Magnetic nanoparticles: preparation methods, applications in cancer diagnosis and cancer therapy

Histidine modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles improving the ethanol yield and tolerance of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the primary microorganism involved in ethanol production, is hindered by the accumulation of ethanol, leading to reduced ethanol production. In this study, we employed histidine-modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles (His-Fe3O4) for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, as a method to enhance ethanol yield during the S. cerevisiae fermentation process. The results demonstrated that exposing S. cerevisiae cells to Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) led to increased cell proliferation and glucose consumption. Moreover, the introduction of His-Fe3O4 significantly boosted ethanol content by 17.3% (p < 0.05) during fermentation. Subsequent findings indicated that the increase in ethanol content was associated with enhanced ethanol tolerance and improved electron transport efficiency. This study provided evidence for the positive effects of His-Fe3O4 on S. cerevisiae cells and proposed a straightforward approach to enhance ethanol production in S. cerevisiae fermentation. The mediation of improved ethanol tolerance offers significant potential in the fermentation and bioenergy sectors.

Dual-mode colorimetric and photothermal aptasensor for detection of kanamycin using flocculent platinum nanoparticles

Chitosan (CS)-stabilized platinum nanoparticles (CS/PtNPs) were employed to develop a novel aptamer-based dual-mode colorimetric and photothermal biosensor for selective detection of kanamycin (KAN). As a peroxidase-like catalyst, the CS/PtNPs showed outstanding catalytic activity for the oxidation of 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). As a stabilizing agent, CS excelled at fixing the KAN binding aptamer on the surface of the CS/PtNPs, amplifying their catalytic activity and enhancing colloidal dispersion and stability. The oxidized TMB (TMBox) functioned as a signal for the colorimetric, photothermal aptasensor because of its observable absorbance of light in the visible and near-infrared (NIR) regions. When light from a NIR laser was absorbed by the TMBox in the reaction solution, heat was generated in inverse proportion to the KAN concentration. The developed colorimetric and photothermal modes of the aptasensor showed a linear detection range of 0.1-50 and 0.5-50 μM, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.04 and 0.41 μM, respectively. Moreover, the aptasensor successfully determined KAN concentrations in spiked milk samples, verifying the reliability and reproducibility in practical applications. The dual-mode aptasensor based on CS/PtNPs for KAN detection, utilizing both color change and heat generation signals through a single probe (TMBox), demonstrates rapid response, simplicity in operation, cost-effectiveness, and high sensitivity. In addition, unlike typical immunoassays, this aptamer-based peroxidase-like nanozyme activation and inhibition strategy required no washing process, which was very effective in terms of reducing the time required for an assay and sustaining a high sensitivity.

Nanoplatforms: The future of oral cancer treatment

Background and Aims

Cytotoxicity is a key disadvantage of using chemotherapeutic drugs to treat cancer. This can be overcome by encapsulating chemotherapeutic drugs in suitable carriers for targeted delivery, allowing them to be released only at the cancerous sites. Herein, we aim to review the recent scientific developments in the utilization of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems for treating oral malignancies that can lead to further improvements in clinical practice.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and other notable databases to identify recent peer-reviewed clinical trials, reviews, and research articles related to nanoplatforms and their applications in oral cancer treatment.

Results

Nanoplatforms offer a revolutionary strategy to overcome the challenges associated with conventional oral cancer treatments, such as poor drug solubility, non-specific targeting, and systemic toxicity. These nanoscale drug delivery systems encompass various formulations, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, and hydrogels, which facilitate controlled release and targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to oral cancer sites. By exploiting the enhanced permeability and retention effect, Nanoplatforms accumulate preferentially in the tumor microenvironment, increasing drug concentration and minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Additionally, nanoplatforms can be engineered to carry multiple drugs or a combination of drugs and diagnostic agents, enabling personalized and precise treatment approaches.

Conclusion

The utilization of nanoplatforms in oral cancer treatment holds significant promise in revolutionizing therapeutic strategies. Despite the promising results in preclinical studies, further research is required to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and long-term effects of nanoformulations in clinical settings. If successfully translated into clinical practice, nanoplatform-based therapies have the potential to improve patient outcomes, reduce side effects, and pave the way for more personalized and effective oral cancer treatments.

Review of the Role of Nanotechnology in Overcoming the Challenges Faced in Oral Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Throughout the world, oral cancer is a common and aggressive malignancy with a high risk of morbidity, mortality, and recurrence. The importance of early detection in cancer prevention and disease treatment cannot be overstated. Conventional therapeutic strategies have minor difficulties but considerable side effects and unfavourable consequences in clinical applications. Hence, there is a requirement for effective ways for early detection and treatment of oral cancer. At present, numerous forms of nanoparticles have piqued researchers' interest as a potentially useful tool for diagnostic probes and medicinal devices. Because of their inherent physicochemical properties and customizable surface modification, they are able to circumvent some of restrictions and accomplish the intended diagnostic and therapeutic impact. Nanotechnology is a unique field that has revolutionised the industry and is paving the way for new treatments for oral cancer. It can help with a better diagnosis with less harmful substances and is setting current guidelines for treatment. The use of nanotechnology in cancer diagnosis, therapy, and care improves clinical practise dramatically. The different types of nanoparticles that have been developed for the diagnosis and therapy of oral cancers will be covered in this study. The difficulties and potential uses of nanoparticles in the treatment and diagnosis of oral cancer are then highlighted. In order to emphasise existing difficulties and potential remedies for oral cancer, a prospective view of the future is also provided.

