Encapsulation and Enhanced Release of Resveratrol from Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Melanoma Therapy

Dietary polyphenols for tumor therapy: bioactivities, nano-therapeutic systems and delivery strategies

Various dietary polyphenols have demonstrated potent anti-tumor properties and are being evaluated as potential adjuncts in cancer treatment. Although several reviews have offered extensive insights into the anti-tumor activities of dietary polyphenols, they frequently lack a detailed discussion on the design of therapeutic protocols and targeted delivery strategies of these compounds, which impedes the translation of their biological activity into clinical practice. This article aims to deliver a comprehensive review of the anti-tumor properties of dietary polyphenols, while also examining the design and implementation of nanotherapy systems based on these compounds. Additionally, given the challenges of low water solubility and stability of dietary polyphenols, this article outlines the current methodologies for the formulation and delivery of nano-preparations to enhance tumor targeting and therapeutic efficacy. This comprehensive review aspires to deepen our understanding of the operational mechanisms of dietary polyphenols and expand their clinical applications, thereby facilitating the development of polyphenol-based dietary supplements and food additives, and promoting the progress of dietary polyphenol-related nanomedicine.

Resveratrol-A Promising Therapeutic Agent with Problematic Properties

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol (stilbenoid), which can be found in grape skin, red wine, blueberries, peanuts and others. The biological properties of resveratrol, in particular antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, estrogenic, vasorelaxant and cardioprotective activity, are the main reason for its importance in medicine and pharmacy. Despite all of its advantages, however, there are many problems related to this polyphenolic substance, such as low stability, water insolubility, poor bioavailability and fast metabolism. For this reason, scientists are currently searching for different approaches to dealing with these problematic properties and improving the therapeutic usage of resveratrol. This review summarizes the mechanisms of the biological effects of resveratrol, determined in vitro and in vivo, and the main limitations of the drug. The article emphasizes new approaches for the improvement of resveratrol delivery, in particular nanoencapsulation, formation of nanocrystals, prodrugs and structure analogues.

Elevating Therapeutic Penetration: Innovations in Drug Delivery for Enhanced Permeation and Skin Cancer Management

Skin cancer stands as a challenging global health concern, necessitating innovative approaches to cure deficiencies within traditional therapeutic modalities. While conventional drug delivery methods through injection or oral administration have long prevailed, the emergence of topical drug administration presents a compelling alternative. The skin, aside from offering a swift and painless procedure, serves as a reservoir, maintaining drug efficacy over extended durations. This comprehensive review seeks to shed light on the potential of nanotechnology as a promising avenue for efficacious cancer treatment, with a particular emphasis on skin cancer. Additionally, it underscores the transdermal approach as a viable strategy for addressing various types of cancer. This work also explores into the delivery of peptides and proteins along with in-depth explanations of different delivery systems currently under investigation for localized skin cancer treatment. Furthermore, the review discusses the formidable challenges that must be surmounted before these innovations can find their way into clinical practice, offering a roadmap for future research and therapeutic development.

Natural compounds-based nanomedicines for cancer treatment: Future directions and challenges

Several efforts have been extensively accomplished for the amelioration of the cancer treatments using different types of new drugs and less invasives therapies in comparison with the traditional therapeutic modalities, which are widely associated with numerous drawbacks, such as drug resistance, non-selectivity and high costs, restraining their clinical response. The application of natural compounds for the prevention and treatment of different cancer cells has attracted significant attention from the pharmaceuticals and scientific communities over the past decades. Although the use of nanotechnology in cancer therapy is still in the preliminary stages, the application of nanotherapeutics has demonstrated to decrease the various limitations related to the use of natural compounds, such as physical/chemical instability, poor aqueous solubility, and low bioavailability. Despite the nanotechnology has emerged as a promise to improve the bioavailability of the natural compounds, there are still limited clinical trials performed for their application with various challenges required for the pre-clinical and clinical trials, such as production at an industrial level, assurance of nanotherapeutics long-term stability, physiological barriers and safety and regulatory issues. This review highlights the most recent advances in the nanocarriers for natural compounds secreted from plants, bacteria, fungi, and marine organisms, as well as their role on cell signaling pathways for anticancer treatments. Additionally, the clinical status and the main challenges regarding the natural compounds loaded in nanocarriers for clinical applications were also discussed.

Electrospraying as a Means of Loading Itraconazole into Mesoporous Silica for Enhanced Dissolution

Mesoporous silica particles (MSPs) have been investigated as potential carriers to increase the apparent solubility and dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drugs by physically stabilising the amorphous nature of the loaded drug. In preparing such systems, it is recognized that the loading method has a critical impact on the physical state and performance of the drug. To date, there has been very limited investigation into the use of electrospraying for loading drugs into mesoporous silica. In this study, we further explore the use of this approach, in particular as a means of producing amorphous and high drug-loaded MSPs; the study includes an investigation of the effect of drug loading and MSP concentration on the formulation performance and process. A comparison with rotary evaporation, a more widely utilised loading technique, was conducted to assess the relative effectiveness of electrospraying. The physical state of the drug in the formulations was assessed using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The drug release profiles were determined by a comparative in vitro drug release test. Electrospraying successfully produced formulations containing amorphous drug even at a high drug loading. In contrast, while itraconazole was present in amorphous form at the lower drug-loaded formulations produced by rotary evaporation, the drug was in the crystalline state at the higher loadings. The percentage of drug released was enhanced up to ten times compared to that of pure itraconazole for all the formulations apart from the highest loaded (crystalline) formulation prepared by rotary evaporation. Supersaturation for at least six hours was maintained by the formulations loaded with up to 30 mg/mL itraconazole produced by electrospraying. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate that electrospraying is capable of producing amorphous drug-loaded MSPs at high loadings, with associated favourable release characteristics. A comparison with the standard rotary evaporation approach indicates that electrospraying may be more effective for the production of higher loadings of amorphous material.

