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Bartkowski M, Zhou Y, Nabil Amin Mustafa M, Eustace AJ, Giordani S. CARBON DOTS: Bioimaging and Anticancer Drug Delivery. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202303982. [PMID: 38205882 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202303982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Cancer, responsible for approximately 10 million lives annually, urgently requires innovative treatments, as well as solutions to mitigate the limitations of traditional chemotherapy, such as long-term adverse side effects and multidrug resistance. This review focuses on Carbon Dots (CDs), an emergent class of nanoparticles (NPs) with remarkable physicochemical and biological properties, and their burgeoning applications in bioimaging and as nanocarriers in drug delivery systems for cancer treatment. The review initiates with an overview of NPs as nanocarriers, followed by an in-depth look into the biological barriers that could affect their distribution, from barriers to administration, to intracellular trafficking. It further explores CDs' synthesis, including both bottom-up and top-down approaches, and their notable biocompatibility, supported by a selection of in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo studies. Special attention is given to CDs' role in bioimaging, highlighting their optical properties. The discussion extends to their emerging significance as drug carriers, particularly in the delivery of doxorubicin and other anticancer agents, underscoring recent advancements and challenges in this field. Finally, we showcase examples of other promising bioapplications of CDs, emergent owing to the NPs flexible design. As research on CDs evolves, we envisage key challenges, as well as the potential of CD-based systems in bioimaging and cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Bartkowski
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Yingru Zhou
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | - Silvia Giordani
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin, Ireland
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2
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Bartkowski M, Bincoletto V, Salaroglio IC, Ceccone G, Arenal R, Nervo S, Rolando B, Riganti C, Arpicco S, Giordani S. Enhancing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) therapy with targeted carbon nano-onion (CNO)-mediated delivery of gemcitabine (GEM)-derived prodrugs. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 659:339-354. [PMID: 38176243 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.12.166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Nanotechnology's potential in revolutionising cancer treatments is evident in targeted drug delivery systems (DDSs) engineered to optimise therapeutic efficacy and minimise toxicity. This study examines a novel nanocarrier constructed with carbon nano-onions (CNOs), engineered and evaluated for its ability to selectively target cancer cells overexpressing the hyaluronic acid receptor; CD44. Our results highlighted that the CNO-based nanocarrier coupled with hyaluronic acid as the targeting agent demonstrated effective uptake by CD44+ PANC-1 and MIA PaCa-2 cells, while avoiding CD44- Capan-1 cells. The CNO-based nanocarrier also exhibited excellent biocompatibility in all tested pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells, as well as healthy cells. Notably, the CNO-based nanocarrier was successfully loaded with chemotherapeutic 4-(N)-acyl- sidechain-containing prodrugs derived from gemcitabine (GEM). These prodrugs alone exhibited remarkable efficacy in killing PDAC cells which are known to be GEM resistant, and their efficacy was amplified when combined with the CNO-based nanocarrier, particularly in targeting GEM-resistant CD44+ PDAC cells. These findings demonstrate the potential of CNOs as promising scaffolds in advancing targeted DDSs, signifying the translational potential of carbon nanoparticles for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Bartkowski
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Valeria Bincoletto
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via P. Giuria 9, Torino, Italy
| | | | | | - Raul Arenal
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragon (INMA), CSIC-U. de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Laboratorio de Microscopias Avanzadas (LMA), Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; ARAID Foundation, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sara Nervo
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via P. Giuria 9, Torino, Italy
| | - Barbara Rolando
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via P. Giuria 9, Torino, Italy
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Via Nizza 44, Torino, Italy; Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Arpicco
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Via P. Giuria 9, Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Giordani
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland.
