Gantrez AN as a new polymer for the preparation of ligand-nanoparticle conjugates

Development of recombinant subunit vaccine targeting InvH protein of Salmonella Typhimurium and evaluation of its immunoprotective efficacy against salmonellosis

Salmonella Typhimurium is the most prevalent non-host specific Salmonella serovars and a major concern for both human and animal health systems worldwide contributing to significant economic loss. Type 3 secretion system (T3SS) of Salmonella plays an important role in bacterial adherence and entry into the host epithelial cells. The product of invH gene of Salmonella is an important component of the needle complex of the type 3 secretion system. Hence, the present study was undertaken to clone and express the 15 kDa InvH surface protein of Salmonella Typhimurium in an E. coli host and to evaluate its immune potency in mice. The purified recombinant InvH (r-InvH) protein provoked a significant (p < 0.01) rise in IgG in the inoculated mice. The immunized mice were completely (100%) protected against the challenge dose of 107.5 LD50, while protection against challenge with the same dose of heterologous serovars was 90%. The bacterin-vaccinated group showed homologous protection of 60% against all three serovars. Findings in this study suggest the potential of the r-InvH protein of S. Typhimurium as an effective vaccine candidate against Salmonella infections.

Encapsulated Phytomedicines against Cancer: Overcoming the "Valley of Death"

P2Et is the standardized extract of Caesalpinia spinosa (C. spinosa), which has shown the ability to reduce primary tumors and metastasis in animal models of cancer, by mechanisms involving the increase in intracellular Ca++, reticulum stress, induction of autophagy, and subsequent activation of the immune system. Although P2Et has been shown to be safe in healthy individuals, the biological activity and bioavailability can be increased by improving the dosage form. This study investigates the potential of a casein nanoparticle for oral administration of P2Et and its impact on treatment efficacy in a mouse model of breast cancer with orthotopically transplanted 4T1 cells. Animals were treated with either free or encapsulated oral P2Et orally or i.p. Tumor growth and macrometastases were evaluated. All P2Et treatments significantly delayed tumor growth. The frequency of macrometastasis was reduced by 1.1 times with P2Et i.p., while oral P2Et reduced it by 3.2 times and nanoencapsulation reduced it by 3.57 times. This suggests that nanoencapsulation led to higher doses of effective P2Et being delivered, slightly improving bioavailability and biological activity. Therefore, the results of this study provide evidence to consider P2Et as a potential adjuvant in the treatment of cancer, while the nanoencapsulation of P2Et provides a novel perspective on the delivery of these functional ingredients.

Design as strategy for evaluation of the mechanical properties of binary mixtures composed of poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic anhydride) and Pluronic F127 for biomedical applications

The synergism between thermoresponsive and bioadhesive polymers can lead to the optimization of materials with enhanced mechanical and bioadhesive properties. Quality by Design can assure the understanding and control of formulation variables. In this approach, Design of Experiment has been widely utilized as an important strategy. Poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic anhydride) (PVMMA) is a bioadhesive polymer and Pluronic F127 (PF127) shows thermoresponsiveness. The association of these two polymers has been poorly investigated. The aim of this work was to study the mechanical, bioadhesive and rheological properties of polymer mixtures composed of PVMMA and PF127, in order to select the best conditions and formulations for biomedical applications. Textural properties (hardness, compressibility, adhesiveness, cohesiveness and elasticity), softness index, bioadhesion and rheological characteristics (flow and viscoelasticity) showed that 17.5-20% (w/w) PF127-polymer mixtures displayed improved values of the parameters. However, the rheological interaction parameter showed low synergism, due to the polymers' characteristics and system organization. The formulations displayed gelation temperatures suitable for administration, with improved bioadhesive properties mainly at 34 °C and suggests the formulations can be used for biomedical applications. DoE constituted an important tool to investigate these systems showing the main effects that significantly influence the binary mixtures.

Development of a Bacterial Nanoparticle Vaccine Against Escherichia coli

Currently, different subunit-based vaccine strategies against enterobacteria are being investigated. Among those, bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMV) are promising candidates because of their immunogenic properties and safety. In order to develop an effective vaccine against this kind of pathogens, it is important to induce both systemic and mucosal immunity. For that reason, the oral route of administration would be an adequate option; although it still represents a challenge due to the particular and harsh conditions of the gut. To overcome these inconveniences, different strategies have been proposed, including the use of polymeric nanoparticles based on the copolymer between methyl vinyl ether and maleic anhydride (Gantrez AN). In the present work, a simple procedure for the preparation of heat-induced OMV (named as HT) obtained from Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) loaded into these poly(anhydride) nanoparticles is described.

