A glycyrrhetinic acid-iridium(III) conjugate as a theranostic NIR probe for hepatocellular carcinoma with mitochondrial-targeting ability

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major contributor to global mortality rates, but current treatment options have limitations. Advanced theranostics are needed to effectively integrate diagnosis and therapeutic of HCC. Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) has abundant binding sites with glycyrrhetinic acid receptors (GA-Rs) on the surface of HCC cells and has also been reported to possess ligands with mitochondrial-targeting capability but with limited efficacy. Herein, we report a near-infrared (NIR) luminescent theranostic complex 1 through conjugating an iridium(III) complex to GA, which exhibits the desired photophysical properties and promotes mitochondrial-targeting capability. Complex 1 was selectively taken up by HepG2 liver cancer cells and was imaged within mitochondria with NIR emission. Complex 1 targeted mitochondria and opened mitochondrial permeability transition pores (MPTPs), resulting in ROS accumulation, mitochondrial damage, disruption of Bax/Bcl-2 equilibrium, and tumor cell apoptosis, resulting in significantly improved anticancer activity compared to GA. This work offers a methodology for developing multifunctional theranostic probes with amplified specificity and efficacy.

Dual targeting of Mg/N doped-carbon quantum dots with folic and hyaluronic acid for targeted drug delivery and cell imaging

Mg/N doped-carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with dual drug targeting and cell imaging properties was synthesized. Mg/N doped-CQDs synthesized by a hydrothermal method. Operating pyrolysis parameters such as temperature, time, and pH were optimized to achieve CQDs with high quantum yield (QY). This CQD applied in cellular imaging. For the first time, dual active targeting of Mg/N doped CQDs performed using folic acid and hyaluronic acid (CQD-FA-HA). Then, epirubicin (EPI) loaded on this nanocarrier as the final complex (CQD-FA-HA-EPI). Cytotoxicity analysis, cellular uptake, and cell photography performed for the complex on three cell lines, including 4T1, MCF-7, and CHO. In vivo studies were performed in BALB/c inbred female mice models bearing breast cancer. Characterization results showed the successful formation of Mg/N doped-CQDs with a high QY of 89.44%. In vitro drug release approved pH dependency of synthesized nanocarrier with a controlled release behavior. Cytotoxicity tests and cellular uptake results demonstrated increased toxicity and absorption into 4T1 and MCF-7 cell lines for targeted nanoparticles compared to free drug. In cell imaging, an increase in the entry of the complex into 4T1 and MCF-7 cells compared to free drug, confirmed the proper function of the synthesized complex. In vivo results indicated that the tumor volume of mice receiving CQD-FA-HA-EPI was the lowest among other studied groups, along with the lowest damage to the liver, spleen, and heart according to the histopathological analysis. Finally, CQD-FA-HA proposed as a novel platform with tumor targeting, drug carrier, and photoluminescence properties.

Nanotechnology: A Potential Weapon to Fight against COVID-19

The COVID-19 infections have posed an unprecedented global health emergency, with nearly three million deaths to date, and have caused substantial economic loss globally. Hence, an urgent exploration of effective and safe diagnostic/therapeutic approaches for minimizing the threat of this highly pathogenic coronavirus infection is needed. As an alternative to conventional diagnosis and antiviral agents, nanomaterials have a great potential to cope with the current or even future health emergency situation with a wide range of applications. Fundamentally, nanomaterials are physically and chemically tunable and can be employed for the next generation nanomaterial-based detection of viral antigens and host antibodies in body fluids as antiviral agents, nanovaccine, suppressant of cytokine storm, nanocarrier for efficient delivery of antiviral drugs at infection site or inside the host cells, and can also be a significant tool for better understanding of the gut microbiome and SARS-CoV-2 interaction. The applicability of nanomaterial-based therapeutic options to cope with the current and possible future pandemic is discussed here.

Nanomedicine in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A New Frontier in Targeted Cancer Treatment

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death and is associated with a dismal median survival of 2-9 months. The fundamental limitations and ineffectiveness of current HCC treatments have led to the development of a vast range of nanotechnologies with the goal of improving the safety and efficacy of treatment for HCC. Although remarkable success has been achieved in nanomedicine research, there are unique considerations such as molecular heterogeneity and concomitant liver dysfunction that complicate the translation of nanotheranostics in HCC. This review highlights the progress, challenges, and targeting opportunities in HCC nanomedicine based on the growing literature in recent years.

Design and Application of Near-Infrared Nanomaterial-Liposome Hybrid Nanocarriers for Cancer Photothermal Therapy

Liposomes are attractive carriers for targeted and controlled drug delivery receiving increasing attention in cancer photothermal therapy. However, the field of creating near-infrared nanomaterial-liposome hybrid nanocarriers (NIRN-Lips) is relatively little understood. The hybrid nanocarriers combine the dual superiority of nanomaterials and liposomes, with more stable particles, enhanced photoluminescence, higher tumor permeability, better tumor-targeted drug delivery, stimulus-responsive drug release, and thus exhibiting better anti-tumor efficacy. Herein, this review covers the liposomes supported various types of near-infrared nanomaterials, including gold-based nanomaterials, carbon-based nanomaterials, and semiconductor quantum dots. Specifically, the NIRN-Lips are described in terms of their feature, synthesis, and drug-release mechanism. The design considerations of NIRN-Lips are highlighted. Further, we briefly introduced the photothermal conversion mechanism of NIRNs and the cell death mechanism induced by photothermal therapy. Subsequently, we provided a brief conclusion of NIRNs-Lips applied in cancer photothermal therapy. Finally, we discussed a synopsis of associated challenges and future perspectives for the applications of NIRN-Lips in cancer photothermal therapy.

