Combining hydrophilic chemotherapy and hydrophobic phytotherapy via tumor-targeted albumin-QDs nano-hybrids: covalent coupling and phospholipid complexation approaches

Protein nanoparticles as drug delivery systems for cancer theranostics

Protein-based nanoparticles have garnered significant attention in theranostic applications due to their superior biocompatibility, exceptional biodegradability and ease of functionality. Compared to other nanocarriers, protein-based nanoparticles offer additional advantages, including biofunctionality and precise molecular recognition abilities, which make them highly effective in navigating complex biological environments. Moreover, proteins can serve as powerful tools with self-assembling structures and reagents that enhance cell penetration. And their derivation from abundant renewable sources and ability to degrade into harmless amino acids further enhance their suitability for biomedical applications. However, protein-based nanoparticles have so far not realized their full potential. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the use of protein nanoparticles in tumor diagnosis and treatment and outline typical methods for preparing protein nanoparticles. The review of protein nanoparticles may provide useful new insights into the development of biomaterial fabrication.

A bibliometric and visualized analysis of nanoparticles in musculoskeletal diseases (from 2013 to 2023)

As the pace of research on nanomedicine for musculoskeletal (MSK) diseases accelerates, there remains a lack of comprehensive analysis regarding the development trajectory, primary authors, and research focal points in this domain. Additionally, there's a need of detailed elucidation of potential research hotspots. The study gathered articles and reviews focusing on the utilization of nanoparticles (NPs) for MSK diseases published between 2013 and 2023, extracted from the Web of Science database. Bibliometric and visualization analyses were conducted using various tools such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace, Pajek, Scimago Graphica, and the R package. China, the USA, and India emerged as the key drivers in this research domain. Among the numerous institutions involved, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Sichuan University exhibited the highest productivity levels. Vallet-Regi Maria emerged as the most prolific author in this field. International Journal of Nanomedicine accounted for the largest number of publications in this area. The top five disorders of utmost significance in this field include osteosarcoma, cartilage diseases, bone fractures, bone neoplasms, and joint diseases. These findings are instrumental in providing researchers with a comprehensive understanding of this domain and offer valuable perspectives for future investigations.

The GSTP1/MAPKs/BIM/SMAC modulatory actions of nitazoxanide: Bioinformatics and experimental evidence in subcutaneous solid Ehrlich carcinoma-inoculated mice

AIMS

Ehrlich ascites carcinoma and its subcutaneous inoculated solid tumour form (SEC) are reliable models for chemotherapeutic molecular targets exploration. Novel chemotherapeutic approaches are identified as molecular targets for intrinsic apoptosis, like the modulation of the second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases (SMAC). SMAC is a physiological substrate of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Glutathione-S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) and its close association with MAPKs play an important role in malignant cell proliferation, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapeutics. Nitazoxanide (NTZ) is an emerging cancer therapy and its targeted GSTP1 evidence remains a knowledge need.

MAIN METHODS

In the present mice-established SEC, the chemotherapeutic roles of oral NTZ (200 mg/kg/day) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU; 20 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneally) regimens were evaluated by measuring changes in tumour mass, the tumour MAPKs, cytochrome c, Bcl-2 interacting mediator of cell death (BIM), and SMAC signalling pathway in addition to its molecular downstream; caspases 3 and 9.

KEY FINDINGS

Computational analysis for these target protein interactions showed direct-ordered interactions. After individual therapy with NTZ and 5-FU regimens, the histological architecture of the extracted tumour discs revealed decreases in viable tumour regions with significant necrosis surrounds. These findings were consistent with gross tumour sizes. Each separate regimen lowered the remarkable GSTP1 and elevated the low MAPKs expressions, cytochrome c, BIM, SMAC, and caspases 3, and 9 in EST tissues.

SIGNIFICANCE

The chemotherapeutic activity of NTZ in SEC was proven. Additionally, NTZ possesses a SMAC modulatory activity that, following thorough research, should be taken into consideration as a chemotherapeutic approach in solid tumours.