Formation of Multicolor Nanogels Based on Cationic Polyfluorenes and Poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic monoethyl ester): Potential Use as pH-Responsive Fluorescent Drug Carriers

In this study, we employed the copolymer poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic monoethyl ester) (PMVEMA-Es) and three fluorene-based cationic conjugated polyelectrolytes to develop fluorescent nanoparticles with emission in the blue, green and red spectral regions. The size, Zeta Potential, polydispersity, morphology, time-stability and fluorescent properties of these nanoparticles were characterized, as well as the nature of the interaction between both PMVEMA-Es and fluorescent polyelectrolytes. Because PMVEMA-Es contains a carboxylic acid group in its structure, the effects of pH and ionic strength on the nanoparticles were also evaluated, finding that the size is responsive to pH and ionic strength, largely swelling at physiological pH and returning to their initial size at acidic pHs. Thus, the developed fluorescent nanoparticles can be categorized as pH-sensitive fluorescent nanogels, since they possess the properties of both pH-responsive hydrogels and nanoparticulate systems. Doxorubicin (DOX) was used as a model drug to show the capacity of the blue-emitting nanogels to hold drugs in acidic media and release them at physiological pH, from changes in the fluorescence properties of both nanoparticles and DOX. In addition, preliminary studies by super-resolution confocal microscopy were performed, regarding their potential use as image probes.

Protection Conferred by Drinking Water Administration of a Nanoparticle-Based Vaccine against Salmonella Enteritidis in Hens

Salmonellosis remains a major medical and an unmet socioeconomic challenge. Worldwide, more than three million deaths per year are associated with Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis infections. Although commercially available vaccines for use in poultry exist, their efficacy is limited. We previously described a method for isolating a heat extract (HE) fraction of the cell surface of S. Enteritidis that contained major antigenic complexes immunogenic in hens naturally infected with the bacterium. One single dose of S. Enteritidis’ HE induced protection against lethal salmonellosis in mice. Furthermore, HE encapsulation in nanoparticles of the copolymer of methyl vinyl ether and maleic anhydride (PVM/MA), Gantrez AN, improved and prolonged the protection against the disease in mice. We formulated new preparations of Gantrez AN nanoparticles with HE S. Enteritidis and assessed their stability in drinking water and their efficacy in hens after experimental infection. The oral treatment of six-week-old hens with two doses of HE nanoparticles significantly reduced the Salmonella excretion in hens. Due to the effectiveness of the treatment in reducing bacterial excretion, we conclude that HE nanoencapsulation obtained from S. Enteritidis is a viable novel vaccination approach against salmonellosis in farms.

A glycoconjugate-based gold nanoparticle approach for the targeted treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms

In this study, "core-shell" gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been functionalised using a simple one-pot approach to form fucose-based glycoconjugate AuNPs (Fuc-AuNPs) and galactose-based glycoconjugate AuNPs (Gal-AuNPs), respectively. Owing to the selective carbohydrate-based recognition of the key virulence factors of P. aeruginosa, LecB (fucose-specific lectin)/LecA (galactose-specific lectin), Fuc-AuNPs and Gal-AuNPs-based imaging and therapeutic strategies were evaluated towards P. aeruginosa. Both Fuc-AuNPs and Gal-AuNPs were non-covalently loaded with the fluorophore dicyanomethylene 4H-pyran (DCM) to afford two highly selective fluorescence imaging agents for the visualisation of P. aeruginosa. The loading of Fuc-AuNPs and Gal-AuNPs with the known antibiotic Ceftazidime (CAZ) exhibited an enhanced therapeutic effect, illustrating the significance of this targeted drug delivery strategy. Exploiting the phototherapeutic properties of AuNPs, photoirradiation (600 nm) of Fuc-AuNP@CAZ/Gal-AuNP@CAZ provided both photothermal and photodynamic therapeutic (PTT/PDT) effects, which facilitated the release of CAZ. Fuc-AuNP@CAZ and Gal-AuNP@CAZ were shown to be effective photo/chemotherapeutics resulting in almost complete eradication of P. aeruginosa biofilms formed on clinically relevant surfaces (glass slides and steel surface).

