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Ouyang N, Yang C, Li X, Zheng Z, Xu Y, Wang Y, Xiong W, Wu H. Development of lactoferrin-coated multifunctional copolymer micelles to cross the blood-brain barrier. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024; 14:773-787. [PMID: 37721695 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01432-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) prevents pathogens and toxins in the bloodstream from reaching the brain, but also inhibits the delivery of agents intended to treat central nervous system disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, we prepared and evaluated a novel nano-delivery vehicle system composed of lactoferrin-conjugated (Lf-PIC@Se) micelles. We used a COOH-PEG-PAsp-PV@Se synthesis-based method to prepare the micelles, which involved self-assembly followed by EDC-NHS coupling. Using glutaminyl cyclase inhibitor 8 as a model encapsulated chemical, Lf-PIC@Se micelles achieved a good loading capacity. In vitro analysis demonstrated that Lf-PIC@Se/8 micelles were stable in both neutral and acidic pH solutions in the presence or absence of H2O2, and confirmed their biosafety and compatibility in PC12 and bEND.3 cells. Notably, the cell uptake of Lf-PIC@Se/C6 micelles was much higher than that of PIC@Se micelles, and occurred through LfR-mediated endocytosis. The presence of Se meant that Lf-PIC@Se micelles acted as ROS scavengers in PC12 cells under H2O2-induced oxidative stress, which inhibited oxidative damage and increased mitochondrial membrane potential. Hemolysis assays further demonstrated that Lf-PIC@Se represent a biocompatible carrier. Finally, in vivo experiments in mice suggested that Lf-PIC@Se micelles successfully crossed the BBB, confirming their potential as vehicles for drug delivery when treating AD and other central nervous system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Ouyang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chunhua Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xia Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhenting Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yinan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Haiqiang Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China.
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2
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Dutta S, Noh S, Gual RS, Chen X, Pané S, Nelson BJ, Choi H. Recent Developments in Metallic Degradable Micromotors for Biomedical and Environmental Remediation Applications. NANO-MICRO LETTERS 2023; 16:41. [PMID: 38032424 PMCID: PMC10689718 DOI: 10.1007/s40820-023-01259-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic micromotor has gained substantial attention in biomedicine and environmental remediation. Metal-based degradable micromotor composed of magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) have promise due to their nontoxic fuel-free propulsion, favorable biocompatibility, and safe excretion of degradation products Recent advances in degradable metallic micromotor have shown their fast movement in complex biological media, efficient cargo delivery and favorable biocompatibility. A noteworthy number of degradable metal-based micromotors employ bubble propulsion, utilizing water as fuel to generate hydrogen bubbles. This novel feature has projected degradable metallic micromotors for active in vivo drug delivery applications. In addition, understanding the degradation mechanism of these micromotors is also a key parameter for their design and performance. Its propulsion efficiency and life span govern the overall performance of a degradable metallic micromotor. Here we review the design and recent advancements of metallic degradable micromotors. Furthermore, we describe the controlled degradation, efficient in vivo drug delivery, and built-in acid neutralization capabilities of degradable micromotors with versatile biomedical applications. Moreover, we discuss micromotors' efficacy in detecting and destroying environmental pollutants. Finally, we address the limitations and future research directions of degradable metallic micromotors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sourav Dutta
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- DGIST-ETH Microrobotics Research Center, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungmin Noh
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- DGIST-ETH Microrobotics Research Center, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Roger Sanchis Gual
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Xiangzhong Chen
- Institute of Optoelectronics, State Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic Science and Technology, Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Intelligent Optoelectronics and Perception, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Salvador Pané
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bradley J Nelson
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hongsoo Choi
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea.
- DGIST-ETH Microrobotics Research Center, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Gao L, Sun L, Qiu Y, Jiang Y, Luo H, Wang X, Yu H. Fabrication of hollow microtube arrays based on a femtosecond laser double-pulse multiphoton polymerization. OPTICS LETTERS 2023; 48:5495-5498. [PMID: 37910686 DOI: 10.1364/ol.502919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Microtubes with widely varied dimensions and materials have great prospects in functional devices applied in microoptics, microrobot, and biomedicine. However, the fabrication of vertically protruding hollow microtubes with high diameter-to-thickness ratio is challenging and few reported. Femtosecond laser two-photon polymerization can solve this problem via point-by-point scanning or SLM-based parallel processing, but the low efficiency limits its high throughput fabrication. Here, we report a novel, to the best of our knowledge, femtosecond laser double-pulse multiphoton polymerization approach for high efficiency fabrication of hollow microtube arrays. We established a two-aperture laser beam reshaping system to generate a circular beam via two rounds of Fresnel diffraction. Based on the unique laser energy distribution, hollow microtubes with high diameter-to-thickness ratio can be generated by two successively laser pulses exposure, which can improve the fabrication efficiency significantly. With the optimized parameters, we can achieve repeatable and uniform microtube array fabrication in large scale, and the yield can be 94.9%. Defocus testing showed that the proposed approach has a high range of focusing tolerance. The proposed microtube fabrication approach is meaningful in providing some enlightenment for researchers in the field of microfabrication.
