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Baxter C, Crary I, Coler B, Marcell L, Huebner EM, Rutz S, Adams Waldorf KM. Addressing a broken drug pipeline for preterm birth: why early preterm birth is an orphan disease. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:647-655. [PMID: 37516401 PMCID: PMC10818026 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Preterm birth remains one of the most urgent unresolved medical problems in obstetrics, yet only 2 therapeutics for preventing preterm birth have ever been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, and neither remains on the market. The recent withdrawal of 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17-OHPC, Makena) marks a new but familiar era for obstetrics with no Food and Drug Administration-approved pharmaceuticals to address preterm birth. The lack of pharmaceuticals reflects a broad and ineffective pipeline hindered by extensive regulatory hurdles, soaring costs of performing drug research, and concerns regarding adverse effects among a particularly vulnerable population. The pharmaceutical industry has historically limited investments in research for diseases with similarly small markets, such as cystic fibrosis, given their rarity and diminished projected financial return. The Orphan Drug Act, however, incentivizes drug development for "orphan diseases", defined as affecting <200,000 people in the United States annually. Although the total number of preterm births in the United States exceeds this threshold annually, the early subset of preterm birth (<34 weeks' gestation) would qualify, which is predominantly caused by inflammation and infection. The scientific rationale for classifying preterm birth into early and late subsets is strong given that their etiologies differ, and therapeutics that may be efficacious for one subset may not work for the other. For example, antiinflammatory therapeutics would be expected to be highly effective for early but not late preterm birth. A robust therapeutic pipeline of antiinflammatory drugs already exists, which could be used to target spontaneous early preterm birth, in combination with antibiotics shown to sterilize the amniotic cavity. New applications for therapeutics targeting spontaneous early preterm birth could categorize as orphan disease drugs, which could revitalize the preterm birth therapeutic pipeline. Herein, we describe why drugs targeting early preterm birth should qualify for orphan status, which may increase pharmaceutical interest for this vitally important obstetrical condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly Baxter
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Isabelle Crary
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Brahm Coler
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA
| | - Lauren Marcell
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Sara Rutz
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Kristina M Adams Waldorf
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA.
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van Kammen CM, van Woudenberg SJ, Schiffelers R, Terstappen F, Lely AT. Nanomedicines: An approach to treat placental insufficiency and the current challenges. J Control Release 2023; 360:57-68. [PMID: 37330012 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction are common pregnancy complications that significantly impact perinatal health and offspring development later in life. The origin of these complex syndromes overlap in placental insufficiency. Progress in developing treatments for maternal, placental or fetal health is mainly limited by the risk of maternal and fetal toxicity. Nanomedicines are a promising approach to safely treat pregnancy complications since they can regulate drug interaction with the placenta to enhance efficacy of the treatment while minimizing exposure of the fetus. METHODS This narrative review discusses the current developments and challenges of nanomedicines during pregnancy with a focus on preclinical models of placenta insufficiency syndromes. Firstly, we outline the safety requirements and potential therapeutic maternal and placental targets. Secondly, we review the prenatal therapeutic effects of the nanomedicines that have been tested in experimental models of placental insufficiency syndromes. RESULTS The majority of liposomes and polymeric drug delivery system show promising results regarding the prevention of trans-placental passage nanomedicines in uncomplicated and complicated pregnancies. The others two studied classes, quantum dots and silicon nanoparticles, have been investigated to a limited extent in placental insufficiency syndromes. Characteristics of the nanoparticles such as charge, size, and timing of administration