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3
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Yang Z, Xu T, Li H, She M, Chen J, Wang Z, Zhang S, Li J. Zero-Dimensional Carbon Nanomaterials for Fluorescent Sensing and Imaging. Chem Rev 2023; 123:11047-11136. [PMID: 37677071 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Advances in nanotechnology and nanomaterials have attracted considerable interest and play key roles in scientific innovations in diverse fields. In particular, increased attention has been focused on carbon-based nanomaterials exhibiting diverse extended structures and unique properties. Among these materials, zero-dimensional structures, including fullerenes, carbon nano-onions, carbon nanodiamonds, and carbon dots, possess excellent bioaffinities and superior fluorescence properties that make these structures suitable for application to environmental and biological sensing, imaging, and therapeutics. This review provides a systematic overview of the classification and structural properties, design principles and preparation methods, and optical properties and sensing applications of zero-dimensional carbon nanomaterials. Recent interesting breakthroughs in the sensitive and selective sensing and imaging of heavy metal pollutants, hazardous substances, and bioactive molecules as well as applications in information encryption, super-resolution and photoacoustic imaging, and phototherapy and nanomedicine delivery are the main focus of this review. Finally, future challenges and prospects of these materials are highlighted and envisaged. This review presents a comprehensive basis and directions for designing, developing, and applying fascinating fluorescent sensors fabricated based on zero-dimensional carbon nanomaterials for specific requirements in numerous research fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710054, P. R. China
| | - Tiantian Xu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710054, P. R. China
| | - Hui Li
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710054, P. R. China
| | - Mengyao She
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Modern Biotechnology in Western China, Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi, The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, P. R. China
| | - Jiao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Modern Biotechnology in Western China, Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi, The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, P. R. China
| | - Zhaohui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
| | - Shengyong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
| | - Jianli Li
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
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4
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Tan YZ, Thomsen LR, Shrestha N, Camisasca A, Giordani S, Rosengren R. Short-Term Intravenous Administration of Carbon Nano-Onions is Non-Toxic in Female Mice. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:3897-3912. [PMID: 37483316 PMCID: PMC10361275 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s414438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A nanoscale drug carrier could have a variety of therapeutic and diagnostic uses provided that the carrier is biocompatible in vivo. Carbon nano-onions (CNOs) have shown promising results as a nanocarrier for drug delivery. However, the systemic effect of CNOs in rodents is unknown. Therefore, we investigated the toxicity of CNOs following intravenous administration in female BALB/c mice. Results Single or repeated administration of oxi-CNOs (125, 250 or 500 µg) did not affect mouse behavior or organ weight and there was also no evidence of hepatotoxicity or nephrotoxicity. Histological examination of organ slices revealed a significant dose-dependent accumulation of CNO aggregates in the spleen, liver and lungs (p<0.05, ANOVA), with a trace amount of aggregates appearing in the kidneys. However, CNO aggregates in the liver did not affect CYP450 enzymes, as total hepatic CYP450 as well as CYP3A catalytic activity, as meased by erythromycin N-demethylation, and protein levels showed no significant changes between the treatment groups compared to vehicle control. CNOs also failed to act as competitive inhibitors of CYP3A in vitro in both mouse and human liver microsomes. Furthermore, CNOs did not cause oxidative stress, as indicated by the unchanged malondialdehyde levels and superoxide dismutase activity in liver microsomes and organ homogenates. Conclusion This study provides the first evidence that short-term intravenous administration of oxi-CNOs is non-toxic to female mice and thus could be a promising novel and safe drug carrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhen Tan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
| | - Lucy R Thomsen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
| | - Nensi Shrestha
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
| | - Adalberto Camisasca
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin, D09 NA55, Ireland
| | - Silvia Giordani
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin, D09 NA55, Ireland
| | - Rhonda Rosengren
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
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5
