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Dicarboxylate metallosurfactants (AASM), synthesized by mixing N‐dodecyl aminomalonate, ‐aspartate and ‐glutamate with CaCl2, MnCl2 and CdCl2, were characterized by XRD, FTIR, and NMR spectroscopy. Layered structures, formed by metallosurfactants, were evidenced from differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analyses. Solvent‐spread monolayer of AASM in combination with soyphosphatidylcholine (SPC) and cholesterol (CHOL) were studied using Langmuir surface balance. With increasing mole fraction of AASM mean molecular area increased and passed through maxima at ~60 mol% of AASMs, indicating molecular packing reorganization. Systems with 20 and 60 mol% AASM exhibited positive deviations from ideal behavior signifying repulsive interaction between the AASM and SPC, while synergistic interactions were established from the negative deviation at other combinations. Dynamic surface elasticity increased with increasing surface pressure signifying formation of rigid monolayer. Transition of monolayer from gaseous to liquid expanded to liquid condensed state was established by Brewster angle microscopic studies. Stability of the hybrid vesicles, formed by AASM+SPC+CHOL, were established by monitoring their size, zeta potential and polydispersity index values over 100 days. Size and spherical morphology of hybrid vesicles were confirmed by transmission electron microscopic studies. Biocompatibility of the hybrid vesicles were established by cytotoxicity studies revealing their possible applications in drug delivery and imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractCarnosine is an endogenous dipeptide characterized by a multimodal mechanism of action. However, its clinical potential is limited by serum and cytosolic carnosinases, which significantly reduce its bioavailability. Based on that, different research groups have worked on the development of new strategies able not only to prevent its rapid metabolization but also to improve its distribution and specific targeting. In the present study, the development and in vitro characterization of new liposomal formulations loaded with carnosine are described. Nanoliposomes, produced through Thin-Layer Hydration followed by Extrusion method, were first investigated for their physicochemical stability. Photon correlation spectroscopy and electrophoretic light scattering, assessing the stability of the formulations, showed a strong homogeneity-oriented tendency for up to two months. Particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential were determined through dynamic light scattering and electrophoretic light scattering, demonstrating an almost neutral charge of the formulation and an effective encapsulation of carnosine. The morphology assessment performed via scanning electron microscopy showed good conformity and polydispersity. Differential scanning calorimetry measurements suggest the ability of carnosine to stabilize the large unilamellar vesicles. Lastly, the newly developed carnosine-loaded liposomal formulations also showed a good safety profile in human microglia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new concept of biomimetic lubricating nanosystem that realizes long-time lubrication, photothermal responsiveness and anti-inflammation property is developed. High drug loading ratio of 99%, great friction reduction by 75% for more than 7200 times without failure, and effective up-regulation of cartilage anabolic genes and down-regulation of catabolic proteases and pain-related genes are achieved. Our work provides a bioinspired strategy to employ metal organic framework with controlled surface and structure for synergistic therapy of osteoarthritis. [Display omitted] Failure of articular cartilage lubrication and inflammation are the main causes of osteoarthritis (OA), and integrated treatment realizing joint lubrication and anti-inflammation is becoming the most effective treat model. Inspired by low friction of human synovial fluid and adhesive chemical effect of mussels, our work reports a biomimetic lubricating system that realizes long-time lubrication, photothermal responsiveness and anti-inflammation property. To build the system, a dopamine-mediated strategy is developed to controllably graft hyaluronic acid on the surface of metal organic framework. The design constructs a biomimetic core–shell structure that has good dispersity and stability in water with a high drug loading ratio of 99%. Temperature of the solution rapidly increases to 55 °C under near-infrared light, and the hard-soft lubricating system well adheres to wear surfaces, and greatly reduces frictional coefficient by 75% for more than 7200 times without failure. Cell experiments show that the nanosystem enters cells by endocytosis, and releases medication in a sustained manner. The anti-inflammatory outcomes validate that the nanosystem prevents the progression of OA by down-regulating catabolic proteases and pain-related genes and up-regulating genes that are anabolic in cartilage. The study provides a bioinspired strategy to employ metal organic framework with controlled surface and structure for friction reduction and anti-inflammation, and develops a new concept of OA synergistic therapy model for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the current work was to develop and characterize ethosomes of vitamin D3 gel that could more effectively work against psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease. Due to vitamin D3 role in proliferation and maturation of keratinocytes, it has become an important local therapeutic option in the treatment of psoriasis. In this research we have initiated worked on ethosomes gels containing vitamin D3 to treat psoriasis. Soya lecithin 1–8% (w/v), propylene glycol and ethanol were used to create the formulations, which were then tested for vesicle size, shape, surface morphology, entrapment effectiveness, and in vitro drug permeation. The drug encapsulation efficiency of ethosomes was 96.25% ± 0.3. The particle sizes of the optimized ethosomes was 148 and 657 nm, and the PDI value was 0.770 ± 0.12 along with negative charge − 14 ± 3. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) along with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) studies confirmed the absence of interactions between vitamin D3 and other ingredients. It was determined that the total amount of medication that penetrated the membrane was 95.34% ± 3. Percentage lysis was very negligible for all strengths which were found less than 15%. Based on our research, ethosomes appear to be safe for use. The vitamin D3 ethosomal gel order, description, pH, and viscosity were all within the specified ranges, according to the findings of a 6-month investigation into the stability profile of the completed system. In this research, we successfully prepared ethosomes loaded with vitamin D3 and then converted it into gel for patients' easy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endothelial cells (ECs) are pivotal in maintaining vascular health, regulating hemodynamics, and modulating inflammatory responses. Nanocarriers hold transformative potential for precise drug delivery within the vascular system, particularly targeting ECs for therapeutic purposes. However, the complex interactions between vascular ECs and nanocarriers present significant challenges for the development and clinical translation of nanotherapeutics. This review assesses recent advancements and key strategies in employing nanocarriers for drug delivery to vascular ECs. It suggested that through precise physicochemical design and surface modifications, nanocarriers can enhance targeting specificity and improve drug internalization efficiency in ECs. Additionally, we elaborated on the applications of nanocarriers specifically designed for targeting ECs in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, cancer metastasis, and inflammatory disorders. Despite these advancements, safety concerns, the complexity of in vivo processes, and the challenge of achieving subcellular drug delivery remain significant obstacles to the effective targeting of ECs with nanocarriers. A comprehensive understanding of endothelial cell biology and its interaction with nanocarriers is crucial for realizing the full potential of targeted drug delivery systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Degradable polar hydrophobic ionic polyurethanes (D-PHI) are an emerging class of biomaterials with particular significance for blood-contacting applications due to their immunomodulatory effects and highly customizable block chemistry. In this manuscript, D-PHI polymer was formulated as a nanoparticle excipient for the first time by inverse emulsion polymerization. The nanoparticles were optimized with consideration of diameter, surface charge, size variability, and yield as a delivery vehicle for a custom vascular therapeutic peptide. A layer-by-layer (LBL) surface modification technique using poly-L-lysine was integrated within the nanoparticle design to optimize therapeutic loading efficiency. Solvent pH played a pivotal role in emulsion micelle formation, LBL polymer secondary structure, and the polymer functional group interactions critical for high therapeutic loading. The resulting nanoparticle platform met target size (200 ± 20 nm), polydispersity (<0.07), and storage stability standards, was nontoxic, and did not affect therapeutic peptide bioactivity in vitro. Surface-modified D-PHI nanoparticles can be reproducibly manufactured at low cost, generating a highly customizable excipient platform suitable for delivery of biomolecular therapeutics. These nanoparticles have potential applications in vascular drug delivery via localized infusion, drug eluting stents, and drug-coated angioplasty balloons. Nanoscale excipients have become critical in the delivery of many therapeutics to enhance drug stability and targeted biodistribution through careful design of nanoparticle