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4
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Zhang L, Zhang B, Liang R, Ran H, Zhu D, Ren J, Liu L, Ma A, Cai L. A Dual-Biomineralized Yeast Micro-/Nanorobot with Self-Driving Penetration for Gastritis Therapy and Motility Recovery. ACS NANO 2023; 17:6410-6422. [PMID: 36988613 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c11258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Micro-/nanorobots have attracted great interest in the field of drug delivery and treatment, while preparations for biocompatible robots are extremely challenging. Here, a self-driving yeast micro-/nanorobot (Cur@CaY-robot) is designed via dual biomineralization and acid catalysis of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Inner nano-CaCO3 inside yeast cells (CaY) is biomineralized through cell respiration and provides nanoscaffolds for highly encapsulating curcumin (Cur). Meanwhile, the CaCO3 crystals outside yeast cells (outer-CaCO3) through uniaxial growth offer an asymmetric power source for self-propelled motility. The Cur@CaY-robot displays an efficient motion in gastric acid, with the potential for deep penetration to the thick gastric mucus, which significantly improves the accumulation of drug agents in the stomach wall tissue for robust gastritis therapy. More importantly, Ca2+ cations released from the Cur@CaY-robot also synergistically repair the gastric motility of gastritis mice. Such yeast micro-/nanorobots exhibit desirable biocompatibility and biodegradability with a good loading capacity for drugs. This work provides an idea for the design of micro-/nanorobots through an environmentally friendly biosynthesis strategy for active drug delivery and precise therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lishan Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine, CAS-HK Joint Lab of Biomaterials, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Nanomedicine and Nanoformulations, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs, Key Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, People's Republic of China
| | - Baozhen Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine, CAS-HK Joint Lab of Biomaterials, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Nanomedicine and Nanoformulations, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruijing Liang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine, CAS-HK Joint Lab of Biomaterials, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Nanomedicine and Nanoformulations, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Ran
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine, CAS-HK Joint Lab of Biomaterials, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Nanomedicine and Nanoformulations, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs, Key Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, People's Republic of China
| | - Denghui Zhu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine, CAS-HK Joint Lab of Biomaterials, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Nanomedicine and Nanoformulations, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Ren
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine, CAS-HK Joint Lab of Biomaterials, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Nanomedicine and Nanoformulations, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Lanlan Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine, CAS-HK Joint Lab of Biomaterials, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Nanomedicine and Nanoformulations, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Aiqing Ma
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs, Key Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, People's Republic of China
| | - Lintao Cai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine, CAS-HK Joint Lab of Biomaterials, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Nanomedicine and Nanoformulations, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
- Zhuhai Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhuhai 519000, People's Republic of China
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5
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Wang Y, Shen J, Handschuh-Wang S, Qiu M, Du S, Wang B. Microrobots for Targeted Delivery and Therapy in Digestive System. ACS NANO 2023; 17:27-50. [PMID: 36534488 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c04716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Untethered miniature robots enable targeted delivery and therapy deep inside the gastrointestinal tract in a minimally invasive manner. By combining actuation systems and imaging tools, significant progress has been made toward the development of functional microrobots. These robots can be actuated by external fields and fuels while featuring real-time tracking feedback toward certain regions and can perform the therapeutic process by rational exertion of the local environment of the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., pH, enzyme). Compared with conventional surgical tools, such as endoscopic devices and catheters, miniature robots feature minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment, multifunctionality, high safety and adaptivity, embodied intelligence, and easy access to tortuous and narrow lumens. In addition, the active motion of microrobots enhances local penetration and retention of drugs in tissues compared to common passive oral drug delivery. Based on the dissimilar microenvironments in the various sections of the gastrointestinal tract, this review introduces the advances of miniature robots for minimally invasive targeted delivery and therapy of diseases along the gastrointestinal tract. The imaging modalities for the tracking and their application scenarios are also discussed. We finally evaluate the challenges and barriers that retard their applications and hint on future research directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen518055, P.R. China
| | - Jie Shen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Spine Surgery, Department of Spine Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518036, P.R. China
| | - Stephan Handschuh-Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen518055, P.R. China
| | - Ming Qiu
- Department of Neurosurgery, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen518111, P.R. China
| | - Shiwei Du
- Department of Neurosurgery, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen518111, P.R. China
| | - Ben Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen518055, P.R. China
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6
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Bag P, Nayak S, Debnath T, Ghosh PK. Directed Autonomous Motion and Chiral Separation of Self-Propelled Janus Particles in Convection Roll Arrays. J Phys Chem Lett 2022; 13:11413-11418. [PMID: 36459443 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.2c03193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Self-propelled Janus particles exhibit autonomous motion thanks to engines of their own. However, due to the randomly changing direction of such motion they are of little use for emerging nanotechnological and biomedical applications. Here, we numerically show that the motion of chiral active Janus particles can be directed, subjecting them to a linear array of convection rolls. The rectification power of self-propulsion motion here can be made to be more than 60%, which is much larger than earlier reports. We show that rectification of a chiral Janus particle's motion leads to conspicuous segregation of dextrogyre and levogyre active particles from a racemic binary mixture. Further, we demonstrate how efficiently the rectification effect can be exploited to separate dextrogyre and levogyre particles when their intrinsic torques are distributed with Gaussian statistics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poulami Bag
