CNA-loaded PLGA nanoparticles improve humoral response againstS. aureus-mediated infections in a mouse model: subcutaneous vs. nasal administration strategy

Prophylactic vaccine delivery systems against epidemic infectious diseases

Prophylactic vaccines have evolved from traditional whole-cell vaccines to safer subunit vaccines. However, subunit vaccines still face problems, such as poor immunogenicity and low efficiency, while traditional adjuvants are usually unable to meet specific response needs. Advanced delivery vectors are important to overcome these barriers; they have favorable safety and effectiveness, tunable properties, precise location, and immunomodulatory capabilities. Nevertheless, there has been no systematic summary of the delivery systems to cover a wide range of infectious pathogens. We herein summarized and compared the delivery systems for major or epidemic infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. We also included the newly licensed vaccines (e.g., COVID-19 vaccines) and those close to licensure. Furthermore, we highlighted advanced delivery systems with high efficiency, cross-protection, or long-term protection against epidemic pathogens, and we put forward prospects and thoughts on the development of future prophylactic vaccines.

Intra-Articular Formulation of GE11-PLGA Conjugate-Based NPs for Dexamethasone Selective Targeting-In Vitro Evaluation

Selectively targeted nanoscale drug delivery systems have recently emerged as promising intravenously therapeutic option for most chronic joint diseases. Here, a newly synthetized dodecapeptide (GE11)-polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA)-based conjugate was used to prepare smart nanoparticles (NPs) intended for intra-articular administration and for selectively targeting Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR). GE11-PLGA conjugate-based NPs are specifically uptaken by EGFR-overexpressed fibroblast; such as synoviocytes; which are the primarily cellular component involved in the development of destructive joint inflammation. The selective uptake could help to tune drug effectiveness in joints and to decrease local and systemic side effects. Dexamethasone (DXM) is a glucorticoid drug commonly used in joint disease treatment for both systemic and local administration route. In the present research; DXM was efficiently loaded into GE11-PLGA conjugate-based NPs through an eco-friendly nanoprecipitation method set up for this purpose. DXM loaded GE11-PLGA conjugate-based NPs revealed satisfactory ex vivo cytocompatibility; with proper size (≤150 nm) and good dimensional stability in synovial fluid. Intra-articular formulation was developed embedding DXM loaded GE11-PLGA conjugate-based NPs into thermosetting chitosan-based hydrogel; forming a biocompatible composite hydrogel able to quickly turn from liquid state into gel state at physiological temperature; within 15 min. Moreover; the use of thermosetting chitosan-based hydrogel extends the local release of active agent; DXM.

Advances and Opportunities in Nanoparticle- and Nanomaterial-Based Vaccines against Bacterial Infections

As the dawn of the postantibiotic era we approach, antibacterial vaccines are becoming increasingly important for managing bacterial infection and reducing the need for antibiotics. Despite the success of vaccination, vaccines remain unavailable for many pressing microbial diseases, including tuberculosis, chlamydia, and staphylococcus infections. Amid continuing research efforts in antibacterial vaccine development, the advancement of nanomaterial engineering has brought forth new opportunities in vaccine designs. With increasing knowledge in antibacterial immunity and immunologic adjuvants, innovative nanoparticles are designed to elicit the appropriate immune responses for effective antimicrobial defense. Rationally designed nanoparticles are demonstrated to overcome delivery barriers to shape the adaptive immunity. This article reviews the advances in nanoparticle- and nanomaterial-based antibacterial vaccines and summarizes the development of nanoparticulate adjuvants for immune potentiation against microbial pathogens. In addition, challenges and progress in ongoing antibacterial vaccine development are discussed to highlight the opportunities for future vaccine designs.