Current trends and challenges in cancer management and therapy using designer nanomaterials

Discovery of novel and potent dual-targeting AXL/HDAC2 inhibitors for colorectal cancer treatment via structure-based pharmacophore modelling, virtual screening, and molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation studies, and biological evaluation

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Nowadays, owing to the complex mechanism of tumorigenesis, simultaneous inhibition of multiple targets is an important anticancer strategy. Recent studies have demonstrated receptor tyrosine kinase AXL (AXL) and histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) are closely associated with colorectal cancer. Herein, we identified five hit compounds concurrently targeting AXL and HDAC2 using virtual screening. Inhibitory experiments revealed these hit compounds potently inhibited AXL and HDAC2 in the nanomolar range. Among them, Hit-3 showed the strongest inhibitory effects which were better than that of the positive control groups. Additionally, MD assays showed that Hit-3 could bind stably to the AXL and HDAC2 active pockets. Further MTT assays demonstrated that Hit-3 showed potent anti-proliferative activity. Most importantly, Hit-3 exhibited significant in vivo antitumor efficacy in xenograft models. Collectively, this study is the first discovery of dual-targeting AXL/HDAC2 inhibitors for colorectal cancer treatment.

Studying the effects of secondary metabolites isolated from Cycas thouarsii R.Br. leaves on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells

The various therapeutic drugs that are currently utilized for the management of cancer, especially breast cancer, are greatly challenged by the augmented resistance that is either acquired or de novo by the cancer cells owing to the long treatment periods. So, this study aimed at elucidating the possible anticancer potential of four compounds 7, 4', 7'', 4'''-tetra-O-methyl amentoflavone, hesperidin, ferulic acid, and chlorogenic acid that are isolated from Cycas thouarsii leaves n-butanol fraction for the first time. The MTT assay evaluated the cytotoxic action of four isolated compounds against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and oral epithelial cells. Interestingly, ferulic acid revealed the lowest IC50 of 12.52 µg/mL against MDA-MB-231 cells and a high IC50 of 80.2 µg/mL against oral epithelial cells. Also, using an inverted microscope, the influence of ferulic acid was studied on the MDA-MB-231, which revealed the appearance of apoptosis characteristics like shrinkage of the cells and blebbing of the cell membrane. In addition, the flow cytometric analysis showed that the MDA-MB-231 cells stained with Annexin V/PI had a rise in the count of the cells in the early and late apoptosis stages. Moreover, gel electrophoresis detected DNA fragmentation in the ferulic acid-treated cells. Finally, the effect of the compound was tested at the molecular level by qRT-PCR. An upregulation of the pro-apoptotic genes (BAX and P53) and a downregulation of the anti-apoptotic gene (BCL-2) were observed. Consequently, our study demonstrated that these isolated compounds, especially ferulic acid, may be vital anticancer agents, particularly for breast cancer, through its induction of apoptosis through the P53-dependent pathway.

In-silico optimization of resveratrol interaction with nano-borophene: A DFT-guided study of supramolecular artistry

In this study, the potential of borophene (BOR) as a drug delivery system for resveratrol (RVT) was explored to evaluate its efficacy in cancer treatment. The excited, electronic, and geometric states of RVT, BOR, and the borophene-adsorbed resveratrol complex (BOR@RVT) were calculated to assess BOR's suitability as a drug carrier. Noncovalent interaction (NCI) plots indicated a weak force of attraction between BOR and RVT, which facilitates the offloading of RVT at the target site. Frontier molecular orbital (FMO) analysis showed that during electron excitation from Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital (HOMO) to Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital (LUMO), charge transfer occurs from RVT to BOR. This was further confirmed by charge decomposition analysis (CDA). Calculations for the excited state of BOR@RVT revealed a red shift in the maximum absorption wavelength (λmax), indicating a photoinduced electron transfer (PET) process across various excited states. PET analysis demonstrated fluorescence quenching due to this interaction. Our findings suggest that BOR holds significant potential as a drug delivery vehicle for cancer treatment, offering a promising platform for the development of advanced drug delivery systems.

NO- and H2S- releasing nanomaterials: A crosstalk signaling pathway in cancer

The gasotransmitters nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) play important roles not only in maintaining physiological functions, but also in pathological conditions and events. Importantly, these molecules show a complex interplay in cancer biology, demonstrating both tumor-promoting and anti-tumor activities depending on their concentration, flux, and the environmental redox state. Additionally, various cell types respond differently to NO and H2S. These gasotransmitters can be synergistically combined with traditional anticancer treatments such as radiotherapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and phototherapy. Notably, NO, and more recently H2S, have been shown to reverse multidrug resistance. Nanomaterials to deliver NO donors and, to a lesser extent, H2S donors, have emerged as a promising approach for targeted delivery of these gasotransmitters. Nanotechnology has advanced the delivery of anticancer drugs, enhancing efficiency and reducing side effects on non-cancerous cells. This review highlights recent progress in the design of NO and H2S-releasing nanomaterials for anticancer effects. It also explores the interactions between NO and H2S, which are crucial for developing combined therapies and nanomedicines with minimal side effects.

Liposomal delivery of organoselenium-cisplatin complex as a novel therapeutic approach for colon cancer therapy

Cisplatin is a widely-used chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of various solid neoplasms including colon cancer. Cisplatin-induced DNA damage is restricted due to dose-related adverse reactions as well as primary resistance mechanisms. Therefore, it is imperative to utilize novel therapeutic approaches to circumvent cisplatin limitations and attenuate its normal tissues toxicity. In this study, we exploited a novel PEGylated liposomes with greater efficiency to treat colon cancer. For this, an organoselenium compound (diselanediylbis decanoic acid (DDA)) was synthesized, and liposomes composed of Egg PC or HSPC, as well as DOPE, mPEG2000-DSPE, cholesterol and DDA at varying molar ratios were prepared by using thin-film method. Cisplatin loading was performed through incubation with liposomes. Characterization of nanoliposomes indicated a favarable size range of 91-122 nm and negative zeta potential of -9 to -22 mv. The organoselenium compound significantly improved cisplatin loading efficiency within the liposomes (83.4 %). Results also revealed an efficient bioactivity of cisplatin liposome on C26 cells compared to the normal cells. Further, DDA bearing liposomes significantly improved drug residence time in circulation, reduced toxicity associated with the normal tissues, and enhanced drug accumulation within the oxidative tumor microenvironment. Collectively, results indicated that cisplatin encasement within liposomes by using this method could significantly improve the therapeutic efficacy in vivo, and merits further investigations.

Targeting tumor-associated macrophages with nanocarrier-based treatment for breast cancer: A step toward developing innovative anti-cancer therapeutics

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) promote tumor advancement in many ways, such as inducing angiogenesis and the formation of new blood vessels that provide tumors with nourishment and oxygen. TAMs also facilitate tumor invasion and metastasis by secreting enzymes that degrade the extracellular matrix and generating pro-inflammatory cytokines that enhance the migration of tumor cells. TAMs also have a role in inhibiting the immune response against malignancies. To accomplish this, they release immunosuppressive cytokines such as IL-10, and TAMs can hinder the function of T cells and natural killer cells, which play crucial roles in the immune system's ability to combat cancer. The role of TAMs in breast cancer advancement is a complex and dynamic field of research. Therefore, TAMs are a highly favorable focus for innovative breast cancer treatments. This review presents an extensive overview of the correlation between TAMs and breast cancer development as well as its role in the tumor microenvironment (TME) shedding light on their impact on tumor advancement and immune evasion mechanisms. Notably, our study provides an innovative approach to employing nanomedicine approaches for targeted TAM therapy in breast cancer, providing an in-depth overview of recent advances in this emerging field.

Advancements in breast cancer therapy: The promise of copper nanoparticles

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide and poses significant treatment challenges. Traditional therapies often lead to adverse side effects and resistance, necessitating innovative approaches for effective management.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to explore the potential of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) in enhancing breast cancer therapy through targeted drug delivery, improved imaging, and their antiangiogenic properties.

METHODS

The review synthesizes existing literature on the efficacy of CuNPs in breast cancer treatment, addressing common challenges in nanotechnology, such as nanoparticle toxicity, scalability, and regulatory hurdles. It proposes a novel hybrid method that combines CuNPs with existing therapeutic modalities to optimize treatment outcomes.

