New liposomal doxorubicin nanoformulation for osteosarcoma: Drug release kinetic study based on thermo and pH sensitivity

A comparative study between curcumin and curcumin nanoparticles on reproductive performance and antioxidant system of aged roosters

Increased lipid peroxidation and decreased antioxidant status can result in reduced reproductive activity and fertility in aged male broiler breeders. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of curcumin supplements (natural or nanoparticles) on the sperm characteristics, antioxidant system, fertility, and hatchability of aged roosters (54-64 wk), and to estimate the relative bioavailability value (RBV) of nano-curcumin on the measured parameters including the hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST), motility, viability, sperm count, volume, the concentration of testosterone, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), diameter of the spermatogenic tube (DST), epithelium thickness (EpiTh), spermatogonia count (SPcount), fertility, hatchability, and relative weight of testis (RW-testis). A total of 30 roosters were individually caged and randomly assigned to 5 treatments comprising control (without curcumin as the basal diet), basal diet + 15 mg/kg curcumin (CUR15), basal diet + 30 mg/kg curcumin (CUR30), basal diet + 15 mg/kg nano-curcumin (Nano15), and basal diet + 30 mg/kg nano-curcumin (Nano30) for 10 wk. The slope ratio method was used to estimate the bioavailability of nano-curcumin by regressing each response on supplemental curcumin intake. Increasing dietary curcumin (P < 0.001) elicited a linear response to all studied traits. The RBV for volume, viability, motility, HOST, RW-testis, and GPx were estimated as 135 (CI: 115-156%), 143 (CI: 114-173%), 159 (CI: 122-196%), 132 (CI: 107-157%), 195 (CI: 126-264%), 176 (CI: 103-249%), and 178% (28-328%), respectively. Our findings revealed that curcumin nanoparticles enhance the reproductive efficiency of aged breeder roosters. In addition, the curcumin nanoparticles RBV exceeded that of natural curcumin, suggesting that lower concentrations of curcumin nanoparticles could have a significant effect on reproductive characteristics.

Targeting the EphA2 pathway: could it be the way for bone sarcomas?

Bone sarcomas are malignant tumors of mesenchymal origin. Complete surgical resection is the cornerstone of multidisciplinary treatment. However, advanced, unresectable forms remain incurable. A crucial step towards addressing this challenge involves comprehending the molecular mechanisms underpinning tumor progression and metastasis, laying the groundwork for innovative precision medicine-based interventions. We previously showed that tyrosine kinase receptor Ephrin Type-A Receptor 2 (EphA2) is overexpressed in bone sarcomas. EphA2 is a key oncofetal protein implicated in metastasis, self-renewal, and chemoresistance. Molecular, genetic, biochemical, and pharmacological approaches have been developed to target EphA2 and its signaling pathway aiming to interfere with its tumor-promoting effects or as a carrier for drug delivery. This review synthesizes the main functions of EphA2 and their relevance in bone sarcomas, providing strategies devised to leverage this receptor for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, with a focus on its applicability in the three most common bone sarcoma histotypes: osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and Ewing sarcoma.

Phytocompounds and Nanoformulations for Anticancer Therapy: A Review

Cancer is a complex disease that affects millions of people and remains a major public health problem worldwide. Conventional cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy, have limited achievements and multiple drawbacks, among which are healthy tissue damage and multidrug-resistant phenotype onset. Increasing evidence shows that many plants' natural products, as well as their bioactive compounds, have promising anticancer activity and exhibit minimal toxicity compared to conventional anticancer drugs. However, their widespread use in cancer therapy is severely restricted by limitations in terms of their water solubility, absorption, lack of stability, bioavailability, and selective targeting. The use of nanoformulations for plants' natural product transportation and delivery could be helpful in overcoming these limitations, thus enhancing their therapeutic efficacy and providing the basis for improved anticancer treatment strategies. The present review is aimed at providing an update on some phytocompounds (curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, and cannabinoids, among others) and their main nanoformulations showing antitumor activities, both in vitro and in vivo, against such different human cancer types as breast and colorectal cancer, lymphomas, malignant melanoma, glioblastoma multiforme, and osteosarcoma. The intracellular pathways underlying phytocompound anticancer activity and the main advantages of nanoformulation employment are also examined. Finally, this review critically analyzes the research gaps and limitations causing the limited success of phytocompounds' and nanoformulations' clinical translation.

Development and in vitro antiviral activity of ivermectin liposomes as a potential drug carrier system

This study aimed to assess and compare diverse formulations of ivermectin-loaded liposomes, employing lipid film hydration and ethanol injection methods. Three lipids (DOPC, SPC, and DSPC) were used in predetermined molar ratios. A total of 18 formulations were created, and a factorial design determined the optimal formulation based on particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. The average mean particle size, PDI and zeta potential of the selected formulations (F1, F2, F7, F9, and F11) was, respectively, 196.40 ± 44.60 nm, 0.39 ± 0.09, and -40.24 ± 9.17. The encapsulation efficiency exceeded 80%, with a mean loading capacity of 4.00 ± 1.70%. In vitro studies included transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, drug release, and antiviral activity assessments against SARS-CoV-2. The liposomal formulations demonstrated superior antiviral activity compared to free ivermectin, as indicated by lower IC50 values. The results of this study emphasize the effectiveness of ivermectin-loaded liposomes in inhibiting viral activity, highlighting their potential as promising candidates for antiviral therapy. The findings suggest that the strategic use of liposomes as drug carriers can significantly modulate and improve the antiviral properties of ivermectin, offering a novel approach to harnessing its full therapeutic potential. Collectively, these results provide a robust foundation for further exploration of ivermectin as a viral protection tool and optimization of its delivery mechanisms.

