystalline property in the prepared formulation. Antifungal study against Trichophyton spp. showed that LCZ-NL has comparatively higher growth inhibition than LULY™. Hence, developed LCZ-NL can be a promising topical drug delivery system for treating onychomycosis.

Dual Vinorelbine bitartrate and Resveratrol Loaded Polymeric Aqueous core Nanocapsules for Synergistic Efficacy in Breast Cancer

AIM

The current study focused on the development and evaluation of aqueous core nanocapsules (ACNs) as an effective carrier to deliver an optimal synergistic combination of a highly water soluble Vinorelbine bitartrate (VRL) and a poorly water-soluble Resveratrol (RES) for treatment of breast cancer.

METHODS

Various molar ratios of VRL to RES were screened against MCF-7 cell lines to determine the synergistic effects using Chou-Talalay method. Synergistic ratio of therapeutic agents was then incorporated into aqueous core nanocapsules utilizing a double emulsion solvent evaporation technique to yield dual drug loaded nanocapsules (dd-ACNs). The dd-ACNs were optimized using Box-Behnken design and characterized for physicochemical parameters such as particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, total drug content and encapsulation efficiency, surface morphology, drug excipient compatibility by FTIR and DSC, release kinetics, toxicity studies and anticancer efficacy (in-vitro and in-vivo).

RESULTS

Results demonstrated that the combination exhibited maximum synergy when higher doses of VRL were combined with smaller doses of RES (1:1, 5:1, and 10:1). The dual drug loaded ACNs were found to be stable and depicted a core-shell structure, narrow size range (150.2 ± 3.2 nm) with enhanced encapsulation (80% for VRL and 99% for RES). Moreover, the dd-ACNs were 5 times more efficacious in-vitro than a combination of free drugs, while reducing systemic toxicity. Also, pre-clinical evaluation of dd-ACNs also depicted drastic reduction of tumor volume as compared tp pristine VRL and physical combination of drugs.

CONCLUSION

The developed dd-ACNs can be applied as potential carrier for delivery of combination of chemotherapeutics at a synergistic ratio at tumor site.

Appraisal of anti-gout potential of colchicine-loaded chitosan nanoparticle gel in uric acid-induced gout animal model

Present study is aimed at transdermal delivery of colchicine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles. The nanoformulations were prepared utilising spontaneous emulsification method and optimised through 2³ factorial designs. The optimised formulation (CHNP-OPT) displayed an average particle size of 294 ± 3.75 nm, entrapment efficiency 92.89 ± 1.1% and drug content 83.45 ± 2.5%, respectively. In vitro release study demonstrated 89.34 ± 2.90% release over a period of 24 h. Further, CHNP-OPT incorporated into HPMC-E4M (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) to form transdermal gel. CHNP_gel displayed 74.65 ± 1.90% permeation and stability over a period of 90 days. The anti-gout potential of CHNP_gel formulation was evaluated in vivo against monosodium urate (MSU) crystal-induced gout in animal model. There was significant reduction in uric acid level, during MSU administration, when compared with the conventional gel of colchicine. The enhanced therapeutic potential was witnessed through X-ray. The study revealed that colchicine-loaded CHNP_gel proved their supremacy over plain colchicine and can be an efficient delivery system for gout treatment.

Recent Progress in Nanostructured Smart Drug Delivery Systems for Cancer Therapy: A Review