RESULTS

CuNPs demonstrate the ability to selectively target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues, leading to improved therapeutic efficacy. Their unique physicochemical properties facilitate efficient biodistribution and enhanced imaging capabilities. Additionally, CuNPs exhibit antiangiogenic activity, which can inhibit tumor growth by preventing the formation of new blood vessels.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that CuNPs represent a promising avenue for advancing breast cancer treatment. By addressing the limitations of current therapies and proposing innovative solutions, this review contributes valuable insights into the future of nanotechnology in oncology.

Exploring the promising role of chitosan delivery systems in breast cancer treatment: A comprehensive review

Breast cancer presents a significant global health challenge, driving the development of novel treatment strategies for therapeutic interventions. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising avenue for addressing this challenge, with Chitosan (CS) nanoparticles receiving prominence due to their unique characteristics and multitude of potential applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the role of Chitosan nanoparticles in breast cancer therapy. The review begins by emphasizing the prevalence and importance of breast cancer as a major health issue, underscoring the necessity for effective treatments. It then delves into the application of Chitosan nanoparticles in breast cancer therapy. One key aspect discussed is their role as carriers for anticancer drugs, enabling targeted delivery and improved cellular uptake. Furthermore, the review explores modified Chitosan nanoparticles and strategies for enhancing their efficacy and specificity in breast cancer treatment. It also examines Chitosan conjugates and hybrids, which offer innovative approaches for combination therapy. Additionally, metal and magnetic Chitosan nanoparticles are discussed spanning their capacity to assist in imaging, hyperthermia, as well as targeted drug delivery. In conclusion, the review summarizes the current research landscape regarding Chitosan nanoparticles for breast cancer therapy and offers insights into future directions. Overall, the review highlights the versatility, potential benefits, and future prospects of Chitosan nanoparticles in combating breast cancer.

Targeted doxorubicin-loaded core-shell copper peroxide-mesoporous silica nanoparticles for combination of ferroptosis and chemotherapy of metastatic breast cancer

In the current study, a tumor microenvironment responsive (TME-responsive) copper peroxide-mesoporous silica core-shell structure with H2O2 self-supplying ability was fabricated for targeted ferroptosis/chemotherapy against metastatic breast cancer. At the first stage, copper peroxide nanodot was synthesized and subsequently coated with mesoporous organosilica shell. After (3-Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTMS) functionalization of the organosilica shell, doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded in the mesoporous structure of the nanoparticles and then, heterofunctional COOH-PEG-Maleimide was decorated on the surface through EDC/NHS chemistry. Afterward, thiol-functionalized AS1411 aptamer was conjugated to the maleimide groups of the PEGylated nanoparticles. In vitro study illustrated ROS generation of the system in the treated 4 T1 cell. Cellular uptake and cytotoxicity experiments showed enhanced internalization and cytotoxicity of the targeted system comparing to non-targeted one. The in vivo study on ectopic 4 T1 tumor induced in Female BALB/c mice showed ideal therapeutic effect of Apt-PEG-Silica-DOT@DOX with approximately 90 % tumor suppression in comparison with 50 % and 25 % tumor suppression for PEG-Silica-DOT@DOX and PEG-Silica-DOT. Moreover, Apt-PEG-Silica-DOT@DOX provide favorable characteristics for biosafety issues concerning the rate of survival and loss of body weight. The prepared platform could serve as a multifunctional system with smart behavior in drug release, tumor accumulation and capable for ferroptosis/chemotherapy against breast cancer.

Lysosome-Targeted Bifunctional Therapeutics Induce Autodynamic Cancer Therapy

Autodynamic cancer therapy possesses tremendous potential for enhancing therapeutic efficacy by initiating the treatment process autonomously within targeted cells. However, challenges related to biocompatibility and targeted delivery have hindered its clinical translation owing to the induction of adverse effects and cytotoxicity in healthy cells. In this study, a novel approach for auto-initiated dynamic therapy by conjugating zwitterionic near-infrared fluorophores to a cell-penetrating peptide is proposed. This enables efficient cellular uptake and specific targeting of therapy to desired cells while avoiding off-target uptake. The zwitterionic bioconjugate causes cancer-specific toxicity following its internalization into the targeted cells, triggered by specific intracellular conditions in lysosomes. This innovative approach enables selective targeting of lysosomes in malignant cells while minimizing cytotoxic effects on normal cells. By targeting lysosomes, the method overcomes inherent risks and side effects associated with conventional cancer treatments, offering a selective and effective approach to cancer therapy.

Unlocking nature's arsenal: Nanotechnology for targeted delivery of venom toxins in cancer therapy

AIM

The aim of the present review is to shed light on the nanotechnological approaches adopted to overcome the shortcomings associated with the delivery of venom peptides which possess inherent anti-cancer properties.

BACKGROUND

Venom peptides although have been reported to demonstrate anti-cancer effects, they suffer from several disadvantages such as in vivo instability, off-target adverse effects, limited drug loading and low bioavailability. This review presents a comprehensive compilation of different classes of nanocarriers while underscoring their advantages, disadvantages and potential to carry such peptide molecules for in vivo delivery. It also discusses various nanotechnological aspects such as methods of fabrication, analytical tools to assess these nanoparticulate formulations, modulation of nanocarrier polymer properties to enhance loading capacity, stability and improve their suitability to carry toxic peptide drugs.

CONCLUSION

Nanotechnological approaches bear great potential in delivering venom peptide-based molecules as anticancer agents by enhancing their bioavailability, stability, efficacy as well as offering a spatiotemporal delivery approach. However, the challenges associated with toxicity and biocompatibility of nanocarriers must be duly addressed.

PERSPECTIVES

The everlasting quest for new breakthroughs for safer delivery of venom peptides in human subjects is fuelled by unmet clinical needs in the current landscape of chemotherapy. In addition, exhaustive efforts are required in obtaining and purifying the venom peptides followed by designing and optimizing scale up technologies.

Biogenic nanoparticles: pioneering a new era in breast cancer therapeutics-a comprehensive review

Breast cancer, a widespread malignancy affecting women globally, often arises from mutations in estrogen/progesterone receptors. Conventional treatments like surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy face limitations such as low efficacy and adverse effects. However, nanotechnology offers promise with its unique attributes like targeted delivery and controlled drug release. Yet, challenges like poor size distribution and environmental concerns exist. Biogenic nanotechnology, using natural materials or living cells, is gaining traction for its safety and efficacy in cancer treatment. Biogenic nanoparticles synthesized from plant extracts offer a sustainable and eco-friendly approach, demonstrating significant toxicity against breast cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. They surpass traditional drugs, providing benefits like biocompatibility and targeted delivery. Thus, this current review summarizes the available knowledge on breast cancer (its types, stages, histopathology, symptoms, etiology and epidemiology) with the importance of using biogenic nanomaterials as a new and improved therapy. The novelty of this work lies in its comprehensive examination of the challenges and strategies for advancing the industrial utilization of biogenic metal and metal oxide NPs. Additionally; it underscores the potential of plant-mediated synthesis of biogenic NPs as effective therapies for breast cancer, detailing their mechanisms of action, advantages, and areas for further research.

Functionalizing tetrahedral framework nucleic acids-based nanostructures for tumor in situ imaging and treatment

Timely in situ imaging and effective treatment are efficient strategies in improving the therapeutic effect and survival rate of tumor patients. In recent years, there has been rapid progress in the development of DNA nanomaterials for tumor in situ imaging and treatment, due to their unsurpassed structural stability, excellent material editability, excellent biocompatibility and individual endocytic pathway. Tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs), are a typical example of DNA nanostructures demonstrating superior stability, biocompatibility, cell-entry performance, and flexible drug-loading ability. tFNAs have been shown to be effective in achieving timely tumor in situ imaging and precise treatment. Therefore, the progress in the fabrication, characterization, modification and cellular internalization pathway of tFNAs-based functional systems and their potential in tumor in situ imaging and treatment applications were systematically reviewed in this article. In addition, challenges and future prospects of tFNAs in tumor in situ imaging and treatment as well as potential clinical applications were discussed.

