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Ghosh S, Bhaskar R, Mishra R, Arockia Babu M, Abomughaid MM, Jha NK, Sinha JK. Neurological insights into brain-targeted cancer therapy and bioinspired microrobots. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104105. [PMID: 39029869 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104105] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Cancer, a multifaceted and pernicious disease, continuously challenges medicine, requiring innovative treatments. Brain cancers pose unique and daunting challenges due to the intricacies of the central nervous system and the blood-brain barrier. In this era of precision medicine, the convergence of neurology, oncology, and cutting-edge technology has given birth to a promising avenue - targeted cancer therapy. Furthermore, bioinspired microrobots have emerged as an ingenious approach to drug delivery, enabling precision and control in cancer treatment. This Keynote review explores the intricate web of neurological insights into brain-targeted cancer therapy and the paradigm-shifting world of bioinspired microrobots. It serves as a critical and comprehensive overview of these evolving fields, aiming to underscore their integration and potential for revolutionary cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shampa Ghosh
- GloNeuro, Sector 107, Vishwakarma Road, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301, India
| | - Rakesh Bhaskar
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeonsang 38541, Republic of Korea; Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeonsang 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Richa Mishra
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujrat 391760, India
| | - M Arockia Babu
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, India
| | - Mosleh Mohammad Abomughaid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Centre of Research Impact and Outcome, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, Punjab, India; Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India; School of Bioengineering & Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India; Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University, Mohali, India.
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Weng PW, Liu CH, Jheng PR, Chiang CC, Chen YT, Rethi L, Hsieh YSY, Chuang AEY. Spermatozoon-propelled microcellular submarines combining innate magnetic hyperthermia with derived nanotherapies for thrombolysis and ischemia mitigation. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:470. [PMID: 39118029 PMCID: PMC11308583 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02716-w] [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: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Thrombotic cardiovascular diseases are a prevalent factor contributing to both physical impairment and mortality. Thrombolysis and ischemic mitigation have emerged as leading contemporary therapeutic approaches for addressing the consequences of ischemic injury and reperfusion damage. Herein, an innovative cellular-cloaked spermatozoon-driven microcellular submarine (SPCS), comprised of multimodal motifs, was designed to integrate nano-assembly thrombolytics with an immunomodulatory ability derived from innate magnetic hyperthermia. Rheotaxis-based navigation was utilized to home to and cross the clot barrier, and finally accumulate in ischemic vascular organs, where the thrombolytic motif was "switched-on" by the action of thrombus magnetic red blood cell-driven magnetic hyperthermia. In a murine model, the SPCS system combining innate magnetic hyperthermia demonstrated the capacity to augment delivery efficacy, produce nanotherapeutic outcomes, exhibit potent thrombolytic activity, and ameliorate ischemic tissue damage. These findings underscore the multifaceted potential of our designed approach, offering both thrombolytic and ischemia-mitigating effects. Given its extended therapeutic effects and thrombus-targeting capability, this biocompatible SPCS system holds promise as an innovative therapeutic agent for enhancing efficacy and preventing risks after managing thrombosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Wei Weng
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International Ph.D. Program in Biomedical Engineering, Graduate Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Orthopedics, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hung Liu
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Urology and Kidney, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ru Jheng
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International Ph.D. Program in Biomedical Engineering, Graduate Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Che Chiang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International Ph.D. Program in Biomedical Engineering, Graduate Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
| | - Yan-Ting Chen
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International Ph.D. Program in Biomedical Engineering, Graduate Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
| | - Lekshmi Rethi
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International Ph.D. Program in Biomedical Engineering, Graduate Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
| | - Yves S Y Hsieh
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- Division of Glycoscience, Department of Chemistry, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Alba Nova University Centre, Stockholm, SE106 91, Sweden
| | - Andrew E-Y Chuang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International Ph.D. Program in Biomedical Engineering, Graduate Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan.
- Cell Physiology and Molecular Image Research Center, Taipei Medical University-Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei, 11696, Taiwan.
