Nanoparticles as Carriers of Proteins, Peptides and Other Therapeutic Molecules

Se-functionalized ZIF-8 nanoparticles: synthesis, characterization and disruption of biofilms and quorum sensing inSerratia marcescens

The majority of research on nanomaterials has been concentrated on metal nanoparticles since they are easily made and manipulated. Nanomaterials have shown a wide range of applications in biology. Nevertheless, their bioactivity declines due to their extreme susceptibility to and novel Se@ZIF-8 by chemical method. The sizes and morphologies of Se (0) and Se@ZIFchemical and physical stimuli. The goal of encapsulating these nanomaterials in a matrix is gradually being pursued, which boosts their affordability, stability, and usability. Metal-organic frameworks, often known as MOFs, have the potential to be the best platforms for encapsulating metal nanoparticles due to their well-defined frameworks, persistent porosity, and flexibility in modification. In this investigation, we report the synthesis and optimization of polyvinylpyrrolidone-stabilized Se(0) nanoparticles -8 were affected by the ratios of Se/Zn2+and [hmim]/Zn2+used. The optimized Se@ZIF-8 nanoparticles exhibited a particle size and zeta potential of 319 nm and -34 mv respectively. Transmission electron microscopy displayed spherical morphology for Se(0) nanoparticles, whereas the surface morphology of novel Se@ZIF-8 nanoparticles was drastically changed to hexagonal shaped structures with smooth surface morphologies in scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The DTA, TG/DTG, XRD analysis confirmed the presence of novel Se incorporated ZIF-8 nanoparticulate framework. The synthesized novel Se@ZIF-8 nanoparticles showed efficient antibacterial activity as evidenced by low MIC values. Interestingly, these Se@ZIF-8 NPs not only inhibited biofilm formation inS. marcescens,but also effectively eradicated mature biofilms by degrading the eDNA of the EPS layer. It was validated by confocal laser scanning microscopy and SEM analysis. It was observed that Se@ZIF-8 targeted the Quroum Sensing pathway and reduced its associated virulence factors production. This work opens up a different approach of Se@ZIF-8 nanoparticles as novel antibiotics to treat biofilm-associated infections caused byS. marcescensand offer a solution for antimicrobial resistance.

Suborgan Level Quantitation of Proteins in Tissues Delivered by Polymeric Nanocarriers

Amidst the rapid growth of protein therapeutics as a drug class, there is an increased focus on designing systems to effectively deliver proteins to target organs. Quantitative monitoring of protein distributions in tissues is essential for optimal development of delivery systems; however, existing strategies can have limited accuracy, making it difficult to assess suborgan dosing. Here, we describe a quantitative imaging approach that utilizes metal-coded mass tags and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) to quantify the suborgan distributions of proteins in tissues that have been delivered by polymeric nanocarriers. Using this approach, we measure nanomole per gram levels of proteins as delivered by guanidinium-functionalized poly(oxanorborneneimide) (PONI) polymers to various tissues, including the alveolar region of the lung. Due to the multiplexing capability of the LA-ICP-MS imaging, we are also able to simultaneously quantify protein and polymer distributions, obtaining valuable information about the relative excretion pathways of the protein cargo and carrier. This imaging approach will facilitate quantitative correlations between nanocarrier properties and protein cargo biodistributions.

Polymers and their engineered analogues for ocular drug delivery: Enhancing therapeutic precision

Ocular drug delivery is constrained by anatomical and physiological barriers, necessitating innovative solutions for effective therapy. Natural polymers like hyaluronic acid, chitosan, and gelatin, alongside synthetic counterparts such as PLGA and PEG, have gained prominence for their biocompatibility and controlled release profiles. Recent strides in polymer conjugation strategies have enabled targeted delivery through ligand integration, facilitating tissue specificity and cellular uptake. This versatility accommodates combined drug delivery, addressing diverse anterior (e.g., glaucoma, dry eye) and posterior segment (e.g., macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy) afflictions. The review encompasses an in-depth exploration of each natural and synthetic polymer, detailing their individual advantages and disadvantages for ocular drug delivery. By transcending ocular barriers and refining therapeutic precision, these innovations promise to reshape the management of anterior and posterior segment eye diseases.

Fe3O4SPIONs in cancer theranostics-structure versus interactions with proteins and methods of their investigation

As the second leading cause of death worldwide, neoplastic diseases are one of the biggest challenges for public health care. Contemporary medicine seeks potential tools for fighting cancer within nanomedicine, as various nanomaterials can be used for both diagnostics and therapies. Among those of particular interest are superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs), due to their unique magnetic properties,. However, while the number of new SPIONs, suitably modified and functionalized, designed for medical purposes, has been gradually increasing, it has not yet been translated into the number of approved clinical solutions. The presented review covers various issues related to SPIONs of potential theranostic applications. It refers to structural considerations (the nanoparticle core, most often used modifications and functionalizations) and the ways of characterizing newly designed nanoparticles. The discussion about the phenomenon of protein corona formation leads to the conclusion that the scarcity of proper tools to investigate the interactions between SPIONs and human serum proteins is the reason for difficulties in introducing them into clinical applications. The review emphasizes the importance of understanding the mechanism behind the protein corona formation, as it has a crucial impact on the effectiveness of designed SPIONs in the physiological environment.