Aptamer-functionalized liposomes for drug delivery

Among the various targeting ligands for drug delivery, aptamers have attracted much interest in recent years because of their smaller size compared to antibodies, ease of modification, and better batch-to-batch consistency. In addition, aptamers can be selected to target both known and even unknown cell surface biomarkers. For drug loading, liposomes are the most successful vehicle and many FDA-approved formulations are based on liposomes. In this paper, aptamer-functionalized liposomes for targeted drug delivery are reviewed. We begin with the description of related aptamers selection, followed by methods to conjugate aptamers to liposomes and the fate of such conjugates in vivo. Then a few examples of applications are reviewed. In addition to intravenous injection for systemic delivery and hoping to achieve accumulation at target sites, for certain applications, it is also possible to have aptamer/liposome conjugates applied directly at the target tissue such as intratumor injection and dropping on the surface of the eye by adhering to the cornea. While previous reviews have focused on cancer therapy, the current review mainly covers other applications in the last four years. Finally, this article discusses potential issues of aptamer targeting and some future research opportunities.

Recent Advances on Pt-Based Compounds for Theranostic Applications

Since the discovery of cisplatin's antitumoral activity and its approval as an anticancer drug, significant efforts have been made to enhance its physiological stability and anticancer efficacy and to reduce its side effects. With the rapid development of targeted and personalized therapies, and the promising theranostic approach, platinum drugs have found new opportunities in more sophisticated systems. Theranostic agents combine diagnostic and therapeutic moieties in one scaffold, enabling simultaneous disease monitoring, therapy delivery, response tracking, and treatment efficacy evaluation. In these systems, the platinum core serves as the therapeutic agent, while the functionalized ligand provides diagnostic tools using various imaging techniques. This review aims to highlight the significant role of platinum-based complexes in theranostic applications, and, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first focused contribution on this type of platinum compounds. This review presents a brief introduction to the development of platinum chemotherapeutic drugs, their limitations, and resistance mechanisms. It then describes recent advancements in integrating platinum complexes with diagnostic agents for both tumor treatment and monitoring. The main body is organized into three categories based on imaging techniques: fluorescence, positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Finally, this review outlines promising strategies and future perspectives in this evolving field.

Nanotechnology in food packaging materials: role and application of nanoparticles

Global concerns about food security, driven by rising demand, have prompted the exploration of nanotechnology as a solution to enhance food supply. This shift comes in response to the limitations of conventional technologies in meeting the ever-increasing demand for food products. Consequently, nanoparticles play a crucial role in enhancing food production, preservation, and extending shelf life by imparting exceptional properties to materials. Nanoparticles and nanostructures with attributes like expansive surface area and antimicrobial efficacy, are versatile in both traditional packaging and integration into biopolymer matrices. These distinctive qualities contribute to their extensive use in various food sector applications. Hence, this review explores the physicochemical properties, functions, and biological aspects of nanoparticles in the context of food packaging. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of nanoparticles with different biopolymers, alongside its different potential applications such as food shelf-life extenders, antimicrobial agents and as nanomaterials for developing smart packaging systems were summarily explored. While the ongoing exploration of this research area is evident, our review highlights the substantial potential of nanomaterials to emerge as a viable choice for food packaging if the challenges regarding toxicity are carefully and effectively modulated.

Glycosylated nanoplatforms: From glycosylation strategies to implications and opportunities for cancer theranostics

Glycosylated nanoplatforms have emerged as promising tools in the field of cancer theranostics, integrating both therapeutic and diagnostic functionalities. These nanoscale platforms are composed of different materials such as lipids, polymers, carbons, and metals that can be modified with glycosyl moieties to enhance their targeting capabilities towards cancer cells. This review provides an overview of different modification strategies employed to introduce glycosylation onto nanoplatforms, including chemical conjugation, enzymatic methods, and bio-orthogonal reactions. Furthermore, the potential applications of glycosylated nanoplatforms in cancer theranostics are discussed, focusing on their roles in drug delivery, imaging, and combination therapy. The ability of these nanoplatforms to selectively target cancer cells through specific interactions with overexpressed glycan receptors is highlighted, emphasizing their potential for enhancing efficacy and reducing the side effects compared to conventional therapies. In addition, the incorporation of diagnostic components onto the glycosylated nanoplatforms provided the capability of simultaneous imaging and therapy and facilitated the real-time monitoring of treatment response. Finally, challenges and future perspectives in the development and translation of glycosylated nanoplatforms for clinical applications are addressed, including scalability, biocompatibility, and regulatory considerations. Overall, this review underscores the significant progress made in the field of glycosylated nanoplatforms and their potential to revolutionize cancer theranostics.

Apoptotic efficiency of Dicoma anomala biosynthesized silver nanoparticles against A549 lung cancer cells

Lung cancer is one of the common forms of cancer that affects both men and women and is regarded as the leading cause of cancer related deaths. It is characterized by unregulated cell division of altered cells within the lung tissues. Green nanotechnology is a promising therapeutic option that is adopted in cancer research. Dicoma anomala (D. anomala) is one of the commonly used African medicinal plant in the treatment of different medical conditions including cancer. In the present study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using D. anomala MeOH root extract. We evaluated the anticancer efficacy of the synthesized AgNPs as an individual treatment as well as in combination with pheophorbide a (PPBa) mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) in vitro. UV-VIS spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was used to confirm the formation of D.A AgNPs. Post 24 h treatment, A549 cells were evaluated for ATP proliferation, morphological changes supported by LIVE/DEAD assay, and caspase activities. All experiments were repeated four times (n=4), with findings being analysed using SPSS statistical software version 27 set at 0.95 confidence interval. The results from the present study revealed a dose-dependent decrease in cell proliferation in both individual and combination therapy of PPBa mediated PDT and D.A AgNPs on A549 lung cancer cells with significant morphological changes. Additionally, LIVE/DEAD assay displayed a significant increase in the number of dead cell population in individual treatments (i.e., IC50's treated A549 cells) as well as in combination therapy. In conclusion, the findings from this study demonstrated the anticancer efficacy of green synthesized AgNPs as a mono-therapeutic drug as well as in combination with a chlorophyll derivative PPBa in PDT. Taken together, the findings highlight the therapeutic potential of green nanotechnology in medicine.

Advances in inorganic nanoparticles-based drug delivery in targeted breast cancer theranostics

Theranostic nanoparticles (NPs) have the potential to dramatically improve cancer management by providing personalized medicine. Inorganic NPs have attracted widespread interest from academic and industrial communities because of their unique physicochemical properties (including magnetic, thermal, and catalytic performance) and excellent functions with functional surface modifications or component dopants (e.g., imaging and controlled release of drugs). To date, only a restricted number of inorganic NPs are deciphered into clinical practice. This review highlights the recent advances of inorganic NPs in breast cancer therapy. We believe that this review can provides various approaches for investigating and developing inorganic NPs as promising compounds in the future prospects of applications in breast cancer treatment and material science.

Nanoengineering Solutions for Cancer Therapy: Bridging the Gap between Clinical Practice and Translational Research

Nanoengineering has emerged as a progressive method in cancer treatment, offering precise and targeted delivery of therapeutic agents while concurrently reducing overall toxicity. This scholarly article delves into the innovative strategies and advancements in nanoengineering that bridge the gap between clinical practice and research in the field of cancer treatment. Various nanoengineered platforms such as nanoparticles, liposomes, and dendrimers are scrutinized for their capacity to encapsulate drugs, augment drug efficacy, and enhance pharmacokinetics. Moreover, the article investigates research breakthroughs that drive the progression and enhancement of nanoengineered remedies, encompassing the identification of biomarkers, establishment of preclinical models, and advancement of biomaterials, all of which are imperative for translating laboratory findings into practical medical interventions. Furthermore, the integration of nanotechnology with imaging modalities, which amplify cancer detection, treatment monitoring, and response assessment, is thoroughly examined. Finally, the obstacles and prospective directions in nanoengineering, including regulatory challenges and issues related to scalability, are examined. This underscores the significance of fostering collaboration among various entities in order to efficiently translate nanoengineered interventions into enhanced cancer therapies and patient management.

