Bio-mediated synthesis of 5-FU based nanoparticles employing orange fruit juice: a novel drug delivery system to treat skin fibrosarcoma in model animals

Unlocking the Anticancer Potential of Frankincense Essential Oils (FEOs) Through Nanotechnology: A Review

Cancer is a group of heterogeneous diseases that occur when cells in the body proliferate and divide uncontrollably. As the current treatment modalities have pros and cons, the discovery of new chemotherapeutic agents with the least side effects is one of the most investigated research areas. In this context, plant-based natural products are a rich source of drugs and have served humanity for ages. Frankincense essential oils (FEOs) are among the most promising plant-based oils in Gulf countries. In addition to their high cultural value, FEOs are also famous for their engaging biological activities, including anti-cancerous. However, the practical application of FEOs is often hindered/by their low water solubility, limited bioavailability, high volatility, and sensitivity toward heat, humidity, light, or oxygen. Thus, a significant demand for technological advancement would improve their ability to target particular cells and tissues. Nanotechnology emerged as an exciting approach in this context. Through suitable nano-formulation (functionalization or encapsulation into a nanostructure), issues arising due to solubility, targeting capability, and delivery can be controlled.

Design of novel polyurethane-based ionene nanocarriers for cancer therapy: Synthesis, in-vitro, and in-vivo studies

New strategies for constructing versatile nanocarriers are needed for cancer therapy to overcome the multiple challenges of targeted delivery. This work explores the advantages of polyurethane with main-chain quaternary ammonium salt moieties (ionene) as a novel carrier for targeted drug delivery. We have developed a novel cationic soybean oil-based polyurethane ionene nanocarrier (CPUI) that can act as an effective anticancer agent and efficiently deliver the anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil (5FU). We also report a potential anticancer drug delivery system targeting the folate receptor. In vitro experiments with blank CPUI carriers on the 4T1 (mouse breast cancer cell line) and the NIH-3T3 (mouse fibroblast cell line) revealed high cytotoxicity for the cancer cells but only low cytotoxicity for the normal fibroblast cells. The CPUI nanoparticles were readily loaded with 5FU (5FU-CPUI) in water using electrostatic interactions between the cationic quaternary ammonium groups of ionene and the anionic 5FU. The in vivo study in mice with tumors showed that the blank CPUI carriers significantly inhibited tumor growth, even more than the free drug (5FU). The inhibitory effect on tumor growth was slightly enhanced when the carriers were loaded with 5FU. The prepared nanoparticles had a high loading capacity of 41.8 %. Further enhancement of the inhibitory effect was observed when folic acid (FA) was added as a targeting moiety to the system via ion exchange with the bromine counterion of the quaternary ammonium moieties. The results suggest that the efficacy of FA-CPUI-5FU nanoparticles as vehicles for drug delivery can be enhanced via folate receptor (FR) mediated endocytosis in 4T1 cells and these novel nanocarriers may provide a potential platform for effective targeted drug delivery to tumor tissue and breast cancer therapy in the clinic.

Anticancer Phytochemical-Based Nanoformulations: Therapeutic Intervention in Cancer Cell Lines

Phytochemicals have the potential to treat resistant cancer. They are delivered to the target site via nano-based carriers. Promising results are seen in preclinical and in vitro models, as phytochemical-based nanoformulations have improved cell cytotoxicity compared to single agents. They can synergistically inhibit cancer cell growth through p53 apoptosis in MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. Moreover, synergic viability in reproducible glioma models at half inhibitory concentrations has been shown. Through caspase activation, phytochemical-based nanoformulations also increase cell death in 4T1 breast cancer cell lines. They have shown improved cytotoxicity at half inhibitory concentrations compared to single-agent drugs in cervical cancer. In terms of colorectal cancer, they have the potential to arrest cells in the S phase of the cell cycle and synergistically inhibit cell proliferation. In squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, they inhibit protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways. This review reports on developments in the therapeutic management of various cancers using phytochemical-based nanoformulations, which have shown potential benefits in the clinical management of cancer patients, halting/slowing the progression of the disease and ameliorating chemotherapy-induced toxicities.