Exploring the molecular solvatochromism, stability, reactivity, and non-linear optical response of resveratrol

CONTEXT

This work analyzes the isomerization effects and solvent contributions to the stability, electronic excitations, reactivity, and non-linear optical properties (NLO) of resveratrol molecules within the formalism of the Density Functional Theory. The findings suggest that resveratrol solvatochromism is significantly influenced by solvent polarization. The electronic and free energies (E and G) indicate that trans is the most stable conformer. The system is classified as a strong nucleophile. However, the analysis of the Fukui functions and the Mulliken charges indicate that cis-trans isomerization jointly affects the reactive indices of the carbon and hydrogen atoms. The results also suggest that solvent is relevant to solvatochromism and the NLO response. Both cis and trans conformers present strong π - π ∗ excitations that undergo a visible hypsochromic change when the polarity of the solvent increases. Once the absorption spectra are connected to the first hyperpolarization ( β ) by the Oudar and Chemla relation, the hypsochromism of resveratrol is the reason for the drop in the generation of the second harmonic when the ambient polarity decreases. The CAM-B3LYP DFT results suggest that resveratrol is interesting for NLO applications. Depending on the choice of solvent, values ∼ 50 times those observed for urea ( β = 0.34 × 10 - 34 esu), which is a standard NLO material.

METHODS

The optimized geometries of cis and trans isomers of resveratrol in vacuum were obtained using Density Functional Theory (DFT) with the hybrid exchange-correlation function (CAM-B3LYP) and Pople basis set functions, specifically 6-311++G(d,p). The solvent effect on the geometries of both isomers was included using the polarizable continuum model (PCM) with the same level of QM calculation. Vibrational analysis was conducted to confirm that all optimized geometries correspond to the minimum energy. Various electronic properties, including dipole moments, molecular orbitals, transition energy, dipole polarizabilities, and global reactivity parameters, were calculated using both continuum and discrete solvation models based on the sequential QM/MM methodology. All QM calculations were performed with the Gaussian 09 program and the MC simulations with the DICE program. All NLO analysis was carried out using the Multiwfn code.

Nanocarriers for natural polyphenol senotherapeutics

Senescence is a heterogenous and dynamic process in which various cell types undergo cell-cycle arrest due to cellular stressors. While senescence has been implicated in aging and many human pathologies, therapeutic interventions remain inadequate due to the absence of a comprehensive set of biomarkers in a context-dependent manner. Polyphenols have been investigated as senotherapeutics in both preclinical and clinical settings. However, their use is hindered by limited stability, toxicity, modest bioavailability, and often inadequate concentration at target sites. To address these limitations, nanocarriers such as polymer nanoparticles and lipid vesicles can be utilized to enhance the efficacy of senolytic polyphenols. Focusing on widely studied senolytic agents-specifically fisetin, quercetin, and resveratrol-we provide concise summaries of their physical and chemical properties, along with an overview of preclinical and clinical findings. We also highlight common signaling pathways and potential toxicities associated with these agents. Addressing challenges linked to nanocarriers, we present examples of senotherapeutic delivery to various cell types, both with and without nanocarriers. Finally, continued research and development of senolytic agents and nanocarriers are encouraged to reduce the undesirable effects of senescence on different cell types and organs. This review underscores the need for establishing reliable sets of senescence biomarkers that could assist in evaluating the effectiveness of current and future senotherapeutic candidates and nanocarriers.

Exploring the multimodal health-promoting properties of resveratrol: A comprehensive review

Resveratrol, a natural polyphenol in various plants, has gained significant attention for its potential health-promoting properties. It has been demonstrated, after reviewing various clinical and in vitro studies, that resveratrol possesses potent antioxidant potential. Resveratrol demonstrates cellular component protection by directly neutralizing free radicals (FRs) and enhancing the expression of natural antioxidant enzymes, thereby mitigating oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Clinical trials have shown promising results, indicating that resveratrol supplementation can enhance antioxidant defenses and reduce oxidative damage markers in various populations. In addition to its antioxidant effects, resveratrol exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties. It can modulate key inflammatory pathways, such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), thereby suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Furthermore, resveratrol's multimodal effects extend beyond its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been discovered to exert regulatory effects on various cellular processes, including apoptosis, cell cycle progression, angiogenesis, and immunological responses. The primary aim of this review paper is to provide a thorough overview of the current knowledge on resveratrol, including its chemical composition, bioaccessibility, clinical effectiveness, and utilization in nanotechnology to enhance its bioavailability. From future perspectives, revising the administration methods for certain contexts and understanding the underlying systems responsible for resveratrol's effects will require further inquiry. For the highest potential health results, advanced trial-based research is necessary for combinational nano-delivery of resveratrol.