Small molecules as cancer targeting ligands: Shifting the paradigm

Conventional chemotherapeutics exploration is hampered due to their nonspecific distribution leading to unintended serious toxicity. Toxicity is so severe that deciding to go for chemotherapy becomes a question of concern for many terminally ill cancer patients. However, with evolving times nanotechnology assisted in reducing the haywire distribution and channelizing the movement of drug-enclosing drug delivery systems to cancer cells to a greater extent, yet toxicity issues still could not be obliterated. Thus, active targeting appeared as a refuge, where ligands actively or specifically deliver linked chemotherapeutics and carriers to cancer cells. For a very long time, large molecule weight/macromolecular ligands (peptides and big polymers) were considered the first choice for ligand-directed active cancer targeting, due to their specificity towards overexpressed native cancer receptors. However, complex characterization, instability, and the expensive nature demanded to reconnoitre better alternatives for macromolecule ligands. The concept of small molecules as ligands emerged from the idea that few chemical molecules including chemotherapeutics have a higher affinity for cancer receptors, which are overexpressed on cell membranes, and may have the ability to assist in drug cellular uptake through endocytosis. But now the question is, can they assist the conjugated macro cargos to enter the cell or not? This present review will provide a holistic overview of the small molecule ligands explored till now.

Engineered Sericin-Tagged Layered Double Hydroxides for Combined Delivery of Pemetrexed and ZnO Quantum Dots as Biocompatible Cancer Nanotheranostics

Despite extensive progress in the field of cancer nanotheranostics, clinical development of biocompatible theranostic nanomedicine remains a formidable challenge. Herein, we engineered biocompatible silk-sericin-tagged inorganic nanohybrids for efficient treatment and imaging of cancer cells. The developed nanocarriers are anticipated to overcome the premature release of the chemotherapeutic drug pemetrexed (PMX), enhance the colloidal stability of layered double hydroxides (LDHs), and maintain the luminescence properties of ZnO quantum dots (QDs). Materials and Methods: PMX-intercalated LDHs were modified with sericin and coupled to ZnO QDs for therapy and imaging of breast cancer cells. Results: The optimized nanomedicine demonstrated a sustained release profile of PMX, and high cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 cells compared to free PMX. In addition, high cellular uptake of the engineered nanocarriers into MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells was accomplished. Conclusions: Conclusively, the LDH-sericin nanohybrids loaded with PMX and conjugated to ZnO QDs offered a promising cancer theranostic nanomedicine.

Development of Chitosan/Gelatin-Based Hydrogels Incorporated with Albumin Particles

The research subject of this paper are natural polymer-based hydrogels modified with albumin particles. The proteins were obtained via the salt-induced precipitation method, and next characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), UV-Vis spectroscopy and FT-IR spectroscopy. The most favorable composition showing monodispersity and particles with a size lower than 40 nm was selected for modification of hydrogels. Such systems were obtained via the photopolymerization performed under the influence of UV radiation using diacrylate poly(ethylene glycol) as a crosslinking agent and 2-hydroxy-2-methylpropiophenone as a photoinitiator. Next, the hydrogels' swelling ability, mechanical properties, wettability and surface morphology were characterized. Moreover, FT-IR spectroscopy, incubation studies in simulated physiological liquids, pro-inflammatory activity analysis and MTT reduction assay with L929 murine fibroblasts were performed. The release profiles of proteins from hydrogels were also verified. Materials modified with proteins showed higher swelling ability, increased flexibility even by 50% and increased surface hydrophilicity. Hydrogels' contact angles were within the range 62-69° while the tensile strength of albumin-containing hydrogels was approx. 0.11 MPa. Furthermore, the possibility of the effective release of protein particles from hydrogels in acidic environment (approximately 70%) was determined. Incubation studies showed hydrogels' stability and lack of their degradation in tested media. The viability of fibroblasts was 89.54% for unmodified hydrogel, and approx. 92.73% for albumin-modified hydrogel, and such an increase indicated the positive impact of the albumin on murine fibroblast proliferation.

