Zinc oxide nanoparticles as a novel anticancer approach; in vitro and in vivo evidence

Enhanced anticancer activity of silver doped zinc oxide magnetic nanocarrier loaded with sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment

Drug delivery is the process or method of delivering a pharmacological product to have therapeutic effects on humans or animals. The use of nanoparticles to deliver medications to cells is driving the present surge in interest in improving human health. Green nanodrug delivery methods are based on chemical processes that are acceptable for the environment or that use natural biomaterials such as plant extracts and microorganisms. In this study, zinc oxide-superparamagnetic iron oxide-silver nanocomposite was synthesized via green synthesis method using Fusarium oxysporum fungi mycelia then loaded with sorafenib drug. The synthesized nanocomposites were characterized by UV-visibile spectroscopy, FTIR, TEM and SEM techniques. Sorafenib is a cancer treatment and is also known by its brand name, Nexavar. Sorafenib is the only systemic medication available in the world to treat hepatocellular carcinoma. Sorafenib, like many other chemotherapeutics, has side effects that restrict its effectiveness, including toxicity, nausea, mucositis, hypertension, alopecia, and hand-foot skin reaction. In our study, 40 male albino rats were given a single dose of diethyl nitrosamine (DEN) 60 mg/kg b.wt., followed by carbon tetrachloride 2 ml/kg b.wt. twice a week for one month. The aim of our study is using the zinc oxide-superparamagnetic iron oxide-silver nanocomposite that was synthesized by Fusarium oxysporum fungi mycelia as nanocarrier for enhancement the sorafenib anticancer effect.

Amelioratedin vitroanti-cancer efficacy of methotrexate loaded zinc oxide nanoparticles in breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 & MDA-MB-231 and its acute toxicity study

Traditional therapies often struggle with specificity and resistance in case of cancer treatments. It is therefore important to investigate new approaches for cancer treatment based on nanotechnology. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are known to exhibit anti-cancer properties by inducing oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest. Methotrexate (MTX) a known anti-folate shows specificity to folate receptors and interrupts healthy functioning of cells. This study proposes the use of previously characterized biocompatible Methotrexate loaded Zinc oxide nanoparticles (MTX-ZnONPs) as a dual action therapeutic strategy against breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 (MTX-sensitive) and MDA-MB-231 (MTX-resistant). To elucidate the cytotoxicity mechanism of MTX-ZnONPs an in depthIn vitrostudy was carried out.In vitroassays, including cell cycle analysis, apoptosis assay, and western blot analysis to study the protein expression were performed. Results of these assays, further supported the anti-cancer activity of MTX-ZnONPs showing apoptotic and necrotic activity in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell line respectively.In vivoacute oral toxicity study to identify the LD50in animals revealed no signs of toxicity and mortality up to 550 mg kg-1body weight of animal, significantly higher LD50values than anticipated therapeutic levels and safety of the synthesized nanosystem. The study concludes that MTX-ZnONPs exhibit anti-cancer potential against breast cancer cells offering a promising strategy for overcoming resistance.

Therapeutic Potential of Sol-Gel ZnO Nanocrystals: Anticancer, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Tri-Action

Zinc oxide nanocrystals (ZnO NCs) hold great promise in nanomedicine with fascinating multifunctional properties. We investigated the therapeutic potential of sol-gel synthesized ZnO NCs with crystal sizes of 52.65 and 25.11 nm, focusing on their anticancer effects on HepG2 and HT29 cells, antioxidant properties, and antimicrobial activity. Both samples displayed a hexagonal wurtzite ZnO structure, wherein the crystal sizes diminished with lower calcination temperatures according to X-ray diffraction. The scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that lowering the calcination temperature resulted in a decrease in the grain size of the ZnO NCs, as expected. This reduction in grain size combined with a decrease in crystal size resulted in a significant 40% reduction in the reflectance of the ZnO NCs in UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy. It was also observed that the ZnO NCs calcined at higher temperatures exhibited larger particle sizes with a reduced surface area mean of 69.30 μm and a stable negative zeta potential of -11.2 mV. In contrast, the ZnO NCs calcined at lower temperatures exhibited a larger surface area mean of 34.56 μm and a positive zeta potential of +10 mV. In both cell lines, the cytotoxic potential was found to be higher in HepG2 cells. Specifically, when ZnO nanocrystals (NCs) with a crystal size of 52.65 nm were used, the lowest cell viability was observed at a concentration of 5.74 μg/mL. Based on oxidative stress index values, a lower crystal size of ZnO NCs displayed greater effectiveness in HT29 cells, while a higher crystal size of ZnO NCs had pronounced effects in HepG2 cells. Moreover, both ZnO NCs exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus) and Candida parapsilopsis fungus. These findings emphasize sol-gel ZnO NCs' potential as versatile agents in nanomedicine, spurring research on targeted cancer therapies and antimicrobial innovations.

Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Trigger Autophagy in the Human Multiple Myeloma Cell Line RPMI8226: an In Vitro Study

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant clonal proliferative plasma cell tumor. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are used for antibacterial and antitumor applications in the biomedical field. This study investigated the autophagy-induced effects of ZnO NPs on the MM cell line RPMI8226 and the underlying mechanism. After RPMI8226 cells were exposed to various concentrations of ZnO NPs, the cell survival rate, morphological changes, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, cell cycle arrest, and autophagic vacuoles were monitored. Moreover, we investigated the expression of Beclin 1 (Becn1), autophagy-related gene 5 (Atg5), and Atg12 at the mRNA and protein levels, as well as the level of light chain 3 (LC3). The results showed that ZnO NPs could effectively inhibit the proliferation and promote the death of RPMI8226 cells in vitro in a dose- and time-dependent manner. ZnO NPs increased LDH levels, enhanced monodansylcadaverine (MDC) fluorescence intensity, and induced cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phases in RPMI8226 cells. Moreover, ZnO NPs significantly increased the expression of Becn1, Atg5, and Atg12 at the mRNA and protein levels and stimulated the production of LC3. We further validated the results using the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3‑MA). Overall, we observed that ZnO NPs can trigger autophagy signaling in RPMI8226 cells, which may be a potential therapeutic approach for MM.

Targeting the NF-κB p65/Bcl-2 signaling pathway in hepatic cellular carcinoma using radiation assisted synthesis of zinc nanoparticles coated with naturally isolated gallic acid

PURPOSE

Oral diethylnitrosamine (DEN) is a known hepatocarcinogen that damages the liver and causes cancer. DEN damages the liver through reactive oxygen species-mediated inflammation and biological process regulation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Gallic acid-coated zinc oxide nanoparticles (Zn-GANPs) were made from zinc oxide (ZnO) synthesized by irradiation dose of 50 kGy utilizing a Co-60 γ-ray source chamber with a dose rate of 0.83 kGy/h and gallic acid from pomegranate peel. UV-visible (UV) spectrophotometry verified Zn-GANP synthesis. TEM, DLS, and FTIR were utilized to investigate ZnO-NPs' characteristics. Rats were orally exposed to DEN for 8 weeks at 20 mg/kg five times per week, followed by intraperitoneal injection of Zn-GANPs at 20 mg/kg for 5 weeks. Using oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, liver function, histologic, apoptotic, and cell cycle parameters for evaluating Zn-GANPs treatment.