Resveratrol-Loaded Polydimethylsiloxane-Silica Hybrid Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Antitumoral Activity

In this work, hybrid materials within the polydimethylsiloxane-silica (PDMS-SiO2) system, synthesized via the sol-gel method, were developed and characterized for their potential to incorporate and release the bioactive compound resveratrol (RES). RES was incorporated into the materials with a high loading efficiency (>75%) using the rotary evaporator technique. This incorporation induced the amorphization of RES, resulting in enhanced solubility and in vitro release when compared to the free polyphenolic compound. The release profiles displayed pH dependence, exhibiting notably faster release at pH 5.2 compared to pH 7.4. The gradual release of RES over time demonstrated an initial time lag of approximately 4 h, being well described by the Weibull model. In vitro cytotoxicity studies were conducted on human osteosarcoma cells (MG-63), revealing a concentration-dependent decrease in cell viability for RES-loaded samples (for concentrations >50 µg mL-1).

Characteristics, antimicrobial capacity, and antioxidant potential of electrospun zein/polyvinyl alcohol nanofibers containing thymoquinone and electrosprayed resveratrol nanoparticles

The aim of the present study was to fabricate, characterize, and evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of zein/polyvinyl alcohol (ZN/PVA) nanofibers containing 2% and 4% of thymoquinone (TQ), either alone or in combination with electrosprayed ZN nanoparticles containing 1% and 2% of resveratrol (RS). According to scanning electron microscopy analysis, the diameter of nanofibers and nanoparticles increased with increasing TQ and RS concentrations, respectively. The molecular interaction between ZN or PVA polymers and TQ or RS was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the thermal stability of nanofibers did not change with the addition of TQ and RS. Moreover, incorporation of TQ in nanofibers along with RS nanoparticles increased their antibacterial and free radical scavenging activities based on broth dilution and DPPH methods, respectively (p ≤ .05). Escherichia coli O157:H7 (as a Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria) was more resistant to all treatments than Staphylococcus aureus (as a Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria). In addition, the combined use of TQ in nanofibers and RS nanoparticles had antagonistic antibacterial and synergistic antioxidant effects. The best results were obtained with ZN/PVA nanofiber containing 4% TQ and electrosprayed with 2% RS nanoparticles (p ≤ .05). According to the results of the present study, biodegradable ZN/PVA nanofiber containing TQ and electrosprayed with RS nanoparticles can be used as a novel active packaging material in the food industry.

Recent Developments in Nanoparticle Formulations for Resveratrol Encapsulation as an Anticancer Agent

Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound that has gained considerable attention in the past decade due to its multifaceted therapeutic potential, including anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. However, its anticancer efficacy is impeded by low water solubility, dose-limiting toxicity, low bioavailability, and rapid hepatic metabolism. To overcome these hurdles, various nanoparticles such as organic and inorganic nanoparticles, liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, solid lipid nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, zinc oxide nanoparticles, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks, carbon nanotubes, bioactive glass nanoparticles, and mesoporous nanoparticles were employed to deliver resveratrol, enhancing its water solubility, bioavailability, and efficacy against various types of cancer. Resveratrol-loaded nanoparticle or resveratrol-conjugated nanoparticle administration exhibits excellent anticancer potency compared to free resveratrol. This review highlights the latest developments in nanoparticle-based delivery systems for resveratrol, focusing on the potential to overcome limitations associated with the compound's bioavailability and therapeutic effectiveness.

Effective transport of aggregated hypericin encapsulated in SBA-15 nanoporous silica particles for photodynamic therapy of cancer cells

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) represents an interesting modality for the elimination of damaged biomaterials and cells. This treatment takes advantage of the photosensitizing properties of molecules that are active only when irradiated with light. In the present work, a dual property of hypericin, a hydrophobic molecule with high performance in photodiagnostics and photodynamic therapy, was exploited. The non-fluorescent and photodynamically inactive form of hypericin aggregates was loaded into the nanopores of SBA-15 silica particles. The synthesized particles were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, differential thermal analysis, small-angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy. Hypericin aggregates were confirmed by absorption spectra typical of aggregated hypericin and by its short fluorescence lifetime. Release of hypericin from the particles was observed toward serum proteins, mimicking physiological conditions. Temperature- and time-dependent uptake of hypericin by cancer cells showed gradual release of hypericin from the particles and active cellular transport by endocytosis. A closer examination of SBA-15-hypericin uptake by fluorescence lifetime imaging showed that aggregated hypericin molecules, characterized by a short fluorescence lifetime (∼4 ns), were still present in the SBA-15 particles upon uptake by cells. However, monomerization of hypericin in cancer cells was observed by extending the hypericin fluorescence lifetime by ∼8 ns, preferentially in lipid compartments and the plasma membrane. This suggests a promising prognosis for delayed biological activity of the entire cargo, which was confirmed by effective PDT in vitro. In summary, this work presents an approach for safe, inactive delivery of hypericin that is activated at the target site in cells and tissues.