Chitosan/Gamma-Alumina/Fe3O4@5-FU Nanostructures as Promising Nanocarriers: Physiochemical Characterization and Toxicity Activity

Today, cancer treatment is an important issue in the medical world due to the challenges and side effects of ongoing treatment procedures. Current methods can be replaced with targeted nano-drug delivery systems to overcome such side effects. In the present work, an intelligent nano-system consisting of Chitosan (Ch)/Gamma alumina (γAl)/Fe3O4 and 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) was synthesized and designed for the first time in order to influence the Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) cell line in the treatment of breast cancer. Physico-chemical characterization of the nanocarriers was carried out using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM analysis revealed smooth and homogeneous spherical nanoparticles. The high stability of the nanoparticles and their narrow size distribution was confirmed by DLS. The results of the loading study demonstrated that these nano-systems cause controlled, stable, and pH-sensitive release in cancerous environments with an inactive targeting mechanism. Finally, the results of MTT and flow cytometry tests indicated that this nano-system increased the rate of apoptosis induction on cancerous masses and could be an effective alternative to current treatments.

Analytical and bioanalytical HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of 5-fluorouracil and sonidegib

Aim: To develop a new sensitive RP-HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and sonidegib (SDG). Materials & methods: Analytical and bioanalytical methods for simultaneous quantification of 5-FU and SDG in bulk, nanoformulations and in rat plasma were developed and validated using a gradient elution technique. Results: Separation of the analytes was effected on a Luna^® C18 LC column using a mobile mixture comprising acetonitrile and acidified water. 5-FU and SDG were extracted from plasma matrix using liquid-liquid extraction. The applicability of the method was verified through single-dose oral pharmacokinetic study in Wistar rats. Conclusion: The developed methods allow a specific, sensitive and steady analytical procedure for the simultaneous estimation of 5-FU and SDG in nanoformulations and biological matrix.

Anticancer activity of limonene: A systematic review of target signaling pathways

Limonene (LIM) is a monoterpene, which is abundant in essential oils of Citrus fruits peels (Rutaceae). More recently, LIM, as a potential natural anticancer compound, has attracted major attention and exerted a chemopreventive activity, stimulating the detoxification of carcinogenic compounds and limiting tumor growth and angiogenesis in various cancer models. Twenty-six (26) articles were selected based on previously established criteria. Anticancer activity of LIM was related to the inhibition of tumor initiation, growth, and angiogenesis and the induction of cancer cells apoptosis. LIM was able to increase Bax expression, release cytochrome c, and activate the caspase pathway. In addition, LIM increased the expression of p53 and decreased the activity of Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK and PI3K/Akt pathways. LIM also decreased the expression of VEGF and increased the activities of the Man-6-P / IGF2R and TGF-βIIR receptors. These results highlight LIM as an abundant natural molecule with low toxicity and pleiotropic pharmacological activity in cancer cells, targeting various cell-signaling pathways critically involved in the initiation, growth, and chemoresistance of cancer cells.

Pluronic-Coated Biogenic Gold Nanoparticles for Colon Delivery of 5-Fluorouracil: In vitro and Ex vivo Studies

The aim of the study was to prepare 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-loaded biogenic gold nanoparticles with pluronic-based coating (PFGNPs), their optimization (full factorial predicted OBPN-1) and in vitro-ex vivo evaluation. Several formulations were prepared, selected for optimization using Design Expert®, and compared for morphology, 5-FU release kinetics, compatibility, cell line toxicity, in vitro hemocompatibility, and ex vivo intestinal permeation across the rat duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. The pluronic-coated 5-FU-carrying GNPs were spherical, 29.11-178.21 nm in diameter, with a polydispersity index (PDI) range of 0.191-292, and a zeta potential (ZP) range of 11.19-29.21 (-mV). The optimized OBPN-1 (desirability = 0.95) demonstrated optimum size (175.1 nm), %DL as 73.8%, ZP as 21.7 mV, % drug release (DR) as 75.7%, and greater cytotoxicity (viability ~ 8.9%) against the colon cancer cell lines than 5-FU solution (~ 24.91%), and less hemocompatibility. Moreover, OBPN-1 exhibited 4.5-fold permeation across the rat jejunum compared with 5-FU solution. Thus, the PFGNPs exhibit high DL capacity, sustained delivery, hemocompatibility, improved efficacy, and enhanced permeation profiles compared with 5-FU solution and several other NPs preparations suggesting it is a promising formulation for effective colon cancer control with reduced side effects.

