Upcycling of post-consumer polyethylene terephthalate bottles into aluminum-based metal-organic framework adsorbents for efficient orthophosphate removal

2-Phosphonobutane-1,2,4,-tricarboxylic acid (PBTC) is an orthophosphate compound widely used as an antiscalant chemical and corrosion inhibitor in manufacturing. However, PBTC poses persistent environmental concerns due to its stability and resistance to conventional water treatment. In addressing the issues of PBTC in aquatic systems, Al-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have been developed and applied as sustainable adsorbents. The materials are synthesized from terephthalic acid (TPA) linkers derived from upcycling products of post-consumer polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles. The PET-derived linker was prepared using alkaline hydrolysis followed by acidification and employed in forming MIL-53 (Al), with a comparative assessment against the corresponding MOFs made from commercial-grade TPA. The structures and properties of the materials were characterized with microscopic and spectroscopic methods. The synthesized adsorbents achieved a phosphate adsorption capacity of 826 mg/g at pH 5, with kinetics fitting a pseudo-second-order model and isotherm patterns aligning with Langmuir, Freundlich, and Sips models, indicative of diverse adsorption on heterogeneous surfaces. The results highlight the role of electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding mechanisms in PBTC adsorption. The eco-friendly materials with high adsorption performance offer an innovative route for sustainable waste management and water purification.

Enhancing leptospirosis control with nanosensing technology: A critical analysis

Leptospirosis is a serious health problem in tropical areas; thus, animals shed leptospires in the environment. Humans are accidental hosts infected through exposure to contaminating bacteria in the environment. One health strategy can be applied to protect and eliminate leptospirosis because this cooperates and coordinates activities between doctors, veterinarians, and ecologists. However, conventional methods still have limitations. Therefore, the main challenges of leptospirosis control are the high sensing of detection methods to screen and control the pathogens. Interestingly, nano sensing combined with a leptospirosis detection approach can increase the sensitivity and eliminate some limitations. This article reviews nanomaterial development for an advanced leptospirosis detection method, e.g., latex beads-based agglutination test, magnetic nanoparticles enrichment, and gold-nanoparticles-based immunochromatographic assay. Thus, nanomaterials can be functionalized with biomolecules or sensing molecules utilized in various mechanisms such as biosensors. Over the last decade, many biosensors have been developed for Leptospira spp. pathogen and others. The evolution of biosensors for leptospirosis detection was designed for high efficiency and might be an alternative tool. In addition, the high-sensing fabrications are useful for leptospires screening in very low levels, for example, soil or water from the environment.

Progress and Perspectives in Colon Cancer Pathology, Diagnosis, and Treatments

Worldwide, colon cancer is the third most frequent malignancy and the second most common cause of death. Although it can strike anybody at any age, colon cancer mostly affects the elderly. Small, non-cancerous cell clusters inside the colon, commonly known as polyps, are typically where colon cancer growth starts. But over time, if left untreated, these benign polyps may develop into malignant tissues and develop into colon cancer. For the diagnosis of colon cancer, with routine inspection of the colon region for polyps, several techniques, including colonoscopy and cancer scanning, are used. In the case identifying the polyps in the colon area, efforts are being taken to surgically remove the polyps as quickly as possible before they become malignant. If the polyps become malignant, then colon cancer treatment strategies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, are applied to the patients. Despite the recent improvements in diagnosis and prognosis, the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a challenging task. The objective of this review was to discuss how CRC is initiated, and its various developmental stages, pathophysiology, and risk factors, and also to explore the current state of colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment, as well as recent advancements in the field, such as new screening methods and targeted therapies. We examined the limitations of current methods and discussed the ongoing need for research and development in this area. While this topic may be serious and complex, we hope to engage and inform our audience on this important issue.

Cyclodextrins permeabilize DPPC liposome membranes: a focus on cholesterol content, cyclodextrin type, and concentration

Cyclodextrins (CDs) are known for their ability to extract lipid components from synthetic and biological membranes and therefore to induce an increase of membrane permeability. However, the effect of cholesterol (CHOL) content in the membrane on the CD permeabilizing effect was not considered yet. Given that an increase in CHOL content reduces the membrane permeability, the aim of this work was to reveal how CHOL would modulate the CDs effect on the membrane. Hence, liposomes made of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and various CHOL contents (DPPC/CHOL 100:10, 100:25, 100:50, and 100:100) encapsulating the hydrophilic fluorophore, sulforhodamine B (SRB), were prepared and exposed to the native CDs (α-CD, β-CD, γ-CD) and four β-CD derivatives: the randomly methylated-β-CD (RAMEB), the low methylated-β-CD (CRYSMEB), the hydroxypropyl-β-CD (HP-β-CD) and the sulfobutyl ether-β-CD (SBE-β-CD) at different CD/DPPC molar ratios (1:1, 10:1, and 100:1). The membrane permeability was monitored following the release of SRB with time. The results demonstrated that the CDs effect on the membrane depends on the CD type, CD concentration, and membrane CHOL content. The investigated CDs exhibited an instantaneous permeabilizing effect promoting vesicle leakage of SRB from the various membranes; this effect increased with CDs concentration. Among the studied CDs, α-CD, β-CD, and RAMEB were the most permeabilizing CDs on the different membranes. Similar modifications of SRB release from the various liposomal formulations were obtained with HP-β-CD, CRYSMEB, and SBE-β-CD. γ-CD was the less potent CD in affecting the membrane permeability. The CDs effect also depended on the CHOL content: at the CD/DPPC molar ratio (100:1), RAMEB and β-CD considerably permeabilized the membrane of high CHOL content (50%, 100%) while the remaining CDs showed a decreasing permeabilizing effect upon CHOL content membrane increase.