Nanoparticle-Based Treatment Approaches for Skin Cancer: A Systematic Review

Nanoparticles have shown marked promise as both antineoplastic agents and drug carriers. Despite strides made in immunomodulation, low success rates and toxicity remain limitations within the clinical oncology setting. In the present review, we assess advances in drug delivery nanoparticles, for systemic and topical use, in skin cancer treatment. A systematic review of controlled trials, meta-analyses, and Cochrane review articles was conducted. Eligibility criteria included: (1) a primary focus on nanoparticle utility for skin cancer; (2) available metrics on prevention and treatment outcomes; (3) detailed subject population; (4) English language; (5) archived as full-text journal articles. A total of 43 articles were selected for review. Qualitative analysis revealed that nanoscale systems demonstrate significant antineoplastic and anti-metastasis properties: increased drug bioavailability, reduced toxicity, enhanced permeability and retention effect, as well as tumor growth inhibition, among others. Nanoformulations for skin cancers have largely lagged behind those tested in other cancers-several of which have commercialized formulae. However, emerging evidence has indicated a powerful role for these carriers in targeting primary and metastatic skin cancers.

Recent Progress in Nanotechnology Improving the Therapeutic Potential of Polyphenols for Cancer

Polyphenols derived from fruits, vegetables, and plants are bioactive compounds potentially beneficial to human health. Notably, compounds such as quercetin, curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), and resveratrol have been highlighted as antiproliferative agents for cancer. Due to their low solubility and limited bioavailability, some alternative nanotechnologies have been applied to encapsulate these compounds, aiming to improve their efficacy against cancer. In this comprehensive review, we evaluate the main nanotechnology approaches to improve the therapeutic potential of polyphenols against cancer using in vitro studies and in vivo preclinical models, highlighting recent advancements in the field. It was found that polymeric nanomaterials, lipid-based nanomaterials, inorganic nanomaterials, and carbon-based nanomaterials are the most used classes of nanocarriers for encapsulating polyphenols. These delivery systems exhibit enhanced antitumor activity and pro-apoptotic effects, particularly against breast, lung, prostate, cervical, and colorectal cancer cells, surpassing the performance of free bioactive compounds. Preclinical trials in xenograft animal models have revealed decreased tumor growth after treatment with polyphenol-loaded delivery systems. Moreover, the interaction of polyphenol co-delivery systems and polyphenol-drug delivery systems is a promising approach to increase anticancer activity and decrease chemotherapy side effects. These innovative approaches hold significant implications for the advancement of clinical cancer research.

Morin Hydrate Encapsulation and Release from Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Melanoma Therapy

Melanoma incidence, a type of skin cancer, has been increasing worldwide. There is a strong need to develop new therapeutic strategies to improve melanoma treatment. Morin is a bioflavonoid with the potential for use in the treatment of cancer, including melanoma. However, therapeutic applications of morin are restrained owing to its low aqueous solubility and limited bioavailability. This work investigates morin hydrate (MH) encapsulation in mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) to enhance morin bioavailability and consequently increase the antitumor effects in melanoma cells. Spheroidal MSNs with a mean size of 56.3 ± 6.5 nm and a specific surface area of 816 m²/g were synthesized. MH was successfully loaded (MH-MSN) using the evaporation method, with a loading capacity of 28.3% and loading efficiency of 99.1%. In vitro release studies showed that morin release from MH-MSNs was enhanced at pH 5.2, indicating increased flavonoid solubility. The in vitro cytotoxicity of MH and MH-MSNs on human A375, MNT-1 and SK-MEL-28 melanoma cell lines was investigated. Exposure to MSNs did not affect the cell viability of any of the cell lines tested, suggesting that the nanoparticles are biocompatible. The effect of MH and MH-MSNs on reducing cell viability was time- and concentration-dependent in all melanoma cell lines. The A375 and SK-MEL-28 cell lines were slightly more sensitive than MNT-1 cells in both the MH and MH-MSN treatments. Our findings suggest that MH-MSNs are a promising delivery system for the treatment of melanoma.

High resveratrol-loaded microcapsules with trehalose and OSA starch as the wall materials: Fabrication, characterization, and evaluation

To improve the solubility and stability of resveratrol (Res), Res nanocrystals (Res-ncs) as the capsule core were prepared by wet milling using hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC_E5), sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP_K30) as stabilizers, along with trehalose and octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) modified starch were used as the wall material to produce Res microcapsules (Res-mcs) via spray drying. The fresh-prepared Res-ncs and rehydrated Res-mcs had mean particle sizes of 190.30 ± 3.43 and 204.70 ± 3.60 nm, zeta potentials of -13.90 ± 0.28 and - 11.20 ± 0.34 mV, and the loading capacities (LC) were as high as 73.03 % and 28.83 %. Particle morphology showed that Res-mcs had more regular and smooth spherical structures. FTIR indicated that Res may have hydrogen bonding with the walls. XRD and DSC exhibited that Res in nanocrystals and microcapsules existed mostly as amorphous structures. The solubility of Res-mcs and Res-ncs was increased, with excellent redispersibility and rapid dissolution of Res in vitro. The antioxidant properties of Res-mcs were protected and improved. With the walls acting as a physical barrier, Res-mcs have better photothermal stability than raw Res. Res-mcs have a relative bioavailability of 171.25 %, which is higher than that of raw Res.