Fmoc-FF hydrogels and nanogels for improved and selective delivery of dexamethasone in leukemic cells and diagnostic applications

Dexamethasone (DEX) is a synthetic analogue of cortisol commonly used for the treatment of different pathological conditions, comprising cancer, ocular disorders, and COVID-19 infection. Its clinical use is hampered by the low solubility and severe side effects due to its systemic administration. The capability of peptide-based nanosystems, like hydrogels (HGs) and nanogels (NGs), to serve as vehicles for the passive targeting of active pharmaceutical ingredients and the selective internalization into leukemic cells has here been demonstrated. Peptide based HGs loaded with DEX were formulated via the "solvent-switch" method, using Fmoc-FF homopeptide as building block. Due to the tight interaction of the drug with the peptidic matrix, a significant stiffening of the gel (G' = 67.9 kPa) was observed. The corresponding injectable NGs, obtained from the sub-micronization of the HG, in the presence of two stabilizing agents (SPAN®60 and TWEEN®60, 48/52 w/w), were found to be stable up to 90 days, with a mean diameter of 105 nm. NGs do not exhibit hemolytic effects on human serum, moreover they are selectively internalized by RS4;11 leukemic cells over healthy PBMCs, paving the way for the generation of new diagnostic strategies targeting onco-hematological diseases.

Effects of Anionic Liposome Delivery of All-Trans-Retinoic Acid on Neuroblastoma Cell Differentiation

All-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) has long been known to affect cell growth and differentiation. To improve ATRA's therapeutic efficacy and pharmacodynamics, several delivery systems have been used. In this study, free ATRA and anionic-liposome-encapsulated ATRA were compared for their effects on SK-N-SH human neuroblastoma cell growth and differentiation. Anionic liposomes made of L-α-phosphatidylcholine (PC) and L-α-phosphatidic acid (PA), empty (PC-PA) and loaded with ATRA (PC-PA-ATRA), were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and electrophoretic mobility measurements, and drug entrapment efficiency (EE%) was measured to evaluate the applicability of the new colloidal formulation. The results of brightfield microscopy and cell growth curves indicated that ATRA, whether free or encapsulated, reduced growth and induced differentiation, resulting in SK-N-SH cells changing from epithelioid to neuronal-like morphologies, and producing a significant increase in neurite growth. To further characterize the neuro-differentiation of SK-N-SH cells, the expression of βIII-Tubulin and synaptophysin and mitochondria localization were analyzed via immunofluorescence. Increased expression of neuronal markers and a peculiar localization of mitochondria in the neuritic extensions were apparent both in ATRA- and PC-PA-ATRA-differentiated cells. As a whole, our results strongly indicate that ATRA treatment, by any means, can induce the differentiation of parent SK-N-SH, and they highlight that its encapsulation in anionic liposomes increases its differentiation ability in terms of the percentage of neurite-bearing cells. Interestingly, our data also suggest an unexpected differentiation capability of anionic liposomes per se. This work highlights the importance of developing and carefully testing novel delivery nanocarriers, which are a necessary first "step" in the development of new therapeutic settings.

Peptide-Hydrogel Nanocomposites for Anti-Cancer Drug Delivery

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, but conventional anticancer drugs have side effects, mainly due to their non-specific distribution in the body in both cancerous and healthy cells. To address this relevant issue and improve the efficiency of anticancer drugs, increasing attention is being devoted to hydrogel drug-delivery systems for different kinds of cancer treatment due to their high biocompatibility and stability, low side effects, and ease of modifications. To improve the therapeutic efficiency and provide multi-functionality, different types of nanoparticles (NPs) can be incorporated within the hydrogels to form smart hydrogel nanocomposites, benefiting the advantages of both counterparts and suitable for advanced anticancer applications. Despite many papers on non-peptide hydrogel nanocomposites, there is limited knowledge about peptide-based nanocomposites, specifically in anti-cancer drug delivery. The aim of this short but comprehensive review is, therefore, to focus attention on the synergies resulting from the combination of NPs with peptide-based hydrogels. This review, which includes a survey of recent advances in this kind of material, does not aim to be an exhaustive review of hydrogel technology, but it instead highlights recent noteworthy publications and discusses novel perspectives to provide valuable insights into the promising synergic combination of peptide hydrogels and NPs for the design of novel anticancer drug delivery systems.

Reduction of Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity by Co-Administration of Smart Liposomal Doxorubicin and Free Quercetin: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

Doxorubicin is one of the most effective chemotherapeutic agents; however, it has various side effects, such as cardiotoxicity. Therefore, novel methods are needed to reduce its adverse effects. Quercetin is a natural flavonoid with many biological activities. Liposomes are lipid-based carriers widely used in medicine for drug delivery. In this study, liposomal doxorubicin with favorable characteristics was designed and synthesized by the thin-film method, and its physicochemical properties were investigated by different laboratory techniques. Then, the impact of the carrier, empty liposomes, free doxorubicin, liposomal doxorubicin, and quercetin were analyzed in animal models. To evaluate the interventions, measurements of cardiac enzymes, oxidative stress and antioxidant markers, and protein expression were performed, as well as histopathological studies. Additionally, cytotoxicity assay and cellular uptake were carried out on H9c2 cells. The mean size of the designed liposomes was 98.8 nm, and the encapsulation efficiency (EE%) was about 85%. The designed liposomes were anionic and pH-sensitive and had a controlled release pattern with excellent stability. Co-administration of liposomal doxorubicin with free quercetin to rats led to decreased weight loss, creatine kinase (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), while it increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase enzymes in their left ventricles. Additionally, it changed the expression of NOX1, Rac1, Rac1-GTP, SIRT3, and Bcl-2 proteins, and caused tissue injury and cell cytotoxicity. Our data showed that interventions can increase antioxidant capacity, reduce oxidative stress and apoptosis in heart tissue, and lead to fewer complications. Overall, the use of liposomal doxorubicin alone or the co-administration of free doxorubicin with free quercetin showed promising results.