A Sensitive Micro Conductometric Ethanol Sensor Based on an Alcohol Dehydrogenase-Gold Nanoparticle Chitosan Composite

In this paper, a microconductometric sensor has been designed, based on a chitosan composite including alcohol dehydrogenase-and its cofactor-and gold nanoparticles, and was calibrated by differential measurements in the headspace of aqueous solutions of ethanol. The role of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) was crucial in improving the analytical performance of the ethanol sensor in terms of response time, sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility. The response time was reduced to 10 s, compared to 21 s without GNPs. The sensitivity was 416 µS/cm (v/v%)-1 which is 11.3 times higher than without GNPs. The selectivity factor versus methanol was 8.3, three times higher than without GNPs. The relative standard deviation (RSD) obtained with the same sensor was 2%, whereas it was found to be 12% without GNPs. When the air from the operator's mouth was analyzed just after rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash, the ethanol content was very high (3.5 v/v%). The background level was reached only after rinsing with water.

Exploring the Versatility of Microemulsions in Cutaneous Drug Delivery: Opportunities and Challenges

Microemulsions are novel drug delivery systems that have garnered significant attention in the pharmaceutical research field. These systems possess several desirable characteristics, such as transparency and thermodynamic stability, which make them suitable for delivering both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. In this comprehensive review, we aim to explore different aspects related to the formulation, characterization, and applications of microemulsions, with a particular emphasis on their potential for cutaneous drug delivery. Microemulsions have shown great promise in overcoming bioavailability concerns and enabling sustained drug delivery. Thus, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of their formulation and characterization in order to optimize their effectiveness and safety. This review will delve into the different types of microemulsions, their composition, and the factors that affect their stability. Furthermore, the potential of microemulsions as drug delivery systems for skin applications will be discussed. Overall, this review will provide valuable insights into the advantages of microemulsions as drug delivery systems and their potential for improving cutaneous drug delivery.

Nanotechnology in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Traditional cancer diagnosis has been aided by the application of nanoparticles (NPs), which have made the process easier and faster. NPs possess exceptional properties such as a larger surface area, higher volume proportion, and better targeting capabilities. Additionally, their low toxic effect on healthy cells enhances their bioavailability and t-half by allowing them to functionally penetrate the fenestration of epithelium and tissues. These particles have attracted attention in multidisciplinary areas, making them the most promising materials in many biomedical applications, especially in the treatment and diagnosis of various diseases. Today, many drugs are presented or coated with nanoparticles for the direct targeting of tumors or diseased organs without harming normal tissues/cells. Many types of nanoparticles, such as metallic, magnetic, polymeric, metal oxide, quantum dots, graphene, fullerene, liposomes, carbon nanotubes, and dendrimers, have potential applications in cancer treatment and diagnosis. In many studies, nanoparticles have been reported to show intrinsic anticancer activity due to their antioxidant action and cause an inhibitory effect on the growth of tumors. Moreover, nanoparticles can facilitate the controlled release of drugs and increase drug release efficiency with fewer side effects. Nanomaterials such as microbubbles are used as molecular imaging agents for ultrasound imaging. This review discusses the various types of nanoparticles that are commonly used in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Core-shell micro/nanocapsules: from encapsulation to applications

Encapsulation is the way to wrap or coat one substance as a core inside another tiny substance known as a shell at micro and nano scale for protecting the active ingredients from the exterior environment. A lot of active substances, such as flavours, enzymes, drugs, pesticides, vitamins, in addition to catalysts being effectively encapsulated within capsules consisting of different natural as well as synthetic polymers comprising poly(methacrylate), poly(ethylene glycol), cellulose, poly(lactide), poly(styrene), gelatine, poly(lactide-co-glycolide)s, and acacia. The developed capsules release the enclosed substance conveniently and in time through numerous mechanisms, reliant on the ultimate use of final products. Such technology is important for several fields counting food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, agriculture, and textile industries. The present review focuses on the most important and high-efficiency methods for manufacturing micro/nanocapsules and their several applications in our life.