Non-ionic surfactant-assisted controlled release of oxyresveratrol on dendritic fibrous silica for topical applications

We present a simple and eco-friendly method for controlled drug release using a surfactant-assisted method. Oxyresveratrol (ORES) was co-loaded with a non-ionic surfactant onto KCC-1, a dendritic fibrous silica, using an ethanol evaporation technique. The carriers were characterized using FE-SEM, TEM, XRD, N₂ adsorption-desorption, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy, and the loading and encapsulation efficiencies were assessed using TGA and DSC techniques. Contact angle and zeta potential were used to determine the surfactant arrangement and the particle charges. To investigate the effects of different surfactants (Tween 20, Tween 40, Tween 80, Tween 85, and Span 80) on ORES release, we conducted experiments under different pH and temperature conditions. Results showed that the types of surfactants, drug loading content, pH, and temperature significantly affected the drug release profile. The percentage of drug loading efficiency of the carriers was in the range of 80 %-100 %, and the release of ORES was in the order of M/KCC-1 > M/K/S80 > M/K/T40 > M/K/T20 > MK/T80 > M/K/T85 at 24 h. Furthermore, the carriers provided excellent protection for ORES against UVA and maintained its antioxidant activity. KCC-1 and Span 80 enhanced the cytotoxicity to HaCaT cells, while Tween 80 suppressed the cytotoxicity.

Phytochemical-based nanodrugs going beyond the state-of-the-art in cancer management-Targeting cancer stem cells in the framework of predictive, preventive, personalized medicine

Cancer causes many deaths worldwide each year, especially due to tumor heterogeneity leading to disease progression and treatment failure. Targeted treatment of heterogeneous population of cells - cancer stem cells is still an issue in protecting affected individuals against associated multidrug resistance and disease progression. Nanotherapeutic agents have the potential to go beyond state-of-the-art approaches in overall cancer management. Specially assembled nanoparticles act as carriers for targeted drug delivery. Several nanodrugs have already been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating different cancer types. Phytochemicals isolated from plants demonstrate considerable potential for nanomedical applications in oncology thanks to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and other health benefits. Phytochemical-based NPs can enhance anticancer therapeutic effects, improve cellular uptake of therapeutic agents, and mitigate the side effects of toxic anticancer treatments. Per evidence, phytochemical-based NPs can specifically target CSCs decreasing risks of tumor relapse and metastatic disease manifestation. Therefore, this review focuses on current outlook of phytochemical-based NPs and their potential targeting CSCs in cancer research studies and their consideration in the framework of predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (3PM).

Synthesis of Hollow Mesoporous Silica Nanospheroids with O/W Emulsion and Al(III) Incorporation and Its Catalytic Activity for the Synthesis of 5-HMF from Carbohydrates

Controlling the particle size as well as porosity and shape of silica nanoparticles is always a big challenge while tuning their properties. Here, we designed a cost-effective, novel, green synthetic method for the preparation of perforated hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (PHMS-1) using a very minute amount of cationic surfactant in o/w-type (castor oil in water) emulsion at room temperature. The grafting of Al(III) through post-synthetic modification onto this silica framework (PHMS-2, Si/Al ~20 atomic percentage) makes this a very efficient solid acid catalyst for the conversion of monosaccharides to 5-HMF. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area for the pure silica and Al-doped mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) were found to be 866 and 660 m2g−1, respectively. Powder XRD, BET and TEM images confirm the mesoporosity of these materials. Again, the perforated hollow morphology was investigated using scanning electron microscopic analysis. Al-doped hollow MSNs were tested for acid catalytic-biomass conversion reactions. Our results show that PHMS-2 has much higher catalytic efficiency than contemporary aluminosilicate frameworks (83.7% of 5-HMF yield in 25 min at 160 °C for fructose under microwave irradiation).

Targeted delivery and apoptosis induction activity of peptide-transferrin targeted mesoporous silica encapsulated resveratrol in MCF-7 cells

OBJECTIVES

Resveratrol (Res) was a naturally occurring polyphenol compound. It has various beneficial effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-cancer effects. However, the anti-cancer activity was hindered by its low targeting and drug release performance. Thus, we synthesized transferrin-cathepsin B cleavable peptide modified mesoporous silica nanoparticle encapsulated Res (Tf-Res-MSN).

METHODS

Res was encapsulated in mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN), which was a kind of drug carrier complex. Tf was modified to recognize the cancer cells. Cathepsin B cleavable peptide (Pep) was used to combine Res-MSN complex and Tf to construct the final product. Pep was used as linker and trigger for Res release.

