Photodynamic Therapy of Ovarian Carcinoma Cells with Curcumin-Loaded Biodegradable Polymeric Nanoparticles

An innovative approach to detect circulating tumor cells

In cancer research, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) were identified as the main drivers of metastasis. They are vital for early detection and prevention of metastasis during cancer treatment. Even though continuous progress in research offers more and more tools to combat cancer, we still lack a proper arsenal of therapeutics. Especially in tumors with close to no targeting options, like triple-negative breast cancer, early detection is often the main difference between successful and failed therapy. When such tumors are detected too late, they may have already produced plenty of CTCs, likely causing metastasis, which is the primary reason for tumor-associated deaths. Detecting those CTCs early on could substantially impact therapy outcomes and the 5-year survival rate. In our study, we developed and evaluated a reliable and affordable CTC screening method based on flow cytometry and 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) staining. We successfully established a circulation model for 5-ALA and CTCs research and demonstrated that the method can detect an average of 11 ± 3.3 CTCs out of 10,000 peripheral blood mononuclear cells, representing as low as approximately 0.1 % with a reasonable number of false positive events. Additionally, we present initial results on a theranostic approach using 5-ALA converted to protoporphyrin IX. The outcomes of this study might contribute significantly to the further development of CTC detection and the overall detection and treatment of cancer.

Advancements in curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticle delivery systems: progressive strategies in cancer therapy

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, and imposes a substantial socioeconomic burden with little impact especially on aggressive types of cancer. Conventional therapies have many serious side effects including generalised systemic toxicity which limits their long-term use. Tumour resistance and recurrence is another main problem associated with conventional therapy. Purified or extracted natural products have been investigated as cost-effective cancer chemoprotective agents with the potential to reverse or delaying carcinogenesis. Curcumin (CUR) as a natural polyphenolic component, exhibits many pharmacological activities such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, activity against neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer, antidiabetic activities (type II diabetes), anticoagulant properties, wound healing effects in both preclinical and clinical studies. Despite these effective protective properties, CUR has several limitations, including poor aqueous solubility, low bioavailability, chemical instability, rapid metabolism and a short half-life time. To overcome the pharmaceutical problems associated with free CUR, novel nanomedicine strategies (including polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) such as poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) NPs have been developed. These formulations have the potential to improve the therapeutic efficacy of curcuminoids. In this review, we comprehensively summarise and discuss recent in vitro and in vivo studies to explore the pharmaceutical significance and clinical benefits of PLGA-NPs delivery system to improve the efficacy of CUR in the treatment of cancer.

Current development of theragnostic nanoparticles for women's cancer treatment

In the biomedical industry, nanoparticles (NPs-exclusively small particles with size ranging from 1-100 nanometres) are recently employed as powerful tools due to their huge potential in sophisticated and enhanced cancer theragnostic (i.e. therapeutics and diagnostics). Cancer is a life-threatening disease caused by carcinogenic agents and mutation in cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and harming the body's normal functioning while affecting several factors like low levels of reactive oxygen species, hyperactive antiapoptotic mRNA expression, reduced proapoptotic mRNA expression, damaged DNA repair, and so on. NPs are extensively used in early cancer diagnosis and are functionalized to target receptors overexpressing cancer cells for effective cancer treatment. This review focuses explicitly on how NPs alone and combined with imaging techniques and advanced treatment techniques have been researched against 'women's cancer' such as breast, ovarian, and cervical cancer which are substantially occurring in women. NPs, in combination with numerous imaging techniques (like PET, SPECT, MRI, etc) have been widely explored for cancer imaging and understanding tumor characteristics. Moreover, NPs in combination with various advanced cancer therapeutics (like magnetic hyperthermia, pH responsiveness, photothermal therapy, etc), have been stated to be more targeted and effective therapeutic strategies with negligible side effects. Furthermore, this review will further help to improve treatment outcomes and patient quality of life based on the theragnostic application-based studies of NPs in women's cancer treatment.

In vitro and in ovo photodynamic efficacy of nebulized curcumin-loaded tetraether lipid liposomes prepared by DC as stable drug delivery system

Lung cancer is one of the most common causes of high mortality worldwide. Current treatment strategies, e.g., surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, insufficiently affect the overall outcome. In this study, we used curcumin as a natural photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy and encapsulated it in liposomes consisting of stabilizing tetraether lipids aiming for a pulmonary drug delivery system against lung cancer. The liposomes with either hydrolyzed glycerol-dialkyl-glycerol tetraether (hGDGT) in different ratios or hydrolyzed glycerol-dialkyl-nonitol tetraether (hGDNT) were prepared by dual centrifugation (DC), an innovative method for liposome preparation. The liposomes' physicochemical characteristics before and after nebulization and other nebulization characteristics confirmed their suitability. Morphological characterization using atomic force and transmission electron microscopy showed proper vesicular structures indicative of liposomes. Qualitative and quantitative uptake of the curcumin-loaded liposomes in lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cells was visualized and proven. Phototoxic effects of the liposomes were detected on A549 cells, showing decreased cell viability. The generation of reactive oxygen species required for PDT and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential were confirmed. Moreover, the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model was used to further evaluate biocompatibility and photodynamic efficacy in a 3D cell culture context. Photodynamic efficacy was assessed by PET/CT after nebulization of the liposomes onto the xenografted tumors on the CAM with subsequent irradiation. The physicochemical properties and the efficacy of tetraether lipid liposomes encapsulating curcumin, especially liposomes containing hGDNT, in 2D and 3D cell cultures seem promising for future PDT usage against lung cancer.

Evaluating the photodynamic efficacy of nebulized curcumin-loaded liposomes prepared by thin-film hydration and dual centrifugation: In vitro and in ovo studies

Lung cancer, one of the most common causes of high mortality worldwide, still lacks appropriate and convenient treatment options. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has shown promising results against cancer, especially in recent years. However, pulmonary drug delivery of the predominantly hydrophobic photosensitizers still represents a significant obstacle. Nebulizing DPPC/Cholesterol liposomes loaded with the photosensitizer curcumin via a vibrating mesh nebulizer might overcome current restrictions. In this study, the liposomes were prepared by conventional thin-film hydration and two other methods based on dual centrifugation. The liposomes' physicochemical properties were determined before and after nebulization, showing that liposomes do not undergo any changes. However, morphological characterization of the differently prepared liposomes revealed structural differences between the methods in terms of lamellarity. Internalization of curcumin in lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cells was visualized and quantified. The generation of reactive oxygen species because of the photoreaction was also proven. The photodynamic efficacy of the liposomal formulations was tested against A549 cells. They revealed different phototoxic responses at different radiant exposures. Furthermore, the photodynamic efficacy was investigated after nebulizing curcumin-loaded liposomes onto xenografted tumors on the CAM, followed by irradiation, and evaluated using positron emission tomography/computed tomography and histological analysis. A decrease in tumor metabolism could be observed. Based on the efficacy of curcumin-loaded liposomes in 2D and 3D models, liposomes, especially with prior film formation, can be considered a promising approach for PDT against lung cancer.