Nanocarriers based novel and effective drug delivery system

Nanotechnology has ultimately come into the domain of drug delivery. Nanosystems for delivery of drugs are promptly emerging science utilizing different nanoparticles as carriers. Biocompatible and stable nanocarriers are novel diagnosis tools or therapy agents for explicitly targeting locates with controllable way. Nanocarriers propose numerous advantages to treat diseases via site-specific as well as targeted delivery of particular therapeutics. In recent times, there are number of outstanding nanocarriers use to deliver bio-, chemo-, or immuno- therapeutic agents to obtain effectual therapeutic reactions and to minimalize unwanted adverse-effects. Nanoparticles possess remarkable potential for active drug delivery. Moreover, conjugation of drugs with nanocarriers protects drugs from metabolic or chemical modifications, through their way to targeted cells and hence increased their bioavailability. In this review, various systems integrated with different types of nanocarriers (inorganic. organic, quantum dots, and carbon nanotubes) having different compositions, physical and chemical properties have been discussed for drug delivery applications.

Magnetic nanoparticles: multifunctional tool for cancer therapy

INTRODUCTION

Cancer has one of the highest mortality rates globally. The traditional therapies used to treat cancer have harmful adverse effects. Considering these facts, researchers have explored new therapeutic possibilities with enhanced benefits. Nanoparticle development for cancer detection, in addition to therapy, has shown substantial progress over the past few years.

AREA COVERED

Herein, the latest research regarding cancer treatment employing magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in chemo-, immuno-, gene-, and radiotherapy along with hyperthermia is summarized, in addition to their physio-chemical features, advantages, and limitations for clinical translation have also been discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

MNPs are being extensively investigated and developed into effective modules for cancer therapy. They are highly functional tools aimed at cancer therapy owing to their excellent superparamagnetic, chemical, biocompatible, physical, and biodegradable properties.

Exploiting recent trends for the synthesis and surface functionalization of mesoporous silica nanoparticles towards biomedical applications

Rapid progress in developing multifunctional nanocarriers for drug delivery has been observed in recent years. Inorganic mesoporous silica nanocarriers (MSNs), emerged as an ideal candidate for gene/drug delivery with distinctive morphological features. These ordered carriers of porous nature have gained unique attention due to their distinctive features. Moreover, transformation can be made to these nanocarriers in terms of pores size, pores volume, and particle size by altering specific parameters during synthesis. These ordered porous materials have earned special attention as a drug carrier for treating multiple diseases. Herein, we highlight the strategies employed in synthesizing and functionalizing these versatile nanocarriers. In addition, the various factors that influence their sizes and morphological features were also discussed. The article also summarizes the recent advancements and strategies for drug and gene delivery by rendering smarter MSNs by incorporating functional groups on their surfaces. Averting off-target effects through various capping strategies is a massive milestone for the induction of stimuli-responsive nanocarriers that brings out a great revolution in the biomedical field.

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MSNs serve as an ideal candidate for gene/drug delivery with unique and excellent attributes.

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MSNs surface can be functionalized using specific materials to impart unique structural features.

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Functionalization of MSNs with stimuli-responsive molecules can act as gatekeepers by responding to the desired stimulus after uncapping.

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These capping agents act as vital targeting agents in developing MSNs being employed in various biomedical applications.

Understanding of the key factors influencing the properties of emulsions stabilized by sodium caseinate

Emulsions can be easily destabilized under various conditions during preparation and storage. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the factors that influence the stability of emulsions, which is essential for their subsequent studies. Sodium caseinate (CAS) is a well-used nutritional and functional ingredient in emulsion preparation due to its good solubility and emulsifying properties. CAS-stabilized emulsions can be considered good food emulsion delivery systems, but their applications are still limited under certain conditions due to their instability to creaming and aggregation. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide a complete overview of how different environmental stresses and processing conditions affect the stability of CAS-stabilized emulsions and how to improve their stability. Initially, the general properties of CAS as emulsifiers and the characterization of CAS-stabilized oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions were summarized. Second, the major instability mechanisms that operate in CAS-stabilized emulsions were presented. Furthermore, the general factors such as pH, emulsifier concentration, ionic strength, oxidation, and processing conditions, affecting the stability of CAS-stabilized O/W emulsion, were discussed. On this basis, the commonly used methods for evaluating emulsion stability are introduced. Finally, state-of-the-art strategies to improve CAS-based emulsion stability are also described and summarized. This review is expected to provide a theoretical basis for the future applications of CAS in food emulsions.