have been shown to influence the trans-placental passage. The few available preclinical therapeutic studies on placental insufficiency syndromes predominantly show beneficial effects of nanomedicines on both maternal and fetal health, but demonstrate contradicting results on placental health. Interpretation of results in this field is complicated by the fact that results are influenced by the choice of animal species and model, gestational age, placental maturity and integrity, and nanoparticle administration route. CONCLUSION Nanomedicines form a promising therapeutic approach during (complicated) pregnancies mainly by reducing fetal toxicity and regulating drug interaction with the placenta. Different nanomedicines have been proven to effectively prevent trans-placental passage of encapsulated agents. This can be expected to dramatically reduce risks for fetal adverse effects. Furthermore, a number of these nanomedicines positively impacted maternal and fetal health in animal models for placental insufficiency. Demonstrating that effective drug concentrations can be reached in the target tissue. While these first animal studies are encouraging, more research is needed to better understand the influence of the pathophysiology of this multi-factorial disease before implementation in clinical practice can be considered. Therefore, extensive evaluation of safety and efficacy of these targeted nanoparticles is needed within multiple animal, in vitro, and/or ex vivo models. This may be complemented by diagnostic tools to assess the disease status to identify the best time to initiate treatment. Together these investigations should contribute to building confidence in the safety of nanomedicines for treating mother and child, as safety has, understandably, the highest priority in this sensitive patient groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M van Kammen
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department CDL research, Nano medicine, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - S J van Woudenberg
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Department of Woman and Baby, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - R Schiffelers
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department CDL research, Nano medicine, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - F Terstappen
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Department of Woman and Baby, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - A T Lely
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Department of Woman and Baby, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Cem Kusdemir B, Kozgus Guldu O, Yurt Kilcar A, Ilker Medine E. Preparation and in vitro investigation of prostate-specific membrane antigen targeted Lycopene loaded niosomes on prostate cancer cells. Int J Pharm 2023; 640:123013. [PMID: 37149111 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
In this study, it's aimed to develop prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) targeted niosomes with a multifunctional theranostic approach. With this aim, PSMA-targeted niosomes were synthesized by a thin-film hydration method followed by bath sonication. Drug-loaded niosomes (Lyc-ICG-Nio) were coated with DSPE-PEG-COOH (Lyc-ICG-Nio-PEG) and subsequently anti-PSMA antibody conjugated to niosomes (Lyc-ICG-Nio-PSMA) with amide bond formation. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis showed that the hydrodynamic diameter of Lyc-ICG-Nio-PSMA was approximately 285 nm and it was found with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) that the niosome formulation was spherical. Encapsulation efficiency was 45% and %65 upon dual encapsulation of ICG and lycopene. The results of fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) demonstrated that PEG coating and antibody coupling were successfully done. In vitro studies showed that cell viability decreased when lycopene was entrapped into niosomes applied while the total apoptotic cell population rose slightly. When Lyc-ICG-Nio-PSMA was applied to cells, decreased cell viability and enhanced apoptotic effect were seen compared to those for Lyc-ICG-Nio. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that targeted niosomes displayed improved cellular association and decreased cell viability on PSMA+ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bekir Cem Kusdemir
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Ege University, Bornova-Izmir, 35100 Turkey
| | - Ozge Kozgus Guldu
- Department of Nuclear Applications, Institute of Nuclear Sciences, Ege University, Bornova-Izmir, 35100 Turkey.
| | - Ayfer Yurt Kilcar
- Department of Nuclear Applications, Institute of Nuclear Sciences, Ege University, Bornova-Izmir, 35100 Turkey.