KEY FINDINGS

The smart nanocarriers were increased the drug release performance of Res in human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells. The physicochemical properties of Tf-Res-MSN were assessed by zeta potential, UV-Prove, diffraction scanning calorimetry (DSC), nitrogen physisorption analysis and transmission electron microscope (TEM). MTT assay, AO and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining were performed to explore the anti-tumour activity of Tf-Res-MSN. The results showed that Tf-Res-MSN significantly decreased cell viability and increased cell apoptosis. The inhibition rate and apoptotic rate of Tf-Res-MSN in MCF-7 cells were 95.75% and 80.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that Tf-Res-MSN was a valuable technique with potential value in breast cancer applications.

Advancements in nanoparticle-based treatment approaches for skin cancer therapy

Skin cancer has emerged as the fifth most commonly reported cancer in the world, causing a burden on global health and the economy. The enormously rising environmental changes, industrialization, and genetic modification have further exacerbated skin cancer statistics. Current treatment modalities such as surgery, radiotherapy, conventional chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are facing several issues related to cost, toxicity, and bioavailability thereby leading to declined anti-skin cancer therapeutic efficacy and poor patient compliance. In the context of overcoming this limitation, several nanotechnological advancements have been witnessed so far. Among various nanomaterials, nanoparticles have endowed exorbitant advantages by acting as both therapeutic agents and drug carriers for the remarkable treatment of skin cancer. The small size and large surface area to volume ratio of nanoparticles escalate the skin tumor uptake through their leaky vasculature resulting in enhanced therapeutic efficacy. In this context, the present review provides up to date information about different types and pathology of skin cancer, followed by their current treatment modalities and associated drawbacks. Furthermore, it meticulously discusses the role of numerous inorganic, polymer, and lipid-based nanoparticles in skin cancer therapy with subsequent descriptions of their patents and clinical trials.

Silica-Based Nanomaterials for Diabetes Mellitus Treatment

Diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disease with an alarming global prevalence, is associated with several serious health threats, including cardiovascular diseases. Current diabetes treatments have several limitations and disadvantages, creating the need for new effective formulations to combat this disease and its associated complications. This motivated the development of therapeutic strategies to overcome some of these limitations, such as low therapeutic drug bioavailability or poor compliance of patients with current therapeutic methodologies. Taking advantage of silica nanoparticle characteristics such as tuneable particle and pore size, surface chemistry and biocompatibility, silica-based nanocarriers have been developed with the potential to treat diabetes and regulate blood glucose concentration. This review discusses the main topics in the field, such as oral administration of insulin, glucose-responsive devices and innovative administration routes.

Drug Delivery Systems and Flavonoids: Current Knowledge in Melanoma Treatment and Future Perspectives

Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer with a high prevalence in the population. An early diagnosis is crucial to cure this disease. Still, when this is not possible, combining potent pharmacological agents and effective drug delivery systems is essential to achieve optimal treatment and improve patients' quality of life. Nanotechnology application in biomedical sciences to encapsulate anticancer drugs, including flavonoids, in order to enhance therapeutic efficacy has attracted particular interest. Flavonoids have shown effectiveness against various types of cancers including in melanoma, but they show low aqueous solubility, low stability and very poor oral bioavailability. The utilization of novel drug delivery systems could increase flavonoid bioavailability, thereby potentiating its antitumor effects in melanoma. This review summarizes the potential of different flavonoids in melanoma treatment and the several nanosystems used to improve their biological activity, considering published information that reported improved biological and pharmacological properties of encapsulated flavonoids.

Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Loaded with Resveratrol Are Used for Targeted Breast Cancer Therapy

Objective

The characteristics of poor pharmacokinetics, stability, and low solubility seriously limited the clinical application of resveratrol (Res) in breast cancer. Thus, this study intends to develop a delivery system for Res which could be better used in breast cancer therapy.

Methods

Resveratrol-modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN-Res) were chemically constructed. Their shape and encapsulation were detected by transmission electron microscope, Fourier transforms infrared spectrometer, and UV spectroscopy, respectively. MGF-7 tumor-bearing mice were established by subcutaneous injection, and the pathological changes were detected by hematoxylin-eosin staining. CCK-8 and Ki-67 immunohistochemical staining were used for proliferation evaluation in vitro and in vivo. Flow cytometry, TUNEL, wound healing, and transwell assay detected cell apoptosis, invasion, and migration.

Results

MSN-Res was successfully prepared with high biosafety. MSN-Res inhibited MGF-7 cell proliferation, invasion, and migration and promoted apoptosis in vitro. Furthermore, MSN-Res showed better performance compared Res in breast cancer mouse models. In addition, we found that MSN-Res inhibited tumor growth via inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Conclusion

MSN-Res inhibited breast cancer progression with better efficacy compared with Res treatment alone by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway, suggesting that MSN-Res is a more effective adjuvant treatment method for breast cancer. Thus, our findings may provide a new and safer means of using phytochemicals in combinatorial therapy of breast cancer.