Treatment of microvascular invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma with drug-loaded nanocomposite platform under synergistic effect of magnetic field/near-infrared light

Despite progress in clinical treatment, microvascular invasion (MVI) remains a major factor for frequent recurrence and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after liver resection and surgery. Thus, this study constructed a target nanoplatform (αCD97-USPIO-Au-DDP) with magnetic field/near-infrared (NIR) light response using ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide-gold nanoporous spheres (USPIO-Au) as multifunctional nanocarrier. Anticancer drug cisplatin (DDP) was loaded, and specifically expressed CD97 protein in MVI was taken as the therapeutic target. The αCD97-USPIO-Au-DDP showed favorable photothermal and stable properties under the NIR light at 808 nm wavelength. As suggested by in vitro and in vivo research, this composite nanopreparation could effectively reduce damage to normal organs and showed good biocompatibility. Excellent magnetic targeting function of nanocarrier and modification of αCD97 strengthened accumulation of composite nanodrug in tumor to inhibit tumor growth. This system may have important ramifications for treatment of MVI in HCC.

An assessment of in-vitro and in-vivo evaluation methods for theranostic nanomaterials

Nanoparticles (NPs) as nanocarriers have emerged as novel and promising theranostic agents. The term theranostics revealed the properties of NPs capable of diagnosing the disease at an early stage and/or treating the disease. Such NPs are usually developed employing a surface engineering approach. The theranostic agents comprise NPs loaded with a drug/diagnostic agent that delivers it precisely to the target site. Theranostics is a field with promising results in enhancing therapeutic efficacy facilitated through higher payload at the targeted tissue, reduced dose, and dose-dependent side effects. However, controversies in terms of toxicity and size-dependent properties have often surfaced for NPs. Thus, a stringent in-vitro and in-vivo evaluation is required to develop safe and non-toxic NPs as theranostic agents. The review also focuses on the various entry points of NPs in the human system and their outcomes, including toxicity. It elaborates the evaluation criteria to ensure the safe use of NPs for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Nanobased Platforms for Diagnosis and Treatment of COVID-19: From Benchtop to Bedside

Human respiratory viral infections are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality around the world. Among the various respiratory viruses, coronaviruses (e.g., SARS-CoV-2) have created the greatest challenge and most frightening health threat worldwide. Human coronaviruses typically infect the upper respiratory tract, causing illnesses that range from common cold-like symptoms to severe acute respiratory infections. Several promising vaccine formulations have become available since the beginning of 2021. Nevertheless, achievement of herd immunity is still far from being realized. Social distancing remains the only effective measure against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nanobiotechnology enables the design of nanobiosensors. These nanomedical diagnostic devices have opened new vistas for early detection of viral infections. The present review outlines recent research on the effectiveness of nanoplatforms as diagnostic and antiviral tools against coronaviruses. The biological properties of coronavirus and infected host organs are discussed. The challenges and limitations encountered in combating SARS-CoV-2 are highlighted. Potential nanodevices such as nanosensors, nanobased vaccines, and smart nanomedicines are subsequently presented for combating current and future mutated versions of coronaviruses.

Magnetic-gold theranostic nanoagent used for targeting quad modalities T 1 & T 2-MRI/CT/PA imaging and photothermal therapy of tumours

We describe a new type of ultra-small magneto-gold nanoparticle (MGN) with folic acid (FA)-based tumour targeting and multimodal imaging-guided photothermal therapy (PTT) properties that can be used as a theranostic nanoagent. The nanoagent integrates these MGNs–FA with surface modifications, and as expected, is monodisperse, and exhibits small size, strong NIR absorption, photothermal stability, good relaxivity and X-ray absorption coefficient, tumour targeting and excellent biocompatibility. Based on these properties, the nanoagent was successfully tested, both as a photothermal agent for high PTT efficacy and as a multimodality contrast agent for T₁- & T₂-MRI/CT/PA imaging in vitro and in vivo. Notably, the results of in vivo theranostic experiments with these MGNs–FA showed that they are highly effective and safe, indicating that they are efficient and promising theranostic agents that permit comprehensive imaging for diagnosis and therapy.

The schematic diagram of the biofunctionalized magneto-gold nanoparticles as theranostic nanoagents for T₁ & T₂-MRI/CT/PAI quad modalities imaging and PTT therapy of tumours.