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.

Polysaccharides and proteins-based bionanocomposites for microencapsulation of probiotics to improve stability and viability in the gastrointestinal tract: A review

Probiotics have recently received significant attention due to their various benefits, such as the modulation of gut flora, reduction of blood sugar and insulin resistance, prevention and treatment of digestive disorders, and strengthening of the immune system. One of the major issues concerning probiotics is the maintenance of their viability in the presence of digestive conditions and extended shelf life during storage. To address this concern, numerous techniques have been explored to achieve success. Among these methods, the microencapsulation of probiotics has been proposed as the most effective way to overcome this challenge. The combination of nanomaterials with biopolymer coating is considered a novel approach to improve its viability and effective delivery. The use of polysaccharides and proteins-based bionanocomposites for microencapsulation of probiotics has emerged as an efficient and promising approach for maintaining cell viability and targeted delivery. This review article aims to investigate the use of different bionanocomposites in microencapsulation of probiotics and their effect on cell survival in long-term storage and harsh conditions in the gastrointestinal tract.

Enzymes for dermatological use

Skin is the ultimate barrier between body and environment and prevents water loss and penetration of pathogens and toxins. Internal and external stressors, such as ultraviolet radiation (UVR), can damage skin integrity and lead to disorders. Therefore, skin health and skin ageing are important concerns and increased research from cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors aims to improve skin conditions and provide new anti-ageing treatments. Biomolecules, compared to low molecular weight drugs and cosmetic ingredients, can offer high levels of specificity. Topically applied enzymes have been investigated to treat the adverse effects of sunlight, pollution and other external agents. Enzymes, with a diverse range of targets, present potential for dermatological use such as antioxidant enzymes, proteases and repairing enzymes. In this review, we discuss enzymes for dermatological applications and the challenges associated in this growing field.

Gelatin-coated silicon oxide nanoparticles encapsulated recombinant human secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (rhSLPI) reduced cardiac cell death against an in vitro simulated ischaemia/reperfusion injury

Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) is the main global cause of death. Previous studies indicated that recombinant human secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (rhSLPI) exhibits a cardioprotective effect against myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, SLPI has a short half-life in vivo due to digestion by protease enzymes in circulation. The application of nanoparticle encapsulation could be beneficial for SLPI delivery. Several types of nanoparticles have been developed to encapsulate SLPI and applied in some disease models. However, silica nanoparticles for rhSLPI delivery, particularly on myocardial I/R injury, have never been studied. In this study, we aimed to fabricate gelatin-covered silica nanoparticles (GSNPs) to encapsulate rhSLPI and cardioprotective effect of GSNP-SLPI against an in vitro simulated ischaemia/reperfusion (sI/R). Silica dioxide nanoparticles (SNPs) were fabricated followed by incubation with 0.33 mg/mL of rhSLPI. Then, SNPs containing rhSLPI were coated with gelatin (GSNPs). The GSNPs and rhSLPI-GSNPs were characterized by particle size, zeta potential, and morphology scanning electron microscope (SEM). The concentration of rhSLPI in rhSLPI-GSNPs and drug release was determined by ELISA. Then, cytotoxicity and cardioprotective effect were determined by incubation of GSNPs or rhSLPI-GSNPs with rat cardiac myoblast cell line (H9c2) subjected to simulated ischaemia/reperfusion (sI/R). The results showed the particle size of SNPs, GSNPs, and rhSLPI-GSNPs was 273, 300, and 301 nm, with a zeta potential of -57.21, -22.40, and -24.50 mV, respectively. One milligram of rhSLPI-GSNPs contains 235 ng of rhSLPI. The rhSLPI-GSNPs showed no cytotoxicity on cardiac cells. Treatment with 10 μg/ml of rhSLPI-GSNPs could significantly reduce sI/R induced cardiac cell injury and death. In conclusion, this is the first study to show successful of fabricating novel rhSLPI-encapsulating gelatin-covered silica nanoparticles (rhSLPI-GSNPs) and the cardioprotective effects of rhSLPI-GSNPs against cardiac cell injury and death from myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion.

Novel insights regarding the role of noncoding RNAs in diabetes

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of metabolic disorders defined by hyperglycemia induced by insulin resistance, inadequate insulin secretion, or excessive glucagon secretion. In 2021, the global prevalence of diabetes is anticipated to be 10.7% (537 million people). Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) appear to have an important role in the initiation and progression of DM, according to a growing body of research. The two major groups of ncRNAs implicated in diabetic disorders are miRNAs and long noncoding RNAs. miRNAs are single-stranded, short (17–25 nucleotides), ncRNAs that influence gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Because DM has reached epidemic proportions worldwide, it appears that novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are required to identify and treat complications associated with these diseases efficiently. miRNAs are gaining attention as biomarkers for DM diagnosis and potential treatment due to their function in maintaining physiological homeostasis via gene expression regulation. In this review, we address the issue of the gradually expanding global prevalence of DM by presenting a complete and up-to-date synopsis of various regulatory miRNAs involved in these disorders. We hope this review will spark discussion about ncRNAs as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic tools for DM. We examine and synthesize recent research that used novel, high-throughput technologies to uncover ncRNAs involved in DM, necessitating a systematic approach to examining and summarizing their roles and possible diagnostic and therapeutic uses.