Preparation, radiolabeling with 99mTc and 67Ga and biodistribution studies of albumin nanoparticles covered with polymers

OBJECTIVE

To optimize radiolabeling with ^99mTc and ⁶⁷Ga of albumin nanoparticles coated with 4 differents synthetic polymers and to evaluate their stability in vivo and in vitro, as well as their biodistribution in vivo after intravenous administration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The nanoparticles were prepared using albumin and NOTA-modified albumin by the desolvation method and coated with 4 different polymers; HPMC, GMN2, GPM2 and GTM2. They were purified, lyophilized and characterized. Radiolabelling with ^99mTc was perfomed with 74 MBq of ^99mTc sodium pertechnetate, previously reduced with and acid solution of tin chloride at different concentrations (0.003, 0.005, 0.007, 0.01, 0.05 and 0.1mg/ml) and at different times (5, 10, 15, 30 and 60minutes) and temperatures (room temperature, 40°C and 60°C). Radiolabelling with ⁶⁷Ga was perfomed by incubation of the nanoparticles with 37 MBq of ⁶⁷Gallium chloride (obtained from commercial gallium-⁶⁷ citrate) at different times (10 and 30minutes) and temperatures (room temperature, 30°C and 60°C), and posterior purification with microconcentrators. The radiochemical purity was evaluated by TLC. Stability studies of radiolabeled nanoparticles in physiological serum and blood plasma were perfomed. Biodistribution studies of nanoparticles coated with GPM2 polymer were carried out in Wistar rats after intravenous administration of the nanoparticles. Control animals were carried out with ^99mTc sodium pertechnetate and ⁶⁷Ga chloride. To do so, the animals were killed and activity in organs was measured in a gamma counter.

RESULTS

^99mTc labeling was carried out optimally with a tin concentration of 0.007mg/ ml for the GPM2 nanoparticles and 0.005mg / ml for the rest of the formulations, with a radiolabelling time of 10minutes at room temperature. In the case of ⁶⁷Ga the label was optimized at 30° C temperature and 30minutes of incubation. In both cases the radiochemical purity obtained was greater than 97%. The nanoparticles showed high stability in vitro after 48hours of labeling (70% nanoparticles labeled with ^99mTc and 90% those labeled with ⁶⁷Ga). Biodistribution studies of nanoparticles ^99mTc -GPM2 and ⁶⁷Ga -NOTA-GPM2 showed a high accumulation of activity in the liver at 2 and 24hours after intravenous administration.

CONCLUSION

The labeling procedure with ^99mTc and ⁶⁷Ga of albumin and albumin modified with NOTA nanoparticles allows obtaining nanoparticles with high labeling yields and adequate in vitro stability, allowing their use for in vivo studies.

Physico-Chemically Distinct Nanomaterials Synthesized from Derivates of a Poly(Anhydride) Diversify the Spectrum of Loadable Antibiotics

Recent advances in the field of nanotechnology such as nanoencapsulation offer new biomedical applications, potentially increasing the scope and efficacy of therapeutic drug delivery. In addition, the discovery and development of novel biocompatible polymers increases the versatility of these encapsulating nanostructures, enabling chemical properties of the cargo and vehicle to be adapted to specific physiological requirements. Here, we evaluate the capacity of various polymeric nanostructures to encapsulate various antibiotics of different classes, with differing chemical structure. Polymers were sourced from two separate derivatives of poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic anhydride) (PMVE/MA): an acid (PMVE/MA-Ac) and a monoethyl ester (PMVE/MA-Es). Nanoencapsulation of antibiotics was attempted through electrospinning, and nanoparticle synthesis through solvent displacement, for both polymers. Solvent incompatibilities prevented the nanoencapsulation of amikacin, neomycin and ciprofloxacin in PMVE/MA-Es nanofibers. However, all compounds were successfully loaded into PMVE/MA-Es nanoparticles. Encapsulation efficiencies in nanofibers reached approximately 100% in all compatible systems; however, efficiencies varied substantially in nanoparticles systems, depending on the tested compound (14%-69%). Finally, it was confirmed that both these encapsulation processes did not alter the antimicrobial activity of any tested antibiotic against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, supporting the viability of these approaches for nanoscale delivery of antibiotics.