Tumor-Homing Peptides as Crucial Component of Magnetic-Based Delivery Systems: Recent Developments and Pharmacoeconomical Perspective

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is considered to be one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and new therapeutic approaches, especially improved novel cancer treatment regimens, are in high demand. Considering that many chemotherapeutic drugs tend to have poor pharmacokinetic profiles, including rapid clearance and limited on-site accumulation, a combined approach with tumor-homing peptide (THP)-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles could lead to remarkable improvements. This is confirmed by an increasing number of papers in this field, showing that the on-target peptide functionalization of magnetic nanoparticles improves their penetration properties and ensures tumor-specific binding, which results in an increased clinical response. This review aims to highlight the potential applications of THPs in combination with magnetic carriers across various fields, including a pharmacoeconomic perspective.

Engineered biological nanoparticles as nanotherapeutics for tumor immunomodulation

Biological nanoparticles, or bionanoparticles, are small molecules manufactured in living systems with complex production and assembly machinery. The products of the assembly systems can be further engineered to generate functionalities for specific purposes. These bionanoparticles have demonstrated advantages such as immune system evasion, minimal toxicity, biocompatibility, and biological clearance. Hence, bionanoparticles are considered the new paradigm in nanoscience research for fabricating safe and effective nanoformulations for therapeutic purposes. Harnessing the power of the immune system to recognize and eradicate malignancies is a viable strategy to achieve better therapeutic outcomes with long-term protection from disease recurrence. However, cancerous tissues have evolved to become invisible to immune recognition and to transform the tumor microenvironment into an immunosuppressive dwelling, thwarting the immune defense systems and creating a hospitable atmosphere for cancer growth and progression. Thus, it is pertinent that efforts in fabricating nanoformulations for immunomodulation are mindful of the tumor-induced immune aberrations that could render cancer nanotherapy inoperable. This review systematically categorizes the immunosuppression mechanisms, the regulatory immunosuppressive cellular players, and critical suppressive molecules currently targeted as breakthrough therapies in the clinic. Finally, this review will summarize the engineering strategies for affording immune moderating functions to bionanoparticles that tip the tumor microenvironment (TME) balance toward cancer elimination, a field still in the nascent stage.

Unveiling the Bioprospecting Efficacy and Textile Dyeing of a Novel Endophytic Mycobial Red Pigment

Natural pigments are becoming increasingly popular owing of their reliability. Microbial pigments provide an alternative to natural colours. A total of 24 fungal cultures were collected from leaf bits of Senna auriculata, with one strain (FNG1) producing an extracellular red orange pigment. Nigrospora oryzae was confirmed by using physical criteria and molecular phylogenetic study by using ITS and β- tubulin analysis. In EtOAc, the crude red pigment was the most soluble. The TLC analysis was used to partly purify the natural pigment. The partially purified fungal pigment was used in successive bioprospecting studies. The antimicrobial activity of the partially purified sample was assessed against eight human pathogens, with Leucobacter AA7 showing the largest zone of inhibition (200-500 µg/mL). The compound's DPPH scavenging activity enhanced from 38.2 to 67.9%, with an IC50 value of 34.195 ± 2.33 µg/mL. Cancer cells were suppressed by partly pure fungal pigment, but non-cancerous HEK 293 cells were unaffected. The GC-MS analysis was used to characterize the molecule present in the partly purified pigment. In addition, the cotton textiles have the greatest staining capability for crude mycobial pigment, which dyes quickly and has a negative cytotoxicity.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12088-024-01211-y.

Rational Design of NIR-II Emitting Conjugated Polymer Derived Nanoparticles for Image-Guided Cancer Interventions

Due to the reduced absorption, light scattering, and tissue autofluorescence in the NIR-II (1000-1700 nm) region, significant efforts are underway to explore diverse material platforms for in vivo fluorescence imaging, particularly for cancer diagnostics and image-guided interventions. Of the reported imaging agents, nanoparticles derived from conjugated polymers (CPNs) offer unique advantages to alternative materials including biocompatibility, remarkable absorption cross-sections, exceptional photostability, and tunable emission behavior independent of cell labeling functionalities. Herein, the current state of NIR-II emitting CPNs are summarized and structure-function-property relationships are highlighted that can be used to elevate the performance of next-generation CPNs. Methods for particle processing and incorporating cancer targeting modalities are discussed, as well as detailed characterization methods to improve interlaboratory comparisons of novel materials. Contemporary methods to specifically apply CPNs for cancer diagnostics and therapies are then highlighted. This review not only summarizes the current state of the field, but offers future directions and provides clarity to the advantages of CPNs over other classes of imaging agents.

Hyaluronic Acid-Bilirubin Nanoparticles as a Tumor Microenvironment Reactive Oxygen Species-Responsive Nanomedicine for Targeted Cancer Therapy

Introduction

The tumor microenvironment (TME) has attracted considerable attention as a potential therapeutic target for cancer. High levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the TME may act as a stimulus for drug release. In this study, we have developed ROS-responsive hyaluronic acid-bilirubin nanoparticles (HABN) loaded with doxorubicin (DOX@HABN) for the specific delivery and release of DOX in tumor tissue. The hyaluronic acid shell of the nanoparticles acts as an active targeting ligand that can specifically bind to CD44-overexpressing tumors. The bilirubin core has intrinsic anti-cancer activity and ROS-responsive solubility change properties.

Methods & Results

DOX@HABN showed the HA shell-mediated targeting ability, ROS-responsive disruption leading to ROS-mediated drug release, and synergistic anti-cancer activity against ROS-overproducing CD44-overexpressing HeLa cells. Additionally, intravenously administered HABN-Cy5.5 showed remarkable tumor-targeting ability in HeLa tumor-bearing mice with limited distribution in major organs. Finally, intravenous injection of DOX@HABN into HeLa tumor-bearing mice showed synergistic anti-tumor efficacy without noticeable side effects.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that DOX@HABN has significant potential as a cancer-targeting and TME ROS-responsive nanomedicine for targeted cancer treatment.

Autologous patient-derived exhausted nano T-cells exploit tumor immune evasion to engage an effective cancer therapy

BACKGROUND

Active targeting by surface-modified nanoplatforms enables a more precise and elevated accumulation of nanoparticles within the tumor, thereby enhancing drug delivery and efficacy for a successful cancer treatment. However, surface functionalization involves complex procedures that increase costs and timelines, presenting challenges for clinical implementation. Biomimetic nanoparticles (BNPs) have emerged as unique drug delivery platforms that overcome the limitations of actively targeted nanoparticles. Nevertheless, BNPs coated with unmodified cells show reduced functionalities such as specific tumor targeting, decreasing the therapeutic efficacy. Those challenges can be overcome by engineering non-patient-derived cells for BNP coating, but these are complex and cost-effective approaches that hinder their wider clinical application. Here we present an immune-driven strategy to improve nanotherapeutic delivery to tumors. Our unique perspective harnesses T-cell exhaustion and tumor immune evasion to develop a groundbreaking new class of BNPs crafted from exhausted T-cells (NExT) of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients by specific culture methods without sophisticated engineering.

METHODS

NExT were generated by coating PLGA (poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)) nanoparticles with TNBC-derived T-cells exhausted in vitro by acute activation. Physicochemical characterization of NExT was made by dynamic light scattering, electrophoretic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy, and preservation and orientation of immune checkpoint receptors by flow cytometry. The efficacy of chemotherapy-loaded NExT was assessed in TNBC cell lines in vitro. In vivo toxicity was made in CD1 mice. Biodistribution and therapeutic activity of NExT were determined in cell-line- and autologous patient-derived xenografts in immunodeficient mice.

RESULTS

We report a cost-effective approach with a good performance that provides NExT naturally endowed with immune checkpoint receptors (PD1, LAG3, TIM3), augmenting specific tumor targeting by engaging cognate ligands, enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapy, and disrupting the PD1/PDL1 axis in an immunotherapy-like way. Autologous patient-derived NExT revealed exceptional intratumor accumulation, heightened chemotherapeutic index and efficiency, and targeted the tumor stroma in a PDL1+ patient-derived xenograft model of triple-negative breast cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

These advantages underline the potential of autologous patient-derived NExT to revolutionize tailored adoptive cancer nanotherapy and chemoimmunotherapy, which endorses their widespread clinical application of autologous patient-derived NExT.