Ligand decorated biodegradable nanomedicine in the treatment of cancer

Cancer is one of the major global health problems, responsible for the second-highest number of deaths. The genetic and epigenetic changes in the oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes alter the regulatory pathways leading to its onset and progression. Conventional methods are used in appropriate combinations for the treatment. Surgery effectively treats localized tumors; however, it fails to treat metastatic tumors, leading to a spread in other organs, causing a high recurrence rate and death. Among the different strategies, the nanocarriers-based approach is highly sought for, but its nonspecific delivery can cause a profound side effect on healthy cells. Targeted nanomedicine has the advantage of targeting cancer cells specifically by interacting with the receptors overexpressed on their surface, overcoming its non-specificity to target healthy cells. Nanocarriers prepared from biodegradable and biocompatible materials are decorated with different ligands by encapsulating therapeutic or diagnostic agents or both to target cancer cells overexpressing the receptors. Scientists are now utilizing a theranostic approach to simultaneously evaluate nanocarrier bio-distribution and its effect on the treatment regime. Herein, we have summarized the recent 5-year efforts in the development of the ligands decorated biodegradable nanocarriers, as a targeted nanomedicine approach, which has been highly promising in the treatment of cancer.

Novel engineering: Biomimicking erythrocyte as a revolutionary platform for drugs and vaccines delivery

Over the years, extensive studies on erythrocytes, also known as red blood cells (RBCs), as a mechanism for drug delivery, have been explored mainly because the cell itself is the most abundant and has astonishing properties such as a long life span of 100-120 days, low immunogenicity, good biocompatibility, and flexibility. There are various types of RBC-based systems for drug delivery, including those that are genetically engineered, non-genetically engineered RBCs, as well as employing erythrocyte as nanocarriers for drug loading. Although promising, these systems are still in an early development stage. In this review, we aimed to highlight the development of biomimicking RBC-based drug and vaccine delivery systems, as well as the loading methods with illustrative examples. Drug-erythrocyte associations will also be discussed and highlighted in this review. We have highlighted the possibility of exploiting erythrocytes for the sustained delivery of drugs and vaccines, encapsulation of these biological agents within the erythrocyte or coupling to the surface of carrier erythrocytes, and provided insights on genetically- and non-genetically engineered erythrocytes-based strategies. Erythrocytes have been known as effective cellular carriers for therapeutic moieties for several years. Herein, we outline various loading methods that can be used to reap the benefits of these natural carriers. It has been shown that drugs and vaccines can be delivered via erythrocytes but it is important to select appropriate methods for increasing the drug encapsulated or conjugated on the surface of the erythrocyte membrane. The outlined examples will guide the selection of the most effective method as well as the impact of using erythrocytes as delivery systems for drugs and vaccines.

Fluorescent nanotechnology for in vivo imaging

Fluorescent imaging in living animals gives an intuitive picture of the dynamic processes in the complex environment within a living being. However, animal tissues present a substantial barrier and are opaque to most wavelengths of visible light. Fluorescent nanoparticles (NPs) with new photophysical characteristics have shown excellent performance for in vivo imaging. Hence, fluorescent NPs have been widely studied and applied for the detection of molecular and biological processes in living animals. In addition, developments in the area of nanotechnology have allowed materials to be used in intact animals for disease detection, diagnosis, drug delivery, and treatment. This review provides information on the different types of fluorescent particles based on nanotechnology, describing their unique individual properties and applications for detecting vital processes in vivo. The development and application of new fluorescent NPs will provide opportunities for in vivo imaging with better penetration, sensitivity, and resolution. This article is categorized under: Diagnostic Tools > in vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging.

Smart Stimuli-Responsive Liposomal Nanohybrid Systems: A Critical Review of Theranostic Behavior in Cancer

The epoch of nanotechnology has authorized novel investigation strategies in the area of drug delivery. Liposomes are attractive biomimetic nanocarriers characterized by their biocompatibility, high loading capacity, and their ability to reduce encapsulated drug toxicity. Nevertheless, various limitations including physical instability, lack of site specificity, and low targeting abilities have impeded the use of solo liposomes. Metal nanocarriers are emerging moieties that can enhance the therapeutic activity of many drugs with improved release and targeted potential, yet numerous barriers, such as colloidal instability, cellular toxicity, and poor cellular uptake, restrain their applicability in vivo. The empire of nanohybrid systems has shelled to overcome these curbs and to combine the criteria of liposomes and metal nanocarriers for successful theranostic delivery. Metallic moieties can be embedded or functionalized on the liposomal systems. The current review sheds light on different liposomal-metal nanohybrid systems that were designed as cellular bearers for therapeutic agents, delivering them to their targeted terminus to combat one of the most widely recognized diseases, cancer.

Methods for Intracellular Delivery of Quantum Dots

Quantum dots (QDs) have attracted considerable attention as fluorescent probes for life sciences. The advantages of using QDs in fluorescence-based studies include high brilliance, a narrow emission band allowing multicolor labeling, a chemically active surface for conjugation, and especially, high photostability. Despite these advantageous features, the size of the QDs prevents their free transport across the plasma membrane, limiting their use for specific labeling of intracellular structures. Over the years, various methods have been evaluated to overcome this issue to explore the full potential of the QDs. Thus, in this review, we focused our attention on physical and biochemical QD delivery methods-electroporation, microinjection, cell-penetrating peptides, molecular coatings, and liposomes-discussing the benefits and drawbacks of each strategy, as well as presenting recent studies in the field. We hope that this review can be a useful reference source for researches that already work or intend to work in this area. Strategies for the intracellular delivery of quantum dots discussed in this review (electroporation, microinjection, cell-penetrating peptides, molecular coatings, and liposomes).