Traditional treatment approaches for cancer involve intravenous chemotherapy or other forms of drug delivery. These therapeutic measures suffer from several limitations such as nonspecific targeting, poor biodistribution, and buildup of drug resistances. However, significant technological advancements have been made in terms of superior modes of drug delivery over the last few decades. Technical capability in analyzing the molecular mechanisms of tumor biology, nanotechnology─particularly the development of biocompatible nanoparticles, surface modification techniques, microelectronics, and material sciences─has increased. As a result, a significant number of nanostructured carriers that can deliver drugs to specific cancerous sites with high efficiency have been developed. This particular maneuver that enables the introduction of a therapeutic nanostructured substance in the body by controlling the rate, time, and place is defined as the nanostructured drug delivery system (NDDS). Because of their versatility and ability to incorporate features such as specific targeting, water solubility, stability, biocompatibility, degradability, and ability to reverse drug resistance, they have attracted the interest of the scientific community, in general, and nanotechnologists as well as biomedical scientists. To keep pace with the rapid advancement of nanotechnology, specific technical aspects of the recent NDDSs and their prospects need to be reported coherently. To address these ongoing issues, this review article provides an overview of different NDDSs such as lipids, polymers, and inorganic nanoparticles. In addition, this review also reports the challenges of current NDDSs and points out the prospective research directions of these nanocarriers. From our focused review, we conclude that still now the most advanced and potent field of application for NDDSs is lipid-based, while other significantly potential fields include polymer-based and inorganic NDDSs. However, despite the promises, challenges remain in practical implementations of such NDDSs in terms of dosage and stability, and caution should be exercised regarding biocompatibility of materials. Considering these aspects objectively, this review on NDDSs will be particularly of interest for small-to-large scale industrial researchers and academicians with expertise in drug delivery, cancer research, and nanotechnology.

Transferrin Receptor-Targeted Nanocarriers: Overcoming Barriers to Treat Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and lethal type of brain tumor, and the clinically available approaches for its treatment are not curative. Despite the intensive research, biological barriers such as the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and tumor cell membranes are major obstacles to developing novel effective therapies. Nanoparticles (NPs) have been explored as drug delivery systems (DDS) to improve GBM therapeutic strategies. NPs can circumvent many of the biological barriers posed by this devastating disease, enhancing drug accumulation in the target site. This can be achieved by employing strategies to target the transferrin receptor (TfR), which is heavily distributed in BBB and GBM cells. These targeting strategies comprise the modification of NPs’ surface with various molecules, such as transferrin (Tf), antibodies, and targeting peptides. This review provides an overview and discussion on the recent advances concerning the strategies to target the TfR in the treatment of GBM, as their benefits and limitations.

Bioadhesive chitosan nanoparticles: Dual targeting and pharmacokinetic aspects for advanced lung cancer treatment

The chitosan-folate conjugate was synthesized initially and confirmed by FTIR and NMR spectroscopic studies. Following, docetaxel (DXL) loaded non-targeted, single receptor and dual receptor (folate and EGFR) targeted chitosan nanoparticles were prepared and their shape, particle size, zeta-potential, surface morphology and texture were screened by SEM, TEM, AFM analyses. Surface chemistry analysis by XPS indeed confirmed the successful conjugation of folate and cetuximab on the targeted formulations. In-vitro analysis of dual-targeted chitosan nanoparticles has revealed their superior cytotoxicity against A-549 cells. The IC₅₀ of dual receptor-targeted chitosan NP was almost 34 times lower than DXL control. In-vivo pharmacokinetic study on Wistar rats has demonstrated improved relative bioavailability of all NP in comparison to DXL control. The results illustrated that EGFR and folate dual targeted NP enhanced the cytotoxicity of DXL towards A-549 lung cancer cells and substantially improved DXL pharmacokinetics in rats.

Polymeric magnetic nanoparticles: a multitargeting approach for brain tumour therapy and imaging

The most challenging task in targeting the brain is trespassing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) which restricts the movement of about 98% small molecules. Targeting the central nervous system using magnetic nanoparticles may deliver the drug to the target site along with a contrast imaging property. The use of magnetic nanoparticles can become non-invasive drug targeting and a bio-imaging method for brain cancer. The strategy to apply polymeric nanoparticles as a carrier of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles can be a promising tool as a multitherapeutic drug delivery approach involving delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs with a magnetic targeting approach, imaging, and hyperthermia. This review will highlight the existing difficulties/barriers in crossing the BBB, types of magnetic materials, polymeric carriers for functionalization of magnetic nanoparticles, and targeting strategies as therapeutic and imaging modalities. Utilization of polymeric magnetic nanoparticles as an efficient targeting platform for better drug delivery and imaging for brain cancer and future prospects are also discussed. Polymeric magnetic nanoparticles as a drug delivery and bio-imaging vehicle for brain cancer.