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Das C, Sillanpää M, Zaidi SA, Khan MA, Biswas G. Current trends in carbon-based quantum dots development from solid wastes and their applications. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:45528-45554. [PMID: 36809626 PMCID: PMC9942668 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-25822-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Urbanization and a massive population boom have immensely increased the solid wastes (SWs) generation and are expected to reach 3.40 billion tons by 2050. In many developed and emerging nations, SWs are prevalent in both major and small cities. As a result, in the current context, the reusability of SWs through various applications has taken on added importance. Carbon-based quantum dots (Cb-QDs) and their many variants are synthesized from SWs in a straightforward and practical method. Cb-QDs are a new type of semiconductor that has attracted the interest of researchers due to their wide range of applications, which include everything from energy storage, chemical sensing, to drug delivery. This review is primarily focused on the conversion of SWs into useful materials, which is an essential aspect of waste management for pollution reduction. In this context, the goal of the current review is to investigate the sustainable synthesis routes of carbon quantum dots (CQDs), graphene quantum dots (GQDs), and graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs) from various types SWs. The applications of CQDs, GQDs, and GOQDs in the different areas are also been discussed. Finally, the challenges in implementing the existing synthesis methods and future research directions are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanchal Das
- Department of Chemistry, Cooch Behar Panchanan Barma University, West Bengal, Cooch Behar, 736101, India
| | - Mika Sillanpää
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Mining, Metallurgy and Chemical Engineering, University of Johannesburg, P. O. Box 17011, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa
| | - Shabi Abbas Zaidi
- Department of Chemistry and Earth Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Moonis Ali Khan
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Goutam Biswas
- Department of Chemistry, Cooch Behar Panchanan Barma University, West Bengal, Cooch Behar, 736101, India
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Carbon Nanomaterials (CNMs) and Enzymes: From Nanozymes to CNM-Enzyme Conjugates and Biodegradation. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15031037. [PMID: 35160982 PMCID: PMC8838330 DOI: 10.3390/ma15031037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) and enzymes differ significantly in terms of their physico-chemical properties—their handling and characterization require very different specialized skills. Therefore, their combination is not trivial. Numerous studies exist at the interface between these two components—especially in the area of sensing—but also involving biofuel cells, biocatalysis, and even biomedical applications including innovative therapeutic approaches and theranostics. Finally, enzymes that are capable of biodegrading CNMs have been identified, and they may play an important role in controlling the environmental fate of these structures after their use. CNMs’ widespread use has created more and more opportunities for their entry into the environment, and thus it becomes increasingly important to understand how to biodegrade them. In this concise review, we will cover the progress made in the last five years on this exciting topic, focusing on the applications, and concluding with future perspectives on research combining carbon nanomaterials and enzymes.
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Abstract
The family of carbon nanostructures comprises several members, such as fullerenes, nano-onions, nanodots, nanodiamonds, nanohorns, nanotubes, and graphene-based materials. Their unique electronic properties have attracted great interest for their highly innovative potential in nanomedicine. However, their hydrophobic nature often requires organic solvents for their dispersibility and processing. In this review, we describe the green approaches that have been developed to produce and functionalize carbon nanomaterials for biomedical applications, with a special focus on the very latest reports.
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Bartkowski M, Giordani S. Carbon nano-onions as potential nanocarriers for drug delivery. Dalton Trans 2021; 50:2300-2309. [PMID: 33471000 DOI: 10.1039/d0dt04093b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Nanocarriers are nano-sized delivery vesicles that can transport desired molecules to a specific location. The utilisation of nanocarriers for targeted drug-delivery is an emerging field that aims to solve certain disadvantages of free drug delivery; including premature drug degradation, non-specific toxicity, lack of tissue penetration, undesired side-effects, and multi-drug resistance. The nanocarrier approach has proven effective in this regard, with some examples of FDA approved nanocarrier systems available on the market. In this perspective, we investigate the potential of carbon nano-onions (CNOs) as nanocarriers for drug delivery. The various criteria and considerations for designing a nanocarrier are outlined, and we thoroughly discuss how CNOs fit these criteria. Given the rapidly developing interest in CNOs, this perspective provides a baseline discussion for the use of this novel carbon nanomaterial as a potential nanocarrier for drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Bartkowski
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Ireland.
| | - Silvia Giordani
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Ireland.