| | - Emin Ilker Medine
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Ege University, Bornova-Izmir, 35100 Turkey; Department of Nuclear Applications, Institute of Nuclear Sciences, Ege University, Bornova-Izmir, 35100 Turkey
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4
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Taylor J, Sharp A, Rannard SP, Arrowsmith S, McDonald TO. Nanomedicine strategies to improve therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of preterm birth and future directions. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:1870-1889. [PMID: 36998665 PMCID: PMC10044983 DOI: 10.1039/d2na00834c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates 15 million babies worldwide are born preterm each year, with 1 million infant mortalities and long-term morbidity in survivors. Whilst the past 40 years have provided some understanding in the causes of preterm birth, along with development of a range of therapeutic options, notably prophylactic use of progesterone or uterine contraction suppressants (tocolytics), the number of preterm births continues to rise. Existing therapeutics used to control uterine contractions are restricted in their clinical use due to pharmacological drawbacks such as poor potency, transfer of drugs to the fetus across the placenta and maternal side effects from activity in other maternal systems. This review focuses on addressing the urgent need for the development of alternative therapeutic systems with improved efficacy and safety for the treatment of preterm birth. We discuss the application of nanomedicine as a viable opportunity to engineer pre-existing tocolytic agents and progestogens into nanoformulations, to improve their efficacy and address current drawbacks to their use. We review different nanomedicines including liposomes, lipid-based carriers, polymers and nanosuspensions highlighting where possible, where these technologies have already been exploited e.g. liposomes, and their significance in improving the properties of pre-existing therapeutic agents within the field of obstetrics. We also highlight where active pharmaceutical agents (APIs) with tocolytic properties have been used for other clinical indications and how these could inform the design of future therapeutics or be repurposed to diversify their application such as for use in preterm birth. Finally we outline and discuss the future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Taylor
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool Crown Street Liverpool L69 7ZD UK
| | - Andrew Sharp
- Harris-Wellbeing Preterm Birth Research Centre, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Liverpool Women's Hospital, University of Liverpool Crown Street Liverpool L8 7SS UK
| | - Steve P Rannard
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool Crown Street Liverpool L69 7ZD UK
- Centre of Excellence in Long-acting Therapeutics (CELT), University of Liverpool Liverpool L7 3NY UK
| | - Sarah Arrowsmith
- Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Chester Street Manchester M1 5GD UK
| | - Tom O McDonald
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool Crown Street Liverpool L69 7ZD UK
- Department of Materials, Henry Royce Institute, The University of Manchester Manchester M13 9PL UK
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Bertozzi S, Corradetti B, Seriau L, Diaz Ñañez JA, Cedolini C, Fruscalzo A, Cesselli D, Cagnacci A, Londero AP. Nanotechnologies in Obstetrics and Cancer during Pregnancy: A Narrative Review. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12081324. [PMID: 36013273 PMCID: PMC9410527 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12081324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanotechnology, the art of engineering structures on a molecular level, offers the opportunity to implement new strategies for the diagnosis and management of pregnancy-related disorders. This review aims to summarize the current state of nanotechnology in obstetrics and cancer in pregnancy, focusing on existing and potential applications, and provides insights on safety and future directions. A systematic and comprehensive literature assessment was performed, querying the following databases: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Endbase. The databases were searched from their inception to 22 March 2022. Five independent reviewers screened the items and extracted those which were more pertinent within the scope of this review. Although nanotechnology has been on the bench for many years, most of the studies in obstetrics are preclinical. Ongoing research spans from the development of diagnostic tools, including optimized strategies to selectively confine contrast agents in the maternal bloodstream and approaches to improve diagnostics tests to be used in obstetrics, to the synthesis of innovative delivery nanosystems for therapeutic interventions. Using nanotechnology to achieve spatial and temporal control over the delivery of therapeutic agents (e.g., commonly used drugs, more recently defined formulations, or gene therapy-based approaches) offers significant advantages, including the possibility to target specific cells/tissues of interest (e.g., the maternal bloodstream, uterus wall, or fetal compartment). This characteristic of nanotechnology-driven therapy reduces side effects and the amount of therapeutic agent used. However, nanotoxicology appears to be a significant obstacle to adopting these technologies in clinical therapeutic praxis. Further research is needed in order to improve these techniques, as they have tremendous potential to improve the accuracy of the tests applied in clinical praxis. This review showed the increasing interest in nanotechnology applications in obstetrics disorders and pregnancy-related pathologies to improve the diagnostic algorithms, monitor pregnancy-related diseases, and implement new treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Bertozzi
- Breast Unit, Department of Surgery, DAME, University Hospital of “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Ennergi Research (Non-Profit Organisation), 33050 Lestizza, Italy
| | - Bruna Corradetti
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Luca Seriau
- Breast Unit, Department of Surgery, DAME, University Hospital of “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - José Andrés Diaz Ñañez