Hybrid lipid core chitosan-TPGS shell nanocomposites as a promising integrated nanoplatform for enhanced oral delivery of sulpiride in depressive disorder therapy

Sulpiride (SUL), a benzamide derivative, acts as a multitarget drug with extensive biological properties. However, being a P-glycoprotein efflux substrate with a limited oral bioavailability imposes a challenge to its clinical efficacy. The current research explores the impact of tailored hybrid lipid-polysaccharide nanocomposites in augmenting the biological performance of SUL. Chitosan-graft-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) copolymers were synthesized and integrated as a polysaccharide shell into a SUL-loaded lipid nanocore. The optimized nanohybrids revealed a nanocore-shell structure with 110.1 nm particle size, 23.7 mV zeta potential, 85.42% encapsulation efficiency, a pH-dependent-release profile, and an acceptable mucoadhesive tendency. Employing TPGS into the chitosan backbone alleviated the cellular internalization of nanohybrids into the Caco-2 intestinal cells and hence increased the intestinal permeation and the oral bioavailability of SUL by 3.3, and 8.7-folds, respectively. Reserpine-induced depression rat model confirmed the superior antidepressant activity of nanohybrids, compared with free SUL and a marketed product. The nanohybrids exhibited 1.87- and 1.47-folds enhancement in both serotonin and dopamine levels, respectively. Additionally, nanohybrids were shown to attenuate brain oxidative stress state and SUL irritant effect on different body tissues. Overall, the newly tailored nanohybrids pave the way for an advance in the field of oral drug delivery.

Citrate-Coated Magnetic Polyethyleneimine Composites for Plasmid DNA Delivery into Glioblastoma

Several ternary composites that are based on branched polyethyleneimine (bPEI 25 kDa, polydispersity 2.5, 0.1 or 0.2 ng), citrate-coated ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (citrate-NPs, 8-10 nm, 0.1, 1.0, or 2.5 µg), and reporter circular plasmid DNA pEGFP-C1 or pRL-CMV (pDNA 0.5 µg) were studied for optimization of the best composite for transfection into glioblastoma U87MG or U138MG cells. The efficiency in terms of citrate-NP and plasmid DNA gene delivery with the ternary composites could be altered by tuning the bPEI/citrate-NP ratios in the polymer composites, which were characterized by Prussian blue staining, in vitro magnetic resonance imaging as well as green fluorescence protein and luciferase expression. Among the composites prepared, 0.2 ng bPEI/0.5 μg pDNA/1.0 µg citrate-NP ternary composite possessed the best cellular uptake efficiency. Composite comprising 0.1 ng bPEI/0.5 μg pDNA/0.1 μg citrate-NP gave the optimal efficiency for the cellular uptake of the two plasmid DNAs to the nucleus. The best working bPEI concentration range should not exceed 0.2 ng/well to achieve a relatively low cytotoxicity.

Recent Advances in Chemical Biology of Mitochondria Targeting

Mitochondria are vital subcellular organelles that generate most cellular chemical energy, regulate cell metabolism and maintain cell function. Mitochondrial dysfunction is directly linked to numerous diseases including neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, thyroid squamous disease, cancer and septicemia. Thus, the design of specific mitochondria-targeting molecules and the realization of real-time acquisition of mitochondrial activity are powerful tools in the study and treatment of mitochondria dysfunction in related diseases. Recent advances in mitochondria-targeting agents have led to several important mitochondria chemical probes that offer the opportunity for selective targeting molecules, novel biological applications and therapeutic strategies. This review details the structural and physiological functional characteristics of mitochondria, and comprehensively summarizes and classifies mitochondria-targeting agents. In addition, their pros and cons and their related chemical biological applications are discussed. Finally, the potential biomedical applications of these agents are briefly prospected.