- Precision Medicine and Translational Cancer Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
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Gao P, Duan Z, Xu G, Gong Q, Wang J, Luo K, Chen J. Harnessing and Mimicking Bacterial Features to Combat Cancer: From Living Entities to Artificial Mimicking Systems. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2405075. [PMID: 39136067 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202405075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial-derived micro-/nanomedicine has garnered considerable attention in anticancer therapy, owing to the unique natural features of bacteria, including specific targeting ability, immunogenic benefits, physicochemical modifiability, and biotechnological editability. Besides, bacterial components have also been explored as promising drug delivery vehicles. Harnessing these bacterial features, cutting-edge physicochemical and biotechnologies have been applied to attenuated tumor-targeting bacteria with unique properties or functions for potent and effective cancer treatment, including strategies of gene-editing and genetic circuits. Further, the advent of bacteria-inspired micro-/nanorobots and mimicking artificial systems has furnished fresh perspectives for formulating strategies for developing highly efficient drug delivery systems. Focusing on the unique natural features and advantages of bacteria, this review delves into advances in bacteria-derived drug delivery systems for anticancer treatment in recent years, which has experienced a process from living entities to artificial mimicking systems. Meanwhile, a summary of relative clinical trials is provided and primary challenges impeding their clinical application are discussed. Furthermore, future directions are suggested for bacteria-derived systems to combat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Gao
- Department of General Surgery, Breast Disease Center, Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Liver Transplant Center, Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhenyu Duan
- Department of General Surgery, Breast Disease Center, Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Liver Transplant Center, Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Gang Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Breast Disease Center, Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Liver Transplant Center, Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Department of General Surgery, Breast Disease Center, Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Liver Transplant Center, Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Radiology, West China Xiamen Hospital of Sichuan University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361000, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Kui Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Breast Disease Center, Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Liver Transplant Center, Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Breast Disease Center, Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Liver Transplant Center, Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
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Miyabe S, Fujinaga Y, Tsuchiya H, Fujimoto S. TiO 2 nanotubes with customized diameters for local drug delivery systems. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2024; 112:e35445. [PMID: 38946669 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.35445] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the drug release behavior of diameter customized TiO2 nanotube layers fabricated by anodization with various applied voltage sequences: conventional constant applied potentials of 20 V (45 nm) and 60 V (80 nm), a 20/60 V stepped potential (50 nm [two-diameter]), and a 20-60 V swept potential (49 nm [full-tapered]) (values in parentheses indicate the inner tube diameter at the top part of nanotube layers). The structures of the 50 nm (two-diameter) and 49 nm (full-tapered) samples had smaller inner diameters at the top part of nanotube layers than that of the 80 nm sample, while the outer diameters at the bottom part of nanotube layers were almost the same size as the 80 nm sample. The 80 nm sample, which had the largest nanotube diameter and length, exhibited the greatest burst release, followed by the 50 nm (two-diameter), 49 nm (full-tapered), and 45 nm samples. The initial burst released drug amounts and release rates from the 50 nm (two-diameter) and 49 nm (full-tapered) samples were significantly suppressed by the smaller tube top. On the other hand, the largest proportion of the slow released drug amount to the total released drug amount was observed for the 50 nm (two-diameter) sample. Thus, 50 nm (two-diameter) achieved suppressed initial burst release and large storage capacity. Therefore, this study has, for the first time, applied TiO2 nanotube layers with modulated diameters (two-diameter and full-tapered) to the realization of a localized drug delivery system (LDDS) with customized drug release properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Miyabe
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yushi Fujinaga
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tsuchiya
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shinji Fujimoto
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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Neagu AN, Jayaweera T, Weraduwage K, Darie CC. A Nanorobotics-Based Approach of Breast Cancer in the Nanotechnology Era. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4981. [PMID: 38732200 PMCID: PMC11084175 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094981] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
We are living in an era of advanced nanoscience and nanotechnology. Numerous nanomaterials, culminating in nanorobots, have demonstrated ingenious applications in biomedicine, including breast cancer (BC) nano-theranostics. To solve the complicated problem of BC heterogeneity, non-targeted drug distribution, invasive diagnostics or surgery, resistance to classic onco-therapies and real-time monitoring of tumors, nanorobots are designed to perform multiple tasks at a small scale, even at the organelles or molecular level. Over the last few years, most nanorobots have been bioengineered as biomimetic and biocompatible nano(bio)structures, resembling different organisms and cells, such as urchin, spider, octopus, fish, spermatozoon, flagellar bacterium or helicoidal cyanobacterium. In this review, readers will be able to deepen their knowledge of the structure, behavior and role of several types of nanorobots, among other nanomaterials, in BC theranostics. We summarized here the characteristics of many functionalized nanodevices designed to counteract the main neoplastic hallmark features of BC, from sustaining proliferation and evading anti-growth signaling and resisting programmed cell death to inducing angiogenesis, activating invasion and metastasis, preventing genomic instability, avoiding immune destruction and deregulating autophagy. Most of these nanorobots function as targeted and self-propelled smart nano-carriers or nano-drug delivery systems (nano-DDSs), enhancing the efficiency and safety of chemo-, radio- or photodynamic therapy, or the current imagistic techniques used in BC diagnosis. Most of these nanorobots have been tested in vitro, using various BC cell lines, as well as in vivo, mainly based on mice models. We are still waiting for nanorobots that are low-cost, as well as for a wider transition of these favorable effects from laboratory to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca-Narcisa Neagu
- Laboratory of Animal Histology, Faculty of Biology, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iași, Carol I bvd. 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Taniya Jayaweera
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Laboratories, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699-5810, USA; (T.J.); (K.W.)
| | - Krishan Weraduwage
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Laboratories, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699-5810, USA; (T.J.); (K.W.)
| | - Costel C. Darie
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Laboratories, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699-5810, USA; (T.J.); (K.W.)