Nanocarrier-Based Therapeutics and Theranostics Drug Delivery Systems for Next Generation of Liver Cancer Nanodrug Modalities

The development of therapeutics and theranostic nanodrug delivery systems have posed a challenging task for the current researchers due to the requirement of having various nanocarriers and active agents for better therapy, imaging, and controlled release of drugs efficiently in one platform. The conventional liver cancer chemotherapy has many negative effects such as multiple drug resistance (MDR), high clearance rate, severe side effects, unwanted drug distribution to the specific site of liver cancer and low concentration of drug that finally reaches liver cancer cells. Therefore, it is necessary to develop novel strategies and novel nanocarriers that will carry the drug molecules specific to the affected cancerous hepatocytes in an adequate amount and duration within the therapeutic window. Therapeutics and theranostic systems have advantages over conventional chemotherapy due to the high efficacy of drug loading or drug encapsulation efficiency, high cellular uptake, high drug release, and minimum side effects. These nanocarriers possess high drug accumulation in the tumor area while minimizing toxic effects on healthy tissues. This review focuses on the current research on nanocarrier-based therapeutics and theranostic drug delivery systems excluding the negative consequences of nanotechnology in the field of drug delivery systems. However, clinical developments of theranostics nanocarriers for liver cancer are considered outside of the scope of this article. This review discusses only the recent developments of nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems for liver cancer therapy and diagnosis. The negative consequences of individual nanocarrier in the drug delivery system will also not be covered in this review.

Targeted Inhibitory Effect of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Cells by Hre2.Grp78 Chimeric Promoter Regulating Fusion Gene TK/VP3

Objective:

To construct plasmids with Hre₂.Grp78 chimeric promoter regulating fusion gene TK/VP3 and elaborate the effects of overexpressed TK/VP3 on nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells.

Methods:

Four plasmids were constructed, including pcDNA3.1-CMV-TK/VP3, pcDNA3.1-Hre₂.TK/VP3, pcDNA3.1-Grp78.TK/VP3, and pcDNA3.1-Hre₂.Grp78.TK/VP3. The human nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell line HNE1 cells were transfected with the 4 plasmids, respectively. Cell viabilities were evaluated using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and apoptosis was conducted using flow cytometry analysis. The expression of TK, VP3, Grp78, and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and apoptosis-related proteins was determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting.

Results:

The recombinant plasmids that could steadily overexpress TK and VP3 were successfully constructed. Expression of TK and VP3 in cells transfected with pcDNA3.1-Hre₂.TK/VP3 and pcDNA3.1-Grp78.TK/VP3 was significantly higher than pcDNA3.1-CMV-TK/VP3, and expression in cells transfected with pcDNA3.1-Hre₂.Grp78.TK/VP3 was the highest. Under glucose deprivation or hypoxia condition, Grp78 or hypoxia-inducible factor 1α was overexpressed so that expression of TK and VP3 was significantly upregulated, which could further inhibit cell proliferation and enhance cell apoptosis.

Conclusion:

We successfully constructed 4 plasmids with Hre₂.Grp78 chimeric promoter regulating fusion gene TK/VP3, which could significantly inhibit the proliferation as well as enhance the apoptosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells under glucose deprivation or hypoxia condition.

Folate-conjugated nanovehicles: Strategies for cancer therapy

Cancer theranostics represents a strategy that aims at combining diagnosis with therapy through the simultaneous imaging and targeted delivery of therapeutics to cancer cells. Recently, the folate receptor alpha has emerged as an attractive theranostic target due to its overexpression in multiple solid tumors and its great functional versatility. In fact, it can be incorporated into folate-conjugated nano-systems for imaging and drug delivery. Hence, it can be used along the line of personalized clinical strategies as both an imaging tool and a delivery method ensuring the selective transport of treatments to tumor cells, thus highlighting its theranostic qualities. In this review, we will explore these theranostic characteristics in detail and assess their clinical potential. We will also discuss the technological advances that have allowed the design of sophisticated folate-based nanocarriers harboring various chemical properties and suited for the transport of various therapeutic agents.

Sorafenib encapsulated in nanocarrier functionalized with glypican-3 specific peptide for targeted therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer in the world with increasing incidence. Chemotherapy is required for HCC patients after receiving surgical resection. Serious off-target induced side effects and systemic toxicity limit the clinical utility of drugs. Targeting therapeutic nanomedicine is an innovative strategy for enhancing drug delivery efficiency and reducing side effects. Here, we successfully formulated nanocarriers to encapsulate sorafenib, an FDA approved drug for treatment of HCC. Sorafenib is encapsulated with an entrapment efficiency >80% over 20 days. The effective aqueous solubility is improved over 1900-fold. The release ratio in vitro is characterized by a half-life of T_1/2 = 22.7 h. The peak target-to-background ratio for nanocarrier uptake by tumor occurs at 24 h post-injection, and is significantly greater for the target peptide versus controls. Ex vivo biodistribution confirms the in vivo results. Tumor regression is significantly greater for the target peptide versus controls after 21 days of therapy. No acute toxicity is found by blood chemistry or necropsy. In summary, a peptide specific for GPC3 has been identified, and used to modify the surface of a nanocarrier that encapsulates sorafenib with high entrapment efficiency. Regression of HCC xenograft tumors showed promise for targeted drug delivery.