RESULTS

DEN exposure elevated inflammatory markers (AFP and NF-κB p65), transaminases (AST, ALT), γ-GT, globulin, and total bilirubin, with reduced protein and albumin levels. It also increased MDA levels, oxidative liver cell damage, and Bcl-2, while decreasing caspase-3 and antioxidants like GSH, and CAT. Zn-GANPs significantly mitigated these effects and lowered lipid peroxidation, AST, ALT, and γ-GT levels, significantly increased CAT and GSH levels (p<0.05). Zn-GANPs caused S and G2/M cell cycle arrest and G0/G1 apoptosis. These results were associated with higher caspase-3 levels and lower Bcl-2 and TGF-β1 levels. Zn-GANPs enhance and restore the histology and ultrastructure of the liver in DEN-induced rats.

CONCLUSION

The data imply that Zn-GANPs may prevent and treat DEN-induced liver damage and carcinogenesis.

Current Trends on the Involvement of Zinc, Copper, and Selenium in the Process of Hepatocarcinogenesis

Numerous nutritional factors increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. The dysregulation of zinc, copper, and selenium homeostasis is associated with the occurrence of HCC. The impairment of the homeostasis of these essential trace elements results in oxidative stress, DNA damage, cell cycle progression, and angiogenesis, finally leading to hepatocarcinogenesis. These essential trace elements can affect the microenvironment in HCC. The carrier proteins for zinc and copper and selenium-containing enzymes play important roles in the prevention or progression of HCC. These trace elements enhance or alleviate the chemosensitivity of anticancer agents in patients with HCC. The zinc, copper, or selenium may affect the homeostasis of other trace elements with each other. Novel types of cell death including ferropotosis and cupropotosis are also associated with hepatocarcinogenesis. Therapeutic strategies for HCC that target these carrier proteins for zinc and copper or selenium-containing enzymes have been developed in in vitro and in vivo studies. The use of zinc-, copper- or selenium-nanoparticles has been considered as novel therapeutic agents for HCC. These results indicate that zinc, copper, and selenium may become promising therapeutic targets in patients with HCC. The clinical application of these agents is an urgent unmet requirement. This review article highlights the correlation between the dysregulation of the homeostasis of these essential trace elements and the development of HCC and summarizes the current trends on the roles of these essential trace elements in the pathogenesis of hepatocarcinogenesis.

Biosynthesis of Artemisia abyssinica Leaf Extract-Mediated Bimetallic ZnO-CuO Nanoparticles: Antioxidant, Anticancer, and Molecular Docking Studies

Currently, plant extract-mediated synthesized metal oxide nanoparticles (MO NPs) have played a substantial role in biological applications. Hence, this study focused on the eco-benign one-pot synthesis of bimetallic ZnO-CuO nanoparticles (ZC NPs) using the leaf extract of Artemisia abyssinica (LEAA) and evaluations of their anticancer, antioxidant, and molecular binding efficacy. The optical absorption peak at 380 nm from UV-visible (UV-vis) analysis revealed the formation of ZC NPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results revealed the fabrication of mixed-phase crystals with hexagonal and monoclinic structures of ZC NPs with an average crystallite size of 14 nm. Moreover, the biosynthesis of ZC NPs with a spherical morphology and an average particle size of 13.09 nm was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTA) spectroscopy confirmed the involvement of functional groups from LEAA during the synthesis of ZC NPs. ZC NPs have exhibited the ferric ion reducing power (FRAP) with an absorbance of 1.826 ± 0.00 at 200 μg/mL and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate) radical scavenging activity of 95.71 ± 0.02% at 200 μg/mL with an IC50 value of 3.28 μg/mL. Moreover, ZC NPs had shown a promising in vitro anticancer activity of 89.20 ± 0.038 at 500 μg/mL with an IC50 value of 33.12 μg/mL against breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines. Likewise, ZC NPs have shown strong binding affinity (-8.50 kcal/mol) against estrogen receptor α (ERα) in molecular docking simulations. These findings suggested that the biosynthesized ZC NPs could be used as promising antioxidant and anticancer drug candidates, particularly for breast cancer ailments. However, the in vivo cytotoxicity test will be recommended to ensure further use of ZC NPs.

Dissolved metal ion removal by online hollow fiber ultrafiltration for enhanced size characterization of metal-containing nanoparticles with single-particle ICP-MS

Single particle-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SP-ICP-MS) is a powerful tool for size-characterization of metal-containing nanoparticles (MCNs) at environmentally relevant concentrations, however, coexisting dissolved metal ions greatly interfere with the accuracy of particle size analysis. The purpose of this study is to develop an online technique that couples hollow fiber ultrafiltration (HFUF) with SP-ICP-MS to improve the accuracy and size detection limit of MCNs by removing metal ions from suspensions of MCNs. Through systematic optimization of conditions including the type and concentration of surfactant and complexing agent, carrier pH, and ion cleaning time, HFUF completely removes metal ions but retains the MCNs in suspension. The optimal conditions include using a mixture of 0.05 vol.% FL-70 and 0.5 mmol/L Na₂S₂O₃ (pH = 8.0) as the carrier and 4 min as the ion cleaning time. At these conditions, HFUF-SP-ICP-MS accurately determines the sizes of MCNs, and the results agree with the size distribution determined by transmission electron microscopy, even when metal ions also are present in the sample. In addition, reducing the ionic background through HFUF also lowers the particle size detection limit with SP-ICP-MS (e.g., from 28.3 to 14.2 nm for gold nanoparticles). This size-based ion-removal principle provided by HFUF is suitable for both cations (e.g., Ag⁺) and anions (e.g., AuCl₄^-) and thus has good versatility compared to ion exchange purification and promising prospects for the removal of salts and macromolecules before single particle analysis.