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9
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Kang N, Hua J, Gao L, Zhang B, Pang J. The Interplay between Whey Protein Fibrils with Carbon Nanotubes or Carbon Nano-Onions. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 14:608. [PMID: 33525699 PMCID: PMC7865974 DOI: 10.3390/ma14030608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Whey protein isolate (WPI) fibrils were prepared using an acid hydrolysis induction process. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbon nano-onions (CNOs) were made via the catalytic chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of methane. WPI fibril-CNTs and WPI fibril-CNOs were prepared via hydrothermal synthesis at 80 °C. The composites were characterized by SEM, TEM, FTIR, XRD, Raman, and TG analyses. The interplay between WPI fibrils and CNTs and CNOs were studied. The WPI fibrils with CNTs and CNOs formed uniform gels and films. CNTs and CNOs were highly dispersed in the gels. Hydrogels of WPI fibrils with CNTs (or CNOs) could be new materials with applications in medicine or other fields. The CNTs and CNOs shortened the WPI fibrils, which might have important research value for curing fibrosis diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. The FTIR revealed that CNTs and CNOs both had interactions with WPI fibrils. The XRD analysis suggested that most of the CNTs were wrapped in WPI fibrils, while CNOs were partially wrapped. This helped to increase the biocompatibility and reduce the cytotoxicity of CNTs and CNOs. HR-TEM and Raman spectroscopy studies showed that the graphitization level of CNTs was higher than for CNOs. After hybridization with WPI fibrils, more defects were created in CNTs, but some original defects were dismissed in CNOs. The TG results indicated that a new phase of WPI fibril-CNTs or CNOs was formed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Kang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China;
- Taiyuan Customs District, Taiyuan 030006, China;
| | - Jin Hua
- Taiyuan Customs District, Taiyuan 030006, China;
| | - Lizhen Gao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China;
| | - Bin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coal Science, Technology of the Ministry of Education, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Jiewen Pang
- College of Environment and Safety, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China;
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Dalal C, Saini D, Garg AK, Sonkar SK. Fluorescent Carbon Nano-onion as Bioimaging Probe. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2021; 4:252-266. [PMID: 35014282 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c01192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Concentrically arranged multilayered fullerenes exhibiting onion-like morphology are popularly known as carbon nano-onion (CNO) and are useful in bioimaging application. On the basis of the origin of the fluorescence, the CNO-based nanoprobes are classified into type I and type II. The type I CNO-based nanoprobe needs a secondary moiety such as organic dyes or an amine functionalization at its surface to induce the fluorescence. On the other hand, the emission in type II does not originate from such an external surface passivating agent. The CNO-based system not only shows structural similarity to the well-known multiwalled carbon nanotube but is also a bit more advantageous because of its low cytotoxicity. These features enable their prolonged use in the biological system for imaging purposes. In particular, we have covered the aspects of synthesis, surface functionalization, the origin of fluorescence, and biocompatibility. In addition, recent developments directed toward in vitro and in vivo imaging studies by utilizing CNO-based nanoprobes are summarized here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chumki Dalal
- Department of Chemistry, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, Jaipur 302017, India
| | - Deepika Saini
- Department of Chemistry, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, Jaipur 302017, India
| | - Anjali Kumari Garg
- Department of Chemistry, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, Jaipur 302017, India
| | - Sumit Kumar Sonkar
- Department of Chemistry, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, Jaipur 302017, India
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11
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Bartelmess J, Milcovich G, Maffeis V, d'Amora M, Bertozzi SM, Giordani S. Modulation of Efficient Diiodo-BODIPY in vitro Phototoxicity to Cancer Cells by Carbon Nano-Onions. Front Chem 2020; 8:573211. [PMID: 33134274 PMCID: PMC7574714 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.573211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy is currently one of the most promising approaches for targeted cancer treatment. It is based on responses of vital physiological signals, namely, reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are associated with diseased condition development, such as tumors. This study presents the synthesis, incorporation, and application of a diiodo-BODIPY–based photosensitizer, based on a non-covalent functionalization of carbon nano-onions (CNOs). In vitro assays demonstrate that HeLa cells internalize the diiodo-BODIPY molecules and their CNO nanohybrids. Upon cell internalization and light exposure, the pyrene–diiodo-BODIPY molecules induce an increase of the ROS level of HeLa cells, resulting in remarkable photomediated cytotoxicity and apoptosis. Conversely, when HeLa cells internalize the diiodo-BODIPY/CNO nanohybrids, no significant cytotoxicity or ROS basal level increase can be detected. These results define a first step toward the understanding of carbon nanomaterials that function as molecular shuttles for photodynamic therapeutics, boosting the modulation of the photosensitizer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juergen Bartelmess
