1
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Zhang S, Zhong R, Younis MR, He H, Xu H, Li G, Yang R, Lui S, Wang Y, Wu M. Hydrogel Applications in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioblastoma. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024. [PMID: 39366948 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c11855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a common malignant neurological tumor, has boundaries indistinguishable from those of normal tissue, making complete surgical removal ineffective. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) further impedes the efficacy of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, leading to suboptimal treatment outcomes and a heightened probability of recurrence. Hydrogels offer multiple advantages for GBM diagnosis and treatment, including overcoming the BBB for improved drug delivery, controlled drug release for long-term efficacy, and enhanced relaxation properties of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents. Hydrogels, with their excellent biocompatibility and customizability, can mimic the in vivo microenvironment, support tumor cell culture, enable drug screening, and facilitate the study of tumor invasion and metastasis. This paper reviews the classification of hydrogels and recent research for the diagnosis and treatment of GBM, including their applications as cell culture platforms and drugs including imaging contrast agents carriers. The mechanisms of drug release from hydrogels and methods to monitor the activity of hydrogel-loaded drugs are also discussed. This review is intended to facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the current state of GBM research. It offers insights into the design of integrated hydrogel-based GBM diagnosis and treatment with the objective of achieving the desired therapeutic effect and improving the prognosis of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaimei Zhang
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
| | - Renming Zhong
- Radiotherapy Physics & Technology Center, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
| | - Muhammad Rizwan Younis
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Hualong He
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
| | - Hong Xu
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
| | - Gaocan Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
| | - Ruiyan Yang
- Department of Biology, Macalester College, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55105, United States
| | - Su Lui
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yunbing Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
- Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
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2
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Pemmasani Prabakaran RS, Park SW, Lai JHC, Wang K, Xu J, Chen Z, Ilyas AMO, Liu H, Huang J, Chan KWY. Deep-learning-based super-resolution for accelerating chemical exchange saturation transfer MRI. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2024; 37:e5130. [PMID: 38491754 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.5130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI is a molecular imaging tool that provides physiological information about tissues, making it an invaluable tool for disease diagnosis and guided treatment. Its clinical application requires the acquisition of high-resolution images capable of accurately identifying subtle regional changes in vivo, while simultaneously maintaining a high level of spectral resolution. However, the acquisition of such high-resolution images is time consuming, presenting a challenge for practical implementation in clinical settings. Among several techniques that have been explored to reduce the acquisition time in MRI, deep-learning-based super-resolution (DLSR) is a promising approach to address this problem due to its adaptability to any acquisition sequence and hardware. However, its translation to CEST MRI has been hindered by the lack of the large CEST datasets required for network development. Thus, we aim to develop a DLSR method, named DLSR-CEST, to reduce the acquisition time for CEST MRI by reconstructing high-resolution images from fast low-resolution acquisitions. This is achieved by first pretraining the DLSR-CEST on human brain T1w and T2w images to initialize the weights of the network and then training the network on very small human and mouse brain CEST datasets to fine-tune the weights. Using the trained DLSR-CEST network, the reconstructed CEST source images exhibited improved spatial resolution in both peak signal-to-noise ratio and structural similarity index measure metrics at all downsampling factors (2-8). Moreover, amide CEST and relayed nuclear Overhauser effect maps extrapolated from the DLSR-CEST source images exhibited high spatial resolution and low normalized root mean square error, indicating a negligible loss in Z-spectrum information. Therefore, our DLSR-CEST demonstrated a robust reconstruction of high-resolution CEST source images from fast low-resolution acquisitions, thereby improving the spatial resolution and preserving most Z-spectrum information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohith Saai Pemmasani Prabakaran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong, China
| | - Se Weon Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong, China
| | - Joseph H C Lai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kexin Wang
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Research Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jiadi Xu
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Research Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Zilin Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Huabing Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianpan Huang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kannie W Y Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong, China
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, Hong Kong, China
- City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
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3
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Nguyen CT, Chow SKK, Nguyen HN, Liu T, Walls A, Withey S, Liebig P, Mueller M, Thierry B, Yang CT, Huang CJ. Formation of Zwitterionic and Self-Healable Hydrogels via Amino-yne Click Chemistry for Development of Cellular Scaffold and Tumor Spheroid Phantom for MRI. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:36157-36167. [PMID: 38973633 PMCID: PMC11261563 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c06917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