Green Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Moringa olifera Ethanolic Extract Lessens Acrylamide-Induced Testicular Damage, Apoptosis, and Steroidogenesis-Related Gene Dysregulation in Adult Rats

This study assessed the possible protective role of green synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles using Moringa olifera leaf extract (MO-ZNPs) in acrylamide (ACR)-induced reproductive dysfunctions in male rats. ACR (20 mg/kg b.wt/day) and/or MO-ZNPs (10 mg/kg b.wt/day) were given orally by gastric gavage for 60 days. Then, sperm parameters; testicular enzymes; oxidative stress markers; reproductive hormones including testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH)-estradiol, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentration; testis histology; steroidogenesis-related gene expression; and apoptotic markers were examined. The findings revealed that MO-ZNPs significantly ameliorated the ACR-induced decline in the gonadosomatic index and altered the pituitary-gonadal axis, reflected by decreased serum testosterone and FSH with increased estradiol and LH, and sperm analysis disruption. Furthermore, a notable restoration of the tissue content of antioxidants (catalase and reduced glutathione) but depletion of malondialdehyde was evident in MO-ZNPs+ACR-treated rats compared to ACR-exposed ones. In addition, MO-ZNPs oral dosing markedly rescued the histopathological changes and apoptotic caspase-3 reactions in the testis resulting from ACR exposure. Furthermore, in MO-ZNPs+ACR-treated rats, ACR-induced downregulation of testicular steroidogenesis genes and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immune-expression were reversed. Conclusively, MO-ZNPs protected male rats from ACR-induced reproductive toxicity by suppressing oxidative injury and apoptosis while boosting steroidogenesis and sex hormones.

Metal Oxide Nanoparticles: Review of Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Effects

In the last few years, the progress made in the field of nanotechnology has allowed researchers to develop and synthesize nanosized materials with unique physicochemical characteristics, suitable for various biomedical applications. Amongst these nanomaterials, metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) have gained increasing interest due to their excellent properties, which to a great extent differ from their bulk counterpart. However, despite such positive advantages, a substantial body of literature reports on their cytotoxic effects, which are directly correlated to the nanoparticles' physicochemical properties, therefore, better control over the synthetic parameters will not only lead to favorable surface characteristics but may also increase biocompatibility and consequently lower cytotoxicity. Taking into consideration the enormous biomedical potential of MONPs, the present review will discuss the most recent developments in this field referring mainly to synthesis methods, physical and chemical characterization and biological effects, including the pro-regenerative and antitumor potentials as well as antibacterial activity. Moreover, the last section of the review will tackle the pressing issue of the toxic effects of MONPs on various tissues/organs and cell lines.

Environmental Implications Associated with the Development of Nanotechnology: From Synthesis to Disposal

Nanotechnology remains under continuous development. The unique, fascinating, and tunable properties of nanomaterials make them interesting for diverse applications in different fields such as medicine, agriculture, and remediation. However, knowledge about the risks associated with nanomaterials is still poorly known and presents variable results. Furthermore, the interaction of nanomaterials with biological systems and the environment still needs to be clarified. Moreover, some issues such as toxicity, bioaccumulation, and physicochemical transformations are found to be dependent on several factors such as size, capping agent, and shape, making the comparisons even more complex. This review presents a comprehensive discussion about the consequences of the use and development of nanomaterials regarding their potential risks to the environment as well as human and animal health. For this purpose, we reviewed the entire production chain from manufacturing, product development, applications, and even product disposal to raise the important implications at each stage. In addition, we present the recent developments in terms of risk management and the recycling of nanomaterials. Furthermore, the advances and limitations in the legislation and characterization of nanomaterials are also discussed.

Palliative effect of Moringa olifera-mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles against acrylamide-induced neurotoxicity in rats

Repeated acrylamide (ACR) exposure in experimental animals and humans causes variable degrees of neuronal damage. Because of its unique features, several green synthesized nanomaterials are explored for neuromodulatory activity. Hence, this study investigated the effect of green synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles using Moriga olifera leaves extract (MO-ZnONP) against acrylamide (ACR)-induced neurobehavioral and neurotoxic impacts in rat. Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were distributed into four groups orally given distilled water, MO-ZnONP (10 mg/kg b.wt), ACR (20 mg/kg b.wt), or MO-ZnONP + ACR for 60 days. Gait quality and muscular, motor, and sensory function were assessed. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), dopamine, catalase, malondialdehyde (MDA), and Zn brain contents were determined. Brain histopathology and immunohistochemical localization of the amyloid-β protein and abnormal Tau were performed. The results revealed that MO-ZnONP significantly reduced ACR-induced sensory dysfunctions, hind limb abnormality, and motor deficits. Additionally, the ACR-induced increase in dopamine and AChE were significantly supressed by MO-ZnONP. Besides, MO-ZnONP significantly restored catalase and Zn content but reduced increased MDA brain content resulting from ACR. Furthermore, the ACR-induced neurodegenerative changes and increased amyloid-β and phosphorylated Tau immunoexpression was significantly abolished by MO-ZnONP. Conclusively, MO-ZnONP could be used as a biologically effective compound for mitigating ACR's neurotoxic and neurobehavioral effects.

Cytotoxic Activity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Mediated by Euphorbia Retusa

Background: Cancer is a dangerous threat that creates extremely high rates of death and morbidity in various regions of the world. Finding suitable therapeutics to improve cancer therapy while avoiding side effects is critical. The most appropriate innovative therapeutics, which combine natural ingredients and nanomaterials, can improve the biological activity of cancer chemotherapeutics. Methods: Phenolic profiling using high-resolution mass spectrometry and the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles was achieved through the reaction of zinc acetate with Euphorbia retusa extract. The characterization of ZnONPs was performed by UV, IR, Zeta potential, XRD, SEM, and TEM. The cytotoxic activity of the ZnONPs was evaluated using a SRB assay against lung, liver, and breast cancer cell lines. Moreover, the mechanism of cytotoxic activity was evaluated in the form of caspase-8 promoters and anti-inflammatory mechanisms using the Western blot method. Results: The high-resolution LC/MS/MS of the E. retusa led to the identification of 22 compounds in the plant for the first time. The Er-ZnONPs had hexagonal shapes, were approximately 100 nm in size, and consisted of aggregated particles of about 10 nm. The E. retusa ZnONPs exhibited cytotoxic activity against HA-549 (IC50 = 22.3 µg/mL), HepG2 (IC50 = 25.6), Huh-7 (IC50 = 25.7), MCF-7 (IC50 = 37.7), and MDA-MB-231 (IC50 = 37). Conclusions: E. retusa are rich in phenolics that are capable of synthesizing ZnONPs, which possess cytotoxic activity, via caspase-8 promotion and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Nanocluster-mediated photothermia improves eradication efficiency and antibiotic sensitivity of Helicobacter pylori

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication plays a crucial role in gastric cancer prevention, but the antimicrobial resistance of H. pylori is obstructing this elimination process. In this study, we developed nanoclusters (NCs) from Zn0.3Fe2.7O4 nanoparticles using a poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(ε-caprolactone)-based nanocarrier as an innovative antibiotic-independent H. pylori management.