Green nanomedicine: the path to the next generation of nanomaterials for diagnosing brain tumors and therapeutics?

Introduction: Current brain cancer treatments, based on radiotherapy and chemotherapy, are sometimes successful, but they are not free of drawbacks.Areas covered: Traditional methods for the treatment of brain tumors are discussed here with new solutions presented, among which the application of nanotechnology has demonstrated promising results over the past decade. The traditional synthesis of nanostructures, which relies on the use of physicochemical methodologies are discussed, and their associated concerns in terms of environmental and health impact due to the production of toxic by-products, need for toxic catalysts, and their lack of biocompatibility are presented. An overview of the current situation for treating brain tumors using nanotechnological-based approaches is introduced, and some of the latest advances in the application of green nanomaterials (NMs) for the effective targeting of brain tumors are presented.Expert opinion: Green nanotechnology is introduced as a potential solution to toxic NMs through the application of environmentally friendly and cost-effective protocols using living organisms and biomolecules. The current status of this field, such as those involving clinical trials, is included, and the possible limitations of green-NMs and potential ways to avoid those limitations are discussed so that the field can potentially evolve.

Docetaxel in chitosan-based nanocapsules conjugated with an anti-Tn antigen mouse/human chimeric antibody as a promising targeting strategy of lung tumors

The aim of this work was to evaluate the physicochemical and biological properties of docetaxel (DCX) loaded chitosan nanocapsules (CS Nc) functionalized with the monoclonal antibody Chi-Tn (CS-PEG-ChiTn mAb Nc) as a potential improvement treatment for cancer therapy. The Tn antigen is highly specific for carcinomas, and this is the first time that such structure is targeted for drug delivery. The nanocapsules (Ncs), formed as a polymeric shell around an oily core, allowed a 99.9% encapsulation efficiency of DCX with a monodispersity particle size in the range of 200 nm and a high positive surface charge that provide substantial stability to the nanosystems. Release profile of DCX from Ncs showed a sustained and pH dependent behavior with a faster release at acidic pH, which could be favorable in the intracellular drug delivery. We have designed PEGylated CS Nc modified with a monoclonal antibody which recognize Tn antigen, one of the most specific tumor associated antigen. A biotin-avidin approach achieved the successful attachment of the antibody to the nanocapsules. Uptake studies and viability assay conducted in A549 human lung cancer cell line in vitro demonstrate that ChiTn mAb enhance nanoparticles internalization and cell viability reduction. Consequently, these ChiTn functionalized nanocapsules are promising carriers for the active targeting of DCX to Tn expressing carcinomas.

Specific modification and self-transport of porphyrins and their multi-mechanism cooperative antitumor studies

In order to reduce the toxicity and side effects of anti-tumor drugs and improve their therapeutic effect against cancer, photodynamic and chemical combination therapy has been exploited. However, the complicated preparation and metabolic toxicity of photosensitizer-loaded materials remain major obstacles for bioapplications. In this study, we designed and prepared a specific photosensitizer self-transporting drug-delivery system. First, 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-aminophenyl)-21H,23H-porphine (TAPP) was modified using specific molecules of d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) with a certain antitumor effect, to prepare a specific fluorescent amphiphilic system (TAPP-TPGS). Then, the drug-loaded fluorescence nanomicelle (TAPP-TPGS/PTX) was formed via self-assembly using the amphiphilic system and the anticancer drug paclitaxel (PTX). The carrier material could be used as a drug tracer and cancer therapy reagent to synergistically trace the chemotherapy drug and treat cancers. The biocompatibility and the enhanced antitumor effect of TAPP-TPGS/PTX were confirmed by in vitro and in vivo experiments. To detect the synergistic anticancer effect enhanced by TPGS, TAPP-mPEG synthesized with a similar method as TAPP-TPGS was used for a comparative analysis. The results showed that the excellent synergistic anticancer effect of the TAPP-TPGS/PTX was enhanced due to the introduction of TPGS. Thus, the specific porphyrin self-transporting nanomicelle is a very promising carrier material for applications in biomedicine.