Biodegradable porous micro/nanoparticles with thermoresponsive gatekeepers for effective loading and precise delivery of active compounds at the body temperature

Stimuli-responsive controlled delivery systems are of interest for preventing premature leakages and ensuring precise releases of active compounds at target sites. In this study, porous biodegradable micro/nanoparticles embedded with thermoresponsive gatekeepers are designed and developed based on Eudragit RS100 (PNIPAM@RS100) and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) via a double emulsion solvent evaporation technique. The effect of initiator types on the polymerization of NIPAM monomer/methylene-bis-acrylamide (MBA) crosslinker was investigated at 60 °C for thermal initiators and ambient temperature for redox initiators. The crosslinked PNIPAM plays a key role as thermal-triggered gatekeepers with high loading efficiency and precise release of a model active compound, Nile Blue A (NB). Below the volume phase transition temperature (T_VPT), the gatekeepers possess a swollen conformation to block the pores and store NB within the cavities. Above its T_VPT, the chains rearrange, allowing gate opening and a rapid and constant release rate of the compound until completion. A precise “on–off” switchable release efficiency of PNIPAM@RS100 was demonstrated by changing the temperatures to 4 and 40 °C. The materials are a promising candidate for controlled drug delivery systems with a precise and easy triggering mechanism at the body temperature for effective treatments.

Contribution of magnetic particles in molecular diagnosis of human viruses

Viral diseases are the primary source of death, making a worldwide influence on healthcare, social, and economic development. Thus, diagnosis is the vital approach to the main aim of virus control and elimination. On the other hand, the prompt advancement of nanotechnology in the field of medicine possesses the probability of being beneficial to diagnose infections normally in labs as well as specifically. Nanoparticles are efficiently in use to make novel strategies because of permitting analysis at cellular in addition to the molecular scale. Henceforth, they assist towards pronounced progress concerning molecular analysis at the nanoscale. In recent times, magnetic nanoparticles conjugated through covalent bonds to bioanalytes for instance peptides, antibodies, nucleic acids, plus proteins are established like nanoprobes aimed at molecular recognition. These modified magnetic nanoparticles could offer a simple fast approach for extraction, purification, enrichment/concentration, besides viruses' recognition precisely also specifically. In consideration of the above, herein insight and outlook into the limitations of conventional methods and numerous roles played by magnetic nanoparticles to extract, purify, concentrate, and additionally in developing a diagnostic regime for viral outbreaks to combat viruses especially the ongoing novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Advancement in Nanoparticle-Based Biosensors for Point-of-Care In Vitro Diagnostics

Abstract:

Recently, there has been great progress in the field of extremely sensitive and precise detection of bioanalytes. The importance of the utilization of nanoparticles in biosensors has been recognized due to their unique properties. Specifically, nanoparticles of gold, silver, and magnetic plus graphene, quantum dots, and nanotubes of carbon are being keenly considered for utilizations within biosensors to detect nucleic acids, glucose, or pathogens (bacteria as well as a virus). Taking advantage of nanoparticles, faster and sensitive biosensors can be developed. Here we review the nanoparticles' contribution to the biosensors field and their potential applications.

Development and In Vitro/In Vivo Evaluation of pH-Sensitive Polymeric Nanoparticles Loaded Hydrogel for the Management of Psoriasis

Methotrexate (MTX), the gold standard against psoriasis, poses severe problems when administered systemically viz increased toxicity, poor solubility and adverse reactions. Hence, a topical formulation of MTX for the management of psoriasis can be an effective approach. The present study aimed to develop an MTX based nanoparticle-loaded chitosan hydrogel for evaluating its potential efficacy in an imiquimod-induced psoriatic mice model. MTX-NPs loaded hydrogel was prepared and optimized using the o/w emulsion solvent evaporation method. Particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release, ex vivo permeation, skin irritation and deposition studies were performed. Psoriatic Area and Severity Index (PASI) score/histopathological examinations were conducted to check the antipsoriatic potential of MTX-NPs loaded hydrogel using an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriatic model. Optimized MTX-NPs showed a particle size of 256.4 ± 2.17 nm and encapsulation efficiency of 86 ± 0.03%. MTX-NPs loaded hydrogel displayed a 73 ± 1.21% sustained drug release in 48 h. Ex vivo permeation study showed only 19.95 ± 1.04 µg/cm2 of drug permeated though skin in 24 h, while epidermis retained 81.33% of the drug. A significant decrease in PASI score with improvement to normalcy of mice skin was observed. The developed MTX-NPs hydrogel displayed negligible signs of mild hyperkeratosis and parakeratosis, while histopathological studies showed healing signs of mice skin. So, the MTX-NPs loaded hydrogel can be a promising delivery system against psoriasis.