The Nanotech Potential of Curcumin in Pharmaceuticals: An Overview

It is safe to use Curcumin as a cosmetic and therapeutic ingredient in pharmaceutical products. For the uses mentioned above and for fundamental research, it is essential to obtain pure Curcumin from plant sources. There is a requirement for effective extraction and purification techniques that adhere to green chemistry standards for efficiency improvement, process safety, and environmental friendliness. Several outstanding studies have looked into the extraction and purification of Curcumin. This review thoroughly covers the currently available curcumin extraction, synthesis, and transformation techniques. Additionally, Curcumin's poor solubility and low absorption in the human body have limited its potential for pharmaceutical use. However, recent developments in novel curcumin formulations utilizing nanotechnology delivery methods have provided new approaches to transport and maximize the human body's curcumin absorption efficiency. In this review, we explore the various curcumin nanoformulations and the potential medicinal uses of nano curcumin. Additionally, we review the necessary future research directions to recommend Curcumin as an excellent therapeutic candidate.

Recent Innovations of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Combined with Photodynamic Therapy for Improving Cancer Treatment

Cancer is a global health burden and is one of the leading causes of death. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is considered an alternative approach to conventional cancer treatment. PDT utilizes a light-sensitive compound, photosensitizers (PSs), light irradiation, and molecular oxygen (O2). This generates cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can trigger necrosis and/ or apoptosis, leading to cancer cell death in the intended tissues. Classical photosensitizers impose limitations that hinder their clinical applications, such as long-term skin photosensitivity, hydrophobic nature, nonspecific targeting, and toxic cumulative effects. Thus, nanotechnology emerged as an unorthodox solution for improving the hydrophilicity and targeting efficiency of PSs. Among nanocarriers, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have gained increasing attention due to their high surface area, defined pore size and structure, ease of surface modification, stable aqueous dispersions, good biocompatibility, and optical transparency, which are vital for PDT. The advancement of integrated MSNs/PDT has led to an inspiring multimodal nanosystem for effectively treating malignancies. This review gives an overview of the main components and mechanisms of the PDT process, the effect of PDT on tumor cells, and the most recent studies that reported the benefits of incorporating PSs into silica nanoparticles and integration with PDT against different cancer cells.

Nanocargos designed with synthetic and natural polymers for ovarian cancer management

Ovarian cancer cells usually spread in the peritoneal region, and if chemotherapeutic drugs can be given in these regions with proximity, then the anticancer property of the chemotherapeutic drugs can enhance. However, chemotherapeutic drug administrations are hindered by local toxicity. In the drug delivery system, microparticles or nanoparticles are administered in a controlled manner. Microparticles stay in a close vicinity while nanoparticles are smaller and can move evenly in the peritoneum. Intravenous administration of the drug evenly distributes the medicine in the target places and if the composition of the drug has nanoparticles it will have more specificity and will have easy access to the cancer cells and tumors. Among the different types of nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles were proven as most efficient in drug delivery. Polymeric nanoparticles are seen to be combined with many other molecules like metals, non-metals, lipids, and proteins, which helps in the increase of cellular uptake. The efficiency of different types of polymeric nanoparticles used in delivering the load for management of ovarian cancer will be discussed in this mini-review.

Microfluidic-Assisted Formulation of ε-Polycaprolactone Nanoparticles and Evaluation of Their Properties and In Vitro Cell Uptake

The nanoprecipitation method was used to formulate ε-polycaprolactone (PCL) into fluorescent nanoparticles. Two methods of mixing the phases were evaluated: introducing the organic phase into the aqueous phase dropwise and via a specially designed microfluidic device. As a result of the nanoprecipitation process, fluorescein-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) with a mean diameter of 127 ± 3 nm and polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.180 ± 0.009 were obtained. The profiles of dye release were determined in vitro using dialysis membrane tubing, and the results showed a controlled release of the dye from NPs. In addition, the cytotoxicity of the NPs was assessed using an MTT assay. The PCL NPs were shown to be safe and non-toxic to L929 and MG63 cells. The results of the present study have revealed that PCL NPs represent a promising system for developing new drug delivery systems.

Current Advances in Nanotechnology-Mediated Delivery of Herbal and Plant-Derived Medicines

Phytomedicine has been used by humans since ancient times to treat a variety of diseases. However, herbal medicines face significant challenges, including poor water and lipid solubility and instability, which lead to low bioavailability and insufficient therapeutic efficacy. Recently, it has been shown that nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems are appropriate to overcome the above-mentioned limitations. The present review study first discusses herbal medicines and the challenges involved in the formulation of these drugs. The different types of nano-based drug delivery systems used in herbal delivery and their potential to improve therapeutic efficacy are summarized, and common techniques for preparing nanocarriers used in herbal drug delivery are also discussed. Finally, a list of nanophyto medicines that have entered clinical trials since 2010, as well as those that the FDA has approved, is presented.

Lipid-Coated Polymeric Nanoparticles for the Photodynamic Therapy of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas

Next to alcohol and tobacco abuse, infection with human papillomaviruses (HPVs) is a major risk factor for developing head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs), leading to 350,000 casualties worldwide each year. Limited therapy options and drug resistance raise the urge for alternative methods such as photodynamic therapy (PDT), a minimally invasive procedure used to treat HNSCC and other cancers. We prepared lipid-coated polymeric nanoparticles encapsulating curcumin as the photosensitizer (CUR-LCNPs). The prepared CUR-LCNPs were in the nanometer range (153.37 ± 1.58 nm) and showed an encapsulation efficiency of 92.69 ± 0.03%. Proper lipid coating was visualized using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The CUR-LCNPs were tested in three HPVpos and three HPVneg HNSCC lines regarding their uptake capabilities and in vitro cell killing capacity, revealing a variable but highly significant tumor cell inhibiting effect in all tested HNSCC cell lines. No significant differences were detected between the HPVpos and HPVneg HNSCC groups (mean IC50: (9.34 ± 4.73 µmol/L vs. 6.88 ± 1.03 µmol/L), suggesting CUR-LCNPs/PDT to be a promising therapeutic option for HNSCC patients independent of their HPV status.

Dual Action of Curcumin as an Anti- and Pro-Oxidant from a Biophysical Perspective

Curcumin, a natural polyphenol widely used as a spice, colorant and food additive, has been shown to have therapeutic effects against different disorders, mostly due to its anti-oxidant properties. Curcumin also reduces the efficiency of melanin synthesis and affects cell membranes. However, curcumin can act as a pro-oxidant when blue light is applied, since upon illumination it can generate singlet oxygen. Our review aims to describe this dual role of curcumin from a biophysical perspective, bearing in mind its concentration, bioavailability-enhancing modifications and membrane interactions, as well as environmental conditions such as light. In low concentrations and without irradiation, curcumin shows positive effects and can be recommended as a beneficial food supplement. On the other hand, when used in excess or irradiated, curcumin can be toxic. Therefore, numerous attempts have been undertaken to test curcumin as a potential photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy (PDT). At that point, we underline that curcumin-based PDT is limited to the treatment of superficial tumors or skin and oral infections due to the weak penetration of blue light. Additionally, we conclude that an increase in curcumin bioavailability through the using nanocarriers, and therefore its concentration, as well as its topical use if skin is exposed to light, may be dangerous.