Caffeic Acid-Zinc Basic Salt/Chitosan Nanohybrid Possesses Controlled Release Properties and Exhibits In Vivo Anti-Inflammatory Activities

Caffeic acid (CA) exhibits a myriad of biological activities including cardioprotective action, antioxidant, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. On the other hand, CA presents low water solubility and poor bioavailability, which have limited its use for therapeutic applications. The objective of this study was to develop a nanohybrid of zinc basic salts (ZBS) and chitosan (Ch) containing CA (ZBS-CA/Ch) and evaluate its anti-edematogenic and antioxidant activity in dextran and carrageenan-induced paw edema model. The samples were obtained by coprecipitation method and characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and UV-visible spectroscopy. The release of caffeate anions from ZBS-CA and ZBS-CA/Ch is pH-dependent and is explained by a pseudo-second order kinetics model, with a linear correlation coefficient of R² ≥ 0.99 at pH 4.8 and 7.4. The in vivo pharmacological assays showed excellent anti-edematogenic and antioxidant action of the ZBS-CA/Ch nanoparticle with slowly releases of caffeate anions in the tissue, leading to a prolongation of CA-induced anti-edematogenic and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as improving its inhibition or sequestration antioxidant action toward reactive species. Overall, this study highlighted the importance of ZBS-CA/Ch as an optimal drug carrier.

Cell-Membrane-Coated and Cell-Penetrating Peptide-Conjugated Trimagnetic Nanoparticles for Targeted Magnetic Hyperthermia of Prostate Cancer Cells

Prostate malignancy represents the second leading cause of cancer-specific death among the male population worldwide. Herein, enhanced intracellular magnetic fluid hyperthermia is applied in vitro to treat prostate cancer (PCa) cells with minimum invasiveness and toxicity and highly specific targeting. We designed and optimized novel shape-anisotropic magnetic core-shell-shell nanoparticles (i.e., trimagnetic nanoparticles - TMNPs) with significant magnetothermal conversion following an exchange coupling effect to an external alternating magnetic field (AMF). The functional properties of the best candidate in terms of heating efficiency (i.e., Fe₃O₄@Mn_0.5Zn_0.5Fe₂O₄@CoFe₂O₄) were exploited following surface decoration with PCa cell membranes (CM) and/or LN1 cell-penetrating peptide (CPP). We demonstrated that the combination of biomimetic dual CM-CPP targeting and AMF responsiveness significantly induces caspase 9-mediated apoptosis of PCa cells. Furthermore, a downregulation of the cell cycle progression markers and a decrease of the migration rate in surviving cells were observed in response to the TMNP-assisted magnetic hyperthermia, suggesting a reduction in cancer cell aggressiveness.

Caenorhabditis elegans as a Prediction Platform for Nanotechnology-Based Strategies: Insights on Analytical Challenges

Nanotechnology-based strategies have played a pivotal role in innovative products in different technological fields, including medicine, agriculture, and engineering. The redesign of the nanometric scale has improved drug targeting and delivery, diagnosis, water treatment, and analytical methods. Although efficiency brings benefits, toxicity in organisms and the environment is a concern, particularly in light of global climate change and plastic disposal in the environment. Therefore, to measure such effects, alternative models enable the assessment of impacts on both functional properties and toxicity. Caenorhabditis elegans is a nematode model that poses valuable advantages such as transparency, sensibility in responding to exogenous compounds, fast response to perturbations besides the possibility to replicate human disease through transgenics. Herein, we discuss the applications of C. elegans to nanomaterial safety and efficacy evaluations from one health perspective. We also highlight the directions for developing appropriate techniques to safely adopt magnetic and organic nanoparticles, and carbon nanosystems. A description was given of the specifics of targeting and treatment, especially for health purposes. Finally, we discuss C. elegans potential for studying the impacts caused by nanopesticides and nanoplastics as emerging contaminants, pointing out gaps in environmental studies related to toxicity, analytical methods, and future directions.

Cabazitaxel-Loaded Nanoparticles Reduce the Invasiveness in Metastatic Prostate Cancer Cells: Beyond the Classical Taxane Function

Bone-metastatic prostate cancer symbolizes the beginning of the later stages of the disease. We designed a cabazitaxel-loaded, poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticle using an emulsion-diffusion-evaporation technique. Bis (sulfosuccinimidyl) suberate (BS3) was non-covalently inserted into the nanoparticle as a linker for the conjugation of a bone-targeting moiety to the outside of the nanoparticle. We hypothesized that the nanoparticles would have the ability to inhibit the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and migration in prostate cancer cells. Targeted, cabazitaxel-loaded nanoparticles attenuated the EMT marker, Vimentin, and led to an increased E-cadherin expression. These changes impart epithelial characteristics and inhibit invasive properties in cancer progression. Consequently, progression to distant sites is also mitigated. We observed the reduction of phosphorylated Src at tyrosine 416, along with increased expression of phosphorylated cofilin at serine 3. These changes could affect migration and invasion pathways in cancer cells. Both increased p-120 catenin and inhibition in IL-8 expression were seen in targeted, cabazitaxel-loaded nanoparticles. Overall, our data show that the targeted, cabazitaxel-loaded nanoparticles can act as a promising treatment for metastatic prostate cancer by inhibiting EMT, invasion, and migration, in prostate cancer cells.