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, Italy
| | - Gesmi Milcovich
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, Italy.,School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University (DCU), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Viviana Maffeis
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, Italy
| | - Marta d'Amora
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Giordani
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, Italy.,School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University (DCU), Dublin, Ireland
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12
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Camisasca A, Giordani S. Surfactant-mediated dispersions of carbon nano-onions in aqueous solution. NANO EXPRESS 2020. [DOI: 10.1088/2632-959x/ab8481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
In this work, we investigate the ability of different surfactants to form homogeneous and stable dispersions of carbon nano-onions (CNOs) in water via non-covalent interactions. For our purposes, we select three ionic surfactants, namely the cationic hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and the two anionic deoxycholic acid sodium salt (DCAS) and sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (SDBS). We examine the dispersing efficacy at dispersing CNOs and long-term stability by UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering and zeta-potential. Among the three surfactants, the anionic surfactants show the best ability to create stable CNO dispersions, with SDBS exhibiting superior efficacy. Our non-covalent strategy provides a valuable approach to enhance the solubility features while preserving the unique properties of CNOs.
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13
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Abstract
Carbon nano-onions (CNOs) are concentric multi-layered fullerenes. Their shape, size and layer count depends on the method of preparation. Their low cytotoxicity allows for high applicability in the biomedical field, in particular, nanomedicine. However, an adequate dispersion of particles in aqueous media is required for the most effective use in this application. Given the hydrophobic nature of pristine CNOs, as is the case with most carbon nanomaterials, they show poor water solubility. Non-covalent functionalisation can be utilised to alter their dispersibility properties, without affecting the intrinsic properties of the sp2 nanomaterial. The use of CNOs in the field of nanomedicine also requires consideration of drug release at the target site. As covalent bonds are inadequate for this purpose, attention is brought towards non-covalent interactions as a viable option for targeted release. This minireview outlines the different methods and approaches for non-covalent modifications of CNOs reported in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Bartkowski
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Ireland.
| | - Silvia Giordani
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Ireland.
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14
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d'Amora M, Liendo F, Deorsola FA, Bensaid S, Giordani S. Toxicological profile of calcium carbonate nanoparticles for industrial applications. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2020; 190:110947. [PMID: 32203909 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2020.110947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Calcium carbonate nanoparticles (CaCO3NPs) derived from CO2 are promising materials for different industrial applications. It is imperative to understand their toxicological profile in biological systems as the human and environmental exposures to CaCO3NPs increases with growing production. Here, we analyse the cytotoxicity of CaCO3NPs synthesized from a CaO slurry on two cell lines, and in vivo on zebrafish (Danio Rerio). Our results demonstrate the CaCO3NPs in vitro safety as they do not cause cell death or genotoxicity. Moreover, zebrafish treated with CaCO3NPs develop without any abnormalities, confirming the safety and biocompatibility of this nanomaterial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta d'Amora
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144, Torino, Italy.
| | - Freddy Liendo
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129, Torino, Italy
| | - Fabio A Deorsola
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129, Torino, Italy
| | - Samir Bensaid
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129, Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Giordani
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144, Torino, Italy; School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University (DCU), Glasnevin, D09 C7F8, Dublin, Ireland.