Docetaxel-loaded folate-modified TPGS-transfersomes for glioblastoma multiforme treatment

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a first primary Central Nervous System tumor with high incidence and lethality. Its treatment is hampered by the difficulty to overcome the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and by the non-specificity of chemotherapeutics to tumor cells. This study was based on the development characterization and in vitro efficacy of folate-modified TPGS transfersomes containing docetaxel (TF-DTX-FA) to improve GBM treatment. TF-DTX-FA and unmodified transfersomes (TF-DTX) were prepared through thin-film hydration followed by extrusion technique and characterized by physicochemical and in vitro studies. All formulations showed low particles sizes (below 200 nm), polydispersity index below 0.2, negative zeta potential (between -16.75 to -12.45 mV) and high encapsulation efficiency (78.72 ± 1.29% and 75.62 ± 0.05% for TF-DTX and TF-DTX-FA, respectively). Furthermore, cytotoxicity assay of TF-DTX-FA showed the high capacity of the nanocarriers to reduce the viability of U-87 MG in both 2D and 3D culture models, when compared with DTX commercial formulation and TF-DTX. In vitro cellular uptake assay indicated the selectivity of transfersomes to tumoral cells when compared to normal cells, and the higher ability of TF-DTX-FA to be internalized into 2D U-87 MG in comparison with TF-DTX (72.10 and 62.90%, respectively, after 24 h). Moreover, TF-DTX-FA showed higher permeability into 3D U-87 MG spheroid than TF-DTX, suggesting the potential FA modulation to target treatment of GBM.

Glycosylated Nanoparticles for Cancer-Targeted Drug Delivery

Nanoparticles (NPs) are novel platforms that can carry both cancer-targeting molecules and drugs to avoid severe side effects due to nonspecific drug delivery in standard chemotherapy treatments. Cancer cells are characterized by abnormal membranes, metabolic changes, the presence of lectin receptors, glucose transporters (GLUT) overexpression, and glycosylation of immune receptors of programmed death on cell surfaces. These characteristics have led to the development of several strategies for cancer therapy, including a large number of carbohydrate-modified NPs, which have become desirable for use in cell-selective drug delivery systems because they increase nanoparticle-cell interactions and uptake of carried drugs. Currently, the potential of NP glycosylation to enhance the safety and efficacy of carried therapeutic antitumor agents has been widely acknowledged, and much information is accumulating in this field. This review seeks to highlight recent advances in NP stabilization, toxicity reduction, and pharmacokinetic improvement and the promising potential of NP glycosylation from the perspective of molecular mechanisms described for drug delivery systems for cancer therapy. From preclinical proof-of-concept to demonstration of therapeutic value in the clinic, the challenges and opportunities presented by glycosylated NPs, with a focus on their applicability in the development of nanodrugs, are discussed in this review.

Mannose receptor targeted bioadhesive chitosan nanoparticles of clofazimine for effective therapy of tuberculosis

Drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) is one of the most lethal diseases, and it is imperative to exploit an advanced drug formulation for its effective treatment. This work aims to develop a mannose receptor-targeted bioadhesive chitosan nanoparticles for effective drug-resistant tuberculosis treatment. The clofazimine loaded chitosan nanoparticles were formulated; their size, charge, polydispersity (PDI), surface morphology, entrapment efficiency (EE) and in-vitro release pattern were established. Also, cellular uptake study on C2C12 cell lines and anti-mycobacterial activity against H37Rv (a standard strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis) were evaluated. The particle sizes of formulated chitosan nanoparticles were in the range of 132–184 nm and EE was also found to be between 73 and 95%. The functionalization of bioadhesive chitosan nanoparticles with mannose was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The uptake studies on the C2C12 cell lines showed that mannosylated nanoparticles were more efficiently internalized when compared to non-targeted nanoparticles. Further, luciferase reporter phage (LRP) assay against H37Rv strain showed that clofazimine nanoparticles were found to be 49.5 times superior in terms of inhibition and anti-mycobacterial activity than free clofazimine. This excellent activity might be attributed to enhanced drug delivery with a promising bioadhesion property of chitosan-based nanoparticles.