Photoactive Parietin-loaded nanocarriers as an efficient therapeutic platform against triple-negative breast cancer

The application of photodynamic therapy has become more and more important in combating cancer. However, the high lipophilic nature of most photosensitizers limits their parenteral administration and leads to aggregation in the biological environment. To resolve this problem and deliver a photoactive form, the natural photosensitizer parietin (PTN) was encapsulated in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PTN NPs) by emulsification diffusion method. PTN NPs displayed a size of 193.70 nm and 157.31 nm, characterized by dynamic light scattering and atomic force microscopy, respectively. As the photoactivity of parietin is essential for therapy, the quantum yield of PTN NPs and the in vitro release were assessed. The antiproliferative activity, the intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial potential depolarization, and lysosomal membrane permeabilization were evaluated in triple-negative breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231 cells). At the same time, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and flow cytometry were used to investigate the cellular uptake profile. In addition, the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) was employed to evaluate the antiangiogenic effect microscopically. The spherical monomodal PTN NPs show a quantum yield of 0.4. The biological assessment on MDA-MB-231 cells revealed that free PTN and PTN NPs inhibited cell proliferation with IC50 of 0.95 µM and 1.9 µM at 6 J/cm2, respectively, and this can be attributed to the intracellular uptake profile as proved by flow cytometry. Eventually, the CAM study illustrated that PTN NPs could reduce the number of angiogenic blood vessels and disrupt the vitality of xenografted tumors. In conclusion, PTN NPs are a promising anticancer strategy in vitro and might be a tool for fighting cancer in vivo.

Recent Advances in Curcumin-Based Combination Nanomedicines for Cancer Therapy

Standard cancer chemotherapeutics often produce significant adverse effects and eventually lose their effectiveness due to the emergence of resistance mechanisms. As a result, patients with malignant tumors experience a poor quality of life and a short lifespan. Thus, combination medication regimens provide various advantages, including increased success rate, fewer side effects, and fewer occurrences of resistance. Curcumin (Cur), a potential phytochemical from turmeric, when coupled with traditional chemotherapeutics, has been established to improve the effectiveness of cancer treatment in clinical and preclinical investigations. Cur not only exerts multiple mechanisms resulting in apoptotic cancer cell death but also reduces the resistance to standard chemotherapy drugs, mainly through downregulating the multi-drug resistance (MDR) cargoes. Recent reports showed the beneficial outcomes of Cur combination with many chemotherapeutics in various malignancies. Nevertheless, owing to the limited bioavailability, devising co-delivery strategies for Cur and conventional pharmaceuticals appears to be required for clinical settings. This review summarized various Cur combinations with standard treatments as cancer therapeutics.

The Application of Nanoparticle-Based Imaging and Phototherapy for Female Reproductive Organs Diseases

Various female reproductive disorders affect millions of women worldwide and bring many troubles to women's daily life. Let alone, gynecological cancer (such as ovarian cancer and cervical cancer) is a severe threat to most women's lives. Endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and other chronic diseases-induced pain have significantly harmed women's physical and mental health. Despite recent advances in the female reproductive field, the existing challenges are still enormous such as personalization of disease, difficulty in diagnosing early cancers, antibiotic resistance in infectious diseases, etc. To confront such challenges, nanoparticle-based imaging tools and phototherapies that offer minimally invasive detection and treatment of reproductive tract-associated pathologies are indispensable and innovative. Of late, several clinical trials have also been conducted using nanoparticles for the early detection of female reproductive tract infections and cancers, targeted drug delivery, and cellular therapeutics. However, these nanoparticle trials are still nascent due to the body's delicate and complex female reproductive system. The present review comprehensively focuses on emerging nanoparticle-based imaging and phototherapies applications, which hold enormous promise for improved early diagnosis and effective treatments of various female reproductive organ diseases.

Smart nanostructures for targeted oxygen-producing photodynamic therapy of skin photoaging and potential mechanism

Background: Photodynamic therapy increases collagen and decreases solar fibrosis in photoaged skin; however, the efficacy of photodynamic therapy is limited in tissues with a hypoxic microenvironment. Methods: A novel autogenous oxygen-targeted nanoparticle, named MCZT, was synthesized based on the zeolitic imidazole framework material ZIF-8, methyl aminolevulinate, catalase and an anti-TRPV1 monoclonal antibody, and its effects on skin photoaging were investigated. Results: MCZT was successfully synthesized and showed uniform particle size, good dispersion, and excellent biocompatibility and safety. Moreover, MCZT effectively alleviated UV-induced inflammation, cellular senescence and apoptosis in HFF-1 cells. In in vivo models, MCZT ameliorated UV-evoked erythema and wrinkling, inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as the loss of collagen fibers and water, in the skin of mice. Conclusion: These findings suggest that MCZT holds promising potential for the treatment of skin photoaging.

Curcumin a Natural Phenol and Its Therapeutic Role in Cancer and Photodynamic Therapy: A Review

Cancer continues to cause an alarming number of deaths globally, and its burden on the health system is significant. Though different conventional therapeutic procedures are exploited for cancer treatment, the prevalence and death rates remain elevated. These, therefore, insinuate that novel and more efficient treatment procedures are needed for cancer. Curcumin, a bioactive, natural, phenolic compound isolated from the rhizome of the herbaceous plant turmeric, is receiving great interest for its exciting and broad pharmacological properties. Curcumin presents anticancer therapeutic capacities and can be utilized as a photosensitizing drug in cancer photodynamic therapy (PDT). Nonetheless, curcumin's poor bioavailability and related pharmacokinetics limit its clinical utility in cancer treatment. This review looks at the physical and chemical properties, bioavailability, and safety of curcumin, while focusing on curcumin as an agent in cancer therapy and as a photosensitizer in cancer PDT. The possible mechanisms and cellular targets of curcumin in cancer therapy and PDT are highlighted. Furthermore, recent improvements in curcumin's bioavailability in cancer therapy using nanoformulations and delivery systems are presented.