Hyaluronic acid-modified mesoporous silica-coated superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery

Introduction: The targeted delivery of anti-cancer drugs to tumor tissue has been recognized as a promising strategy to increase their therapeutic efficacy and reduce side effects. Mesoporous silica-coated superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NH2-MSNs), a kind of nanocarrier, can passively enter tumor tissues to enhance the permeability and retention of drugs. However, NH2-MSNs do not specifically bind to cancer cells. This drawback encouraged us to develop a more efficient nanocarrier for cancer therapy.

Methods: Herein, we describe the development of an effective nanocarrier based on NH2-MSNs, which were modified with hyaluronic acid on their surface (HA-MSNs) and loaded with doxorubicin (DOX). We have successfully fabricated uniform spherical HA-MSNs nanocarriers. The targeting ability of this delivery system was evaluated through specific uptake by cells and IVIS imaging.

Results: DOX-HA-MSNs nanocarriers displayed more dramatic cytotoxic activity against 4T1 breast cancer cells compared to GES-1 gastric mucosa cells. In vivo results revealed that once DOX-HA-MSNs nanocarriers are exposed to an external magnetic field, they could be rapidly attracted to the magnet and effectively cross the cytoplasmic membrane via CD44 receptor-mediated transcytosis. This allows them to access the cancer cell cytoplasm and release DOX based on changes in the physiological environment. Both in vitro and in vivo results demonstrated that the HA-MSNs nanocarriers provided better therapeutic efficacy.

Conclusion: The HA-MSNs nanocarriers represent an effective new paradigm to treat cancers due to active targeting to the tumor cells. Moreover, the specific uptake by the tumor effectively protects normal tissues to reduce off-target side effects. The reported findings support further investigation of HA-MSNs for cancer therapy.

Au@SiO2@CuInS2-ZnS/Anti-AFP fluorescent probe improves HCC cell labeling

BACKGROUND

Clear tumor imaging is essential to the resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to create a novel biological probe to improve the HCC imaging.

METHODS

Au nano-flower particles and CuInS₂-ZnS core-shell quantum dots were synthesized by hydrothermal method. Au was coated with porous SiO₂ and combined with anti-AFP antibody. HCC cell line HepG2 was used to evaluate the targeting efficacy of the probe, while flow cytometry and MTT assay were used to detect the cytotoxicity and bio-compatibility of the probe. Probes were subcutaneously injected to nude mice to explore light intensity and tissue penetration.

RESULTS

The fluorescence stability of the probe was maintained 100% for 24 h, and the brightness value was 4 times stronger than that of the corresponding CuInS₂-ZnS quantum dot. In the targeting experiment, the labeled HepG2 emitted yellow fluorescence. In the cytotoxicity experiments, MTT and flow cytometry results showed that the bio-compatibility of the probe was fine, the inhibition rate of HepG2 cell with 60% Cu-QDs/Anti-AFP probe and Au-QDs/Anti-AFP probe solution for 48 h were significantly different (86.3%±7.0% vs. 4.9%±1.3%, t = 19.745, P<0.05), and the apoptosis rates were 83.3%±5.1% vs. 4.4%±0.8% (P<0.001). In the animal experiment, the luminescence of the novel probe can penetrate the abdominal tissues of a mouse, stronger than that of CuInS₂-ZnS quantum dot.

CONCLUSIONS

The Au@SiO₂@CuInS₂-ZnS/Anti-AFP probe can targetedly recognize and label HepG2 cells with good bio-compatibility and no toxicity, and the strong tissue penetrability of luminescence may be helpful to surgeons.

Alpha-Herpesvirus Thymidine Kinase Genes Mediate Viral Virulence and Are Potential Therapeutic Targets

Alpha-herpesvirus thymidine kinase (TK) genes are virulence-related genes and are nonessential for viral replication; they are often preferred target genes for the construction of gene-deleted attenuated vaccines and genetically engineered vectors for inserting and expressing foreign genes. The enzymes encoded by TK genes are key kinases in the nucleoside salvage pathway and have significant substrate diversity, especially the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) TK enzyme, which phosphorylates four nucleosides and various nucleoside analogues. Hence, the HSV-1 TK gene is exploited for the treatment of viral infections, as a suicide gene in antitumor therapy, and even for the regulation of stem cell transplantation and treatment of parasitic infection. This review introduces the effects of α-herpesvirus TK genes on viral virulence and infection in the host and classifies and summarizes the current main application domains and potential uses of these genes. In particular, mechanisms of action, clinical limitations, and antiviral and antitumor therapy development strategies are discussed.

