Materials Science › Biomaterials

Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery

Description

This cluster of papers focuses on the development and application of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, particularly for cancer therapy. It covers topics such as nanocarriers, surface engineering of nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, tumor targeting, polymeric nanoparticles, and the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. The research explores the synthesis, functionalization, and biomedical applications of various types of nanoparticles for drug delivery.

Keywords

Nanocarriers; Drug Delivery; Nanoparticles; Cancer Therapy; Surface Engineering; Magnetic Nanoparticles; Biomedical Applications; Tumor Targeting; Polymeric Nanoparticles; EPR Effect

When a pharmaceutical agent is encapsulated within, or attached to, a polymer or lipid, drug safety and efficacy can be greatly improved and new therapies are possible. This has provided … When a pharmaceutical agent is encapsulated within, or attached to, a polymer or lipid, drug safety and efficacy can be greatly improved and new therapies are possible. This has provided the impetus for active study of the design of degradable materials, intelligent delivery systems and approaches for delivery through different portals in the body.
The use of nanotechnology in medicine and more specifically drug delivery is set to spread rapidly. Currently many substances are under investigation for drug delivery and more specifically for cancer … The use of nanotechnology in medicine and more specifically drug delivery is set to spread rapidly. Currently many substances are under investigation for drug delivery and more specifically for cancer therapy. Interestingly pharmaceutical sciences are using nanoparticles to reduce toxicity and side effects of drugs and up to recently did not realize that carrier systems themselves may impose risks to the patient. The kind of hazards that are introduced by using nanoparticles for drug delivery are beyond that posed by conventional hazards imposed by chemicals in classical delivery matrices. For nanoparticles the knowledge on particle toxicity as obtained in inhalation toxicity shows the way how to investigate the potential hazards of nanoparticles. The toxicology of particulate matter differs from toxicology of substances as the composing chemical(s) may or may not be soluble in biological matrices, thus influencing greatly the potential exposure of various internal organs. This may vary from a rather high local exposure in the lungs and a low or neglectable exposure for other organ systems after inhalation. However, absorbed species may also influence the potential toxicity of the inhaled particles. For nanoparticles the situation is different as their size opens the potential for crossing the various biological barriers within the body. From a positive viewpoint, especially the potential to cross the blood brain barrier may open new ways for drug delivery into the brain. In addition, the nanosize also allows for access into the cell and various cellular compartments including the nucleus. A multitude of substances are currently under investigation for the preparation of nanoparticles for drug delivery, varying from biological substances like albumin, gelatine and phospholipids for liposomes, and more substances of a chemical nature like various polymers and solid metal containing nanoparticles. It is obvious that the potential interaction with tissues and cells, and the potential toxicity, greatly depends on the actual composition of the nanoparticle formulation. This paper provides an overview on some of the currently used systems for drug delivery. Besides the potential beneficial use also attention is drawn to the questions how we should proceed with the safety evaluation of the nanoparticle formulations for drug delivery. For such testing the lessons learned from particle toxicity as applied in inhalation toxicology may be of use. Although for pharmaceutical use the current requirements seem to be adequate to detect most of the adverse effects of nanoparticle formulations, it can not be expected that all aspects of nanoparticle toxicology will be detected. So, probably additional more specific testing would be needed.
Nanotechnology is the engineering and manufacturing of materials at the atomic and molecular scale. In its strictest definition from the National Nanotechnology Initiative, nanotechnology refers to structures roughly in the … Nanotechnology is the engineering and manufacturing of materials at the atomic and molecular scale. In its strictest definition from the National Nanotechnology Initiative, nanotechnology refers to structures roughly in the 1āˆ’100 nm size regime in at least one dimension. Despite this size restriction, nanotechnology commonly refers to structures that are up to several hundred nanometers in size and that are developed by top-down or bottom-up engineering of individual components. Herein, we focus on the application of nanotechnology to drug delivery and highlight several areas of opportunity where current and emerging nanotechnologies could enable entirely novel classes of therapeutics.
Drug delivery systems (DDS) such as lipid- or polymer-based nanoparticles can be designed to improve the pharmacological and therapeutic properties of drugs administered parenterally. Many of the early problems that … Drug delivery systems (DDS) such as lipid- or polymer-based nanoparticles can be designed to improve the pharmacological and therapeutic properties of drugs administered parenterally. Many of the early problems that hindered the clinical applications of particulate DDS have been overcome, with several DDS formulations of anticancer and antifungal drugs now approved for clinical use. Furthermore, there is considerable interest in exploiting the advantages of DDS for in vivo delivery of new drugs derived from proteomics or genomics research and for their use in ligand-targeted therapeutics.
ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleNEXTPolymeric Systems for Controlled Drug ReleaseKathryn E. Uhrich, Scott M. Cannizzaro, Robert S. Langer, and Kevin M. ShakesheffView Author Information Department of Chemistry, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New … ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleNEXTPolymeric Systems for Controlled Drug ReleaseKathryn E. Uhrich, Scott M. Cannizzaro, Robert S. Langer, and Kevin M. ShakesheffView Author Information Department of Chemistry, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854-8087 Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139 Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7-2RD, U.K. Cite this: Chem. Rev. 1999, 99, 11, 3181–3198Publication Date (Web):October 26, 1999Publication History Received3 February 1999Revised30 June 1999Published online26 October 1999Published inissue 10 November 1999https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/cr940351uhttps://doi.org/10.1021/cr940351uresearch-articleACS PublicationsCopyright Ā© 1999 American Chemical SocietyRequest reuse permissionsArticle Views24537Altmetric-Citations2235LEARN ABOUT THESE METRICSArticle Views are the COUNTER-compliant sum of full text article downloads since November 2008 (both PDF and HTML) across all institutions and individuals. These metrics are regularly updated to reflect usage leading up to the last few days.Citations are the number of other articles citing this article, calculated by Crossref and updated daily. Find more information about Crossref citation counts.The Altmetric Attention Score is a quantitative measure of the attention that a research article has received online. Clicking on the donut icon will load a page at altmetric.com with additional details about the score and the social media presence for the given article. Find more information on the Altmetric Attention Score and how the score is calculated. Share Add toView InAdd Full Text with ReferenceAdd Description ExportRISCitationCitation and abstractCitation and referencesMore Options Share onFacebookTwitterWechatLinked InRedditEmail Other access optionsGet e-Alertsclose SUBJECTS:Drug delivery,Monomers,Peptides and proteins,Pharmaceuticals,Polymers Get e-Alerts
Injectable nanoparticulate carriers have important potential applications such as site-specific drug delivery or medical imaging. Conventional carriers, however, cannot generally be used because they are eliminated by the reticulo-endothelial system … Injectable nanoparticulate carriers have important potential applications such as site-specific drug delivery or medical imaging. Conventional carriers, however, cannot generally be used because they are eliminated by the reticulo-endothelial system within seconds or minutes after intravenous injection. To address these limitations, monodisperse biodegradable nanospheres were developed from amphiphilic copolymers composed of two biocompatible blocks. The nanospheres exhibited dramatically increased blood circulation times and reduced liver accumulation in mice. Furthermore, they entrapped up to 45 percent by weight of the drug in the dense core in a one-step procedure and could be freeze-dried and easily redispersed without additives in aqueous solutions.
ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVReviewNEXTMagnetic Nanoparticles: Design and Characterization, Toxicity and Biocompatibility, Pharmaceutical and Biomedical ApplicationsL. Harivardhan Reddy†—, JosĆ© L. Arias§, Julien Nicolas†, and Patrick Couvreur*†View Author Information† Laboratoire de Physico-Chimie, … ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVReviewNEXTMagnetic Nanoparticles: Design and Characterization, Toxicity and Biocompatibility, Pharmaceutical and Biomedical ApplicationsL. Harivardhan Reddy†—, JosĆ© L. Arias§, Julien Nicolas†, and Patrick Couvreur*†View Author Information† Laboratoire de Physico-Chimie, Pharmacotechnie et Biopharmacie, UniversitĆ© Paris-Sud XI, UMR CNRS 8612, FacultĆ© de Pharmacie, IFR 141, 5 rue Jean-Baptiste ClĆ©ment, F-92296 ChĆ¢tenay-Malabry, France§ Departamento de Farmacia y TecnologĆ­a FarmacĆ©utica, Facultad de Farmacia, Campus Universitario de Cartuja s/n, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain— Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Sanofi, 13 Quai Jules Guesdes, F-94403 Vitry-sur-Seine, France*Phone: (+33) 1 46 83 53 96. Fax: (+33) 1 46 61 93 34. E-mail: [email protected]Cite this: Chem. Rev. 2012, 112, 11, 5818–5878Publication Date (Web):October 9, 2012Publication History Received16 February 2012Published online9 October 2012Published inissue 14 November 2012https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/cr300068phttps://doi.org/10.1021/cr300068preview-articleACS PublicationsCopyright Ā© 2012 American Chemical SocietyRequest reuse permissionsArticle Views42314Altmetric-Citations1697LEARN ABOUT THESE METRICSArticle Views are the COUNTER-compliant sum of full text article downloads since November 2008 (both PDF and HTML) across all institutions and individuals. These metrics are regularly updated to reflect usage leading up to the last few days.Citations are the number of other articles citing this article, calculated by Crossref and updated daily. Find more information about Crossref citation counts.The Altmetric Attention Score is a quantitative measure of the attention that a research article has received online. Clicking on the donut icon will load a page at altmetric.com with additional details about the score and the social media presence for the given article. Find more information on the Altmetric Attention Score and how the score is calculated. Share Add toView InAdd Full Text with ReferenceAdd Description ExportRISCitationCitation and abstractCitation and referencesMore Options Share onFacebookTwitterWechatLinked InRedditEmail Other access optionsGet e-Alertsclose SUBJECTS:Anatomy,Cells,Magnetic properties,Nanoparticles,Tumors Get e-Alerts
Nanoparticle (NP) drug delivery systems (5āˆ’250 nm) have the potential to improve current disease therapies because of their ability to overcome multiple biological barriers and releasing a therapeutic load in … Nanoparticle (NP) drug delivery systems (5āˆ’250 nm) have the potential to improve current disease therapies because of their ability to overcome multiple biological barriers and releasing a therapeutic load in the optimal dosage range. Rapid clearance of circulating nanoparticles during systemic delivery is a critical issue for these systems and has made it necessary to understand the factors affecting particle biodistribution and blood circulation half-life. In this review, we discuss the factors which can influence nanoparticle blood residence time and organ specific accumulation. These factors include interactions with biological barriers and tunable nanoparticle parameters, such as composition, size, core properties, surface modifications (pegylation and surface charge), and finally, targeting ligand functionalization. All these factors have been shown to substantially affect the biodistribution and blood circulation half-life of circulating nanoparticles by reducing the level of nonspecific uptake, delaying opsonization, and increasing the extent of tissue specific accumulation.
Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter generally in the 1–100 nm dimension range. The application of nanotechnology to medicine, known as nanomedicine, concerns the use of precisely engineered … Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter generally in the 1–100 nm dimension range. The application of nanotechnology to medicine, known as nanomedicine, concerns the use of precisely engineered materials at this length scale to develop novel therapeutic and diagnostic modalities.1,2 Nanomaterials have unique physicochemical properties, such as ultra small size, large surface area to mass ratio, and high reactivity, which are different from bulk materials of the same composition. These properties can be used to overcome some of the limitations found in traditional therapeutic and diagnostic agents. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2008); 83, 5, 761–769. doi:10.1038/sj.clpt.6100400
Liposomes, sphere-shaped vesicles consisting of one or more phospholipid bilayers, were first described in the mid-60s. Today, they are a very useful reproduction, reagent, and tool in various scientific disciplines, … Liposomes, sphere-shaped vesicles consisting of one or more phospholipid bilayers, were first described in the mid-60s. Today, they are a very useful reproduction, reagent, and tool in various scientific disciplines, including mathematics and theoretical physics, biophysics, chemistry, colloid science, biochemistry, and biology. Since then, liposomes have made their way to the market. Among several talented new drug delivery systems, liposomes characterize an advanced technology to deliver active molecules to the site of action, and at present, several formulations are in clinical use. Research on liposome technology has progressed from conventional vesicles to 'second-generation liposomes', in which long-circulating liposomes are obtained by modulating the lipid composition, size, and charge of the vesicle. Liposomes with modified surfaces have also been developed using several molecules, such as glycolipids or sialic acid. This paper summarizes exclusively scalable techniques and focuses on strengths, respectively, limitations in respect to industrial applicability and regulatory requirements concerning liposomal drug formulations based on FDA and EMEA documents.