In situ-forming biocompatible hydrogels have great potential in various medical applications. Here, we introduce a pH-responsive, self-healable, and biocompatible hydrogel for cell scaffolds and the development of a tumor spheroid phantom for magnetic resonance imaging. The hydrogel (pMAD) was synthesized via amino-yne click chemistry between poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine-co-2-aminoethylmethacrylamide) and dialkyne polyethylene glycol. Rheology analysis, compressive mechanical testing, and gravimetric analysis were employed to investigate the gelation time, mechanical properties, equilibrium swelling, and degradability of pMAD hydrogels. The reversible enamine and imine bond mechanisms leading to the sol-to-gel transition in acidic conditions (pH ≤ 5) were observed. The pMAD hydrogel demonstrated potential as a cellular scaffold, exhibiting high viability and NIH-3T3 fibroblast cell encapsulation under mild conditions (37 °C, pH 7.4). Additionally, the pMAD hydrogel also demonstrated the capability for in vitro magnetic resonance imaging of glioblastoma tumor spheroids based on the chemical exchange saturation transfer effect. Given its advantages, the pMAD hydrogel emerges as a promising material for diverse biomedical applications, including cell carriers, bioimaging, and therapeutic agent delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cao Tuong
Vi Nguyen
- Department
of Chemical & Materials Engineering, National Central University, Jhong-Li, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan
| | - Steven Kwok Keung Chow
- Clinical
Research and Imaging Centre, South Australian
Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide 5001, Australia
| | - Hoang Nam Nguyen
- Department
of Chemical & Materials Engineering, National Central University, Jhong-Li, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan
| | - Tesi Liu
- Future
Industries Institute, University of South
Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Angela Walls
- Clinical
Research and Imaging Centre, South Australian
Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide 5001, Australia
| | | | | | - Marco Mueller
- Advanced
Clinical Imaging Technology, Siemens Healthineers International AG, Lausanne 1000, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin Thierry
- Future
Industries Institute, University of South
Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Chih-Tsung Yang
- Future
Industries Institute, University of South
Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Chun-Jen Huang
- Department
of Chemical & Materials Engineering, National Central University, Jhong-Li, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan
- R&D
Center for Membrane Technology, Chung Yuan
Christian University, 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li City 32023, Taiwan
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4
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Ding L, Xu F, Luo B, Cheng L, Huang L, Jia Y, Ding J. Preparation of Hematoporphyrin-Poly(Lactic Acid) Nanoparticles Encapsulated Perfluoropentane/Salicylic Acid for Enhanced US/CEST MR Bimodal Imaging. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:4589-4605. [PMID: 38799695 PMCID: PMC11127694 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s454486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Medical imaging modalities, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and fluorescence imaging, have gained widespread acceptance in clinical practice for tumor diagnosis. Each imaging modality has its own unique principles, advantages, and limitations, thus necessitating a multimodal approach for a comprehensive disease understanding of the disease process. To enhance diagnostic precision, physicians frequently integrate data from multiple imaging modalities, driving research advancements in multimodal imaging technology research. Methods In this study, hematoporphyrin-poly (lactic acid) (HP-PLLA) polymer was prepared via ring-opening polymerization and thoroughly characterized using FT-IR, 1H-NMR, XRD, and TGA. HP-PLLA based nanoparticles encapsulating perfluoropentane (PFP) and salicylic acid were prepared via emulsion-solvent evaporation. Zeta potential and mean diameter were assessed using DLS and TEM. Biocompatibility was evaluated via cell migration, hemolysis, and cytotoxicity assays. Ultrasonic imaging was performed with a dedicated apparatus, while CEST MRI was conducted using a 7.0 T animal scanner. Results We designed and prepared a novel dual-mode nanoimaging probe SA/PFP@HP-PLLA NPs. PFP enhanced US imaging, while salicylic acid bolstered CEST imaging. With an average size of 74.43 ± 1.12 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.175 ± 0.015, and a surface zeta potential of -64.1 ± 2.11 mV. These NPs exhibit excellent biocompatibility and stability. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed the SA/PFP@HP-PLLA NP's ability to improve tumor characterization and diagnostic precision. Conclusion The SA/PFP@HP-PLLA NPs demonstrate promising dual-modality imaging capabilities, indicating their potential for preclinical and clinical use as a contrast agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqiong Ding
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fengnan Xu
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Binhua Luo
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liyuan Cheng
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingping Huang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Xianning Central Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanlong Jia
- Department of Radiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jieqiong Ding
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China
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5
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Sanati M, Amin Yavari S. Liposome-integrated hydrogel hybrids: Promising platforms for cancer therapy and tissue regeneration. J Control Release 2024; 368:703-727. [PMID: 38490373 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.03.008] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Drug delivery platforms have gracefully emerged as an indispensable component of novel cancer chemotherapy, bestowing targeted drug distribution, elevating therapeutic effects, and reducing the burden of unwanted side effects. In this context, hybrid delivery systems artfully harnessing the virtues of liposomes and hydrogels bring remarkable benefits, especially for localized cancer therapy, including intensified stability, excellent amenability to hydrophobic and hydrophilic medications, controlled liberation behavior, and appropriate mucoadhesion to mucopenetration shift. Moreover, three-dimensional biocompatible liposome-integrated hydrogel networks have attracted unprecedented interest in tissue regeneration, given their tunable architecture and physicochemical properties, as well as enhanced mechanical support. This review elucidates and presents cutting-edge developments in recruiting liposome-integrated hydrogel systems for cancer treatment and tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Sanati
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran; Experimental and Animal Study Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.