H. El-kannishy S, Gardouh AR, K. Tawfik M, Faisal S, El-Mistekawy A, Salama A, Alomar SY, H. Eltrawy A, Yagub Aloyouni S, Zaitone SA. Chemopreventive Effect of 5-Flurouracil Polymeric Hybrid PLGA-Lecithin Nanoparticles against Colon Dysplasia Model in Mice and Impact on p53 Apoptosis

The use of 5-fluorouracil (5FU) is associated with multifaceted challenges and poor pharmacokinetics. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-lipid hybrid nanoparticles (PLNs)-based therapy has received attention as efficient carriers for a diversity of drugs. This study evaluated the in vivo chemotherapeutic and anti-proliferative efficacy of 5FU-loaded PLNs against 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (Di-MH) prompted colon dysplasia in mice compared to free 5FU. 5FU PLNs were prepared. Male Swiss albino mice were distributed to six experimental groups. Group 1: Saline group. All the other groups were injected weekly with Di-MH [20 mg/kg, s.c.]. Group 2: Di-MH induced colon dysplasia control group. Groups 3 and 4: Di-MH + free 5FU treated group [2.5 and 5 mg/kg]. Groups 5 and 6: Di-MH + 5FU-PLNs treated group [2.5 and 5 mg/kg]. Free 5FU and 5FU-PLNs doses were administered orally, twice weekly. Treatment with 5FU-PLNs induced a higher cytoprotective effect compared to free 5FU as indicated by lower mucosal histopathologic score and reduction in number of Ki-67 immunpositive proliferating nuclei. Additionally, there was significant upregulation of p53 and caspase 3 genes in colon specimens. Our results support the validity of utilizing the PLNs technique to improve the chemopreventive action of 5FU in treating colon cancer.

5-Fluorouracil Loaded Biogenic and Albumin Capped Gold Nanoparticles Using Bacterial Enzyme—In Vitro-In Silico Gastroplus® Simulation and Prediction

The study investigated in situ biosynthesis of albumin capped 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) loaded gold nanoparticles (NPs) using bacterial extract for enhanced efficacy against MCF-7 and in silico prediction using a GastroPlus® software. The optimized formulations were characterized for morphology, size, zeta potential, drug loading (%DL) and entrapment (%EE), compatibility, in vitro drug release, in vitro hemolysis, cellular toxicity and apoptosis studies. The results exhibited highly dispersed albumin capped mono-metallic stable NPs. Spherical size, negative zeta potential and polydispersity index were in range of 38.25–249.62 nm, 18.18–29.87 mV and 0.11–0.283, respectively. F11, F7 and F3 showed a progressive increase in %DL and %EE with increased concentration of the cellular lysate (100% > 50% > 10%). The drug release was relatively extended over 48 h as compared to drug solution (96.64% release within 5 h). The hemolysis result ensured hemocompatibility (<14%) at the explored concentration. The biogenic F11 was more cytotoxic (81.99% inhibition by F11 and 72.04% by pure 5-FU) to the MCF-7 cell lines as compared to others which may be attributed to the preferential accumulation by the tumor cell and capped albumin as the source of energy to the cancer cells. Finally, GastroPlus® predicted the key factors responsible for improved pharmacokinetics parameters and regional absorption from various segments of human intestine. Thus, the approach can be more efficacious and suitable to control breast cancer when administered transdermally or orally.

Canine Primary Corneal Fibrosarcoma - Case Report

This is the first report of a primary corneal fibrosarcoma in a canine. A 4-year-old male dog, Blue Heeler, owas examined because of a reddish nodular mass in the right eye. A complete ophthalmic exam was conducted, including slit-lamp biomicroscopy, applanation tonometry, fundoscopy, ocular and abdominal ultrasound, hemogram, serum biochemistry profile, and a thoracic X-ray. After the ophthalmic evaluation of the right eye, conjunctival hyperemia and the presence of a .5 cm diameter mass was found in the cornea. The diagnosis of fibrosarcoma was confirmed by histopathological analysis. The keratectomy showed satisfactory results in the removal of the corneal fibrosarcoma. The patient was followed up on for 18 months after the surgical procedure, and there were not any signs of local recurrence or metastasis.