The rapid recognition of intravenously injected colloidal carriers, such as liposomes and polymeric nanospheres from the blood by Kupffer cells, has initiated a surge of development for "Kupffer cell-evading" or … The rapid recognition of intravenously injected colloidal carriers, such as liposomes and polymeric nanospheres from the blood by Kupffer cells, has initiated a surge of development for "Kupffer cell-evading" or long-circulating particles. Such carriers have applications in vascular drug delivery and release, site-specific targeting (passive as well as active targeting), as well as transfusion medicine. In this article we have critically reviewed and assessed the rational approaches in the design as well as the biological performance of such constructs. For engineering and design of long-circulating carriers, we have taken a lead from nature. Here, we have explored the surface mechanisms, which affords red blood cells long-circulatory lives and the ability of specific microorganisms to evade macrophage recognition. Our analysis is then centered where such strategies have been translated and fabricated to design a wide range of particulate carriers (e.g., nanospheres, liposomes, micelles, oil-in-water emulsions) with prolonged circulation and/or target specificity. With regard to the targeting issues, attention is particularly focused on the importance of physiological barriers and disease states.
Abstract Cancer nanotherapeutics are rapidly progressing and are being implemented to solve several limitations of conventional drug delivery systems such as nonspecific biodistribution and targeting, lack of water solubility, poor … Abstract Cancer nanotherapeutics are rapidly progressing and are being implemented to solve several limitations of conventional drug delivery systems such as nonspecific biodistribution and targeting, lack of water solubility, poor oral bioavailability, and low therapeutic indices. To improve the biodistribution of cancer drugs, nanoparticles have been designed for optimal size and surface characteristics to increase their circulation time in the bloodstream. They are also able to carry their loaded active drugs to cancer cells by selectively using the unique pathophysiology of tumors, such as their enhanced permeability and retention effect and the tumor microenvironment. In addition to this passive targeting mechanism, active targeting strategies using ligands or antibodies directed against selected tumor targets amplify the specificity of these therapeutic nanoparticles. Drug resistance, another obstacle that impedes the efficacy of both molecularly targeted and conventional chemotherapeutic agents, might also be overcome, or at least reduced, using nanoparticles. Nanoparticles have the ability to accumulate in cells without being recognized by P-glycoprotein, one of the main mediators of multidrug resistance, resulting in the increased intracellular concentration of drugs. Multifunctional and multiplex nanoparticles are now being actively investigated and are on the horizon as the next generation of nanoparticles, facilitating personalized and tailored cancer treatment.
Applications of nanotechnology for treatment, diagnosis, monitoring, and control of biological systems has recently been referred to as "nanomedicine" by the National Institutes of Health. Research into the rational delivery … Applications of nanotechnology for treatment, diagnosis, monitoring, and control of biological systems has recently been referred to as "nanomedicine" by the National Institutes of Health. Research into the rational delivery and targeting of pharmaceutical, therapeutic, and diagnostic agents is at the forefront of projects in nanomedicine. These involve the identification of precise targets (cells and receptors) related to specific clinical conditions and choice of the appropriate nanocarriers to achieve the required responses while minimizing the side effects. Mononuclear phagocytes, dendritic cells, endothelial cells, and cancers (tumor cells, as well as tumor neovasculature) are key targets. Today, nanotechnology and nanoscience approaches to particle design and formulation are beginning to expand the market for many drugs and are forming the basis for a highly profitable niche within the industry, but some predicted benefits are hyped. This article will highlight rational approaches in design and surface engineering of nanoscale vehicles and entities for site-specific drug delivery and medical imaging after parenteral administration. Potential pitfalls or side effects associated with nanoparticles are also discussed.
ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVReviewADDITION / CORRECTIONThis article has been corrected. View the notice.Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Stabilization, Vectorization, Physicochemical Characterizations, and Biological ApplicationsSophie Laurent†, Delphine Forge†, Marc Port—, Alain … ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVReviewADDITION / CORRECTIONThis article has been corrected. View the notice.Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Stabilization, Vectorization, Physicochemical Characterizations, and Biological ApplicationsSophie Laurent†, Delphine Forge†, Marc Port—, Alain Roch†, Caroline Robic—, Luce Vander Elst†, and Robert N. Muller*†View Author Information Department of General, Organic, and Biomedical Chemistry, NMR and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, University of Mons-Hainaut, B-7000 Mons, Belgium, and Guerbet, Centre de Recherche, BP 57400, 95943 Roissy CdG Cedex, France* To whom correspondence should be addressed: Department of General, Organic, and Biomedical Chemistry, NMR and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, University of Mons-Hainaut, B-7000 Mons, Belgium. Telephone/Fax: +32-65-373520. E-mail: [email protected]†University of Mons-Hainaut.—Guerbet.Cite this: Chem. Rev. 2008, 108, 6, 2064–2110Publication Date (Web):June 11, 2008Publication History Received13 June 2007Published online11 June 2008Published inissue 1 June 2008https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/cr068445ehttps://doi.org/10.1021/cr068445ereview-articleACS PublicationsCopyright Ā© 2008 American Chemical SocietyRequest reuse permissionsArticle Views91221Altmetric-Citations5467LEARN ABOUT THESE METRICSArticle Views are the COUNTER-compliant sum of full text article downloads since November 2008 (both PDF and HTML) across all institutions and individuals. These metrics are regularly updated to reflect usage leading up to the last few days.Citations are the number of other articles citing this article, calculated by Crossref and updated daily. Find more information about Crossref citation counts.The Altmetric Attention Score is a quantitative measure of the attention that a research article has received online. Clicking on the donut icon will load a page at altmetric.com with additional details about the score and the social media presence for the given article. Find more information on the Altmetric Attention Score and how the score is calculated. Share Add toView InAdd Full Text with ReferenceAdd Description ExportRISCitationCitation and abstractCitation and referencesMore Options Share onFacebookTwitterWechatLinked InRedditEmail Other access optionsGet e-Alertsclose SUBJECTS:Magnetic properties,Metal oxide nanoparticles,Nanoparticles,Oxides,Peptides and proteins Get e-Alerts
In medicine, nanotechnology has sparked a rapidly growing interest as it promises to solve a number of issues associated with conventional therapeutic agents, including their poor water solubility (at least, … In medicine, nanotechnology has sparked a rapidly growing interest as it promises to solve a number of issues associated with conventional therapeutic agents, including their poor water solubility (at least, for most anticancer drugs), lack of targeting capability, nonspecific distribution, systemic toxicity, and low therapeutic index. Over the past several decades, remarkable progress has been made in the development and application of engineered nanoparticles to treat cancer more effectively. For example, therapeutic agents have been integrated with nanoparticles engineered with optimal sizes, shapes, and surface properties to increase their solubility, prolong their circulation half-life, improve their biodistribution, and reduce their immunogenicity. Nanoparticles and their payloads have also been favorably delivered into tumors by taking advantage of the pathophysiological conditions, such as the enhanced permeability and retention effect, and the spatial variations in the pH value. Additionally, targeting ligands (e.g., small organic molecules, peptides, antibodies, and nucleic acids) have been added to the surface of nanoparticles to specifically target cancerous cells through selective binding to the receptors overexpressed on their surface. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that multiple types of therapeutic drugs and/or diagnostic agents (e.g., contrast agents) could be delivered through the same carrier to enable combination therapy with a potential to overcome multidrug resistance, and real-time readout on the treatment efficacy. It is anticipated that precisely engineered nanoparticles will emerge as the next-generation platform for cancer therapy and many other biomedical applications.