Results

The nanocluster showed minimal toxicity and maximal biocompatibility. With a low concentration (50 µg/mL) of NCs under a short time period (~ 2 min) of near-infrared (808 nm) irradiation, we kept the culture medium temperature to 41 °C for 20 min with continuous irradiation. The heated NCs exhibited efficient photothermal effects and resulted in an excellent inhibition of H. pylori growth, adhesion and ability to induce vacuolization in eukaryotic cells in in vitro investigation. Transmission electron microscopy showed a dramatic morphologic change after NCs photothermia on H. pylori, including cell wall and membrane rupture, as well as ribosome damage. Besides, levofloxacin and clarithromycin resistance was decreased after photothermal treatment in H. pylori NCTC 11637 and/or clinical strains, however metronidazole resistance was unchanged. We also discovered a significant decrease in the biofilm formation of H. pylori under the NCs-based photothermal application, while efflux pump function was unchanged.

Conclusions

Based on this novel NCs-based photothermal approach, we were able to demonstrate in vitro a significant inhibition of both H. pylori growth and molecular toxicity, and its improvement in antibiotic sensitivity alone with the eradication of H. pylori biofilms previously believed to be tolerant to conventional antibiotics.

Understanding Nanomaterial-Liver Interactions to Facilitate the Development of Safer Nanoapplications

Nanomaterials (NMs) are widely used in commercial and medical products, such as cosmetics, vaccines, and drug carriers. Exposure to NMs via various routes such as dermal, inhalation, and ingestion has been shown to gain access to the systemic circulation, resulting in the accumulation of NMs in the liver. The unique organ structures and blood flow features facilitate the liver sequestration of NMs, which may cause adverse effects in the liver. Currently, most in vivo studies are focused on NMs accumulation at the organ level and evaluation of the gross changes in liver structure and functions, however, cell-type-specific uptake and responses, as well as the molecular mechanisms at cellular levels leading to effects at organ levels are lagging. Herein, the authors systematically review diverse interactions of NMs with the liver, specifically on major liver cell types including Kupffer cells (KCs), liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and hepatocytes as well as the detailed molecular mechanisms involved. In addition, the knowledge gained on nano-liver interactions that can facilitate the development of safer nanoproducts and nanomedicine is also reviewed.

ZnO nanoparticles stimulate oxidative stress to induce apoptosis of B16F10 melanoma cells:In vitroandin vivostudies

Melanoma is one of the most aggressive skin cancers. However, there remain many limitations in the current clinical treatments of it. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have been considered to be a promising antitumor drug due to their excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability and biofunctionality. In this study, we prepared spherical ZnO NPs with an average diameter of less than 10 nm by a simple chemical method. According to thein vitrocytotoxicity assay, ZnO NPs in a certain concentration range (20-35μg ml^-1) showed significant cytotoxicity to B16F10 melanoma cells, while having little effect on the viability of 3T3L1 fibroblasts. When cultured with B16F10 melanoma cells, ZnO NPs induced the generation of reactive oxygen and mitochondrial superoxide through the release of Zn²⁺, leading to oxidative stress in the cells, further reducing the mitochondrial membrane potential and decreasing the number of mitochondrial cristae. Furthermore, damaged mitochondria induced the release of apoptosis factors to promote cell apoptosis. FITC-Annexin V/propidium iodide double staining assay was used to analyze different apoptosis stages of B16F10 cells induced by ZnO NPs. A polymer hydrogel (Gel-F127-ZnO NPs) with Pluronic F127 as the carrier of ZnO NPs was fabricated for evaluating the antitumor effect of ZnO NPsin vivo. Thein vivoexperiment indicated that the tumor recurrence was significantly inhibited in tumor-bearing mice after treated with Gel-F127-ZnO NPs. Conclusively, ZnO NPs showed a strong antitumor effect bothin vitroandin vivo.

Impact of zinc oxide nanoparticles and thymoquinone in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma induced in mice

BACKGROUND

The field of nanotechnology offers great opportunities for cancer therapy.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the therapeutic impact of Zn oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and thymoquinone (TQ) alone or as cotherapy in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) induced in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was performed on 75 female albino mice divided into Group I: EAC-bearing control group, Group II: EAC treated with TQ, Group III: EAC treated with low-dose ZnO NPs, Group IV: EAC treated with high-dose ZnO NPs, Group V: EAC treated with TQ and low-dose ZnO NPs. All groups were subjected to measurement of cell viability, ascites fluid volume, Bcl2 protein expression by Western blot analysis, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) gene expression by a real-time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay levels of Beclin 1, interferon γ (INFγ), interleukin 13 (IL-13), and estimation of Zn concentrations in EAC cells and liver homogenate to evaluate its toxicity.

RESULTS

Cotherapy has an efficient anticancer effect by enhancing apoptosis and autophagy, resulting in reducing tumor cell viability and ascites fluid volume together with downregulation of Bcl2 protein expression. This cotherapy increases Beclin 1 and INFγ and decreases IL-13. ZnO NPs upregulate COX2 expression, whereas TQ downregulates its expression. High-dose ZnO NPs have more toxic effects on liver enzymes. Using TQ together with ZnO NPs can eliminate ZnO NPs liver toxicity.

CONCLUSION

The cotherapy has an efficient anticancer effect by enhancing apoptosis and autophagy. High-dose ZnO NPs have more toxic effects on liver enzymes. Using TQ together with ZnO NPs can eliminate ZnO NP liver toxicity.

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on the Serum Metabolites Profile at the Early Stage of Breast Cancer in Rats

The cytotoxic properties of zinc nanoparticles have been evaluated in vitro against several types of cancer. However, there is a lack of significant evidence of their activity in vivo, and a potential therapeutic application remains limited. Herein we report the effective inhibition of tumor growth by zinc nanoparticles in vivo, as the effect of the dietary intervention, after the chemical induction in a rodent model of breast cancer. Biopsy images indicated grade 1 tumors with multiple inflammatory infiltrates in the group treated with zinc nanoparticles, whereas, in the other groups, a moderately differentiated grade 2 adenocarcinoma was identified. Moreover, after the supplementation with zinc nanoparticles, the levels of several metabolites associated with cancer metabolism, important to its survival, were found to have been altered. We also revealed that the biological activity of zinc in vivo depends on the size of applied particles, as the treatment with zinc microparticles has not had much effect on cancer progression.

Role of inorganic nanoparticle degradation in cancer therapy

Nanomaterials are currently widely exploited for their potential in the development of novel cancer therapies, and so far, mainly nanoparticles (NPs) consisting of liposomes and polymers have made their way into the clinic. However, major bottlenecks for the clinical translation of other types of NPs (i.e. inorganic) are the lack of knowledge concerning their long-term distribution in vivo and their potential toxicity. To counter this, various research groups have worked on soluble NPs, such as zinc oxide (ZnO), copper oxide (CuO), and silver (Ag), which tend to dissolve spontaneously into their ionic form, releasing toxic metal ions and leading to reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation when exposed to cellular environments. By fine-tuning the dissolution kinetics of these NPs, it is possible to control the level of ROS production and thus cytotoxicity to selectively destroy tumor tissue. Specifically, cancer cells tend to exhibit a higher basal level of oxidative stress compared to normal cells due to their higher metabolic rates, and therefore, by engineering NPs that generate sufficient ROS that barely exceed toxic thresholds in cancer cells, normal cells will only experience reversible transient damage. This review focuses on the use of these soluble inorganic NPs for selective cancer therapy and on the various in vitro and in vivo studies that have aimed to control the dissolution kinetics of these NPs, either through particle doping or surface modifications.