Mannosylated Nanoparticles for Oral Immunotherapy in a Murine Model of Peanut Allergy

Peanut allergy is one of the most prevalent and severe of food allergies with no available cure. The aim of this work was to evaluate the potential of an oral immunotherapy based on the use of a roasted peanut extract encapsulated in nanoparticles with immunoadjuvant properties. For this, a polymer conjugate formed by the covalent binding of mannosamine to the copolymer of methyl vinyl ether and maleic anhydride was first synthetized and characterized. Then, the conjugate was used to prepare nanoparticles with an important capability to diffuse through the mucus layer and reach, in a large extent, the intestinal epithelium, including Peyer's patches. Their immunotherapeutic potential was evaluated in a model of presensitized CD1 mice to peanut. After completing therapy, mice underwent an intraperitoneal challenge with peanut extract. Nanoparticle-treatment was associated with both less serious anaphylaxis symptoms and higher survival rates than control, confirming the protective effect of this formulation against the challenge.

Anti-Erosive Effect of Solutions Containing Sodium Fluoride, Stannous Chloride, and Selected Film-Forming Polymers

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-erosive effect of solutions containing sodium fluoride (F: 225 ppm F–), stannous chloride (Sn: 800 ppm Sn2+), and some film-forming polymers (Gantrez: Poly [methylvinylether-alt-maleic anhydride]; PGA: propylene glycol alginate; Plasdone: poly[vinylpyrrolidone]; and CMC: carboxymethylcellulose). Solutions were tested in an erosion-remineralization cycling model, using enamel and dentin specimens (n = 10, for each substrate). Distilled water was the negative control. Cycling consisted of 120 min immersion in human saliva, 5 min in 0.3% citric acid solution, and 120 min of exposure to human saliva, 4×/day, for 5 days. Treatment with solutions (pH = 4.5) was carried out 2×/day, for 2 min. Surface loss (SL) was evaluated with optical profilometry. Zeta potential of hydroxyapatite crystals was determined after treatment with the solutions. Data were statistically analyzed (α = 0.05). For enamel, all polymers showed significantly lower SL (in µm) than the control (11.09 ± 0.94), except PGA (10.15 ± 1.25). PGA significantly improved the protective effect of F (4.24 ± 0.97 vs. 5.64 ± 1.60, respectively). None of the polymers increased the protection of F+Sn (5.13 ± 0.78). For dentin, only Gantrez (11.40 ± 0.97) significantly reduced SL when compared with the negative control (12.76 ± 0.75). No polymer was able to enhance the effect of F (6.28 ± 1.90) or F+Sn (7.21 ± 1.13). All fluoridated solutions demonstrated significantly lower SL values than the control for both substrates. Treatment of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles with all solutions resulted in more negative zeta potentials than those of the control, except Plasdone, PGA, and F+Sn+PGA, the latter two presenting the opposite effect. In conclusion, Gantrez, Plasdone, and CMC exhibited an anti-erosive effect on enamel. PGA increased the protection of F. For dentin, only Gantrez reduced erosion.

Pegylated poly(anhydride) nanoparticles for oral delivery of docetaxel

The aim of this work was to investigate the potential of pegylated poly(anhydride) nanoparticles to enhance the oral bioavailability of docetaxel (DTX). Nanoparticles were prepared after the incubation between the copolymer of methyl vinyl ether and maleic anhydride (Gantrez® AN), poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG2000 or PEG6000) and docetaxel (DTX). The oral administration of a single dose of pegylated nanoparticles to mice provided sustained and prolonged therapeutic plasma levels of docetaxel for up 48-72 h. In addition, the relative oral bioavailability of docetaxel was around 32%. The organ distribution studies revealed that docetaxel underwent a similar distribution when orally administered encapsulated in nanoparticles as when intravenously as Taxotere®. This observation, with the fact that the clearance of docetaxel when loaded into the oral pegylated nanoparticles was found to be similar to that of intravenous formulation, suggests that docetaxel would be released at the epithelium surface and then absorbed to the circulation.

