Biocompatible Nanocarriers Research Articles

Temperature and Ultrasound-Responsive Nanoassemblies for Enhanced Organ Targeting and Reduced Cardiac Toxicity.

Biocompatible nanocarriers are widely employed as drug-delivery vehicles for treatment. Nevertheless, indiscriminate drug release, insufficient organ-specific targeting, and systemic toxicity hamper nanocarrier effectiveness. Stimuli-responsive nano-sized drug delivery systems (DDS) are an important strategy for enhancing drug delivery efficiency and reducing unexpected drug release. This study introduces a temperature- and ultrasound-responsive nano-DDS in which the copolymer p-(MEO2MA-co-THPMA) is grafted onto mesoporous iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONs) to construct an MPL-p nano-DDS. The copolymer acts as a nanopore gatekeeper, assuming an open conformation at sub-physiological temperatures that allows drug encapsulation and a closed conformation at physiological temperatures that prevents unexpected drug release during circulation. Lactoferrin was conjugated to the nanoparticle surface via polyethylene glycol to gain organ-targeting ability. External ultrasonic irradiation of the nanoparticles in the targeted organs caused a conformational change of the copolymer and reopened the pores, facilitating controlled drug release. MPL-p exhibited excellent biocompatibility and rare drug release in circulation. When targeting delivery to the brain, ultrasound promoted the release of the loaded drugs in the brain without accumulation in other organs, avoiding the related adverse reactions, specifically those affecting the heart. This study established a novel temperature- and ultrasound-responsive DDS that reduced systemic adverse reactions compared with traditional DDS, especially in the heart, and demonstrated excellent organ delivery efficiency.

Multi-Stimuli-Responsive Biocompatible Magnetic Nanocarrier as Drug Delivery System to MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells.

The last strategy in targeted drug delivery systems is to deliver the anticancer drug to the tumor tissue to increase its therapeutic effect and minimize its undesirable side effects. In line with this goal in this research, the redox/pH-responsive disulfide magnetic nanocarriers based on PF127-NH2/L-cysteine-CM-β-CD-FA were synthesized and evaluated in a doxorubicin delivery system. We effectively surrounded Fe3O4 nanoparticles with SiO2 using the sol-gel method, and then confidently coated them with oleic acid on Fe3O4@SiO2 nanoparticles.. In another reaction, a PF127-NH2/L-cysteine-CM-β-CD-FA was synthesized. The process involved modifying pluronic F127 (PF 127) with maleic anhydride and aminating it to form PF127-NH2. The obtained PF127-NH2 was attached to L-cysteine, followed by condensing with carboxymethyl-β-cyclodextrin and then functionalized by folic acid. Finally, PF127-NH2/L-cysteine-CM-β-CD-FA was coated on the surface of magnetic nanoparticles, and the resulting PF127-NH2/L-cysteine-CM-β-CD-FA was disulfidated to form the final nanocarrier network, which was abbreviated as LCMNPs-SS. The doxorubicin was used as a model drug and loaded into the LCMNPs-SS nanocarrier. The LCMNPs-SS nanocarrier exhibited excellent properties for controlled release, with a well-defined release rate, a controllable level by an external magnet, and adjusting by DLdithiothreitol concentration. The LCMNPs-SS nanocarrier could also break apart when exposed to an oxidant or a change in pH. This meant that the drug release could be fine-tuned in response to temperature, pH, or more than one stimulus. These drug-carrying systems are valuable in reducing the dose of doxorubicin. High internalization of the synthesized LCMNPs-SS caused sped cellular uptake.

Towards the preparation of smart drug delivery platforms for colorectal cancer therapy: Biocompatible and targeted mesoporous silica nanoparticles with the deferiprone-copper complex gatekeeper