Encapsulation of α-Pinene in Delivery Systems Based on Liposomes and Cyclodextrins

The essential oil component α-pinene has multiple biological activities. However, its application is limited owing to its volatility, low aqueous solubility, and chemical instability. For the aim of improving its physicochemical properties, α-pinene was encapsulated in conventional liposomes (CLs) and drug-in-cyclodextrin-in-liposomes (DCLs). Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin/α-pinene (HP-β-CD/α-pinene) inclusion complexes were prepared in aqueous solution, and the optimal solubilization of α-pinene occurred at HP-β-CD:α-pinene molar ratio of 7.5:1. The ethanol-injection method was applied to produce different formulations using saturated (Phospholipon 90H) or unsaturated (Lipoid S100) phospholipids in combination with cholesterol. The size, the phospholipid and cholesterol incorporation rates, the encapsulation efficiency (EE), and the loading rate (LR) of α-pinene were determined, and the storage stability of liposomes was assessed. The results showed that α-pinene was efficiently entrapped in CLs and DCLs with high EE values. Moreover, Lipoid S100 CLs displayed the highest LR (22.9 ± 2.2%) of α-pinene compared to the other formulations. Both carrier systems HP-β-CD/α-pinene inclusion complex and Lipoid S100 CLs presented a gradual release of α-pinene. Furthermore, the DPPH radical scavenging activity of α-pinene was maintained upon encapsulation in Lipoid S100 CLs. Finally, it was found that all formulations were stable after three months of storage at 4 °C.

Microfluidic based nanoparticle synthesis and their potential applications

A lot of substantial innovation in advancement of microfluidic field in recent years to produce nanoparticle reveals a number of distinctive characteristics for instance compactness, controllability, fineness in process, and stability along with minimal reaction amount. Recently, a prompt development, as well as realization in production of nanoparticles in microfluidic environs having dimension of micro to nanometers and constituents extending from metals, semiconductors to polymers, has been made. Microfluidics technology integrates fluid mechanics for production of nanoparticles having exclusive with homogenous sizes, shapes, and morphology, which are utilized in several bioapplications such as biosciences, drug delivery, healthcare, including food engineering. Nanoparticles are usually well-known for having fine and rough morphology because of their small dimensions including exceptional physical, biological, chemical, and optical properties. Though the orthodox procedures need huge instruments, costly autoclaves, use extra power, extraordinary heat loss, as well as take surplus time for synthesis. Additionally, this is fascinating in order to systematize, assimilate, in addition, to reduce traditional tools onto one platform to produce micro and nanoparticles. The synthesis of nanoparticles by microfluidics permits fast handling besides better efficacy of method utilizing the smallest components for process. Herein, we will focus on synthesis of nanoparticles by means of microfluidic devices intended for different bioapplications. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Vancomycin conjugated iron oxide nanoparticles for magnetic targeting and efficient capture of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria

Drug conjugated iron oxide magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles are of great interest in the field of biomedicine. In this study, vancomycin (Van) conjugated magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles were envisioned to capture and inhibit the growth of bacteria. Hydrophobic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were synthesized by using co-precipitation of ferrous (Fe²⁺) and ferric (Fe³⁺) ions following a surface modification step with oleic acid as stabilizers. Thereafter, a ligand exchange technique was employed to displace oleic acid with hydrophilic dopamine (DOPA) molecules which have a catechol group for anchoring to the iron oxide surface to prepare water dispersible nanoparticles. The surface of the resulting Fe₃O₄/DOPA nanoparticles contains amino (–NH₂) groups that are conjugated with vancomycin via a coupling reaction between the –NH₂ group of dopamine and the –COOH group of vancomycin. The prepared vancomycin conjugated Fe₃O₄/DOPA nanoparticles were named Fe₃O₄/DOPA/Van and exhibited a magnetic response to an external magnetic field due to the presence of magnetite Fe₃O₄ in the core. The Fe₃O₄/DOPA/Van nanoparticles showed bactericidal activity against both Gram positive Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) and Streptococcus and Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli). Maximum inhibition zones of 22 mm, 19 mm and 18 mm were found against B. subtilis, Streptococcus and E. coli respectively. Most importantly, the vancomycin conjugated nanoparticles were effectively bound to the cell wall of the bacteria, promoting bacterial separation and growth inhibition. Therefore, the prepared Fe₃O₄/DOPA/Van nanoparticles can be promising for effective bacterial separation and killing in the dispersion media.

(a) The separation of bacteria by vancomycin conjugated Fe₃O₄/DOPA/Van nanoparticles and (b) H-bonding interactions between the vancomycin molecule and the d-alanyl-d-alanine dipeptide of the bacterial surface.