Gold liposomes for brain-targeted drug delivery: Formulation and brain distribution kinetics

This work was aimed to formulate transferrin (Tf) receptor targeted gold based theranostic liposomes which contain both docetaxel (DCX) and glutathione reduced gold nanoparticles (AuGSH) for brain-targeted drug delivery and imaging. AuGSH was prepared by reducing chloroauric acid salt using glutathione. The co-loading of DCX and AuGSH into liposomes was achieved by the solvent injection technique, and Tf was post-conjugated on the surface of the liposomes using carboxylated Vit-E TPGS (TPGS-COOH) as a linker. The liposomes were characterized for various parameters such as size, shape, surface charge, and drug release. The Tf receptor targeted gold liposomes were evaluated for the cytotoxicity by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) based colorimetric assay and in-vitro qualitative cellular uptake studies using confocal microscopy. The in-vivo site specific delivery of DCX was analyzed by the brain distribution study of DCX in comparison with marketed formulation (Docel™). A sustained drug release of about 70% was observed from liposomes in the span of 72 h. The in-vivo results demonstrated that targeted gold liposomes were able to deliver DCX into the brain by 3.70, 2.74 and 4.08-folds higher than Docel™ after 30, 120 and 240 min of the treatment, respectively. Besides, the results of these studies have suggested the feasibility of Tf decorated AuGSH and DCX co-loaded liposomes as a promising platform for targeted nano-theranostics.

Formulation and in vivo efficacy study of cetuximab decorated targeted bioadhesive nanomedicine for non-small-cell lung cancer therapy

Aim: To design, optimize and evaluate docetaxel-loaded chitosan nanoparticles with (targeted) and without (nontargeted) cetuximab conjugation for the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Materials & methods: Risk-assessment, optimization, in vitro characterizations, stability assessments, release studies, cell-culture studies were performed along with histopathology, pharmacokinetic and anticancer efficacy studies. Results: The nanoparticles of desired particle size (152.59 ± 3.90 nm to 180.63 ± 5.21 nm) which could sustain drug release for up to 70 h, were obtained. The cell-culture studies demonstrated the superiority of the formulations over Docel™. The pharmacokinetic evaluation showed the excellent systemic bioavailability of prepared NPs. The histopathology screening revealed lesser toxicity of both the nontargeted and targeted formulations. The targeted nanoformulation significantly reduced tumor growth than the nontargeted formulation and Docel. Conclusion: These results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of the prepared nanoformulation. After proper clinical validation, it could be a promising approach for the treatment of NSCLC.

Biscoumarin-pyrimidine conjugates as potent anticancer agents and binding mechanism of hit candidate with human serum albumin

In our continuing efforts to develop therapeutically active coumarin-based compounds, a series of new C4-C4' biscoumarin-pyrimidine conjugates (1a-l) was synthesized via S_N 2 reaction of substituted 4-bromomethyl coumarin with thymine. All compounds were characterized using spectroscopic techniques, that is, attenuated total reflection infrared (ATR-IR), CHN elemental analysis, and ¹ H and ¹³ C NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance). In addition, the structure of compound 1d (1,3-bis[(7-chloro-2-oxo-2H-chromen-4-yl)methyl]-5-methylpyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione) was established through X-ray crystallography. Compounds 1a-l were screened for in vitro anticancer activity against C6 rat glioma cells. Among the screened compounds, 1,3-bis[(6-chloro-2-oxo-2H-chromen-4-yl)methyl]-5-methylpyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione (1c) was identified as the best antiproliferative candidate, exhibiting an IC₅₀ value of 4.85 μM. All the compounds (1a-l) were found to be nontoxic toward healthy human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293), indicating their selective nature. In addition, the most active compound (1c) displayed strong binding interactions with the drug carrier protein, human serum albumin, and exhibited good solution stability at biological pH conditions. Fluorescence, UV-visible spectrophotometry and molecular modeling methodologies were employed for studying the interaction mechanism of compound 1c with protein.