A new approach to the development and assessment of doxorubicin-loaded nanoliposomes for the treatment of osteosarcoma in 2D and 3D cell culture systems

Doxorubicin (DOX) is an effective anticancer drug used for the treatment of osteosarcoma. Liposomal nanocarriers for doxorubicin administration are now regarded as one of the most promising approaches to overcome multiple drug resistance and adverse side effects. The use of hydrogel as a 3D scaffold to mimic the cellular environment and provide comparable biological conditions for deeper investigations of cellular processes has attracted considerable attention. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of liposomal doxorubicin on the osteosarcoma cell line in the presence of alginate hydrogel as a three-dimensional scaffold. Different liposomal formulations based on cholesterol, phospholipids, and surfactants containing doxorubicin were developed using the thin-layer hydration approach to improve therapeutic efficacy. The final selected formulation was superficially modified using DSPE-mPEG2000. A three-dimensional hydrogel culture model with appropriate structure and porosity was synthesized using sodium alginate and calcium chloride as crosslinks for hydrogel. Then, the physical properties of liposomal formulations, such as mechanical and porosity, were characterized. The toxicity of the synthesized hydrogel was also assessed. Afterward, the cytotoxicity of nanoliposomes was analyzed on the Saos-2 and HFF cell lines in the presence of a three-dimensional alginate scaffold using the MTT assay. The results indicated that the encapsulation efficiency, the amount of doxorubicin released within 8 h, the mean size of vesicles, and the surface charge were 82.2%, 33.0%, 86.8 nm, and -4.2 mv, respectively. As a result, the hydrogel scaffolds showed sufficient mechanical resistance and suitable porosity. The MTT assay demonstrated that the synthesized scaffold had no cytotoxicity against cells, while nanoliposomal DOX exhibited marked toxicity against the Saos-2 cell line in the 3D culture medium of alginate hydrogel compared to the free drug in the 2D culture medium. Our research showed that the 3D culture model physically resembles the cellular matrix, and nanoliposomal DOX with proper size could easily penetrate into cells and cause higher cytotoxicity compared to the 2D cell culture.

Nanobiotechnological approaches in osteosarcoma therapy: Versatile (nano)platforms for theranostic applications

Constructive achievements in the field of nanobiotechnology and their translation into clinical course have led to increasing attention towards evaluation of their use for treatment of diseases, especially cancer. Osteosarcoma (OS) is one of the primary bone malignancies that affects both males and females in childhood and adolescence. Like other types of cancers, genetic and epigenetic mutations account for OS progression and several conventional therapies including chemotherapy and surgery are employed. However, survival rate of OS patients remains low and new therapies in this field are limited. The purpose of the current review is to provide a summary of nanostructures used in OS treatment. Drug and gene delivery by nanoplatforms have resulted in an accumulation of therapeutic agents for tumor cell suppression. Furthermore, co-delivery of genes and drugs by nanostructures are utilized in OS suppression to boost immunotherapy. Since tumor cells have distinct features such as acidic pH, stimuli-responsive nanoparticles have been developed to appropriately target OS. Besides, nanoplatforms can be used for biosensing and providing phototherapy to suppress OS. Furthermore, surface modification of nanoparticles with ligands can increase their specificity and selectivity towards OS cells. Clinical translation of current findings suggests that nanoplatforms have been effective in retarding tumor growth and improving survival of OS patients.

Caveolin-Mediated Internalization of Fmoc-FF Nanogels in Breast Cancer Cell Lines

INTRODUCTION

Hydrogel nanoparticles, also known as nanogels (NGs), have been recently proposed as alternative supramolecular vehicles for the delivery of biologically relevant molecules like anticancer drugs and contrast agents. The inner compartment of peptide based NGs can be opportunely modified according to the chemical features of the cargo, thus improving its loading and release. A full understanding of the intracellular mechanism involved in nanogel uptake by cancer cells and tissues would further contribute to the potential diagnostic and clinical applications of these nanocarriers, allowing the fine tuning of their selectivity, potency, and activity. The structural characterization of nanogels were assessed by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Nanoparticles Tracking Analysis (NTA) analysis. Cells viability of Fmoc-FF nanogels was evaluated by MTT assay on six breast cancer cell lines at different incubation times (24, 48, and 72 h) and peptide concentrations (in the range 6.25 × 10^-4 ÷ 5·10^-3 × wt%). The cell cycle and mechanisms involved in Fmoc-FF nanogels intracellular uptake were evaluated using flow cytometry and confocal analysis, respectively. Fmoc-FF nanogels, endowed with a diameter of ~130 nm and a zeta potential of ~-20.0/-25.0 mV, enter cancer cells via caveolae, mostly those responsible for albumin uptake. The specificity of the machinery used by Fmoc-FF nanogels confers a selectivity toward cancer cell lines overexpressing the protein caveolin1 and efficiently performing caveolae-mediated endocytosis.

Liposomal Doxorubicin Kinetic Study in an In vitro 2D and 3D Tumor Model for Osteosarcoma in a Perfusion Bioreactor

BACKGROUND

In vivo drug screening in animal models is contrary to ethical values, costly and time-consuming. Traditional static in vitro models do not reflect the basic characteristics of bone tumor microenvironments; therefore, perfusion bioreactors, in particular, would be an applicable choice due to their advantages to regenerate versatile bone tumor models for studying in vitro novel drug delivery systems.

METHODS

In this study, an optimal drug formulation of liposomal doxorubicin was prepared, and the release kinetics of the drug and its toxicity effect on MG-63 bone cancer cell line were investigated in two-dimensional, static three-dimensional media on a PLGA/β-TCP scaffold and also in a dynamic media in a perfusion bioreactor. In this assay, the efficacy of the IC50 of this formulation which had been obtained in two-dimensional cell culture (= 0.1 μg/ml), was studied in static and dynamic threedimensional media after 3 and 7 days. Liposomes with good morphology and encapsulation efficiency of 95% had release kinetics of the Korsmeyer-Peppas model.