Sequential Delivery of Novel Triple Drug Combination via Crosslinked Alginate/Lactoferrin Nanohybrids for Enhanced Breast Cancer Treatment

While breast cancer remains a global health concern, the elaboration of rationally designed drug combinations coupled with advanced biocompatible delivery systems offers new promising treatment venues. Herein, we repurposed rosuvastatin (RST) based on its selective tumor apoptotic effect and combined it with the antimetabolite pemetrexed (PMT) and the tumor-sensitizing polyphenol honokiol (HK). This synergistic three-drug combination was incorporated into protein polysaccharide nanohybrids fabricated by utilizing sodium alginate (ALG) and lactoferrin (LF), inspired by the stealth property of the former and the cancer cell targeting capability of the latter. ALG was conjugated to PMT and then coupled with LF which was conjugated to RST, forming core shell nanohybrids into which HK was physically loaded, followed by cross linking using genipin. The crosslinked HK-loaded PMT-ALG/LF-RST nanohybrids exhibited a fair drug loading of 7.86, 5.24 and 6.11% for RST, PMT and HK, respectively. It demonstrated an eight-fold decrease in the IC50 compared to the free drug combination, in addition to showing an enhanced cellular uptake by MCF-7 cells. The in vivo antitumor efficacy in a breast cancer-bearing mouse model confirmed the superiority of the triple cocktail-loaded nanohybrids. Conclusively, our rationally designed triple drug-loaded protein/polysaccharide nanohybrids offer a promising, biocompatible approach for an effective breast tumor suppression.

Anti-neoplastic action of Cimetidine/Vitamin C on histamine and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in Ehrlich breast cancer

The main focus of our study is to assess the anti-cancer activity of cimetidine and vitamin C via combating the tumor supportive role of mast cell mediators (histamine, VEGF, and TNF-α) within the tumor microenvironment and their effect on the protein kinase A(PKA)/insulin receptor substrate-1(IRS-1)/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/serine/threonine kinase-1 (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) cue in Ehrlich induced breast cancer in mice. In vitro study was carried out to evaluate the anti-proliferative activity and combination index (CI) of the combined drugs. Moreover, the Ehrlich model was induced in mice via subcutaneous injection of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells (EAC) in the mammary fat pad, and then they were left for 9 days to develop obvious solid breast tumor. The combination therapy possessed the best anti-proliferative effect, and a CI < 1 in the MCF7 cell line indicates a synergistic type of drug interaction. Regarding the in vivo study, the combination abated the elevation in the tumor volume, and serum tumor marker carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level. The serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level and immunohistochemical staining for CD34 as markers of angiogenesis were mitigated. Additionally, it reverted the state of oxidative stress and inflammation. Meanwhile, it caused an increment in apoptosis, which prevents tumor survival. Furthermore, it tackled the elevated histamine and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, preventing the activation of the (PKA/IRS-1/PI3K/AKT/mTOR) cue. Finally, we concluded that the synergistic combination provided a promising anti-neoplastic effect via reducing the angiogenesis, oxidative stress, increasing apoptosis,as well as inhibiting the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR cue, and suggesting its use as a treatment option for breast cancer.

Tumor-targeted nano-delivery system of therapeutic RNA

The birth of RNAi technology has pioneered actionability at the molecular level. Compared to DNA, RNA is less stable and therefore requires more demanding delivery vehicles. With their flexible size, shape, structure, and accessible surface modification, non-viral vectors show great promise for application in RNA delivery. Different non-viral vectors have different ways of binding to RNA. Low immunotoxicity gives RNA significant advantages in tumor treatment. However, the delivery of RNA still has many limitations in vivo. This manuscript summarizes the size-targeting dependence of different organs, followed by a summary of nanovesicles currently in or undergoing clinical trials. It also reviews all RNA delivery systems involved in the current study, including natural, bionic, organic, and inorganic systems. It summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of different delivery methods, which will be helpful for future RNA vehicle design. It is hoped that this will be helpful for gene therapy of clinical tumors.