The Effect of Curcumin-Loaded Glucan Nanoparticles on Immune Cells: Size as a Critical Quality Attribute

Curcumin is known for its multiple health benefits, largely due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been extensively studied as a therapeutic agent, however, it does not have good clinical efficacy due to its poor water solubility and bioavailability. Despite accepting the encapsulation of this compound in polymeric particles as one of the most promising strategies to increase its therapeutic value, these nanoparticles have fallen short of expectations due to a lack of assessment of their possible adverse effects on the immune system. Therefore, in this work, we report on a new method to encapsulate curcumin into glucan nanoparticles and their effects on cells of the immune system were evaluated. Two different-sized curcumin-loaded glucan NPs (GluCur 100 and GluCur 380) were produced, each with an encapsulation efficiency close to 100%, and were characterized regarding their size distribution, surface properties, and morphology. The results revealed the greatest hemolytic effect and cytotoxicity for the smallest particles (100 nm) tested in human PBMCs and RAW 264.7 cells. Although GluCur 380 NPs showed a weaker ROS production, they were able to inhibit the production of NO by macrophages. Furthermore, we found that the coagulation time was not affected by both sized-particles as well as platelet function. Additionally, both nanoparticles induced lymphocyte proliferation and TNF-α secretion by Mo-DCs. In conclusion, this report emphasizes the importance of the immunotoxicity assessment and how this is dependent on the intrinsic properties of nanomaterials, hopefully contributing to increasing the safety of nanomedicines.

The Formulation of Curcumin: 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin Complex with Smart Hydrogel for Prolonged Release of Curcumin

Curcumin comes from the plant species Curcuma longa and shows numerous pharmacological activities. There are numerous curcumin formulations with gels or cyclodextrins in order to increase its solubility and bioavailability. This paper presents the formulation of complex of curcumin with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin in a thermosensitive hydrogel, based on N-isopropylmethacrylamide and N-isopropylacrylamide with ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as a crosslinker. The product was characterized by chemical methods and also by FTIR, HPLC, DSC, SEM, XRD. The results show that synthesis was successfully done. With an increase in the quantity of crosslinker in the hydrogels, the starting release and the release rate of curcumin from the formulation of the complex with hydrogels decreases. The release rate of curcumin from the gel complex formulation is constant over time. It is possible to design a formulation that will release curcumin for more than 60 days. In order to determine the mechanism and kinetics of curcumin release, various mathematical models were applied by using the DDSolver package for Microsoft Excel application. The Korsmeyer-Peppas model best describes the release of curcumin from the gel formulation of the complex, while the values for the diffusion exponent (0.063-0.074) shows that mechanism of the release rate is based on diffusion.

Photothermally Controlled Drug Release of Poly(d,l-lactide) Nanofibers Loaded with Indocyanine Green and Curcumin for Efficient Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy

Chronic wound infections with antibiotic-resistant bacteria have become a significant problem for modern healthcare systems since they are often associated with high costs and require profound topical wound management. Successful wound healing is achieved by reducing the bacterial load of the wound and providing an environment that enhances cell growth. In this context, nanofibers show remarkable success because their structure offers a promising drug delivery platform that can mimic the native extracellular matrix and accelerate cell proliferation. In our study, single-needle electrospinning, a versatile and cost-efficient technique, was used to shape polymers into an applicable and homogeneous fleece capable of a photothermally triggered drug release. It was combined with antimicrobial photodynamic therapy, a promising procedure against resistant bacteria. Therefore, poly(d,l-lactide) nanofibers loaded with curcumin and indocyanine green (ICG) were produced for local antimicrobial treatment. The mesh had a homogeneous structure, and the nanofibers showed a smooth surface. Recordings with a thermal camera showed that near-infrared light irradiation of ICG increased the temperature (>44 °C) in the surrounding medium. Release studies confirmed more than 29% enhanced curcumin release triggered by elevated temperature. The antimicrobial activity was tested against the gram-positive strain Staphylococcus saprophyticus subsp. bovis and the gram-negative strain Escherichia coli DH5 alpha. The nanofibers loaded with both photosensitizers and irradiated with both wavelengths reduced the bacterial viability (~4.4 log₁₀, 99.996%) significantly more than the nanofibers loaded with only one photosensitizer (<1.7 log₁₀, 97.828%) or irradiated with only one wavelength (<2.0 log₁₀, 98.952%). In addition, our formulation efficiently eradicated persistent adhered bacteria by >4.3 log₁₀ (99.995%), which was also confirmed visually. Finally, the produced nanofibers showed good biocompatibility, proven by the cellular viability of mouse fibroblasts (L929). The data demonstrate that we have developed a new economic nanofiber formulation, which offers a triggered drug release, excellent antimicrobial properties, and good biocompatibility.

PLGA-Based Nanomedicine: History of Advancement and Development in Clinical Applications of Multiple Diseases

Research on the use of biodegradable polymers for drug delivery has been ongoing since they were first used as bioresorbable surgical devices in the 1980s. For tissue engineering and drug delivery, biodegradable polymer poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) has shown enormous promise among all biomaterials. PLGA are a family of FDA-approved biodegradable polymers that are physically strong and highly biocompatible and have been extensively studied as delivery vehicles of drugs, proteins, and macromolecules such as DNA and RNA. PLGA has a wide range of erosion times and mechanical properties that can be modified. Many innovative platforms have been widely studied and created for the development of methods for the controlled delivery of PLGA. In this paper, the various manufacturing processes and characteristics that impact their breakdown and drug release are explored in depth. Besides different PLGA-based nanoparticles, preclinical and clinical applications for different diseases and the PLGA platform types and their scale-up issues will be discussed.

The Influence of Turmeric and Curcumin on Female Reproductive Processes

The present review summarizes the available knowledge concerning the action of curcumin, the best-known polyphenol among the rhizomes of Curcumas, on female reproductive processes and their dysfunctions. Curcumin affects a number of physiological processes, including female reproduction (puberty, reproductive aging, ovarian follicullogenesis and oogenesis, and fecundity). Curcumin can affect these processes via changes in the release and reception of pituitary and ovarian hormones, growth factors and cytokines. Furthermore, it can influence the response of ovarian cells to these substances and external environmental factors. Finally, curcumin can affect oxidative processes within the ovary and numerous intracellular signalling pathways related to ovarian cell proliferation and apoptosis. These effects suggest the applicability of curcumin for stimulation of female reproductive processes in vivo and in vitro, as well as for the prevention, mitigation, and treatment of various reproductive disorders from ovarian insufficiency and infertility to polycystic ovarian syndrome and ovarian cancer.

Biopolymeric nanoparticles based effective delivery of bioactive compounds toward the sustainable development of anticancerous therapeutics

Nowadays, effective cancer therapy is a global concern, and recent advances in nanomedicine are crucial. Cancer is one of the major fatal diseases and a leading cause of death globally. Nanotechnology provides rapidly evolving delivery systems in science for treating diseases in a site-specific manner using natural bioactive compounds, which are gaining widespread attention. Nanotechnology combined with bioactives is a very appealing and relatively new area in cancer treatment. Natural bioactive compounds have the potential to be employed as a chemotherapeutic agent in the treatment of cancer, in addition to their nutritional benefits. Alginate, pullulan, cellulose, polylactic acid, chitosan, and other biopolymers have been effectively used in the delivery of therapeutics to a specific site. Because of their biodegradability, biopolymeric nanoparticles (BNPs) have received a lot of attention in the development of new anticancer drug delivery systems. Biopolymer-based nanoparticle systems can be made in a variety of ways. These systems have developed as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to boost treatment efficacy. Effective drug delivery systems with improved availability, increased selectivity, and lower toxicity are needed. Recent research findings and current knowledge on the use of BNPs in the administration of bioactive chemicals in cancer therapy are summarized in this review.