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Celi N, Cai J, Sun H, Feng L, Zhang D, Gong D. Biohybrid Flexible Sperm-like Microrobot for Targeted Chemo-Photothermal Therapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024. [PMID: 38687629 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c02836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Magnetic micro/nanorobots are promising platforms for targeted drug delivery, and their construction with soft and flexible features has received extensive attention for practical applications. Despite significant efforts in this field, facile fabrication of magnetic microrobots with flexible structures and versatility in targeted therapy remains a big challenge. Herein, we proposed a novel universal strategy to fabricate a biohybrid flexible sperm-like microrobot (BFSM) based on a Chlorella (Ch.) cell and artificial flagella, which showed great potential for targeted chemo-photothermal therapy for the first time. In this approach, microspherical Ch. cells were utilized to construct the microrobotic heads, which were intracellularly deposited with core-shell Pd@Au, extracellularly magnetized with Fe3O4, and further loaded with anticancer drug. The magnetic heads with excellent photothermal and chemotherapeutic capability were further assembled with flexible polypyrrole nanowires via biotin-streptavidin bonding to construct the BFSMs. Based on the exquisite head-to-tail structures, the BFSMs could be effectively propelled under precessing magnetic fields and move back and forth without a U-turn. Moreover, in vitro chemo-photothermal tests were conducted to verify their performance of targeted drug delivery toward localized HeLa cells. Due to this superior versatility and facile fabrication, the BFSMs demonstrated great potential for targeted anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuoer Celi
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jun Cai
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hongyan Sun
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Lin Feng
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Deyuan Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - De Gong
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
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Madadi M, Khoee S, Layegh H. Experimental and Molecular Docking Studies on Enzyme-Driven Biohybrid-Inspired Micromotors Based on Amylose- b-(PEG- co-PBA) Inclusion Complexes. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:5214-5227. [PMID: 38469650 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c03440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Amylose is a linear polysaccharide with a unique ability to form helical inclusion complexes with the appropriate guest components. Numerous studies have been conducted on encapsulation of bioactive compounds for various applications. In the biomedical field, biohybrid micro/nanomotors (MNMs) have emerged as innovative candidates due to their excellent biocompatible and biodegradable properties. This study was inspired by the biohybrid- and enzymatic-propelled MNMs and explored the potential of amylose inclusion complexes (ICs) in creating these MNMs. The study developed a new type of micromotor made from (PEG-co-PBA)-b-amylose. Nanoprecipitation, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and ultrasound-treated methods were employed to create spherical, thick crystalline, and rod-bacterial-like morphologies, respectively. Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB) was used as the catalytic fuel to induce the motion by the enzymatic degradation of ester linkages in the polymeric segment. Optical microscopy was utilized to observe the motion of the motors following incubation with enzyme concentrations of 5, 10, and 20% (w/w). The results demonstrated that the velocity of the motors increased proportionally with the percentage of added enzyme. Additionally, a comprehensive molecular docking evaluation with PyRx software provided insight into the interaction of the CALB enzyme with polymeric moieties and demonstrated a good affinity between the enzyme and polymer in the binding site. This study provides novel insight into the design and development of enzymatically driven polymeric micromotors and nanomotors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mozhdeh Madadi
- Polymer Laboratory, School of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 141556455, Tehran 14155-6455, Iran
| | - Sepideh Khoee
- Polymer Laboratory, School of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 141556455, Tehran 14155-6455, Iran
| | - Hesam Layegh
- Polymer Laboratory, School of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 141556455, Tehran 14155-6455, Iran
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Amiri Z, Hasani A, Abedini F, Malek M, Madaah Hosseini HR. Urease-Powered Black TiO 2 Micromotors for Photothermal Therapy of Bladder Cancer. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:3019-3030. [PMID: 38217858 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c11772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Urease-powered nano/micromotors can move at physiological urea concentrations, making them useful for biomedical applications, such as treating bladder cancer. However, their movement in biological environments is still challenging. Herein, Janus micromotors based on black TiO2 with urease asymmetric catalytic coating were designed to take benefit of the optical properties of black TiO2 under near-infrared light and the movement capability in simulated bladder environments (urea). The black TiO2 microspheres were half-coated with a thin layer of Au, and l-Cysteine was utilized to attach the urease enzyme to the Au surface using its thiol group. Biocatalytic hydrolysis of urea through urease at biologically relevant concentrations provided the driving force for micromotors. A variety of parameters, such as urea fuel concentration, viscosity, and ionic character of the environment, were used to investigate how micromotors moved in different concentrations of urea in water, PBS, NaCl, and urine. The results indicate that micromotors are propelled through ionic self-diffusiophoresis caused by urea enzymatic catalysis. Due to their low toxicity and in vitro anticancer effect, micromotors are effective agents for photothermal therapy, which can help kill bladder cancer cells. These promising results suggest that biocompatible micromotors hold great potential for improving cancer treatment and facilitating diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Amiri