| | - Saber Amin Yavari
- Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Regenerative Medicine Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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6
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Park SW, Lai JHC, Han X, Leung VWM, Xiao P, Huang J, Chan KWY. Preclinical Application of CEST MRI to Detect Early and Regional Tumor Response to Local Brain Tumor Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:101. [PMID: 38258112 PMCID: PMC10820766 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Treating glioblastoma and monitoring treatment response non-invasively remain challenging. Here, we developed a robust approach using a drug-loaded liposomal hydrogel that is mechanically compatible with the brain, and, simultaneously, we successfully monitored early tumor response using Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) MRI. This CEST-detectable liposomal hydrogel was optimized based on a sustainable drug release and a soft hydrogel for the brain tumor, which is unfavorable for tumor cell proliferation. After injecting the hydrogel next to the tumor, three distinctive CEST contrasts enabled the monitoring of tumor response and drug release longitudinally at 3T. As a result, a continuous tumor volume decrease was observed in the treatment group along with a significant decrease in CEST contrasts relating to the tumor response at 3.5 ppm (Amide Proton Transfer; APT) and at -3.5 ppm (relayed Nuclear Overhauser Effect; rNOE) when compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Interestingly, the molecular change at 3.5 ppm on day 3 (p < 0.05) was found to be prior to the significant decrease in tumor volume on day 5. An APT signal also showed a strong correlation with the number of proliferating cells in the tumors. This demonstrated that APT detected a distinctive decrease in mobile proteins and peptides in tumors before the change in tumor morphology. Moreover, the APT signal showed a regional response to the treatment, associated with proliferating and apoptotic cells, which allowed an in-depth evaluation and prediction of the tumor treatment response. This newly developed liposomal hydrogel allows image-guided brain tumor treatment to address clinical needs using CEST MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Weon Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.); (X.H.); (P.X.)
- Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE), Hong Kong, China
| | - Joseph H. C. Lai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.); (X.H.); (P.X.)
| | - Xiongqi Han
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.); (X.H.); (P.X.)
| | - Vivian W. M. Leung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.); (X.H.); (P.X.)
| | - Peng Xiao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.); (X.H.); (P.X.)
| | - Jianpan Huang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Kannie W. Y. Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.); (X.H.); (P.X.)
- Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE), Hong Kong, China
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
- Shenzhen Research Institute, City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518057, China
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7
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Hasan I, Roy S, Ehexige E, Wu R, Chen Y, Gao Z, Guo B, Chang C. A state-of-the-art liposome technology for glioblastoma treatment. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:18108-18138. [PMID: 37937394 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr04241c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a challenging problem due to the poor BBB permeability of cancer drugs, its recurrence after the treatment, and high malignancy and is difficult to treat with the currently available therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, the prognosis and survival rate of GBM are still poor after surgical removal via conventional combination therapy. Owing to the existence of the formidable blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the aggressive, infiltrating nature of GBM growth, the diagnosis and treatment of GBM are quite challenging. Recently, liposomes and their derivatives have emerged as super cargos for the delivery of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs for the treatment of glioblastoma because of their advantages, such as biocompatibility, long circulation, and ease of physical and chemical modification, which facilitate the capability of targeting specific sites, circumvention of BBB transport restrictions, and amplification of the therapeutic efficacy. Herein, we provide a timely update on the burgeoning liposome-based drug delivery systems and potential challenges in these fields for the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors. Furthermore, we focus on the most recent liposome-based drug delivery cargos, including pH-sensitive, temperature-sensitive, and biomimetic liposomes, to enhance the multimodality in imaging and therapeutics of glioblastoma. Furthermore, we highlight the future difficulties and directions for the research and clinical translation of liposome-based drug delivery. Hopefully, this review will trigger the interest of researchers to expedite the development of liposome cargos and even their clinical translation for improving the prognosis of glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikram Hasan
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, China.
| | - Shubham Roy
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Carbon Materials Research and Comprehensive Application and School of Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Flexible Printed Electronics Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ehexige Ehexige
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, China.
| | - Runling Wu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, China.
| | - Yu Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Carbon Materials Research and Comprehensive Application and School of Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Flexible Printed Electronics Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Zhengyuan Gao
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, China.
| | - Bing Guo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Carbon Materials Research and Comprehensive Application and School of Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Flexible Printed Electronics Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chunqi Chang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, China.
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8
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Di Gregorio E, Rosa E, Ferrauto G, Diaferia C, Gallo E, Accardo A, Terreno E. Development of cationic peptide-based hydrogels loaded with iopamidol for CEST-MRI detection. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:7435-7441. [PMID: 37435712 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb00187c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Peptide-based hydrogels have been recently investigated as materials for biomedical applications like tissue engineering and delivery of drugs and imaging agents. Among the synthetic peptide hydrogelators, the cationic hexapeptides Ac-K1 and Ac-K2 were proposed as scaffolds for bioprinting applications. Here, we report the formulation of Ac-K1 and Ac-K2 hydrogels loaded with iopamidol, an iodinated contrast agent clinically approved for X-ray computed tomography, and more recently identified as an efficient CEST-MRI probe. Iopamidol-loaded hydrogels were soft, injectable and non-toxic both in vitro (on three tumor cell lines: GL261, TS/A and 3T3-NIH) and in vivo (in Balb/c mice inoculated with TS/A breast cancer cells). The in vitro CEST-MRI study evidenced the typical features of the CEST pattern of iopamidol, with a CEST contrast higher than 50%. Due to their injectability and good ability to retain the contrast agent, the herein investigated systems can be considered as promising candidates for the development of smart MRI detectable hydrogels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enza Di Gregorio
- Molecular and Preclinical Imaging Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Nizza 52, Turin, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Rosa
- Department of Pharmacy and Interuniversity Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB) "Carlo Pedone", University of Naples "Federico II", Via D. Montesano 49, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ferrauto
- Molecular and Preclinical Imaging Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Nizza 52, Turin, Italy.
| | - Carlo Diaferia
- Department of Pharmacy and Interuniversity Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB) "Carlo Pedone", University of Naples "Federico II", Via D. Montesano 49, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Enrico Gallo
- IRCCS Synlab SDN, Via Gianturco 113, Naples, 80143, Italy
| | - Antonella Accardo
- Department of Pharmacy and Interuniversity Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB) "Carlo Pedone", University of Naples "Federico II", Via D. Montesano 49, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Enzo Terreno
- Molecular and Preclinical Imaging Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Nizza 52, Turin, Italy.