Recent Advances in Cancer Immunotherapy Delivery Modalities

Immunotherapy is crucial in fighting cancer and achieving successful remission. Many novel strategies have recently developed, but there are still some obstacles to overcome before we can effectively attack the cancer cells and decimate the cancer environment by inducing a cascade of immune responses. To successfully demonstrate antitumor activity, immune cells must be delivered to cancer cells and exposed to the immune system. Such cutting-edge technology necessitates meticulously designed delivery methods with no loss or superior homing onto cancer environments, as well as high therapeutic efficacy and fewer adverse events. In this paper, we discuss recent advances in cancer immunotherapy delivery techniques, as well as their future prospects.

Opposites Attract: Electrostatically Driven Loading of Antimicrobial Peptides into Phytoglycogen Nanocarriers

Antimicrobial peptides, such as GL13K, have a high binding selectivity toward bacterial membranes, while not affecting healthy mammalian cells at therapeutic concentrations. However, delivery of these peptides is challenging since they are susceptible to proteolytic hydrolysis and exhibit poor cellular uptake. A protective nanocarrier is thus proposed to overcome these obstacles. We investigate the potential to employ biodegradable phytoglycogen nanoparticles as carriers for GL13K using a simple loading protocol based on electrostatic association rather than chemical conjugation, eliminating the need for control of chemical cleavage for release of the peptide in situ. Both the native (quasi-neutral) and carboxymethylated (anionic) phytoglycogen were evaluated for their colloidal stability, loading capacity, and release characteristics. We show that the anionic nanophytoglycogen carries a greater cationic GL13K load and exhibits slower release kinetics than native nanophytoglycogen. Isotope exchange measurements demonstrate that the antimicrobial peptide is entrapped in the pores of the dendritic-like macromolecule, which should provide the necessary protection for delivery. Importantly, the nanoformulations are active against a Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolate at concentrations comparable to those of the free peptide and representative, small molecule antibiotics. The colloidal nanocarrier preserves peptide stability and antimicrobial activity, even after long periods of storage (at least 8 months).

Ocular Delivery of Therapeutic Proteins: A Review

Therapeutic proteins, including monoclonal antibodies, single chain variable fragment (ScFv), crystallizable fragment (Fc), and fragment antigen binding (Fab), have accounted for one-third of all drugs on the world market. In particular, these medicines have been widely used in ocular therapies in the treatment of various diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration, corneal neovascularization, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion. However, the formulation of these biomacromolecules is challenging due to their high molecular weight, complex structure, instability, short half-life, enzymatic degradation, and immunogenicity, which leads to the failure of therapies. Various efforts have been made to overcome the ocular barriers, providing effective delivery of therapeutic proteins, such as altering the protein structure or including it in new delivery systems. These strategies are not only cost-effective and beneficial to patients but have also been shown to allow for fewer drug side effects. In this review, we discuss several factors that affect the design of formulations and the delivery of therapeutic proteins to ocular tissues, such as the use of injectable micro/nanocarriers, hydrogels, implants, iontophoresis, cell-based therapy, and combination techniques. In addition, other approaches are briefly discussed, related to the structural modification of these proteins, improving their bioavailability in the posterior segments of the eye without affecting their stability. Future research should be conducted toward the development of more effective, stable, noninvasive, and cost-effective formulations for the ocular delivery of therapeutic proteins. In addition, more insights into preclinical to clinical translation are needed.

Polymeric Nanotechnologies for the Treatment of Periodontitis: A Chronological Review

Periodontitis is a chronic infectious and inflammatory disease of periodontal tissues estimated to affect 70 - 80 % of all adults. At the same time, periodontium, the site of periodontal pathologies, is an extraordinarily complex plexus of soft and hard tissues, the regeneration of which using even the most advanced forms of tissue engineering continues to be a challenge. Nanotechnologies, meanwhile, have provided exquisite tools for producing biomaterials and pharmaceutical formulations capable of elevating the efficacies of standard pharmacotherapies and surgical approaches to whole new levels. A bibliographic analysis provided here demonstrates a continuously increasing research output of studies on the use of nanotechnologies in the management of periodontal disease, even when they are normalized to the total output of studies on periodontitis. The great majority of biomaterials used to tackle periodontitis, including those that pioneered this interesting field, have been polymeric. In this article, a chronological review of polymeric nanotechnologies for the treatment of periodontitis is provided, focusing on the major conceptual innovations since the late 1990s, when the first nanostructures for the treatment of periodontal diseases were fabricated. In the opening sections, the etiology and pathogenesis of periodontitis and the anatomical and histological characteristics of the periodontium are being described, along with the general clinical manifestations of the disease and the standard means of its therapy. The most prospective chemistries in the design of polymers for these applications are also elaborated. It is concluded that the amount of innovation in this field is on the rise, despite the fact that most studies are focused on the refinement of already established paradigms in tissue engineering rather than on the development of revolutionary new concepts.