Apta-sensor for selective determination of dopamine using chitosan-stabilized Prussian blue nanoparticles

Chitosan-stabilized Prussian blue nanoparticles (CS/PBNPs) were fabricated by a simple synthetic method and used to develop a novel aptamer-based colorimetric assay for selective determination of dopamine (DA). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images exhibited a uniform shape of the CS/PBNPs with an average diameter of 37.0 ± 3.2 nm. The CS/PBNPs exhibited strong peroxidase-like activity that catalyzed the reaction between 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Chitosan was used for stabilization of the PBNPs and fixation of the DA aptamer on the surface of the CS/PBNPs. The catalytic mechanism of the CS/PBNPs was confirmed to involve first the decomposition of H₂O₂ into a hydroxyl radical (˙OH) and then oxidation of TMB by the ˙OH to produce a blue color. An aptamer-based colorimetric assay was made with the CS/PBNPs to detect DA at concentrations of 0.25-100 μM with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.16 μM. For comparison, a gold nanoparticle (AuNP)-based apta-sensor detected DA in concentrations of 1-25 μM with a LOD of 0.55 μM. The recovery results of DA concentrations (0.25, 0.5, and 1 μM) from spiked human serum were 92.6%, 102.1%, and 103.9%, verifying the reliability and reproducibility of the CS/PBNP-based apta-sensor for determination of DA level in clinical applications. Moreover, compared to traditional immunoassay, this aptamer-based nanozyme activation/inhibition system needs no washing step, which is very useful to shorten the assay time and maintain high sensitivity.

Preparation and Characterization of Nano-Fe3O4 and Its Application for C18-Functionalized Magnetic Nanomaterials Used as Chromatographic Packing Materials

A new type of magnetic nanomaterial with Fe₃O₄ as the core and organic polymer as the shell was synthesized by seed emulsion polymerization. This material not only overcomes the problem of insufficient mechanical strength of the organic polymer, it also solves the problem that Fe₃O₄ is prone to oxidation and agglomeration. In order to make the particle size of Fe₃O₄ meet the requirement of the seed, the solvothermal method was used to prepare Fe₃O₄. The effects of the reaction time, amount of solvent, pH value, and polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the particle size of Fe₃O₄ were investigated. In addition, in order to accelerate the reaction rate, the feasibility of preparing Fe₃O₄ by microwave was studied. The results showed that under the optimum conditions, the particle size of Fe₃O₄ could reach 400 nm and had good magnetic properties. After three stages of oleic acid coating, seed emulsion polymerization, and C18 modification, the obtained C18-functionalized magnetic nanomaterials were used for the preparation of the chromatographic column. Under optimal conditions, stepwise elution significantly shortened the elution time of sulfamethyldiazine, sulfamethazine, sulfamethoxypyridazine, and sulfamethoxazole while still achieving a baseline separation.

Hybrid Magnetic Lipid-Based Nanoparticles for Cancer Therapy

Cancer is one of the major public health problems worldwide. Despite the advances in cancer therapy, it remains a challenge due to the low specificity of treatment and the development of multidrug resistance mechanisms. To overcome these drawbacks, several drug delivery nanosystems have been investigated, among them, magnetic nanoparticles (MNP), especially superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION), which have been applied for treating cancer. MNPs have the ability to be guided to the tumor microenvironment through an external applied magnetic field. Furthermore, in the presence of an alternating magnetic field (AMF) this nanocarrier can transform electromagnetic energy in heat (above 42 °C) through Néel and Brown relaxation, which makes it applicable for hyperthermia treatment. However, the low chemical and physical stability of MNPs makes their coating necessary. Thus, lipid-based nanoparticles, especially liposomes, have been used to encapsulate MNPs to improve their stability and enable their use as a cancer treatment. This review addresses the main features that make MNPs applicable for treating cancer and the most recent research in the nanomedicine field using hybrid magnetic lipid-based nanoparticles for this purpose.

Synthesis of nano-β-CD@Fe3O4 magnetic material and its application in ultrasonic treatment of oily sludge

The extraction process of Tarim oil field in Xinjiang is accompanied by a large amount of oily sludge generation, which seriously restricts the progress of oil and gas development and causes serious pollution to the environment due to its large production, complex composition, and difficult treatment. Nanomaterials combined with ultrasound have been demonstrated to be a promising method for the disposal of hazardous oily sludge. In this paper, a magnetic material Nano-β-CD@Fe₃O₄ was prepared by hydrothermal method and surface modification method. Nano-β-CD@Fe₃O₄ can be intelligently enriched at the oil-water interface and oil-solid interface, and it can be stably dispersed to form nanofluid under the action of ultrasound. Nano-β-CD@Fe₃O₄ can cause changes in oil composition when it is exposed to ultrasound, resulting in the decrease of viscosity and increase of fluidity. The experimental results of treating oily sludge in Xinjiang Tarim showed that the best treatment effect was achieved when the concentration of Nano-β-CD@Fe₃O₄ was 0.5 %, the ultrasonic frequency was 60 Hz and the temperature was 60℃. This solution can reach 90.17 % oil removal efficiency within 45 min, and the secondary oil removal efficiency of Nano-β-CD@Fe₃O₄ recovered by magnetic separation could still reach 85.65 %. This efficient oily sludge treatment method proposed in our study provides valuable information for the development of oily sludge treatment technology.