Nanostructured metal oxides and its hybrids for photocatalytic and biomedical applications

Metal oxide nanoparticles and its hybrids are deemed to be one of the most attractive materials in an extensive range of applications due to their impressive optical, electronic, photocatalytic, and biological properties. Metal oxide based nanomaterials with extraordinary characteristics have been proposed, prepared, and used as main materials in the recent area of photocatalysis and biomedicine, due to their non-toxic nature, large specific surface area, useful optical bandgap, and high biological activity. Herein, this review reveals the recent advance development in the area like photocatalytic, anticancer and antibacterial performance of metal oxide nanomaterials for multidimensional applications. Consequently, we also focused on the encountered difficulties and prospects for the future application of metal oxide-based composites as promising candidates for the development of highly efficient photocatalytic and biomedical systems. This review article also delivers advanced knowledge to the scientific community who intends to design efficient photocatalytic and biomedical systems.

Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle Synergizes Sorafenib Anticancer Efficacy with Minimizing Its Cytotoxicity

Cancer, as a group, represents the most important cause of death worldwide. Unfortunately, the available therapeutic approaches of cancer including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy are unsatisfactory and represent a great challenge as many patients have cancer recurrence and severe side effects. Methotrexate (MTX) is a well-established (antineoplastic or cytotoxic) chemotherapy and immunosuppressant drug used to treat different types of cancer, but its usage requires high doses causing severe side effects. Therefore, we need a novel drug with high antitumor efficacy in addition to safety. The aim of this study was the evaluation of the antitumor efficacy of zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO-NPs) and sorafenib alone or in combination on solid Ehrlich carcinoma (SEC) in mice. Sixty adult female Swiss-albino mice were divided equally into 6 groups as follows: control, SEC, MTX, ZnO-NPs, sorafenib, and ZnO-NPs+sorafenib; all treatments continued for 4 weeks. ZnO-NPs were characterized by TEM, zeta potential, and SEM mapping. Data showed that ZnO-NPs synergized with sorafenib as a combination therapy to execute more effective and safer anticancer activity compared to monotherapy as showed by a significant reduction (P < 0.001) in tumor weight, tumor cell viability, and cancer tissue glutathione amount as well as by significant increase (P < 0.001) in tumor growth inhibition rate, DNA fragmentation, reactive oxygen species generation, the release of cytochrome c, and expression of the apoptotic gene caspase-3 in the tumor tissues with minimal changes in the liver, renal, and hematological parameters. Therefore, we suggest that ZnO-NPs might be a safe candidate in combination with sorafenib as a more potent anticancer. The safety of this combined treatment may allow its use in clinical trials.

All Roads Lead to the Liver: Metal Nanoparticles and Their Implications for Liver Health

Metal nanoparticles (NPs) are frequently encountered in daily life, and concerns have been raised about their toxicity and safety. Among which, they naturally accumulate in the liver after introduction into the body, independent of the route of administration. Some NPs exhibit intrinsic pharmaceutical effects that are related to their physical parameters, and their inadvertent accumulation in the liver can exert strong effects on liver function and structure. Even as such physiological consequences are often categorically dismissed as toxic and deleterious, there are cell type-specific and NP-specific biological responses that elicit distinctive pharmacological consequences that can be harnessed for good. By limiting the scope of discussion to metallic NPs, this work attempts to provide a balanced perspective on their safety in the liver, and discusses both possible therapeutic benefits and potential accidental liver damage arising from their interaction with specific parenchymal and nonparenchymal cell types in the liver.

Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Morphophysiological Effects, and Proteomic Responses of Crop Plants

Plant cells are frequently challenged with a wide range of adverse environmental conditions that restrict plant growth and limit the productivity of agricultural crops. Rapid development of nanotechnology and unsystematic discharge of metal containing nanoparticles (NPs) into the environment pose a serious threat to the ecological receptors including plants. Engineered nanoparticles are synthesized by physical, chemical, biological, or hybrid methods. In addition, volcanic eruption, mechanical grinding of earthquake-generating faults in Earth's crust, ocean spray, and ultrafine cosmic dust are the natural source of NPs in the atmosphere. Untying the nature of plant interactions with NPs is fundamental for assessing their uptake and distribution, as well as evaluating phytotoxicity. Modern mass spectrometry-based proteomic techniques allow precise identification of low abundant proteins, protein-protein interactions, and in-depth analyses of cellular signaling networks. The present review highlights current understanding of plant responses to NPs exploiting high-throughput proteomics techniques. Synthesis of NPs, their morphophysiological effects on crops, and applications of proteomic techniques, are discussed in details to comprehend the underlying mechanism of NPs stress acclimation.

ZnO Nanoparticles Induced Caspase-Dependent Apoptosis in Gingival Squamous Cell Carcinoma through Mitochondrial Dysfunction and p70S6K Signaling Pathway

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are increasingly used in sunscreens, food additives, pigments, rubber manufacture, and electronic materials. Several studies have shown that ZnO-NPs inhibit cell growth and induce apoptosis by the production of oxidative stress in a variety of human cancer cells. However, the anti-cancer property and molecular mechanism of ZnO-NPs in human gingival squamous cell carcinoma (GSCC) are not fully understood. In this study, we found that ZnO-NPs induced growth inhibition of GSCC (Ca9-22 and OECM-1 cells), but no damage in human normal keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) and gingival fibroblasts (HGF-1 cells). ZnO-NPs caused apoptotic cell death of GSCC in a concentration-dependent manner by the quantitative assessment of oligonucleosomal DNA fragmentation. Flow cytometric analysis of cell cycle progression revealed that sub-G1 phase accumulation was dramatically induced by ZnO-NPs. In addition, ZnO-NPs increased the intracellular reactive oxygen species and specifically superoxide levels, and also decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential. ZnO-NPs further activated apoptotic cell death via the caspase cascades. Importantly, anti-oxidant and caspase inhibitor clearly prevented ZnO-NP-induced cell death, indicating the fact that superoxide-induced mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with the ZnO-NP-mediated caspase-dependent apoptosis in human GSCC. Moreover, ZnO-NPs significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6K kinase). In a corollary in vivo study, our results demonstrated that ZnO-NPs possessed an anti-cancer effect in a zebrafish xenograft model. Collectively, these results suggest that ZnO-NPs induce apoptosis through the mitochondrial oxidative damage and p70S6K signaling pathway in human GSCC. The present study may provide an experimental basis for ZnO-NPs to be considered as a promising novel anti-tumor agent for the treatment of gingival cancer.