- Breast Unit, Department of Surgery, DAME, University Hospital of “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Ennergi Research (Non-Profit Organisation), 33050 Lestizza, Italy
| | - Carla Cedolini
- Breast Unit, Department of Surgery, DAME, University Hospital of “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Ennergi Research (Non-Profit Organisation), 33050 Lestizza, Italy
| | - Arrigo Fruscalzo
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Fribourg, 1752 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Cesselli
- Institute of Pathology, DAME, University of Udine, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Angelo Cagnacci
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Infant Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Ambrogio P. Londero
- Ennergi Research (Non-Profit Organisation), 33050 Lestizza, Italy
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Infant Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: or
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Liposomal formulation of new arsenic schiff base complex as drug delivery agent in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia and quantum chemical and docking calculations. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2022.103600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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7
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Xu Y, Fourniols T, Labrak Y, Préat V, Beloqui A, des Rieux A. Surface Modification of Lipid-Based Nanoparticles. ACS NANO 2022; 16:7168-7196. [PMID: 35446546 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c02347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing interest in the development of lipid-based nanocarriers for multiple purposes, including the recent increase of these nanocarriers as vaccine components during the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of studies that involve the surface modification of nanocarriers to improve their performance (increase the delivery of a therapeutic to its target site with less off-site accumulation) is enormous. The present review aims to provide an overview of various methods associated with lipid nanoparticle grafting, including techniques used to separate grafted nanoparticles from unbound ligands or to characterize grafted nanoparticles. We also provide a critical perspective on the usefulness and true impact of these modifications on overcoming different biological barriers, with our prediction on what to expect in the near future in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Xu
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Avenue Mounier, 73 B1.73.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thibaut Fourniols
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Avenue Mounier, 73 B1.73.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yasmine Labrak
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Avenue Mounier, 73 B1.73.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Bioanalysis and Pharmacology of Bioactive Lipids, UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Avenue Mounier, 72 B1.72.01, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Véronique Préat
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Avenue Mounier, 73 B1.73.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ana Beloqui
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Avenue Mounier, 73 B1.73.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anne des Rieux
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Avenue Mounier, 73 B1.73.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
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Patel SK, Valicherla GR, Micklo AC, Rohan LC. Drug delivery strategies for management of women's health issues in the upper genital tract. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 177:113955. [PMID: 34481034 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The female upper genital tract (UGT) hosts important reproductive organs including the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Several pathologies affect these organ systems such as infections, reproductive issues, structural abnormalities, cancer, and inflammatory diseases that could have significant impact on women's overall health. Effective disease management is constrained by the multifaceted nature of the UGT, complex anatomy and a dynamic physiological environment. Development of drug delivery strategies that can overcome mucosal and safety barriers are needed for effective disease management. This review introduces the anatomy, physiology, and mucosal properties of the UGT and describes drug delivery barriers, advances in drug delivery technologies, and opportunities available for new technologies that target the UGT.
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9
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Oxytocin and Bone: Review and Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168551. [PMID: 34445256 PMCID: PMC8395200 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent data demonstrate the anabolic effect of oxytocin on bone. Bone cells express oxytocin receptors. Oxytocin promotes osteoblasts differentiation and function, leading to an increased bone formation with no effect on bone resorption and an improvement of bone microarchitecture. Oxytocin is synthetized by osteoblasts, and this synthesis is stimulated by estrogen. Animal studies demonstrate a direct action of oxytocin on bone, as the systemic administration of oxytocin prevents and reverses the bone loss induced by estrogen deficiency. Although oxytocin is involved in bone formation in both sexes during development, oxytocin treatment has no effect on male osteoporosis, underlining the importance of estrogen that amplifies its local autocrine and paracrine secretion. There are few human data showing a decrease in the oxytocin serum level in anorexia nervosa independently of estrogen and in amenorrheic women associated with impaired bone microarchitecture; in post-menopausal women a higher oxytocin serum level is associated with higher bone density, but not in osteoporotic men. Oxytocin displays many effects that may be beneficial in the management of osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, cognitive disorders, breast cancer, diabetes and body fat gain, all age-related diseases affecting elderly women, opening exciting therapeutic perspectives, although the issue is to find a single route, dosage and schedule able to reach all these targets.