A review on recent advances in the applications of composite Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles in the food industry

Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have attracted tremendous attention due to their superparamagnetic properties, large specific surface area, high biocompatibility, non-toxicity, large-scale production, and recyclability. More importantly, numerous hydroxyl groups (-OH) on the surface of Fe3O4 MNPs can provide coupling sites for various modifiers, forming versatile nanocomposites for applications in the energy, biomedicine, and environmental fields. With the development of science and technology, the potential of nanotechnology in the food industry has also gradually become prominent. However, the application of composite Fe3O4 MNPs in the food industry has not been systematically summarized. Herein, this article reviews composite Fe3O4 MNPs, including their properties, modifications, and physical functions, as well as their applications in the entire food industry from production to processing, storage, and detection. This review lays a solid foundation for promoting food innovation and improving food quality and safety.

Vascular Repair by Grafting Based on Magnetic Nanoparticles

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have attracted much attention in the past few decades because of their unique magnetic responsiveness. Especially in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, they are mostly involved in non-invasive ways and have achieved good results. The magnetic responsiveness of MNPs is strictly controlled by the size, crystallinity, uniformity, and surface properties of the synthesized particles. In this review, we summarized the classification of MNPs and their application in vascular repair. MNPs mainly use their unique magnetic properties to participate in vascular repair, including magnetic stimulation, magnetic drive, magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic hyperthermia, magnetic assembly scaffolds, and magnetic targeted drug delivery, which can significantly affect scaffold performance, cell behavior, factor secretion, drug release, etc. Although there are still challenges in the large-scale clinical application of MNPs, its good non-invasive way to participate in vascular repair and the establishment of a continuous detection process is still the future development direction.

Improving Antibacterial Efficiency of Curcumin in Magnetic Polymeric Nanocomposites

In recent years, resistance to chemical antibiotics, as well as their side effects, has caused a necessity to utilize natural substances and herbal components with antibacterial effects. Curcumin, the major substance of Curcuma longa’s rhizome, was used as an antibacterial agent since ancient times. This work aimed to formulate a novel nanocomposite for the delivery of curcumin to overcome orthodox drugs resistance against bacteria and improve its efficacy. To fabricate targeting nanocomposites, first, Fe3O4 nanoparticles were synthesized followed by coating the obtained nanoparticles using sodium alginate containing curcumin. A 2 by 3 factorial design was tailored to predict the optimum formulation of nanocomposites. Characterization of nanocomposites including particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and drug loading was performed. The optimum formulation was analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and in vitro release study at different pHs. Finally, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of samples against seven common bacteria were determined. Results showed that the optimized formulation contained 400 nm particles with the PDI and zeta potentials of 0.4 and − 58 mV, respectively. The optimized formulation with 70% entrapment efficiency reduced the MIC value 2 to 4 times in comparison with pure curcumin. Results also showed that polymer and drug concentrations can significantly affect entrapment efficiency. In conclusion, the current investigation demonstrated that this magnetic nanocomposite can be applied for the delivery of curcumin.

Graphical abstract

Nanomedicine from amphiphilizedprodrugs: Concept and clinical translation

Nanomedicines generally consisting of carrier materials with small fractions of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) have long been used to improve the pharmacokinetics and biodistributions, augment the therapeutic efficacies and mitigate the side effects. Amphiphilizing hydrophobic/hydrophilic drugs to prodrugs capable of self-assembly into well-defined nanostructures has emerged as a facile approach to fabricating nanomedicines because this amphiphilized prodrug (APD) strategy presents many advantages, including minimized use of inert carrier materials, well-characterized prodrug structures, fixed and high drug loading contents, 100% loading efficiency, and burst-free but controlled drug release. This review comprehensively summarizes recent advances in APDs and their nanomedicines, from the rationale and the stimuli-responsive linker chemistry for on-demand drug release to their progress to the clinics, clinical performance of APDs, as well as the challenges and perspective on future development.

Aspects of high-performance and bio-acceptable magnetic nanoparticles for biomedical application

This review covers extensively the synthesis & surface modification, characterization, and application of magnetic nanoparticles. For biomedical applications, consideration should be given to factors such as design strategies, the synthesis process, coating, and surface passivation. The synthesis method regulates post-synthetic change and specific applications in vitro and in vivo imaging/diagnosis and pharmacotherapy/administration. Special insights have been provided on biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity in a living system, which is imperative for their wider application in biology. These nanoparticles can be decorated with multiple contrast agents and thus can also be used as a probe for multi-mode imaging or double/triple imaging, for example, MRI-CT, MRI-PET. Similarly loading with different drug molecules/dye/fluorescent molecules and integration with other carriers have found application not only in locating these particles in vivo but simultaneously target drug delivery/hyperthermia inside the body. Studies are underway to collect the potential of these magnetically driven nanoparticles in various scientific fields such as particle interaction, heat conduction, imaging, and magnetism. Surely, this comprehensive data will help in the further development of advanced techniques for theranostics based on high-performance magnetic nanoparticles and will lead this research area in a new sustainable direction.