Methotrexate-Lactoferrin Targeted Exemestane Cubosomes for Synergistic Breast Cancer Therapy

While the treatment regimen of certain types of breast cancer involves a combination of hormonal therapy and chemotherapy, the outcomes are limited due to the difference in the pharmacokinetics of both treatment agents that hinders their simultaneous and selective delivery to the cancer cells. Herein, we report a hybrid carrier system for the simultaneous targeted delivery of aromatase inhibitor exemestane (EXE) and methotrexate (MTX). EXE was physically loaded within liquid crystalline nanoparticles (LCNPs), while MTX was chemically conjugated to lactoferrin (Lf) by carbodiimide reaction. The anionic EXE-loaded LCNPs were then coated by the cationic MTX–Lf conjugate via electrostatic interactions. The Lf-targeted dual drug-loaded LCNPs exhibited a particle size of 143.6 ± 3.24 nm with a polydispersity index of 0.180. It showed excellent drug loading with an EXE encapsulation efficiency of 95% and an MTX conjugation efficiency of 33.33%. EXE and MTX showed synergistic effect against the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line with a combination index (CI) of 0.342. Furthermore, the Lf-targeted dual drug-loaded LCNPs demonstrated superior synergistic cytotoxic activity with a combination index (CI) of 0.242 and a dose reduction index (DRI) of 34.14 and 4.7 for EXE and MTX, respectively. Cellular uptake studies demonstrated higher cellular uptake of Lf-targeted LCNPs into MCF-7 cancer cells than non-targeted LCNPs after 4 and 24 h. Collectively, the targeted dual drug-loaded LCNPs are a promising candidate offering combinational hormonal therapy/chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Opportunities in combinational chemo-immunotherapy for breast cancer using nanotechnology: an emerging landscape

INTRODUCTION

Breast carcinoma (BC) is one of the most frequent causes of cancer-related death among women, which is due to the poor response to conventional therapy. There are several complications associated with monotherapy for cancer, such as cytotoxicity to normal cells, multidrug resistance (MDR), side effects, and limited applications. To overcome these challenges, a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy (monoclonal antibodies, anticancer vaccines, checkpoint inhibitors, and cytokines) has been introduced. Drug delivery systems (DDSs) based on nanotechnology have more applications in BC treatment owing to their controlled and targeted drug release with lower toxicity and reduced adverse drug effects. Several nanocarriers, such as liposomes, nanoparticles, dendrimers, and micelles, have been used for the effective delivery of drugs.

AREAS COVERED

This article presents opportunities and challenges in BC treatment, the rationale for cancer immunotherapy, and several combinational approaches with their applications for BC treatment.

EXPERT OPINION

Nanotechnology can be used for the early prognosis and cure of BC. Several novel and targeted DDSs have been developed to enhance the efficacy of anticancer drugs. This article aims to understand new strategies for the treatment of BC and the appropriate design of nanocarriers used as a combinational DDS.

Baicalin; a promising chemopreventive agent, enhances the antitumor effect of 5-FU against breast cancer and inhibits tumor growth and angiogenesis in Ehrlich solid tumor

Despite considerable advances in cancer treatment, chemotherapy remains a cornerstone in breast cancer therapy. Therefore, reducing chemoresistance and adverse effects of chemotherapy is a priority. In this regard, Baicalin (BA) is the dominant natural flavonoid extracted from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis showed fascinating antitumor activity in many types of cancers, including breast cancer. The present study aimed to explore the chemopreventive and antitumor action of baicalin alone and in combination with 5-FU in addition to its ability to enhance the antitumor effect of 5-FU on breast cancer using the Ehrlich solid tumor-mice model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 70 female mice were divided into seven groups (1st group, saline group; 2nd group, DMSO group; 3rd group, BA+EST group; 4th group, EST group; 5th group, EST+5-FU; 6th group, EST+BA group; 7th group, EST+5-FU+BA).tumors were assessed by weight and histopathological examination. Inflammation, angiogenesis, and apoptosis were examined by ELISA, qRT-PCR, and immunohistochemical examinations.