- Department of Chemistry, Presidency University, Kolkata700073, India
| | - Shubhadip Nayak
- Department of Chemistry, Presidency University, Kolkata700073, India
| | - Tanwi Debnath
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calcutta, Kolkata700009, India
| | - Pulak K Ghosh
- Department of Chemistry, Presidency University, Kolkata700073, India
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7
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Wang Z, Mu X, Tan L, Zhong Y, Cheang UK. A rolled-up-based fabrication method of 3D helical microrobots. Front Robot AI 2022; 9:1063987. [PMID: 36523446 PMCID: PMC9744796 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2022.1063987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
While the potential of using helical microrobots for biomedical applications, such as cargo transport, drug delivery, and micromanipulation, had been demonstrated, the viability to use them for practical applications is hindered by the cost, speed, and repeatability of current fabrication techniques. Hence, this paper introduces a simple, low-cost, high-throughput manufacturing process for single nickel layer helical microrobots with consistent dimensions. Photolithography and electron-beam (e-beam) evaporation were used to fabricate 2D parallelogram patterns that were sequentially rolled up into helical microstructures through the swelling effect of a photoresist sacrificial layer. Helical parameters were controlled by adjusting the geometric parameters of parallelogram patterns. To validate the fabrication process and characterize the microrobots' mobility, we characterized the structures and surface morphology of the microrobots using a scanning electron microscope and tested their steerability using feedback control, respectively. Finally, we conducted a benchmark comparison to demonstrate that the fabrication method can produce helical microrobots with swimming properties comparable to previously reported microrobots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Groningen and University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Xueliang Mu
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Liyuan Tan
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yukun Zhong
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - U. Kei Cheang
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robotics and Intelligent Systems, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Human-Augmentation and Rehabilitation Robotics in Universities, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
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Shah ZH, Wu B, Das S. Multistimuli-responsive microrobots: A comprehensive review. Front Robot AI 2022; 9:1027415. [PMID: 36420129 PMCID: PMC9676497 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2022.1027415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Untethered robots of the size of a few microns have attracted increasing attention for the potential to transform many aspects of manufacturing, medicine, health care, and bioengineering. Previously impenetrable environments have become available for high-resolution in situ and in vivo manipulations as the size of the untethered robots goes down to the microscale. Nevertheless, the independent navigation of several robots at the microscale is challenging as they cannot have onboard transducers, batteries, and control like other multi-agent systems, due to the size limitations. Therefore, various unconventional propulsion mechanisms have been explored to power motion at the nanoscale. Moreover, a variety of combinations of actuation methods has also been extensively studied to tackle different issues. In this survey, we present a thorough review of the recent developments of various dedicated ways to actuate and control multistimuli-enabled microrobots. We have also discussed existing challenges and evolving concepts associated with each technique.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sambeeta Das
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
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9
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Kim J, Park H, Yoon C. Advances in Biodegradable Soft Robots. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14214574. [PMID: 36365570 PMCID: PMC9658808 DOI: 10.3390/polym14214574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable soft robots have been proposed for a variety of intelligent applications in soft robotics, flexible electronics, and bionics. Biodegradability offers an extraordinary functional advantage to soft robots for operations accompanying smart shape transformation in response to external stimuli such as heat, pH, and light. This review primarily surveyed the current advanced scientific and engineering strategies for integrating biodegradable materials within stimuli-responsive soft robots. It also focused on the fabrication methodologies of multiscale biodegradable soft robots, and highlighted the role of biodegradable soft robots in enhancing the multifunctional properties of drug delivery capsules, biopsy tools, smart actuators, and sensors. Lastly, the current challenges and perspectives on the future development of intelligent soft robots for operation in real environments were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Kim
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Harim Park
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - ChangKyu Yoon
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Institute of Advanced Materials and Systems, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Correspondence:
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10
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Abstract
Microrobots have attracted the attention of scientists owing to their unique features to accomplish tasks in hard-to-reach sites in the human body. Microrobots can be precisely actuated and maneuvered individually or in a swarm for cargo delivery, sampling, surgery, and imaging applications. In addition, microrobots have found applications in the environmental sector (e.g., water treatment). Besides, recent advancements of three-dimensional (3D) printers have enabled the high-resolution fabrication of microrobots with a faster design-production turnaround time for users with limited micromanufacturing skills. Here, the latest end applications of 3D printed microrobots are reviewed (ranging from environmental to biomedical applications) along with a brief discussion over the feasible actuation methods (e.g., on- and off-board), and practical 3D printing technologies for microrobot fabrication. In addition, as a future perspective, we discussed the potential advantages of integration of microrobots with smart materials, and conceivable benefits of implementation of artificial intelligence (AI), as well as physical intelligence (PI). Moreover, in order to facilitate bench-to-bedside translation of microrobots, current challenges impeding clinical translation of microrobots are elaborated, including entry obstacles (e.g., immune system attacks) and cumbersome standard test procedures to ensure biocompatibility. Microbots have attracted attention due to an ability to reach places and perform tasks which are not possible with conventional techniques in a wide range of applications. Here, the authors review the recent work in the field on the fabrication, application and actuation of 3D printed microbots offering a view of the direction of future microbot research.