Recent Advances in Near Infrared Upconverting Nanomaterials for Targeted Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a well-established treatment of cancer that uses the toxic reactive oxygen species, including singlet oxygen (1O2), generated by photosensitiser drugs following irradiation of a specific wavelength to destroy the cancerous cells and tumours. Visible light is commonly used as the excitation source in PDT, which is not ideal for cancer treatment due to its reduced tissue penetration, and thus inefficiency to treat deep-lying tumours. Additionally, these wavelengths exhibit elevated autofluorescence background from the biological tissues which hinders optical biomedical imaging. An alternative to UV-Vis irradiation is the use of near infrared (NIR) excitation for PDT. This can be achieved using upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) functionalised with photosensitiser (PS) drugs where UCNPs can be used as an indirect excitation source for the activation of PS drugs yielding to the production of singlet 1O2 following NIR excitation. The use of nanoparticles for PDT is also beneficial due to their tumour targeting capability, either passively via the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect or actively via stimuli-responsive targeting and ligand-mediated targeting (ie. using recognition units that can bind specific receptors only present or overexpressed on tumour cells). Here, we review recent advances in NIR upconverting nanomaterials for PDT of cancer with a clear distinction between those reported nanoparticles that could potentially target the tumour due to accumulation via the EPR effect (passive targeting) and nanoparticle-based systems that contain targeting agents with the aim of actively target the tumour via a molecular recognition process.

Curcumin nanoformulations: Beneficial nanomedicine against cancer

Curcumin is a phytochemical achieved from the plant turmeric. It is extensively utilized for the treatment of several types of diseases such as cancers. Nevertheless, its efficiency has been limited because of rapid metabolism, low bioavailability, poor water solubility, and systemic elimination. Scientists have tried to solve these problems by exploring novel drug delivery systems such as lipid-based nanoparticles (NPs) (e.g., solid lipid NPs, nanostructured lipid carriers, and liposomes), polymeric NPs, micelles, nanogels, cyclodextrin, gold, and mesoporous silica NPs. Among these, liposomes have been the most expansively studied. This review mainly focuses on the different curcumin nanoformulations and their use in cancer therapy in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. Despite the development of curcumin-containing NPs for the treatment of cancer, potentially serious side effects, including interactions with other drugs, some toxicity aspects of NPs may occur that require more high-quality investigations to firmly establish the clinical efficacy.

Curcumin encapsulation in functional PLGA nanoparticles: A promising strategy for cancer therapies

Nanoparticles have emerged as promising drug delivery systems for the treatment of several diseases. Novel cancer therapies have exploited these particles as alternative adjuvant therapies to overcome the traditional limitations of radio and chemotherapy. Curcumin is a natural bioactive compound found in turmeric, that has been reported to show anticancer activity against several types of tumors. Despite some biological limitations regarding its absorption in the human body, curcumin encapsulation in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), a non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible polymer, represents an effective strategy to deliver a drug to a tumor site. Furthermore, PLGA nanoparticles can be engineered with targeting moieties to reach specific cancer cells, thus enhancing the antitumor effects of curcumin. We herein aim to bring an up-to-date summary of the recently developed strategies for curcumin delivery to different types of cancer cells through encapsulation in PLGA nanoparticles, correlating their effects with those of curcumin on the biological capabilities acquired by cancer cells (cancer hallmarks). We discuss the targeting strategies proposed for advanced curcumin delivery and the respective improvements achieved for each cancer cell analyzed, in addition to exploring the encapsulation techniques employed. The conjugation of correct encapsulation techniques with tumor-oriented targeting design can result in curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles that can successfully integrate the elaborate network of development of alternative cancer treatments along with traditional ones. Finally, the current challenges and future demands to launch these nanoparticles in oncology are comprehensively examined.

Prospects of Curcumin Nanoformulations in Cancer Management

There is increasing interest in the use of natural compounds with beneficial pharmacological effects for managing diseases. Curcumin (CUR) is a phytochemical that is reportedly effective against some cancers through its ability to regulate signaling pathways and protein expression in cancer development and progression. Unfortunately, its use is limited due to its hydrophobicity, low bioavailability, chemical instability, photodegradation, and fast metabolism. Nanoparticles (NPs) are drug delivery systems that can increase the bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs and improve drug targeting to cancer cells via different mechanisms and formulation techniques. In this review, we have discussed various CUR-NPs that have been evaluated for their potential use in treating cancers. Formulations reviewed include lipid, gold, zinc oxide, magnetic, polymeric, and silica NPs, as well as micelles, dendrimers, nanogels, cyclodextrin complexes, and liposomes, with an emphasis on their formulation and characteristics. CUR incorporation into the NPs enhanced its pharmaceutical and therapeutic significance with respect to solubility, absorption, bioavailability, stability, plasma half-life, targeted delivery, and anticancer effect. Our review shows that several CUR-NPs have promising anticancer activity; however, clinical reports on them are limited. We believe that clinical trials must be conducted on CUR-NPs to ensure their effective translation into clinical applications.

Progress in Nanocarriers Codelivery System to Enhance the Anticancer Effect of Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising anticancer noninvasive method and has great potential for clinical applications. Unfortunately, PDT still has many limitations, such as metastatic tumor at unknown sites, inadequate light delivery and a lack of sufficient oxygen. Recent studies have demonstrated that photodynamic therapy in combination with other therapies can enhance anticancer effects. The development of new nanomaterials provides a platform for the codelivery of two or more therapeutic drugs, which is a promising cancer treatment method. The use of multifunctional nanocarriers for the codelivery of two or more drugs can improve physical and chemical properties, increase tumor site aggregation, and enhance the antitumor effect through synergistic actions, which is worthy of further study. This review focuses on the latest research progress on the synergistic enhancement of PDT by simultaneous multidrug administration using codelivery nanocarriers. We introduce the design of codelivery nanocarriers and discuss the mechanism of PDT combined with other antitumor methods. The combination of PDT and chemotherapy, gene therapy, immunotherapy, photothermal therapy, hyperthermia, radiotherapy, sonodynamic therapy and even multidrug therapy are discussed to provide a comprehensive understanding.

Polymer-Based Nanosystems-A Versatile Delivery Approach

Polymer-based nanoparticles of tailored size, morphology, and surface properties have attracted increasing attention as carriers for drugs, biomolecules, and genes. By protecting the payload from degradation and maintaining sustained and controlled release of the drug, polymeric nanoparticles can reduce drug clearance, increase their cargo's stability and solubility, prolong its half-life, and ensure optimal concentration at the target site. The inherent immunomodulatory properties of specific polymer nanoparticles, coupled with their drug encapsulation ability, have raised particular interest in vaccine delivery. This paper aims to review current and emerging drug delivery applications of both branched and linear, natural, and synthetic polymer nanostructures, focusing on their role in vaccine development.