BackgroundAchieving smart drug release and preventing premature leakage throughout the delivery journey are two crucial factors that are essential to take into account in the design of nanocarriers. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) can be modified with gatekeeper molecules to achieve controlled release behavior, making them highly promising nanocarriers for smart drug delivery purposes. MethodsHerein, we introduced a novel gatekeeper in the form of an inverted umbrella, consisting of a deferiprone (DFP)-copper complex, which was strategically immobilized on the surface of MSNs to facilitate smart and controlled release of doxorubicin (DOX) within tumor cells. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymer and aptamer were further added onto the surface of the nanocarrier to enhance its biocompatibility, and targeting capabilities. The physicochemical characteristics of the targeted nanoplatform, Apt-PEG-DOX@GNP, were investigated, and its anti-cancer effect was evaluated against C26 cells and CHO cells to assess its specificity. In order to evaluate the anti-tumor efficacy, possible side effects, and biodistribution of the prepared nanocarriers, the in vivo experiment was carried out on BALB/c mice bearing colorectal tumors. ResultsThe substantial surface area of MSNs, measuring 339 m2/g, facilitated effective encapsulation of DOX with a maximum loading 23 % ± 2.05. Preparation of Apt-PEG-DOX@GNP yielded uniform particles with an average diameter of 144.73 ± 11.29 nm. The Apt-PEG-DOX@GNP demonstrated iron-dependent release behaviors, wherein the cleavage of DFP−COOH-Cu(II) bonds decorating the silica nanoparticles occurred asynchronously, leading to the formation of new DFP−COOH-Fe(II) bonds for the subsequent release of DOX. The in vivo experiments revealed that the biocompatible nanocarriers displayed targeted toxicity towards C26 tumor-bearing BALB/c mice, resulting in minimal side effects. ConclusionOur prepared novel nanoplatforms showed promising potential for targeted treatment of colorectal cancer and precise control over the drug release.

Novel biocompatible pH-fluorescence responsive MOF nanocarriers for lung cancer treatment

In this study, we synthesized two novel metal–organic frameworks [Cd(C4H4N2)(C12H19P3O9)]n (1) and {Ca[Cd(H2O)3]2(C24H15N6O6)2}n (2) distinguished by exceptional fluorescence properties. Focusing on 1, we innovatively combined it with hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) to create a pH-responsive, fluorescence-guided nanocarrier system (HPC-1@DOX) for targeted delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) in cancer treatment. We thoroughly evaluated the loading and release efficiency of DOX under varied pH conditions, demonstrating sustained and controlled drug release characteristics in vitro, along with substantial drug-loading capacity. Notably, HPC-1@DOX exhibited pH-responsive behavior, releasing DOX preferentially at pH 6.8, indicative of targeted delivery to tumor and inflammatory sites while minimizing release at higher pH values. Moreover, we explored its biological impact, confirming HPC-1@DOX’s ability to up-regulate miR-493-3p expression in lung carcinoma cells, thereby inhibiting proliferation, reducing invasiveness, and inducing apoptosis. This multifunctional nanocarrier system represents a significant advancement towards targeted and effective cancer therapy.

Milk Exosome-Glow Nanosystem for Cancer Cellular and Tissue Bioimaging.

Milk-derived exosomes are widely used for diagnosis, delivery, imaging, and theranostic applications. Near-Infrared (NIR) based fluorescence bioimaging is an attractive and safer technique that is used for clinical applications. However, almost all NIR imaging agents tend to have poor photostability, short half-life, nonspecific protein binding, and concentration-dependent aggregation(s). Therefore, there is an unmet clinical need to develop newer and safer modalities to package and deliver NIR imaging agents. Bovine milk exosomes are natural, biocompatible, safe, and efficient nanocarriers that facilitate the delivery of micro- and macromolecules. Herein, we developed an exosome-based NIR dye loaded nanoimaging formulation that offers improved solubility and photostability of NIR dye. Following the acetic acid based extracellular vesicle (EV) treatment method, we extracted the bovine milk exosomes from a variety of pasteurized grade milk. The EVs were screened for their physicochemical properties such as particle size and concentration and zeta potential. The stability of these exosomes was also determined under different conditions, including storage temperatures, pH, and salt concentrations. Next, indocyanine green, a model NIR dye was loaded into these exosomes (Exo-Glow) via a sonication method and further assessed for their improved fluorescence intensity and photostability using an IVIS imaging system. Initial screening suggested that size of the selected bovine milk exosomes was ∼100-135 nm with an average particle concentration of 5.8 × 102 particles/mL. Exo-Glow further demonstrated higher fluorescence intensity in cancer cells and tissues when compared to free dye. These results showed that Exo-Glow has the potential to serve as a safer NIR imaging tool for cancer cells/tissues.

Novel pesticides design: co-encapsulation of citral and cyproconazole for the control of Botrytis cinerea using biocompatible nano-carriers.