Efforts to extend nanoparticle residence time in vivo have inspired many strategies in particle surface modifications to bypass macrophage uptake and systemic clearance. Here we report a top-down biomimetic approach … Efforts to extend nanoparticle residence time in vivo have inspired many strategies in particle surface modifications to bypass macrophage uptake and systemic clearance. Here we report a top-down biomimetic approach in particle functionalization by coating biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles with natural erythrocyte membranes, including both membrane lipids and associated membrane proteins for long-circulating cargo delivery. The structure, size and surface zeta potential, and protein contents of the erythrocyte membrane-coated nanoparticles were verified using transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and gel electrophoresis, respectively. Mice injections with fluorophore-loaded nanoparticles revealed superior circulation half-life by the erythrocyte-mimicking nanoparticles as compared to control particles coated with the state-of-the-art synthetic stealth materials. Biodistribution study revealed significant particle retention in the blood 72 h following the particle injection. The translocation of natural cellular membranes, their associated proteins, and the corresponding functionalities to the surface of synthetic particles represents a unique approach in nanoparticle functionalization.
Nanoparticles possess enormous potential as diagnostic imaging agents and hold promise for the development of multimodality agents with both imaging and therapeutic capabilities. Yet, some of the most promising nanoparticles … Nanoparticles possess enormous potential as diagnostic imaging agents and hold promise for the development of multimodality agents with both imaging and therapeutic capabilities. Yet, some of the most promising nanoparticles demonstrate prolonged tissue retention and contain heavy metals. This presents serious concerns for toxicity. The creation of nanoparticles with optimal clearance characteristics will minimize toxicity risks by reducing the duration of exposure to these agents. Given that many nanoparticles possess easily modifiable surface and interior chemistry, if nanoparticle characteristics associated with optimal clearance from the body were well established, it would be feasible to design and create agents with more favorable clearance properties. This article presents a thorough discussion of the physiologic aspects of nanoparticle clearance, focusing on renal mechanisms, and provides an overview of current research investigating clearance of specific types of nanoparticles and nano-sized macromolecules, including dendrimers, quantum dots, liposomes and carbon, gold and silica-based nanoparticles.
Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is the most used polymer and also the gold standard for stealth polymers in the emerging field of polymer-based drug delivery. The properties that account for the … Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is the most used polymer and also the gold standard for stealth polymers in the emerging field of polymer-based drug delivery. The properties that account for the overwhelming use of PEG in biomedical applications are outlined in this Review. The first approved PEGylated products have already been on the market for 20 years. A vast amount of clinical experience has since been gained with this polymer--not only benefits, but possible side effects and complications have also been found. The areas that might need consideration and more intensive and careful examination can be divided into the following categories: hypersensitivity, unexpected changes in pharmacokinetic behavior, toxic side products, and an antagonism arising from the easy degradation of the polymer under mechanical stress as a result of its ether structure and its non-biodegradability, as well as the resulting possible accumulation in the body. These possible side effects will be discussed in this Review and alternative polymers will be evaluated.
The application of liposomes to assist drug delivery has already had a major impact on many biomedical areas. They have been shown to be beneficial for stabilizing therapeutic compounds, overcoming … The application of liposomes to assist drug delivery has already had a major impact on many biomedical areas. They have been shown to be beneficial for stabilizing therapeutic compounds, overcoming obstacles to cellular and tissue uptake, and improving biodistribution of compounds to target sites in vivo. This enables effective delivery of encapsulated compounds to target sites while minimizing systemic toxicity. Liposomes present as an attractive delivery system due to their flexible physicochemical and biophysical properties, which allow easy manipulation to address different delivery considerations. Despite considerable research in the last 50 years and the plethora of positive results in preclinical studies, the clinical translation of liposome assisted drug delivery platforms has progressed incrementally. In this review, we will discuss the advances in liposome assisted drug delivery, biological challenges that still remain, and current clinical and experimental use of liposomes for biomedical applications. The translational obstacles of liposomal technology will also be presented.
The platinum drugs, cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin, prevail in the treatment of cancer, but new platinum agents have been very slow to enter the clinic. Recently, however, there has been … The platinum drugs, cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin, prevail in the treatment of cancer, but new platinum agents have been very slow to enter the clinic. Recently, however, there has been a surge of activity, based on a great deal of mechanistic information, aimed at developing nonclassical platinum complexes that operate via mechanisms of action distinct from those of the approved drugs. The use of nanodelivery devices has also grown, and many different strategies have been explored to incorporate platinum warheads into nanomedicine constructs. In this Review, we discuss these efforts to create the next generation of platinum anticancer drugs. The introduction provides the reader with a brief overview of the use, development, and mechanism of action of the approved platinum drugs to provide the context in which more recent research has flourished. We then describe approaches that explore nonclassical platinum(II) complexes with trans geometry or with a monofunctional coordination mode, polynuclear platinum(II) compounds, platinum(IV) prodrugs, dual-threat agents, and photoactivatable platinum(IV) complexes. Nanoparticles designed to deliver platinum(IV) complexes will also be discussed, including carbon nanotubes, carbon nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, quantum dots, upconversion nanoparticles, and polymeric micelles. Additional nanoformulations, including supramolecular self-assembled structures, proteins, peptides, metal-organic frameworks, and coordination polymers, will then be described. Finally, the significant clinical progress made by nanoparticle formulations of platinum(II) agents will be reviewed. We anticipate that such a synthesis of disparate research efforts will not only help to generate new drug development ideas and strategies, but also will reflect our optimism that the next generation of approved platinum cancer drugs is about to arrive.