Latest Innovations and Nanotechnologies with Curcumin as a Nature-Inspired Photosensitizer Applied in the Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer

In the context of the high incidence of cancer worldwide, state-of-the-art photodynamic therapy (PDT) has entered as a usual protocol of attempting to eradicate cancer as a minimally invasive procedure, along with pharmacological resources and radiation therapy. The photosensitizer (PS) excited at certain wavelengths of the applied light source, in the presence of oxygen releases several free radicals and various oxidation products with high cytotoxic potential, which will lead to cell death in irradiated cancerous tissues. Current research focuses on the potential of natural products as a superior generation of photosensitizers, which through the latest nanotechnologies target tumors better, are less toxic to neighboring tissues, but at the same time, have improved light absorption for the more aggressive and widespread forms of cancer. Curcumin incorporated into nanotechnologies has a higher intracellular absorption, a higher targeting rate, increased toxicity to tumor cells, accelerates the activity of caspases and DNA cleavage, decreases the mitochondrial activity of cancer cells, decreases their viability and proliferation, decreases angiogenesis, and finally induces apoptosis. It reduces the size of the primary tumor, reverses multidrug resistance in chemotherapy and decreases resistance to radiation therapy in neoplasms. Current research has shown that the use of PDT and nanoformulations of curcumin has a modulating effect on ROS generation, so light or laser irradiation will lead to excessive ROS growth, while nanocurcumin will reduce the activation of ROS-producing enzymes or will determine the quick removal of ROS, seemingly opposite but synergistic phenomena by inducing neoplasm apoptosis, but at the same time, accelerating the repair of nearby tissue. The latest curcumin nanoformulations have a huge potential to optimize PDT, to overcome major side effects, resistance to chemotherapy, relapses and metastases. All the studies reviewed and presented revealed great potential for the applicability of nanoformulations of curcumin and PDT in cancer therapy.

Use of nanosystems to improve the anticancer effects of curcumin

Curcumin (CUR) is a phenolic compound that is safe for human consumption. It exhibits chemopreventive, antiproliferative, antiangiogenic, and antimetastatic effects. However, these benefits can be hampered due to the lipophilic nature, rapid metabolism, low bioavailability, and fast elimination of the molecule. Considering this, the present work reviews the use of CUR-based nanosystems as anticancer agents, including conventional nanosystems (i.e., liposomes, nanoemulsions, nanocrystals, nanosuspensions, polymeric nanoparticles) and nanosystems that respond to external stimuli (i.e., magnetic nanoparticles and photodynamic therapy). Previous studies showed that the effects of CUR were improved when loaded into nanosystems as compared to the free compound, as well as synergist effects when it is co-administrated alongside with other molecules. In order to maximize the beneficial health effects of CUR, critical factors need to be strictly controlled, such as particle size, morphology, and interaction between the encapsulating material and CUR. In addition, there is an area of study to be explored in the development of CUR-based smart materials for nanomedical applications. Imaging-guided drug delivery of CUR-based nanosystems may also directly target specific cells, thereby increasing the therapeutic and chemopreventive efficacy of this versatile compound.

Molecular dynamics simulations of quinine encapsulation into biodegradable nanoparticles: A possible new strategy against Sars-CoV-2

A new coronavirus disease, SARS-CoV-2, has spread into a global pandemic in December 2019. Since no specific therapeutic drugs for treating COVID-19 have been approved by FDA, recent studies suggest that the known antimalarial quinine and its derivatives (chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine) inhibit receptor binding of the viral particles and inhibits the strong "cytokine storm", which is the main cause of death among infected patients. In particular, the natural alkaloid quinine has shown to possess a better safety profile and greater tolerability compared to its derivatives. Dosage optimization of quinine is still necessary as the currently available dosage forms have controversial pharmacokinetics and safety profiles. Therefore, repurposing quinine dosage forms to improve its pharmacokinetics and safety profile may be necessary to support its use against SARS-CoV-2. In this context, biodegradable/biocompatible polymeric nanoparticles may provide a safe site-specific and controlled quinine delivery, reducing the frequency of drug administration and the dose. In this study, a full atomistic molecular dynamics simulation approach has been used to investigate the use of poly-(glycolic acid) and poly-(lactic acid) and their copolymer poly-(lactic-co-glycolic acid) as potential delivery systems for lipophilic quinine to get insights into the mechanism of quinine encapsulation and release at the atomic/molecular level.

Photodynamic Therapy Review: Principles, Photosensitizers, Applications, and Future Directions

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive therapeutic modality that has gained great attention in the past years as a new therapy for cancer treatment. PDT uses photosensitizers that, after being excited by light at a specific wavelength, react with the molecular oxygen to create reactive oxygen species in the target tissue, resulting in cell death. Compared to conventional therapeutic modalities, PDT presents greater selectivity against tumor cells, due to the use of photosensitizers that are preferably localized in tumor lesions, and the precise light irradiation of these lesions. This paper presents a review of the principles, mechanisms, photosensitizers, and current applications of PDT. Moreover, the future path on the research of new photosensitizers with enhanced tumor selectivity, featuring the improvement of PDT effectiveness, has also been addressed. Finally, new applications of PDT have been covered.

Improvement of Pulmonary Photodynamic Therapy: Nebulisation of Curcumin-Loaded Tetraether Liposomes

Lung cancer is one of the most common causes for a high number of cancer related mortalities worldwide. Therefore, it is important to improve the therapy by finding new targets and developing convenient therapies. One of these novel non-invasive strategies is the combination of pulmonary delivered tetraether liposomes and photodynamic therapy. In this study, liposomal model formulations containing the photosensitiser curcumin were nebulised via two different technologies, vibrating-mesh nebulisation and air-jet nebulisation, and compared with each other. Particle size and ζ-potential of the liposomes were investigated using dynamic light scattering and laser Doppler anemometry, respectively. Furthermore, atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to determine the morphological characteristics. Using a twin glass impinger, suitable aerodynamic properties were observed, with the fine particle fraction of the aerosols being ≤62.7 ± 1.6%. In vitro irradiation experiments on lung carcinoma cells (A549) revealed an excellent cytotoxic response of the nebulised liposomes in which the stabilisation of the lipid bilayer was the determining factor. Internalisation of nebulised curcumin-loaded liposomes was visualised utilising confocal laser scanning microscopy. Based on these results, the pulmonary application of curcumin-loaded tetraether liposomes can be considered as a promising approach for the photodynamic therapy against lung cancer.