composition, surface chemistry, and size. This manuscript describes the development of a nanoparticle excipient derived from an immunomodulatory degradable polar hydrophobic ionic polyurethane, in combination with a layer-by-layer surface modification approach utilizing poly-L-lysine, to transport a mimetic peptide targeting smooth muscle cell migration in vascular disease. The nanoparticle platform draws on the effect of pH to maximize drug loading and tailor particle properties. The low cost and easily reproducible system presents a highly customizable platform that can be adapted for therapeutic delivery across a wide range of clinical indications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, cancer ranks among the foremost contributors to mortality despite recent medical progress. Alternative approaches in controlling various forms of cancer are being highly explored by researchers. This study provides the global research trends in the utilization of medicinal plant-synthesized nanoparticles for cancer treatment over the span of 18 years using scientometric analysis. Recent research advances on medicinal plant-derived nanoparticles for cancer treatment and their possible mechanisms of action were described. Relevant articles published between 2005 and 2023 were retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science and analyzed using RStudio and VOSViewer. Scientometric indicators were employed to analyze the results. The initial search returned 5695 articles, with a publication growth rate of 3.71% annually. Countries from Asia contributed the most (61.37%) to the total number of publications. The therapeutic effects of nanoparticles derived from medicinal plants can be attributed to various mechanistic pathways, including induced apoptosis from reactive oxygen species generation, as well as mitochondrial and cell membrane disruption, amongst others. Although some reported studies demonstrated promising safety and efficacy against certain cancer cells in vivo and in vitro, the little to no clinical data on medicinal plant-synthesized nanoparticles hinder the ability to make informed decisions about their clinical potential in cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteosarcoma is a highly aggressive bone cancer primarily affecting children, adolescents, and young adults. The current gold standard for treatment of osteosarcoma patients consists of two to three rounds of chemotherapy, followed by extensive surgical intervention from total limb reconstruction to amputation, followed by additional rounds of chemotherapy. Although chemotherapy has advanced the treatment of osteosarcoma significantly, the overall 5-year survival rate in resistant forms of osteosarcoma is still below 20%. The interaction between cancer and the immune system has long been recognized as a critical aspect of tumour growth. Tumour cells within the tumour microenvironment (TME) suppress antitumour immunity, and immunosuppressive cells and cytokines provide the extrinsic factors of tumour drug resistance. Emerging research demonstrates an immunostimulatory role for the cGAS/STING pathway in osteosarcoma, typically considered an immunecold or immunosuppressed cancer type. cGAS/STING signalling appears to drive an innate immune response against tumours and potentiates the efficacy of other common therapies including chemo and radiotherapy. Nanotechnological delivery systems for improved therapy delivery for osteosarcoma have also been under investigation in recent years. This review provides an overview of cGAS/STING signalling, its divergent roles in the context of cancer, and collates current research which activates cGAS/STING as an adjuvant immunomodulatory target for the treatment of osteosarcoma. It will also discuss current nanotechnological delivery approaches that have been developed to stimulate cGAS/STING. Finally, it will highlight the future directions that we believe will be central to the development of this transformative field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sinapine is a natural polyphenol from the cruciferous plant family that has anti-aging effects but is low in bioavailability. To improve the bioavailability and therapeutic effect of sinapine, sinapine-crosslinked dual-protein-based hydrogels were prepared using soy protein isolate as a cross-linking agent. The preparation conditions were optimized by single-factor experiments, and the optimal ratios were obtained as follows: the concentration of sinapine was 300 μg/mL; the water–oil ratio was 1:3. The encapsulation rate was greater than 95%, and the drug loading capacity was 3.5 mg/g. In vitro, digestion experiments showed that the dual-protein-based hydrogels as a drug carrier stabilized the release of sinapine and improved the bioavailability of sinapine by 19.3%. The IC50 of DPPH antioxidants was 25 μg/mL as determined by in vitro digestion, and the antioxidant capacity of ABTS was about 20% higher than that of glutaraldehyde control. This is due to the addition of sinapine to enhance the antioxidant properties of the system. It can be seen that the developed hydrogels have potential applications in related fields, such as food nutrition fortification and drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hippocampal neurons can be the first to be impaired with neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Most drug candidates for causal therapy of AD cannot either enter the brain or accumulate around hippocampal neurons. Here, we genetically engineered insulin-fusion proteins, called hippocampal neuron-targeting (Ht) proteins, for targeting protein drugs to hippocampal neurons because insulin tends to accumulate in the neuronal cell layers of the hippocampus. In vitro examinations clarified that insulin and Ht proteins were internalized into the cultured hippocampal neurons through insulin receptor-mediated macropinocytosis. Cysteines were key determinants of the delivery of Ht proteins to hippocampal neurons, and insulin B chain mutant was most potent in delivering cargo proteins. In vivo accumulation of Ht proteins to hippocampal neuronal layers occurred after intracerebroventricular administration. Thus, hippocampal neuron-targeting technology can provide great help for developing protein drugs against neurodegenerative disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitiligo is a common skin disorder where melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment, are destroyed by the immune system, leading to white patches on the skin and mucous membranes. This condition affects 0.4% to 2.0% of the global population, with a higher prevalence in females and often beginning in childhood. In India, about 1% of the population is affected, particularly in northern regions, with a higher incidence in females and links to other autoimmune diseases. This review examines recent progress in understanding vitiligo and its treatment. It focuses on the genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors involved in the disease and highlights new therapies, such as targeted molecular treatments and advanced repigmentation methods. Current research shows that oxidative stress and genetic predispositions contribute to the autoimmune destruction of melanocytes. Novel drug delivery systems, including liposomes, nanoemulsions, and nanostructured lipid carriers, have improved treatment effectiveness. Clinical trials are exploring new treatments like Ruxolitinib cream and melanocyte transplantation, while teledermatology is becoming useful for managing patients. Vitiligo also poses a significant economic burden due to its impact on patients’ quality of life. Continued research is essential to develop better, more accessible treatments and reduce the economic impact of vitiligo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferroptosis, distinct from apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy, is a unique type of cell death driven by iron-dependent phospholipid peroxidation. Since ferroptosis was defined in 2012, it has received widespread attention from researchers worldwide. From a biochemical perspective, the regulation of ferroptosis is strongly associated with cellular metabolism, primarily including iron metabolism, lipid metabolism, and redox metabolism. The distinctive regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis holds great potential for overcoming drug resistance—a major challenge in treating cancer. The considerable role of nanobiotechnology in disease treatment has been widely reported, but further and more systematic discussion on how nanobiotechnology enhances the therapeutic efficacy on ferroptosis-associated diseases still needs to be improved. Moreover, while the exciting therapeutic potential of ferroptosis in cancer has been relatively well summarized, its applications in other diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and kidney disease, remain underreported. Consequently, it is necessary to fill these gaps to further complete the applications of nanobiotechnology in ferroptosis. In this review, we provide an extensive introduction to the background of ferroptosis and elaborate its regulatory network. Subsequently, we discuss the various advantages of combining nanobiotechnology with ferroptosis to enhance therapeutic efficacy and reduce the side effects of ferroptosis-associated diseases. Finally, we analyze and discuss the feasibility of nanobiotechnology and ferroptosis in improving clinical treatment outcomes based on clinical needs, as well as the current limitations and future directions of nanobiotechnology in the applications of ferroptosis, which will not only provide significant guidance for the clinical applications of ferroptosis and nanobiotechnology but also accelerate their clinical translations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self‐assembled supramolecular DNA tetrahedra composed of programmed sequence‐engineered complementary base‐paired strands represent elusive nanostructures