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Coler BS, Shynlova O, Boros-Rausch A, Lye S, McCartney S, Leimert KB, Xu W, Chemtob S, Olson D, Li M, Huebner E, Curtin A, Kachikis A, Savitsky L, Paul JW, Smith R, Adams Waldorf KM. Landscape of Preterm Birth Therapeutics and a Path Forward. J Clin Med 2021; 10:2912. [PMID: 34209869 PMCID: PMC8268657 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10132912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) remains the leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality. Despite 50 years of research, therapeutic options are limited and many lack clear efficacy. Tocolytic agents are drugs that briefly delay PTB, typically to allow antenatal corticosteroid administration for accelerating fetal lung maturity or to transfer patients to high-level care facilities. Globally, there is an unmet need for better tocolytic agents, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Although most tocolytics, such as betamimetics and indomethacin, suppress downstream mediators of the parturition pathway, newer therapeutics are being designed to selectively target inflammatory checkpoints with the goal of providing broader and more effective tocolysis. However, the relatively small market for new PTB therapeutics and formidable regulatory hurdles have led to minimal pharmaceutical interest and a stagnant drug pipeline. In this review, we present the current landscape of PTB therapeutics, assessing the history of drug development, mechanisms of action, adverse effects, and the updated literature on drug efficacy. We also review the regulatory hurdles and other obstacles impairing novel tocolytic development. Ultimately, we present possible steps to expedite drug development and meet the growing need for effective preterm birth therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brahm Seymour Coler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
| | - Oksana Shynlova
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (O.S.); (A.B.-R.); (S.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E2, Canada
| | - Adam Boros-Rausch
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (O.S.); (A.B.-R.); (S.L.)
| | - Stephen Lye
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (O.S.); (A.B.-R.); (S.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E2, Canada
| | - Stephen McCartney
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Kelycia B. Leimert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada; (K.B.L.); (W.X.); (D.O.)
| | - Wendy Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada; (K.B.L.); (W.X.); (D.O.)
| | - Sylvain Chemtob
- Departments of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada;
| | - David Olson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada; (K.B.L.); (W.X.); (D.O.)
- Departments of Pediatrics and Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada
| | - Miranda Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
- Department of Biological Sciencies, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Emily Huebner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Anna Curtin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Alisa Kachikis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Leah Savitsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Jonathan W. Paul
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.W.P.); (R.S.)
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.W.P.); (R.S.)
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Kristina M. Adams Waldorf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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Shojaei S, Ali MS, Suresh M, Upreti T, Mogourian V, Helewa M, Labouta HI. Dynamic placenta-on-a-chip model for fetal risk assessment of nanoparticles intended to treat pregnancy-associated diseases. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166131. [PMID: 33766738 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pregnant women often have to take medication either for pregnancy-related diseases or for previously existing medical conditions. Current maternal medications pose fetal risks due to off target accumulation in the fetus. Nanoparticles, engineered particles in the nanometer scale, have been used for targeted drug delivery to the site of action without off-target effects. This has opened new avenues for treatment of pregnancy-associated diseases while minimizing risks on the fetus. It is therefore instrumental to study the potential transfer of nanoparticles from the mother to the fetus. Due to limitations of in vivo and ex vivo models, an in vitro model mimicking the in vivo situation is essential. Placenta-on-a-chip provides a microphysiological recapitulation of the human placenta. Here, we reviewed the fetal risks associated with current therapeutic approaches during pregnancy, analyzed the advantages and limitations of current models used for nanoparticle assessment, and highlighted the current need for using dynamic placenta-on-a-chip models for assessing the safety of novel nanoparticle-based therapies during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahla Shojaei
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Moustafa S Ali
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Madhumita Suresh
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Tushar Upreti
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Victoria Mogourian
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Michael Helewa
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Hagar I Labouta
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Biomedical Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
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12