Nano-delivery systems for food bioactive compounds in cancer: prevention, therapy, and clinical applications

Bioactive compounds represent a broad class of dietary metabolites derived from fruits and vegetables, such as polyphenols, carotenoids and glucosinolates with potential for cancer prevention. Curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, and β-carotene have been the most widely applied bioactive compounds in chemoprevention. Lately, many approaches to encapsulating bioactive components in nano-delivery systems have improved biomolecules' stability and targeted delivery. In this review, we critically analyze nano-delivery systems for bioactive compounds, including polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), liposomes, niosomes, and nanoemulsions (NEs) for potential use in cancer therapy. Efficacy studies of the nanoformulations using cancer cell lines and in vivo models and updated human clinical trials are also discussed. Nano-delivery systems were found to improve the therapeutic efficacy of bioactive molecules against various types of cancer (e.g., breast, prostate, colorectal and lung cancer) mainly due to the antiproliferation and pro-apoptotic effects of tumor cells. Furthermore, some bioactive compounds have promised combination therapy with standard chemotherapeutic agents, with increased tumor efficiency and fewer side effects. These opportunities were identified and developed to ensure more excellent safety and efficacy of novel herbal medicines enabling novel insights for designing nano-delivery systems for bioactive compounds applied in clinical cancer therapy.

Recent advances in nanotechnology based combination drug therapy for skin cancer

Skin-cancer (SC) is more common than all other cancers affecting large percentage of the population in the world and is increasing in terms of morbidity and mortality. In the United States, 3million people are affected by SC annually whereas millions of people are affected globally. Melanoma is fifth most common cancer in the United States. SC is commonly occurred in white people as per WHO. SC is divided into two groups, i.e. melanoma and non-melanoma. In the previous two decades, management of cancer remains to be a tough and a challenging task for many scholars. Presently, the treatment protocols are mostly based on surgery and chemo-radiation therapy, which sooner or later harm the unaffected cells too. To reduce these limitations, nano scaled materials and its extensive range may be recognized as the probable carriers for the selective drug delivery in response to cancerous cells. Recently, the nanocarriers based drugs and their combinations were found to be a new and interesting approach of study for the management of skin carcinoma to enhance the effectiveness, to lessen the dose-dependent side effects and to avoid the drug resistance. This review may emphasize on the wide-range of information on nanotechnology-based drugs and their combination with physical techniques.

Anti-blastocystosis activity of antioxidant coated ZIF-8 combined with mesoporous silicas MCM-41 and KIT-6

The biocompatible hybrid Zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8)/structured silica nanocomposite can be loaded with antioxidants such as curcumin and resveratrol to offer multiple advantages of drug functionalization and structural stability. blastocystosis, an enteric parasite, has various outcomes and its treatment includes drugs which have side effects and do not result in a full cure. We aimed to design novel biocompatible nanocomposites containing natural antioxidant, resveratrol or curcumin and ZIF-8/mesoporous silica. We also assessed their anti-blastocystosis activities as bioactive novel nanocomposites. The nano-silica (MCM-41 and KIT-6) was synthesized using a hydrothermal technique and made composite with ZIF-8 using an ultrasonic technique. The antioxidants, curcumin and resveratrol, were loaded over ZIF-8/MCM-41 and ZIF-8/KIT-6 using a rotary evaporator technique to form novel nanocomposites with bioactive properties. The formulated nanocomposites were characterized. To test their biological activity, suspension of cultured blastocystosis cysts (subtype 3) were exposed to increasing concentrations of nanocomposites and the minimal lethal concentration of each nanocomposite was calculated. The bioactive nanocomposites (ZIF-8/KIT-6, ZIF-8/KIT-6/Resveratrol and ZIF-8/MCM-41/Curcumin) were formulated. Anti-blastocystosis activity of the tested nanocomposites was both dose and time dependent. ZIF-8/KIT-6/Resveratol showed the maximum percentage of growth inhibition (~ 100%) at a concentration of 500 µg/ml after 5 h of exposure. More than 90% of blastocystosis cysts’ growth was significantly inhibited at all concentrations of ZIF-8/MCM-41/Curcumin, with different times of exposure, while it occurred only at the highest concentration of ZIF-8/KIT-6 (800 µg/ml). Using cheap, simple, reproducible and scalable techniques, we nano-formulated innovative bioactive nanocomposites, by incorporating the bioactive ZIF-8 (Zn²⁺ with imidazole), structured mesosilica and natural antioxidant compounds, curcumin or resveratrol, to generate multifunctional modalities. These eco-friendly, naturally based, safe, economical, biocompatible, and bioavailable nanocomposites are potential nanotherapeutics. The anti-blastocystosis results of these three nanocomposites indicate their potentially promising innovative and safe use as alternative Blastocystosis therapies.

Emerging Trends in the Delivery of Resveratrol by Nanostructures: Applications of Nanotechnology in Life Sciences

Resveratrol (RES) is a stilbene group of natural polyphenolic compounds in trees, peanuts, and grapes. RES is revealed with anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective effects. Though it is proven with prominent therapeutic activity, low aqueous solubility, poor bioavailability, and short half-life had hindered its use to exploit the potential. Also, the first-pass metabolism and undergoing enterohepatic recirculation are obscure in the minds of researchers for their in vitro studies. Many approaches have been investigated and shown promising results in manipulating their physicochemical properties to break this barrier. Nanocarriers are one of them to reduce the first-pass metabolism and to overcome other hurdles. This article reviews and highlights such encapsulation technologies. Nanoencapsulated RES improves in vitro antioxidant effect, and this review also highlights the new strategies and the concept behind how resveratrol can be handled and implemented with better therapeutic efficacy.