Nanomedicine and nano delivery systems are a relatively new but rapidly developing science where materials in the nanoscale range are employed to serve as means of diagnostic tools or to … Nanomedicine and nano delivery systems are a relatively new but rapidly developing science where materials in the nanoscale range are employed to serve as means of diagnostic tools or to deliver therapeutic agents to specific targeted sites in a controlled manner. Nanotechnology offers multiple benefits in treating chronic human diseases by site-specific, and target-oriented delivery of precise medicines. Recently, there are a number of outstanding applications of the nanomedicine (chemotherapeutic agents, biological agents, immunotherapeutic agents etc.) in the treatment of various diseases. The current review, presents an updated summary of recent advances in the field of nanomedicines and nano based drug delivery systems through comprehensive scrutiny of the discovery and application of nanomaterials in improving both the efficacy of novel and old drugs (e.g., natural products) and selective diagnosis through disease marker molecules. The opportunities and challenges of nanomedicines in drug delivery from synthetic/natural sources to their clinical applications are also discussed. In addition, we have included information regarding the trends and perspectives in nanomedicine area.
CM Bindu , T. Farmaan , Aparna Kuna +2 more | Jordan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Nano-analytical techniques play a pivotal role in advancing pharmaceutical analysis by providing detailed insights into drug formulations, quality control processes, nanoparticle characterization, impurity detection, and emerging trends in the field. … Nano-analytical techniques play a pivotal role in advancing pharmaceutical analysis by providing detailed insights into drug formulations, quality control processes, nanoparticle characterization, impurity detection, and emerging trends in the field. This abstract highlights the significance of nano-analytical tools in optimizing drug delivery systems, ensuring product quality and safety, characterizing nanoparticles, and detecting trace impurities. Key points include the importance of these techniques in enhancing drug stability, enabling targeted drug delivery, and facilitating personalized medicine. Furthermore, the abstract emphasizes the evolving landscape of nano-analytical methods, such as multimodal imaging and quantum-based sensors, and their potential for breakthroughs in real-time drug monitoring and precision medicine. The abstract calls for continued research and development efforts to advance instrumentation, explore novel applications, address technical challenges, foster collaboration, and enhance education and training programs in pharmaceutical analysis. Overall, nano-analytical techniques hold promise for revolutionizing drug development, improving healthcare outcomes, and paving the way for personalized therapies tailored to individual patient needs.
Modern oncological and chronic inflammatory diseases require new approaches to drug therapy due to the limited effectiveness and several side effects of traditional drug preparations [...] Modern oncological and chronic inflammatory diseases require new approaches to drug therapy due to the limited effectiveness and several side effects of traditional drug preparations [...]
Abstract Anti‐polyethylene glycol (PEG) antibodies exist in many individuals and may lead to accelerated blood clearance (ABC) of PEGylated liposomes. However, the prevalence of the ABC phenomenon in individuals has … Abstract Anti‐polyethylene glycol (PEG) antibodies exist in many individuals and may lead to accelerated blood clearance (ABC) of PEGylated liposomes. However, the prevalence of the ABC phenomenon in individuals has remained unclear due to the absence of an effective prediction method. In this study, a drug‐release reporter liposome is developed by encapsulating rapidly activated 7‐ethyl‐10‐hydroxycamptothecin (SN38)‐glutathione (GSH) within the liposomes, enabling to accurately assess drug release in plasma based on the SN38/(SN38+SN38‐GSH) ratio. Utilizing this liposome, it is found that plasma‐induced accelerated drug release (ADR) is strongly correlated with the ABC phenomenon of PEGylated liposomes in rats. Importantly, ADR proved to be a more accurate predictor of the ABC phenomenon than the presence of anti‐PEG antibodies. ADR analysis of 1764 human samples indicated that only a low incidence (0.28%) of individuals undergoes the ABC phenomenon at a clinically relevant dose of commercial PEGylated liposomes of doxorubicin (DOXIL). A relatively high ratio (5%) of individuals may encounter the ABC phenomenon at a low dose (ā‰ˆ1/10 of the DOXIL dose). In summary, ADR is proposed as a new parameter to predict the ABC phenomenon of PEGylated liposomes and conclude that the pre‐existing anti‐PEG antibodies are unlikely to predict reliably the ABC phenomenon of DOXIL in humans.
ABSTRACT This research work reports on the synthesis, characterization, cellular interaction, and anti‐microbial properties of a supramolecular macrocyclic amphiphile (SMA) using cefixime as a model hydrophobic drug. The macrocycle was … ABSTRACT This research work reports on the synthesis, characterization, cellular interaction, and anti‐microbial properties of a supramolecular macrocyclic amphiphile (SMA) using cefixime as a model hydrophobic drug. The macrocycle was synthesized via the cyclization reaction of alkylated vanillin and resorcinol. The SMA was characterized employing spectroscopic techniques, including ESI‐MS, FT‐IR, and 1 H‐NMR spectroscopy. Using a Zetasizer, the mean diameter, average size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential of cefixime‐loaded and unloaded vesicles of SMA were measured. The morphology of drug‐loaded vehicles was examined using atomic force microscopy (AFM). NIH/3T3 cell lines were used to investigate cellular compatibility, and fresh blood was used to measure blood hemolysis. The experimental results revealed that at the highest concentration (1000 μg/mL), the hemolysis rate of synthesized SMA was 19.12% ± 1.88%, compared with 28.25% ± 1.89% hemolysis for the standard Tween 80. Similarly, SMA at a concentration of 1000 μg/mL demonstrated 66.89% ± 1.18% cell viability with 3T3 cells, whereas Tween 80 showed 56.31% ± 1.22% cell viability after 24 h. The antimicrobial activity of loaded SMA against Escherichia coli demonstrated greater antimicrobial potential than the cefixime formulation alone.
Luz M. López-Marı́n , JosĆ© Juan Escobar‐ChĆ”vez , Yareli Rojas-Aguirre | Mundo Nano Revista Interdisciplinaria en Nanociencia y NanotecnologĆ­a
El advenimiento de la nanomedicina representa una nueva frontera en las ciencias de la salud. La capacidad de la nanomedicina para mejorar la selectividad, eficacia y perfil de seguridad de … El advenimiento de la nanomedicina representa una nueva frontera en las ciencias de la salud. La capacidad de la nanomedicina para mejorar la selectividad, eficacia y perfil de seguridad de las terapias convencionales ofrece esperanzas de abordar necesidades mĆ©dicas insatisfechas en diferentes padecimientos. Hoy disponemos de un cĆŗmulo de conocimientos y experiencia mucho mayor que hace 20 aƱos, lo cual aumenta la probabilidad de Ć©xito de las nanoterapias de nueva generación. Se espera entonces que la nanomedicina se consolide como una herramienta generadora de estrategias terapĆ©uticas superiores en un gran espectro de padecimientos, asĆ­ como la acogida de nuevas tecnologĆ­as en la mejora de la salud de la población.