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15
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Giordani S, Camisasca A, Maffeis V. Carbon Nano-onions: A Valuable Class of Carbon Nanomaterials in Biomedicine. Curr Med Chem 2020; 26:6915-6929. [PMID: 30474524 DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666181126113957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The development of nanoscale materials is an important area of research as it provides access to materials with unique properties that can be applied to improve quality of life. Multi-layer fullerenes, also known as carbon nano-onions (CNOs) are an exciting class of nanostructures which show great versatility and applicability. They find applications in several fields of technology and biomedicine. This review highlights the potential advantages of CNOs for biomedical applications, which include but are not limited to bioimaging and sensing. Their good biocompatibility renders them promising platforms for the development of novel healthcare devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giordani
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Adalberto Camisasca
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144 Torino, Italy
| | - Viviana Maffeis
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144 Torino, Italy
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d'Amora M, Camisasca A, Boarino A, Arpicco S, Giordani S. Supramolecular functionalization of carbon nano-onions with hyaluronic acid-phospholipid conjugates for selective targeting of cancer cells. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2020; 188:110779. [PMID: 31955017 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2020.110779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Carbon nano-onions (CNOs) are promising materials for biomedical applications due to their low cytotoxicity and excellent biocompatibility. Supramolecular functionalization with biocompatible polymers is an effective strategy to develop engineered drug carriers for targeted delivery applications. In this study, we report the use of a hyaluronic acid-phospholipid (HA-DMPE) conjugate to target CD44 overexpressing cancer cells, while enhancing solubility of the nanoconstruct. Non-covalently functionalized CNOs with HA-DMPE show excellent in vitro cell viability in human breast carcinoma cells overexpressing CD44 and are uptaken to a greater extent compared to human ovarian carcinoma cells with an undetectable amount of CD44. In addition, they possess high in vivo biocompatibility in zebrafish (Danio Rerio) during the different stages of development and they prevalently localize in the digestive tract of the zebrafish larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta d'Amora
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144, Torino, Italy
| | - Adalberto Camisasca
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University (DCU), Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Alice Boarino
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144, Torino, Italy; Department of Chemistry, University of Turin, via Giuria 7, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Arpicco
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Giuria 9, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Giordani
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144, Torino, Italy; School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University (DCU), Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland; Department of Chemistry, University of Turin, via Giuria 7, 10125, Torino, Italy.
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d'Amora M, Maffeis V, Brescia R, Barnes D, Scanlan E, Giordani S. Carbon Nano-Onions as Non-Cytotoxic Carriers for Cellular Uptake of Glycopeptides and Proteins. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 9:E1069. [PMID: 31349665 PMCID: PMC6722779 DOI: 10.3390/nano9081069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Carbon nano-onions (CNOs) possess favorable properties that make them suitable for biomedical applications, including their small size, ready surface modification, and good biocompatibility. Here, we report the covalent immobilization of a synthetic glycopeptide and the protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) onto the surface of carbon nano-onions using the maleimide-thiol "addition reaction". The glycopeptide and BSA are readily transported inside different cell lines, together with carbon nano-onions, through the endocytosis pathway. Our results show that carbon nano-onions are excellent scaffolds for glycopeptides and proteins immobilization and act as intracellular carriers for these biomolecules. These findings open new perspectives in the application of carbon nano-onions as intracellular transporters in diverse biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta d'Amora
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Livorno, 60, 10144 Turin, Italy
| | - Viviana Maffeis
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Livorno, 60, 10144 Turin, Italy
| | - Rosaria Brescia
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Morego 30, 16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Danielle Barnes
- School of Chemistry and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute (TBSI), Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, D02 P902 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eoin Scanlan
- School of Chemistry and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute (TBSI), Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, D02 P902 Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Silvia Giordani
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Livorno, 60, 10144 Turin, Italy.