Recent advances in magnetic nanoparticle-based microfluidic devices for the pretreatment of pathogenic bacteria

Rapid and sensitive detection of pathogenic bacteria in various samples, including food and drinking water, is important to prevent bacterial diseases. Most bacterial solutions contain only a small number of bacteria in complex matrices with impurities; hence, pretreatment is necessary to separate and concentrate target bacteria before sensing. Among various pretreatment methods, iron oxide magnetic nanoparticle (MNP)-based pretreatment has drawn attention owing to the unique properties of MNP, such as high magnetic susceptibility, superparamagnetism, and biocompatibility. After target bacteria are captured by recognition molecule-functionalized MNPs, bacteria-MNP complexes can be easily separated and enriched by applying an external magnetic field. Various devices, such as optical, electrochemical, and magnetoresistance sensors, can be used to detect target bacteria, and their detection principles have been discussed in numerous review papers. Herein, we focus on recent research advances and challenges in magnetic pretreatment of pathogenic bacteria using microfluidic devices, which offer the advantages of process automation and miniaturization.

Magnetic nanoparticles for cancer theranostics: Advances and prospects

Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Nanoparticles have been broadly studied and emerged as a novel approach in diagnosis and treatment of tumors. Over the last decade, researches have significantly improved magnetic nanoparticle (MNP)'s theranostic potential as nanomedicine for cancer. Newer MNPs have various advantages such as wider operating temperatures, smaller sizes, lower toxicity, simpler preparations and lower production costs. With a series of unique and superior physical and chemical properties, MNPs have great potential in medical applications. In particular, using MNPs as probes for medical imaging and carriers for targeted drug delivery systems. While MNPs are expected to be the future of cancer diagnosis and precision drug delivery, more research is still required to minimize their toxicity and improve their efficacy. An ideal MNP for clinical applications should be precisely engineered to be stable to act as tracers or deliver drugs to the targeted sites, release drug components only at the targeted sites and have minimal health risks. Our review aims to consolidate the recent improvements in MNPs for clinical applications as well as discuss the future research prospects and potential of MNPs in cancer theranostics.

Functionalization of Metal and Carbon Nanoparticles with Potential in Cancer Theranostics

Cancer theranostics is a new concept of medical approach that attempts to combine in a unique nanoplatform diagnosis, monitoring and therapy so as to provide eradication of a solid tumor in a non-invasive fashion. There are many available solutions to tackle cancer using theranostic agents such as photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) under the guidance of imaging techniques (e.g., magnetic resonance-MRI, photoacoustic-PA or computed tomography-CT imaging). Additionally, there are several potential theranostic nanoplatforms able to combine diagnosis and therapy at once, such as gold nanoparticles (GNPs), graphene oxide (GO), superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) and carbon nanodots (CDs). Currently, surface functionalization of these nanoplatforms is an extremely useful protocol for effectively tuning their structures, interface features and physicochemical properties. This approach is much more reliable and amenable to fine adjustment, reaching both physicochemical and regulatory requirements as a function of the specific field of application. Here, we summarize and compare the most promising metal- and carbon-based theranostic tools reported as potential candidates in precision cancer theranostics. We focused our review on the latest developments in surface functionalization strategies for these nanosystems, or hybrid nanocomposites consisting of their combination, and discuss their main characteristics and potential applications in precision cancer medicine.

Nanoparticles for Oral Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy

Oral cancer is the sixth most common malignant cancer, affecting the health of people with an unacceptably high mortality rate. Despite numerous clinical methods in the diagnosis and therapy of oral cancer (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, surgery, and chemoradiotherapy), they still remain far from optimal. Therefore, an urgent need exists for effective and practical techniques of early diagnosis and effective therapy of oral cancer. Currently, various types of nanoparticles have aroused wide public concern, representing a promising tool for diagnostic probes and therapeutic devices. Their inherent physicochemical features, including ultrasmall size, high reactivity, and tunable surface modification, enable them to overcome some of the limitations and achieve the expected diagnostic and therapeutic effect. In this review, we introduce different types of nanoparticles that emerged for the diagnosis and therapy of oral cancers. Then, the challenges and future perspectives for nanoparticles applied in oral cancer diagnosis and therapy are presented. The objective of this review is to help researchers better understand the effect of nanoparticles on oral cancer diagnosis and therapy and may accelerate breakthroughs in this field.

Galactosylated iron oxide nanoparticles for enhancing oral bioavailability of ceftriaxone

The current study focuses on the development, characterization, biocompatibility investigation and oral bioavailability evaluation of ceftriaxone (CFT)-loaded lactobionic acid (LBA)-functionalized iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (MNP-LBA). Atomic force microscopy and dynamic light scattering showed that the developed CFT-loaded MNP-LBA is spherical, with a measured hydrodynamic size of 147 ± 15.9 nm and negative zeta potential values (-35 ± 0.58 mV). Fourier transformed infrared analysis revealed interactions between the nanocarrier and the drug. Nanoparticles showed high drug entrapment efficiencies of 91.5 ± 2.2%, and the drug was released gradually in vitro and shows prolonged in vitro stability using simulated gastrointestinal (GI) fluids. The formulations were found to be highly biocompatible (up to 100 µg/mL) and hemocompatible (up to 1.0 mg/mL). Using an albino rabbit model, the formulation showed a significant enhancement in drug plasma concentration up to 14.46 ± 2.5 µg/mL in comparison with its control (1.96 ± 0.58 µg/mL). Overall, the developed MNP-LBA formulation was found promising for provision of high-drug entrapment, gradual drug release and was appropriate for enhancing the oral delivery of CFT.