Hydrogels based on poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic acid) and Tween 85 for sustained delivery of hydrophobic drugs

Hydrogels based on poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic acid) and Tween 85 were prepared for hydrophobic drug delivery. The hydrogels were synthesized following a simple procedure carried out in solid state. The process did not require the use of any solvent and, as it is based on an esterification reaction, no toxic by-products were obtained. The resulting hydrogels contained Tween 85 inside the structure and due to the amphiphilic nature of this compound, hydrophobic domains within the hydrogel structure were formed. The obtained hydrogels showed good swelling capacities ranging from 100% to 600%. The esterification reaction that took place between poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic acid) and Tween 85 was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy. Hydrogels were loaded with a hydrophobic drug model, Curcumin (CUR), showing that the hydrogels were able to retain up to 36 mg of CUR per g of hydrogel. Additionally, the synthesized hydrogels provided in vitro sustained CUR release over periods of up to 30 days. Finally, and due to the mucoadhesive nature of the prepared materials, one of the hydrogels was tested in vitro as an oral drug delivery system. For this purpose, the selected material was milled into microparticles (45-90 µm diameter). The release of CUR from the microparticles was evaluated under simulated gastric and intestinal conditions. The microparticles were able to release their cargos in 7 h. However, further work is required to optimize this system for oral drug delivery applications.

In vitro evaluation of the genotoxicity of poly(anhydride) nanoparticles designed for oral drug delivery

In the last years, the development of nanomaterials has significantly increased due to the immense variety of potential applications in technological sectors, such as medicine, pharmacy and food safety. Focusing on the nanodevices for oral drug delivery, poly(anhydride) nanoparticles have received extensive attention due to their unique properties, such as their capability to develop intense adhesive interactions within the gut mucosa, their modifiable surface and their biodegradable and easy-to-produce profile. However, current knowledge of the possible adverse health effects as well as, toxicological information, is still exceedingly limited. Thus, we investigated the capacity of two poly(anhydride) nanoparticles, Gantrez^® AN 119-NP (GN-NP) and Gantrez^® AN 119 covered with mannosamine (GN-MA-NP), and their main bulk material (Gantrez^® AN 119-Polymer), to induce DNA damage and thymidine kinase (TK^+/-) mutations in L5178Y TK^+/- mouse lymphoma cells after 24h of exposure. The results showed that GN-NP, GN-MA-NP and their polymer did not induce DNA strand breaks or oxidative damage at concentrations ranging from 7.4 to 600μg/mL. Besides, the mutagenic potential of these nanoparticles and their polymer revealed no significant or biologically relevant gene mutation induction at concentrations up to 600μg/mL under our experimental settings. Considering the non-genotoxic effects of GN-NP and GN-MA-NP, as well as their exceptional properties, these nanoparticles are promising nanocarriers for oral medical administrations.

Poly(anhydride) nanoparticles act as effective adjuvants to elicit a persistent immune response

This research shows that p-OVA nanoparticles composed of poly(anhydride) and OVA have a strong ability to induce an OVA-specific immune response.

Cross-Linked Hydrogels Formed through Diels-Alder Coupling of Furan- and Maleimide-Modified Poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic acid)

The Diels-Alder [4 + 2] cycloaddition between furan- and maleimide-functional polyanions was used to form cross-linked synthetic polymer hydrogels. Poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic anhydride) was reacted with furfurylamine or N-(2-aminoethyl)maleimide in acetonitrile to form pairs of furan- and maleimide-functionalized poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic acid)s. Mixtures of these mutually reactive polyanions in water gelled within 15 min to 18 h, depending on degree of functionalization and polymer concentrations. Solution and magic-angle spinning (1)H NMR were used to confirm the formation of the Diels-Alder adduct, to analyze competing hydrolytic side reactions, and demonstrate postgelation functionalization. The effect of the degree of furan and maleimide functionalization, polymer concentration, pH, and calcium ion concentration, on gelation time, gel mechanical properties, and equilibrium swelling, are described. Release of dextran as a model drug was studied using fluorescence spectroscopy, as a function of gel composition and calcium treatment.

Poly(vinyl alcohol)–Gantrez® AN cryogels for wound care applications

Cryotropic gelation is a low cost, well-known technique that has been used for decades for the preparation of cryogels based on poly(vinyl alcohol).