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11
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Zhang D, Liu S, Guan J, Mou F. "Motile-targeting" drug delivery platforms based on micro/nanorobots for tumor therapy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1002171. [PMID: 36185435 PMCID: PMC9523273 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1002171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional drug delivery systems opened the gate for tumor-targeted therapy, but they generally took advantage of enhanced permeability and retention or ligand-receptor mediated interaction, and thus suffered from limited recognition range (<0.5 nm) and low targeting efficiency (0.7%, median). Alternatively, micro/nanorobots (MNRs) may act as emerging "motile-targeting" drug delivery platforms to deliver therapeutic payloads, thereby making a giant step toward effective and safe cancer treatment due to their autonomous movement and navigation in biological media. This review focuses on the most recent developments of MNRs in "motile-targeting" drug delivery. After a brief introduction to traditional tumor-targeted drug delivery strategies and various MNRs, the representative applications of MNRs in "motile-targeting" drug delivery are systematically streamlined in terms of the propelling mechanisms. Following a discussion of the current challenges of each type of MNR in biomedical applications, as well as future prospects, several promising designs for MNRs that could benefit in "motile-targeting" drug delivery are proposed. This work is expected to attract and motivate researchers from different communities to advance the creation and practical application of the "motile-targeting" drug delivery platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fangzhi Mou
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
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12
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Biocompatible micromotors for biosensing. Anal Bioanal Chem 2022; 414:7035-7049. [PMID: 36044082 PMCID: PMC9428376 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-022-04287-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Micro/nanomotors are nanoscale devices that have been explored in various fields, such as drug delivery, environmental remediation, or biosensing and diagnosis. The use of micro/nanomotors has grown considerably over the past few years, partially because of the advantages that they offer in the development of new conceptual avenues in biosensing. This is due to their propulsion and intermixing in solution compared with their respective static forms, which enables motion-based detection methods and/or decreases bioassay time. This review focuses on the impacts of micro/nanomotors on biosensing research in the last 2 years. An overview of designs for bioreceptor attachment to micro/nanomotors is given. Recent developments have focused on chemically propelled micromotors using external fuels, commonly hydrogen peroxide. However, the associated fuel toxicity and inconvenience of use in relevant biological samples such as blood have prompted researchers to explore new micro/nanomotor biosensing approaches based on biocompatible propulsion sources such as magnetic or ultrasound fields. The main advances in biocompatible propulsion sources for micro/nanomotors as novel biosensing platforms are discussed and grouped by their propulsion-driven forces. The relevant analytical applications are discussed and representatively illustrated. Moreover, envisioning future biosensing applications, the principal advantages of micro/nanomotor synthesis using biocompatible and biodegradable materials are given. The review concludes with a realistic drawing on the present and future perspectives.
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13
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Li Q, Liu L, Huo H, Su L, Wu Y, Lin H, Ge X, Mu J, Zhang X, Zheng L, Song J. Nanosized Janus AuNR-Pt Motor for Enhancing NIR-II Photoacoustic Imaging of Deep Tumor and Pt 2+ Ion-Based Chemotherapy. ACS NANO 2022; 16:7947-7960. [PMID: 35536639 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c00732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic micro/nanomotors have great potential in deep tissue imaging and in vivo drug delivery because of their active motion ability. However, applying nanomotors with a size less than 100 nm to in vivo imaging and therapy is one of the core changes in this field. Herein, a nanosized hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-driven Janus gold nanorod-platinum (JAuNR-Pt) nanomotor is developed for enhancing the second near-infrared region (NIR-II) photoacoustic (PA) imaging of deep tissues of tumors and for effective tumor treatment. The JAuNR-Pt nanomotor is prepared by depositing platinum (Pt) on one end of a gold nanorod with varying proportions of Pt shell coverage, including 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. The JAuNR-Pt nanomotor with Pt shell coverage proportions of 50% exhibits the highest diffusion coefficient (De), and it can rapidly move in the presence of H2O2. The self-propulsion of JAuNR-Pt nanomotor enhances cellular uptake, accelerates lysosomal escape, and facilitates continuous release of cytotoxic Pt2+ ions to the nucleus, causing DNA damage and cell apoptosis. The JAuNR-Pt nanomotor presents deep penetration and enhanced accumulation in tumors as well as high tumor treatment effect. Therefore, this work displays deep tumor imaging and an excellent antitumor effect, providing an effective tool for accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Li
- Fujian Science & Technology Innovation Laboratory for Optoelectronic Information of China, MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, College of Chemistry, College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Luntao Liu
- Fujian Science & Technology Innovation Laboratory for Optoelectronic Information of China, MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, College of Chemistry, College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Hongqi Huo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Han Dan Central Hospital, Handan, Hebei 056001, P. R. China
| | - Lichao Su
- Fujian Science & Technology Innovation Laboratory for Optoelectronic Information of China, MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, College of Chemistry, College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Ying Wu
- Fujian Science & Technology Innovation Laboratory for Optoelectronic Information of China, MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, College of Chemistry, College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Hongxin Lin
- College of Photonic and Electronic Engineering, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350007 P. R. China
| | - Xiaoguang Ge
- Fujian Science & Technology Innovation Laboratory for Optoelectronic Information of China, MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, College of Chemistry, College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Jing Mu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, P. R. China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Fujian Science & Technology Innovation Laboratory for Optoelectronic Information of China, MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, College of Chemistry, College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Liting Zheng
- Fujian Science & Technology Innovation Laboratory for Optoelectronic Information of China, MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, College of Chemistry, College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Jibin Song
- Fujian Science & Technology Innovation Laboratory for Optoelectronic Information of China, MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, College of Chemistry, College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
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14