having key contributions to the development and diverse applications of DNA nanotechnology. By appropriate engineering of the strands, DNA tetrahedra of tuneable sizes and chemical functionalities were designed. Programmed functionalities for diverse applications were integrated into tetrahedra structures including sequence‐specific recognition strands (aptamers), catalytic DNAzymes, nanoparticles, proteins, or fluorophore. The article presents a comprehensive review addressing methods to assemble and characterize the DNA tetrahedra nanostructures, and diverse applications of DNA tetrahedra framework are discussed. Topics being addressed include the application of structurally functionalized DNA tetrahedra nanostructure for the assembly of diverse optical or electrochemical sensing platforms and functionalized intracellular sensing and imaging modules. In addition, the triggered reconfiguration of DNA tetrahedra nanostructures and dynamic networks and circuits emulating biological transformations are introduced. Moreover, the functionalization of DNA tetrahedra frameworks with nanoparticles provides building units for the assembly of optical devices and for the programmed crystallization of nanoparticle superlattices. Finally, diverse applications of DNA tetrahedra in the field of nanomedicine are addressed. These include the DNA tetrahedra‐assisted permeation of nanocarriers into cells for imaging, controlled drug release, active chemodynamic/photodynamic treatment of target tissues, and regenerative medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is a potential biomaterial for tissue engineering, photothermal therapy, and drug delivery. However, the hydrophobic nature of rGO results in poor dispersibility in a physiologically relevant aqueous environment, limiting its biomedical applications. To surmount this problem, here, we have developed a silanized derivative of reduced graphene oxide (rSiGO) using 3‐Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane and evaluated its impact on [I] stability of rGO in different aqueous solvents, [ii] drug loading capacities, and [iii] biocompatibility. The physico‐chemical characterization suggested that silanization alters the 2D carbon skeleton of rGO to a certain extent and improves its aqueous dispersibility and drug‐loading capacity. The in vitro cytocompatibility study showed that rSiGO was compatible with the human dermal fibroblasts and murine fibroblast cell lines. It was also found that rSiGO possesses a higher loading capacity for hydrophilic drugs than rGO. The drug‐loaded rSiGO showed higher cytotoxicity against hepatocarcinoma cells by inducing intracellular reactive oxygen species production, apoptosis, and nuclear fragmentation. In vivo systemic toxicity studies in mice showed that the rSiGO is nontoxic at the tested concentration. These results clearly showed that silanization improves the aqueous dispersibility, drug loading capacity, and biocompatibility of rGO making it a better candidate for various biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is now the leading cause of cancer‐related mortality, eclipsing all other cancer forms, and of all lung malignancies, non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) makes up around 85%. Recently, the use of vectors in gene therapy besides chemotherapy to treat malignancies brought on by gene mutations has gained prominence. Therapeutic molecule inhalation is a direct approach to lung‐targeted medication delivery with low nonspecific toxicity and limited drug exposure. Treatment for lung cancer with chemotherapy and immunotherapy can be aided by inhalable nanomedicine through advanced mechanisms. Viral and nonviral vectors, such as lipid‐based nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and inorganic nanoparticles, have all drawn a lot of interest for their ability to increase effects and decrease side effects. Nanocarriers have a significant impact on targeted gene delivery, bioavailability, stability, and residence in target areas. The inhaled pulmonary gene delivery approach, when combined with nanomedicine, will offer a noninvasive and successful way to treat lung cancer by taking use of the physiological properties of the lung. The authors have majorly used data from PubMed and Google Scholar to obtain the relevant information required for the article. In general, this review concentrates on the usage of various inhalable nanocarriers, which might serve as an inspiration for the creation and deployment of more potent genetic therapy for the treatment of lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Multidomain peptides (MDPs) are amino acid sequences that self-assemble to form supramolecular hydrogels under physiological conditions that have shown promise for a number of biomedical applications. K2(SL)6K2 ("K2"), a widely studied MDP, has demonstrated the ability to enhance the humoral immune response to co-delivered antigen. Herein, we sought to explore the in vitro and in vivo properties of a peptide with the same sequence but opposite chirality (D-K2) since peptides composed of D-amino acids are resistant to protease degradation and potentially more immunostimulatory than their canonical counterparts. Methods: K2 and D-K2 hydrogels were characterized and evaluated in vitro using circular dichroism, rheology, cryo-electron microscopy, and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching studies. In vivo experiments in SKH-1 mice were conducted to evaluate both ovalbumin release from the hydrogels and hydrogel degradation. The injection site of the hydrogels was analyzed using histology and humoral immunity was assessed by ELISA. Results: In vitro, the enantiomeric hydrogels exhibited similar rheological properties, and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching experiments demonstrated that the diffusion of ovalbumin (OVA), a model antigen, was similar within both hydrogels. In vivo, K2 and D-K2 peptide hydrogels had similar OVA release rates, both releasing 89% of the antigen within 8 days. Both hydrogels elicited a similar antigen-specific humoral immune response. However, the in vivo degradation of the D-K2 hydrogel progressed significantly slower than K2. After 4 weeks in vivo, only 23 ± 7% of the K2 hydrogel remained at the injection site compared to 94 ± 7% of the D-K2 hydrogel, likely due to their different protease susceptibilities. Conclusion: Taken together, these data suggest that peptide chirality can be a useful tool for increasing hydrogel residence time for biomedical applications that would benefit from long persistence times and that, if an antigen releases over a sufficiently short period, release can be largely independent of degradation rate, though slower-diffusing payloads may exhibit degradation rate dependence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder, and the current treatment options are limited. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos) have garnered significant attention due to their unique biological properties, showcasing tremendous potential as an acellular alternative therapy for AD. MSC-Exos exhibit excellent biocompatibility and low immunogenicity, enabling them to effectively cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and deliver therapeutic molecules directly to target cells. They are highly efficacious in delivering nucleic acid-based drugs. Moreover, the production process of MSC-Exos benefits from a high proliferation capacity and multilineage differentiation potential, allowing for production while maintaining a stable composition. Despite the significant theoretical advantages of MSC-Exos, their clinical use still faces multiple challenges, including crosscontamination during isolation and purification processes, the complexity of their components, and the presence of potential adverse paracrine factors. Future research needs to focus on optimizing separation and purification techniques, enhancing delivery methods to improve therapeutic efficacy, and performing detailed analyses of the components of MSC-Exos. In summary, MSC-Exos hold promise as an effective option for the treatment of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases, driving their clinical research and use in related fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): Cerium oxide nanoparticles (Ceo2 NPs) are considered one of the most effective nanomaterials for drug delivery. The current study aimed to investigate the anticancer activities of doxorubicin-loaded Ceo2 NPs (DOX-Ceo2 NPs) against the MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell line. Materials and Methods: Ceo2 NPs were synthesized using the GREEN synthesis method and loaded with DOX (DOX-Ceo2 NPs). The physicochemical properties of the Ceo2 NPs were evaluated using FTIR, XRD, DLS, zeta potential, and electron microscopy (SEM/TEM). Cultured MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with different concentrations of bare Ceo2 NPs, free DOX, and DOX-Ceo2 NPs. In addition, HDF cells were treated with different concentrations of Ceo2 NPs. MTT, wound healing, and flow cytometry assays were performed to determine the cell viability, migration, and apoptosis, respectively. qPCR was performed to investigate the expression of genes involved in apoptosis, including caspase (CASP) 3, 8, 9, and Bcl-2. Results: The XRD and FTIR results confirmed the synthesis of pure and crystalline structured-Ceo2 NPs. The average size, PDI, and zeta potential of the Ceo2 NPs were approximately 239.1 nm, 0.074, and -9.04 mV, respectively. In vitro assays showed that DOX-Ceo2 NPs exhibited higher cell proliferation inhibition, migration suppression, and apoptosis induction through the upregulation of CASP3, CASP8, and CASP9 genes and downregulation of Bcl-2. Conclusion: Our data demonstrate the potential of Ceo2 NPs for the efficient delivery of DOX and, subsequently, the improvement of its anticancer activities. Therefore, DOX-Ceo2 NPs have the potential to be proposed as promising anticancer agents for breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, and current treatments are inadequate due to unwarranted side effects and lack of specificity resulting in off target consequences. Artesunate is a synthetic anti-malarial drug that exerts inhibitory effects on cancer cell lines via apoptosis and has been used treating some cancers. This study investigated the anticancer effects of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles conjugated with chitosan, polyethylene glycol, folic acid, and artesunate in vivo and in vitro. Materials and Methods: Nanoparticles were synthesized by co-precipitation; morphology and size were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the presence of the components was verified by nanoscale Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). 