RESULTS

The results of cell growth before treatment and cell viability after treatment in all three environments were compared. Cell growth in 2D was rapid, while it was slow in static 3D conditions. In the dynamic 3D environment, it was significant compared to the static tumor models. Cell viability after 3 and 7 days from treatment was 54.73% and 13.39% in 2D conditions, 72.27% and 26.78% in the static 3D model, while 100% and 78.92% in the dynamic culture indicating the effect of drug toxicity over time, but drug resistance of 3D models compared to 2D culture. In the bioreactor, the formulation used in the mentioned concentration showed very small cytotoxicity demonstrating the dominance of mechanical stimuli on cell growth over drug toxicity.

CONCLUSION

Increasing drug resistance in 3D models compared to 2D models indicates the superiority of liposomal Dox over free form to reduce IC50 concentration.

Multifunctional PEGylated Niosomal Nanoparticle-Loaded Herbal Drugs as a Novel Nano-Radiosensitizer and Stimuli-Sensitive Nanocarrier for Synergistic Cancer Therapy

Nowadays, radiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for breast cancer. In order to overcome the radioresistance of cancer cells, radio-sensitizing agents can be used combined with irradiation to increase the therapeutic efficiency. Curcumin can enhance the radiosensitivity of cancer cells and decrease their viability by the accumulation of these cells in the G2 phase. The encapsulation of curcumin in a nanoniosomal delivery system increases aqueous solubility and bioavailability, resulting in increased radio sensitivity. The present study aimed to enhance the radio-sensitizing effect of the curcumin-containing nanoniosome (Cur-Nio) when combined with irradiation. Thus, curcumin (0.5 mg ml⁻¹) was loaded on a PEGylated nanoniosome containing Tween 60, cholesterol, DOTAP, and 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-poly(ethylene glycol) (DSPE-PEG) (at ratios of 70:30:10:5, respectively) by the thin-film hydration method. The particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and drug-release rate of formulated nanoniosomes were determined. In order to assess cytotoxicity and apoptosis, different doses of irradiation along with various concentrations of free curcumin and Cur-Nio (single or in combination with irradiation) were treated with breast cancer cells. The particle size and zeta potential of Cur-Nio were reported to be 117.5 nm and −15.1 mV, respectively. The entrapment efficiency (EE%) and loading capacities were 72.3% and 6.68%, respectively. The drug-release rate during 6 h was 65.9%. Cell survival in the presence of curcumin at doses of 1 and 3 Gy showed a significant reduction compared with cells irradiated at 48 h and 72 h (p < 0.000). Also, the rate of cytotoxicity and apoptosis was significantly higher in cells treated with the combination of curcumin-containing nanoniosomes and irradiation in comparison with those treated with free curcumin. These findings indicate that the efficacy of pre-treatment with Cur-Nio as a radiosensitizer during radiotherapy enhances irradiation-induced breast cancer cell apoptosis and is a useful strategy to increase the effectiveness of breast cancer therapy.

pH-sensitive nanoliposomes for passive and CXCR-4-mediated marine yessotoxin delivery for cancer therapy

Background: Yessotoxin (YTX), a marine-derived drug, was encapsulated in PEGylated pH-sensitive nanoliposomes, covalently functionalized (strategy I) with SDF-1α and by nonspecific adsorption (strategy II), to actively target chemokine receptor CXCR-4. Methods: Cytotoxicity to normal human epithelial cells (HK-2) and prostate (PC-3) and breast (MCF-7) adenocarcinoma models, with different expression levels of CXCR-4, were tested. Results: Strategy II exerted the highest cytotoxicity toward cancer cells while protecting normal epithelia. Acid pH-induced fusion of nanoliposomes seemed to serve as a primary route of entry into MCF-7 cells but PC-3 data support an endocytic pathway for their internalization. Conclusion: This work describes an innovative hallmark in the current marine drug clinical pipeline, as the developed nanoliposomes are promising candidates in the design of groundbreaking marine flora-derived anticancer nanoagents.

A facile aqueous production of bisphosphonated-polyelectrolyte functionalized magnetite nanoparticles for pH-specific targeting of acidic-bone cells

Bone malignancy treatment is being hindered due to the insufficient selectivity of therapeutic nanoparticles towards malignant bone sites. Polyelectrolyte functionalized magnetic nanoparticles having dually specific pH-sensing ability and bisphosphonate moieties, can be an effective solution for selective targeting of bone malignancies. First, polyelectrolyte was prepared via N-carboxycitraconyzation of chitosan (NCCS) followed by successive functionalization with alendronic acid (AL) and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). Then, Fe3O4-NCCS-FITC-AL nanoparticles were synthesized by a facile one-step microwave-assisted aqueous method via in situ surface functionalization. The formation, crystal structure, and surface conjugation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles with polyelectrolytic stabilizer were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analyses. Synthesized Fe3O4-NCCS-FITC-AL nanoparticles were superparamagnetic, colloidally stable and highly hemocompatible under physiological conditions. Moreover, at pH 5.0, Fe3O4-NCCS-FITC-AL nanoparticles formed a precipitate due to inversion of their surface charge. This pH-dependent charge-inversion drastically changed the interactions with erythrocytes and bones. Selective membranolysis of erythrocytes occurred at pH 5.0. The designed nanoparticles showed enough potential for selective targeting of pathological bone sites in early-stage magnetofluorescent imaging and as a therapeutics carrier to treat malignant bone diseases.

Targeted Delivery of Chemotherapeutic Agents for Osteosarcoma Treatment

Since osteosarcoma (OS) is an aggressive bone cancer with unknown molecular pathways of etiology and pathophysiology, improving patient survival has long been a challenge. The conventional therapy is a complex multidisciplinary management that include radiotherapy, chemotherapy which followed by surgery and then post-operative adjuvant chemotherapy. However, they have severe side effects because the majority of the medicines used have just a minor selectivity for malignant tissue. As a result, treating tumor cells specifically without damaging healthy tissue is currently a primary goal in OS therapy. The coupling of chemotherapeutic drugs with targeting ligands is a unique therapy method for OS that, by active targeting, can overcome the aforementioned hurdles. This review focuses on advances in ligands and chemotherapeutic agents employed in targeted delivery to improve the capacity of active targeting and provide some insight into future therapeutic research for OS.