Bioactive Gum Arabic/κ-Carrageenan-Incorporated Nano-Hydroxyapatite Nanocomposites and Their Relative Biological Functionalities in Bone Tissue Engineering

The present frontiers of bone tissue engineering are being pushed by novel biomaterials that exhibit phenomenal biocompatibility and adequate mechanical strength. In this work, we fabricated a ternary system incorporating nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA)/gum arabic (GA)/κ-carrageenan (κ-CG) with varying concentrations, i.e., 60/30/10 (CHG1), 60/20/20 (CHG2), and 60/10/30 (CHG3). A binary system with n-HA and GA was also prepared with a ratio of 60/40 (HG) and compared with the ternary system. A rapid mineralization of the apatite layer was observed for the ternary systems after incubation in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 15 days as corroborated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). CHG2 exhibited the maximum apatite layer deposition. Further, the nanocomposites were physicochemically analyzed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and mechanical testing. Their results revealed a substantial interaction among the components, appropriate crystallinity, and significantly enhanced compressive strength and modulus for the ternary nanocomposites. The greatest mechanical strength was achieved by the scaffold containing equal amounts of GA and κ-CG. The cytotoxicity was evaluated by culturing osteoblast-like MG63 cells, which exhibited the highest cell viability for the CHG2 nanocomposite system. It was further supported by confocal microscopy, which revealed the maximum cell proliferation for the CHG2 scaffold. In addition, enhanced antibacterial activity, protein adsorption, biodegradability, and osteogenic differentiation were observed for the ternary nanocomposites. Osteogenic gene markers, such as osteocalcin (OCN), osteonectin (ON), and osteopontin (OPN), were present in higher quantities in the CHG2 and CHG3 nanocomposites as confirmed by western blotting. These results substantiated the pertinence of n-HA-, GA-, and κ-CG-incorporated ternary systems to bone implant materials.

A Study on Serological Reactivity Profile of Different Antigen Preparations with Bancroftian filariasis Human Infection Sera

BACKGROUND

Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) is one of the incapacitating and mosquito-borne sicknesses that on progression may prompt a few recognizable types of clutters like extreme lymphedema, hydrocele, and elephantiasis.

METHODS

Antigenic preparations of B. malayi adult (BmA), S. cervi adult parasites and microfilariae (mf) total parasite extract were used to analyze the serological reactivity profile with human infectious sera collected from endemic areas of Bancroftian filariasis by performing Western blot and ELISA analysis. Sera from healthy human subjects were also included in the study to determine the variation incurred in the reactivity due to the filariasis infection. Gelelectrophoresis analysis of the crude-extract of BmA revealed seven protein bands while more than ten bands were recognized in S. cervi.

RESULTS

our results represent a clear variation in protein patterns among the crude-antigens. ELISA results showed highest prevalence of IgG, IgM and IgG4 antibodies against all antigen preparations when recorded among microfilaraemic chronic infected patients. In both the antigenic preparations, the positive reactions were in the order of microfilaraemic>endemic normal>chronic>acute>nonendemic normal subjects. All sera of Mf+ patients were uniformly positive, while sera of both chronic and endemic normal subjects showed less reactivity.

CONCLUSION

In the present study, we endeavoured to establish the extent of cross-reactivity of antigens derived from animal filarial parasites such as B. malayi and S. cervi with W. bancrofti filariasis sera of human patients. Besides, we further analyzed antibody-isotype profile of IgG, IgG4 and IgM in various human infection sera of bancroftian filarial subjects reactive to heterologous parasite antigens derived from adult worms of S. cervi from bovine and B. malayi from bovine and jirds.

Nanoparticles for topical drug delivery: Potential for skin cancer treatment

Nanoparticles offer new opportunities for the treatment of skin diseases. The barrier function of the skin poses a significant challenge for nanoparticles to permeate into the tissue, although the barrier is partially compromised in case of injury or inflammation, as in the case of skin cancer. This may facilitate the penetration of nanoparticles. Extensive research has gone into developing nanoparticles for topical delivery; however, relatively little progress has been made in translating them to the clinic for treating skin cancers. We summarize the types of skin cancers and practices in current clinical management. The review provides a comprehensive outlook of the various nanoparticle technologies tested for topical therapy of skin cancers and summarizes the obstacles that impede its progress from the bench-to-bedside. The review also aims to provide an understanding of the pathways that govern nanoparticle penetration into the skin and a critical analysis of the approaches used to study nanoparticle interactions within the tissue.