Chasing Graphene-Based Anticancer Drugs: Where are We Now on the Biomedical Graphene Roadmap?

Graphene and graphene-based materials have attracted growing interest for potential applications in medicine because of their good biocompatibility, cargo capability and possible surface functionalizations. In parallel, prototypic graphene-based devices have been developed to diagnose, imaging and track tumor growth in cancer patients. There is a growing number of reports on the use of graphene and its functionalized derivatives in the design of innovative drugs delivery systems, photothermal and photodynamic cancer therapy, and as a platform to combine multiple therapies. The aim of this review is to introduce the latest scientific achievements in the field of innovative composite graphene materials as potentially applied in cancer therapy. The "Technology and Innovation Roadmap" published in the Graphene Flagship indicates, that the first anti-cancer drugs using graphene and graphene-derived materials will have appeared on the market by 2030. However, it is necessary to broaden understanding of graphene-based material interactions with cellular metabolism and signaling at the functional level, as well as toxicity. The main aspects of further research should elucidate how treatment methods (e.g., photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, combination therapy) and the physicochemical properties of graphene materials influence their ability to modulate autophagy and kill cancer cells. Interestingly, recent scientific reports also prove that graphene nanocomposites modulate cancer cell death by inducing precise autophagy dysfunctions caused by lysosome damage. It turns out as well that developing photothermal oncological treatments, it should be taken into account that near-infrared-II radiation (1000-1500 nm) is a better option than NIR-I (750-1000 nm) because it can penetrate deeper into tissues due to less scattering at longer wavelengths radiation.

Synergistic Effect of Ferroptosis-Inducing Nanoparticles and X-Ray Irradiation Combination Therapy

Ferroptosis, characterized by the induction of cell death via lipid peroxidation, has been actively studied over the last few years and has shown the potential to improve the efficacy of cancer nanomedicine in an iron-dependent manner. Radiation therapy, a common treatment method, has limitations as a stand-alone treatment due to radiation resistance and safety as it affects even normal tissues. Although ferroptosis-inducing drugs help alleviate radiation resistance, there are no safe ferroptosis-inducing drugs that can be considered for clinical application and are still in the research stage. Here, the effectiveness of combined treatment with radiotherapy with Fe and hyaluronic acid-based nanoparticles (FHA-NPs) to directly induce ferroptosis, considering the clinical applications is reported. Through the induction of ferroptosis by FHA-NPs and apoptosis by X-ray irradiation, the therapeutic efficiency of cancer is greatly improved both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, Monte Carlo simulations are performed to assess the physical interactions of the X-rays with the iron-oxide nanoparticle. The study provides a deeper understanding of the synergistic effect of ferroptosis and X-ray irradiation combination therapy. Furthermore, the study can serve as a valuable reference for elucidating the role and mechanisms of ferroptosis in radiation therapy.

One Stone Several Birds: Self-Localizing Submicrocages With Dual Loading Points for Multifunctional Drug Delivery

As the core index, how to improve bioavailability of loaded cargoes is a hot topic of drug carriers. In this study, aminated β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) as a cross-linking points is first integrated into 3D poly(acrylamide-co-acrylonitrile) (P(AAm-co-AN)) network to build up a unique submicrocage (466.2 ± 47.6 nm), featuring upper critical solution temperature (UCST; ≈40 °C), high volume expansion coefficient, and excellent biocompatibility. Hereinto, hydrophobic β-elemene (ELE) is locally loaded in β-CD with high loading efficiency (8.72%) and encapsulation efficiency (78.60%) through hydrophobic desolvation and host-guest interaction. Above UCST, the release of the loaded ELE is accelerated to 72.87% in 24 h, together with the enhanced sensitization effect of synergized radiotherapy. Given spontaneous long-lasting delivery, targeted embolization, and post-treatment removal of such UCST-type submicrocage, it is anticipated to provide a novel, facile, efficient, and versatile strategy of comprehensive anticancer treatments for high drug bioavailability.

Microneedle-mediated nanomedicine to enhance therapeutic and diagnostic efficacy

Nanomedicine has been extensively explored for therapeutic and diagnostic applications in recent years, owing to its numerous advantages such as controlled release, targeted delivery, and efficient protection of encapsulated agents. Integration of microneedle technologies with nanomedicine has the potential to address current limitations in nanomedicine for drug delivery including relatively low therapeutic efficacy and poor patient compliance and enable theragnostic uses. In this Review, we first summarize representative types of nanomedicine and describe their broad applications. We then outline the current challenges faced by nanomedicine, with a focus on issues related to physical barriers, biological barriers, and patient compliance. Next, we provide an overview of microneedle systems, including their definition, manufacturing strategies, drug release mechanisms, and current advantages and challenges. We also discuss the use of microneedle-mediated nanomedicine systems for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Finally, we provide a perspective on the current status and future prospects for microneedle-mediated nanomedicine for biomedical applications.

Potential New Therapies "ROS-Based" in CLL: An Innovative Paradigm in the Induction of Tumor Cell Apoptosis

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, in spite of recent advancements, is still an incurable disease; the majority of patients eventually acquire resistance to treatment through relapses. In all subtypes of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, the disruption of normal B-cell homeostasis is thought to be mostly caused by the absence of apoptosis. Consequently, apoptosis induction is crucial to the management of this illness. Damaged biological components can accumulate as a result of the oxidation of intracellular lipids, proteins, and DNA by reactive oxygen species. It is possible that cancer cells are more susceptible to apoptosis because of their increased production of reactive oxygen species. An excess of reactive oxygen species can lead to oxidative stress, which can harm biological elements like DNA and trigger apoptotic pathways that cause planned cell death. In order to upset the balance of oxidative stress in cells, recent therapeutic treatments in chronic lymphocytic leukemia have focused on either producing reactive oxygen species or inhibiting it. Examples include targets created in the field of nanomedicine, natural extracts and nutraceuticals, tailored therapy using biomarkers, and metabolic targets. Current developments in the complex connection between apoptosis, particularly ferroptosis and its involvement in epigenomics and alterations, have created a new paradigm.

Avocado-derived extracellular vesicles loaded with ginkgetin and berberine prevent inflammation and macrophage foam cell formation

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease of aorta, remains the major cause of morbidity and mortality among cardiovascular disease patients. Macrophage foam cell formation and inflammation are critically involved in early stages of atherosclerosis, hence chemopreventive targeting of foam cell formation by nutraceuticals may be a promising approach to curbing the progression of atherosclerosis. However, many nutraceuticals including berberine and ginkgetin have low stability, tissue/cell penetration and bioavailability resulting in inadequate chemotherapeutic effects of these nutraceuticals. We have used avocado-derived extracellular vesicles (EV) isolated from avocado (EVAvo ) as a novel carrier of nutraceuticals, in a strategy to alleviate the build-up of macrophage foam cells and expression of inflammatory genes. Our key findings are: (i) Avocado is a natural source of plant-derived EVs as shown by the results from transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering and NanoBrook Omni analysis and atomic force microscopy; (ii) EVAvo are taken up by macrophages, a critical cell type in atherosclerosis; (iii) EVAvo can be loaded with high amounts of ginkgetin and berberine; (iv) ginkgetin plus berberine-loaded EVAvo (EVAvo(B+G) ) suppress activation of NFκB and NLRP3, and inhibit expression of pro-inflammatory and atherogenic genes, specifically Cd36, Tnfα, Il1β and Il6; (v) EVAvo(B+G) attenuate oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL)-induced macrophage foam cell formation and (vi) EVAvo(B+G) inhibit oxLDL uptake but not its cell surface binding during foam cell formation. Overall, our results suggest that using EVAvo as a natural carrier of nutraceuticals may improve strategies to curb the progression of atherosclerosis by limiting inflammation and pro-atherogenic responses.

