The albumin-based nanoparticle formation in relation to protein aggregation

Dissimilar effects of the hydrophilic carbon dots on the amyloid aggregation of two model proteins and the mechanism discussion

Many proteins could aggregate into amyloid fibrils under certain conditions. However, the aggregation process and morphology of the fibrils may be significantly different because of the distinct protein structure. In this article, the hydrophilic carbon dots (Lys-CA-CDs) were prepared using lysine (Lys) and citric acid (CA) as reactant under the assistance of a microwave. The dissimilar modulation effect of Lys-CA-CDs on the aggregation process of distinct structure protein was further investigated, where bovine serum albumin (BSA) and hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) were chosen as model proteins. All results showed that Lys-CA-CDs displayed the contrary influence on the aggregation process of BSA and HEWL. Lys-CA-CDs could induce BSA to aggregate into more wormlike fibrils and inhibit the aggregation of HEWL into hair-like fibrils. The influence on the aggregation process of BSA may be assigned to the increased concentration of BSA around the Lys-CA-CDs caused by their interaction. However, inserting of Lys-CA-CDs into the inner structure of HEWL led to the change of protein secondary structure. The change of secondary structure further made it difficult for HEWL to aggregate into fibrils and Lys-CA-CDs showed the inhibition effect on HEWL aggregation.

Magnetically navigated microbubbles coated with albumin/polyarginine and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles

While microbubbles (MB) are routinely used for ultrasound (US) imaging, magnetic MB are increasingly explored as they can be guided to specific sites of interest by applied magnetic field gradient. This requires the MB shell composition tuning to prolong MB stability and provide functionalization capabilities with magnetic nanoparticles. Hence, we developed air-filled MB stabilized by a protein-polymer complex of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and poly-L-arginine (pArg) of different molecular weights, showing that pArg of moderate molecular weight distribution (15-70 kDa) enabled MB with greater stability and acoustic response while preserving MB narrow diameters and the relative viability of THP-1 cells after 48 h of incubation. After MB functionalization with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION), magnetic moment values provided by single MB confirmed the sufficient SPION deposition onto BSA + pArg MB shells. During MB magnetic navigation in a blood vessel mimicking phantom with magnetic tweezers and in a Petri dish with adherent mouse renal carcinoma cell line, we demonstrated the effectiveness of magnetic MB localization in the desired area by magnetic field gradient. Magnetic MB co-localization with cells was further exploited for effective doxorubicin delivery with drug-loaded MB. Taken together, these findings open new avenues in control over albumin MB properties and magnetic navigation of SPION-loaded MB, which can envisage their applications in diagnostic and therapeutic needs.

Recent advancements in nanotechnology based drug delivery for the management of cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) constitute a predominant cause of both global mortality and morbidity. To address the challenges in the early diagnosis and management of CVDs, there is growing interest in the field of nanotechnology and nanomaterials to develop innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This review focuses on the recent advancements in nanotechnology-based diagnostic techniques, including cardiac immunoassays (CIA), cardiac circulating biomarkers, cardiac exosomal biomarkers, and molecular Imaging (MOI). Moreover, the article delves into the exciting developments in nanoparticles (NPs), biomimetic NPs, nanofibers, nanogels, and nanopatchs for cardiovascular applications. And discuss how these nanoscale technologies can improve the precision, sensitivity, and speed of CVD diagnosis and management. While highlighting their vast potential, we also address the limitations and challenges that must be overcome to harness these innovations successfully. Furthermore, this review focuses on the emerging opportunities for personalized and effective cardiovascular care through the integration of nanotechnology, ultimately aiming to reduce the global burden of CVDs.

Translational Challenges and Prospective Solutions in the Implementation of Biomimetic Delivery Systems

Biomimetic delivery systems (BDSs), inspired by the intricate designs of biological systems, have emerged as a groundbreaking paradigm in nanomedicine, offering unparalleled advantages in therapeutic delivery. These systems, encompassing platforms such as liposomes, protein-based nanoparticles, extracellular vesicles, and polysaccharides, are lauded for their targeted delivery, minimized side effects, and enhanced therapeutic outcomes. However, the translation of BDSs from research settings to clinical applications is fraught with challenges, including reproducibility concerns, physiological stability, and rigorous efficacy and safety evaluations. Furthermore, the innovative nature of BDSs demands the reevaluation and evolution of existing regulatory and ethical frameworks. This review provides an overview of BDSs and delves into the multifaceted translational challenges and present emerging solutions, underscored by real-world case studies. Emphasizing the potential of BDSs to redefine healthcare, we advocate for sustained interdisciplinary collaboration and research. As our understanding of biological systems deepens, the future of BDSs in clinical translation appears promising, with a focus on personalized medicine and refined patient-specific delivery systems.

Nanoparticles in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular aging and related diseases

Aging-induced alternations of vasculature structures, phenotypes, and functions are key in the occurrence and development of vascular aging-related diseases. Multiple molecular and cellular events, such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, vascular inflammation, cellular senescence, and epigenetic alterations are highly associated with vascular aging physiopathology. Advances in nanoparticles and nanotechnology, which can realize sensitive diagnostic modalities, efficient medical treatment, and better prognosis as well as less adverse effects on non-target tissues, provide an amazing window in the field of vascular aging and related diseases. Throughout this review, we presented current knowledge on classification of nanoparticles and the relationship between vascular aging and related diseases. Importantly, we comprehensively summarized the potential of nanoparticles-based diagnostic and therapeutic techniques in vascular aging and related diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, as well as chronic kidney diseases, and discussed the advantages and limitations of their clinical applications.