Chitosan-Based Non-viral Gene and Drug Delivery Systems for Brain Cancer

Central nervous system (CNS) tumors are a leading source of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Today, different strategies have been developed to allow targeted and controlled drug delivery into the brain. Gene therapy is a system based on the modification of patient's cells through the introduction of genetic material to exert a specific action. Administration of the foreign genetic material can be done through viral-mediated delivery or non-viral delivery via physical or mechanical systems. For brain cancer specifically, gene therapy can overcome the actual challenge of blood brain barrier penetration, the main reason for therapeutic failure. Chitosan (CS), a natural based biodegradable polymer obtained from the exoskeleton of crustaceans such as crab, shrimp, and lobster, has been used as a delivery vehicle in several non-viral modification strategies. This cationic polysaccharide is highly suitable for gene delivery mainly due to its chemical properties, its non-toxic nature, its capacity to protect nucleic acids through the formation of complexes with the genetic material, and its ease of degradation in organic environments. Recent evidence supports the use of CS as an alternative gene delivery system for cancer treatment. This review will describe multiple studies highlighting the advantages and challenges of CS-based delivery structures for the treatment of brain tumors. Furthermore, this review will provide insight on the translational potential of various CS based-strategies in current clinical cancer studies. Specifically, CS-based nanostructures including nanocapsules, nanospheres, solid-gel formulations, and nanoemulsions, also microshperes and micelles will be evaluated.

EGFR Targeted Paclitaxel and Piperine Co-loaded Liposomes for the Treatment of Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast (TNBC) cancer that is upregulated with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and devoid of both the hormonal receptors and epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER 2), has led to a concept of treating TNBC with EGFR-targeted therapeutics. The combination of paclitaxel (PTX) and piperine (PIP) may improve the bioavailability of paclitaxel for cancer therapy. TPGS (vit E-PEG 1000-succinate)-coated liposomes were prepared with PTX alone or in combination with PIP, and either with (targeted) or without (non-targeted) cetuximab (CTX) conjugation. The Bradford assay indicated that 75% of CTX has been conjugated on the liposomes. The size and percent encapsulation of PTX&PIP co-loaded liposomes were found to be in the range of 204 to 218 nm and 31-73%, respectively. The drug release rate was found to be higher at pH 5.5 in comparison with release at pH 6.4 and pH 7.4. Cellular uptake and toxicity studies on MDA-MB-231 cells showed that PTX&PIP co-loaded targeted liposomes have demonstrated superior uptake and cytotoxicity than their non-targeted counterparts. The IC₅₀ values of both of the liposomal formulations were found to be significantly higher than PTX control. Indeed, combining PIP with PTX control has improved the cytotoxicity of PTX control, which proved the synergistic anticancer effect of PIP. Lyophilized liposomes showed an excellent stability profile with the size range between 189 and 210 nm. Plasma stability study revealed a slight increase in the particle size due to the adsorption of plasma proteins on the surface of liposomes. The long-term stability study also indicated that liposomes were stable at 4°C.

DNA biodots based targeted theranostic nanomedicine for the imaging and treatment of non-small cell lung cancer