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Chen Q, Tang S, Li Y, Cong Z, Lu D, Yang Q, Zhang X, Wu S. Multifunctional Metal-Organic Framework Exoskeletons Protect Biohybrid Sperm Microrobots for Active Drug Delivery from the Surrounding Threats. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:58382-58392. [PMID: 34860489 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c18597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Utilizing spermatozoa as the engine unit of robotic systems at a microscale has brought revolutionized inspirations and strategies to the biomedical community. However, the motility of sperms is impaired by the surrounding threats. For example, the antisperm antibody (AsA) can specifically bind with surface antigens on the sperm membrane and adversely affect their propulsion, hindering the operation of sperm-based microrobots in practical environments. In the present work, we report a biohybrid sperm microrobot by encapsulating sperm cells within metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanoparticles (NPs) (ZIFSpermbot), capable of active drug delivery and cytoprotection from the biological threats of AsA. ZIF-8 NPs can be facilely coated on the sperm membrane through complexation with tannic acid. Such cell surface engineering has a negligible impact on sperm motility under optimized conditions. The selective permeability of the resulting porous ZIF-8 wrappings protects ZIFSpermbots from the specific binding of AsA, enabling the preservation of intrinsic propulsion of the sperm engine. Besides, ZIF-8 wrappings sustainably release zinc ions and attenuate the oxidative damage generated in sperm cells, allowing the maintenance of sperm movement. Combining the effective protection of sperm propulsion with the drug-loading capacity of ZIF-8 NPs provides new applicability to ZIFSpermbots in risky surroundings with AsA, exhibiting rapid migration in a microfluidic device for active drug delivery with enhanced therapeutic efficacy due to their retained effective propulsion. Imparting bioengine-based microrobots with multifunctional wrappings holds great promise for designing adaptive cell robots that endure harsh environments toward locally extended and diverse operations, facilitating their use in practical and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwei Chen
- Teaching Center of Shenzhen Luohu Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515000, P. R. China
- Shenzhen Following Precision Medical Research Institute, Luohu Hospital Group, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
| | - Songsong Tang
- Shenzhen Following Precision Medical Research Institute, Luohu Hospital Group, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
| | - Yangyang Li
- Shenzhen Following Precision Medical Research Institute, Luohu Hospital Group, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoqing Cong
- Shenzhen Following Precision Medical Research Institute, Luohu Hospital Group, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
| | - Dongdong Lu
- Shenzhen Following Precision Medical Research Institute, Luohu Hospital Group, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
| | - Qingxin Yang
- Shenzhen Following Precision Medical Research Institute, Luohu Hospital Group, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
| | - Xueji Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, P. R. China
| | - Song Wu
- Teaching Center of Shenzhen Luohu Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515000, P. R. China
- Shenzhen Following Precision Medical Research Institute, Luohu Hospital Group, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
- Institute of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, P. R. China
- Department of Urology, South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518116, P. R. China
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15
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Feng W, Huang Z, Kang X, Zhao D, Li H, Li G, Xu J, Wang X. Self-Assembled Nanosized Vehicles from Amino Acid-Based Amphiphilic Polymers with Pendent Carboxyl Groups for Efficient Drug Delivery. Biomacromolecules 2021; 22:4871-4882. [PMID: 34636237 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c01164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Developing safe and efficient delivery vehicles for chemotherapeutic drugs has been a long-standing demanding. Amino acid-based polymers are promising candidates to address this challenge due to their excellent biocompatibility and biodegradation. Herein, a series of well-defined amphiphilic block copolymers were prepared by PET-RAFT polymerization of N-acryloyl amino acid monomers. By altering monomer types and the block ratio of the copolymers, the copolymers self-assembled into nanostructures with various morphologies, including spheres, rod-like, fibers, and lamellae via hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions. Significantly, the nanoparticles (NPs) assembled from amphiphilic block copolymers poly(N-acryloyl-valine)-b-poly(N-acryloyl-aspartic acid) (PV-b-PD) displayed an appealing cargo loading efficiency (21.8-32.6%) for a broad range of drugs (paclitaxel, doxorubicin (DOX), cisplatin, etc.) due to strong interactions. The DOX-loaded PV-b-PD NPs exhibited rapid cellular uptake (within 1 min) and a great therapeutic performance. These drug delivery systems provide new insights for regulating the controlled morphologies and improving the efficiency of drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Zixuan Huang
- Cluster for Advanced Macromolecular Design and Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, School of Chemical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Xiaoxu Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Dongdong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Haofei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Guofeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Jiangtao Xu
- Cluster for Advanced Macromolecular Design and Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, School of Chemical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Xing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
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16
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Boddu SHS, Bhagav P, Karla PK, Jacob S, Adatiya MD, Dhameliya TM, Ranch KM, Tiwari AK. Polyamide/Poly(Amino Acid) Polymers for Drug Delivery. J Funct Biomater 2021; 12:58. [PMID: 34698184 PMCID: PMC8544418 DOI: 10.3390/jfb12040058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Polymers have always played a critical role in the development of novel drug delivery systems by providing the sustained, controlled and targeted release of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs. Among the different polymers, polyamides or poly(amino acid)s exhibit distinct features such as good biocompatibility, slow degradability and flexible physicochemical modification. The degradation rates of poly(amino acid)s are influenced by the hydrophilicity of the amino acids that make up the polymer. Poly(amino acid)s are extensively used in the formulation of chemotherapeutics to achieve selective delivery for an appropriate duration of time in order to lessen the drug-related side effects and increase the anti-tumor efficacy. This review highlights various poly(amino acid) polymers used in drug delivery along with new developments in their utility. A thorough discussion on anticancer agents incorporated into poly(amino acid) micellar systems that are under clinical evaluation is included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai H. S. Boddu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Prakash Bhagav
- Advanced Drug Delivery Research and Development, Sampann Research and Development, Panacea Biotec Ltd., Ambala, Chandigarh Highway, Lalru 140501, India;
| | - Pradeep K. Karla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Howard University, 2300 4th St. N.W., Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Shery Jacob
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman 4184, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Mansi D. Adatiya
- Lallubhai Motilal College of Pharmacy, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380009, India; (M.D.A.); (T.M.D.); (K.M.R.)
| | - Tejas M. Dhameliya
- Lallubhai Motilal College of Pharmacy, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380009, India; (M.D.A.); (T.M.D.); (K.M.R.)