A model of modified meta-iodobenzylguanidine conjugated gold nanoparticles for neuroblastoma treatment

Iodine-131 meta-iodobenzylguanidine (131I-mIBG) has been utilized as a standard treatment to minimize adverse side effects by targeting therapies to bind to the norepinephrine transporter (NET) expressed on 90% of neuroblastoma cells. However, only a minority of patients who receive 131I-mIBG radiotherapy have clinical responses, and these are usually not curative. In this study, novel ligand-conjugated gold nanoparticles (GNPs) based on mIBG were synthesized and evaluated biologically with neuroblastoma cells in vitro. To induce specific internalization to the tumor cells and utilize it as a model for radioenhancement, 127I-modified mIBG was successfully synthesized and grafted covalently to the surface of carboxylated PEG-GNPs. 49.28% of the novel mIBG derivative was grafted on carboxylated PEG-GNPs. The particles were stable and not toxic to the normal fibroblast cell line, L929, even at the highest concentration tested (1013 NPs per mL) at 24, 48, and 72 h. Moreover, the cellular uptake of the model was decreased significantly in the presence of a NET inhibitor, suggesting that there was specific internalization into neuroblastoma cells line (SH-SY5Y) via the NET. Therefore, this model provides useful guidance toward the design of gold nanomaterials to enhance the efficiency of 131I-mIBG treatment in neuroblastoma patients. However, the investigation of radio-therapeutic efficiency after radioisotope 131I substitution will be further conducted in a radiation safety laboratory using an animal model.

Polysaccharide Chemistry in Drug Delivery, Endocrinology, and Vaccines

Polysaccharides, due to their outstanding properties, have attracted the attention of researchers, working in the biomedical field and especially of those working in drug delivery. Modified/functionalized polysaccharides further increase the importance for various applications. Delivery of therapeutics for diverse ailments in different endocrine glands and hormones safely, is a focal point of researchers working in the field. Among the routes followed, the transdermal route is preferred due to non-exposure of active moieties to the harsh gastric environment and first-pass metabolism. This review starts with the overview of polysaccharides used for the delivery of various therapeutic agents. Advantages of polysaccharides used in the transdermal route are addressed in detail. Types of polysaccharides will be elaborated through examples, and in this context, special emphasis will be on the polysaccharides being used for synthesis of the membranes/films. Techniques employed for their modification to design novel carriers for therapeutics delivery will also be discussed. The review will end with a brief discussion on recent developments and future perspectives for delivery of therapeutic agents, and vaccine development.

A silicon nitride ISFET based immunosensor for tumor necrosis factor-alpha detection in saliva. A promising tool for heart failure monitoring

According to the European statistics, approximately 26 million patients worldwide suffer from heart failure (HF), and this number seems to be steadily increasing. Inflammation plays a central role in the development of HF, and the pro-inflammatory cytokine Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) represents inflammation gold-standard biomarker. Early detection plays a crucial role for the prognosis and treatment of HF. An Ion Sensitive Field Effect Transistor (ISFET) based on silicon nitride transducer and biofunctionalized with anti-TNF-α antibody for label-free detection of salivary TNF-α is proposed. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used for TNF-α detection. Our ImmunoFET offered a detection limit of 1 pg mL^-1, with an analytical reproducibility expressed by a coefficient of variance (CV) resulted < 10% for the analysis of saliva samples, and an analyte recovery of 94 ± 6%. In addition, it demonstrated high selectivity when compared to other HF biomarkers such as Inteleukin-10, N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide, and Cortisol. Finally, ImmunoFET accuracy in determining the unknown concentration of TNF-α was successfully tested in saliva samples by performing standard addition method. The proposed ImmunoFET showed great promise as a complementary tool for biomedical application for HF monitoring by a non-invasive, rapid and accurate assessment of TNF-α.

Innovative electrochemical sensor for the precise determination of the new antiviral COVID-19 treatment Favipiravir in the presence of coadministered drugs

Due the current pandemic of COVID-19, an urgent need is required for serious medical treatments of a huge number of patients. The world health organization (WHO) approved Favipiravir (FAV) as a medication for patients infected with corona virus. In the current study, we report the first simple electrochemical, greatly sensitive sensor using MnO₂-rGO nanocomposite for the accurate determination of Favipiravir (FAV). The developed sensor showed a high improvement in the electrochemical oxidation of FAV comparing to the unmodified screen-printed electrode (SPE). The suggested platform constituents and the electrochemical measurements parameters were studied. Under optimal experimental parameters, a current response to the concentration change of FAV was found to be in the linear range of 1.0 × 10^-8-5.5 × 10^-5 M at pH 7.0 with a limit of detection 0.11 µM and a quantification limit of 0.33 µM. The developed platform was confirmed by the precise analysis of FAV in real samples including dosage form and plasma. The developed platform can be applied in different fields of industry quality control and clinical analysis laboratories for the FAV determination.