Wheat germ agglutinin modification of lipid–polymer hybrid nanoparticles: enhanced cellular uptake and bioadhesion

WGA-modified lipid–polymer hybrid nanoparticles (WGA-LPNs) showed increased intestinal bioadhesion and cellular uptake and have the potential to improve the oral delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs.

Bioenhanced oral curcumin nanoparticles: Role of carbohydrates

The paper discusses polysaccharide-adsorbed curcumin-Gantrez nanoparticles for bioenhancement of oral curcumin. Nanoparticles revealed no change in size over time in pH 1.2 and 7.4, and a rapid drug release in pH 1.2 and 7.4 medium containing surfactant. Without adsorbed polysaccharides, nanoparticles exhibited high Cmax (61.3 ± 22.3 ng/mL), sustained plasma concentration up to 24h and 117% absolute bioavailability, attributed to bioadhesion. In contrast galactose polysaccharides arabinogalactan and kappa-carrageenan adsorbed nanoparticles exhibited rapid absorption with higher Cmax of 109.5 ± 31.2 ng/mL and 92.3 ± 21.2 ng/mL, respectively, but faster elimination and absolute bioavailability of greater than 25%. The glucose polysaccharide pullulan adsorbed nanoparticles exhibited significantly lower Cmax (39.7 ± 20.6 ng/mL) and bioavailability (13%). Lower bioavailability of polysaccharide adsorbed nanoparticles was attributed to high metabolism of curcumin in the intestine as a result of faster gastric elimination and high intestinal localization. However polysaccharide-adsorbed nanoparticles could play an important role in bioenhancement of drugs specifically those exhibiting good stability across the gastrointestinal tract.

Nanodelivery Systems as New Tools for Immunostimulant or Vaccine Administration: Targeting the Fish Immune System

Fish disease treatments have progressed significantly over the last few years and have moved from the massive use of antibiotics to the development of vaccines mainly based on inactivated bacteria. Today, the incorporation of immunostimulants and antigens into nanomaterials provide us with new tools to enhance the performance of immunostimulation. Nanoparticles are dispersions or solid particles designed with specific physical properties (size, surface charge, or loading capacity), which allow controlled delivery and therefore improved targeting and stimulation of the immune system. The use of these nanodelivery platforms in fish is in the initial steps of development. Here we review the advances in the application of nanoparticles to fish disease prevention including: the type of biomaterial, the type of immunostimulant or vaccine loaded into the nanoparticles, and how they target the fish immune system.

Development of a bacterial nanoparticle vaccine

A simple procedure for obtaining protective antigens from Gram-negative bacteria and their encapsulation into immunomodulatory nanoparticles is described. A heat treatment in saline solution of whole bacteria rendered the release of small membrane vesicles containing outer membrane components and also superficial appendages, such as fractions of fimbriae and flagella. The immunogenicity of these antigens may be improved after encapsulation into poly(anhydride) nanoparticles made from the copolymer of methyl vinyl ether and maleic anhydride (Gantrez AN(®)).

Aluminum-phthalocyanine chloride associated to poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) nanoparticles as a new third-generation photosensitizer for anticancer photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy is generally considered to be safer than conventional anticancer therapies, and it is effective against different kinds of cancer. However, its clinical application has been significantly limited by the hydrophobicity of photosensitizers. In this work, a system composed of the hydrophobic photosensitizer aluminum–phthalocyanine chloride (AlPc) associated with water dispersible poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) nanoparticles is described. AlPc was associated with nanoparticles produced by a method of solvent displacement. This system was analyzed for its physicochemical characteristics, and for its photodynamic activity in vitro in cancerous (murine mammary carcinoma cell lineage 4T1, and human mammary adenocarcinoma cells MCF-7) and noncancerous (murine fibroblast cell lineage NIH/3T3, and human mammary epithelial cell lineage MCF-10A) cell lines. Cell viability and the elicited mechanisms of cell death were evaluated after the application of photodynamic therapy. This system showed improved photophysical and photochemical properties in aqueous media in comparison to the free photosensitizer, and it was effective against cancerous cells in vitro.

Pharmacokinetics and antitumor efficacy of paclitaxel-cyclodextrin complexes loaded in mucus-penetrating nanoparticles for oral administration

AIM

The authors report a novel approach for enhancing the oral absorption of paclitaxel (PTX) by encapsulation in poly(anhydride) nanoparticles (NPs) containing cyclodextrins and poly(ethylene glycol).