RESULTS

showed that pre-treatment with baicalin and treatment with baicalin and/or 5-FU significantly reduced inflammation and angiogenesis indicated by suppression of NF-kB/ IL-1β and VEGF amplification loop with marked elevation in apoptosis indicated by up-regulation of apoptotic caspase-3, pro-apoptotic p53, Bax and downregulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2.

CONCLUSION

BA is a promising preventive or adjuvant therapy in breast cancer treatment with 5-FU mainly via cooperative inhibition of inflammation, angiogenesis, and triggering apoptotic cell death.

The Combination of Solid-State Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry as the Basis for the Synthesis of Theranostics Platforms

This review presents the main patterns of synthesis for theranostics platforms. We examine various approaches to the interpretation of theranostics, statistics of publications drawn from the PubMed database, and the solid-state and medicinal chemistry methods used for the formation of nanotheranostic objects. We highlight and analyze chemical methods for the modification of nanoparticles, synthesis of spacers with functional end-groups, and the immobilization of medicinal substances and fluorophores. An overview of the modern solutions applied in various fields of medicine is provided, along with an outline of specific examples and an analysis of modern trends and development areas of theranostics as a part of personalized medicine.

Recent advances in herbal combination nanomedicine for cancer: delivery technology and therapeutic outcomes

Introduction: The use of herbal compounds in cancer therapy has great potential to promote the efficacy of current cancer therapeutic strategies. Herbal compounds were successfully reported to enhance tumor cells sensitization to the action of chemo-, hormonal- and gene-therapeutic agents via different mechanisms. Herbal ingredients can affect different signaling pathways, reduce the toxic side effects or inhibit the efflux of anticancer drugs.Areas covered: This review will discuss the delivery of herbal compounds with other cancer treatments such as hormonal, small molecule inhibitors and inorganic hybrids to tumor cells. An overview of physicochemical properties of herbal components that require intelligent design of combo-nanomedicines for efficient co-delivery of those herbal-derived and other anticancer agents was discussed. Nanocarriers provide various benefits to overcome the shortcomings of the encapsulated herbal compounds including improved solubility, increased stability and enhanced tumor targeting. Different nanocarrier systems were the focus of this review.Expert opinion: Multifunctional nanocarrier systems encapsulating herbal and different anticancer drugs showed to be a wonderful approach in the treatment of cancer enabling the co-delivery of anticancer drugs with versatile modes of action in an accurate manner in an attempt to enhance the efficacy, benefit from the synergism between the drugs as well as to minimize the development of multi-drug resistance. The main challenge point is the early detection and management of any developed adverse effect.

Human Serum Albumin as Multifunctional Nanocarrier for Cancer Therapy

Human serum albumin or simply called albumin is a flexible protein employed as a carrier in the fabrication of albumin-based nanocarriers (ANCs) for the administration of cancer therapeutics. Albumin can contribute enhanced tumour specificity, reduced drug induced cytotoxicity and retain concentration of the therapeutically active agent such as drug, peptide, protein, and gene for a prolonged time duration. Nevertheless, apart from cancer management, ANCs are also employed in the diagnosis, imaging, and multimodal cancer therapy. This article figures out salient characteristics, design as well as categories of ANCs in the context of their application in cancer management. In addition, this review article discusses the fabrication methods of ANCs, use of ANCs in gene, cancer, and multimodal therapy along with cancer diagnosis and imaging. Lastly, this review also briefly discusses about (ANCs) formulations, commercial products, and those under clinical testing.