Current Trends in Cancer Nanotheranostics: Metallic, Polymeric, and Lipid-Based Systems

Theranostics has emerged in recent years to provide an efficient and safer alternative in cancer management. This review presents an updated description of nanotheranostic formulations under development for skin cancer (including melanoma), head and neck, thyroid, breast, gynecologic, prostate, and colon cancers, brain-related cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. With this focus, we appraised the clinical advantages and drawbacks of metallic, polymeric, and lipid-based nanosystems, such as low invasiveness, low toxicity to the surrounding healthy tissues, high precision, deeper tissue penetration, and dosage adjustment in a real-time setting. Particularly recognizing the increased complexity and multimodality in this area, multifunctional hybrid nanoparticles, comprising different nanomaterials and functionalized with targeting moieties and/or anticancer drugs, present the best characteristics for theranostics. Several examples, focusing on their design, composition, imaging and treatment modalities, and in vitro and in vivo characterization, are detailed herein. Briefly, all studies followed a common trend in the design of these theranostics modalities, such as the use of materials and/or drugs that share both inherent imaging (e.g., contrast agents) and therapeutic properties (e.g., heating or production reactive oxygen species). This rationale allows one to apparently overcome the heterogeneity, complexity, and harsh conditions of tumor microenvironments, leading to the development of successful targeted therapies.

Inhibition of constructed SEC3-ES lentiviral vector to proliferation, migration of Hela cells

AIM

To construct a lentiviral vector with endostatin (ES) and staphylococcal enterotoxin C₃(SEC3) gene, and investigate its capacities of inhibition on proliferation and migration of Hela cells.

METHODS

By inserting ES and SEC3 gene into the plasmid and then transfect 293 T cell, the co-expressed (SEC3-ES) vector were constructed. A series of experiments in vitro were carried out to detect its anti-tumor capacity.

RESULTS

SEC3 expression of the vector is about 3 times of GV365-SEC3 vector, and ES expression is over 22.5-fold compared with GV365-ES vector. Moreover, OD490 value of CO group (1.212 ± 0.003) was notably lower than NC (negative control) group (1.124 ± 0.01) (P < 0.05) in MTT assay. Cell cycle analysis showed it could block Hela cells in S phase. Meanwhile, in wound healing assay, cells of CO group migrated at a slower rate (0.59 ± 0.02) compared with NC group (0.65 ± 0.02)(P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The successful construction of co-expressed vector lays the foundation for further studies in vivo. These promising results suggest a new strategy to treating cervical cancer.

Synergistic effect of resveratrol and HSV-TK/GCV therapy on murine hepatoma cells

Despite its low transfer efficiency, suicide gene therapy with HSV-TK is known for its bystander killing effect. The connexin-based gap junction is believed to mediate the bystander effect. Recently, we found that resveratrol, a polyphenol compound, increased the expression of Cx26 and Cx43, which are connexins and important constituents of gap junctions, in murine hepatoma cells. Hypothetically, the resveratrol-induced upregulation of gap junctions may improve the bystander effect that HSV-TK/GCV has on hepatoma cells. Our present investigation revealed that resveratrol could enhance intercellular communication at the gap junctions in CBRH7919 hepatoma cells and thereby enhance the bystander killing effect of GCV on CBRH7919^TK cells. However, inhibition of gap junction using its long-term inhibitor alpha-glycyrrhetinic acid had a negative influence on the bystander effect of gene therapy with HSV-TK/GCV. In addition, combined resveratrol and GCV treatment in tumor-bearing mice with CBRH7919^TK and CBRH7919^WT cells at a ratio of 2:3 resulted in a significant decrease in the volume and weight of the tumor in comparison to GCV or only resveratrol. The present results demonstrate that resveratrol can enhance the bystander effect exerted by the HSV-TK/GCV system by enhancing connexin-mediated gap junctional communication.

Biochemistry and biomedicine of quantum dots: from biodetection to bioimaging, drug discovery, diagnostics, and therapy

According to recent research, nanotechnology based on quantum dots (QDs) has been widely applied in the field of bioimaging, drug delivery, and drug analysis. Therefore, it has become one of the major forces driving basic and applied research. The application of nanotechnology in bioimaging has been of concern. Through in vitro labeling, it was found that luminescent QDs possess many properties such as narrow emission, broad UV excitation, bright fluorescence, and high photostability. The QDs also show great potential in whole-body imaging. The QDs can be combined with biomolecules, and hence, they can be used for targeted drug delivery and diagnosis. The characteristics of QDs make them useful for application in pharmacy and pharmacology. This review focuses on various applications of QDs, especially in imaging, drug delivery, pharmaceutical analysis, photothermal therapy, biochips, and targeted surgery. Finally, conclusions are made by providing some critical challenges and a perspective of how this field can be expected to develop in the future.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Quantum dots (QDs) is an emerging field of interdisciplinary subject that involves physics, chemistry, materialogy, biology, medicine, and so on. In addition, nanotechnology based on QDs has been applied in depth in biochemistry and biomedicine. Some forward-looking fields emphatically reflected in some extremely vital areas that possess inspiring potential applicable prospects, such as immunoassay, DNA analysis, biological monitoring, drug discovery, in vitro labelling, in vivo imaging, and tumor target are closely connected to human life and health and has been the top and forefront in science and technology to date. Furthermore, this review has not only involved the traditional biochemical detection but also particularly emphasized its potential applications in life science and biomedicine.

Self-assembled dual fluorescence nanoparticles for CD44-targeted delivery of anti-miR-27a in liver cancer theranostics

Despite the vital role miRNA-27a plays in driving the development and progress of liver cancer, miRNA-based inhibition therapy is hampered due to its undesired degradation and off-target effects. Herein, a multifunctional nanoparticle for noninvasive tracking of targeted delivery of anti-miR-27a oligonucleotides against liver cancer was constructed.