The light absorption and emission characteristics of DNA biodots (DNA-BD), along with biocompatibility, give them a high potential for use in various medical applications, particularly in diagnostic purpose. DNA, under high pressure and temperature, condenses to form luminescent biodots. The objective of this research is to develop DNA-biodots (BD) loaded and cetuximab conjugated targeted theranostic liposomes of etoposide for lung cancer imaging and therapy. Theranostic liposomes were prepared by using the solvent injection method and characterized for their particle size, polydispersity, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and pH-dependent in-vitro release, SEM, TEM AFM, EDX, and XRD. The t₅₀% (time at which 50% of the drug releases from the preparation) of the formulations was pH-dependent, with a significant increase in the release at lower pH (5.5). To kill A549 adenocarcinoma cells, the etoposide (control) required significantly (p < 0.05) higher drug concentrations in comparison to non-targeted and; the non-targeted formulation required more concentrations in comparison to targeted liposomes. The in-vivo results demonstrated that CTX-TPGS decorated theranostic liposomes could be a promising carrier for lung theranostics due to their nano-size and selectivity towards EGFR overexpressed cells which provided an improved NSCLC targeted delivery of ETP in comparison to the non-targeted and control formulations.

Multifunctional Polymeric Nanoplatforms for Brain Diseases Diagnosis, Therapy and Theranostics

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) acts as a barrier to prevent the central nervous system (CNS) from damage by substances that originate from the blood circulation. The BBB limits drug penetration into the brain and is one of the major clinical obstacles to the treatment of CNS diseases. Nanotechnology-based delivery systems have been tested for overcoming this barrier and releasing related drugs into the brain matrix. In this review, nanoparticles (NPs) from simple to developed delivery systems are discussed for the delivery of a drug to the brain. This review particularly focuses on polymeric nanomaterials that have been used for CNS treatment. Polymeric NPs such as polylactide (PLA), poly (D, L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL), poly (alkyl cyanoacrylate) (PACA), human serum albumin (HSA), gelatin, and chitosan are discussed in detail.

Multifunctional Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)-Poly (Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid) (PLGA)-Based Nanoparticles Loading Doxorubicin and Tetrahydrocurcumin for Combined Chemoradiotherapy of Glioma

Background

This study aimed to prepare doxorubicin- and tetrahydrocurcumin-loaded and transferrin-modified PEG-PLGA nanoparticles (Tf-NPs-DOX-THC) for enhanced and synergistic chemoradiotherapy.

Material/Methods

Tf-NPs-DOX-THC were prepared via the double-emulsion method. The morphologies and particle sizes of the prepared nanoparticles were examined by TEM and DLS, respectively. The in vitro MTT, apoptosis, and clone formation assays were performed to detect the proliferation and radiosensitivity of cells with various treatments. Cellular uptake assay was also conducted. The tissue distribution of Tf-NPs was investigated by ex vivo DOX fluorescence imaging. The in vivo tumor growth inhibition efficiency of various treatments was evaluated in orthotopic C6 mouse models and C6 subcutaneously grafted mouse models.

Results

Tf-NPs-DOX-THC exhibited high drug-loading efficiency (6.56±0.32%) and desirable particle size (under 250 nm). MTT, apoptosis, and clone formation assays revealed the enhanced anti-cancer activity and favorable radiosensitizing effect of Tf-NPs-DOX-THC. Strong fluorescence was observed in the brains of mice treated with Tf-NPs-DOX. The in vitro release of drug from nanoparticles was in a pH-sensitive manner. Tf-NPs-DOX-THC in combination with radiation also achieved favorable anti-tumor efficacy in vivo.

Conclusions

All results suggest that a combination of Tf-NPs-DOX-THC and radiation is a promising strategy for synergistic and sensitizing chemoradiotherapy of glioma.

Theranostic Nanomedicine for Malignant Gliomas

Brain tumors mainly originate from glial cells and are classified as gliomas. Malignant gliomas represent an incurable disease; indeed, after surgery and chemotherapy, recurrence appears within a few months, and mortality has remained high in the last decades. This is mainly due to the heterogeneity of malignant gliomas, indicating that a single therapy is not effective for all patients. In this regard, the advent of theranostic nanomedicine, a combination of imaging and therapeutic agents, represents a strategic tool for the management of malignant brain tumors, allowing for the detection of therapies that are specific to the single patient and avoiding overdosing the non-responders. Here, recent theranostic nanomedicine approaches for glioma therapy are described.