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University (DCU), Glasnevin, D09 C7F8 Dublin, Ireland.
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Diversity-oriented synthesis of blue emissive nitrogen heterocycles and their conjugation with carbon nano-onions. Front Chem Sci Eng 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11705-019-1833-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Revuri V, Cherukula K, Nafiujjaman M, Vijayan V, Jeong YY, Park IK, Lee YK. In Situ Oxygenic Nanopods Targeting Tumor Adaption to Hypoxia Potentiate Image-Guided Photothermal Therapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:19782-19792. [PMID: 31088067 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b03889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Tumor adaption to hypoxic stress not only plays a crucial role in tumor malignancy but also can protect cancer cells from therapeutic interventions. Hence, therapeutic strategies attenuating tumor hypoxia in conjunction with conventional therapies may be an ideal approach. Here, we report the application of in situ oxygenic carbon nano-onion (CNO)/manganese oxide nanopods (iOCOMs) as novel theranostic photothermal transducers to neutralize the oncogenic influence of the hypoxic tumor microenvironment (TME). The developed onion-ring-shaped carbon nanoparticles or carbon nano-onions (CNOs) and iOCOM nanopods (CNO embedded in MnO2 nanosheets) were biologically stable and nontoxic and showed photothermal activity under near-infrared laser irradiation (808 nm). In addition, iOCOM assisted in the dismutation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a potentially toxic reactive oxygen species that is secreted excessively by cancer cells in the hypoxic TME, resulting in in situ oxygenation and repolarization of the hypoxic TME to normoxia. The manganese ions released from iOCOM during the catalysis of H2O2 assisted in TME-responsive T1 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The in situ oxygenation by iOCOM in the hypoxic TME downregulated the secretion of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α, which subsequently interfered with the cancer cell proliferation, favored tumor angiogenesis, and most importantly prevented metastatic epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of tumor cells. Collectively, this work presents a new paradigm for antitumor strategies by targeting the tumor adaption to hypoxia in combination with photothermal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishnu Revuri
- Department of Green Bioengineering , Korea National University of Transportation , Daehak-ro 50 , Chungju 380-702 , Republic of Korea
| | | | - Md Nafiujjaman
- Department of Nanomedicine , Houston Methodist Research Institute , 6670 Bertner Avenue, R8-216 , Houston , Texas 77030 , United States
| | | | | | | | - Yong-Kyu Lee
- Department of Green Bioengineering , Korea National University of Transportation , Daehak-ro 50 , Chungju 380-702 , Republic of Korea
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d’Amora M, Camisasca A, Lettieri S, Giordani S. Toxicity Assessment of Carbon Nanomaterials in Zebrafish during Development. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2017; 7:E414. [PMID: 29186817 PMCID: PMC5746904 DOI: 10.3390/nano7120414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) are increasingly employed in nanomedicine as carriers for intracellular transport of drugs, imaging probes, and therapeutics agents, thanks to their unique optical and physicochemical properties. However, a better understanding about the effects of CNMs on a vertebrate model at the whole animal level is required. In this study, we compare the toxicity of oxidized carbon nano-onions (oxi-CNOs), oxidized carbon nano-horns (oxi-CNHs) and graphene oxide (GO) in zebrafish (Danio rerio). We evaluate the possible effects of these nanomaterials on zebrafish development by assessing different end-points and exposure periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta d’Amora
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144 Torino, Italy; (M.d.A.); (A.C.); (S.L.)
| | - Adalberto Camisasca
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144 Torino, Italy; (M.d.A.); (A.C.); (S.L.)
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Genoa, via Dodecaneso 31, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefania Lettieri
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144 Torino, Italy; (M.d.A.); (A.C.); (S.L.)
| | - Silvia Giordani
- Nano Carbon Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), via Livorno 60, 10144 Torino, Italy; (M.d.A.); (A.C.); (S.L.)
- Department of Chemistry, University of Turin, via Giuria 7, 10125 Turin, Italy
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