Nanomedicine-Combined Immunotherapy for Cancer

BACKGROUND

Immunotherapy for cancer includes Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T cells, CAR-natural Killer (NK) cells, PD1, and the PD-L1 inhibitor. However, the proportion of patients who respond to cancer immunotherapy is not satisfactory. Concurrently, nanotechnology has experienced a revolution in cancer diagnosis and therapy. There are few clinically approved nanoparticles that can selectively bind and target cancer cells and incorporate molecules, although many therapeutic nanocarriers have been approved for clinical use. There are no systematic reviews outlining how nanomedicine and immunotherapy are used in combination to treat cancer.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to illustrate how nanomedicine and immunotherapy can be used for cancer treatment to overcome the limitations of the low proportion of patients who respond to cancer immunotherapy and the rarity of nanomaterials in clinical use.

METHODS

A literature review of MEDLINE, PubMed / PubMed Central, and Google Scholar was performed. We performed a structured search of literature reviews on nanoparticle drug-delivery systems, which included photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, photoacoustic therapy, and immunotherapy for cancer. Moreover, we detailed the advantages and disadvantages of the various nanoparticles incorporated with molecules to discuss the challenges and solutions associated with cancer treatment.

CONCLUSION

This review identified the advantages and disadvantages associated with improving health care and outcomes. The findings of this review confirmed the importance of nanomedicinecombined immunotherapy for improving the efficacy of cancer treatment. It may become a new way to develop novel cancer therapeutics using nanomaterials to achieve synergistic anticancer immunity.

Nanotheranostics for Cancer Therapy and Detection: State of the Art

Nanotheranostics, an approach of combining both diagnosis and therapy, is one of the latest advances in cancer therapy particularly. Nanocarriers designed and derived from inorganic materials such as like gold nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes have been explored for tremendous applications in this area. Similarly, nanoparticles composed of some organic material alone or in combination with inorganic nano-cargos have been developed pre-clinically and possess excellent features desired. Photothermal therapy, MRI, simultaneous imaging and delivery, and combination chemotherapy with a diagnosis are a few of the known methods exploring cancer therapy and detection at organ/tissue/molecular/sub-cellular level. This review comprises an overview of the recent reports meant for nano theranostics purposes. Targeted cancer nanotheranostics have been included for understating tumor micro-environment or cell-specific targeting approach employed. A brief account of various strategies is also included for the readers highlighting the mechanism of cancer therapy.

Combination of magnetic targeting with synergistic inhibition of NF-κB and glutathione via micellar drug nanomedicine enhances its anti-tumor efficacy

Breast cancer is not only one of the most prevalent types of cancer, but also it is a prime cause of death in women aged between 20 and 59. Although chemotherapy is the most common therapy approach, multiple side effects can result from lack of specificity and the use of overdose as safe doses may not completely cure cancer. Therefore, we aimed in this study is to combine the merits of NF-κB inhibiting potential of celastrol (CST) with glutathione inhibitory effect of sulfasalazine (SFZ) which prevents CST inactivation and thus enhances its anti-tumor activity. Inspired by the CD44-mediated tumor targeting effect of the hydrophilic polysaccharide chondroitin sulphate (ChS), we chemically synthesized amphiphilic zein-ChS micelles. While the water insoluble SFZ was chemically coupled to zein, CST was physically entrapped within the hydrophobic zein/SFZ micellar core. Moreover, physical encapsulation of oleic acid-capped SPIONs in the hydrophobic core of micelles enabled both magnetic tumor targeting as well as MRI theranostic capacity. Combining magnetic targeting to with the active targeting effect of ChS resulted in enhanced cellular internalization of the micelles in MCF-7 cancer cells and hence higher cytotoxic effect against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. In the in vivo experiments, magnetically-targeted micelles (154.4 nm) succeeded in achieving the lowest percentage increase in the tumor volume in tumor bearing mice, the highest percentage of tumor necrosis associated with significant reduction in the levels of TNF-α, Ki-67, NF-κB, VEGF, COX-2 markers compared to non-magnetically targeted micelles-, free drug-treated and positive control groups. Collectively, the developed magnetically targeted micelles pave the way for design of cancer nano-theranostic drug combinations.