4T1 murine mammary tumor cells were treated with nanoparticles, and cell viability was determined by MTT assay. 4T1 cells were also subcutaneously injected into BALB/c mice, and magnetic resonance imaging was carried out two weeks later to determine tumor size among the groups. Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and IL-4 levels (in splenocytes culture supernatant) were measured by ELISA, and tumors, surrounding tissues, and mouse livers were histopathologically studied. Results: The nanoparticle made in this article had good anticancer effects and caused apoptosis in cancer cells in breast cancer, and also strengthened the cellular immune system and further increased interferon gamma and increased the half-life of mice with cancer, while this nanoparticle It did not have the side effects of chemotherapy drugs. Conclusion: Artesunate-containing nanoparticles decreased 4T1 cell viability and increased apoptosis to a greater extent than nanoparticles without the drug. In vivo, artesunate nanoparticles showed no toxicity and were more effective in decreasing tumor size than control. They were also associated with increased survival, increased IFN-γ, and decreased IL-4 levels in the spleen. The findings show the drug targets cancer cells effectively with minimal side effects due to its herbal nature and targeted nano delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanomedicine, leveraging the unique properties of nanoparticles, has revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases. Among various nanotechnological advancements, ultrasound-mediated drug delivery using micro- and nanobubbles offers promising solutions to overcome the blood-brain barrier (BBB), enhancing the precision and efficacy of therapeutic interventions. This review explores the principles, current clinical applications, challenges, and future directions of ultrasound-mediated drug delivery systems in treating stroke, brain tumors, neurodegenerative diseases, and neuroinflammatory disorders. Additionally, ongoing clinical trials and potential advancements in this field are discussed, providing a comprehensive overview of the impact of nanomedicine on neurological diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease spread by the bite of an infected sandfly and caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. Currently, there is no vaccine available for leishmaniasis in humans, and the existing chemotherapy methods face various clinical challenges. The majority of drugs are limited to a few toxic compounds, with some parasite strains developing resistance. Therefore, the discovery and development of a new anti‐leishmanial compound is crucial. One promising strategy involves the use of nanoparticle delivery systems to accelerate the effectiveness of existing treatments. In this study, Amphotericin B (AmB) was incorporated into functionalized carbon nanotube (f‐CNT) and evaluated for its efficacy against Leishmania major in vitro and in a BALB/c mice model. The increase in footpad thickness was measured, and real‐time PCR was used to quantify the parasite load post‐infection. Levels of nitric oxide and cytokines IL‐4 and IFN‐γ were also determined. We found that f‐CNT‐AmB significantly reduced the levels of promastigotes and amastigotes of the Leishmania parasite. The nanoparticle showed strong anti‐leishmanial activity with an IC50 of 0.00494 ± 0.00095 mg/mL for promastigotes and EC50 of 0.00294 ± 0.00065 mg/mL for amastigotes at 72 h post‐infection, without causing harm to mice macrophages. Treatment of infected BALB/c mice with f‐CNT‐AmB resulted in a significant decrease in cutaneous leishmania (CL) lesion size in the foot pad, as well as reduced Leishmania burden in both lymph nodes and spleen. The levels of nitric oxide and IFN‐γ significantly increased in the f‐CNT‐AmB treated groups. Also, our results showed that the level of IL‐4 significantly decreased after f‐CNT‐AmB treatment in comparison to other groups. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that AmB loaded into f‐CNT is significantly more effective than AmB alone in inhibiting parasite propagation and promoting a shift towards a Th1 response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug delivery systems (DDS) have improved therapeutic agent administration by enhancing efficacy and patient compliance while minimizing side effects. They enable targeted delivery, controlled release, and improved bioavailability. Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS) offer non-invasive medication administration and have evolved to include methods such as chemical enhancers, iontophoresis, microneedles (MN), and nanocarriers. MN technology provides innovative solutions for chronic metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity using various MN types. For diabetes management, MNs enable continuous glucose monitoring, diabetic wound healing, and painless insulin delivery. For obesity treatment, MNs provide sustained transdermal delivery of anti-obesity drugs or nanoparticles (NPs). Hybrid systems integrating wearable sensors and smart materials enhance treatment effectiveness and patient management. Nanotechnology has advanced drug delivery by integrating nano-scaled materials like liposomes and polymeric NPs with MNs. In diabetes management, glucose-responsive NPs facilitate smart insulin delivery. At the same time, lipid nanocarriers in dissolving MNs enable extended release for obesity treatment, enhancing drug stability and absorption for improved metabolic disorder therapies. DDS for obesity and diabetes are advancing toward personalized treatments using smart MN enhanced with nanomaterials. These innovative approaches can enhance patient outcomes through precise drug administration and real-time monitoring. However, widespread implementation faces challenges in ensuring biocompatibility, improving technologies, scaling production, and obtaining regulatory approval. This review will present recent advances in developing and applying nanomaterial-enhanced MNs for diabetes and obesity management while also discussing the challenges, limitations, and future perspectives of these innovative DDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The remarkable versatility of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) makes them innovative agents across various fields, including drug delivery, biosensing, catalysis, bioimaging, and vaccine development. This paper provides a detailed review of the important role of AuNPs in drug delivery and therapeutics. We begin by exploring traditional drug delivery systems (DDS), highlighting the role of nanoparticles in revolutionizing drug delivery techniques. We then describe the unique and intriguing properties of AuNPs that make them exceptional for drug delivery. Their shapes, functionalization, drug-loading bonds, targeting mechanisms, release mechanisms, therapeutic effects, and cellular uptake methods are discussed, along with relevant examples from the literature. Lastly, we present the drug delivery applications of AuNPs across various medical domains, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, ocular diseases, and diabetes, with a focus on in vitro and in vivo cancer research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eye disorders affect a substantial portion of the global population, yet the availability of efficacious ophthalmic drug products remains limited. This can be partly ascribed to a number of factors: (1) inadequate understanding of physiological barriers, treatment strategies, drug and polymer properties, and delivery systems; (2) challenges in effectively delivering drugs to the anterior and posterior segments of the eye due to anatomical and physiological constraints; and (3) manufacturing and regulatory hurdles in ocular drug product development. The present review discusses innovative ocular delivery and treatments, encompassing implants, liposomes, nanoparticles, nanomicelles, microparticles, iontophoresis, in situ gels, contact lenses, microneedles, hydrogels, bispecific antibodies, and gene delivery strategies. Furthermore, this review also introduces advanced manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing and hot-melt extrusion (HME), aimed at improving bioavailability, reducing therapeutic dosages and side effects, facilitating the design of personalized ophthalmic dosage forms, as well as enhancing patient compliance. This comprehensive review lastly offers insights into digital healthcare, market trends, and industry and regulatory perspectives pertaining to ocular product development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) encompasses a broad spectrum of techniques that have been utilized by pharmaceutical companies for decades, including machine learning, deep learning, and other advanced computational methods. These innovations have unlocked unprecedented opportunities for the acceleration of drug discovery and delivery, the optimization of treatment regimens, and the improvement of patient outcomes. AI is swiftly transforming the pharmaceutical industry, revolutionizing everything from drug development and discovery to personalized