Resveratrol Encapsulation and Release from Pristine and Functionalized Mesoporous Silica Carriers

Resveratrol, a naturally occurring polyphenol, has attracted significant attention due to its antioxidant, cardioprotective and anticancer potential. However, its low aqueous solubility limits resveratrol bioavailability and use. In this work, different mesoporous silica matrices were used to encapsulate the polyphenol and to increase its dissolution rate. Pristine MCM-41, MCM-48, SBA-15, SBA-16, FDU-12 and MCF silica were obtained. The influence of SBA-15 functionalized with aminopropyl, isocyanate, phenyl, mercaptopropyl, and propionic acid moieties on resveratrol loading and release profiles was also assessed. The cytotoxic effects were evaluated for mesoporous carriers and resveratrol-loaded samples against human lung cancer (A549), breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) and human skin fibroblast (HSF) cell lines. The effect on apoptosis and cell cycle were assayed for selected resveratrol-loaded carriers. The polyphenol molecules are encapsulated only inside the mesopores, mostly in amorphous state. All materials containing either pristine or functionalized silica carriers increased polyphenol dissolution rate. The influence of the physico-chemical properties of the mesoporous carriers and resveratrol–loaded supports on the kinetic parameters was identified. Resv@SBA-15-SH and Resv@SBA-15-NCO samples exhibited the highest anticancer effect against A549 cells (IC50 values were 26.06 and 36.5 µg/mL, respectively) and against MDA-MB-231 (IC50 values were 35.56 and 19.30 µg/mL, respectively), which highlights their potential use against cancer.

Preparation of Cationic Amphiphilic Nanoparticles with Modified Chitosan Derivatives for Doxorubicin Delivery

Polymeric micelle-like nanoparticles have demonstrated effectiveness for the delivery of some poorly soluble or hydrophobic anticancer drugs. In this study, a hydrophobic moiety, deoxycholic acid (DCA) was first bonded on a polysaccharide, chitosan (CS), for the preparation of amphiphilic chitosan (CS-DCA), which was further modified with a cationic glycidyltrimethylammounium chloride (GTMAC) to form a novel soluble chitosan derivative (HT-CS-DCA). The cationic amphiphilic HT-CS-DCA was easily self-assembled to micelle-like nanoparticles about 200 nm with narrow size distribution (PDI 0.08–0.18). The zeta potential of nanoparticles was in the range of 14 to 24 mV, indicating higher positive charges. Then, doxorubicin (DOX), an anticancer drug with poor solubility, was entrapped into HT-CS-DCA nanoparticles. The DOX release test was performed in PBS (pH 7.4) at 37 °C, and the results showed that there was no significant burst release in the first two hours, and the cumulative release increased steadily and slowly in the following hours. HT-CS-DCA nanoparticles loaded with DOX could easily enter into MCF-7 cells, as observed by a confocal microscope. As a result, DOX-loaded HT-CS-DCA nanoparticles demonstrated a significant inhibition activity on MCF-7 growth without obvious cellular toxicity in comparison with blank nanoparticles. Therefore, the anticancer efficacy of these cationic HT-CS-DCA nanoparticles showed great promise for the delivery of DOX in cancer therapy.

Advanced nanomedicine approaches applied for treatment of skin carcinoma

Skin-cancer is the commonest malignancy affecting huge proportion of the population, reaching heights in terms of morbidity. The treatment strategies are presently focusing on surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, which eventually cause destruction to unaffected cells. To overcome this limitation, wide range of nanoscaled materials have been recognized as potential carriers for delivering selective response to cancerous cells and neoplasms. Nanotechnological approach has been tremendously exploited in several areas, owing to their functional nanometric dimensions. The alarming incidence of skin cancer engenders burdensome effects worldwide, which is further awakening innovational medicinal approaches, accompanying target specific drug delivery tools for coveted benefits to provide reduced toxicity and tackle proliferative episodes of skin cancer. The developed nanosystems for anti-cancer agents include liposomes, ethosomes, nanofibers, solid lipid nanoparticles and metallic nanoparticles, which exhibit pronounced outcomes for skin carcinoma. In this review, skin cancer with its sub-types is explained in nutshell, followed by compendium of specific nanotechnological tools presented, in addition to therapeutic applications of drug-loaded nano systems for skin cancer.

Innovative Delivery Systems Loaded with Plant Bioactive Ingredients: Formulation Approaches and Applications

Plants constitute a rich source of diverse classes of valuable phytochemicals (e.g., phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids) with proven biological activity (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, etc.). However, factors such as low stability, poor solubility and bioavailability limit their food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical applications. In this regard, a wide range of delivery systems have been developed to increase the stability of plant-derived bioactive compounds upon processing, storage or under gastrointestinal digestion conditions, to enhance their solubility, to mask undesirable flavors as well as to efficiently deliver them to the target tissues where they can exert their biological activity and promote human health. In the present review, the latest advances regarding the design of innovative delivery systems for pure plant bioactive compounds, extracts or essential oils, in order to overcome the above-mentioned challenges, are presented. Moreover, a broad spectrum of applications along with future trends are critically discussed.