Recent Progresses in Organic-Inorganic Nano Technological Platforms for Cancer Therapeutics

Nanotechnology offers promising tools in interdisciplinary research areas and getting an upsurge of interest in cancer therapeutics. Organic nanomaterials and inorganic nanomaterials bring revolutionary advancement in cancer eradication process. Oncology is achieving new heights under nano technological platform by expediting chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photo thermodynamic therapy, bio imaging and gene therapy. Various nanovectors have been developed for targeted therapy which acts as "Nano-bullets" for tumor cells selectively. Recently combinational therapies are catching more attention due to their enhanced effect leading towards the use of combined organicinorganic nano platforms. The current review covers organic, inorganic and their hybrid nanomaterials for various therapeutic action. The technological aspect of this review emphasizes on the use of inorganic-organic hybrids and combinational therapies for better results and also explores the future opportunities in this field.

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles functionalized with a binary alkoxysilane array and poly(4-vinylpyridine) for magnetic targeting and pH-responsive release of doxorubicin

The reported supramolecular arrangement offers an attractive strategy for the pH-sensitive and magnetically-guided release of doxorubicin, which could allow exploring novel therapeutic schemes against cancer.

Hydrazone conjugated and DOX loaded PEGylated-Fe3O4 mesoporous magnetic nanoclusters (MNCs): hyperthermia and in vitro chemotherapy

Schematic representation of the functionalization of MNCs and DOX loading.

Doxorubicin-Conjugated Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized by Laser Pyrolysis: In Vitro Study on Human Breast Cancer Cells

Even today, breast cancer remains a global public problem, with a high mortality rate among women. Nanoparticle (NP) based systems are developed to enhance drug delivery, reducing the toxic effect of medicine molecules. By using iron oxide nanoparticles for cancer treatment, several advantages were highlighted: the ability to target specific locations derived from their magnetic properties and reduced side effects. The aim of this study was to examine on breast cancer cell line the anticancer potential of γ-Fe2O3 NPs loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) and stabilized with carboxymethylcellulose sodium (CMCNa). The γ-Fe2O3 NPs were synthesized by laser pyrolysis technique and their nanometric size and crystallinity were confirmed by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The loading efficiency was estimated by using absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. The DOX conjugated//CMCNa coated γ-Fe2O3 NPs proved through the biological studies to have a good anticancer effect through the inhibition of tumoral cell proliferation, disruption of the cellular membrane, induction of cell death and reduced effects on normal breast cells. Our data showed that DOX cytotoxicity increases significantly when conjugated with ɣ-Fe2O3 and ɣ-Fe2O3_CMCNa, a 50% reduction of cancer cell viability was obtained with a concentration around 0.1 µg/mL.

Shedding Light on Metal-Based Nanoparticles in Zebrafish by Computed Tomography with Micrometer Resolution

Metal-based nanoparticles are clinically used for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. After parenteral administration, they will distribute throughout different organs. Quantification of their distribution within tissues in the 3D space, however, remains a challenge owing to the small particle diameter. In this study, synchrotron radiation-based hard X-ray tomography (SRμCT) in absorption and phase contrast modes is evaluated for the localization of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) in soft tissues based on their electron density and X-ray attenuation. Biodistribution of SPIONs is studied using zebrafish embryos as a vertebrate screening model. This label-free approach gives rise to an isotropic, 3D, direct space visualization of the entire 2.5 mm-long animal with a spatial resolution of around 2 µm. High resolution image stacks are available on a dedicated internet page (http://zebrafish.pharma-te.ch). X-ray tomography is combined with physico-chemical characterization and cellular uptake studies to confirm the safety and effectiveness of protective SPION coatings. It is demonstrated that SRμCT provides unprecedented insights into the zebrafish embryo anatomy and tissue distribution of label-free metal oxide nanoparticles.

Preparation, surface functionalization and application of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles

This paper reviews recent developments in the preparation, surface functionalization, and applications of Fe₃O₄ magnetic nanoparticles. Especially, it includes preparation methods (such as electrodeposition, polyol methods, etc.), organic materials (such as polymers, small molecules, surfactants, biomolecules, etc.) or inorganic materials (such as silica, metals, and metal oxidation/sulfide, functionalized coating of carbon surface, graphene, etc.) and its applications (such as magnetic separation, protein fixation, magnetic catalyst, environmental treatment, medical research, etc.). In the end, some existing challenges and possible future trends in the field were discussed.

Electrochemical Immunoassay for Determination of Glycated Albumin using Nanozymes

We developed a new nanozyme-based electrochemical immunoassay method for the monitoring of glycated albumin (GA) known to reflect short-term glycaemic levels. For this study, we synthesized urchin-like Pt nanozymes (uPtNZs) and applied them to colorimetric and electrochemical assays for sensitive determination of GA in total human serum albumin (tHSA) using 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) and thionine as substrates, respectively. The uPtNZs showed peroxidase-mimic activity in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. Boronic acid (BA)-agarose bead was used to capture GA through specific cis-diol interactions. uPtNZs were modified with GA antibody (GA-Ab) to form sandwich complexes with GA/BA-agarose bead. The amount of Ab-uPtNZ/GA/BA-agarose bead complex increased with increasing percentage of GA in 50 mg/mL tHSA. The colorimetric assay exhibited linearity from 0.02 to 10% (10 µg/mL - 5 mg/mL) GA with an LOD of 0.02% (9.2 µg/mL). For electrochemical assay, GA was detected from 0.01 to 20% (5 µg/mL - 10 mg/mL) with an LOD of 0.008% (3.8 µg/mL). The recovery values of measured GA in human plasma samples were from 106 to 107%. These results indicate that electrochemical assay using uPtNZs is a promising method for determining GA.