A pH-sensitive delivery system based on N-succinyl chitosan-ZnO nanoparticles for improving antibacterial and anticancer activities of curcumin

Inherent selective cytotoxicity, antibacterial activity and unique physicochemical properties of ZnO nanostructures and chitosan (CS) make them promising candidates for drug delivery. In this study, ZnO nanoparticles functionalized by N-succinyl chitosan as a pH-sensitive delivery system were synthesized to enhance the therapeutic potential of curcumin (CUR). CS coated-ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized by a co-precipitation method in the presence of CS. Chemical modification of CS-ZnO particles was performed by succinic anhydride for introducing -COOH functional groups which were then activated using 1,1'‑carbonyldiimidazole for CUR conjugation. The spherical-like CUR-conjugated system (CUR-CS-ZnO) with the average particle size of 40 nm presented significantly enhanced water dispersibility versus free CUR. The experimental study of CUR release from the system showed a pH-sensitive release profile, which enabled drug delivery to tumors and infection sites. MTT and Annexin-V FITC/PI assays revealed the superior anticancer activity of CUR-CS-ZnO compared to free CUR against breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) by inducing the apoptotic response with no cytotoxic effects on HEK293 normal cells. Moreover, CUR conjugation to the system notably dropped the MIC (25 to 50-fold) and MBC values (10 to 40-fold) against S. aureus and E. coli. The features qualify the formulation for anticancer and antimicrobial applications in the future.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles for therapeutic purposes in cancer medicine

Zinc oxide nanoparticles are characterized by a good biocompatibility while providing a versatile potential as innovative therapeutic agents in cancer medicine.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles induce human multiple myeloma cell death via reactive oxygen species and Cyt-C/Apaf-1/Caspase-9/Caspase-3 signaling pathway in vitro

BACKGROUND

Human multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant and incurable B cell tumor. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have been widely used in biomedical fields including anti-bacterial and anti-tumor. However, the influence of ZnO NPs on MM cells is still unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of ZnO NPs on MM cell (a human myeloma-derived RPMI8226 cell line) death in vitro and the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

The morphology of ZnO NPs was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the inhibitory and apoptotic effect of ZnO NPs on human MM cells was monitored by a CCK-8 method and an Annexin V-FITC/PI assay. Meanwhile, the morphological change in the cells after exposure to ZnO NPs was observed by a light field microscope. Moreover, the effects of ZnO NPs on the ATP level, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and apoptosis were separately explored by the DCFH-DA fluorescent probe, flow cytometry, and ATP bioluminescence assay. Moreover, the expression of cytochrome C (Cyt-C), Apaf-1, Caspase-9 and Caspase-3 at mRNA and protein levels was further determined by using quantitative PCR (Q-PCR) and western blotting. In the present study, the human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were used as normal control samples for the relevant experiment.

RESULTS

The results indicated that ZnO NPs could significantly inhibit human MM cell proliferation and cell death in a time- and dose-dependent manner in vitro, and this outcome can be confirmed by cell morphology and apoptosis assay. Meanwhile, the results also showed that ZnO NPs could effectively increase ROS production and decrease ATP levels in human MM cells. ZnO NPs could also significantly elevate the expression of Cyt-C, Apaf-1, Caspase-9 and Caspase-3 at mRNA and protein levels, leading to cell death. By contrast, ZnO NPs showed little cytotoxic influence on PBMCs.

CONCLUSION

ZnO NPs can significantly induce human MM cell death in a time- and dose-dependent manner in vitro, decrease the ATP production and enhance the ROS generation. ZnO NPs can also increase Cyt-C, Apaf-1, Caspase-9 and Caspase-3 expression at mRNA and protein levels in human MM cells, and initiate MM cell apoptosis, indicating that Cyt-C, Apaf-1, Caspase-9 and Caspase-3 play crucial roles in ZnO NPs-induced, mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in human MM cells. Overall, ZnO NPs may be a potential agent in treating human multiple myeloma in clinical practice.

Bioactivities of Geranium wallichianum Leaf Extracts Conjugated with Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

This study attempts to obtain and test the bioactivities of leaf extracts from a medicinal plant, Geranium wallichianum (GW), when conjugated with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs). The integrity of leaf extract-conjugated ZnONPs (GW-ZnONPs) was confirmed using various techniques, including Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, energy-dispersive spectra (EDS), scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The size of ZnONPs was approximately 18 nm, which was determined by TEM analysis. Additionally, the energy-dispersive spectra (EDS) revealed that NPs have zinc in its pure form. Bioactivities of GW-ZnONPs including antimicrobial potentials, cytotoxicity, antioxidative capacities, inhibition potentials against α-amylase, and protein kinases, as well as biocompatibility were intensively tested and confirmed. Altogether, the results revealed that GW-ZnONPs are non-toxic, biocompatible, and have considerable potential in biological applications.

A novel chemoprotective effect of tiopronin against diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in rats: Role of ASK1/P38 MAPK-P53 signalling cascade

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Oxidative stress contributes significantly to HCC pathogenesis. In this study, we investigated the possible chemoprotective effect of the thiol group-containing compound, tiopronin, against HCC induced chemically by diethylnitrosamine (DENA) in rats. In addition, we elucidated the possible underlying molecular mechanism. Adult male Wistar rats were divided into: Control group, DENA-treated group and tiopronin + DENA-treated group. Liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP, albumin, total and direct bilirubin) as well as alpha fetoprotein (AFP) concentration were measured in the sera of samples. Oxidative stress biomarkers such as malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, catalase and glutathione peroxidase were measured in the liver tissue homogenates. Determination of the phosphorylated apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (phospho-ASK1), phospho-P38 and phospho-P53 proteins by western blotting, caspase 3 by immunofluorescence in addition to histopathological examination of the liver tissues were performed. Our results showed that tiopronin prevented the DENA-induced elevation of the liver function enzymes and AFP. It also preserved the activities of antioxidant enzymes as well as providing protection from the appearance of HCC histopathological features. Interestingly, tiopronin significantly decreased the expression level of phospho-ASK1, phospho-P38 and phospho-P53, caspase 3 in the liver tissues. These novel findings suggested that tiopronin is an antioxidant drug with a chemoprotective effect against DENA-induced HCC through maintaining the normal activity of ASK1/ P38 MAPK/ P53 signalling pathway.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized from Fraxinus rhynchophylla extract by green route method attenuates the chemical and heat induced neurogenic and inflammatory pain models in mice