Application of Nanoparticles in Drug Delivery for the Treatment of Osteosarcoma: Focusing on the Liposomes

Osteosarcoma (OS) is one of the most common primary bone malignancies in children and adolescents. The toxicity to healthy tissues from conventional therapeutic strategies, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and drug resistance, severely affect OS patients' quality of life and cancer-specific outcomes. Many efforts have been made to develop various nanomaterial-based drug delivery systems with specific properties to overcome these limitations. Among the developed nanocarriers, liposomes are the most successful and promising candidates for providing targeted tumor therapy and enhancing the safety and therapeutic effect of encapsulated agents. Liposomes have low immunogenicity, high biocompatibility, prolonged half-life, active group protection, cell-like membrane structure, safety, and effectiveness. This review will discuss various nanomaterial-based carriers in cancer therapy and then the characteristics and design of liposomes with a particular focus on the targeting feature. We will also summarize the recent advances in the liposomal drug delivery system for OS treatment in preclinical and clinical studies.

Thermoresponsive chimeric nanocarriers as drug delivery systems

Chimeric or mixed nanosystems belong to the class of advanced therapeutics. Their distinctive characteristic compared with other types of nanoparticles is that they combine two or more different classes of biomaterials. These platforms have created a promising and versatile field of nanomedicine, incorporating materials that are biocompatible, such as lipids, but also functional, such as stimuli-responsive polymers. In the present work, thermoresponsive chimeric nanocarriers composed of l-α-phosphatidylcholine (Egg, Chicken) (EPC) phospholipids and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-b-poly(lauryl acrylate) (PNIPAM-b-PLA) block copolymers were designed and developed. Initially, model lipid bilayers with incorporated polymers and drug molecule TRAM-34 were built and studied for their thermodynamics, in order to assess the stability and functionality of the systems. Chimeric nanoparticles of EPC and PNIPAM-b-PLA were then developed and evaluated for their physicochemical properties in different medium conditions, as well as for their morphology. Polymer incorporation led to alterations in the properties and morphology of the nanoparticles, while interactions with serum proteins were absent. TRAM-34 was also incorporated inside the developed nanocarriers, followed by incorporation and release studies, which revealed the functionality of the system in elevated temperature conditions. Finally, in vitro studies on normal cells suggest the biocompatibility of these nanosystems. The proposed platforms are promising for further studies and applications in vitro and in vivo.

Drug Resistance in Osteosarcoma: Emerging Biomarkers, Therapeutic Targets and Treatment Strategies

Simple Summary

Despite the adoption of aggressive, multimodal treatment schedules, the cure rate of high-grade osteosarcoma (HGOS) has not significantly improved in the last 30 years. The most relevant problem preventing improvement in HGOS prognosis is drug resistance. Therefore, validated novel biomarkers that help to identify those patients who could benefit from innovative treatment options and the development of drugs enabling personalized therapeutic protocols are necessary. The aim of this review was to give an overview on the most relevant emerging drug resistance-related biomarkers, therapeutic targets and new agents or novel candidate treatment strategies, which have been highlighted and suggested for HGOS to improve the success rate of clinical trials.

Abstract

High-grade osteosarcoma (HGOS), the most common primary malignant tumor of bone, is a highly aggressive neoplasm with a cure rate of approximately 40–50% in unselected patient populations. The major clinical problems opposing the cure of HGOS are the presence of inherent or acquired drug resistance and the development of metastasis. Since the drugs used in first-line chemotherapy protocols for HGOS and clinical outcome have not significantly evolved in the past three decades, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic biomarkers and targeted treatment strategies, which may increase the currently available spectrum of cure modalities. Unresponsive or chemoresistant (refractory) HGOS patients usually encounter a dismal prognosis, mostly because therapeutic options and drugs effective for rescue treatments are scarce. Tailored treatments for different subgroups of HGOS patients stratified according to drug resistance-related biomarkers thus appear as an option that may improve this situation. This review explores drug resistance-related biomarkers, therapeutic targets and new candidate treatment strategies, which have emerged in HGOS. In addition to consolidated biomarkers, specific attention has been paid to the role of non-coding RNAs, tumor-derived extracellular vesicles, and cancer stem cells as contributors to drug resistance in HGOS, in order to highlight new candidate markers and therapeutic targets. The possible use of new non-conventional drugs to overcome the main mechanisms of drug resistance in HGOS are finally discussed.

Novel greenly synthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles compared to liposomes in drug delivery: in vivo investigation on Ehrlich solid tumor model

AIMS

In a previous work, a pure crystalline titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) were synthesized by green synthesis technique using Aloe vera leaves extract as reducing agent. In this work, we are aiming to investigate the potential of the novel greenly synthesized TiO2NPs as a nano-drug delivery system for the anticancer drug, doxorubicin (Dox).

MAIN METHODS

The cytotoxicity of the synthesized TiO2NPs was tested on two cell lines; normal human skin fibroblasts (HSF) and breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7). Then, Dox was loaded to both TiO2NPs (Dox- TiO2NPs) and liposomes (Dox-Lip). The loaded nanoparticles were characterized by TEM, FTIR, encapsulation efficiency, particle size and zeta potential measurement. Moreover, in vitro drug release was studied. Ehrlich tumor-bearing mice were used to study the anticancer activity of Dox- TiO2NPs, Dox-Lip, and aqueous Dox solution. Tumor volume, survival rate, and histopathological alterations were compared in all groups.