Nanomedicine as a multimodal therapeutic paradigm against cancer: on the way forward in advancing precision therapy

Recent years have witnessed dramatic improvements in nanotechnology-based cancer therapeutics, and it continues to evolve from the use of conventional therapies (chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy) to increasingly multi-complex approaches incorporating thermal energy-based tumor ablation (e.g. magnetic hyperthermia and photothermal therapy), dynamic therapy (e.g. photodynamic therapy), gene therapy, sonodynamic therapy (e.g. ultrasound), immunotherapy, and more recently real-time treatment efficacy monitoring (e.g. theranostic MRI-sensitive nanoparticles). Unlike monotherapy, these multimodal therapies (bimodal, i.e., a combination of two therapies, and trimodal, i.e., a combination of more than two therapies) incorporating nanoplatforms have tremendous potential to improve the tumor tissue penetration and retention of therapeutic agents through selective active/passive targeting effects. These combinatorial therapies can correspondingly alleviate drug response against hypoxic/acidic and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments and promote/induce tumor cell death through various multi-mechanisms such as apoptosis, autophagy, and reactive oxygen-based cytotoxicity, e.g., ferroptosis, etc. These multi-faced approaches such as targeting the tumor vasculature, neoangiogenic vessels, drug-resistant cancer stem cells (CSCs), preventing intra/extravasation to reduce metastatic growth, and modulation of antitumor immune responses work complementary to each other, enhancing treatment efficacy. In this review, we discuss recent advances in different nanotechnology-mediated synergistic/additive combination therapies, emphasizing their underlying mechanisms for improving cancer prognosis and survival outcomes. Additionally, significant challenges such as CSCs, hypoxia, immunosuppression, and distant/local metastasis associated with therapy resistance and tumor recurrences are reviewed. Furthermore, to improve the clinical precision of these multimodal nanoplatforms in cancer treatment, their successful bench-to-clinic translation with controlled and localized drug-release kinetics, maximizing the therapeutic window while addressing safety and regulatory concerns are discussed. As we advance further, exploiting these strategies in clinically more relevant models such as patient-derived xenografts and 3D organoids will pave the way for the application of precision therapy.

Design, synthesis, molecular docking, and in vitro studies of 2-mercaptoquinazolin-4(3H)-ones as potential anti-breast cancer agents

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) comprises 10 % to 20 % of breast cancer, however, it is more dangerous than other types of breast cancer, because it lacks druggable targets, such as the estrogen receptors (ER) and the progesterone receptor (PR), and has under expressed receptor tyrosine kinase, ErbB2. Present targeted therapies are not very effective and other choices include invasive procedures like surgery or less invasive ones like radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This study investigated the potential anticancer activity of some novel quinazolinone derivatives that were designed on the structural framework of two approved anticancer drugs, Ispinesib (KSP inhibitor) and Idelalisib (PI3Kδ inhibitor), to find out solutions for TNBC. All the designed derivatives (3a-l) were subjected to extra precision molecular docking and were synthesized and spectrally characterized. In vitro enzyme inhibition assay of compounds (3a, 3b, 3e, 3 g and 3 h) revealed their nanomolar inhibitory potential against the anticancer targets, KSP and PI3Kδ. Using MTT assay, the cytotoxic potential of compounds 3a, 3b and 3e were found highest against MDA-MB-231 cells with an IC50 of 14.51 µM, 16.27 µM, and 9.97 µM, respectively. Remarkably, these compounds were recorded safe against the oral epithelial normal cells with an IC50 values of 293.60 µM, 261.43 µM, and 222 µM, respectively. The anticancer potential of these compounds against MDA-MB-231 cells was revealed to be associated with their apoptotic activity. This was established by examination with the inverted microscope that revealed the appearance of various apoptotic features like cell shrinkage, apoptotic bodies, and membrane blebbing. Using flow cytometry, the Annexin V/PI-stained cancer cells showed an increase in early and late apoptotic cells. In addition, DNA fragmentation was revealed to occur after treatment with the tested compounds by gel electrophoresis. The relative gene expression of pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic genes revealed an overexpression of the P53 and BAX genes and a downregulation of the BCL-2 gene by real-time PCR. So, this work proved that compounds 3a, 3b, and 3e could be developed as anticancer candidates, via their P53-dependent apoptotic activity.

Stimuli responsiveness of recent biomacromolecular systems (concept to market): A review

Stimuli responsive delivery systems, also known as smart/intelligent drug delivery systems, are specialized delivery vehicles designed to provide spatiotemporal control over drug release at target sites in various diseased conditions, including tumor, inflammation and many others. Recent advances in the design and development of a wide variety of stimuli-responsive (pH, redox, enzyme, temperature) materials have resulted in their widespread use in drug delivery and tissue engineering. The aim of this review is to provide an insight of recent nanoparticulate drug delivery systems including polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, lipid-based nanoparticles and the design of new polymer-drug conjugates (PDCs), with a major emphasis on natural along with synthetic commercial polymers used in their construction. Special focus has been placed on stimuli-responsive polymeric materials, their preparation methods, and the design of novel single and multiple stimuli-responsive materials that can provide controlled drug release in response a specific stimulus. These stimuli-sensitive drug nanoparticulate systems have exhibited varying degrees of substitution with enhanced in vitro/in vivo release. However, in an attempt to further increase drug release, new dual and multi-stimuli based natural polymeric nanocarriers have been investigated which respond to a mixture of two or more signals and are awaiting clinical trials. The translation of biopolymeric directed stimuli-sensitive drug delivery systems in clinic demands a thorough knowledge of its mechanism and drug release pattern in order to produce affordable and patient friendly products.

3D sponge loaded with cisplatin-CS-calcium alginate MPs utilized as a void-filling prosthesis for the efficient postoperative prevention of tumor recurrence and metastasis

Intraoperative bleeding is a pivotal factor in the initiation of early recurrence and tumor metastasis following breast cancer excision. Distinct advantages are conferred upon postoperative breast cancer treatment through the utilization of locally administered implant therapies. This study devised a novel 3D sponge implant containing cisplatin-loaded chitosan-calcium alginate MPs capable of exerting combined chemotherapy and hemostasis effects. This innovative local drug-delivery implant absorbed blood and residual tumor cells post-tumor resection. Furthermore, the cisplatin-loaded chitosan-calcium alginate MPs sustainably targeted and eliminated cancer cells, thereby diminishing the risk of local recurrence and distant metastasis. This hydrogel material can also contribute to breast reconstruction, indicating the potential application of the 3D sponge in drug delivery for breast cancer treatment.

Self-assembly of peptide nanomaterials at biointerfaces: molecular design and biomedical applications

Self-assembly is an important strategy for constructing ordered structures and complex functions in nature. Based on this, people can imitate nature and artificially construct functional materials with novel structures through the supermolecular self-assembly pathway of biological interfaces. Among the many assembly units, peptide molecular self-assembly has received widespread attention in recent years. In this review, we introduce the interactions (hydrophobic interaction, hydrogen bond, and electrostatic interaction) between peptide nanomaterials and biological interfaces, summarizing the latest advancements in multifunctional self-assembling peptide materials. We systematically demonstrate the assembly mechanisms of peptides at biological interfaces, such as proteins and cell membranes, while highlighting their application potential and challenges in fields like drug delivery, antibacterial strategies, and cancer therapy.

Synthesis and Characterization of Paclitaxel-Loaded Silver Nanoparticles: Evaluation of Cytotoxic Effects and Antimicrobial Activity

Carrier system therapies based on combining cancer drugs with nanoparticles have been reported to control tumor growth and significantly reduce the side effects of cancer drugs. We thought that paclitaxel-loaded silver nanoparticles (AgNPs-PTX) were the right carrier to target cancer cells. We also carried out antimicrobial activity experiments as systems formed with nanoparticles have been shown to have antimicrobial activity. In our study, we used easy-to-synthesize and low-cost silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with biocatalytic and photocatalytic advantages as drug carriers. We investigated the antiproliferative activities of silver nanoparticles synthesized by adding paclitaxel on MCF-7 (breast adenocarcinoma cell line), A549 (lung carcinoma cell line), C6 (brain glioma cell line) cells, and healthy WI-38 (fibroblast normal cell line) cell lines and their antimicrobial activities on 10 different microorganisms. The synthesized AgNPs and AgNPs-PTX were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning transmission electron microscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray spectroscopy. The nanoparticles were spherical in shape, with AgNPs ranging in size from 2.32 to 5.6 nm and AgNPs-PTXs from 24.36 to 58.77 nm. AgNPs demonstrated well stability of -47.3 mV, and AgNPs-PTX showed good stability of -25.4 mV. The antiproliferative effects of the synthesized nanoparticles were determined by XTT (tetrazolium dye; 2,3-bis-(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfenyl)-(2H)-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide), and the proapoptotic effects were determined by annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining. The effect of AgNPs-PTX was more effective, and anticancer activity was higher than PTX in all cell lines. When selectivity indices were calculated, AgNPs-PTX was more selective in the A549 cell line (SI value 6.53 μg/mL). AgNPs-PTX was determined to increase apoptosis cells by inducing DNA fragmentation. To determine the antimicrobial activity, the MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) test was performed using 8 different bacteria and 2 different fungi. Seven of the 10 microorganisms tested exhibited high antimicrobial activity according to the MIC ≤100 μg/mL standard, reaching MIC values below 100 μg/mL and 100 μg/mL for both AgNPs and AgNPs-PTX compared to reference sources. Compared to standard antibiotics, AgNPs-PTX was highly effective against 4 microorganisms.