Growing concerns about sustainability have driven the search for eco-friendly pest management solutions. Combining natural and synthetic compounds within controlled release systems is a promising strategy. This study investigated the co-encapsulation of the natural compound citral (Cit) and the synthetic antifungal cyproconazole (CPZ) using two water-based nanocarriers: solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs). Both CSNPs and SLNs loaded with Cit + CPZ displayed superior antifungal activity against Botrytis cinerea compared to free compounds. Notably, CSNPs with a 2:1 Cit:CPZ ratio exhibited the highest efficacy, achieving a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC100) of < 1.56 μg mL-1, lower than the 12.5 μg mL-1 of non-encapsulated compounds. This formulation significantly reduced the required synthetic CPZ while maintaining efficacy, highlighting its potential for environmentally friendly pest control. The successful co-encapsulation of Cit + CPZ within CSNPs, particularly at a 2:1 ratio, demonstrates a promising approach for developing effective and sustainable antifungal formulations against B. cinerea. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Retraction Note: Gallium-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles as biocompatible and promising nanocarrier for delivery of anticancer drug Adrucil

Retraction Note: Gallium-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles as biocompatible and promising nanocarrier for delivery of anticancer drug Adrucil

Biocompatible Preparation of Beta-Lactoglobulin/Chondroitin Sulfate Carrier Nanoparticles and Modification of Their Colloidal and Hydropathic Properties by Tween 80.

The electrostatic complexation of the protein beta-lactoglobulin (β-LG) with the anionic polysaccharide chondroitin sulfate (CS) and the subsequent stabilization by thermal treatment were studied to achieve the well-defined nanoparticles (NPs). The formation of the well-defined NPs was obtained at pH 4 with a hydrodynamic radius from 60 to 80 nm. NP aggregation was observed at pH 1.5 because of the loss of the anionic charge of chondroitin sulfate on the surface of the NPs. After thermal treatment, the NPs exhibited stability against a pH increase to pH 7 while a stronger aggregation at pH 1.5 was observed. Core-shell structures were found at pH 7 after thermal treatment, indicating a possible mechanism of partial disintegration. The addition of Tween 80 (T80) before thermal treatment led to the formation of T80 self-assemblies inside the NPs. This caused an increase in the hydrophobicity of the inner and outer surfaces of the NPs as it was observed by fluorescence spectroscopy. The ζ-potential of the complexes and NPs was about -20 mV while the presence of T80 did not affect it. FTIR spectra verified changes of the secondary structure of β-LG in its complexes with CS and T80. The thermally treated NPs exhibited high surface and overall hydrophobicity and stability in high salinity and biocompatible solutions. The thermally treated NPs showed colloidal and physicochemical stability for 1 month, which were enhanced by the addition of T80. Due to the nature of the precursors and their colloidal properties, the NPs are highly promising for applications as biocompatible drug delivery nanocarriers while T80 acts as an agent to modify their properties.

Antimicrobial Delivery Using Metallophore-Responsive Dynamic Nanocarriers.

The increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens has promoted the development of innovative approaches, such as drug repurposing, synergy, and efficient delivery, in complement to traditional antibiotics. In this study, we present an approach based on biocompatible nanocarriers containing antimicrobial cations and known antibiotics. The matrices were prepared by coordinating GaIII or InIII to formulations of chitosan/tripolyphosphate or catechol-functionalized chitosan with or without encapsulated antibiotics, yielding particles of 100-200 nm in hydrodynamic diameter. MDR clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were found to be effectively inhibited by the nanocarriers under nutrient-limiting conditions. Fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) indices revealed that cation- and antibiotic-encapsulated nanomatrices were effective against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogens. Metallophores, such as deferoxamine (DFO), were probed to facilitate the sequestration and transport of the antimicrobial cations GaIII or InIII. Although the antimicrobial activities were less significant with DFO, the eradication of biofilm-associated bacteria showed promising trends against P. aeruginosa and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Interestingly, indium-containing compounds showed enhanced activity on biofilm formation and eradication, neutralizing P. aeruginosa under Fe-limiting conditions. In particular, InIII-cross-linked catechol-modified chitosan matrices were able to inhibit pathogenic growth together with DFO. The nanocarriers showed low cytotoxicity toward A549 cells and improvable CC50 values with NIH/3T3 cells.