MATERIALS & METHODS

Formulations were prepared using the solvent displacement method. Subsequently, pharmacokinetics and organ distribution assays were evaluated after oral administration into C57BL/6J mice. In addition, antitumor efficacy studies were performed in a subcutaneous tumor model of Lewis lung carcinoma.

RESULTS

PTX-loaded NPs displayed sizes between 190-300 nm. Oral NPs achieved drug plasma levels for at least 24 h, with an oral bioavailability of 55-80%. Organ distribution studies revealed that PTX, orally administered in NPs, underwent a similar distribution to intravenous Taxol(®) (Bristol-Myers Squibb, NJ, USA). For in vivo antitumor assays, oral strategy maintained a slower tumor growth than intravenous Taxol.

CONCLUSION

PTX orally administered in poly(anhydride) NPs, combined with cyclodextrins and poly(ethylene glycol), displayed sustained plasma levels and significant antitumor effect in a syngenic tumor model of carcinoma in mice.

S-nitrosothiol tethered polymer hexagons: synthesis, characterisation and antibacterial effect

In this work, we portray a new controlled nitric oxide (NO) delivery platform by grafting S-nitrosothiol derived from cysteine into the polymeric backbone of poly(vinyl methyl ether-co-maleic anhydride). Nitrosothiols (RSNO's) are linked to the polymeric backbone through solvent displacement method. By adjusting solvent polarity, materials of different shapes and sizes varying between μm and nm are prepared. More often our method of preparation resulted in hexagonally shaped polymeric materials. The structure and RSNO conjugation analysis was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FT-IR, UV-Vis spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Bactericidal efficacy of nitric oxide releasing polymer hexagons, a novel antibacterial agent is demonstrated against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Confocal microscopic studies revealed the enhanced bactericidal effect of polymer hexagons via membrane destruction. Results suggest that this biocompatible NO releasing RSNO conjugated polymer hexagons could be potentially useful for antimicrobial applications.

Thermosensitive hydrogels of poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) - Pluronic(®) F127 copolymers for controlled protein release

Thermosensitive hydrogels are of a great interest due to their many biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. In this study, we synthesized a new series of random poly (methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride) (Gantrez(®) AN, GZ) and Pluronic(®) F127 (PF127) copolymers (GZ-PF127), that formed thermosensitive hydrogels whose gelation temperature and mechanical properties could be controlled by the molar ratio of GZ and PF127 polymers and the copolymer concentration in water. Gelation temperatures tended to decrease when the GZm/PF127 ratio increased. Thus, at a fixed GZm/PF127 value, sol-gel temperatures decreased at higher copolymer concentrations. Moreover, these hydrogels controlled the release of proteins such as bovine serum albumin (BSA) and recombinant recombinant kinetoplastid membrane protein of Leishmania (rKMP-11) more than the PF127 system. Toxicity studies carried out in J774.2 macrophages showed that cell viability was higher than 80%. Finally, histopathological analysis revealed that subcutaneous administration of low volumes of these hydrogels elicited a tolerable inflammatory response that could be useful to induce immune responses against the protein cargo in the development of vaccine adjuvants.

[Radiolabeling and biodistribution studies of polymeric nanoparticles as adjuvants for ocular vaccination against brucellosis]

PURPOSE

To optimize radiolabeling with (99m)Tc of mannosylated Gantrez(®) nanoparticles loaded with the Brucella Ovis antigen (Man-NP-HS) and to carry out biodistribution studies in mice after ocular administration of the nanoparticles.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Man-NP-HS nanoparticles were prepared by the solvent displacement method. They were purified, lyophilized and characterized. Following this, they were radiolabeled with 74 MBq of (99m)TcO4(-) previously reduced with an acidic stannous chloride solution, working in absence of oxygen and at a final pH of 4. Radiolabeling yield was evaluated by TLC. Biodistribution studies were carried out in mice after ocular administration of the formulation and control of free (99m)TcO4(-). To do so, the animals were humanely killed at 2 and 24hours after the ocular administration and activity in organs was measured in a Gamma counter.