Agnieszka Ewa Wiącek | International Journal of Molecular Sciences
The field of colloid systems is still a developing scientific area, but a very promising one for many practical applications [...] The field of colloid systems is still a developing scientific area, but a very promising one for many practical applications [...]
Abstract Cell‐derived vehicles have shown promise in drug delivery for cancer therapy, but they are hindered by lack of effective methods to release drug from cellular vehicles. To overcome this … Abstract Cell‐derived vehicles have shown promise in drug delivery for cancer therapy, but they are hindered by lack of effective methods to release drug from cellular vehicles. To overcome this dilemma, this work develops nanodrug‐hitchhiking macrophages (OGNLN@MACs) that can unload drugs under ultrasound irradiation. The OGNLN is perfluoropentane‐loaded liposomal nanodroplet which consists of lipophilic prodrugs of elaidate‐conjugated gemcitabine and NLG919. OGNLN is internalized into macrophages to form OGNLN@MACs. OGNLN@MACs maintain the ability of tumor‐tropic migration as macrophages, and infiltrate solid tumors after intravenous injection. Subsequent local ultrasound irradiation induces liquid‐gas phase transition of perfluoropentane and ultrasonic cavitation, which causes OGNLN@MACs to rupture and release nanodrugs at tumor sites. The nanodrugs penetrate tumor parenchyma and exhibit potent antitumor activity via chemo‐immunotherapy. This study presents a promising strategy for efficient cancer therapy by utilizing ultrasound‐regulated nanodrug‐hitchhiking macrophages.
Jijendra Babu Devarapalli | World Journal of Current Medical and Pharmaceutical Research
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) has been a great obstacle for brain drug delivery. The BBB in healthy brain is a dispersal barrier essential for protecting normal brain function by impeding … The blood-brain barrier (BBB) has been a great obstacle for brain drug delivery. The BBB in healthy brain is a dispersal barrier essential for protecting normal brain function by impeding most compounds from transiting from the blood to the brain; only small molecules can cross the BBB. Under firm pathological conditions of diseases such as stroke, diabetes, seizures, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer disease. There are three types of barrier present in central nervous system such as Blood Brain Barrier, Blood Cerebra-Spinal Fluid Barrier, and Blood– Arachnoid Barrier. Alzheimer disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, psychiatric disorders or neurodegenerative diseases, different types of drugs are available. But they have some lacuna for transportation of drug though these barriers and reaching drug to the target site. As an importance, several strategies are currently being sought after to enhance the delivery of drugs across the BBB.
Objective: This study investigates the impact of lipid nanoparticles on enhancing the efficacy and reducing the toxicity of doxorubicin in cancer treatment. Methods: A high-pressure emulsification method prepared doxorubicin-loaded lipid … Objective: This study investigates the impact of lipid nanoparticles on enhancing the efficacy and reducing the toxicity of doxorubicin in cancer treatment. Methods: A high-pressure emulsification method prepared doxorubicin-loaded lipid nanoparticles (DOX-LNPs). Physicochemical properties were characterized, including particle size, zeta potential, and drug encapsulation efficiency. The cytotoxic effects of DOX-LNPs were evaluated using the MTT assay on MCF-7 breast cancer cells, while cellular uptake was assessed via fluorescence microscopy. In vivo, antitumor efficacy and systemic toxicity were analyzed in a murine cancer model. Results: The synthesized nanoparticles had an average size of 148 nm and an encapsulation efficiency of 91.3%. In vitro, DOX-LNPs exhibited 1.8-fold higher cytotoxicity (lower ICā‚…ā‚€) and 2.3-fold increased cellular uptake compared to free doxorubicin. In vivo, DOX-LNPs achieved 78.5% tumor growth inhibition, outperforming free doxorubicin (56.8%). Furthermore, systemic toxicity, including cardiotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, was significantly reduced in the DOX-LNP group compared to free doxorubicin. Conclusion: Lipid nanoparticles improve the therapeutic index of doxorubicin by enhancing its bioavailability and reducing off-target toxicity. These findings highlight their potential as an advanced drug delivery system, warranting further preclinical and clinical investigations.
| Nature India
The potential of nanoparticles (NPs) as a drug delivery mechanism (DDM) has prompted extensive study and use of nanotechnology in tumor cell (TC) treatment. Compared to conventional medications, NP-based DDM … The potential of nanoparticles (NPs) as a drug delivery mechanism (DDM) has prompted extensive study and use of nanotechnology in tumor cell (TC) treatment. Compared to conventional medications, NP-based DDM offers greater stability and biocompatibility, enhanced absorption and preservation, and focused accuracy, which are some of its unique advantages. This drug-carrying technology has reached a new level with the use and improvement of composite nanoparticles (NPs), which combine the unique characteristics of multiple NPs. Additionally, NP-based DDMs have demonstrated effectiveness in overcoming cancer-related drug resistance (DR). Improving medical translation must address limited dose capacity, stability limitations, and potential harmful effects. Researchers are exploring ways to enhance DDM, including the development of novel drug-encapsulating techniques and modifications to NP surfaces. Potentially huge gains in treatment efficacy may result from optimizing medication integration in such systems. One obstacle to medical translation is stability issues. Applying protective covers and improving formulations are two methods that researchers are exploring to extend the lifespan of NPs. Additionally, before progressing with clinical trials, efforts are being made to minimize the likelihood of negative side effects by carefully selecting compounds that are biologically compatible for NP synthesis and conducting comprehensive toxicity evaluations. Following that, we continue with the innovation of nanoparticle design and functionalization; these types of delivery systems are poised to play a key role in various areas of next-generation tumour therapies. Which provides various offers through robust pathways to overcoming drug resistance, accelerating clinical translation.