Cadmium sulfide-induced toxicity in the cortex and cerebellum: In vitro and in vivo studies

Living organisms have an innate ability to regulate the synthesis of inorganic materials, such as bones and teeth in humans. Cadmium sulfide (CdS) can be utilized as a quantum dot that functions as a unique light-emitting semiconductor nanocrystal. The increased use in CdS has led to an increased inhalation and ingestion rate of CdS by humans which requires a broader appreciation for the acute and chronic toxicity of CdS. We investigated the toxic effects of CdS on cerebellar cell cultures and rat brain. We employed a 'green synthesis' biosynthesis process to obtain biocompatible material that can be used in living organisms, such as Viridibacillus arenosi K64. Nanocrystal formation was initiated by adding CdCl2 (1 mM) to the cell cultures. Our in vitro results established that increased concentrations of CdS (0.1 μg/mL) lead to decreased cell viability as assessed using 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and total oxidant status (TOS). The in vivo studies showed that exposure to CdS (1 mg/kg) glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and 8-hydroxy-2' -deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) were increased. Collectively, we describe a model system that addresses the process from the synthesis to the neurotoxicity assessment for CdS both in vitro and in vivo. These data will be beneficial in establishing a more comprehensive pathway for the understanding of quantum dot-induced neurotoxicity.

Nanoparticle Drug Delivery Systems for α-Mangostin

α-Mangostin, a xanthone derivative from the pericarp of Garcinia mangostana L., has numerous bioactivities and pharmacological properties. However, α-mangostin has low aqueous solubility and poor target selectivity in the human body. Recently, nanoparticle drug delivery systems have become an excellent technique to improve the physicochemical properties and effectiveness of drugs. Therefore, many efforts have been made to overcome the limitations of α-mangostin through nanoparticle formulations. Our review aimed to summarise and discuss the nanoparticle drug delivery systems for α-mangostin from published papers recorded in Scopus, PubMed and Google Scholar. We examined various types of nanoparticles for α-mangostin to enhance water solubility, provide controlled release and create targeted delivery systems. These forms include polymeric nanoparticles, nanomicelles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanofibers and nanoemulsions. Notably, nanomicelle modification increased α-mangostin solubility increased more than 10,000 fold. Additionally, polymeric nanoparticles provided targeted delivery and significantly enhanced the biodistribution of α-mangostin into specific organs. In conclusion, the nanoparticle drug delivery system could be a promising technique to increase the solubility, selectivity and efficacy of α-mangostin as a new drug candidate in clinical therapy.

Glyco-functionalised quantum dots and their progress in cancer diagnosis and treatment

Despite all major breakthroughs in recent years of research, we are still unsuccessful to effectively diagnose and treat cancer that has express and metastasizes. Thus, the development of a novel approach for cancer detection and treatment is crucial. Recent progress in Glyconanotechnology has allowed the use of glycans and lectins as bio-functional molecules for many biological and biomedical applications. With the known advantages of quantum dots (QDs) and versatility of carbohydrates and lectins, Glyco-functionalised QD is a new prospect in constructing biomedical imaging platform for cancer behaviour study as well as treatment. In this review, we aim to describe the current utilisation of Glyco-functionalised QDs as well as their future prospective to interpret and confront cancer.

Advances in phytochemical delivery systems for improved anticancer activity

Natural compounds have significant anticancer pharmacological activities, but often suffer from low bioavailability and selectivity that limit therapeutic use. The present work critically analyzes the latest advances on drug delivery systems designed to enhance pharmacokinetics, targeting, cellular uptake and efficacy of anticancer phytoconstituents. Various phytochemicals, including flavonoids, resveratrol, celastrol, curcumin, berberine and camptothecins, carried by liposomes, nanoparticles, nanoemulsions and films showed promising results. Strategies to avoid drug metabolism, overcome physiological barriers and achieve higher concentration at cancer sites through skin, buccal, nasal, vaginal, pulmonary and colon targeted delivery are presented. Current limitations, challenges and future research directions are also discussed.