Liposome Permeability to Essential Oil Components: A Focus on Cholesterol Content

Encapsulation in liposomes has been an efficient strategy to improve the stability of sensitive bioactive compounds such as essential oils (EOs). However, the stability of liposomal formulations remains a key parameter controlling the delivery of encapsulated ingredients. Cholesterol (Chol) modulates the membrane properties conferring stability to the lipid bilayer. Thus, the Chol content in the liposome formulations encapsulating EO components should be carefully chosen. In this work, various liposome formulations differing by Chol content (DPPC:Chol 100:10; 100:25; 100:50; 100:75; 100:100) were exposed to a series of 22 EO components at DPPC/EO 100/25. The formulations were characterized for their final composition and their permeability to the hydrophilic fluorophore, sulforhodamine B (SRB), was monitored. Results showed that the Chol content experimentally determined for the various formulations (above 10% Chol) was below the theoretical weighed Chol. Among the tested components, 13 molecules displayed a significant permeabilizing effect on 10% Chol membranes. Most of these possess a hydroxyl group. The EO induced permeability was dependent on the Chol content which affects the membrane phase: their effect was reduced upon increasing Chol content keeping five EOs components effective at 40% Chol. The EO's effect was also linked to the hydrophobicity of the molecule. Hence, the DPPC:Chol ratio of the formulation is chosen considering the structure of the compound, its hydrophobicity and its effect on the permeability at different Chol content: a formulation comprising 40% Chol is suggested for highly hydrophobic molecules whereas a formulation with higher Chol content could be selected for less hydrophobic compounds.

Sensor Based on a Poly[2-(Dimethylamino)ethyl Methacrylate-Co-Styrene], Gold Nanoparticles, and Methylene Blue-Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode for Melamine Detection

Melamine has been used as a non-protein nitrogenous additive in food products to artificially increase the apparent “false” protein content. Melamine is known as a dangerous and poisonous substance for human health and it causes diverse diseases. An electrochemical sensor for melamine detection has been developed by modification of a glassy carbon electrode using copolymer poly[DMAEMA-co-styrene], gold nanoparticles, and methylene blue. The characterization of the modified electrode was conducted using several analysis techniques including cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), chronoamperometry (CA), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The electrochemical detection of melamine was performed by impedance spectroscopy. Obtained results revealed that the developed sensor has a large detection range from 5.0 × 10⁻¹³ to 3.8 × 10⁻⁸ M with a low detection limit of 1.8 × 10⁻¹² M (at S/N = 3). Various interfering species such as phenol, hydroquinone, and bisphenol A have been used and their behavior on modified electrode has been studied.

Plant oils: From chemical composition to encapsulated form use

The last decade has witnessed a burgeoning global movement towards essential and vegetable oils in the food, agriculture, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and textile industries thanks to their natural and safe status, broad acceptance by consumers, and versatile functional properties. However, efforts to develop new therapy or functional agents based on plant oils have met with challenges of limited stability and/or reduced efficacy. As a result, there has been increased research interest in the encapsulation of plant oils, whereby the nanocarriers serve as barrier between plant oils and the environment and control oil release leading to improved efficacy, reduced toxicity and enhanced patient compliance and convenience. In this review, special concern has been addressed to the encapsulation of essential and vegetable oils in three types of nanocarriers: polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes and solid lipid nanoparticles. First, the chemical composition of essential and vegetable oils was handled. Moreover, we gather together the research findings reported by the literature regarding the different techniques used to generate these nanocarriers with their significant findings. Finally, differences and similarities between these nanocarriers are discussed, along with current and future applications that are warranted by their structures and properties.

Self-assembly of amphiphilic poly(styrene-b-acrylic acid) on magnetic latex particles and their application as a reusable scale inhibitor

The deposition of scale on membranes or container and pipe surfaces (clogging the system) is a costly issue in water treatment processes or water-cooling systems. To effectively cope with this issue, magnetic polymeric nanoparticles (MPNPs) have been developed and applied as promising scale inhibitors, due to their high surface-area-to-volume ratio, surface modifiability, and magnetic separation ability. Carboxylated MPNPs, having a monodisperse size distribution (236 ± 26 nm) with a high magnetic content of 70 wt% and superparamagnetic properties, were fabricated by using a 2-step process: (i) formation of clusters of hydrophobic magnetic nanoparticles stabilized by oleic acid (OA-MNPs), and (ii) self-assembly of the amphiphilic block copolymer of poly(styrene₂₇-b-acrylic acid₁₂₀) (PS₂₇-b-PAA₁₂₀) onto the cluster surfaces. With application of ultrasonication to 12.0 wt% OA-MNPs, a three-dimensional network was formed by particle–particle interactions, suppressing coalescence, and then creating stable magnetic clusters. The cluster surfaces were then adsorbed by amphiphilic PS₂₇-b-PAA₁₂₀via the attractive force between hydrophobic PS blocks. This moves longer hydrophilic PAA blocks containing carboxylic acid groups into the water phase. The formulated MPNPs acted as a nanosorbent for calcium ion (Ca²⁺) removal with a removal efficiency of 92%. The MPNPs can be effectively reused for up to 4 cycles. Based on the electrostatic interactions between the negatively-charged polymer and the hydrated Ca²⁺, the resulting precipitation leads to the prevention of calcium carbonate scale formation. Insights into this mechanism open up a new perspective for magnetic-material applications as effective antiscalants.

Carboxylated magnetic polymeric nanoparticles, having a high magnetic content, and superparamagnetic properties were prepared and applied as effective antiscalants.