The Application of the CRISPR-Cas System in Antibiotic Resistance

The emergence and global epidemic of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a serious threat to global public health in recent years. AMR genes are shared between bacterial pathogens mainly via horizontal gene transfer (HGT) on mobile genetic elements (MGEs), thereby accelerating the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and increasing the burden of drug resistance. There is an urgent need to develop new strategies to control bacterial infections and the spread of antimicrobial resistance. The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated proteins (Cas) are an RNA-guided adaptive immune system in prokaryotes that recognizes and defends against invasive genetic elements such as phages and plasmids. Because of its specifically target and cleave DNA sequences encoding antibiotic resistance genes, CRISPR/Cas system has been developed into a new gene-editing tool for the prevention and control of bacterial drug resistance. CRISPR-Cas plays a potentially important role in controlling horizontal gene transfer and limiting the spread of antibiotic resistance. In this review, we will introduce the structure and working mechanism of CRISPR-Cas systems, followed by delivery strategies, and then focus on the relationship between antimicrobial resistance and CRISPR-Cas. Moreover, the challenges and prospects of this research field are discussed, thereby providing a reference for the prevention and control of the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Diabetes mellitus and diabetic foot ulcer: Etiology, biochemical and molecular based treatment strategies via gene and nanotherapy

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a collection of metabolic and pathophysiological disorders manifested with high glucose levels in the blood due to the inability of β-pancreatic cells to secrete an adequate amount of insulin or insensitivity of insulin towards receptor to oxidize blood glucose. Nevertheless, the preceding definition is only applicable to people who do not have inherited or metabolic disorders. Suppose a person who has been diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2DM sustains an injury and the treatment of the damage is complicated and prolonged. In that case, the injury is referred to as a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). In the presence of many proliferating macrophages in the injury site for an extended period causes the damage to worsen and become a diabetic wound. In this review, the scientific information and therapeutic management of DM/DFU with nanomedicine, and other related data were collected (Web of Science and PubMed) from January 2000 to January 2022. Most of the articles revealed that standard drugs are usually prescribed along with hypoglycaemic medications. Conversely, such drugs stabilize the glucose transporters and homeostasis for a limited period, resulting in side effects such as kidney damage/failure, absorption/gastrointestinal problems, and hypoglycemic issues. In this paper, we review the current basic and clinical evidence about the potential of medicinal plants, gene therapy, chemical/green synthesized nanoparticles to improving the metabolic profile, and facilitating the DM and DFU associated complications. Preclinical studies also reported lower plasma glucose with molecular targets in DM and DFU. Research is underway to explore chemical/green synthesized nanoparticle-based medications to avoid such side effects. Hence, the present review is intended to address the current challenges, recently recognized factors responsible for DM and DFU, their pathophysiology, insulin receptors associated with DM, medications in trend, and related complications.

Antioxidant enzymes immobilized on gold and silver nanoparticles enhance DNA repairing systems of rat skin after exposure to ultraviolet radiation

The aim of the study was to investigate in vivo whether the application of immobilized superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) could enhance DNA repairing systems and reduce level of CPD (cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers) and 6-4PP ((6-4) pyrimidine-pyrimidone photoproducts), and whether the immobilization on gold (AuNPs) and silver (AgNPs) nanoparticles affects the outcome. The study presents secondary analysis of our previous research. Three-day application of SOD and CAT in all forms of solution decreased the levels of CPD and 6-4PP boosted by UV irradiation. The mRNA expression level of the nucleotide excision repair (NER) system genes (XPA, XPC, ERCC1, ERCC2, ERCC3, LIG1) increased after application of immobilized and free enzymes. Increased by UV irradiation, p53 mRNA expression level normalized with the enzyme application. In conclusion, application of free and immobilized antioxidant enzymes accelerates removal of harmful effects of UV radiation in the rat skin by increasing expression level of NER genes.

Multiplexed Analysis of the Cellular Uptake of Polymeric Nanocarriers

Polymeric nanocarriers (PNCs) are versatile drug delivery vehicles capable of delivering a variety of therapeutics. Quantitatively monitoring their uptake in biological systems is essential for realizing their potential as next-generation delivery systems; however, existing quantification strategies are limited due to the challenges of detecting polymeric materials in complex biological samples. Here, we describe a metal-coded mass tagging approach that enables the multiplexed quantification of the PNC uptake in cells using mass spectrometry (MS). In this approach, PNCs are conjugated with ligands that bind strongly to lanthanide ions, allowing the PNCs to be sensitively quantitated by inductively coupled plasma-MS. The metal-coded tags have little effect on the properties or toxicity of the PNCs, making them biocompatible. We demonstrate that the conjugation of different metals to the PNCs enables the multiplexed analysis of cellular uptake of multiple distinct PNCs at the same time. This multiplexing capability should improve the design and optimization of PNCs by minimizing biological variability and reducing analysis time, effort, and cost.

Mitochondria-Targeted, Nanoparticle-Based Drug-Delivery Systems: Therapeutics for Mitochondrial Disorders

Apart from ATP generation, mitochondria are involved in a wide range of functions, making them one of the most prominent organelles of the human cell. Mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in the pathophysiology of several diseases, such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders. This makes it a target for a variety of therapeutics for the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. The use of nanoparticles to target mitochondria has significant importance in modern times because they provide promising ways to deliver drug payloads to the mitochondria by overcoming challenges, such as low solubility and poor bioavailability, and also resolve the issues of the poor biodistribution of drugs and pharmacokinetics with increased specificity. This review assesses nanoparticle-based drug-delivery systems, such as liposomes, DQAsome, MITO-Porters, micelles, polymeric and metal nanocarriers, as well as quantum dots, as mitochondria-targeted strategies and discusses them as a treatment for mitochondrial disorders.