| | - Ketan M. Ranch
- Lallubhai Motilal College of Pharmacy, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380009, India; (M.D.A.); (T.M.D.); (K.M.R.)
| | - Amit K. Tiwari
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates;
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Health Science Campus, The University of Toledo, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614, USA
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17
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Zhang N, Liu W, Dong Z, Yin Y, Luo J, Lu T, Tang W, Wang Y, Han Y. An Integrated Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Polymeric Micelle for Smart Drug Delivery and Effective Drug Release. Bioconjug Chem 2021; 32:2083-2094. [PMID: 34472841 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.1c00385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) responsive polymeric micelles are promising carriers for drug delivery. In order to meet the needs of various applications, multifarious TME-responsive switches are used to construct smart polymeric micelles, which causes the complexity and corpulence of the polymeric micelle system and increases the difficulty of preparation. In this study, we designed and synthesized an ingenious TME-responsive switch through grafting disulfide bond-modified piperidinepropionic acid (CPA) on copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(aspartate)(PEG-b-PAsp) and built a novel pH/reduction-responsive PEG-b-PAsp-g-CPA polymeric micelle delivery system. The CPA-pendants can reverse the surface charge of the polymeric micelle from negative to positive at pH 6.5 because of the protonation of piperidine groups, thereby enhancing the internalization of cell. Subsequently, more piperidine groups are protonated at pH 5.0 which will increase the hydrophilicity of polymeric micelles and cause the hydrophobic core to swell, thus making the disulfide bonds packed in the core to be more easily broken by GSH. With the synergistic effect of the pH-triggered protonation of piperidine groups and reduction triggered break of disulfide bonds, the polymeric micelles will disintegrate and achieve efficient intracellular drug release. The TME-responsive polymeric micelles exhibited good biological safety, enhanced internalization, and rapid intracellular doxorubicin (DOX) release in vitro. Moreover, the PEG-b-PAsp-g-CPA/DOX polymeric micelles showed excellent antitumor efficacy and low systemic toxicity in lung tumor-bearing BALB/C mice. These results indicated that the novel integrated TME-responsive switch CPA helps the PEG-b-PAsp-g-CPA polymeric micelles to obtain excellent TME-responsiveness and antitumor drug delivery capabilities, while it also makes the preparation of TME-responsive polymeric micelles simpler and more convenient. This work provides a new idea for the architecture of TME-responsive polymeric micelles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanxia Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Weixing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Zhipeng Dong
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Yunxue Yin
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Jun Luo
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Tao Lu
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Weifang Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Yue Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Yonghu Han
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu Province China
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18
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Adelnia H, Tran HDN, Little PJ, Blakey I, Ta HT. Poly(aspartic acid) in Biomedical Applications: From Polymerization, Modification, Properties, Degradation, and Biocompatibility to Applications. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2021; 7:2083-2105. [PMID: 33797239 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.1c00150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Poly(aspartic acid) (PASP) is an anionic polypeptide that is a highly versatile, biocompatible, and biodegradable polymer that fulfils key requirements for use in a wide variety of biomedical applications. The derivatives of PASP can be readily tailored via the amine-reactive precursor, poly(succinimide) (PSI), which opens up a large window of opportunity for the design and development of novel biomaterials. PASP also has a strong affinity with calcium ions, resulting in complexation, which has been exploited for bone targeting and biomineralization. In addition, recent studies have further verified the biocompatibility and biodegradability of PASP-based polymers, which is attributed to their protein-like structure. In light of growing interest in PASP and its derivatives, this paper presents a comprehensive review on their synthesis, characterization, modification, biodegradation, biocompatibility, and applications in biomedical areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Adelnia
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia.,Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.,School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4012, Australia
| | - Huong D N Tran
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia.,Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia
| | - Peter J Little
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4012, Australia.,Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Queensland 4575, Australia
| | - Idriss Blakey
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia.,Centre for Advanced Imaging, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4067, Australia
| | - Hang T Ta
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia.,Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.,School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 411, Australia
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19
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Yurdabak Karaca G, Kuralay F, Bingol Ozakpinar O, Uygun E, Koc U, Ulusoy S, Bosgelmez Tinaz G, Oksuz L, Uygun Oksuz A. Catalytic Au/PEDOT/Pt micromotors for cancer biomarker detection and potential breast cancer treatment. APPLIED NANOSCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13204-021-01735-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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20
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Niculescu AG, Chircov C, Bîrcă AC, Grumezescu AM. Fabrication and Applications of Microfluidic Devices: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2011. [PMID: 33670545 PMCID: PMC7921936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidics is a relatively newly emerged field based on the combined principles of physics, chemistry, biology, fluid dynamics, microelectronics, and material science. Various materials can be processed into miniaturized chips containing channels and chambers in the microscale range. A diverse repertoire of methods can be chosen to manufacture such platforms of desired size, shape, and geometry. Whether they are used alone or in combination with other devices, microfluidic chips can be employed in nanoparticle preparation, drug encapsulation, delivery, and targeting, cell analysis, diagnosis, and cell culture. This paper presents microfluidic technology in terms of the available platform materials and fabrication techniques, also focusing on the biomedical applications of these remarkable devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelina-Gabriela Niculescu
- Faculty of Engineering in Foreign Languages, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Cristina Chircov
- Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.C.); (A.C.B.)
| | - Alexandra Cătălina Bîrcă
- Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.C.); (A.C.B.)
| | - Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu
- Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.C.); (A.C.B.)