Fraxinus rhynchophylla belongs to the family of Oleaceae and also called as Chinese ash wood possesses various pharmacological properties such as neuroprotective, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, etc. Therefore we synthesized ZnO nanoparticles using Fraxinus rhynchophylla wood extract as reducing and capping agent. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized with the aid of UV-Spec, DLS, FT-IR and TEM analysis. Green synthesized ZnO nanoparticles were then assessed for anti-nociceptive property by using various nociception models such as thermal stress-induced, acetic acid, glutamate, capsaicin, and formalin-induced nociception. The sedative effect of synthesized ZnO nanoparticles was evaluated with an open field test. UV-Spectroscopic analysis confirms the formation of ZnO nanoparticles and the characterization studies DLS, FT-IR, and TEM analysis prove it has ideal nanoparticle can be used as a nano-drug. Results of both thermal stress-induced methods hot plate and tail immersion nociception test verified the synthesized ZnO nanoparticles are a potent antinociceptive drug. ZnO nanoparticles effectively reduced the abdominal writhes in acetic acid-induced nociception and it also significantly decreased the nociception activity in another glutamate, capsaicin, and formalin-induced nociception models. Open field experiment proved that synthesized ZnO nanoparticles are less sedative compared to the standard antinociceptive drug morphine. Overall our findings authentically confirm ZnO nanoparticles synthesized from Fraxinus rhynchophylla wood extract is a novel drug that persuasively reduces nociception in different nociceptive induced mice models and can be the best alternative for allopathic drugs which renders severe side effects.

Anticancer potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles against cervical carcinoma cells synthesized via biogenic route using aqueous extract of Gracilaria edulis

Development of novel approach for cancer therapy, sparing healthy normal cells overcoming the limitation of available therapies is of prime importance for cervical cancer treatment. Recently metal oxide based chemotherapeutics has emanated as a promising approach for cancer therapy. Hence, the present study was carried out to assess the anticancer potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) synthesized using biogenic source, aqueous extract of Gracilaria edulis. The prepared ZnONPs were characterized using UV-Visible spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, FESEM, EDX and HRTEM. The anticancer potential of ZnONPs against cervical cancer cell lines (SiHa cells) was evaluated using MTT and the mechanism of apoptosis was evaluated using various staining techniques. UV-Vis spectroscopy exhibited absorption band at 367 nm specific for ZnONPs and the average energy gap was calculated as 3.37 eV. Further characterization by XRD, TEM, and FESEM illustrated the formation of wurtzite structure (hexagonal phase) with size ranging between 20 and 50 nm. EDS of SEM analysis confirmed the presence of Zn and O, which was further substantiated by XPS analysis. PL emission studies showed UV emission peak at 387 nm and broad visible emission peak at 520 nm. Zeta potential value of -28.2 mV depicted the stability of ZnONPs in the dispersion medium. Results of anticancer potential illustrated that ZnONPs exhibited cytotoxic effect against SiHa cells in a dose dependent manner with IC₅₀ value of 35 ± 0.03 μg/ml. AO/EtBr dual staining, JC-1 staining, Hoechst 33258 nuclear staining and comet assay illustrated the ZnONPs induced ROS mediated mitochondrial dependent apoptotic cell death in SiHa cells. Further, flow cytometric analysis using Annexin V/FITC dye demonstrated that ZnONPs induced both apoptotic and necrotic mediated death in SiHa cells. Over all the results conclude that ZnONPs synthesized using algal sources might act as a new medicinal approach for the treatment of cervical carcinoma in conjugation with the current therapy.

Apoptosis and oxidative stress as relevant mechanisms of antitumor activity and genotoxicity of ZnO-NPs alone and in combination with N-acetyl cysteine in tumor-bearing mice

Background: Several in vitro studies have revealed that zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) were able to target cancerous cells selectively with minimal damage to healthy cells.

Purpose: In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the antitumor activity of ZnO-NPs in Ehrlich solid carcinoma (ESC) bearing mice by measuring their effect on the expression levels of P53, Bax and Bcl2 genes as indicators of apoptotic induction in tumor tissues. Also, we assessed the potential ameliorative or potentiation effect of 100 mg/kg N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) in combination with ZnO-NPs.

Materials and methods: ESC bearing mice were gavaged with three different doses of ZnO-NPs (50, 300 and 500 mg/kg body weight) alone or in combination with NAC for seven consecutive days. In addition to measuring the tumor size, pathological changes, zinc content, oxidative stress biomarkers and DNA damage in ESC, normal muscle, liver and kidney tissues were assessed.

Results: Data revealed a significant reduction in tumor size with a significant increase in p53 and Bax and decrease in Bcl2 expression levels in the tissues of ZnO-NPs treated ESC bearing mice. Moreover, a significant elevation of MDA accompanied with a significant reduction of CAT and GST. Also, a marked increase in all comet assay parameters was detected in ZnO-NPs treated groups. On the other hand, the combined treatment with ZnO-NPs and NAC significantly reduced reactive oxygen species production and DNA damage in liver and kidney tissues in all ZnO-NPs treated groups.

Conclusion: ZnO-NPs exhibited a promising anticancer efficacy in ESC, this could serve as a foundation for developing new cancer therapeutics. Meanwhile, the combined treatment with ZnO-NPs and NAC could act as a protective method for the healthy normal tissue against ZnO-NPs toxicity, without affecting its antitumor activity.

The antibacterial and anticancer properties of zinc oxide coated iron oxide nanotextured composites

Core-shell α-Fe₂O₃-ZnO structures of different nanotextured morphology were synthesized through wet chemical routes using different solvents like ethanol, ethanolamine, water and acetaldehyde. Morphological tuning using different solvents resulted in the formation of different shapes, such as disc, spindle, rod and sphere (abbreviated as FZ-ND, FZ-NSP, FZ-NR and FZ-NS, respectively). Structural, morphological and compositional characterization of these nanoparticles (NPs) has been carried out. Antibacterial efficacy of the synthesized NPs was checked against Gram negative V. cholerae N16961 (VcN16961) and Gram positive S. aureus bacteria by recording optical density (OD) at different time points. Among the NPs tested, FZ-NSP was found to be the most effective against VcN16961, while FZ-NR showed maximum efficacy against S. aureus, implying the importance of nanotextured surface as well as the morphology in the manifestation of antibacterial activity. The kinetics of growth for both the bacteria has been modelled using logistic approach. Cytotoxicity was evaluated through MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay against human breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF-7), human hepatocarcinoma cell line (HepG2) and against normal human embryonic kidney cell line (HEK-293). The lesser toxicity of α-Fe₂O₃-ZnO towards HEK-293 and the potent anticancer activity against MCF-7 and HepG2 cells underline its applicability as anticancer agent. With continued improvement of nanotechnology, this study may pave the way for designing and construction of various morphologically diverse, nanotextured materials with desired functional attributes.