Abstract In recent years, nanomedicine has emerged as a promising approach to deliver therapeutic agents directly to tumors. However, despite its potential, cancer nanomedicine encounters significant challenges. The synthesis of … Abstract In recent years, nanomedicine has emerged as a promising approach to deliver therapeutic agents directly to tumors. However, despite its potential, cancer nanomedicine encounters significant challenges. The synthesis of nanomedicines involves numerous parameters, and the complexity of nano–bio interactions in vivo presents further difficulties. Therefore, innovative approaches are needed to optimize nanoparticle (NP) design and functionality, enhancing their delivery efficiency and therapeutic outcomes. Recent advancements in Machine Learning (ML) and computational methods have shown great promise for precision cancer drug delivery. This review summarizes the potential use of ML across all stages of NP drug delivery systems, along with a discussion of ongoing challenges and future directions. The authors first examine the synthesis and formulation of NPs, highlighting how ML can accelerate the process by searching for optimal synthesis parameters. Next, they delve into nano–bio interactions in drug delivery, including NP–protein interactions, blood circulation, NP extravasation into the tumor microenvironment (TME), tumor penetration and distribution, as well as cellular internalization. Through this comprehensive overview, the authors aim to highlight the transformative potential of ML in overcoming current challenges, assisting nanoscientists in the rational design of NPs, and advancing precision cancer nanomedicine.
Poly(esters), especially poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), are currently the materials of choice for clinical sustained-drug-release formulations based on polymer nanoparticles, due to the long history of safe clinical use of these … Poly(esters), especially poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), are currently the materials of choice for clinical sustained-drug-release formulations based on polymer nanoparticles, due to the long history of safe clinical use of these polymers. The existing poly(ester) nanoparticles suffer from limitations in low colloidal stability or/and low drug loading. Here, we present a poly(ester)-based nanoparticle with ultrahigh colloidal stability (>210 days) and ultrahigh drug loading (∼40% for doxorubicin, or DOX). This drug delivery nanoparticle is formed by spontaneous coassembly between a protein (BSA as a model here) and a hydrophobic polymer (PLGA as a model here), yielding a protein-polymer coassembly supraparticle (PPCAS). We further investigate two different methods to load DOX into PPCAS, namely, coassembly (with hydrophobic interaction as the primary driving force) and solvent diffusion (with concentration gradient as the primary driving force). We find that combining the two loading methods can yield higher drug loading than using one method alone, supporting the complementary nature of the two loading methods. We show the sustained drug release behavior of PPCAS and explore its application in anticancer therapy. Finally, in preliminary studies of scale-up production, we demonstrate that the production of PPCAS and drug-loaded PPCAS can be scaled up without significant loss of product quality.
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the top causes of cancer-induced mortality, frequently diagnosed too late to be treated effectively, due to the poor prognosis and the limited successful therapeutic … Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the top causes of cancer-induced mortality, frequently diagnosed too late to be treated effectively, due to the poor prognosis and the limited successful therapeutic options. Apart from the conventional treatments, new multimodal therapies have emerged utilizing different scientific fields for the improvement of the survival and quality of patients' lives. The advancement of nanotechnology leads the way to more personalized medicine and the use of targeted theranostics carriers for deep-seated cancers such as PDAC. New nanotechnology innovations such as specialized photo-sensitizing drug nanocarriers, can effectively improve photodynamic therapy (PDT) of PDAC and enhance phototherapy's action through surface plasmon resonance phenomenon, as another recently re-emerged non- or minimally invasive possible treatment of such diseases. Despite the scientific advancements, significant hurdles remain and many parameters need to be examined. However, the novel application of nano-biophotonic techniques and the convergence of different science fields offer promise for the treatment of difficult-to-treat diseases, like PDAC.
Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive primary brain tumor with limited therapeutic options, particularly due to the limited blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, such as liposomes, … Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive primary brain tumor with limited therapeutic options, particularly due to the limited blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, such as liposomes, can prolong drugs' circulation time and enhance their accumulation within brain tumors, thereby improving therapeutic outcomes. Controlled drug release further contributes to high local drug concentrations while minimizing systemic toxicity. Oleic acid (OA), a monounsaturated fatty acid, is commonly used to enhance drug loading and increase lipid membrane fluidity. In this study, we developed liposomal formulations with optimized temozolomide (TMZ)'s loading and analyze its response to focused ultrasound (FUS). Methods: We synthetized OA-based liposomes with different lipid composition, performed physicochemical characterization (DLS, TEM) and analyzed the TMZ loading efficiency. Different FUS parameters were tested for effective OA-based liposomes destruction. Safety of selected parameters was evaluated in vivo by MRI, histological staining and RT-PCR of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Results: All the formulations exhibited comparable hydrodynamic diameters; however, OA-containing liposomes demonstrated a significantly higher TMZ encapsulation efficiency and enhanced cytotoxicity in U87 glioma cells. Moreover, it was shown that OA-liposomes were disrupted at lower acoustic pressures (5 MPa), while conventional liposomes required higher thresholds (>8 MPa). A safety analysis of FUS parameters indicated that pressures exceeding 11 MPa induced brain edema, necrotic lesions and elevated cytokine levels within 72 h post-treatment. Conclusions: These results suggest that OA-based liposomes possess favorable characteristics, with an increased sonosensitivity for the site-specific delivery of TMZ, offering a promising strategy for glioma treatment.
The low effectiveness of various brain cancer treatment methods is due to a number of significant challenges. Most of them are unable to penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB) when drugs … The low effectiveness of various brain cancer treatment methods is due to a number of significant challenges. Most of them are unable to penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB) when drugs are administered systemically through the bloodstream. Nanoscale particles play a special role among materials capable of binding drug molecules and successfully crossing the BBB. Biopolymeric nanoparticles (NPs) demonstrate excellent biocompatibility and have the remarkable ability to modify the environment surrounding tumor cells, thereby potentially improving cellular uptake of delivery agents. In our research, nanoscale polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) ranging in size from 56 to 209 nm were synthesized by ionic interaction of the oppositely charged polysaccharides pectin and chitosan. The structural characteristics of these complexes were carefully characterized by infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. The immobilization efficiency of antitumor drugs was comprehensively evaluated using UV spectrophotometry. The cytotoxicity of the NPs was evaluated in the U87-MG cell line. The preliminary data indicate a significant decrease in the metabolic activity of these tumor cells. Important details on the interaction of the NPs with an endothelial layer structurally similar to the BBB were obtained by simulating the BBB using a model based on human blood vessels. Our studies allowed us to establish a significant correlation between the kinetic parameters of drug immobilization and the ratio of biopolymer concentrations in the initial compositions, which provides valuable information for future optimization of drug delivery system design.