Enhancement in Oral Absorption of Ceftriaxone by Highly Functionalized Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles

The present study aims at the development, characterization, biocompatibility investigation and oral bioavailability evaluation of ceftriaxone (CFT)-loaded N′-methacryloylisonicotinohydrazide (MIH)-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (CFT-MIH-MNPs). Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) showed that the developed CFT loaded MIH-MNPs are spherical, with a measured hydrodynamic size of 184.0 ± 2.7 nm and negative zeta potential values (–20.2 ± 0.4 mV). Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) analysis revealed interactions between the nanocarrier and the drug. Nanoparticles showed high drug entrapment efficiency (EE) of 79.4% ±1.5%, and the drug was released gradually in vitro and showed prolonged in vitro stability using simulated gastrointestinal tract (GIT) fluids. The formulations were found to be highly biocompatible (up to 100 µg/mL) and hemocompatible (up to 1.0 mg/mL). Using an albino rabbit model, the formulation showed a significant enhancement in drug plasma concentration up to 14.4 ± 1.8 µg/mL in comparison with its control (2.0 ± 0.6 µg/mL). Overall, the developed CFT-MIH-MNPs formulation was promising for provision of high drug entrapment, gradual drug release and suitability for enhancing the oral delivery of CFT.

Urinary PCA3 detection in prostate cancer by magnetic nanoparticles coupled with colorimetric enzyme-linked oligonucleotide assay

PCA3 is one of the most prostate cancer-specific genes described to date. Of note, PCA3 expression is detectable at high level in the urine of prostate cancer (PCa) patients. Accordingly, PCA3 is an ideal biomarker for PCa diagnosis. Several techniques for the measurement of this biomarker in urine have been developed but there are still some drawbacks. In this study, magnetic nanoparticle-based PCR coupled with streptavidin-horseradish peroxidase and a substrate for colorimetric detection was established as a potential assay for urinary PCA3 detection. The method provided a high specificity for PCA3 gene in LNCaP prostate cancer cell line. Additionally, this technique could detect PCA3 at femtogram level which was approximately 1,000-fold more sensitive than the conventional RT-PCR followed by agarose gel electrophoresis. The effectiveness of the method was assessed by PCA3 detection in clinical specimens. The relative PCA3 expression of PCa patients determined by this assay was significantly greater than that of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients and healthy controls. The results of our test were comparable with the results of qRT-PCR. The proposed method is promising to distinguish between cancerous and non-cancerous groups. Altogether, this simple assay is practicable and useful for prostate cancer diagnosis.

Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs) for Diagnosis and Treatment of Breast, Ovarian and Cervical Cancers

Background:

The potential of Super Paramagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs) as theranostic agents for cancer has been investigated extensively. SPIONS can be utilized for diagnostic imaging, drug delivery as well as for therapeutic applications. SPIONS are of particular interest because of their potential for non-invasive diagnosis and non-invasive therapeutic applications. This article is a review of in vivo and clinical studies of SPIONs for diagnosis and treatment of breast, ovarian and cervical cancer. The current limitations of this technology with relation to clinical therapeutic applications and the potential to overcome these limitations are also discussed.

Methods:

NCBI Pubmed was searched for relevant documents by using keyword and MESH based search. The following keyword combinations were used: ‘breast cancer’ and SPION, ‘ovarian cancer’ and SPION, and ‘cervical cancer’ and SPION. The resulting list was manually scanned for the studies involving clinical and in vivo studies.

Results:

The 29 most relevant publications were identified and reviewed.

Conclusion:

Although numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of the use of SPIONs for both diagnostic and therapeutic applications, there is relatively little progress towards translation to clinical applications involving breast, ovarian and cervical cancer.

MiR-124 and the Underlying Therapeutic Promise of Neurodegenerative Disorders

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) are a group of chronic progressive neurological diseases based on primary neurodegeneration. The common pathological characteristics of various NDDs are neuronal degeneration, deletion, glial cell proliferation, and hypertrophy at specific locations in the nervous system. Proliferation and hypertrophy of microglia are manifestations of inflammation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators of glial cells. MiRNAs are small non-coding molecules that regulate gene expression. Altered expression of miRNAs has been associated with several NDD pathological processes, among which regulation of the inflammatory response is key and a research hotspot at present. At the same time, miRNAs are also biological markers for diagnosis and potential targets for treating NDDs. MiR-124 is highly conserved and enriched in the mammalian brain. Emerging studies have suggested that miR-124 is closely related to the pathogenesis of NDDs and may be an effective treatment strategy to reduce inflammation associated with NDDs. In this review, we describe a summary of general miRNA biology, implications in pathophysiology, the potential roles of miR-124 associated with inflammation, and the use of miRNA as a future biomarker and an application for NDD therapy.