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9
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Longo DL, Carella A, Corrado A, Pirotta E, Mohanta Z, Singh A, Stabinska J, Liu G, McMahon MT. A snapshot of the vast array of diamagnetic CEST MRI contrast agents. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2023; 36:e4715. [PMID: 35187749 PMCID: PMC9724179 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.4715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Since the inception of CEST MRI in the 1990s, a number of compounds have been identified as suitable for generating contrast, including paramagnetic lanthanide complexes, hyperpolarized atom cages and, most interesting, diamagnetic compounds. In the past two decades, there has been a major emphasis in this field on the identification and application of diamagnetic compounds that have suitable biosafety profiles for usage in medical applications. Even in the past five years there has been a tremendous growth in their numbers, with more and more emphasis being placed on finding those that can be ultimately used for patient studies on clinical 3 T scanners. At this point, a number of endogenous compounds present in tissue have been identified, and also natural and synthetic organic compounds that can be administered to highlight pathology via CEST imaging. Here we will provide a very extensive snapshot of the types of diamagnetic compound that can generate CEST MRI contrast, together with guidance on their utility on typical preclinical and clinical scanners and a review of the applications that might benefit the most from this new technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Livio Longo
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Turin, Italy
| | - Antonella Carella
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Turin, Italy
| | - Alessia Corrado
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Turin, Italy
| | - Elisa Pirotta
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Turin, Italy
| | - Zinia Mohanta
- F.M. Kirby Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Aruna Singh
- F.M. Kirby Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Julia Stabinska
- F.M. Kirby Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Guanshu Liu
- F.M. Kirby Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael T. McMahon
- F.M. Kirby Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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10
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Ferrauto G, Terreno E. Compartmentalized agents: A powerful strategy for enhancing the detection sensitivity of chemical exchange saturation transfer contrast. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2023; 36:e4791. [PMID: 35731545 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.4791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Since the very beginnings of the chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) technique, poor overall sensitivity has appeared to be one of its strongest limitations for future applications. Research has therefore focused on designing systems, such as supramolecular and nanosized agents, that contain a high number of magnetically equivalent mobile spins. However, the number of mobile spins offered by these systems is still limited by their composition and surface/volume ratio. The design of compartmentalized agents, that is, systems where an aqueous inner core is separated from the MRI-detected bulk pool via a semipermeable barrier/membrane, is very much a step forward for the technique. These vesicular systems can (i) act as biocompatible and versatile carriers for dia-, para-, and hetero-nuclear CEST probes, thus offering new application options; and (ii) act as CEST probes themselves via the encapsulation of a suitable agent (e.g., a paramagnetic shift reagent) that can change the resonance frequency of the spin pool in the inner compartment only. LipoCEST agents were the pioneers in the latter category, as they are able to grant picomolar sensitivity (in terms of nanoparticle concentration), and paved the way for new applications for CEST agents, especially in the theranostic research area. The use of larger, natural vesicular systems, such as yeasts and cells, in which the huge number of intravesicular spins lowers the detection threshold to a femtomolar limit, is a further step forward in the development of compartmentalized CEST agents. Finally, interesting combinations of nanovesicular and cellular compartmentalized systems have been proposed, thus highlighting how the approach has the potential to drive CEST agents towards completing their journey to mature clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Ferrauto
- Center for Molecular and Preclinical Imaging, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Enzo Terreno
- Center for Molecular and Preclinical Imaging, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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11
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Chen Z, Huang J, Lai JHC, Tse KH, Xu J, Chan KWY. Chemical exchange saturation transfer MRI detects myelin changes in cuprizone mouse model at 3T. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2023:e4937. [PMID: 36965064 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.4937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) sensitively detects molecular alterations in the brain, such as relayed nuclear Overhauser effect (rNOE) CEST contrast at -3.5 ppm representing aliphatic protons in both lipids and proteins, and CEST contrast at 3.5 ppm correlating with amide proton in proteins. Myelin is rich in lipids and proteins, and therefore CEST can be explored as a biomarker for myelin pathology, which could contribute to the diagnosis and prognosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). In the current study, we investigate the specificity of aliphatic rNOE and the amide pool in myelin detection using the cuprizone (CPZ) mouse model, which recapitulates the demyelination and remyelination of MS. In this study, preclinical 3T MRI was performed in 19 male C57BL/6 mice. Mice in the normal control (NC) group (n = 9) were fed a normal diet for the whole course, while mice in the CPZ group (n = 10) were fed with CPZ for 10 weeks, followed by 4 weeks with a normal diet. The CEST contrast of rNOE (-3.5 ppm) and amide (3.5 ppm) in brain regions of the corpus callosum (CC) and the caudate putamen were compared. Statistical differences between the groups were calculated using two-way ANOVA. We observed significantly decreased rNOE (NC: 4.85% ± 0.09%/s vs. CPZ: 3.88% ± 0.18%/s, p = 0.007) and amide pool (NC: 3.20% ± 0.10%/s vs. CPZ: 2.46% ± 0.16%/s, p = 0.02) in the CC after 8 weeks on CPZ diet (p < 0.05). Moreover, the rNOE in the CPZ group recovered to a level comparable with the NC group at week 14 (p = 0.39), while amide remained at a level as low as that for the NC group (p = 0.051). Significant rNOE and amide changes, validated by immunohistochemistry results for demyelination and remyelination, demonstrate the huge potential of CEST for revealing myelin pathology, which has implications for MS identification at the clinical field strength of 3T.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilin Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianpan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Joseph H C Lai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kai-Hei Tse