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Shaban M, Hasanzadeh M. Biomedical applications of dendritic fibrous nanosilica (DFNS): recent progress and challenges. RSC Adv 2020; 10:37116-37133. [PMID: 35521236 PMCID: PMC9057131 DOI: 10.1039/d0ra04388e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic fibrous nanosilica (DFNS), with multi-component and hierarchically complex structures, has recently been receiving significant attention in various fields of nano-biomedicine. DFNS is an emerging class of mesoporous nanoparticles that has attracted great interest due to unique structures such as open three-dimensional dendritic superstructures with large pore channels and highly accessible internal surface areas. This overview aims to study the application of DFNS towards biomedical investigations. This review is divided into four main sections. Sections 1–3 are related to the synthesis and characterization of DFNS. The biomedical potential of DFNS, such as cell therapy, gene therapy, immune therapy, drug delivery, imaging, photothermal therapy, bioanalysis, biocatalysis, and tissue engineering, is discussed based on advantages and limitations. Finally, the perspectives and challenges in terms of controlled synthesis and potential nano-biomedical applications towards future studies are discussed. Dendritic fibrous nanosilica (DFNS) , with multi-component and hierarchically complex structures, has recently been receiving significant attention in various fields of nano-biomedicine.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Shaban
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran .,Food and Drug Safety Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasanzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
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13
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Pereira KV, Giacomeli R, Gomes de Gomes M, Haas SE. The challenge of using nanotherapy during pregnancy: Technological aspects and biomedical implications. Placenta 2020; 100:75-80. [PMID: 32862059 PMCID: PMC7431318 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
During the period of pregnancy, several processes and physiological adaptations occur in the body and metabolism of pregnant woman. These physiological adaptations in pregnant woman end up leading to a suppression in immune system favoring obstetric complications to the mother, fetus and placental tissue. An effective pharmacological therapy for these complications is still a challenge, since some drugs during pregnancy can have deleterious and teratogenic effects. An emerging alternative to pharmacological therapy during pregnancy is drugs encapsulated in nanoparticles (NP), recent area called nano-obstetrics. NP have the advantage of drug targeting and reduction of side effects. Then, maternal, placental or fetal uptake can be expected, depending on the characteristics of NP. Inorganic NP, crossing placental barrier effectively, but have several nanotoxicological effects. While organic NP appear to have a better targeting capacity and have few toxicological effects, but the studies are still scarce. Thus, in this review, were examined questions related to use and impact of physicochemical aspects of inorganic and organic NP during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelle Velasques Pereira
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, UFSM, Av. Roraima n.1000, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Renata Giacomeli
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pampa, UNIPAMPA, Campus Uruguaiana, BR 472, Km 7, 97500-970, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Gomes de Gomes
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pampa, UNIPAMPA, Campus Uruguaiana, BR 472, Km 7, 97500-970, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Sandra Elisa Haas
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pampa, UNIPAMPA, Campus Uruguaiana, BR 472, Km 7, 97500-970, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, UFSM, Av. Roraima n.1000, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
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14
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McKay EC, Counts SE. Oxytocin Receptor Signaling in Vascular Function and Stroke. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:574499. [PMID: 33071746 PMCID: PMC7544744 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.574499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxytocin receptor (OXTR) is a G protein-coupled receptor with a diverse repertoire of intracellular signaling pathways, which are activated in response to binding oxytocin (OXT) and a similar nonapeptide, vasopressin. This review summarizes the cell and molecular biology of the OXTR and its downstream signaling cascades, particularly focusing on the vasoactive functions of OXTR signaling in humans and animal models, as well as the clinical applications of OXTR targeting cerebrovascular accidents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin C McKay
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Scott E Counts
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States.,Department of Family Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Hauenstein Neurosciences Center, Mercy Health Saint Mary's Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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15