Modulation of Chitosan-TPP Nanoparticle Properties for Plasmid DNA Vaccines Delivery

Nucleic acid vaccines have become a revolutionary technology to give a fast, safe, cost-effective and efficient response against viral infections, such as SARS-CoV-2 or Human papillomavirus (HPV). However, to ensure their effectiveness, the development of adequate methods to protect, carry, and deliver nucleic acids is fundamental. In this work, nanoparticles (NPs) of chitosan (CS)-tripolyphosphate (TPP)-plasmid DNA (pDNA) were thoroughly modulated and characterized, by measuring the charge and size through dynamic light scattering (DLS) and morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Stability, cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of NPs were also evaluated. Finally, the effect of polyplexes on the expression of HPV E7 antigen in human fibroblast and RAW cells was investigated through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time PCR. The results showed NPs with a spherical/oval shape, narrow size distribution <180 nm and positive zeta potentials (>20 mV) and good stability after one month of storage at 4 °C in formulation buffer or when incubated in culture medium and trypsin. In vitro studies of NPs cytotoxicity revealed that the elimination of formulation buffers led to an improvement in the rate of cell viability. The E7 antigen transcription was also increased for NPs obtained with high pDNA concentration (60 μg/mL). The analyzed CS-TPP-pDNA polyplexes can offer a promising vehicle for nucleic acid vaccines, not only in the prevention or treatment of viral infections, but also to fight emergent and future pathogens.

New Approaches to Dendritic Cell-Based Therapeutic Vaccines Against HIV-1 Infection

Due to the success of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) in recent years, the pathological outcome of Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection has improved substantially, achieving undetectable viral loads in most cases. Nevertheless, the presence of a viral reservoir formed by latently infected cells results in patients having to maintain treatment for life. In the absence of effective eradication strategies against HIV-1, research efforts are focused on obtaining a cure. One of these approaches is the creation of therapeutic vaccines. In this sense, the most promising one up to now is based on the establishing of the immunological synapse between dendritic cells (DCs) and T lymphocytes (TL). DCs are one of the first cells of the immune system to encounter HIV-1 by acting as antigen presenting cells, bringing about the interaction between innate and adaptive immune responses mediated by TL. Furthermore, TL are the end effector, and their response capacity is essential in the adaptive elimination of cells infected by pathogens. In this review, we summarize the knowledge of the interaction between DCs with TL, as well as the characterization of the specific T-cell response against HIV-1 infection. The use of nanotechnology in the design and improvement of vaccines based on DCs has been researched and presented here with a special emphasis.

Anticancer peptide Q7 suppresses the growth and migration of human endometrial cancer by inhibiting DHCR24 expression and modulating the AKT-mediated pathway

Endometrial cancer is one of the most common malignancy affecting women in developed countries. Resection uterus or lesion area is usually the first option for a simple and efficient therapy. Therefore, it is necessary to find a new therapeutic drug to reduce surgery areas to preserve fertility. Anticancer peptides (ACP) are bioactive amino acids with lower toxicity and higher specificity than chemical drugs. This study is to address an ACP, herein named Q7, which could downregulate 24-Dehydrocholesterol Reductase (DHCR24) to disrupt lipid rafts formation, and sequentially affect the AKT signal pathway of HEC-1-A cells to suppress their tumorigenicity such as proliferation and migration. Moreover, lipo-PEI-PEG-complex (LPPC) was used to enhance Q7 anticancer activity in vitro and efficiently show its effects on HEC-1-A cells. Furthermore, LPPC-Q7 exhibited a synergistic effect in combination with doxorubicin or paclitaxel. To summarize, Q7 was firstly proved to exhibit an anticancer effect on endometrial cancer cells and combined with LPPC efficiently improved the cytotoxicity of Q7.

Reincarnation of the Analytical Ultracentrifuge: Emerging Opportunities for Nanomedicine

The analytical ultracentrifuge (AUC) and the modern field of analytical ultracentrifugation found its inception approximately a century ago. We highlight the scope of its major experimental opportunities as a transport-based method, contemporary and up-and-coming investigation potential for polymers, polymer-drug conjugates, polymer assemblies, as well as medical nanoparticles. Special focus lies on molar mass estimates of unimeric polymeric species, self-assemblies in solution, and (co)localization of multicomponent systems in solution alongside the material-biofluid interactions. We close with present challenges and incentives for future research.