medicine, including target identification and validation, selection of excipients, prediction of the synthetic route, supply chain optimization, monitoring during continuous manufacturing processes, or predictive maintenance, among others. While the integration of AI promises to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve both medicines and patient health, it also raises important questions from a regulatory point of view. In this review article, we will present a comprehensive overview of AI's applications in the pharmaceutical industry, covering areas such as drug discovery, target optimization, personalized medicine, drug safety, and more. By analyzing current research trends and case studies, we aim to shed light on AI's transformative impact on the pharmaceutical industry and its broader implications for healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Oral insulin delivery has received much attention over the past 20 years due to its high compliance. The aim of this study is to prepare nanoparticles for the oral delivery of insulin; Methods: Fucoidan and protamine were used to prepare a pH-sensitive nanoparticle via self-assembly. The secondary structure and in vitro stability of the nanoparticles were characterized using FTIR, XRD, ITC, and TEM. the nanoparticles had a controlled release effect on insulin in simulated intestinal fluid. The pre-liminary therapeutic effect on high-fat-fed type 2 diabetic mice; Results: When the fucoidan/protamine mass ratio was 10:3 (w/w), the particle size and zeta potential were 140.83 ± 1.64 nm and −48.13 ± 0.61 mV.The encapsulation efficiency of insulin was 62.97 ± 0.59%. The preliminary therapeutic effect on type 2 diabetic mice showed that the fasting blood glucose of diabetic mice decreased from 10.28 ± 0.88 mmol/L to 9.22 ± 0.64 mmol/L, the area under the curve value of oral glucose tolerance test was reduced by 11.70%, and the insulin se-cretion of diabetic mice was increased by 13.3%; Conclusions: The nanoparticles were prepared successfully by self-assembly. The empty and insulin-loaded nanoparticles remained stable in simulated gastric fluid, and the nanoparticles had a controlled release effect on insulin in simulated intestinal fluid. Moreover, insulin-loaded nanoparticles could relieve on type 2 diabetic mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has highlighted niclosamide (NIC) as a promising treatment for COVID-19. However, its clinical application is limited due to its poor water solubility, resulting in low bioavailability. Methods: To address this issue, we developed a AuNP-HA-NIC system, which combines gold nanoparticles with hyaluronic acid to enhance drug delivery. Our comprehensive characterization of the system revealed that hyaluronic acid with specific molecular weights, particularly those exposed to electron-beam irradiation between 2 and 20 kGy, produced the most stable nanoparticles for efficient drug loading and delivery. Results: Additionally, the AuNP-HA-NIC system exhibits a significant sensitivity to pH changes, which is a critical feature for targeted drug release. Under acidic conditions mimicking the stomach and small intestine, minimal drug release was observed, indicating the effective prevention of premature drug release in the gastrointestinal tract. Furthermore, the integration of a targeting aptamer established specific binding abilities towards the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, distinguishing it from other coronaviruses. Conclusions: As research progresses, and with further in vivo testing and optimization, the AuNP-HA-NIC–aptamer system holds great promise as a game-changer in the field of antiviral therapeutics, particularly in the battle against COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The pharmacy profession has undergone significant changes driven by advancements in patient care and healthcare systems. The FDA approval of Spritam® (levetiracetam), the first 3D-printed drug, has sparked increased interest in the use of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing for pharmaceutical applications, particularly in the production of polypills. Methods: This review provides an overview of FDM 3D printing in the development of pharmaceutical dosage forms, focusing on its operation, printing parameters, materials, additives, advantages, and limitations. Key aspects, such as the ability to personalize medication and the challenges associated with the technique, including drug stability at high temperatures, are discussed. Results: Fourteen studies relevant to FDM 3D-printed polypills were analyzed from an initial pool of 60. The increasing number of publications highlights the growing global interest in this technology, with the UK contributing the highest number of studies. Conclusions: FDM 3D printing offers significant potential for personalized medicine by enabling precise control over dosage forms and tailoring treatments to individual patient needs. However, limitations such as high printing temperatures and the lack of standardized GMP guidelines for large-scale production must be addressed to fully realize its potential in pharmaceutical manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a safe and efficient method of targeted drug delivery using pulsed electric fields (PEF), one that is based on the phenomenon of electroporation. However, the problems of electric field homogeneity within a tumor can cause a diminishing of the treatment efficacy, resulting only in partial response to the procedure. This work used gold nano-particles for electric field amplification, introducing the capability to improve available elec-trochemotherapy methods and solve problems associated with field non-homogeneity. Methods: We characterized the potential use of gold nanoparticles of 13 nm diameter (AuNPs: 13 nm) in combination with microsecond (0.6–1.5 kV/cm × 100 μs × 8 (1 Hz)) and nanosecond (6 kV/cm × 300–700 ns × 100 (1, 10, 100 kHz and 1 MHz)) electric field pulses. Finally, we tested the most prominent protocols (microsecond and nanosecond) in the context of bleomycin-based electrochemotherapy (4T1 mammary cancer cell line). Results: In the nano-pulse range, the synergistic effects (improved permeabilization and electrotransfer) were profound, with increased pulse burst frequency. Addi-tionally, AuNPs not only reduced the permeabilization thresholds but also affected pore resealing. It was shown that a saturated cytotoxic response with AuNPs can be triggered at significantly lower electric fields and that the AuNPs themselves are non-toxic for the cells either separately or in combination with bleomycin. Conclusions: The used electric fields are considered sub-threshold and/or not applicable for electrochemotherapy, however, when combined with AuNPs results in successful ECT, indicating the methodology's prospective applicability as an anticancer treatment method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Microparticle-based drug delivery systems offer several advantages for protein-based drug formulations, enhancing patient compliance and therapeutic efficiency through the sustained delivery of the active pharmaceutical ingredient. Over the past few decades, the microfluidics method has emerged as a continuous manufacturing process for preparing drug-encapsulating microparticles, mainly for small molecule drugs. However, comparative assessments for the conventional batch method vs. the microfluidics method for protein-based drug formulations have been lacking. The main objective of this study was to generate immunomodulatory protein drug-loaded injectable formulations using both conventional batch and microfluidics methods. Methods: Therefore, rhCCL22-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microparticles were prepared by conventional homogenization and microfluidics methods. Results: The resulting microparticles were analyzed comparatively, focusing on critical quality attributes such as microparticle size, size distribution, morphology, drug encapsulation efficiency, release kinetics, and batch-to-batch variations in relation to the manufacturing method. Our results demonstrated that the conventional method resulted in microparticles with denser surface porosity and wider size distribution as opposed to microparticles prepared by the microfluidics method, which could contribute to a significant difference in the drug-release kinetics. Additionally, our findings indicated minimal variation within batches for the microparticles prepared by the microfluidics method. Conclusions: Overall, this study highlights the comparative assessment of several critical quality attributes and batch variations associated with the manufacturing methods of protein-loaded microparticles which is crucial for ensuring consistency in efficacy, regulatory compliance, and quality control in the drug formulation manufacturing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is an emerging noninvasive and label-free method for capturing the vasculature, hemodynamics, and physiological responses following drug delivery. PAI combines the advantages of optical and acoustic imaging to provide high-resolution images with multiparametric information. In recent decades, PAI's abilities have been used to determine reactivity after the administration of various drugs. This study investigates photoacoustic imaging as a label-free method of monitoring drug delivery responses by observing changes in the vascular system and oxygen saturation levels across various biological tissues. In addition, we discuss photoacoustic studies that monitor the biodistribution and pharmacokinetics of exogenous contrast agents, offering contrast-enhanced imaging of diseased regions. Finally, we demonstrate the crucial role of photoacoustic imaging in understanding drug delivery mechanisms and treatment processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virus-like particles (VLPs) are nanoparticles that are self-assembled from one or more structural proteins, which can be arranged in several layers or contain a lipid outer membrane. Due to the lack of genetic material, VLPs cannot infect host cells, but are highly immunogenic and can induce immune responses different from conventional inactivated vaccines. VLPs can be produced using a variety of systems including bacterial, yeast, plant, insect and mammalian cells. Compared with traditional vaccines, VLPs have incomparable advantages, so they are becoming more and more popular in the biomedical field. To date, a series of vaccine candidates based on VLPs have been developed for immunization and prevention of various infectious diseases. At the same time, the recent successful application of VLPs in targeted drug delivery and gene therapy has attracted attention. This paper mainly reviews the commonly used expression systems of VLPs and the research progress of their applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a severe condition primarily affecting premature infants with a gestational age (GA) of 30 weeks or less and a birth weight (BW) of 1500 g or less. The objective of this review is to examine the risk factors, pathogenesis, and current treatments for ROP, such as cryotherapy, laser photocoagulation, and anti-VEGF therapy, while exploring the limitations of these approaches. Additionally, this review evaluates emerging nanotherapeutic strategies to address these challenges, aiming to improve ROP management. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to gather data on the pathogenesis, traditional treatment methods, and novel nanotherapeutic approaches for ROP. This included assessing the efficacy and safety profiles of cryotherapy, laser treatment, anti-VEGF therapy, and nanotherapies currently under investigation. Results: Traditional treatments, while effective in reducing disease progression, exhibit limitations, including long-term complications, tissue damage, and systemic side effects. Nanotherapeutic approaches, on the other hand, have shown potential in offering targeted drug delivery with reduced systemic toxicity, improved ocular drug penetration, and sustained release, which could decrease the frequency of treatments and enhance therapeutic outcomes. Conclusions: Nanotherapies represent a promising advancement in ROP treatment, offering safer and more effective management strategies. These innovations could address the limitations of traditional therapies, reducing complications and improving outcomes for premature infants affected by ROP. Further research is needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-healing diabetic wounds represent a significant clinical challenge globally, necessitating innovative approaches in drug delivery to enhance wound healing. Understanding the pathogenesis of these wounds is crucial for developing effective treatments. Bioactive dressings and polymeric nanofibers have emerged as promising modalities, with silk biomaterials gaining attention for their unique properties in diabetic wound healing. Purpose of Review: The purpose of this review is to examine the challenges and innovations in treating non-healing diabetic wounds, emphasizing the global burden and the need for effective solutions. This review explores the complex mechanisms of wound healing in diabetes and evaluates the therapeutic potential of bioactive dressings and polymeric nanofibers. Special focus is given to the application of silk biomaterials, particularly silk fibroin, for wound healing, detailing their properties, mechanisms, and clinical translation. This review also describes various nanofiber fabrication methods, especially electrospinning technology, and presents existing evidence on the effectiveness of electrospun silk fibroin formulations. Recent Findings: Recent advancements highlight the potential of silk biomaterials in diabetic wound healing, owing to their biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and controlled drug release properties. Electrospun silk fibroin-based formulations have shown promising results in preclinical and clinical studies, demonstrating accelerated wound closure and tissue regeneration. Summary: Non-healing diabetic wounds present a significant healthcare burden globally, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies. Bioactive dressings and polymeric nanofibers, particularly silk-based formulations fabricated through electrospinning, offer promising avenues for enhancing diabetic wound healing. Further research is warranted to optimize formulation parameters and validate efficacy in larger clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As large language models continue to expand in size and diversity, their substantial potential and the relevance of their applications are increasingly being acknowledged. The rapid advancement of these models also holds profound implications for the long-term design of stimulus-responsive materials used in drug delivery. Methods: The large model used Hugging Face's Transformers package with BigBird, Gemma, and GPT NeoX architectures. Pre-training used the PubChem dataset, and fine-tuning used QM7b. Chemist instruction training was based on Direct Preference Optimization. Drug Likeness, Synthetic Accessibility, and PageRank Scores were used to filter molecules. All computational chemistry simulations were performed using ORCA and Time-Dependent Density-Functional Theory. Results: To optimize large models for extensive dataset processing and comprehensive learning akin to a chemist's intuition, the integration of deeper chemical insights is imperative. Our study initially compared the performance of BigBird, Gemma, GPT NeoX, and others, specifically focusing on the design of photoresponsive drug delivery molecules. We gathered excitation energy data through computational chemistry tools and further investigated light-driven isomerization reactions as a critical mechanism in drug delivery. Additionally, we explored the effectiveness of incorporating human feedback into reinforcement learning to imbue large models with chemical intuition, enhancing their understanding of relationships involving -N=N- groups in the photoisomerization transitions of photoresponsive molecules. Conclusions: We implemented an efficient design process based on structural knowledge and data, driven by large language model technology, to obtain a candidate dataset of specific photoswitchable molecules. However, the lack of specialized domain datasets remains a challenge for maximizing model performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Poly(amidoamine) dendrimers have been widely investigated as potential nanomaterials that can enhance the skin permeation of topically applied drugs. This article reviews the studies that have used dendrimers as penetration enhancers and examines the mechanisms by which enhancement is claimed. Key findings: A wide range of studies have demonstrated that, in certain circumstances and for certain drugs, the incorporation of dendrimers into a topically applied formulation can significantly increase the amount of drug passing into and through the skin. In some cases, dendrimers offered little or no enhancement of skin permeation, suggesting that the drug-dendrimer interaction and the selection of a specific dendrimer were central to ensuring optimal enhancement of skin permeation. Significant interactions between dendrimers and other formulation components were also reported in some cases. Summary: Dendrimers offer substantial potential for enhancing drug delivery into and across the skin, putatively by mechanisms that include occlusion and changes to surface tension. However, most of these studies are conducted in vitro and limited progress has been made beyond such laboratory studies, some of which are conducted using membranes of limited relevance to humans, such as rodent skin. Thus, the outcomes and claims of such studies should be treated with caution. Graphical Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated demyelinating disease of the nervous system that leads to neurological dysfunctions and severe disabilities. It is worth noting that conventional pharmacotherapy is poorly selective and causes toxicity problems and several systemic side effects. Thus, there is a need to develop new approaches to this medical challenge. The use of nanocarriers for drug delivery represents a good strategy to overcome several issues such as high therapeutic drug doses with side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain, and drug degradation processes; in addition, nanocarriers can provide controlled and targeted drug release. This review describes the application of liposomes for the delivery of pharmaceutical actives to target MS. Firstly, MS is explained. Then, liposomes are described along with their preparation, characterization, and stability. The literature about the use of liposomes for the treatment of MS is then analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano- and micro-sized vesicular and colloidal structures mediate cell–cell communication. They are important players in the physiology of plants, animals, and humans, and are a subject of increasing interest. We investigated the effect of three surfactants, N-cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and Triton X-100 (TX100), and two anionic polyelectrolytes, sodium polystyrene sulfonate (NaPSS) and sodium polymethacrylate (NaPMA), on nanoliposomes. In addition, the effect of SDS and TX100 on selected biological membranes (erythrocytes and microalgae) was investigated. The liposomes were produced by extrusion and evaluated by microcalorimetry and light scattering, based on the total intensity of the scattered light (Itot), hydrodynamic radius (Rh), radius of gyration (Rg), shape parameter p (=Rh/Rg,0), and polydispersity index. The EPs shed from erythrocytes and microalgae Dunaliella tertiolecta and Phaeodactylum tricornutum were visualized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and analyzed by flow cytometry (FCM). The Rh and