SPIONs: Superparamagnetic iron oxide-based nanoparticles for the delivery of microRNAi-therapeutics in cancer

Non-coding RNA (ncRNA)-based therapeutics that induce RNA interference (RNAi), such as microRNAs (miRNAs), have drawn considerable attention as a novel class of targeted cancer therapeutics because of their capacity to specifically target oncogenes/protooncogenes that regulate key signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis, tumor growth and progression, metastasis, cell survival, proliferation, angiogenesis, and drug resistance. However, clinical translation of miRNA-based therapeutics, in particular, has been challenging due to the ineffective delivery of ncRNA molecules into tumors and their uptake into cancer cells. Recently, superparamagnetic iron oxide-based nanoparticles (SPIONs) have emerged as highly effective and efficient for the delivery of therapeutic RNAs to malignant tissues, as well as theranostic (therapy and diagnostic) applications, due to their excellent biocompatibility, magnetic responsiveness, broad functional surface modification, safety, and biodistribution profiles. This review highlights recent advances in the use of SPIONs for the delivery of ncRNA-based therapeutics with an emphasis on their synthesis and coating strategies. Moreover, the advantages and current limitations of SPIONs and their future perspectives are discussed.

Package delivered: folate receptor-mediated transporters in cancer therapy and diagnosis

Neoplasias pose a significant threat to aging society, underscoring the urgent need to overcome the limitations of traditional chemotherapy through pioneering strategies. Targeted drug delivery is an evolving frontier in cancer therapy, aiming to enhance treatment efficacy while mitigating undesirable side effects. One promising avenue utilizes cell membrane receptors like the folate receptor to guide drug transporters precisely to malignant cells. Based on the cellular folate receptor as a cancer cell hallmark, targeted nanocarriers and small molecule-drug conjugates have been developed that comprise different (bio) chemistries and/or mechanical properties with individual advantages and challenges. Such modern folic acid-conjugated stimuli-responsive drug transporters provide systemic drug delivery and controlled release, enabling reduced dosages, circumvention of drug resistance, and diminished adverse effects. Since the drug transporters' structure-based de novo design is increasingly relevant for precision cancer remediation and diagnosis, this review seeks to collect and debate the recent approaches to deliver therapeutics or diagnostics based on folic acid conjugated Trojan Horses and to facilitate the understanding of the relevant chemistry and biochemical pathways. Focusing exemplarily on brain and breast cancer, recent advances spanning 2017 to 2023 in conjugated nanocarriers and small molecule drug conjugates were considered, evaluating the chemical and biological aspects in order to improve accessibility to the field and to bridge chemical and biomedical points of view ultimately guiding future research in FR-targeted cancer therapy and diagnosis.

Synthesis and Characterization of Graphene Oxide/Polyethylene Glycol/Folic Acid/Brucine Nanocomposites and Their Anticancer Activity on HepG2 Cells

Background

Liver cancer is the sixth most prevalent form of cancer and the second major cause of cancer-associated mortalities worldwide. Cancer nanotechnology has the ability to fundamentally alter cancer treatment, diagnosis, and detection.

Objective

In this study, we explained the development of graphene oxide/polyethylene glycol/folic acid/brucine nanocomposites (GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs) and evaluated their antimicrobial and anticancer effect on the liver cancer HepG2 cells.

Methodology

The GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs were prepared using the co-precipitation technique and characterized using various techniques. The cytotoxicity of the GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs was tested against both liver cancer HepG2 and non-malignant Vero cells using an MTT assay. The antimicrobial activity of the GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs was tested against several pathogens using the well diffusion technique. The effects of GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs on endogenous ROS accumulation, apoptosis, and MMP levels were examined using corresponding fluorescent staining assays, respectively. The apoptotic protein expressions, such as Bax, Bcl-2, and caspases, were studied using the corresponding kits.

Results

The findings of various characterization assays revealed the development of GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs with face-centered spherical morphology and an agglomerated appearance with an average size of 197.40 nm. The GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs treatment remarkably inhibited the growth of the tested pathogens. The findings of the MTT assay evidenced that the GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs effectively reduced the HepG2 cell growth while not showing toxicity to the Vero cells. The findings of the fluorescent assay proved that the GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs increased ROS generation, reduced MMP levels, and promoted apoptosis in the HepG2 cells. The levels of Bax, caspase-9, and -3 were increased, and Bcl-2 was reduced in the GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs-treated HepG2 cells.

Conclusion

The results of this work demonstrate that GO/PEG/Bru-FA NCs suppress viability and induce apoptosis in HepG2 cells, indicating their potential as an anticancer candidate.

Biomaterials for Drug Delivery and Human Applications

Biomaterials embody a groundbreaking paradigm shift in the field of drug delivery and human applications. Their versatility and adaptability have not only enriched therapeutic outcomes but also significantly reduced the burden of adverse effects. This work serves as a comprehensive overview of biomaterials, with a particular emphasis on their pivotal role in drug delivery, classifying them in terms of their biobased, biodegradable, and biocompatible nature, and highlighting their characteristics and advantages. The examination also delves into the extensive array of applications for biomaterials in drug delivery, encompassing diverse medical fields such as cancer therapy, cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, and vaccination. This work also explores the actual challenges within this domain, including potential toxicity and the complexity of manufacturing processes. These challenges emphasize the necessity for thorough research and the continuous development of regulatory frameworks. The second aim of this review is to navigate through the compelling terrain of recent advances and prospects in biomaterials, envisioning a healthcare landscape where they empower precise, targeted, and personalized drug delivery. The potential for biomaterials to transform healthcare is staggering, as they promise treatments tailored to individual patient needs, offering hope for improved therapeutic efficacy, fewer side effects, and a brighter future for medical practice.

Development of 5-fluorouracil/etoposide co-loaded electrospun nanofibrous scaffold for localized anti-melanoma therapy

Nanofibrous scaffolds have emerged as promising candidates for localized drug delivery systems in the treatment of cutaneous cancers. In this study, we prepared an electrospun nanofibrous scaffold incorporating 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and etoposide (ETP) for chemotherapy targeting melanoma cutaneous cancer. The scaffold was composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS), prepared via the electrospinning process and loaded with the chemotherapeutic agents. We conducted relevant physicochemical characterizations, assessed cytotoxicity, and evaluated apoptosis against melanoma A375 cells. The prepared 5-FU/ETP co-loaded PVA/CS scaffold exhibited nanofibers (NFs) with an average diameter of 321 ± 61 nm, defect-free and homogenous morphology. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed successful incorporation of chemotherapeutics into the scaffold. Additionally, the scaffold demonstrated a hydrophilic surface, proper mechanical strength, high porosity, and efficient liquid absorption capacity. Notably, sustained and controlled drug release was observed from the nanofibrous scaffold. Furthermore, the scaffold significantly increased cytotoxicity (95%) and apoptosis (74%) in A375 melanoma cells. Consequently, the prepared 5-FU/ETP co-loaded PVA/CS nanofibrous scaffold holds promise as a valuable system for localized eradication of cutaneous melanoma tumors and mitigation of adverse drug reactions associated with chemotherapy.