Investigations on the interactions of proteins with nanocellulose produced via sulphuric acid hydrolysis

The investigation of protein-nanoparticle interactions contributes to the understanding of nanoparticle bio-reactivity and creates a database of nanoparticles for use in nanomedicine, nanodiagnosis, and nanotherapy. In this study, hen's egg white was used as the protein source to study the interaction of proteins with sulphuric acid hydrolysed nanocellulose (CNC). Several techniques such as FTIR, zeta potential measurement, UV-vis spectroscopy, compressive strength, TGA, contact angle and FESEM provide valuable information in the protein-CNC interaction study. The presence of a broader peak in the 1600-1050 cm^-1 range of CNC/egg white protein FTIR spectrum compared to the 1600-1050 cm^-1 range of CNC sample indicated the binding of egg white protein to CNC surface. The contact angle with the glass surface decreased with the addition of CNC to egg white protein. The FESEM EDX spectra showed a higher amount of N and Na on the surface of CNC. It indicates the density of protein molecules higher around CNC. The zeta potential of CNC changed from -26.7 ± 0.46 to -21.7 ± 0.2 with the introduction of egg white protein due to the hydrogen bonding, polar bonds and electrostatic interaction between surface CNC and protein. The compressive strength of the egg white protein films increased from 0.064 ± 0.01 to 0.36 ± 0.02 MPa with increasing the CNC concentration from 0 to 4.73% (w/v). The thermal decomposition temperature of CNC/egg white protein decreased compared to egg white protein thermal decomposition temperature. According to UV-Vis spectroscopy, the far-UV light (207-222nm) absorption peak slightly changed in the CNC/egg white protein spectrum compared to the egg white protein spectrum. Based on the results, the observations of protein nanoparticle interactions provide an additional understanding, besides the theoretical simulations from previous studies. Also, the results indicate to aim CNC for the application of nanomedicine and nanotherapy. A new insight given by us in this research assumes a reasonable solution to these crucial applications.

Nanoparticles Targeting Innate Immune Cells in Tumor Microenvironment

A variety of innate immune cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, natural killer cells, and neutrophils in the tumor microenvironments, contribute to tumor progression. However, while several recent reports have studied the use of immune checkpoint-based cancer immunotherapy, little work has focused on modulating the innate immune cells. This review focuses on the recent studies and challenges of using nanoparticles to target innate immune cells. In particular, we also examine the immunosuppressive properties of certain innate immune cells that limit clinical benefits. Understanding the cross-talk between tumors and innate immune cells could contribute to the development of strategies for manipulating the nanoparticles targeting tumor microenvironments.

Bioactive Peptides as Potential Nutraceuticals for Diabetes Therapy: A Comprehensive Review

Diabetes mellitus is a major public health concern associated with high mortality and reduced life expectancy. The alarming rise in the prevalence of diabetes is linked to several factors including sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diet. Nutritional intervention and increased physical activity could significantly contribute to bringing this under control. Food-derived bioactive peptides and protein hydrolysates have been associated with a number health benefits. Several peptides with antidiabetic potential have been identified that could decrease blood glucose level, improve insulin uptake and inhibit key enzymes involved in the development and progression of diabetes. Dietary proteins, from a wide range of food, are rich sources of antidiabetic peptides. Thus, there are a number of benefits in studying peptides obtained from food sources to develop nutraceuticals. A deeper understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of these peptides will assist in the development of new peptide-based therapeutics. Despite this, a comprehensive analysis of the antidiabetic properties of bioactive peptides derived from various food sources is still lacking. Here, we review the recent literature on food-derived bioactive peptides possessing antidiabetic activity. The focus is on the effectiveness of these peptides as evidenced by in vitro and in vivo studies. Finally, we discuss future prospects of peptide-based drugs for the treatment of diabetes.

Challenge of diabetes mellitus and researchers’ contributions to its control

The aim of this review study was to assess the past significant events on diabetes mellitus, transformations that took place over the years in the medical records of treatment, countries involved, and the researchers who brought about the revolutions. This study used the content analysis to report the existence of diabetes mellitus and the treatments provided by researchers to control it. The focus was mainly on three main types of diabetes (type 1, type 2, and type 3 diabetes). Ethical consideration has also helped to boost diabetic studies globally. The research has a history path from pharmaceuticals of organic-based drugs to metal-based drugs with their nanoparticles in addition to the impacts of nanomedicine, biosensors, and telemedicine. Ongoing and future studies in alternative medicine such as vanadium nanoparticles (metal nanoparticles) are promising.

Silver Nanoparticles as Carriers of Anticancer Drugs for Efficient Target Treatment of Cancer Cells

Since the last decade, nanotechnology has evolved rapidly and has been applied in several areas, such as medicine, pharmaceutical, microelectronics, aerospace, food industries, among others. The use of nanoparticles as drug carriers has been explored and presents several advantages, such as controlled and targeted release of loaded or coupled drugs, and the improvement of the drug's bioavailability, in addition to others. However, they also have some limitations, related to their in vivo toxicity, which affects all organs including the healthy ones, and overall improvement in the disease treatment, which can be unnoticeable or minimal. Silver nanoparticles have been increasingly investigated due to their peculiar physical, chemical, and optical properties, which allows them to cover several applications, namely in the transport of drugs to a specific target in the body. Given the limitations of conventional cancer chemotherapy, which include low bioavailability and the consequent use of high doses that cause adverse effects, strategies that overcome these difficulties are extremely important. This review embraces an overview and presentation about silver nanoparticles used as anticancer drug carrier systems and focuses a discussion on the state of the art of silver nanoparticles exploited for transport of anticancer drugs and their influence on antitumor effects.