- Research Institute of the University of Bucharest—ICUB, University of Bucharest, 050657 Bucharest, Romania
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21
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Soto F, Karshalev E, Zhang F, Esteban Fernandez de Avila B, Nourhani A, Wang J. Smart Materials for Microrobots. Chem Rev 2021; 122:5365-5403. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c00999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Soto
- Department of Nanoengineering, Chemical Engineering Program and Contextual Robotics Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Emil Karshalev
- Department of Nanoengineering, Chemical Engineering Program and Contextual Robotics Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Fangyu Zhang
- Department of Nanoengineering, Chemical Engineering Program and Contextual Robotics Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Berta Esteban Fernandez de Avila
- Department of Nanoengineering, Chemical Engineering Program and Contextual Robotics Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Amir Nourhani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Mathematics, Biology, Biomimicry Research and Innovation Center, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Joseph Wang
- Department of Nanoengineering, Chemical Engineering Program and Contextual Robotics Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
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22
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Bunea AI, Taboryski R. Recent Advances in Microswimmers for Biomedical Applications. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:E1048. [PMID: 33261101 PMCID: PMC7760273 DOI: 10.3390/mi11121048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Microswimmers are a rapidly developing research area attracting enormous attention because of their many potential applications with high societal value. A particularly promising target for cleverly engineered microswimmers is the field of biomedical applications, where many interesting examples have already been reported for e.g., cargo transport and drug delivery, artificial insemination, sensing, indirect manipulation of cells and other microscopic objects, imaging, and microsurgery. Pioneered only two decades ago, research studies on the use of microswimmers in biomedical applications are currently progressing at an incredibly fast pace. Given the recent nature of the research, there are currently no clinically approved microswimmer uses, and it is likely that several years will yet pass before any clinical uses can become a reality. Nevertheless, current research is laying the foundation for clinical translation, as more and more studies explore various strategies for developing biocompatible and biodegradable microswimmers fueled by in vivo-friendly means. The aim of this review is to provide a summary of the reported biomedical applications of microswimmers, with focus on the most recent advances. Finally, the main considerations and challenges for clinical translation and commercialization are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada-Ioana Bunea
- National Centre for Nano Fabrication and Characterization (DTU Nanolab), Technical University of Denmark, Ørsted Plads 347, 2800 Lyngby, Denmark;
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23
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Aziz A, Pane S, Iacovacci V, Koukourakis N, Czarske J, Menciassi A, Medina-Sánchez M, Schmidt OG. Medical Imaging of Microrobots: Toward In Vivo Applications. ACS NANO 2020; 14:10865-10893. [PMID: 32869971 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c05530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Medical microrobots (MRs) have been demonstrated for a variety of non-invasive biomedical applications, such as tissue engineering, drug delivery, and assisted fertilization, among others. However, most of these demonstrations have been carried out in in vitro settings and under optical microscopy, being significantly different from the clinical practice. Thus, medical imaging techniques are required for localizing and tracking such tiny therapeutic machines when used in medical-relevant applications. This review aims at analyzing the state of the art of microrobots imaging by critically discussing the potentialities and limitations of the techniques employed in this field. Moreover, the physics and the working principle behind each analyzed imaging strategy, the spatiotemporal resolution, and the penetration depth are thoroughly discussed. The paper deals with the suitability of each imaging technique for tracking single or swarms of MRs and discusses the scenarios where contrast or imaging agent's inclusion is required, either to absorb, emit, or reflect a determined physical signal detected by an external system. Finally, the review highlights the existing challenges and perspective solutions which could be promising for future in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azaam Aziz
- Institute for Integrative Nanosciences, Leibniz IFW Dresden, Helmholtzstrasse 20, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefano Pane
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa 56025, Italy
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Veronica Iacovacci
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa 56025, Italy
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Nektarios Koukourakis
- Chair of Measurement and Sensor System Technique, School of Engineering, TU Dresden, Helmholtzstrasse 18, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Biomedical Computational Laser Systems, TU Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Jürgen Czarske
- Chair of Measurement and Sensor System Technique, School of Engineering, TU Dresden, Helmholtzstrasse 18, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Biomedical Computational Laser Systems, TU Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Arianna Menciassi
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa 56025, Italy
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Mariana Medina-Sánchez
- Institute for Integrative Nanosciences, Leibniz IFW Dresden, Helmholtzstrasse 20, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Oliver G Schmidt
- Institute for Integrative Nanosciences, Leibniz IFW Dresden, Helmholtzstrasse 20, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Materials, Architectures, and Integration of Nanomembranes (MAIN), TU Chemnitz, Reichenhainer Strasse 10, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany
- School of Science, TU Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
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24
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Choi H, Cho SH, Hahn SK. Urease-Powered Polydopamine Nanomotors for Intravesical Therapy of Bladder Diseases. ACS NANO 2020; 14:6683-6692. [PMID: 32491832 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b09726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Intravesical therapeutic delivery has been extensively investigated for various bladder diseases such as bladder cancer, overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, and interstitial cystitis. However, conventional drug carriers have a low therapeutic delivery efficiency because of the passive diffusion of drug molecules in a bladder and the rapid clearance by periodic urination. Here, we report biocompatible and bioavailable enzyme-powered polymer nanomotors which can deeply penetrate into a mucosa layer of the bladder wall and remain for a long-term period in the bladder. The successful fabrication of nanomotors was confirmed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray mapping, zeta-potential analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and urease activity and nanomotor trajectory analyses. After injection into the bladder, urease-immobilized nanomotors became active, moving around in the bladder by converting urea into carbon dioxide and ammonia. The nanomotors resulted in the facilitated penetration to the mucosa layer of the bladder wall and the prolonged retention in the bladder even after repeated urination. The enhanced penetration and retention of the nanomotors as a drug delivery carrier in the bladder would be successfully harnessed for treating a variety of bladder diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunsik Choi
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea
| | - Seong Hwi Cho
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea
| | - Sei Kwang Hahn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea
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Mandsberg NK, Christfort JF, Kamguyan K, Boisen A, Srivastava SK. Orally ingestible medical devices for gut engineering. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2020; 165-166:142-154. [PMID: 32416112 PMCID: PMC7255201 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Orally ingestible medical devices provide significant advancement for diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) tract-related conditions. From micro- to macroscale devices, with designs ranging from very simple to complex, these medical devices can be used for site-directed drug delivery in the GI tract, real-time imaging and sensing of gut biomarkers. Equipped with uni-direction release, or self-propulsion, or origami design, these microdevices are breaking the barriers associated with drug delivery, including biologics, across the GI tract. Further, on-board microelectronics allow imaging and sensing of gut tissue and biomarkers, providing a more comprehensive understanding of underlying pathophysiological conditions. We provide an overview of recent advances in orally ingestible medical devices towards drug delivery, imaging and sensing. Challenges associated with gut microenvironment, together with various activation/actuation modalities of medical devices for micromanipulation of the gut are discussed. We have critically examined the relationship between materials–device design–pharmacological responses with respect to existing regulatory guidelines and provided a clear roadmap for the future.