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jiadi Xu
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kannie W Y Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE), Hong Kong, China
- City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
- Tung Biomedical Science Centre, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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12
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Law LH, Huang J, Xiao P, Liu Y, Chen Z, Lai JHC, Han X, Cheng GWY, Tse KH, Chan KWY. Multiple CEST contrast imaging of nose-to-brain drug delivery using iohexol liposomes at 3T MRI. J Control Release 2023; 354:208-220. [PMID: 36623695 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Image guided nose-to-brain drug delivery provides a non-invasive way to monitor drug delivered to the brain, and the intranasal administration could increase effective dose via bypassing Blood Brain Barrier (BBB). Here, we investigated the imaging of liposome-based drug delivery to the brain via intranasal administration, in which the liposome could penetrate mucus and could be detected by chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 3T field strength. Liposomes were loaded with a computed tomography (CT) contrast agent, iohexol (Ioh-Lipo), which has specific amide protons exchanging at 4.3 ppm of Z-spectrum (or CEST spectrum). Ioh-Lipo generated CEST contrasts of 35.4% at 4.3 ppm, 1.8% at -3.4 ppm and 20.6% at 1.2 ppm in vitro. After intranasal administration, these specific CEST contrasts were observed in both olfactory bulb (OB) and frontal lobe (FL) in the case of 10% polyethylene glycol (PEG) Ioh-Lipo. We observed obvious increases in CEST contrast in OB half an hour after the injection of 10% PEG Ioh-Lipo, with a percentage increase of 62.0% at 4.3 ppm, 10.9% at -3.4 ppm and 25.7% at 1.2 ppm. Interestingly, the CEST map at 4.3 ppm was distinctive from that at -3.4 pm and 1.2 ppm. The highest contrast of 4.3 ppm was at the external plexiform layer (EPL) and the region between left and right OB (LROB), while the CEST contrast at -3.4 ppm had no significant difference among all investigated regions with slightly higher signal in olfactory limbus (OL, between OB and FL) and FL, as validated with histology. While no substantial increase of CEST contrast at 4.3 ppm, -3.4 ppm or 1.2 ppm was observed in OB and FL when 1% PEG Ioh-Lipo was administered. We demonstrated for the first time the feasibility of non-invasively detecting the nose-to-brain delivery of liposomes using CEST MRI. This multiple-contrast approach is necessary to image the specific distribution of iohexol and liposome simultaneously and independently, especially when designing drug carriers for nose-to-brain drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lok Hin Law
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianpan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Peng Xiao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zilin Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Joseph H C Lai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiongqi Han
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gerald W Y Cheng
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kai-Hei Tse
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kannie W Y Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China; Tung Biomedical Science Centre, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong, China.
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13
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Xiao P, Huang J, Han X, Cheu JWS, Liu Y, Law LH, Lai JHC, Li J, Park SW, Wong CCL, Lam RHW, Chan KWY. Monitor Tumor pHe and Response Longitudinally during Treatment Using CEST MRI-Detectable Alginate Microbeads. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:54401-54410. [PMID: 36448714 PMCID: PMC9756293 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c10493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Imaging pHe of the tumor microenvironment has paramount importance for characterizing aggressive, invasive tumors, as well as therapeutic responses. Here, a robust approach to image pH changes in the tumor microenvironment longitudinally and during sodium bicarbonate treatment was reported. The pH-sensing microbeads were designed and prepared based on materials approved for clinical use, i.e., alginate microbead-containing computed tomography (CT) contrast-agent (iopamidol)-loaded liposomes (Iop-lipobeads). This Iop-lipobead prepared using a customized microfluidic device generated a CEST contrast of 10.6% at 4.2 ppm at pH 7.0, which was stable for 20 days in vitro. The CEST contrast decreased by 11.8% when the pH decreased from 7.0 to 6.5 in vitro. Optimized Iop-lipobeads next to tumors showed a significant increase of 19.7 ± 6.1% (p < 0.01) in CEST contrast at 4.2 ppm during the first 3 days of treatment and decreased to 15.2 ± 4.8% when treatment stopped. Notably, percentage changes in Iop-lipobeads were higher than that of amide CEST (11.7% and 9.1%) in tumors during and after treatment. These findings demonstrated that the Iop-lipobead could provide an independent and sensitive assessment of the pHe changes for a noninvasive and longitudinal monitoring of the treatment effects using multiple CEST contrast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xiao
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, City University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianpan Huang
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, City University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiongqi Han
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, City University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jacinth W. S. Cheu
- Department
of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine,
The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, City University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lok Hin Law
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, City University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Joseph H. C. Lai
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, City University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jiyu Li
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, City University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Se Weon Park
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, City University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Carmen C. L. Wong
- Department
of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine,
The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State
Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Raymond H. W. Lam
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, City University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kannie W. Y. Chan
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, City University
of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- City
University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
- Russell
H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- Tung
Biomedical
Sciences Centre, City University of Hong
Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Hong
Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong, China
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14