Methods: Dual-fluorescent conjugates (QD-HA-PEI) were first fabricated through crosslinking hyaluronic acid (HA), polyethyleneimine (PEI) and near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent quantum dots (QDs) via a facile one-pot approach. Antisense oligonucleotide was then encapsulated by QD-HA-PEI to form anti-miR-27a/QD-HA-PEI via electrostatic interactions. Targeting, biodistribution, bioimaging, in vitro cytotoxicity and in vivo anti-tumor effects were evaluated and the underlying mechanism was studied.

Results: The NIR fluorescence of anti-miR-27a/QD-HA-PEI could be employed to monitor CD44 receptor-targeted cellular uptake and tumor accumulation. Importantly, the intrinsic fluorescence of anti-miR-27a/QD-HA-PEI remained in the “ON” state in extracellular or blood environment, but switched to the “OFF” state in the intracellular environment, indicating pH-responsive oligonucleotide release. Furthermore, anti-miR-27a/QD-HA-PEI exhibited effective and selective anti-cancer effects in vitro and in vivo with fewer side effects via the direct down-regulation of oncogenic transcription factors FOXO1 and PPAR-γ.

Conclusion: Our findings validate the dual-fluorescent nanoparticles as delivery vectors of therapeutic miRNA, capable of simultaneous tumor imaging and tracking of miRNA-based modulation therapy, thereby providing an efficient and safe approach for liver cancer theranostics.

Berberine-based carbon dots for selective and safe cancer theranostics

Fluorescent berberine-based carbon dots (Ber–CDs) were prepared through a facile synthesis strategy.

Janus Gold Nanoplatform for Synergetic Chemoradiotherapy and Computed Tomography Imaging of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

There is a pressing need to develop nanoplatforms that integrate multimodal therapeutics to improve treatment responses and prolong the survival of patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Mesoporous silica-coated gold nanomaterials have emerged as a novel multifunctional platform combining tunable surface plasmon resonance and mesoporous properties that exhibit multimodality properties in cancer theranostics. However, their reduced radiation-absorption efficiency and limited surface area hinder their further radiochemotherapeutic applications. To address these issues, we designed Janus-structured gold-mesoporous silica nanoparticles using a modified sol-gel method. This multifunctional theranostic nanoplatform was subsequently modified via the conjugation of folic acid for enhanced HCC targeting and internalization. The loaded anticancer agent doxorubicin can be released from the mesopores in a pH-responsive manner, facilitating selective and safe chemotherapy. Additionally, the combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy induced synergistic anticancer effects in vitro and exhibited remarkable inhibition of tumor growth in vivo along with significantly reduced systematic toxicity. Additionally, the Janus NPs acted as targeted computed tomography (CT)-imaging agents for HCC diagnosis. Given their better performance in chemoradiotherapy and CT imaging as compared with that of their core-shell counterparts, this new nanoplatform designed with dual functionalities provides a promising strategy for unresectable HCC theranostics.

Nanomaterial-based biosensors for detection of pathogenic virus

Viruses are real menace to human safety that cause devastating viral disease. The high prevalence of these diseases is due to improper detecting tools. Therefore, there is a remarkable demand to identify viruses in a fast, selective and accurate way. Several biosensors have been designed and commercialized for detection of pathogenic viruses. However, they present many challenges. Nanotechnology overcomes these challenges and performs direct detection of molecular targets in real time. In this overview, studies concerning nanotechnology-based biosensors for pathogenic virus detection have been summarized, paying special attention to biosensors based on graphene oxide, silica, carbon nanotubes, gold, silver, zinc oxide and magnetic nanoparticles, which could pave the way to detect viral diseases and provide healthy life for infected patients.

Janus Silver/Silica Nanoplatforms for Light-Activated Liver Cancer Chemo/Photothermal Therapy

Stimuli-triggered nanoplatforms have become attractive candidates for combined strategies for advanced liver cancer treatment. In this study, we designed a light-responsive nanoplatform with folic acid-targeting properties to surmount the poor aqueous stability and photostability of indocyanine green (ICG). In this Janus nanostructure, ICG was released on-demand from mesoporous silica compartments in response to near-infrared (NIR) irradiation, exhibiting predominant properties to convert light to heat in the cytoplasm to kill liver cancer cells. Importantly, the silver ions released from the silver compartment that were triggered by light could induce efficient chemotherapy to supplement photothermal therapy. Under NIR irradiation, ICG-loaded Janus nanoplatforms exhibited synergistic therapeutic capabilities both in vitro and in vivo compared with free ICG and ICG-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles themselves. Hence, our Janus nanoplatform could integrate ICG-based photothermal therapy and silver ion-based chemotherapy in a cascade manner, which might provide an efficient and safe strategy for combined liver cancer therapy.

Insight into the interactions between nanoparticles and cells

This review summarizes the latest advances in nanoparticle (NP)–cell interactions. The influence of NP size, shape, shell structure, surface chemistry and protein corona formation on cellular uptake and cytotoxicity is highlighted in detail. Their impact on other cellular responses such as cell proliferation, differentiation and cellular mechanics is also discussed.