Novel Strategies Using Sagacious Targeting for Site-Specific Drug Delivery in Breast Cancer Treatment: Clinical Potential and Applications

For more than a decade, researchers have been working to achieve new strategies and smart targeting drug delivery techniques and technologies to treat breast cancer (BC). Nanotechnology presents a hopeful strategy for targeted drug delivery into the building of new therapeutics using the properties of nanomaterials. Nanoparticles are of high regard in the field of diagnosis and the treatment of cancer. The use of these nanoparticles as an encouraging approach in the treatment of various cancers has drawn the interest of researchers in recent years. In order to achieve the maximum therapeutic effectiveness in the treatment of BC, combination therapy has also been adopted, leading to minimal side effects and thus an enhancement in the quality of life for patients. This review article compares, discusses and criticizes the approaches to treat BC using novel design strategies and smart targeting of site-specific drug delivery systems.

Nitrogen-fused Heterocycles: Empowering Anticancer Drug Discovery

The worldwide impact of cancer is further compounded by the constraints of current anticancer medications, which frequently exhibit a lack of selectivity, raise safety apprehensions, result in significant adverse reactions, and encounter resistance mechanisms. The current situation highlights the pressing need to develop novel and more precise anticancer agents that prioritize safety and target specificity. Remarkably, more than 85% of drugs with physiological activity contain heterocyclic structures or at least one heteroatom. Nitrogen-containing heterocycles hold a significant position among these compounds, emerging as the most prevalent framework within the realm of heterocyclic chemistry. This article explores the medicinal chemistry behind these molecules, highlighting their potential as game-changing possibilities for anticancer medication development. The analysis highlights the inherent structural variety in nitrogen-containing heterocycles, revealing their potential to be customized for creating personalized anticancer medications. It also emphasizes the importance of computational techniques and studies on the relationships between structure and activity, providing a road map for rational medication design and optimization. Nitrogen- containing heterocycles are a promising new area of study in the fight against cancer, and this review summarises the state of the field so far. By utilizing their inherent characteristics and exploiting cooperative scientific investigations, these heterocyclic substances exhibit potential at the forefront of pioneering therapeutic approaches in combating the multifaceted obstacles posed by cancer.

Quantum Dot-based Bio-conjugates as an Emerging Bioimaging Tool for Cancer Theranostic- A Review

Cancer is the most widely studied disorder in humans, but proper treatment has not yet been developed for it. Conventional therapies, like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, have been employed. Such therapies target not only cancerous cells but also harm normal cells. Conventional therapy does not result in specific targeting and hence leads to severe side effects. The main objective of this study is to explore the QDs. QDs are used as nanocarriers for diagnosis and treatment at the same time. They are based on the principle of theranostic approach. QDs can be conjugated with antibodies via various methods that result in targeted therapy. This results in their dual function as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. Nanotechnology involving such nanocarriers can increase the specificity and reduce the side effects, leaving the normal cells unaffected. This review pays attention to different methods for synthesising QDs. QDs can be obtained using either organic method and synthetic methods. It was found that QDs synthesised naturally are more feasible than the synthetic process. Top or bottom-up approaches have also emerged for the synthesis of QDs. QDs can be conjugated with an antibody via non-covalent and covalent binding. Covalent binding is much more feasible than any other method. Zero-length coupling plays an important role as EDC (1-Ethyl-3-Ethyl dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide is a strong crosslinker and is widely used for conjugating molecules. Antibodies work as surface ligands that lead to antigen- antibody interaction, resulting in site-specific targeting and leaving behind the normal cells unaffected. Cellular uptake of the molecule is done by either passive targeting or active targeting. QDs are tiny nanocrystals that are inorganic in nature and vary in size and range. Based on different sizes, they emit light of specific wavelengths. They have their own luminescent and optical properties that lead to the monitoring, imaging, and transport of the therapeutic moiety to a variety of targets in the body. The surface of the QDs is modified to boost their functioning. They act as a tool for diagnosis, imaging, and delivery of therapeutic moieties. For improved therapeutic effects, nanotechnology leads the cellular uptake of nanoparticles via passive targeting or active targeting. It is a crucial platform that not only leads to imaging and diagnosis but also helps to deliver therapeutic moieties to specific sites. Therefore, this review concludes that there are numerous drawbacks to the current cancer treatment options, which ultimately result in treatment failure. Therefore, nanotechnology that involves such a nanocarrier will serve as a tool for overcoming all limitations of the traditional therapeutic approach. This approach helps in reducing the dose of anticancer agents for effective treatment and hence improving the therapeutic index. QDs can not only diagnose a disease but also deliver drugs to the cancerous site.

The Advancement and Obstacles in Improving the Stability of Nanocarriers for Precision Drug Delivery in the Field of Nanomedicine

Nanocarriers have emerged as a promising class of nanoscale materials in the fields of drug delivery and biomedical applications. Their unique properties, such as high surface area- tovolume ratios and enhanced permeability and retention effects, enable targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to specific tissues or cells. However, the inherent instability of nanocarriers poses significant challenges to their successful application. This review highlights the importance of nanocarrier stability in biomedical applications and its impact on biocompatibility, targeted drug delivery, long shelf life, drug delivery performance, therapeutic efficacy, reduced side effects, prolonged circulation time, and targeted delivery. Enhancing nanocarrier stability requires careful design, engineering, and optimization of physical and chemical parameters. Various strategies and cutting-edge techniques employed to improve nanocarrier stability are explored, with a focus on their applications in drug delivery. By understanding the advances and challenges in nanocarrier stability, this review aims to contribute to the development and implementation of nanocarrier- based therapies in clinical settings, advancing the field of nanomedicine.

A Path of Novelty from Nanoparticles to Nanobots: Theragnostic Approach for Targeting Cancer Therapy

Pharmaceutical development of cancer therapeutics is a dynamic area of research. Even after decades of intensive work, cancer continues to be a dreadful disease with an ever-increasing global incidence. The progress of nanotechnology in cancer research has overcome inherent limitations in conventional cancer chemotherapy and fulfilled the need for target-specific drug carriers. Nanotechnology uses the altered patho-physiological microenvironment of malignant cells and offers various advantages like improved solubility, reduced toxicity, prolonged drug circulation with controlled release, circumventing multidrug resistance, and enhanced biodistribution. Early cancer detection has a crucial role in selecting the best drug regime, thus, diagnosis and therapeutics go hand in hand. Furthermore, nanobots are an amazing possibility and promising innovation with numerous significant applications, particularly in fighting cancer and cleaning out blood vessels. Nanobots are tiny robots, ranging in size from 1 to 100 nm. Moreover, the nanobots would work similarly to white blood cells, watching the bloodstream and searching for indications of distress. This review articulates the evolution of various organic and inorganic nanoparticles and nanobots used as therapeutics, along with their pros and cons. It also highlights the shift in diagnostics from conventional methods to more advanced techniques. This rapidly growing domain is providing more space for engineering desired nanoparticles that can show miraculous results in therapeutic and diagnostic trials.

Nano-scale delivery systems for siRNA delivery in cancer therapy: New era of gene therapy empowered by nanotechnology

RNA interference (RNAi) is a unique treatment approach used to decrease a disease's excessive gene expression, including cancer. SiRNAs may find and destroy homologous mRNA sequences within the cell thanks to RNAi processes. However, difficulties such poor cellular uptake, off-target effects, and susceptibility to destruction by serum nucleases in the bloodstream restrict the therapeutic potential of siRNAs. Since some years ago, siRNA-based therapies have been in the process of being translated into the clinic. Therefore, the primary emphasis of this work is on sophisticated nanocarriers that aid in the transport of siRNA payloads, their administration in combination with anticancer medications, and their use in the treatment of cancer. The research looks into molecular manifestations, difficulties with siRNA transport, the design and development of siRNA-based delivery methods, and the benefits and drawbacks of various nanocarriers. The trapping of siRNA in endosomes is a challenge for the majority of delivery methods, which affects the therapeutic effectiveness. Numerous techniques for siRNA release, including as pH-responsive release, membrane fusion, the proton sponge effect, and photochemical disruption, have been studied to overcome this problem. The present state of siRNA treatments in clinical trials is also looked at in order to give a thorough and systematic evaluation of siRNA-based medicines for efficient cancer therapy.