KEY FINDINGS

Dox was successfully loaded to both liposomes and TiO2NPs with an encapsulation efficiency of 77% and 65%, respectively. The particle size of Dox-TiO2NPs, and Dox-Lip was 14.53 nm, and 103 nm, respectively. The cumulative Dox released from TiO2NPs and liposomes after 4 h was 18 and 46%, respectively.Dox-Lip and Dox-TiO2NPs resulted in the highest degree of tumor growth inhibition with 100% and 83% of treated animals remained alive, respectively.

SIGNIFICANCE

The greenly synthesized TiO2NPs were proved to be as effective as liposomes in enhancing the anticancer activity of Dox.

Recent Developments in Nanomedicine for Pediatric Cancer

Cancer is the second biggest cause of death in children in the US. With the development of chemotherapy, there has been a substantial increase in the overall survival rate in the last 30 years. However, the overall mortality rate in children with cancer remains 25%, and many survivors experience a decline in overall quality of life and long-term adverse effects caused by treatments. Although cancer cells share common characteristics, pediatric cancers are different from adult cancers in their prevalence, mutation load, and drug response. Therefore, there is an urgent unmet need to develop therapeutic approaches specifically designed for children with cancer. Nanotechnology can potentially overcome the deficiencies of conventional methods of administering chemotherapy and ultimately improve clinical outcomes. The nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems can decrease the toxicity of therapy, provide a sustained or controlled drug release, improve the pharmacokinetic properties of loading contents, and achieve a targeted drug delivery with achievable modifications. Furthermore, therapeutic approaches based on combining nanoformulated drugs with novel immunotherapeutic agents are emerging. In this review, we discussed the recently developed nanotechnology-based strategies for treating blood and solid pediatric cancers.

Peptide-Based Hydrogels and Nanogels for Delivery of Doxorubicin

INTRODUCTION

The clinical use of the antitumoral drug doxorubicin (Dox) is reduced by its dose-limiting toxicity, related to cardiotoxic side effects and myelosuppression. In order to overcome these drawbacks, here we describe the synthesis, the structural characterization and the in vitro cytotoxicity assays of hydrogels (HGs) and nanogels (NGs) based on short peptide sequences loaded with Dox or with its liposomal formulation, Doxil.

METHODS

Fmoc-FF alone or in combination with (FY)3 or PEG8-(FY)3 peptides, at two different ratios (1/1 and 2/1 v/v), were used for HGs and NGs formulations. HGs were prepared according to the "solvent-switch" method, whereas NGs were obtained through HG submicronition by the top-down methodology in presence of TWEEN®60 and SPAN®60 as stabilizing agents. HGs gelation kinetics were assessed by Circular Dichroism (CD). Stability and size of NGs were studied using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) measurements. Cell viability of empty and filled Dox HGs and NGs was evaluated on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Moreover, cell internalization of the drug was evaluated using immunofluorescence assays.

RESULTS

Dox filled hydrogels exhibit a high drug loading content (DLC=0.440), without syneresis after 10 days. Gelation kinetics (20-40 min) and the drug release (16-28%) over time of HGs were found dependent on relative peptide composition. Dox filled NGs exhibit a DLC of 0.137 and a low drug release (20-40%) after 72 h. Empty HGs and NGs show a high cell viability (>95%), whereas Dox loaded ones significantly reduce cell viability after 24 h (49-57%) and 72 h (7-25%) of incubation, respectively. Immunofluorescence assays evidenced a different cell localization for Dox delivered through HGs and NGs with respect to the free drug.

DISCUSSION

A modulation of the Dox release can be obtained by changing the ratios of the peptide components. The different cellular localization of the drug loaded into HGs and NGs suggests an alternative internalization mechanism. The high DLC, the low drug release and preliminary in vitro results suggest a potential employment of peptide-based HGs and NGs as drug delivery tools.

Naringenin Nano-Delivery Systems and Their Therapeutic Applications

Naringenin (NRG) is a polyphenolic phytochemical belonging to the class of flavanones and is widely distributed in citrus fruits and some other fruits such as bergamot, tomatoes, cocoa, and cherries. NRG presents several interesting pharmacological properties, such as anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the therapeutic potential of NRG is hampered due to its hydrophobic nature, which leads to poor bioavailability. Here, we review a wide range of nanocarriers that have been used as delivery systems for NRG, including polymeric nanoparticles, micelles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), nanosuspensions, and nanoemulsions. These nanomedicine formulations of NRG have been applied as a potential treatment for several diseases, using a wide range of in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models and different routes of administration. From this review, it can be concluded that NRG is a potential therapeutic option for the treatment of various diseases such as cancer, neurological disorders, liver diseases, ocular disorders, inflammatory diseases, skin diseases, and diabetes when formulated in the appropriate nanocarriers.

Recent Advances in Nanotechnology-Based Diagnosis and Treatments of Human Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma (OSA) is a type of bone cancer that begins in the cells that form bones.OSA is a rare mesenchymal bone neoplasm derived from mesenchymal stem cells. Genome disorganization, chromosomal modifications, deregulation of tumor suppressor genes, and DNA repair defects are the factors most responsible for OSA development. Despite significant advances in the diagnosing and treatment of OSA, patients' overall survival has not improved within the last twenty years. Lately, advances in modern nanotechnology have spurred development in OSA management and offered several advantages to overcome the drawbacks of conventional therapies. This technology has allowed the practical design of nanoscale devices combined with numerous functional molecules, including tumor-specific ligands, antibodies, anti-cancer drugs, and imaging probes. Thanks to their small sizes, desirable drug encapsulation efficiency, and good bioavailability, functionalized nanomaterials have found wide-spread applications for combating OSA progression. This review invokes the possible utility of engineered nanomaterials in OSA diagnosis and treatment, motivating the researchers to seek new strategies for tackling the challenges associated with it.