Synthesis, physical characterization, and antifungal and antibacterial activities of oleic acid capped nanomagnetite and cobalt-doped nanomagnetite

Nanoparticles, 10–14 nm, consisting of either Fe3O4 or Co0.2Fe2.8O4 stabilized with oleic acid, were prepared using solution combustion. Their structural and magnetic properties were examined using X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The properties of both sets of materials are similar, except that the cobalt-doped particles are considerably less magnetic. The in vitro inhibitory activities of the nanoparticles were assessed against pathogenic bacteria Shigella dysenteriae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Streptococcus pyogenes, and pathogenic fungi and molds Candida albicans, Fusarium oxysporum, and Aspergillus fumigatus. The magnetite nanoparticles were moderately effective against all tested pathogens, but the activity of the cobalt-doped nanoparticles was significantly lower, possibly due to an interruption of the Fenton reaction at the bacterial membrane. This work suggests that potentially doping magnetite with stronger metal oxidants may instead enhance their antimicrobial effects.

Magnetic nanoparticles in nanomedicine: a review of recent advances

Nanomaterials, in addition to their small size, possess unique physicochemical properties that differ from bulk materials, making them ideal for a host of novel applications. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are one important class of nanomaterials that have been widely studied for their potential applications in nanomedicine. Due to the fact that MNPs can be detected and manipulated by remote magnetic fields, it opens a wide opportunity for them to be used in vivo. Nowadays, MNPs have been used for diverse applications including magnetic biosensing (diagnostics), magnetic imaging, magnetic separation, drug and gene delivery, and hyperthermia therapy, etc. Specifically, we reviewed some emerging techniques in magnetic diagnostics such as magnetoresistive (MR) and micro-Hall (μHall) biosensors, as well as the magnetic particle spectroscopy, magnetic relaxation switching and surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)-based bioassays. Recent advances in applying MNPs as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging and as tracer materials in magnetic particle imaging are reviewed. In addition, the development of high magnetic moment MNPs with proper surface functionalization has progressed exponentially over the past decade. To this end, different MNP synthesis approaches and surface coating strategies are reviewed and the biocompatibility and toxicity of surface functionalized MNP nanocomposites are also discussed. Herein, we are aiming to provide a comprehensive assessment of the state-of-the-art biological and biomedical applications of MNPs. This review is not only to provide in-depth insights into the different synthesis, biofunctionalization, biosensing, imaging, and therapy methods but also to give an overview of limitations and possibilities of each technology.

SPIONs Prepared in Air through Improved Synthesis Methodology: The Influence of γ-Fe2O3/Fe3O4 Ratio and Coating Composition on Magnetic Properties

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) have shown great potential in biomedicine due to their high intrinsic magnetization behaviour. These are small particles of magnetite or maghemite, and when coated, their surface oxidation is prevented, their aggregation tendency is reduced, their dispersity is improved, and the stability and blood circulation time are increased, which are mandatory requirements in biomedical applications. In this work, SPIONs were synthesized in air through a reduction-precipitation method and coated with four different polymers (Polyethylene glycol(PEG) 1000/6000 and dextran T10/T70). All the synthesized samples were structurally and magnetically characterized by transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) magnetometry. SPIONs centrifuged and dried in vacuum with an average diameter of at least 7.5 nm and a composition ≤60% of maghemite and ≥40% of magnetite showed the best magnetization results, namely a saturation magnetization of ~64 emu/g at 300 K, similar to the best reported values for SPIONs prepared in controlled atmosphere. As far as SPIONs’ coatings are concerned, during their preparation procedure, surface polymers must be introduced after the SPIONs’ precipitation. Furthermore, polymers with shorter chains do not affect the SPIONs’ magnetization performance, although longer chain polymers significantly decrease the coated particle magnetization values, which is undesirable.

Stimuli-responsive nanoscale drug delivery systems for cancer therapy

Currently, with the rapid development of nanotechnology, novel drug delivery systems (DDSs) have made rapid progress, in which nanocarriers play an important role in the tumour treatment. In view of the conventional chemotherapeutic drugs with many restrictions such as nonspecific systemic toxicity, short half-life and low concentration in the tumour sites, stimuli-responsive DDSs can deliver anti-tumour drugs targeting to the specific sites of tumours. Owing to precise stimuli response, stimuli-responsive DDSs can control drug release, so as to improve the curative effects, reduce the damage of normal tissues and organs, and decrease the side effects of traditional anticancer drugs. At present, according to the physicochemical properties and structures of nanomaterials, they can be divided into three categories: (1) endogenous stimuli-responsive materials, including pH, enzyme and redox responsive materials; (2) exogenous stimuli-responsive materials, such as temperature, light, ultrasound and magnetic field responsive materials; (3) multi-stimuli responsive materials. This review mainly focuses on the researches and developments of these novel stimuli-responsive DDSs based on above-mentioned nanomaterials and their clinical applications.

Theranostic nanoparticles based on magnetic nanoparticles: design, preparation, characterization, and evaluation as novel anticancer drug carrier and MRI contrast agent

In this work, we reported the synthesis of curcumin (CUR)-loaded hydrophilic and hydrophobic natural amino acids (AAs)-modified iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (IONPs). Two types of AAs, l-lysine (Lys) and l-phenylalanine (PhA), were selected to study their effects on loading capacity, release profile of CUR, biocompatibility, and anticancer activity. CUR-loaded AAs-modified IONPs (F@AAs@CUR NPs) were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. Next, the various kinetic equations were fitted to the release data of CUR from F@Lys@CUR NPs and F@PhA@CUR NPs. Additionally, hemolysis test and MTT assays on HFF-2 and HEK-293 cell lines were performed for determination of biocompatibility of AAs-coated IONPs. Finally, the anticancer activity of F@AAs@CUR NPs examined on MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. The results indicate that these nanocarriers are nontoxic and biocompatible and also F@AAs@CUR NPs are suitable carriers for delivery of curcumin and even other hydrophobic drugs. Also, the MRI training established the effectiveness of IONPs as contrast agent for the revealing of tumor as evidenced from the phantom images as well as higher T₂ relaxivity.