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Panaro MA, Benameur T, Porro C. Hypothalamic Neuropeptide Brain Protection: Focus on Oxytocin. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9051534. [PMID: 32438751 PMCID: PMC7290962 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) is hypothalamic neuropeptide synthetized in the brain by magnocellular and parvo cellular neurons of the paraventricular (PVN), supraoptic (SON) and accessory nuclei (AN) of the hypothalamus. OXT acts in the central and peripheral nervous systems via G-protein-coupled receptors. The classical physiological functions of OXT are uterine contractions, the milk ejection reflex during lactation, penile erection and sexual arousal, but recent studies have demonstrated that OXT may have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties and regulate immune and anti-inflammatory responses. In the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases, microglia are present in an active form and release high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines that are implicated in the process of neural injury. A promising treatment for neurodegenerative diseases involves new therapeutic approaches targeting activated microglia. Recent studies have reported that OXT exerts neuroprotective effects through the inhibition of production of pro-inflammatory mediators, and in the development of correct neural circuitry. The focus of this review is to attribute a new important role of OXT in neuroprotection through the microglia–OXT interaction of immature and adult brains. In addition, we analyzed the strategies that could enhance the delivery of OXT in the brain and amplify its positive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Antonietta Panaro
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Tarek Benameur
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, 31982 Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Chiara Porro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy
- Correspondence:
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16
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Siricilla S, Iwueke CC, Herington JL. Drug discovery strategies for the identification of novel regulators of uterine contractility. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 13:71-86. [PMID: 32864532 DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2019.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth and postpartum hemorrhage are the leading causes of neonatal and maternal morbidities worldwide, respectively. Current clinically utilized tocolytics and uterotonics to manage these obstetric conditions are limited due to their off-target effects and/or lack of efficacy. Thus, an ideal tocolytic or uterotonic would be uterine-selective with rapid onset and long-duration efficacy. Here, we discuss strategies for the discovery of new therapeutic targets and compounds that regulate uterine contractility with the aforementioned properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shajila Siricilla
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Chisom C Iwueke
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jennifer L Herington
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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17
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Surface-Functionalized Nanoparticles as Efficient Tools in Targeted Therapy of Pregnancy Complications. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20153642. [PMID: 31349643 PMCID: PMC6695948 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Minimizing exposure of the fetus to medication and reducing adverse off-target effects in the mother are the primary challenges in developing novel drugs to treat pregnancy complications. Nanomedicine has introduced opportunities for the development of novel platforms enabling targeted delivery of drugs in pregnancy. This review sets out to discuss the advances and potential of surface-functionalized nanoparticles in the targeted therapy of pregnancy complications. We first describe the human placental anatomy, which is fundamental for developing placenta-targeted therapy, and then we review current knowledge of nanoparticle transplacental transport mechanisms. Meanwhile, recent surface-functionalized nanoparticles for targeting the uterus and placenta are examined. Indeed, surface-functionalized nanoparticles could help prevent transplacental passage and promote placental-specific drug delivery, thereby enhancing efficacy and improving safety. We have achieved promising results in targeting the placenta via placental chondroitin sulfate A (plCSA), which is exclusively expressed in the placenta, using plCSA binding peptide (plCSA-BP)-decorated nanoparticles. Others have also focused on using placenta- and uterus-enriched molecules as targets to deliver therapeutics via surface-functionalized nanoparticles. Additionally, we propose that placenta-specific exosomes and surface-modified exosomes might be potential tools in the targeted therapy of pregnancy complications. Altogether, surface-functionalized nanoparticles have great potential value as clinical tools in the targeted therapy of pregnancy complications.
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18
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Limongi T, Susa F, Cauda V. Nanoparticles for hematologic diseases detection and treatment. HEMATOLOGY & MEDICAL ONCOLOGY 2019; 4:1000183. [PMID: 33860108 PMCID: PMC7610588 DOI: 10.15761/hmo.1000183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nanotechnology, as an interdisciplinary science, combines engineering, physics, material sciences, and chemistry with the biomedicine knowhow, trying the management of a wide range of diseases. Nanoparticle-based devices holding tumor imaging, targeting and therapy capabilities are formerly under study. Since conventional hematological therapies are sometimes defined by reduced selectivity, low therapeutic efficacy and many side effects, in this review we discuss the potential advantages of the NPs' use in alternative/combined strategies. In the introduction the basic notion of nanomedicine and nanoparticles' classification are described, while in the main text nanodiagnostics, nanotherapeutics and theranostics solutions coming out from the use of a wide-ranging NPs availability are listed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Limongi
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
| | - Francesca Susa
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
| | - Valentina Cauda
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
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