Design strategies and evolving role of biomaterial assisted treatment of osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is the most commonly diagnosed form of bone cancer. It is characterized by a high risk of developing lung metastasis as the disease progresses. Standard treatment includes combination of surgical intervention, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, the non-specificity of potent chemotherapeutic agents often leads to major side effects. In this review, we discuss the role of various classes of biomaterials, including both organic as well as inorganic in realizing the local and systemic delivery of therapeutic agents like drugs, radioisotopes and even gene silencing agents to treat osteosarcoma. Biomaterial assisted unconventional therapies such as targeted therapy, nanotherapy, magnetic hyperthermia, gene therapy, photothermal and photodynamic therapies are also being explored. A wide variety of biomaterials including lipids, carbon-based materials, polymers, silica, bioactive glass, hydroxyapatite and metals are designed as delivery systems with the desired loading efficiency, release profile, and on-demand delivery. Among others, liposomal carriers have attracted a great deal of attention due to their capability to encapsulate both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs. Polymeric systems have high drug loading efficiency and stability and can even be tailored to achieve desired size and physiochemical properties. Carbon-based systems can also be seen as an upcoming class of therapeutics with great potential in treating different types of cancer. Inorganic materials like silica nanoparticles have high drug payload owing to their mesoporous structure. On the other hand, ceramic materials like bioactive glass and hydroxyapatite not only act as excellent delivery vectors but also participate in osteo-regeneration activity. These multifunctional biomaterials are also being investigated for their theranostic abilities to monitor cancer ablation. This review systematically discusses the vast landscape of biomaterials along with their challenges and respective opportunities for osteosarcoma therapy.

A multiple drug loaded, functionalized pH-sensitive nanocarrier as therapeutic and epigenetic modulator for osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is a malignant condition affecting adolescents and children more than adults. Nanobiomedicine has opened up several avenues which have increased therapeutic efficiencies than the conventional treatment for the same. In the current study, a novel organic nanoparticle was devised conjugated with bisphosphonate zoledronic acid which has an affinity for bone tissues. Moreover, the nanoparticle was loaded with multiple anti-cancer drugs like gemcitabine and epirubicin. The nanoparticles were characterized by microscopic analysis, entrapment and loading efficiencies, bone affinity studies, in-vitro release studies, cytotoxicity studies and finally in-vivo tumor regression studies. Bone affinity studies depicted a high affinity of zoledronic acid towards bone powder. The nanoparticle exhibited a nanosize dimension, high entrapment and loading efficiencies with uniform symmetry devoid of agglomeration. The in-vitro release experiments showed a measured release of drugs over a longer time without any hint of burst release. However, the release was comparatively for a longer duration in acidic pH and normal physiological pH which may be excellent for therapeutic efficiency. The cytotoxicity studies revealed enhanced cytotoxic effect for MG-63 cell lines in comparison of free drug or single drug combinations. Nonetheless, they proved to be cytocompatible with primary bone cells. Additionally, cellular uptake of nanoparticle was appreciably improved. Significant tumor (250%) regression was seen upon treatment with multiple drug loaded zoledronic acid conjugated nanoparticle, along with epigenetic changes affecting microRNA expressions. The increased cytotoxicity and increased cellular uptake may be of greater advantage in systemic osteosarcoma therapy. Combining all results, our study demonstrated substantial potential towards management of osteosarcoma.

Recent advances of drug delivery nanocarriers in osteosarcoma treatment

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant bone tumor mainly occurred in children and adolescence, and chemotherapy is limited for the side effects and development of drug resistance. Advances in nanotechnology and knowledge of cancer biology have led to significant improvements in developing tumor-targeted drug delivery nanocarriers, and some have even entered clinically application. Delivery of chemotherapeutic agents by functionalized smart nanocarriers could protect the drugs from rapid clearance, prolong the circulating time, and increase the drug concentration at tumor sites, thus enhancing the therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects. Various drug delivery nanocarriers have been designed and tested for osteosarcoma treatment, but most of them are still at experimental stage, and more further studies are needed before clinical application. In this present review, we briefly describe the types of commonly used nanocarriers in osteosarcoma treatment, and discuss the strategies for osteosarcoma-targeted delivery and controlled release of drugs. The application of nanoparticles in the management of metastatic osteosarcoma is also briefly discussed. The purpose of this article is to present an overview of recent progress of nanoscale drug delivery platforms in osteosarcoma, and inspire new ideas to develop more effective therapeutic options.

Hyaluronated liposomes containing H2S-releasing doxorubicin are effective against P-glycoprotein-positive/doxorubicin-resistant osteosarcoma cells and xenografts

Doxorubicin (dox) is one of the first-line drug in osteosarcoma treatment but its effectiveness is limited by the efflux pump P-glycoprotein (Pgp) and by the onset of cardiotoxicity. We previously demonstrated that synthetic doxs conjugated with a H₂S-releasing moiety (Sdox) were less cardiotoxic and more effective than dox against Pgp-overexpressing osteosarcoma cells. In order to increase the active delivery to tumor cells, we produced hyaluronic acid (HA)-conjugated liposomes containing Sdox (HA-Lsdox), exploiting the abundance of the HA receptor CD44 in osteosarcoma. HA-Lsdox showed favorable drug-release profile and higher toxicity in vitro and in vivo than dox or the FDA-approved liposomal dox Caelyx^® against Pgp-overexpressing osteosarcoma, displaying the same cardiotoxicity profile of Caelyx^®. Differently from dox, HA-Lsdox delivered the drug within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), inducing protein sulfhydration and ubiquitination, and activating a ER stress pro-apoptotic response mediated by CHOP. HA-Lsdox also sulfhydrated the nascent Pgp in the ER, reducing its activity. We propose HA-Lsdox as an innovative tool noteworthy to be tested in Pgp-overexpressing patients, who are frequently less responsive to standard treatments in which dox is one of the most important drugs.