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, P. C. 1458889694 Tehran, Iran
| | - Atefeh Hasani
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, P. C. 1458889694 Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Abedini
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Hormozgan, P. C. 7916193145 Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Mahrooz Malek
- Department of Radiology, Medical Imaging Center, Advanced Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Research Center (ADIR), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Imam Khomeini Hospital, P. C. 1416634793 Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Madaah Hosseini
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, P. C. 1458889694 Tehran, Iran
- Institute for Convergence Science and Technology (ICST), Sharif University of Technology, P. C. 1458889694 Tehran, Iran
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Liu J, Li L, Cao C, Feng Z, Liu Y, Ma H, Luo W, Guan J, Mou F. Swarming Multifunctional Heater-Thermometer Nanorobots for Precise Feedback Hyperthermia Delivery. ACS NANO 2023; 17:16731-16742. [PMID: 37651715 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c03131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Micro-/nanorobots (MNRs) are envisioned to act as "motile-targeting" platforms for biomedical tasks due to their ability to propel and navigate in challenging, hard-to-reach biological environments. However, it remains a great challenge for current swarming MNRs to accurately report and regulate therapeutic doses during disease treatment. Here we present the development of swarming multifunctional heater-thermometer nanorobots (HT-NRs) and their application in precise feedback photothermal hyperthermia delivery. The HT-NRs are designed as photothermal-responsive photonic nanochains consisting of magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles arranged periodically in one dimension and encapsulated in a temperature-responsive hydrogel shell. The HT-NRs exhibit energetic and controllable swarming motions under a rotating magnetic field, while simultaneously functioning as motile nanoheaters and nanothermometers, utilizing their photothermal conversion and (photo)thermal-responsive structural color changes (photothermochromism). Consequently, the HT-NRs can be quickly deployed to a remote target area (e.g., a superficial tumor lesion) using their collective motion and selectively eliminate diseased cells in a specific targeted region by utilizing their self-reporting photothermochromism as visual feedback for precisely regulating external light irradiation. This work may inspire the development of intelligent multifunctional theranostic micro-/nanorobots and their practical applications in precise disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Luolin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuan Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziqi Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Huiru Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
- Wuhan Institute of Photochemistry and Technology, 7 North Bingang Road, Wuhan 430083, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
- Wuhan Institute of Photochemistry and Technology, 7 North Bingang Road, Wuhan 430083, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianguo Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
- Wuhan Institute of Photochemistry and Technology, 7 North Bingang Road, Wuhan 430083, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangzhi Mou
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
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Kong X, Gao P, Wang J, Fang Y, Hwang KC. Advances of medical nanorobots for future cancer treatments. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:74. [PMID: 37452423 PMCID: PMC10347767 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01463-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Early detection and diagnosis of many cancers is very challenging. Late stage detection of a cancer always leads to high mortality rates. It is imperative to develop novel and more sensitive and effective diagnosis and therapeutic methods for cancer treatments. The development of new cancer treatments has become a crucial aspect of medical advancements. Nanobots, as one of the most promising applications of nanomedicines, are at the forefront of multidisciplinary research. With the progress of nanotechnology, nanobots enable the assembly and deployment of functional molecular/nanosized machines and are increasingly being utilized in cancer diagnosis and therapeutic treatment. In recent years, various practical applications of nanobots for cancer treatments have transitioned from theory to practice, from in vitro experiments to in vivo applications. In this paper, we review and analyze the recent advancements of nanobots in cancer treatments, with a particular emphasis on their key fundamental features and their applications in drug delivery, tumor sensing and diagnosis, targeted therapy, minimally invasive surgery, and other comprehensive treatments. At the same time, we discuss the challenges and the potential research opportunities for nanobots in revolutionizing cancer treatments. In the future, medical nanobots are expected to become more sophisticated and capable of performing multiple medical functions and tasks, ultimately becoming true nanosubmarines in the bloodstream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyi Kong
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital and Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, 518116, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Breast Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Yi Fang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Kuo Chu Hwang
- Department of Chemistry, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan ROC.