Extracellular vesicle-packaged lncRNA from cancer-associated fibroblasts promotes immune evasion by downregulating HLA-A in pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterised by immune evasion that contribute to poor prognosis. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a pivotal role in orchestrating the PDAC tumour microenvironment. We investigated the role of CAF-derived extracellular vesicle (EV)-packaged long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in immune evasion and explored gene therapy using engineered EVs loading small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) as a potential therapeutic strategy. Our findings highlight the significance of EV-packaged lncRNA RP11-161H23.5 from CAF in promoting PDAC immune evasion by downregulating HLA-A expression, a key component of antigen presentation. Mechanistically, RP11-161H23.5 forms a complex with CNOT4, a subunit of the mRNA deadenylase CCR4-NOT complex, enhancing the degradation of HLA-A mRNA by shortening its poly(A) tail. This immune evasion mechanism compromises the anti-tumour immune response. To combat this, we propose an innovative approach utilising engineered EVs as natural and biocompatible nanocarriers for siRNA-based gene therapy and this strategy holds promise for enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy in PDAC. Overall, our study sheds light on the critical role of CAF-derived EV-packaged lncRNA RP11-161H23.5/CNOT4/HLA-A axis in PDAC immune evasion and presents a novel avenue for therapeutic intervention.

Facile preparation of a pH-sensitive biocompatible nanocarrier based on magnetic layered double hydroxides/Cu MOFs-chitosan crosslinked к-carrageenan for controlled doxorubicin delivery to breast cancer cells

Recently, the biocompatibility of hydrogel nanoparticles has gained considerable research attention in the field of drug delivery. In this regard, we design a pH-controlled nanocarrier based on magnetic layered double hydroxides/copper metal-organic framework-chitosan crosslinked к-carrageenan hydrogel nanoparticles (LDH-Fe3O4/Cu MOF-DOX-CS@CAR) for targeted release from DOX to breast cancer cells. FT-IR, EDX, XRD, FE-SEM, VSM, and Zeta potential investigated the chemical structure of hydrogel nanoparticles. The encapsulation efficiency and drug loading capacity of the DOX were obtained to be 96.1 % and 9.6 %, respectively. The cumulative release of DOX from LDH-Fe3O4/Cu MOF-DOX-CS@CAR at pH 5.5 and 7.4 after 72 h was 60.3 % and 22.6 %, respectively. These in vitro release results confirmed the controlled release and pH-response behavior of hydrogel nanoparticles. Also, the mechanism of DOX release from LDH-Fe3O4/Cu MOF-DOX-CS@CAR hydrogel nanoparticles showed that the Korsmeyer-Peppas model with Fickian diffusion is the best-fitting model for describing the release behavior of DOX from hydrogel nanoparticles. The cellular cytotoxicity and DAPI tests of the prepared LDH and LDH-Fe3O4/Cu MOF toward L929 non-cancerous cells and MCF-7 breast cancer cells confirm its relative biocompatibility and safety. Whereas, LDH-Fe3O4/Cu MOF-DOX-CS@CAR hydrogel nanoparticles toward MCF-7 breast cancer cells had higher cytotoxicity effects due to the targeted and controlled release of DOX to MCF-7 cells. The in vitro DPPH, hemolysis assay, colloidal stability, and enzymatic degradation proved the excellent antioxidant activity (71.81 %), blood compatibility (less than 5 %), better stability, and biodegradation behavior of hydrogel nanoparticles. On these findings, the present study suggests the potential of the prepared LDH-Fe3O4/Cu MOF-DOX-CS@CAR hydrogel nanoparticles as a pH-controlled drug delivery system for cancer treatment and various biomedical uses.

New Origins of Yeast, Plant and Bacterial-Derived Extracellular Vesicles to Expand and Advance Compound Delivery.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) constitute a sophisticated molecular exchange mechanism highly regarded for their potential as a next-generation platform for compound delivery. However, identifying sustainable and biologically safe sources of EVs remains a challenge. This work explores the emergence of novel sources of plant and bacterial-based EVs, such as those obtained from food industry by-products, known as BP-EVs, and their potential to be used as safer and biocompatible nanocarriers, addressing some of the current challenges of the field. These novel sources exhibit remarkable oral bioavailability and biodistribution, with minimal cytotoxicity and a selective targeting capacity toward the central nervous system, liver, and skeletal tissues. Additionally, we review the ease of editing these recently uncovered nanocarrier-oriented vesicles using common EV editing methods, examining the cargo-loading processes applicable to these sources, which involve both passive and active functionalization methods. While the primary focus of these novel sources of endogenous EVs is on molecule delivery to the central nervous system and skeletal tissue based on their systemic target preference, their use, as reviewed here, extends beyond these key applications within the biotechnological and biomedical fields.