Nanomedicine has emerged as a transformative field in medical diagnostics, particularly in cancer detection. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) and ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (USPIONs) have garnered significant attention … Nanomedicine has emerged as a transformative field in medical diagnostics, particularly in cancer detection. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) and ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (USPIONs) have garnered significant attention due to their remarkable properties, making them suitable for use in molecular imaging. These nanoparticles can serve as effective contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and can also be radiolabeled with various radioisotopes for use in nuclear medicine modalities such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Recent advancements in multimodal imaging systems, such as PET/MRI and SPECT/MRI, have demonstrated the potential of these nanoparticles to combine the strengths of different imaging techniques, allowing for more accurate cancer detection at early stages. MRI provides high spatial and temporal resolution but lacks sensitivity, while PET and SPECT offer high sensitivity with lower resolution. The integration of these modalities allows for enhanced imaging of cancerous tissues. This review discusses the application of radiolabeled SPIONs and USPIONs in dual-modality imaging systems, highlighting their advantages and limitations as contrast agents. The continued development of targeted nanoprobes and the exploration of new multimodal imaging systems offer promising avenues for improving early cancer diagnosis and treatment.
The field of nanomedicine is currently in a revolutionary phase, propelled by the significant potential of nanoparticles, which offer several advantages over traditional drug delivery systems. The purpose of this … The field of nanomedicine is currently in a revolutionary phase, propelled by the significant potential of nanoparticles, which offer several advantages over traditional drug delivery systems. The purpose of this paper is to aggregate contemporary knowledge of nanoparticles developed and applied in drug delivery across major disease classes. Accordingly, we offer, through a thorough search of the literature, a comprehensive overview of the prevalent nanoparticles used in drug delivery systems, covering polymeric, lipid-based, inorganic, and carbon-based nanoparticles, and discuss their advantages and limitations. This work primarily focuses on studies published in the last 5 years, aiming to provide an up-to-date assessment of the critical nanoparticles in drug delivery. Narratively, we synthesize a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art in nanocarrier technology, providing in-depth insights into the key nanoparticle types presented in the contemporary literature, their fundamental benefits, potential clinical applications, and limitations impeding their development and adoption. We note that there are gaps and opportunities for concerted efforts focused on developing biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticles, establishing scalable and cost-effective manufacturing processes, and addressing regulatory challenges associated with nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems. These challenges persist despite the immense translational success of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems and necessitate continued interdisciplinary research and cross-industry collaboration among scientists, clinicians, and regulatory bodies.
This review provides an in-depth analysis of nanopharmaceuticals, focusing on their chemistry, nanostructures, and advanced drug delivery applications. Its significance lies in the detailed examination of the molecular design, synthesis … This review provides an in-depth analysis of nanopharmaceuticals, focusing on their chemistry, nanostructures, and advanced drug delivery applications. Its significance lies in the detailed examination of the molecular design, synthesis techniques, and functionalization strategies that enable nanopharmaceuticals to revolutionize drug delivery. By exploring the unique properties of various nanostructures, such as lipid-based nanocarriers, polymeric nanoparticles, and theranostic nanosystems, this review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the chemistry and technological advancements in nanopharmaceuticals, offering a foundational understanding for future research and development in this rapidly evolving field. It also addresses the challenges and future prospects of nanopharmaceuticals, emphasizing the need for innovation to overcome issues related to stability, scalability, and regulatory compliance. Overall, the review underscores the transformative potential of nanopharmaceuticals in drug delivery, providing insights into how these advanced systems can be optimized for more effective and personalized medicine. The findings suggest that while the future of nanopharmaceuticals is promising, ongoing research is likely to yield significant advancements in targeted and controlled drug delivery systems.
Abstract MR1 is a non-polymorphic, ubiquitously expressed, MHC class I-like antigen-presenting molecule that presents small-molecule metabolites to T cells. Studies have shown that MR1 plays a role in microbial infection, … Abstract MR1 is a non-polymorphic, ubiquitously expressed, MHC class I-like antigen-presenting molecule that presents small-molecule metabolites to T cells. Studies have shown that MR1 plays a role in microbial infection, inflammation, and tumor immunity. The antigens it presents include metabolites of microbial and self-origin as well as small-molecule drugs and form stable complexes with MR1 that are displayed on the cell surface to activate T cells. However, unlike classical MHC I and II molecules, the fundamental biology of MR1 remains poorly understood, particularly the mechanisms governing antigen loading and intracellular trafficking. This knowledge gap is largely due to the lack of molecular tools available to precisely manipulate MR1 function. In this study, we describe a high-affinity (1.6 nM K D ) anti-MR1 nanobody, MR1Nb1. We characterize the binding of this nanobody including affinity by ELISA and kinetics by BLI. Crucially, we map the binding epitope of MR1Nb1 on MR1 by HDX-MS, providing key insights into the mechanism through which it blocks MR1T cell activation. In functional assays MR1Nb1 effectively and specifically blocks MAIT cell activation by cells infected with M. tuberculosis or treated with M. smegmatis supernatant. This nanobody represents a unique and versatile tool for the field, as it can be produced inexpensively and expressed intracellularly within antigen-presenting cells. Hence, our study provides a powerful new molecular probe for dissecting the mechanistic underpinnings of MR1 biology and uncover its broader roles in immunity.
Natural bioactive compounds exhibit remarkable therapeutic potential, particularly in combating chronic inflammatory conditions and associated diseases like cancer. However, their clinical application is often constrained by poor aqueous solubility and … Natural bioactive compounds exhibit remarkable therapeutic potential, particularly in combating chronic inflammatory conditions and associated diseases like cancer. However, their clinical application is often constrained by poor aqueous solubility and limited bioavailability, primarily ascribed to their pronounced self-aggregation propensities driven by hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions. To address this challenge, the study introduces a bisimidazole pyridine-based metallo-tweezer (MRE) as a novel strategy to enhance the solubility of three naturally derived therapeutics─camptothecin, luteolin, and riboflavin. Through comprehensive MD simulations, complemented by quantum-level DFT calculations, the study unveils critical insights into the solubilizing mechanism of MRE. MRE disrupts drug assembly by effectively encapsulating the molecules capable of specifically coordinating to the Cu2+ center, combined with strong Ļ€-Ļ€ stacking interactions with its anisole arms. This complexation attenuates the intrinsic clustering tendencies of the drugs, facilitating solute-solvent interactions and promoting solvation. Additionally, the exquisite selectivity of MRE and its varying binding affinities toward different drugs highlights its potential as a selective sensor for natural bioactives, distinguishing it from conventional solubilizing agents. The study provides profound insights at the molecular level and establishes key design principles for the rational development of advanced solubilizing agents, significantly enhancing the clinical utility of natural therapeutics.