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Saroglu O, Karadag A, Cakmak ZHT, Karasu S. The formulation and microstructural, rheological, and textural characterization of salep-xanthan gum-based liposomal gels. Polym Bull (Berl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00289-022-04546-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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15
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Som A, Rosenboom JG, Chandler A, Sheth RA, Wehrenberg-Klee E. Image-guided intratumoral immunotherapy: Developing a clinically practical technology. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 189:114505. [PMID: 36007674 PMCID: PMC10456124 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized the contemporary oncology landscape, with durable responses possible across a range of cancer types. However, the majority of cancer patients do not respond to immunotherapy due to numerous immunosuppressive barriers. Efforts to overcome these barriers and increase systemic immunotherapy efficacy have sparked interest in the local intratumoral delivery of immune stimulants to activate the local immune response and subsequently drive systemic tumor immunity. While clinical evaluation of many therapeutic candidates is ongoing, development is hindered by a lack of imaging confirmation of local delivery, insufficient intratumoral drug distribution, and a need for repeated injections. The use of polymeric drug delivery systems, which have been widely used as platforms for both image guidance and controlled drug release, holds promise for delivery of intratumoral immunoadjuvants and the development of an in situ cancer vaccine for patients with metastatic cancer. In this review, we explore the current state of the field for intratumoral delivery and methods for optimizing controlled drug release, as well as practical considerations for drug delivery design to be optimized for clinical image guided delivery particularly by CT and ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avik Som
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States; Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, United States
| | - Jan-Georg Rosenboom
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States; Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, United States; Department of Gastroenterology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, United States
| | - Alana Chandler
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States; Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, United States; Department of Gastroenterology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, United States
| | - Rahul A Sheth
- Department of Interventional Radiology, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, United States
| | - Eric Wehrenberg-Klee
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States.
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16
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Huang J, Chen Z, Park SW, Lai JHC, Chan KWY. Molecular Imaging of Brain Tumors and Drug Delivery Using CEST MRI: Promises and Challenges. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:451. [PMID: 35214183 PMCID: PMC8880023 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) detects molecules in their natural forms in a sensitive and non-invasive manner. This makes it a robust approach to assess brain tumors and related molecular alterations using endogenous molecules, such as proteins/peptides, and drugs approved for clinical use. In this review, we will discuss the promises of CEST MRI in the identification of tumors, tumor grading, detecting molecular alterations related to isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) and O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), assessment of treatment effects, and using multiple contrasts of CEST to develop theranostic approaches for cancer treatments. Promising applications include (i) using the CEST contrast of amide protons of proteins/peptides to detect brain tumors, such as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and low-grade gliomas; (ii) using multiple CEST contrasts for tumor stratification, and (iii) evaluation of the efficacy of drug delivery without the need of metallic or radioactive labels. These promising applications have raised enthusiasm, however, the use of CEST MRI is not trivial. CEST contrast depends on the pulse sequences, saturation parameters, methods used to analyze the CEST spectrum (i.e., Z-spectrum), and, importantly, how to interpret changes in CEST contrast and related molecular alterations in the brain. Emerging pulse sequence designs and data analysis approaches, including those assisted with deep learning, have enhanced the capability of CEST MRI in detecting molecules in brain tumors. CEST has become a specific marker for tumor grading and has the potential for prognosis and theranostics in brain tumors. With increasing understanding of the technical aspects and associated molecular alterations detected by CEST MRI, this young field is expected to have wide clinical applications in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianpan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.H.); (Z.C.); (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.)
| | - Zilin Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.H.); (Z.C.); (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.)
| | - Se-Weon Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.H.); (Z.C.); (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.)
- Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE), Hong Kong, China
| | - Joseph H. C. Lai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.H.); (Z.C.); (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.)
| | - Kannie W. Y. Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.H.); (Z.C.); (S.-W.P.); (J.H.C.L.)
- Hong Kong Centre for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE), Hong Kong, China
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Shenzhen Research Institute, City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518057, China
- Tung Biomedical Science Centre, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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17
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Dong YC, Bouché M, Uman S, Burdick JA, Cormode DP. Detecting and Monitoring Hydrogels with Medical Imaging. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2021; 7:4027-4047. [PMID: 33979137 PMCID: PMC8440385 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c01547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hydrogels, water-swollen polymer networks, are being applied to numerous biomedical applications, such as drug delivery and tissue engineering, due to their potential tunable rheologic properties, injectability into tissues, and encapsulation and release of therapeutics. Despite their promise, it is challenging to assess their properties in vivo and crucial information such as hydrogel retention at the site of administration and in situ degradation kinetics are often lacking. To address this, technologies to evaluate and track hydrogels in vivo with various imaging techniques have been developed in recent years, including hydrogels functionalized with contrast generating material that can be imaged with methods such as X-ray computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), optical imaging, and nuclear imaging systems. In this review, we will discuss emerging approaches to label hydrogels for imaging, review the advantages and limitations of these imaging techniques, and highlight examples where such techniques have been implemented in biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi C Dong
- Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Mathilde Bouché
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, L2CM UMR 7053, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Selen Uman
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Jason A Burdick
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - David P Cormode
- Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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18
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Han X, Lai JHC, Huang J, Park SW, Liu Y, Chan KWY. Imaging Self-Healing Hydrogels and Chemotherapeutics Using CEST MRI at 3 T. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2021; 4:5605-5616. [PMID: 35006724 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.1c00411] [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: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Imaging hydrogel-based local drug delivery to the brain after tumor resection has implications for refining treatments, especially for brain tumors with poor prognosis and high recurrence rate. Here, we developed a series of self-healing chitosan-dextran (CD)-based hydrogels for drug delivery to the brain. These hydrogels are injectable, self-healing, mechanically compatible, and detectable by chemical exchange saturation transfer magnetic resonance imaging (CEST MRI). CD hydrogels have an inherent CEST contrast at 1.1 ppm, which decreases as the stiffness increases. We further examined the rheological properties and CEST contrast of various chemotherapeutic-loaded CD hydrogels, including gemcitabine (Gem), doxorubicin, and procarbazine. Among these formulations, Gem presented the best compatibility with the rheological (G': 215.3 ± 4.5 Pa) and CEST properties of CD hydrogels. More importantly, the Gem-loaded CD hydrogel generated another CEST readout at 2.2 ppm (11.6 ± 0.1%) for monitoring Gem. This enabled independent and simultaneous imaging of the drug and hydrogel integrity using a clinically relevant 3 T MRI scanner. In addition, the Gem-loaded CD hydrogel exhibited a longitudinal antitumor efficacy of Gem over a week in vitro. Furthermore, the CD hydrogel could be visualized by CEST after brain injection with a contrast of 7.38 ± 2.31%. These natural labels on both the chemotherapeutics and hydrogels demonstrate unique image-guided local drug delivery for brain applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiongqi Han
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Joseph Ho Chi Lai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Jianpan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Se Weon Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Kannie Wai Yan Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong.,Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore MD21205, United States.,Shenzhen Research Institute, City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518057, China
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19
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Wang F, Chen J, Liu J, Zeng H. Cancer theranostic platforms based on injectable polymer hydrogels. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:3543-3575. [PMID: 33634800 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm02149k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Theranostic platforms that combine therapy with diagnosis not only prevent the undesirable biological responses that may occur when these processes are conducted separately, but also allow individualized therapies for patients. Polymer hydrogels have been employed to provide well-controlled drug release and targeted therapy in theranostics, where injectable hydrogels enable non-invasive treatment and monitoring with a single injection, offering greater patient comfort and efficient therapy. Efforts have been focused on applying injectable polymer hydrogels in theranostic research and clinical use. This review highlights recent progress in the design of injectable polymer hydrogels for cancer theranostics, particularly focusing on the elements/components of theranostic hydrogels, and their cross-linking strategies, structures, and performance with regard to drug delivery/tracking. Therapeutic agents and tracking modalities that are essential components of the theranostic platforms are introduced, and the design strategies, properties and applications of the injectable hydrogels developed via two approaches, namely chemical bonds and physical interactions, are described. The theranostic functions of the platforms are highly dependent on the architecture and components employed for the construction of hydrogels. Challenges currently presented by theranostic platforms based on injectable hydrogels are identified, and prospects of acquiring more comfortable and personalized therapies are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifei Wang
- The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510700, China. and Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1H9, Canada.
| | - Jingsi Chen
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1H9, Canada.
| | - Jifang Liu
- The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510700, China.
| | - Hongbo Zeng
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1H9, Canada.
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20
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Zhao W, Yu X, Peng S, Luo Y, Li J, Lu L. Construction of nanomaterials as contrast agents or probes for glioma imaging. J Nanobiotechnology 2021; 19:125. [PMID: 33941206 PMCID: PMC8091158 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-021-00866-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant glioma remains incurable largely due to the aggressive and infiltrative nature, as well as the existence of blood-brain-barrier (BBB). Precise diagnosis of glioma, which aims to accurately delineate the tumor boundary for guiding surgical resection and provide reliable feedback of the therapeutic outcomes, is the critical step for successful treatment. Numerous imaging modalities have been developed for the efficient diagnosis of tumors from structural or functional aspects. However, the presence of BBB largely hampers the entrance of contrast agents (Cas) or probes into the brain, rendering the imaging performance highly compromised. The development of nanomaterials provides promising strategies for constructing nano-sized Cas or probes for accurate imaging of glioma owing to the BBB crossing ability and other unique advantages of nanomaterials, such as high loading capacity and stimuli-responsive properties. In this review, the recent progress of nanomaterials applied in single modal imaging modality and multimodal imaging for a comprehensive diagnosis is thoroughly summarized. Finally, the prospects and challenges are offered with the hope for its better development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhao
- Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiangrong Yu
- Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
| | - Shaojun Peng
- Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Luo
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jingchao Li
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China.
| | - Ligong Lu
- Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China.