RESULTS

Radiolabeling yield obtained was greater than 90%. Biodistribution studies of (99m)Tc-Man-NP-HS showed radioactivity accumulated at 2 and 24hours in nasal and ocular mucosa and gastrointestinal tract, in contrast to biodistribution of free (99m)TcO4(-) that remained concentrated in the skin around the eye and gastrointestinal tract.

CONCLUSION

Biodistribution studies of (99m)Tc-Man-NP-HS after ocular instillation have made it possible to demonstrate its biodistribution in nasal mucosa and gastrointestinal tract. This characteristic is essential as an antigenic delivery system throughout the ocular mucosa. This, together with its elevated immune response, effective protection and intrinsic avirulence make them a suitable anti-Brucella vaccine candidate.

Nanovaccines : nanocarriers for antigen delivery

Vaccination has become one of the most important health interventions of our times, revolutionizing health care, and improving the quality of life and life expectancy of millions all over the world. In spite of this, vaccine research remains a vast field for innovation and improvement. Indeed, the shift towards the use of sub-unit antigens, much safer but less immunogenic, and the recognized need to facilitate the access to vaccines in the global framework is currently stimulating the search for safe and efficient adjuvants and delivery technologies. Within this context, nanocarriers have gained particular attention over the last years and appear as one of the most promising strategies for antigen delivery. A number of biomaterials and technologies can be used to design nanovaccines that fulfill the requirements of new vaccination approaches, such as single-dose and transmucosal immunization, critical for achieving a widespread coverage while reducing the overall costs in relation to traditional forms of vaccination. Here we present an overview of the current state of nanocarriers for antigen delivery, developed with the perspective of contributing to the global vaccination goal.

A vaccine based on biodegradable microspheres induces protective immunity against scuticociliatosis without producing side effects in turbot

The histiophagous scuticociliate parasite Philasterides dicentrarchi is an emergent pathogen in aquaculture and causes significant economic losses on turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) farms. In this study, the surface antigens (Ag) of the parasite were encapsulated and covalently linked to a polymeric microparticle formulation composed of two biodegradable polymers (chitosan and Gantrez). The antigenicity of the formulation and the protection provided were compared in mice and turbot. This formulation induced a higher antibody (Ab) response in mice at doses of 5mg of microspheres (MS) conjugated with approximately 230 μg of Ag (MS-Ag(c)). However, Ab levels were significantly lower than in mice vaccinated with the same concentration of Ag in complete Freund's adjuvant (FCA). In turbot, the MS-Ag(c) formulation induced a higher level of Abs than that induced by the same vaccine emulsified in FCA. The challenge experiments performed with P. dicentrarchi and vaccinated turbot also showed a clear correlation between Ab levels and survival levels. Growth was significantly affected in fish vaccinated with FCA, but not in fish vaccinated with MS. The high adjuvant capacity of MS, together with its biodegradability and low toxicity to fish, makes this new vaccine an economical, effective and safe alternative to oil-based adjuvants for the immunoprophylaxis of scuticociliatosis in turbot.

Toxicity studies of poly(anhydride) nanoparticles as carriers for oral drug delivery

PURPOSE

To evaluate the acute and subacute toxicity of poly(anhydride) nanoparticles as carriers for oral drug/antigen delivery.

METHODS

Three types of poly(anhydride) nanoparticles were assayed: conventional (NP), nanoparticles containing 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (NP-HPCD) and nanoparticles coated with poly(ethylene glycol) 6000 (PEG-NP). Nanoparticles were prepared by a desolvation method and characterized in terms of size, zeta potential and morphology. For in vivo oral studies, acute and sub-acute toxicity studies were performed in rats in accordance to the OECD 425 and 407 guidelines respectively. Finally, biodistribution studies were carried out after radiolabelling nanoparticles with (99m)technetium.

RESULTS

Nanoparticle formulations displayed a homogeneous size of about 180 nm and a negative zeta potential. The LD(50) for all the nanoparticles tested was established to be higher than 2000 mg/kg bw. In the sub-chronic oral toxicity studies at two different doses (30 and 300 mg/kg bw), no evident signs of toxicity were found. Lastly, biodistribution studies demonstrated that these carriers remained in the gut with no evidences of particle translocation or distribution to other organs.

CONCLUSIONS

Poly(anhydride) nanoparticles (either conventional or modified with HPCD or PEG6000) showed no toxic effects, indicating that these carriers might be a safe strategy for oral delivery of therapeutics.