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Zhang W, Deng Y, Zhao J, Zhang T, Zhang X, Song W, Wang L, Li T. Amoeba-Inspired Magnetic Venom Microrobots. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2207360. [PMID: 36869412 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Nature provides a successful evolutionary direction for single-celled organisms to solve complex problems and complete survival tasks - pseudopodium. Amoeba, a unicellular protozoan, can produce temporary pseudopods in any direction by controlling the directional flow of protoplasm to perform important life activities such as environmental sensing, motility, predation, and excretion. However, creating robotic systems with pseudopodia to emulate environmental adaptability and tasking capabilities of natural amoeba or amoeboid cells remains challenging. Here, this work presents a strategy that uses alternating magnetic fields to reconfigure magnetic droplet into Amoeba-like microrobot, and the mechanisms of pseudopodia generation and locomotion are analyzed. By simply adjusting the field direction, microrobots switch in monopodia, bipodia, and locomotion modes, performing all pseudopod operations such as active contraction, extension, bending, and amoeboid movement. The pseudopodia endow droplet robots with excellent maneuverability to adapt to environmental variations, including spanning 3D terrains and swimming in bulk liquids. Inspired by the "Venom," the phagocytosis and parasitic behaviors have also been investigated. Parasitic droplets inherit all the capabilities of amoeboid robot, expanding their applicable scenarios such as reagent analysis, microchemical reactions, calculi removal, and drug-mediated thrombolysis. This microrobot may provide fundamental understanding of single-celled livings, and potential applications in biotechnology and biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Zhang
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Yuguo Deng
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Jinhao Zhao
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Tao Zhang
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, P. R. China
- National Center for International Joint Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, P. R. China
| | - Wenping Song
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, P. R. China
- Research center for intelligent equipment, Chongqing Research Institute of Harbin Institute of Technology, Chongqing, 400722, P. R. China
| | - Lin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, P. R. China
- Research center for intelligent equipment, Chongqing Research Institute of Harbin Institute of Technology, Chongqing, 400722, P. R. China
| | - Tianlong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, P. R. China
- Research center for intelligent equipment, Chongqing Research Institute of Harbin Institute of Technology, Chongqing, 400722, P. R. China
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12
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Yu L, Yang M, Guan J, Mou F. Ultrasmall Fe 2O 3 Tubular Nanomotors: The First Example of Swarming Photocatalytic Nanomotors Operating in High-Electrolyte Media. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:1370. [PMID: 37110955 PMCID: PMC10143400 DOI: 10.3390/nano13081370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Self-propelled chemical micro/nanomotors (MNMs) have demonstrated considerable potential in targeted drug delivery, (bio)sensing, and environmental remediation due to their autonomous nature and possible intelligent self-targeting behaviors (e.g., chemotaxis and phototaxis). However, these MNMs are commonly limited by their primary propulsion mechanisms of self-electrophoresis and electrolyte self-diffusiophoresis, making them prone to quenching in high electrolyte environments. Thus, the swarming behaviors of chemical MNMs in high-electrolyte media remain underexplored, despite their potential to enable the execution of complex tasks in high-electrolyte biological media or natural waters. In this study, we develop ultrasmall tubular nanomotors that exhibit ion-tolerant propulsions and collective behaviors. Upon vertical upward UV irradiation, the ultrasmall Fe2O3 tubular nanomotors (Fe2O3 TNMs) demonstrate positive superdiffusive photogravitaxis and can further self-organize into nanoclusters near the substrate in a reversible manner. After self-organization, the Fe2O3 TNMs exhibit a pronounced emergent behavior, allowing them to switch from random superdiffusions to ballistic motions near the substrate. Even at a high electrolyte concentration (Ce), the ultrasmall Fe2O3 TNMs retain a relatively thick electrical double layer (EDL) compared to their size, and the electroosmotic slip flow in their EDL is strong enough to propel them and induce phoretic interactions among them. As a result, the nanomotors can rapidly concentrate near the substrate and then gather into motile nanoclusters in high-electrolyte environments. This work opens a gate for designing swarming ion-tolerant chemical nanomotors and may expedite their applications in biomedicine and environmental remediation.
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