Magnetic Nanoparticles Fishing for Biomarkers in Artificial Saliva

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized using the colloidal co-precipitation method and further coated with silica using the Stöber process. These were functionalized with carboxylic and amine functionalities for further covalent immobilization of antibodies on these MNPs. The procedure for covalent immobilization of antibodies on MNPs was developed using 1-ethyl-3-(dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide (EDC) and N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS). The evaluation of the efficiency of the coupling reaction was carried out by UV-vis spectrophotometry. The developed antibodies coupled to MNPs were tested for the pre-concentration of two biomarkers tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin-10 (IL-10). Both biomarkers were assessed in the matrix based on phosphate-buffered saline solution (PBS) and artificial saliva (AS) to carry out the demonstration of the format assay. Supernatants were used to determine the number of free biomarkers for both studies. Reduction of the nonspecific saliva protein adsorption on the surface of the complex antibodies-MNPs to levels low enough to allow the detection of biomarkers in complex media has been achieved.

Exploiting proteases for cancer theranostic through molecular imaging and drug delivery

The measurement of biological processes at a molecular and cellular level serves as a basis for molecular imaging. As compared with traditional imaging approaches, molecular imaging functions to probe molecular anomalies that are the basis of a disease rather than the evaluation of end results of these molecular changes. Proteases play central role in tumor invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis thus can be exploited as a target for imaging probes in early diagnosis and treatment of tumors. Molecular imaging of protease has undergone tremendous breakthroughs in the field of diagnosis. It allows the clinicians not only to see the tumor location but also provides an insight into the expression and activity of different types of markers associated with the tumor microenvironment. These imaging techniques are expected to have a huge impact on early cancer detection and personalized cancer treatment. Effective development of protease imaging probes with the highest in vivo biocompatibility, stability and most appropriate pharmacokinetics for clinical translation will upsurge the success level of early cancer detection and treatment.

Hydrophilic Submicron Nanogel Particles for Specific Recombinant Proteins Extraction and Purification

In biomedical diagnosis and bionanotechnologies, the extraction and purification of proteins and protein derivatives are of great interest. In fact, to purify recombinant proteins for instance, new methodologies and well appropriate material supports need to be established and also to be evaluated. In this work, hydrophilic nanohydrogel particles were prepared for recombinant proteins extraction for purification purpose. The prepared nanohydrogel polymer-based particles are hydrophilic below the volume phase transition temperature (TVPT) and dehydrated above the TVPT, due to the thermally sensitive poly(N-alkyl acrylamide) and poly(N-alkyl methacrylamide) derivatives. Then, the use of heavy metal ions in the presence of such functional particles should specifically capture recombinant proteins (i.e., proteins bearing a poly(histidine) part). In order to understand and to optimize the specific capture and the purification of recombinant proteins, various parameters have been investigated as a systematic study. Firstly, the adsorption was investigated as a function of pH and protein concentration. According to high hydration of the prepared nanohydrogel, no marked adsorption was observed. Secondly, the effect of pH was investigated and found to be the driven parameter affecting the metal ions immobilization and the recombinant proteins complexation. As a result, high protein complexation was observed at basic pH compared to non-complexation at acidic pH medium. The immobilized proteins via complexation were released by changing the pH. This decomplexation seems to be effective but depends on fixation conditions and particle surface structure.

Amphotericin B Loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles for Treatment of Leishmania Infections

Fungal infections in immune-compromised patients are an important cause of mortality and morbidity. Amphotericin B (Amp B) is considered a powerful fungicidal drug but its clinical usage has certain limitations when administered intravenously due to its toxicity and poor solubility. In consideration of such challenges, in cutaneous leishmaniasis, the topical application of Amp B can be a safer option in many aspects. Thus, herein, biopolymer of polycaprolactone (PCL) nanoparticles (NPs) were developed with the loading of Amp B by nanoprecipitation for the treatment of topical leishmanial infections. Various parameters, such as concentration of PCL and surfactant Poloxamer 407, were varied in order to optimize the formation of nanoparticles for the loading of Amp B. The optimized formulation exhibited a mean hydrodynamic particle size of 183 nm with a spherical morphology and an encapsulation efficiency of 85%. The applications of various kinetic models reveal that drug release from nanoformulation follows Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetics and has a high diffusion exponent at a physiological pH of 7.4 as well a skin relevant pH = 5.5. The activity of the prepared nanoparticles was also demonstrated in Leishmania infected macrophages. The measured IC₅₀ of the prepared nanoparticle formulation was observed to be significantly lower when compared to control free Amp B and AmBisome^® for both L. tropica KWH23 and L. donovani amastigotes in order to demonstrate maximum parasite inhibition. The prepared topical nanoformulations are capable of providing novel options for the treatment of leishmaniasis, which can be possible after in vivo assays as well as the establishment of safety profiles.