Advances in Magnetic Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications

Magnetic nanoparticles (NPs) are emerging as an important class of biomedical functional nanomaterials in areas such as hyperthermia, drug release, tissue engineering, theranostic, and lab-on-a-chip, due to their exclusive chemical and physical properties. Although some works can be found reviewing the main application of magnetic NPs in the area of biomedical engineering, recent and intense progress on magnetic nanoparticle research, from synthesis to surface functionalization strategies, demands for a work that includes, summarizes, and debates current directions and ongoing advancements in this research field. Thus, the present work addresses the structure, synthesis, properties, and the incorporation of magnetic NPs in nanocomposites, highlighting the most relevant effects of the synthesis on the magnetic and structural properties of the magnetic NPs and how these effects limit their utilization in the biomedical area. Furthermore, this review next focuses on the application of magnetic NPs on the biomedical field. Finally, a discussion of the main challenges and an outlook of the future developments in the use of magnetic NPs for advanced biomedical applications are critically provided.

Injectable calcium phosphate scaffold with iron oxide nanoparticles to enhance osteogenesis via dental pulp stem cells

Literature search revealed no systematic report on iron oxide nanoparticle-incorporating calcium phosphate cement scaffolds (IONP-CPC). The objectives of this study were to: (1) use γFe₂O₃ nanoparticles (γIONPs) and αFe₂O₃ nanoparticles (αIONPs) to develop novel IONP-CPC scaffolds, and (2) investigate human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) seeding on IONP-CPC for bone tissue engineering for the first time. IONP-CPC scaffolds were fabricated. Physiochemical properties of IONP-CPC scaffolds were characterized. hDPSC seeding on scaffolds, cell proliferation, osteogenic differentiation and bone matrix mineral synthesis by cells were measured. Our data demonstrated that the osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs was markedly enhanced via IONP incorporation into CPC. Substantial increases (about three folds) in ALP activity and osteogenic gene expressions were achieved over those without IONPs. Bone matrix mineral synthesis by the cells was increased by two- to three folds over that without IONPs. The enhanced cellular osteogenesis was attributed to: (1) the surface nanotopography of IONP-CPC scaffold, and (2) the cell internalization of IONPs released from IONP-CPC scaffold. Our results demonstrate that the novel CPC functionalized with IONPs is promising to promote osteoinduction and bone regeneration. In conclusion, it is highly promising to incorporate γIONPs and αIONPs into CPC scaffold for bone tissue engineering, yielding substantially better stem cell attachment, spreading and osteogenic differentiation, and much greater bone mineral synthesis by the seeded cells. Therefore, novel CPC scaffolds containing γIONPs and αIONPs are promising for dental, craniofacial and orthopaedic applications to substantially enhance bone regeneration.

Synthesis, Functionalization, and Design of Magnetic Nanoparticles for Theranostic Applications

In order to translate nanotechnology into medical practice, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have been presented as a class of non-invasive nanomaterials for numerous biomedical applications. In particular, MNPs have opened a door for simultaneous diagnosis and brisk treatment of diseases in the form of theranostic agents. This review highlights the recent advances in preparation and utilization of MNPs from the synthesis and functionalization steps to the final design consideration in evading the body immune system for therapeutic and diagnostic applications with addressing the most recent examples of the literature in each section. This study provides a conceptual framework of a wide range of synthetic routes classified mainly as wet chemistry, state-of-the-art microfluidic reactors, and biogenic routes, along with the most popular coating materials to stabilize resultant MNPs. Additionally, key aspects of prolonging the half-life of MNPs via overcoming the sequential biological barriers are covered through unraveling the biophysical interactions at the bio-nano interface and giving a set of criteria to efficiently modulate MNPs' physicochemical properties. Furthermore, concepts of passive and active targeting for successful cell internalization, by respectively exploiting the unique properties of cancers and novel targeting ligands are described in detail. Finally, this study extensively covers the recent developments in magnetic drug targeting and hyperthermia as therapeutic applications of MNPs. In addition, multi-modal imaging via fusion of magnetic resonance imaging, and also innovative magnetic particle imaging with other imaging techniques for early diagnosis of diseases are extensively provided.

Significant role of cationic polymers in drug delivery systems

Cationic polymers are characterized as the macromolecules that possess positive charges, which can be either inherently in the polymer side chains and/or its backbone. Based on their origins, cationic polymers are divided in two category including natural and synthetic, in which the possessed positive charges are as result of primary, secondary or tertiary amine functional groups that could be protonated in particular situations. Cationic polymers have been employed commonly as drug delivery agents due to their superior encapsulation efficacy, enhanced bioavailability, low toxicity and improved release profile. In this paper, we focus on the most prominent examples of cationic polymers which have been revealed to be applicable in drug delivery systems and we also discuss their general synthesis and surface modification methods as well as their controlled release profile in drug delivery.