Development of Polymer-Assisted Nanoparticles and Nanogels for Cancer Therapy: An Update

With cancer remaining as one of the main causes of deaths worldwide, many studies are undergoing the effort to look for a novel and potent anticancer drug. Nanoparticles (NPs) are one of the rising fields in research for anticancer drug development. One of the key advantages of using NPs for cancer therapy is its high flexibility for modification, hence additional properties can be added to the NPs in order to improve its anticancer action. Polymer has attracted considerable attention to be used as a material to enhance the bioactivity of the NPs. Nanogels, which are NPs cross-linked with hydrophilic polymer network have also exhibited benefits in anticancer application. The characteristics of these nanomaterials include non-toxic, environment-friendly, and variable physiochemical properties. Some other unique properties of polymers are also attributed by diverse methods of polymer synthesis. This then contributes to the unique properties of the nanodrugs. This review article provides an in-depth update on the development of polymer-assisted NPs and nanogels for cancer therapy. Topics such as the synthesis, usage, and properties of the nanomaterials are discussed along with their mechanisms and functions in anticancer application. The advantages and limitations are also discussed in this article.

Curcumin-Loaded Micelles Dispersed in Ureasil-Polyether Materials for a Novel Sustained-Release Formulation

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a vulvar/vaginal infection that affects approximately 75% of women worldwide. The current treatment consists of antimicrobials with hepatotoxic properties and high drug interaction probabilities. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a new treatment to VVC based on micelles containing curcumin (CUR) dispersed in a ureasil-polyether (U-PEO) hybrid. The physical-chemical characterization was carried out in order to observe size, shape, crystallinity degree and particle dispersion in the formulation and was performed by dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and through in vitro release study. The results of DLS and SEM exhibited micelles with 35 nm, and encapsulation efficiency (EE) results demonstrated 100% of EE to CUR dispersed in the U-PEO, which was confirmed by the DRX. The release results showed that CUR loaded in U-PEO is 70% released after 10 days, which demonstrates the potential application of this material in different pharmaceutical forms (ovules and rings), and the possibility of multidose based on a single application, suggesting a higher rate of adherence.

Enhanced efficacy and drug delivery with lipid coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles in cancer therapy

The exposure of cancer cells to subtherapeutic drug concentrations results in multidrug resistance (MDR). The uniqueness of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) with larger surface area for higher drug loading can solve the issue by delivering higher amounts of chemotherapeutics to the cancer cells. However, premature drug release and lower biocompatibility remain challenging. Lipid coating of MSNPs at the same time, can enhance the stability and biocompatibility of nanocarriers. Furthermore, the lipid coating can reduce the systemic drug release and deliver higher amounts to the tumor site. Herein, lipid coated MSNPs were prepared by utilizing cationic liposomes and further investigations were made. Our studies have shown the higher entrapment of doxorubicin (Dox) to MSNPs due to availability of porous structure. Lipid coating could provide a barrier to sustain the release of drug along with reduced premature leakage. In addition, the biocompatibility and enhanced interaction of cationic liposomes to cell membranes resulted in better cellular uptake. Lipid coated silica nanoparticles have shown higher cellular toxicity as compared to non-lipid coated particles. The increase in cytotoxicity with time supports the hypothesis of sustained release of drug from lipid coated MSNPs. We propose the Lip-Dox-MSNPs as an effective approach to treat cancer by delivering and maintaining effective concentration of drugs to the tumor site without systemic side effects.

Gemini Curcumin Suppresses Proliferation of Ovarian Cancer OVCAR-3 Cells via Induction of Apoptosis

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer has the highest mortality rate among gynecological malignancies. Despite recent advances in treatment, most patients still suffer from poor prognosis. Curcumin has shown highly cytotoxic effects against different types of cancer. However, its poor bioavailability restricts its clinical application. Gemini Curcumin (Gemini-Cur) has been developed to overcome this limitation.

OBJECTIVE

Here, we aimed to unravel the inhibitory effect of Gemini-Cur in ovarian cancer.

METHODS

OVCAR-3 cells were treated with free curcumin and Gemni-Cur in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Then, the anticancer activity was investigated by uptake kinetics, cellular viability and apoptotic assays. Furthermore, we evaluated the BAX/Bcl-2 expression ratio by real-time PCR and western blotting.

RESULTS

Our data showed that gemini surfactant nanoparticles enhance the cellular uptake of curcumin compared to free curcumin (p<0.01). Regarding the growth inhibitory effect of nano-curcumin, the results demonstrated that Gemini-Cur suppresses the proliferation of OVCAR-3 cells through induction of apoptosis (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The results illustrate that Gemini-Cur nanoparticles have a great potential for developing novel therapeutics against ovarian cancer.

Lipoparticles for Synergistic Chemo-Photodynamic Therapy to Ovarian Carcinoma Cells: In vitro and in vivo Assessments

PURPOSE

Lipoparticles are the core-shell type lipid-polymer hybrid systems comprising polymeric nanoparticle core enveloped by single or multiple pegylated lipid layers (shell), thereby melding the biomimetic properties of long-circulating vesicles as well as the mechanical advantages of the nanoparticles. The present study was aimed at the development of such an integrated system, combining the photodynamic and chemotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of multidrug-resistant cancers.

METHODS

For this rationale, two different sized Pirarubicin (THP) loaded poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation technique, whereas liposomes containing Temoporfin (mTHPC) were prepared by lipid film hydration method. Physicochemical and morphological characterizations were done using dynamic light scattering, laser doppler anemometry, atomic force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The quantitative assessment of cell damage was determined using MTT and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay. The biocompatibility of the nanoformulations was evaluated with serum stability testing, haemocompatibility as well as acute in vivo toxicity using female albino (BALB/c) mice.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The mean hydrodynamic diameter of the formulations was found between 108.80 ± 2.10 to 405.70 ± 10.00 nm with the zeta (ζ) potential ranging from -12.70 ± 1.20 to 5.90 ± 1.10 mV. Based on the physicochemical evaluations, the selected THP nanoparticles were coated with mTHPC liposomes to produce lipid-coated nanoparticles (LCNPs). A significant (p< 0.001) cytotoxicity synergism was evident in LCNPs when irradiated at 652 nm, using an LED device. No incidence of genotoxicity was observed as seen with the comet assay. The LCNPs decreased the generalized in vivo toxicity as compared to the free drugs and was evident from the serum biochemical profile, visceral body index, liver function tests as well as renal function tests. The histopathological examinations of the vital organs revealed no significant evidence of toxicity suggesting the safety and efficacy of our lipid-polymer hybrid system.

Mitochondria-targeted curcumin loaded CTPP–PEG–PCL self-assembled micelles for improving liver fibrosis therapy

Liver fibrosis, originating from activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), is receiving much attention in the treatment of clinical liver disease. In this study, mitochondria-targeted curcumin (Cur) loaded 3-carboxypropyl-triphenylphosphonium bromide–poly(ethylene glycol)–poly(ε-caprolactone) (CTPP–PEG–PCL) micelles were constructed to prolong the systemic circulation of Cur, improve the bioavailability of Cur and play a precise role in anti-fibrosis. The prepared Cur–CTPP–PEG–PCL micelles with a spherical shape had satisfactory dispersion, low critical micelle concentration (CMC) and high encapsulation efficiency (92.88%). The CTPP modification endowed good endosomal escape ability to the CTPP–PEG–PCL micelles, and micelles could be selectively accumulated in mitochondria, thereby inducing the enhanced cell proliferation inhibition of HSC-T6 cells. Mitochondrial Membrane Potential (MMP) was greatly reduced due to the mitochondrial-targeting of Cur. Moreover, the system circulation of Cur was extended and bioavailability was significantly enhanced in vivo. As expected, Cur loaded CTPP–PEG–PCL micelles were more effective in improving liver fibrosis compared with Cur and Cur–mPEG–PCL micelles. In conclusion, the Cur–CTPP–PEG–PCL based micelles can be a potential candidate for liver fibrosis treatment in future clinical applications.