Itot values in POPC liposome suspensions with added CPC, SDS, and TX100 were roughly constant up to the respective critical micelle concentrations (CMCs) of the surfactants. At higher compound concentrations, Itot dropped towards zero, whereas Rh increased to values higher than in pure POPC suspensions (Rh ≈ 60–70 nm), indicating the disintegration of liposomes and formation of larger particles, i.e., various POPC–S aggregates. Nanoliposomes were stable upon the addition of NaPSS and NaPMA, as indicated by the constant Rh and Itot values. The interaction of CPC, SDS, or TX100 with liposomes was exothermic, while there were no measurable heat effects with NaPSS or NaPMA. The SDS and TX100 increased the number density of EPs several-fold in erythrocyte suspensions and up to 30-fold in the conditioned media of Dunaliella tertiolecta at the expense of the number density of cells, which decreased to less than 5% in erythrocytes and several-fold in Dunaliella tertiolecta. The SDS and TX100 did not affect the number density of the microalgae Phaeodactylum tricornutum, while the number density of EPs was lower in the conditioned media than in the control, but increased several-fold in a concentration-dependent manner. Our results indicate that amphiphilic molecules need to be organized in nanosized particles to match the local curvature of the membrane for facilitated uptake. To pursue this hypothesis, other surfactants and biological membranes should be studied in the future for more general conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since sarcopenia is a progressive condition that leads to decreased muscle mass and function, especially in elderly people, it is a public health problem that requires attention from researchers. This review aims to highlight drug delivery systems that have a high and efficient therapeutic potential for sarcopenia. Current as well as future research needs to consider the barriers encountered in the realization of delivery systems, such as the route of administration, the interaction of the systems with the aggressive environment of the human body, the efficient delivery and loading of the systems with therapeutic agents, and the targeted delivery of therapeutic agents into the muscle tissue without creating undesirable adverse effects. Thus, this paper sets the framework of existing drug delivery possibilities for the treatment of sarcopenia, serving as an inception point for future interdisciplinary studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is growing evidence on the significant role of prolonged inflammation in triggering and progressing of numerous diseases with substantial health and socioeconomic impacts, such as musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and autoimmune disorders, and cancer. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop therapies that can overcome the main challenges of currently used approaches, such as non-target action, partial modulation of the complex inflammatory pathways, and short-term effects, to effectively manage and resolve chronic inflammatory states. This work investigates the therapeutic synergy of clinically relevant anti-inflammatory agents approaching naïve and classically activated macrophages owing to their central role in inflammation. Aiming at human therapies, a dual-loading nanoplatform reunites molecules with different physico-chemical properties in a single system, seeking to more effectively and comprehensively regulate macrophage functions for precision cell guidance and greater versatility in disease managing. To build this platform, palmitic acid grafted chitosan, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles, the clinically approved NSAID celecoxib (also known as Celebrex®), and RNA technologies were combined into superparamagnetic polymeric micelles (SPMs). Our findings demonstrated that traditional anti-inflammatory drugs such as celecoxib and microRNA molecules were efficiently delivered by the SPMs, altering the inflammatory profile of naïve (M0φ) and M1-primed macrophages (M1φ) assessed by gene and protein expression. The impact of the dual-loaded SPMs in naïve Mφ is an interesting finding towards the modulation of the initial immune response, reducing the potential for chronic inflammation and promoting tissue healing. Collectively, these encouraging results demonstrate the promise of multi-nanomedicine strategies to enhance the efficacy of therapeutic interventions by offering a fresh approach to more precisely and carefully regulated nanotherapeutics delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart materials for drug delivery are designed to offer a precise and controlled release of therapeutic agents. By responding to specific physiological stimuli, such as changes in temperature and pH, these materials improve treatment efficacy and minimize side effects, paving the way for personalized therapeutic solutions. In this study, we present the fabrication of dual-responsive alginate/poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) microspheres, having the ability to respond to both pH and temperature variations and embedding the lipophilic bioactive compound Ozoile. Ozoile® Stable Ozonides is obtained from extra virgin olive oil and acts as an inducer, interacting with major biological pathways by means of modulating the systemic redox balance. The dual-responsive microspheres are prepared by electrospray technique without the use of organic solvents. PNIPAM is synthesized by radical polymerization using the APS/TEMED redox initiators. The microspheres are further optimized with a chitosan coating to enhance their stability and modulate the degradation kinetics of the gel matrix. A comprehensive morphological analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and degradation assays are conducted to confirm the structural stability and pH-responsive behavior of the hydrogel microspheres. A study of the volume phase transition temperature (VPTT) by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is used to assess the microsphere thermal response. This research introduces a promising methodology for the development of targeted drug delivery systems, which are particularly useful in the context of oxidative stress modulation and inflammation management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel class of pH-responsive polymers, acetalated dextran, has emerged in the field of biomaterials. These versatile materials are derived from dextran through a simple acetalation reaction, allowing for the creation of polymers with a tunable release profile which allows the controlled release of encapsulated therapeutics in response to acidic environments. Despite their recent introduction, acetalated dextran has rapidly garnered significant interest due to its potential for various therapeutic applications. This review delves specifically into the recent advancements of ethoxy acetalated dextran or Ace-DEX, a particular acetalated dextran with a distinct advantage: its degradation products (acetone and ethanol) are less toxic compared to other variants that produce methanol. The focus of this review is the diverse range of biomedical applications currently being explored for Ace-DEX-based scaffolds. Finally, this review concludes by addressing the existing challenges associated with Ace-DEX and outlining potential future research directions within this promising field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Carbon dots (CDs) are carbon-based nanomaterials with versatile applications, including fluorescence imaging, drug and gene transport, drug delivery, medical diagnosis, and biosensing. In this study, we successfully synthesized various CDs without significantly impacting the cell viability of cancer cells, which suggests the potential for future bioimaging and drug delivery applications. These findings contribute to advancing the potential of CDs in various biomedical research contexts. Backgroung: The rising complexity and associated side effects of cancer treatments highlight the need for safer and more effective therapeutic agents. Carbon-based nanomaterials such as CDs have been gaining prominence for their unique characteristics, opening avenues for diverse applications such as fluorescence imaging, drug and gene transport, controlled drug delivery, medical diagnosis, and biosensing. Despite promising advancements in research, it remains imperative to scrutinize the properties and potential cytotoxicity of newly developed CDs, ensuring their viability for these applications. Methods: We synthesized four N-doped CDs through a hydrothermal method. Cell viability assays were conducted on A549 and UM-UC-5 cancer cells at a range of concentrations and incubation times, both individually and with the chemotherapeutic agent 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Results: The obtained results suggest that the newly developed CDs exhibit suitability for applications such as bioimaging, as no significant impact on cell viability was observed for CDs alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Glioblastoma (GBM), a serious brain cancer, has poor treatment outcomes despite surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. The blood–brain barrier (BBB) makes GBM-targeted drug delivery difficult. Recent studies have shown that nanomedicine delivery systems (NDDSs) can target GBM safely and effectively. In this review, we look at ways to overcome the BBB with NDDSs in preclinical studies, summarize the clinical progress, and discuss strategies to improve NDDSs and speed up their use in GBM treatment through clinical trials. Glioblastoma (GBM) is a prevalent type of malignancy within the central nervous system (CNS) that is associated with a poor prognosis. The standard treatment for GBM includes the surgical resection of the tumor, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy; yet, despite these interventions, overall treatment outcomes remain suboptimal. The blood–brain barrier (BBB), which plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of brain tissue under normal physiological conditions of the CNS, also poses a significant obstacle to the effective delivery of therapeutic agents to GBMs. Recent preclinical studies have demonstrated that nanomedicine delivery systems (NDDSs) offer promising results, demonstrating both effective GBM targeting and safety, thereby presenting a potential solution for targeted drug delivery. In this review, we first explore the various strategies employed in preclinical studies to overcome the BBB for drug delivery. Subsequently, the results of the clinical translation of NDDSs are summarized, highlighting the progress made. Finally, we discuss potential strategies for advancing the development of NDDSs and accelerating their translational research through well-designed clinical trials in GBM therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractNanotechnology has significantly impacted drug discovery and development over the past three decades, offering novel insights and expanded treatment options. Key to this field is nanoparticles, ranging from 1 to 100 nanometres, with unique properties distinct from larger materials. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are particularly promising due to their low toxicity and selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells. They have shown efficacy in reducing various cancers types and mitigating conditions like diabetic nephropathy and neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. This review highlights SeNPs’ role in enhancing drug delivery systems, improving the absorption of water-soluble compounds, proteins, peptides, vaccines, and other biological therapies. By modifying nanoparticle surfaces with targeting ligands, drug delivery can achieve precise site-specific delivery, increasing effectiveness. SeNPs can be synthesised through physical, chemical, and biological methods, each offering advantages in stability, size, and application potential. Additionally, SeNPs enhance immune responses and reduce oxidative stress, validating their role in biotherapy and nanomedicine. Their ability to target macrophages and regulate polarisation underscores their potential in antimicrobial therapies. Recent advancements, such as mannosylated SeNPs for targeted delivery, exemplify innovative nanotechnology applications in medicine. Overall, SeNPs represent a promising frontier in nanomedicine, offering new avenues for treating and managing various diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paclitaxel is one of the most widely utilized anticancer drug. It displays a range of antitumor action, particularly against ovarian cancer, urologic malignancies, head tumor, and Kaposi's sarcoma. However, due to its highly lipophilic nature, poor fluid dissolvability of less 0.01 mg/mL and lack of ionizing functionalities which may enhance its solubility, there are substantial challenges associated with Paclitaxel delivery. Paclitaxel exhibited promising effects when formulated in combination with ethanol and Cremophor EL, as Taxol®. However, it is associated with various side effects, including hypersensitivity, hypotension, and peripheral neuropathy. The albumin-based Paclitaxel, Abraxane®, is a superior alternative to Taxol® as it diminishes the side effects related to Cremophor EL. Abraxane® is regarded as the gold standard for cancer treatment, but its 21% response rate suggests that more research is needed. Furthermore, the large-scale clinical use of this drug has faced considerable delay because of the absence of suitable delivery vehicles. Therefore, necessitates is the development of an alternate form of Paclitaxel that has both superior aqueous solubility as well as fewer side-effects. During the last decade, various methodologies have been explored to improve Paclitaxel's solubility with the help of co-solvents and inclusion complexes. Additionally, various methodologies report of passive targeting of cancer cells using nanoparticles, nanosuspensions, Rotaxane (a mechanically interlocked molecular system), liposomes, micelles, emulsions, gels, pastes, etc. Herein, we have comprised a brief report on various delivery techniques for Paclitaxel with improved therapeutic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since early developments in the field of mesoporous materials, mesoporous silica has attracted large interest in drug delivery, as they display an ordered array of pores with diameters ranging from 2 to 50 nm, which can be loaded with drugs. Mesoporous silica dissolves at physiological pH, triggering the release of loaded drugs. Several studies have focused on determining the key factors that determine the biodistribution, biocompatibility, and toxicity both in vitro or in vivo. However, in vivo studies focused on the degradation of mesoporous silica materials are very scarce, despite its relevance for drug release. In this perspective, recent works addressing mesoporous materials degradation in the context of drug delivery are discussed, first from a physicochemical point of view, and secondly in in vivo settings, in animal models that are the closest conditions to the encountered when the mesoporous materials are administered to humans. Finally, further discussion about the future directions in the design of mesoporous nanomaterials for therapy and for the study of their biological fate are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomimetic and biohybrid micro/nano‐structures involve the replication and creation of technologies, structures, and materials based on biological systems at the micrometer and nanometer scale. These strategies harness the natural biological principles to develop innovative treatment methods and advanced microstructure devices for noninvasive therapies. In this study, a detailed overview of fabrication processes, magnetically assisted locomotive techniques, and potential applications of biomimetic and biohybrid micro/nano‐machines are presented. The latest advancements in magnetically actuated biomimetic structures, such as annelid‐worm‐like microswimmers, jellyfish‐shaped microparticles, fish‐shaped microswimmers, and walnut‐shaped micromotors are explored. Additionally, the magnetic biohybrid systems, including sunflower seed‐based micro‐perforators, nanomotors extracted from the bamboo stem, sperm cell‐based micromotors, bacteria‐based robots, scaffold‐based microrobots, DNA‐based micromotors, microalgae‐based microswimmers, and red blood cell‐based microswimmers are also examined. A thorough investigation of the magnetically assisted locomotive behavior of these microstructure devices in biological Newtonian fluids, featuring cork‐screw motion, undulatory motion, surface wrinkling motion, traveling wave‐like motion, and ciliary stroke motion is discussed. Furthermore, unprecedented and innovative treatment methods developed using these minuscule devices such as cervical cancer treatment using tetrapod hybrid sperm micromotors, tissue regeneration using silk fibroin protein‐based magnetic microscale scaffolds, and doxorubicin drug delivery using mushroom‐based microrobots is extensively presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic nanomaterials have emerged as an effective drug‐delivery platform for targeted imaging and therapy. However, it remains challenging to fabricate biodegradable magnetic nanoparticles with controllable drug release behaviors and strong magnetic responsiveness. Here an asiaticoside‐loaded biodegradable magnetic vesicle is developed based on the self‐assembly of amphiphilic block copolymer tethered superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. Thanks to the collective properties, the magnetic vesicles show stronger magnetic responsiveness than individual nanoparticles. Additionally, the magnetic vesicles are dissociated within weeks owing to the biodegradable polymer backbone, which can significantly improve the long‐term biocompatibility of the nanomaterials. The asiaticoside‐loaded magnetic vesicles can readily release the payloads in an alternating magnetic field, likely due to the rising local temperature over the phase transition temperature of the polymers attached on nanoparticles. This work provides new insights into the design and construction of biodegradable magnetic nanomedicines for targeted drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyoxometalates (POMs) are multifunctional anionic metal‐oxygen complexes with structural and electronic diversity, as well as tunable acid‐base and redox properties, resulting in their potential as building blocks for constructing temperature‐responsive polyoxometalates‐based materials (TRPMs). TRPMs represent a class of intelligent materials exhibiting property changes in response to temperature fluctuations, offering distinctive applications in various fields such as catalysis, medicine, sensors, imaging, and so on. Though many TRPMs are reported, a systematic review including recent advances is still absent. This review provides insights into recent advancements in temperature‐responsive mechanisms, nanostructure design strategies, and the characterization of TRPMs. Special emphasis is placed on enhancing the temperature‐responsive properties of TRPMs by incorporating POMs into suitable organic ligands, such as ionic liquid cations, deep eutectic solvent cations, cationic surfactants, and polymers. The incorporation of organic ligands with POMs not only enables temperature‐responsive phase transitions but also enhances other properties, such as catalyst selectivity and drug loading capacity, expanding TRPMs applications. Consequently, this review summarizes the applications of TRPMs in catalysis, drug delivery and release, and chemical sensing, as well as discusses future technological challenges. The in‐depth understanding of TRPMs may help in the design of TRPMs from the nanoscale, guiding and inspiring future development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]