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21
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Wei L, Wang Z, Feng C, Xianyu Y, Chen Y. Direct Transverse Relaxation Time Biosensing Strategy for Detecting Foodborne Pathogens through Enzyme-Mediated Sol-Gel Transition of Hydrogels. Anal Chem 2021; 93:6613-6619. [PMID: 33886309 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c03968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In this work, we develop a direct transverse relaxation time (T2) biosensing strategy and employ it for assaying foodborne pathogens relying on the alkaline phosphatase (ALP)-mediated sol-gel transition of hydrogels. ALP can catalyze the reaction to generate an acidic environment to transform the sol-state alginate solution to hydrogel, and this hydrogelation process can directly regulate the diffusion rate of water protons that results in a T2 change of water molecules. By means of enzyme-modulated sol-gel transition and antigen-antibody interactions, this T2 biosensor displays high sensitivity for detecting 50 CFU/mL S. enteritidis within 2 h. This biosensing strategy directly modulates the water molecules rather than magnetic probes in traditional methods, offering a straightforward, novel, and sensitive platform for pathogen detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyu Wei
- College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Shizishan Street, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment Correlative Dietology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Ministry of Education, Shizishan Street, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Zhilong Wang
- College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Shizishan Street, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment Correlative Dietology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Ministry of Education, Shizishan Street, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Caiwei Feng
- Beijing Kwinbon Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Gaoxin 4th Street, Changping District Beijing 100190, China
| | - Yunlei Xianyu
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhang Tang Road, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, China.,Ningbo Research Institute, Zhejiang University, No. 1 Qianhu South Road, Ningbo 315100, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiping Chen
- College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Shizishan Street, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment Correlative Dietology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Ministry of Education, Shizishan Street, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
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22
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Mamoune KE, Barantin L, Adriaensen H, Tillet Y. Application of Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) in neuroimaging. J Chem Neuroanat 2021; 114:101944. [PMID: 33716103 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2021.101944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Since the early eighties MRI has become the most powerful technic for in-vivo imaging particularly in the field of brain research. This non-invasive method allows acute anatomical observations of the living brain similar to post-mortem dissected tissues. However, one of the main limitation of MRI is that it does not make possible the neurochemical identification of the tissues conversely to positron emission tomography scanner which can provide a specific molecular characterization of tissue, in spite of poor anatomical definition. To gain neurochemical information using MRI, new categories of contrast agents were developed from the beginning of the 2000's, particularly using the chemical-exchange saturation transfer (CEST) method. This method induces a significant change in the magnitude of the water proton signal and allows the detection of specific molecules within the tissues like sugars, amino acids, transmitters, and nucleosides. This short review presents several CEST contrast agents and their recent developments for in vivo detection of metabolites and neurotransmitters in the brain for research and clinical purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kahina El Mamoune
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, UMR 085 INRAE, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, Centre INRAE Val de Loire, 37380 Nouzilly, France; Siemens Healthcare SAS, Saint Denis, France; SFR FED 4226, Université de Tours, 2 Bd Tonnellé, 37032 Tours, France
| | - Laurent Barantin
- iBrain, UMR 1253 INSERM, Université de Tours, 10 Bd Tonnellé, 37032 Tours, France; SFR FED 4226, Université de Tours, 2 Bd Tonnellé, 37032 Tours, France
| | - Hans Adriaensen
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, UMR 085 INRAE, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, Centre INRAE Val de Loire, 37380 Nouzilly, France; CIRE UMR 085 INRAE, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, Centre INRAE Val de Loire, 37380 Nouzilly, France; SFR FED 4226, Université de Tours, 2 Bd Tonnellé, 37032 Tours, France
| | - Yves Tillet
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, UMR 085 INRAE, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, Centre INRAE Val de Loire, 37380 Nouzilly, France; SFR FED 4226, Université de Tours, 2 Bd Tonnellé, 37032 Tours, France.
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23
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Abstract
Mounting evidence shows the great promise of nanoparticle drug delivery systems (nano-DDSs) to improve delivery efficiency and reduce off-target adverse effects. By tracking drug delivery and distribution, monitoring nanoparticle degradation and drug release, aiding and optimizing treatment planning, and directing the design of more robust nano-DDSs, image guidance has become a vital component of nanomedicine. Recently, chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as an attempting imaging method for achieving image-guided drug delivery. One of the unbeatable advantages of CEST MRI is its ability to detect diamagnetic compounds that cannot be detected using conventional MRI methods, making a broad spectrum of bioorganic agents, natural compounds, even nano-carriers directly MRI detectable in a high-spatial-resolution manner. To date, CEST MRI has become a versatile and powerful imaging technology for non-invasive in vivo tracking of nanoparticles and their loaded drugs. In this review, we will provide a concise overview of different forms of recently developed, CEST MRI trackable nano-DDSs, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, self-assembled drug-based nanoparticles, and carbon dots. The potential applications and future perspectives will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Han
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology & Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
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24
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Berry DB, Englund EK, Chen S, Frank LR, Ward SR. Medical imaging of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine constructs. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:301-314. [PMID: 32776044 PMCID: PMC8262082 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm00705f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Advancement of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM) strategies to replicate tissue structure and function has led to the need for noninvasive assessment of key outcome measures of a construct's state, biocompatibility, and function. Histology based approaches are traditionally used in pre-clinical animal experiments, but are not always feasible or practical if a TERM construct is going to be tested for human use. In order to transition these therapies from benchtop to bedside, rigorously validated imaging techniques must be utilized that are sensitive to key outcome measures that fulfill the FDA standards for TERM construct evaluation. This review discusses key outcome measures for TERM constructs and various clinical- and research-based imaging techniques that can be used to assess them. Potential applications and limitations of these techniques are discussed, as well as resources for the processing, analysis, and interpretation of biomedical images.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Berry
- Departments of NanoEngineering, University of California, San Diego, USA.
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25
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Misra R, Acharya S. Smart nanotheranostic hydrogels for on-demand cancer management. Drug Discov Today 2020; 26:344-359. [PMID: 33212236 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2020.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Theranostics is a revolution in cancer therapy. Hydrogels have many implications as a drug delivery vehicle and theranostics hydrogels could be a model nanotherapeutic for simultaneous cancer diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjita Misra
- Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, 600119, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Sarbari Acharya
- Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
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