A mitochondria-targeting micelle system based on CTPP–PEG–PCL polymer was designed to deliver curcumin to active HSC-T6 cells and prolong the systemic circulation and bioavailability of curcumin in vivo for effective treatment of liver fibrosis.

ADAM 8 as a novel target for doxorubicin delivery to TNBC cells using magnetic thermosensitive liposomes

Metastatic breast cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death in women worldwide. The transmembrane metalloprotease-disintegrin (ADAM8) protein is highly overexpressed in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells and potentiates tumor cell invasion and extracellular matrix remodeling. Exploiting the high expression levels of ADAM8 in TNBC cells by delivering anti-ADAM8 antibodies efficiently to the targeted site can be a promising strategy for therapy of TNBC. For instance, a targeted approach with the aid of ultra-high field magnetic resonance imaging (UHF-MRI) activatable thermosensitive liposomes (Lip_TS-GD) could specifically increase the intracellular accumulation of cytotoxic drugs. The surface of doxorubicin-loaded Lip_TS-GD was modified by covalent coupling of MAB1031 antibody (Lip_TS-GD-MAB) in order to target the overexpressed ADAM8 in ADAM8 positive MDA-MB-231 cells. Physicochemical characterization of these liposomes was performed using size, surface morphology and UHF-MRI imaging analysis. In vitro cell targeting was investigated by the washing and circulation method. Intracellular trafficking and lysosomal colocalization were assessed by fluorescence microscopy. Cell viability, biocompatibility and in-ovo CAM assays were performed to determine the effectiveness and safety profiles of liposome formulations. Our results show specific binding and induction of doxorubicin release after Lip_TS-GD-MAB treatment caused a higher cytotoxic effect at the cellular target site.

Therapeutic role of curcumin and its novel formulations in gynecological cancers

Gynecological cancers are among the leading causes of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. While the number of cases are rising, current therapeutic approaches are not efficient enough. There are considerable side-effects as well as treatment resistant types. In addition, which all make the treatment complicated for afflicted cases. Therefore, in order to improve efficacy of the treatment process and patients’ quality of life, searching for novel adjuvant treatments is highly warranted. Curcumin, a promising natural compound, is endowed with numerous therapeutic potentials including significant anticancer effects. Recently, various investigations have demonstrated the anticancer effects of curcumin and its novel analogues on gynecological cancers. Moreover, novel formulations of curcumin have resulted in further propitious effects. This review discusses these studies and highlights the possible underlying mechanisms of the observed effects.

Photodynamic inactivation of circulating tumor cells: An innovative approach against metastatic cancer

The spread of a primary malignant tumor is the major reason for most of the cancer-associated deaths. To this day, treatment regimen and available drugs are still insufficient to manage these conditions. In this work, a new therapeutic concept based on photodynamic therapy (PDT) of metastasis-initiating cells is introduced. To address this issue, an experimental model was developed to simulate the movement and photodynamic inactivation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in vitro. Using curcumin loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles, a significant reduction in the cell viability of human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) could be achieved after 30 min laser irradiation (λ = 447 nm, P = 100mW) under flow conditions (5 cm s^-1). Confocal laser scanning microscopy images confirmed the immediate accumulation of curcumin on the cell membrane and an increased fluorescence signal after irradiation. PDT caused time-dependent morphological cell alterations (i.e. membrane evaginations and disruption) indicating apoptosis and early necrosis. During the photoactivation of curcumin, a blue shift in the absorption spectra and a decrease in the curcumin content could be determined. This study confirms that the presented experimental model is suitable for in vitro investigations of CTCs under in vivo-like conditions, at the same time encouraging the clinical implementation of PDT as an innovative strategy against metastasis.

Photodynamic Nanophotosensitizers: Promising Materials for Tumor Theranostics

Photodynamic theranostics/therapy (PDT) is a potential strategy for selectively imaging malignant sites and treating cancer via a non-invasive therapeutic method. Photosensitizers, the crucial components of PDT, enable colocalization of photons and light, and photon/light therapy in the therapeutic window of 400-900 nm exhibits photocytotoxicity to tumor cells. Due to their high biostability and photocytotoxicity, nanophotosensitizers (NPSs) are of much interest for malignant tumor theranostics at present. NPS-activated photons transfer energy through the absorption of a photon and convert molecular oxygen to the singlet reactive oxygen species, which leads to apoptosis and necrosis. Moreover, NPSs modified by polymers, including PLGA, PEG-PLA, PDLLA, PVCL-g-PLA, and P(VCL-co-VIM)-g-PLA, exhibit excellent biocompatibility, and a tumor-targeting molecule linked on the nanoparticle surface can precisely deliver NPSs into the tumor region. The development of NPSs will accelerate the progress in tumor theranostics through the photon/light pathway.

Curcumin-silica nanocomplex preparation, hemoglobin and DNA interaction and photocytotoxicity against melanoma cancer cells

Melanoma is a malignant cancer of the skin associated with a high mortality. Early medical diagnosis and surgical intervention are essential for the treatment of melanoma. The use of plant-based compounds is an important strategy for the prevention and treatment of different types of cancers. Curcumin is a promising natural anticancer compound used towards treatment for various kinds of cancers. Studies have shown that curcumin could be applied as a photosensitizer in cancer photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT uses light and a photosensitizing agent which produce reactive oxygen species leading to cancer cell death. The main obstacle for using curcumin as photosensitizer is its low solubilization ability in an aqueous environment. To improve its application in cancer treatment, we synthetized curcumin-silica nanoparticles as photosensitizer for photodynamic treatment of human melanoma cancer cells. Scanning electron microscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, Powder X-ray diffraction and Thermo geometric analysis indicated that curcumin was loaded on silica. The solubility of curcumin in water increased by using silica nanoparticles which wasconfirmed by spectroscopy results. The spectroscopy study confirmed the interaction of curcumin-silica nanocomplex with double strand DNA and no interaction with hemoglobin. The curcumin-silica nanocomplex and curcumin photodynamic effect was investigated on human melanoma cancer cells (A375) and also human fibroblast cells. The cell toxicity experiments showed that the curcumin-silica nanocomplex had greater photodynamic effects on cancer cell death as compared to free curcumin. The apoptotic assay by acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) dual staining and colony forming ability confirmed the MTT results. Therefore, these results suggest that the curcumin-silica nanocomplex has great potential to be employed in photodynamic treatment of melanoma cancer.