Zinc overload mediated by zinc oxide nanoparticles as innovative anti-tumor agent

The predicted global cancer burden is expected to surpass 20 million new cancer cases by 2025. Despite recent advancement in tumor therapy, a successful cancer treatment remains challenging. The emerging field of nanotechnology offers great opportunities for diagnosis, imaging, as well as treatment of cancer. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NP) were shown to exert selective cytotoxicity against tumor cells via a yet unknown mechanism, most likely involving the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These nanoparticles are a promising therapeutic opportunity as zinc is a nontoxic trace element and its application in medically-related products is considered to be safe. We could show that ZnO NP can exert cytotoxic effects on several human tumor cell lines. There can be found ZnO NP concentrations which selectively damage tumor cells while human fibroblasts do not sustain lasting damage. Cytotoxicity is attributable to the release of zinc ions from the nanoparticles outside the cells as well as to a direct cell-nanoparticle interaction. This involves uptake of the particles into the tumor cells. With a silica shell the cytotoxicity can be delayed which can help in the future for a safe transport in the blood stream. Cellular damage finally cumulates in apoptotic cell death via zinc overload within 48 h after treatment with ZnO NP. A therapeutical perspective could be the targeted accumulation of ZnO NP at the tumor side to induce local zinc overload that substantially damages the tumor cells with no or low side effects. We suggest further studies to explore the potential of ZnO NP as an innovative anti-tumor agent.

Anticancer activity of Yashada Bhasma (bioactive nanoparticles of zinc): A human pancreatic cancer cell line study

Background:

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Efforts to improve cancer treatment through nanotechnology are at the developmental stage, and it will be gracious if the drug with anticancer property itself is a nanoparticle. Bhasma is organomineral complexes which are bioactive nanoparticles. YashadaBhasma (incinerated processed zinc) is widely used in Ayurveda for various diseases, and there are evidence that ZnO nanoparticles are promising antitumor agent. However, no studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of YashadaBhasma in pancreatic cancer.

Materials and Methods:

Two types of test drugs, ParadaMaritaYashadaBhasma (PMY) and VanaspatiJaritaMaritaYashadaBhasma (JMY), were prepared as per the guidelines of pharmaceutics of Ayurveda. Particle size analyses of YashadaBhasma and Zeta potential study was carried out initially. Further human pancreatic cancer cell line (MIA PaCa-2) study was done using in vitro sulforhodamine B assay, keeping adriamycinas control. After 48 h of incubation, antiproliferative effects were assessed.

Results:

JMY and adriamycin showed dose-dependent growth inhibition of cancer cells. Both YashadaBhasma samples showed a cytostatic effect at this concentration.

Conclusion:

The study leads to new avenues for cancer treatment by developing such unique and highly effective bioactive nano-sized therapeutic agent.

Biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Albizia lebbeck stem bark, and evaluation of its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities on human breast cancer cell lines

Background

Biocompatibility and stability of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesized using plants is an interesting research area of study in nanotechnology, due to its wide applications in biomedical, industrial, cell imaging, and biosensor fields. The present study reports the novel green synthesis of stable ZnO NPs using various concentrations of zinc nitrate (0.01M, 0.05M, 0.1M) and Albizia lebbeck stem bark extracts as an efficient chelating agent. Antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antiproliferative activities of the synthesized NPs on human breast cancer cell lines were evaluated using different assays.

Methods

Characterization of the synthesized ZnO NPs were carried out using various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Antimicrobial activity evaluation using disc diffusion method, antioxidant activity using hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) free radical scavenging assay and cytotoxic activity on MDA-MB 231 and MCF-7 using tryphan blue dye exclusion and MTT assay.

Results

The UV–vis spectroscopy result revealed an absorption peak in the range of 370 nm. The involvements of A. lebbeck bioactive compounds in the stabilization of the ZnO NPs were confirmed by X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared analysis. Zeta sizer studies showed an average size of 66.25 nm with a polydisparity index of 0.262. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses results revealed irregular spherical morphology and the presence of primarily Zn, C, O, Na, P, and K, respectively. The biosynthesized ZnO NPs revealed strong antimicrobial potentials against various gram-negative and gram-positive bacterial pathogens. Antioxidant activities carried out using H₂O₂ free radical scavenging assay revealed higher IC50 values of 48.5, 48.7, and 60.2 µg/mL for 0.1M, 0.05M, and 0.01M ZnO NPs, respectively. Moreover, the biosynthesized ZnO NPs showed significant cytotoxic effects on MDA-MB 231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines (P< 0.001, n≥3) in a concentration-dependent manner.

Conclusion

Overall, various concentrations of ZnO NPs were synthesized through a stable, simple, and eco-friendly green route via the use of A. lebbeck stem bark extract. The biosynthesized ZnO NPs showed strong antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activity against strongly and weakly metastatic breast cancer cell lines.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles induce toxicity in CAL 27 oral cancer cell lines by activating PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy

Background

Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (tongue cancer) is one of the most common malignancies in the oral maxillofacial region. The tumor easily relapses after surgery, and the prognosis remains poor. Recently, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were shown to target multiple cancer cell types. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the anticancer effect of ZnO NPs on CAL 27 human tongue cancer cells and identify the role of PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy in this effect.

Materials and methods

We analyzed the dose-dependent cytotoxic effects of ZnO NPs on CAL 27 cells. Cells were cultured in media containing 0, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100 μg/mL ZnO NPs for 24 h. We further examined the intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, monodansylcadaverine intensity and mitochondrial membrane potential following the administration of 25 μg/mL ZnO NPs for 4, 8, 12, or 24 h and investigated the role of PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy in ZnO NP-induced toxicity in CAL 27 cells.

Results

The viability of CAL 27 cells decreased after treatment with increasing ZnO NP concentrations. The inhibitory concentration 50% of the ZnO NPs was calculated as 25 μg/mL. The ZnO NPs increased the intracellular reactive oxygen species levels and decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential in a time-dependent manner as well as activated the PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy process in CAL 27 cells.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, ZnO NPs may possess potential anticancer activity toward tongue cancer cells.

Berberine and zinc oxide-based nanoparticles for the chemo-photothermal therapy of lung adenocarcinoma

Organic/inorganic hydrid nanoparticles (NPs) composed of berberine (BER) and zinc oxide (ZnO) were developed for the therapy of lung cancers. Without the use of pharmaceutical excipients, NPs were fabricated with only dual anticancer agents (BER and ZnO) by facile blending method. The mean weight ratio between BER and ZnO in BER-ZnO NPs was 39:61 in this study. BER-ZnO NPs dispersed in water exhibited 200-300 nm hydrodynamic size under 5 mg/mL concentration. The exposure of both BER and ZnO in the outer layers of BER-ZnO NPs was identified by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. The amorphization of BER and the maintenance of ZnO structure were observed in the results of X-ray powder diffractometer analysis. Improved antiproliferation efficacy, based on the chemo-photothermal therapeutic efficacy, of BER-ZnO NPs in A549 (human lung adenocarcinoma) cells was presented. According to the blood tests in rats after intravenous administration, BER-ZnO NPs did not induce severe hepatotoxicity, renal toxicity, and hemotoxicity. Developed BER-ZnO NPs can be used efficiently and safely for the chemo-photothermal therapy of lung cancers.