The Research and Applications of Quantum Dots as Nano-Carriers for Targeted Drug Delivery and Cancer Therapy

Quantum dots (QDs), nano-carriers for drugs, can help realize the targeting of drugs, and improve the bioavailability of drugs in biological fields. And, a QD nano-carrier system for drugs has the potential to realize early detection, monitoring, and localized treatments of specific disease sites. In addition, QD nano-carrier systems for drugs can improve stability of drugs, lengthen circulation time in vivo, enhance targeted absorption, and improve the distribution and metabolism process of drugs in organization. So, the development of QD nano-carriers for drugs has become a hotspot in the fields of nano-drug research in recent years. In this paper, we review the advantages and applications of the QD nano-carriers for drugs in biological fields.

Harnessing mesenchymal stem cell homing as an anticancer therapy

INTRODUCTION

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are non-hematopoietic progenitor cells that have been exploited as vehicles for cell-based cancer therapy. The general approach is based on the innate potential of adoptively applied MSC to undergo facilitated recruitment to malignant tissue. MSC from different tissue sources have been engineered using a variety of therapy genes that have shown efficacy in solid tumor models.

AREAS COVERED

In this review we will focus on the current developments of MSC-based gene therapy, in particular the diverse approaches that have been used for MSCs-targeted tumor therapy. We also discuss some outstanding issues and general prospects for their clinical application.

EXPERT OPINION

The use of modified mesenchymal stem cells as therapy vehicles for the treatment of solid tumors has progressed to the first generation of clinical trials, but the general field is still in its infancy. There are many questions that need to be addressed if this very complex therapy approach is widely applied in clinical settings. More must be understood about the mechanisms underlying tumor tropism and we need to identify the optimal source of the cells used. Outstanding issues also include the therapy transgenes used, and which tumor types represent viable targets for this therapy.

Erythrocytes in nanomedicine: an optimal blend of natural and synthetic materials

A hybrid approach strategy using synthetic nanoparticles and erythrocytes offers an optimal blend of natural and synthetic materials. The combined advantages of erythrocytes and nanoparticles could serve as an immune-evasive multifunctional platform. This review summarized the research on state-of-the-art and significant advances in erythrocytes for nanomedicine, and presented are their fabrication process, their unique properties and applications. According to its structure, this review mainly focuses on three kinds of erythrocyte-based nanomedicine: whole erythrocytes as carriers, cell membrane coated nanoparticles, and nanoerythrosomes. In addition, some future prospects are also prudentially addressed. We expect rapid success in the advancement of erythrocyte-based nanomedicines, from the bench to the bedside.

Rapid and accurate tumor-target bio-imaging through specific in vivo biosynthesis of a fluorescent europium complex

We explored a novel strategy for the in situ self-imaging of cancer cells and tumors using a specifically biosynthesized fluorescent Eu complex.

Janus Au–mesoporous silica nanocarriers for chemo-photothermal treatment of liver cancer cells

Synthesis of novel Janus Au–mesoporous silica nanocarriers for the effective and safe chemo-photothermal treatment of liver cancer cells.

Utilising inorganic nanocarriers for gene delivery

The delivery of genetic materials into cells to elicit cellular response has been extensively studied by biomaterials scientists globally.

Theranostics for hepatocellular carcinoma with Fe3O4@ZnO nanocomposites

An Fe₃O₄@ZnO/Dox/TfR Ab was designed and synthesized as a theranostic agent for hepatocellular carcinoma, allowing for a targeted drug delivery with concurrent chemoradiotherapy and visual MRI evaluation of the therapeutic effect.

Cytotoxicity of various types of gold-mesoporous silica nanoparticles in human breast cancer cells

Recently, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have shown promising biological applications due to their unique electronic and optical properties. However, the potential toxicity of AuNPs remains a major hurdle that impedes their use in clinical settings. Mesoporous silica is very suitable for the use as a coating material for AuNPs and might not only reduce the cytotoxicity of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide-coated AuNPs but might also facilitate the loading and delivery of drugs. Herein, three types of rod-like gold-mesoporous silica nanoparticles (termed bare AuNPs, core-shell Au@mSiO2NPs, and Janus Au@mSiO2NPs) were specially designed, and the effects of these AuNPs on cellular uptake, toxic behavior, and mechanism were then systematically studied. Our results indicate that bare AuNPs exerted higher toxicity than the Au@mSiO2NPs and that Janus Au@mSiO2NPs exhibited the lowest toxicity in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells, consistent with the endocytosis capacity of the nanoparticles, which followed the order, bare AuNPs > core-shell Au@mSiO2NPs > Janus Au@mSiO2NPs. More importantly, the AuNPs-induced apoptosis of MCF-7 cells exhibited features that were characteristic of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, activation of c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation, an enhanced Bax-to-Bcl-2 ratio, and loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential. Simultaneously, cytochrome c was released from mitochondria, and the caspase-3/9 cascade was activated. Moreover, both ROS scavenger (N-acetylcysteine) and JNK inhibitor (SP600125) partly blocked the induction of apoptosis in all AuNPs-treated cells. Taken together, these findings suggest that all AuNPs induce apoptosis through the ROS-/JNK-mediated mitochondrial pathway. Thus, Janus Au@mSiO2NPs exhibit the potential for applications in biomedicine, thus aiding the clinical translation of AuNPs.