Waste candle soot derived carbon nanoparticles: A competent alternative for the management of Helicoverpaarmigera

Helicoverpaarmigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is considered as one of the foremost pests of global agriculture. This pest is contemplated for substantial economic loss apart from the socio-economic and environmental costs associated with its control. Farmers adopt several strategies for the control of this pest but the cost associated with these strategies is always a big question. This is the first time when waste-candle soot (CS) derived carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) are explored for the putative toxicity to H. armigera. In the present study, the entomotoxic effects of CNPs on H. armigera were investigated and compared with that of commercially available multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Larvae fed on both the nanomaterials exhibited significant weight reduction and enhanced levels of antioxidant enzymes. Moths developed from the treated larvae exhibit very poor egg-laying capacity and poor egg hatchability. However, these entomotoxic effects were found more noticeable in larvae and moths fed on CNPs that eventually led to the complete cessation of the population build-up of H. armigera. These findings advocate the candidature of CNPs as a cost-effective alternative for efficient control of H. armigera in pest management programs.

Gold Nanoparticles Functionalized with Angiogenin for Wound Care Application

In this work, we aimed to develop a hybrid theranostic nano-formulation based on gold nanoparticles (AuNP)-having a known anti-angiogenic character-and the angiogenin (ANG), in order to tune the angiogenesis-related phases involved in the multifaceted process of the wound healing. To this purpose, spherical were surface "decorated" with three variants of the protein, namely, the recombinant (rANG), the wild-type, physiologically present in the human plasma (wtANG) and a new mutant with a cysteine substitution of the serine at the residue 28 (S28CANG). The hybrid biointerface between AuNP and ANG was scrutinized by a multi-technique approach based on dynamic light scattering, spectroscopic (UV-visible, circular dichroism) and microscopic (atomic force and laser scanning confocal) techniques. The analyses of optical features of plasmonic gold nanoparticles allowed for discrimination of different adsorption modes-i.e.; predominant physisorption and/or chemisorption-triggered by the ANG primary sequence. Biophysical experiments with supported lipid bilayers (SLB), an artificial model of cell membrane, were performed by means of quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring acoustic sensing technique. Cellular experiments on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), in the absence or presence of copper-another co-player of angiogenesis-were carried out to assay the nanotoxicity of the hybrid protein-gold nanoassemblies as well as their effect on cell migration and tubulogenesis. Results pointed to the promising potential of these nanoplatforms, especially the new hybrid Au-S28CANG obtained with the covalent grafting of the mutant on the gold surface, for the modulation of angiogenesis processes in wound care.

An Overview on Spray-Drying of Protein-Loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles for Dry Powder Inhalation

The delivery of therapeutic proteins remains a challenge, despite recent technological advances. While the delivery of proteins to the lungs is the gold standard for topical and systemic therapy through the lungs, the issue still exists. While pulmonary delivery is highly attractive due to its non-invasive nature, large surface area, possibility of topical and systemic administration, and rapid absorption circumventing the first-pass effect, the absorption of therapeutic proteins is still ineffective, largely due to the immunological and physicochemical barriers of the lungs. Most studies using spray-drying for the nanoencapsulation of drugs focus on the delivery of conventional drugs, which are less susceptible to bioactivity loss, compared to proteins. Herein, the development of polymeric nanoparticles by spray-drying for the delivery of therapeutic proteins is reviewed with an emphasis on its advantages and challenges, and the techniques to evaluate their in vitro and in vivo performance. The protein stability within the carrier and the features of the carrier are properly addressed.

Peptides with Dual Antimicrobial-Anticancer Activity: Strategies to Overcome Peptide Limitations and Rational Design of Anticancer Peptides

Peptides are naturally produced by all organisms and exhibit a wide range of physiological, immunomodulatory, and wound healing functions. Furthermore, they can provide with protection against microorganisms and tumor cells. Their multifaceted performance, high selectivity, and reduced toxicity have positioned them as effective therapeutic agents, representing a positive economic impact for pharmaceutical companies. Currently, efforts have been made to invest in the development of new peptides with antimicrobial and anticancer properties, but the poor stability of these molecules in physiological environments has triggered a bottleneck. Therefore, some tools, such as nanotechnology and in silico approaches can be applied as alternatives to try to overcome these obstacles. In silico studies provide a priori knowledge that can lead to the development of new anticancer peptides with enhanced biological activity and improved stability. This review focuses on the current status of research in peptides with dual antimicrobial-anticancer activity, including advances in computational biology using in silico analyses as a powerful tool for the study and rational design of these types of peptides.

Integrin-Targeting Dye-Doped PEG-Shell/Silica-Core Nanoparticles Mimicking the Proapoptotic Smac/DIABLO Protein

Cancer cells demonstrate elevated expression levels of the inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), contributing to tumor cell survival, disease progression, chemo-resistance, and poor prognosis. Smac/DIABLO is a mitochondrial protein that promotes apoptosis by neutralizing members of the IAP family. Herein, we describe the preparation and in vitro validation of a synthetic mimic of Smac/DIABLO, based on fluorescent polyethylene glycol (PEG)-coated silica-core nanoparticles (NPs) carrying a Smac/DIABLO-derived pro-apoptotic peptide and a tumor-homing integrin peptide ligand. At low μM concentration, the NPs showed significant toxicity towards A549, U373, and HeLa cancer cells and modest toxicity towards other integrin-expressing cells, correlated with integrin-mediated cell uptake and consequent highly increased levels of apoptotic activity, without perturbing cells not expressing the α5 integrin subunit.