Preparation and Evaluation of A Novel Liposomal Nano-Formulation in Metastatic Cancer Treatment Studies

Objective

Today, in clinical trials, we suffer from the lack of effective methods with minimal side effects to deliver medication. Thus, efforts to identify better conditions for delivery of biomedical drugs seem necessary. The purpose of this study was to design a new liposomal formula for transportation of microRNA in osteosarcoma.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, several liposomal formulations were synthesized. Physical and chemical parameters, including size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, long-term stability of the liposomal-microRNA complex and the amount of miR-143 loading in liposome based nano-vesicles were optimized using different techniques. Similarly, the effect of free and encapsulated microRNA toxicity were investigated and compared in a human bone osteosarcoma cell line, named SaOs-2.

Results

In this study, we could produce a novel and optimized formulation of cationic PEGylated liposomal microRNA for gene delivery. The present synthesized microRNA lipoplex system was non-agglomerated. The system remained stable after four months and miR-143 leakage was not observed by performing gel electrophoresis. The microRNA lipoplex could enhance conduction of the loaded miR-143, and it also showed good biocompatibility to the healthy cells.

Conclusion

The PEGylated microRNA lipoplex system had a high potential for the systematic migration of miR-143 and it could improve intracellular stability of the released microRNA.

Codelivery of doxorubicin and JIP1 siRNA with novel EphA2-targeted PEGylated cationic nanoliposomes to overcome osteosarcoma multidrug resistance

Purpose

Osteosarcoma (OS) mostly affects children and young adults, and has only a 20%–30% 5-year survival rate when metastasized. We aimed to create dual-targeted (extracellular against EphA2 and intracellular against JNK-interacting protein 1 [JIP1]), doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded liposomes to treat OS metastatic disease.

Materials and methods

Cationic liposomes contained N-[1-(2,3-dioleoyloxy)propyl]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium methyl-sulfate (DOTAP), cholesterol, 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC), and distearoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine–methyl-poly(ethylene glycol) (DSPE–mPEG) conjugate. EphA2 targeting was accomplished by conjugating YSA peptide to DSPE–mPEG. Vesicles were subsequently loaded with DOX and JIP1 siRNA.

Results

Characteristics assessment showed that 1) size of the bilayered particles was 109 nm; 2) DOX loading efficiency was 87%; 3) siRNA could be successfully loaded at a liposome:siRNA ratio of >24:1; and 4) the zeta potential was 18.47 mV. Tumor-mimicking pH conditions exhibited 80% siRNA and 50.7% DOX sustained release from the particles. Stability studies ensured the protection of siRNA against degradation in serum. OS cell lines showed increased and more pericellular/nuclear localizations when using targeted vesicles. Nontargeted and targeted codelivery caused 70.5% and 78.6% cytotoxicity in OS cells, respectively (free DOX: 50%). Targeted codelivery resulted in 42% reduction in the siRNA target, JIP1 mRNA, and 46% decrease in JIP1 levels.

Conclusion

Our dual-targeted, DOX-loaded liposomes enhance toxicity toward OS cells and may be effective for the treatment of metastatic OS.

Preparation of PEGylated cationic nanoliposome-siRNA complexes for cancer therapy

Cationic liposomes have been investigated as non-viral vectors for gene delivery for more than a decade to overcome challenges associated with viral gene delivery. However, due to instability of liposomes, siRNA delivery is still a serious problem. In this study, we developed stealth PEGylated liposome formulations and focused on the effects of PEGylated liposomes on parameters related to size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, siRNA-loading efficiency and long-term stability of the siRNA-liposome complex. We were able to generate siRNA lipoplexes that could be very efficiently loaded, did not aggregate, could be stored at 4 °C for at least 6 months with only marginal release (1-5%) of siRNA and enhanced intracellular delivery of siRNA. Moreover, we could demonstrate that PEGylation positively contributed to all these parameters compared to liposomes, which were not PEGylated. The prepared lipoplex was successfully silenced J1P1 expression in MG-63 osteosarcoma cell line. In conclusion, our novel PEGylated liposomes have high potential for systemic delivery of siRNA and can improve in vivo stability of free siRNA and also siRNA lipoplexes.

A comprehensive mathematical model of drug release kinetics from nano-liposomes, derived from optimization studies of cationic PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin formulations for drug-gene delivery

This study focuses on the development of a universal mathematical model for drug release kinetics from liposomes to allow in silico prediction of optimal conditions for fine-tuned controlled drug release. As a prelude for combined siRNA-drug delivery, nanoliposome formulations were optimized using various mole percentages of a cationic lipid (1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane, DOTAP) in the presence or absence of 3 mol% distearoyl phosphoethanolamine, polyethylene glycol (PEG-2000mDSPE). Outcome parameters were particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release, and tumor cell kill efficiency. The optimized formula (containing 20% DOTAP with 3% DSPE-mPEG(2000) was found to be stable for six months, with round-shaped particles without aggregate formation, an average diameter of 71 nm, a suitable positive charge, and 89% drug encapsulation efficiency (EE). The 41% drug release during 6 h confirmed controlled release. Furthermore, the release profiles as functions of pH and temperature were investigated and the kinetics of the drug release could adequately be fitted to Korsmeyer-Peppas' model by multiple regression analysis. The statistical parameters confirmed good conformity of final models. Functionality of the novel cationic liposome formulations (± DOX) was tested on osteosarcoma (OS) cell lines. Increased OS cell toxicity (1.3-fold) was observed by the DOX-loaded vs. the free DOX. A feasibility pilot showed that siRNA could be loaded efficiently as well. In conclusion, we have established a predictive mathematical model for the fine-tuning of controlled drug release from liposomal formulations, while creating functional drug-delivery liposomes with potential for siRNA co-delivery to increase specificity and efficacy.

Co-delivery of hydrophilic and hydrophobic anticancer drugs using biocompatible pH-sensitive lipid-based nano-carriers for multidrug-resistant cancers

Simultaneous prolonged delivery of therapeutic gene, hydrophilic and hydrophobic anticancer drugs using biocompatible pH-sensitive LipoNiosome has been considered as a novel and promising method in order to treatment multi-drug resistant cancer.