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26
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Tertis M, Cernat A, Mirel S, Cristea C. Nanodevices for Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications. ANAL LETT 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/00032719.2020.1728292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Tertis
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andreea Cernat
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Simona Mirel
- Department of Medical Devices, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cecilia Cristea
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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27
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Micro and nanoscale technologies in oral drug delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2020; 157:37-62. [PMID: 32707147 PMCID: PMC7374157 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Oral administration is a pillar of the pharmaceutical industry and yet it remains challenging to administer hydrophilic therapeutics by the oral route. Smart and controlled oral drug delivery could bypass the physiological barriers that limit the oral delivery of these therapeutics. Micro- and nanoscale technologies, with an unprecedented ability to create, control, and measure micro- or nanoenvironments, have found tremendous applications in biology and medicine. In particular, significant advances have been made in using these technologies for oral drug delivery. In this review, we briefly describe biological barriers to oral drug delivery and micro and nanoscale fabrication technologies. Micro and nanoscale drug carriers fabricated using these technologies, including bioadhesives, microparticles, micropatches, and nanoparticles, are described. Other applications of micro and nanoscale technologies are discussed, including fabrication of devices and tissue engineering models to precisely control or assess oral drug delivery in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Strategies to advance translation of micro and nanotechnologies into clinical trials for oral drug delivery are mentioned. Finally, challenges and future prospects on further integration of micro and nanoscale technologies with oral drug delivery systems are highlighted.
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28
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Sonntag L, Simmchen J, Magdanz V. Nano-and Micromotors Designed for Cancer Therapy. Molecules 2019; 24:E3410. [PMID: 31546857 PMCID: PMC6767050 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24183410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Research on nano- and micromotors has evolved into a frequently cited research area with innovative technology envisioned for one of current humanities' most deadly problems: cancer. The development of cancer targeting drug delivery strategies involving nano-and micromotors has been a vibrant field of study over the past few years. This review aims at categorizing recent significant results, classifying them according to the employed propulsion mechanisms starting from chemically driven micromotors, to field driven and biohybrid approaches. In concluding remarks of section 2, we give an insight into shape changing micromotors that are envisioned to have a significant contribution. Finally, we critically discuss which important aspects still have to be addressed and which challenges still lie ahead of us.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Sonntag
- Chair of Physical Chemistry, TU Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Juliane Simmchen
- Chair of Physical Chemistry, TU Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany.
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Augustine R, Kalva N, Kim HA, Zhang Y, Kim I. pH-Responsive Polypeptide-Based Smart Nano-Carriers for Theranostic Applications. Molecules 2019; 24:E2961. [PMID: 31443287 PMCID: PMC6719039 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24162961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Smart nano-carriers have attained great significance in the biomedical field due to their versatile and interesting designs with different functionalities. The initial stages of the development of nanocarriers mainly focused on the guest loading efficiency, biocompatibility of the host and the circulation time. Later the requirements of less side effects with more efficacy arose by attributing targetability and stimuli-responsive characteristics to nano-carriers along with their bio- compatibility. Researchers are utilizing many stimuli-responsive polymers for the better release of the guest molecules at the targeted sites. Among these, pH-triggered release achieves increasing importance because of the pH variation in different organ and cancer cells of acidic pH. This specific feature is utilized to release the guest molecules more precisely in the targeted site by designing polymers having specific functionality with the pH dependent morphology change characteristics. In this review, we mainly concert on the pH-responsive polypeptides and some interesting nano-carrier designs for the effective theranostic applications. Also, emphasis is made on pharmaceutical application of the different nano-carriers with respect to the organ, tissue and cellular level pH environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimesh Augustine
- BK 21 PLUS Center for Advanced Chemical Technology, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Nagendra Kalva
- BK 21 PLUS Center for Advanced Chemical Technology, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Ho An Kim
- BK 21 PLUS Center for Advanced Chemical Technology, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Yu Zhang
- BK 21 PLUS Center for Advanced Chemical Technology, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Il Kim
- BK 21 PLUS Center for Advanced Chemical Technology, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea.
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