Design of Polymeric Nanoparticles for Theranostic Delivery of Capsaicin as Anti-Cancer Drug and Fluorescent Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Quantum Dots.

In recent years, multifunctional nanocarriers that provide simultaneous drug delivery and imaging have attracted enormous attention, especially in cancer treatment. In this research, we designed a biocompatible fluorescent multifunctional nanocarrier for the co-delivery of capsaicin (CPS) and nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots (N-GQDs) using the pH sensitive amphiphilic block copolymer (poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline)-b-poly(ε-caprolactone), PEtOx-b-PCL). The effects of the critical formulation parameters (the amount of copolymer, the concentration of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) as a stabilizing agent in the inner aqueous phase, and volume of the inner phase) were evaluated to achieve optimal nanoparticle properties using Central Composite Design (CCD). The optimized nanoparticles demonstrated a desirable size distribution (167.8±1.4nm) with a negative surface charge (-19.9±0.4) and a suitable loading capacity for capsaicin (70.80±0.05%). The CPS & N-GQD NPs were found to have remarkable toxicity on human breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF-7). The solid fluorescent signal was acquired from cells containing multifunctional nanoparticles, according to the confocal microscope imaging results, confirming the significant cellular uptake. This research illustrates the enormous potential for cellular imaging and enhanced cancer therapy offered by multifunctional nanocarriers that combine drug substances with the novel fluorescent agents. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Development of red blood cell-derived extracellular particles as a biocompatible nanocarrier of microRNA-204 (REP-204) to harness anti-neuroblastoma effect

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid tumor in the pediatric population with a high degree of heterogeneity in clinical outcomes. Upregulation of the tumor suppressor miR-204 in neuroblastoma is associated with good prognosis. Although miR-204 has been recognized as a potential therapeutic candidate, its delivery is unavailable. We hypothesized that REP-204, the red blood cell-derived extracellular particles (REP) with miR-204 loading, can suppress neuroblastoma cells in vitro. After miR-204 loading by electroporation, REP-204, but not REP carriers, inhibited the viability, migration, and 3D spheroid growth of neuroblastoma cells regardless of MYCN amplification status. SWATH-proteomics revealed that REP-204 treatment may trigger a negative regulation of mRNA splicing by the spliceosome, suppression of amino acid metabolism and protein production, and prevent SLIT/ROBO signaling-mediated cell migration, to halt neuroblastoma tumor growth and metastasis. The therapeutic efficacy of REP-204 should be further investigated in preclinical models and clinical studies.

Electrochemical Characterization of the Encapsulation and Release of 5-Fluorouracil in Nanocarriers Formed from Soy Lecithin Vesicles.

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is an antineoplastic agent known for its low bioavailability and limited cellular penetration, often resulting in adverse effects on healthy cells. Thus, finding vehicles that enhance bioavailability, enable controlled release, and mitigate adverse effects is crucial. The study focuses on encapsulating 5-FU within soy lecithin vesicles (SLVs) and assessing its impact on the carrier's properties and functionality. Results show that incorporating 5-FU does not affect SLVs' size or polydispersity, even postlyophilization. Liberation of 5-FU from SLVs requires system disruption rather than spontaneous release, with an encapsulation efficiency of approximately 43% determined using Square Wave Voltammetry. Cytotoxicity assays on colorectal cancer cells reveal SLV-based delivery's significant efficacy, surpassing free drug solution effects with 45% cell viability after 72 h vs 73% viability. The research addresses 5-FU's limited bioavailability by creating a biocompatible nanocarrier for efficient drug delivery, highlighting SLVs as promising for targeted cancer therapy due to sustained antiproliferative effects and improved cellular uptake. The study underscores the importance of tailored drug delivery systems in enhancing therapeutic outcomes and suggests SLV/5-FU formulations as a potential advancement in cancer treatment strategies.

Hollow-structured covalent organic framework decorated with FA-PEG: A biocompatible nanocarrier for targeted and pH-responsive release of doxorubicin

Hollow nanostructures hold great promise for drug delivery applications due to their considerable capabilities for efficient drug encapsulation alongside distinct physicochemical attributes. Herein, an imine-linked hollow nanosphere covalent organic framework (COF) with high surface area and well-structured porosity was developed serving as a versatile drug delivery system (DDS) to achieve targeted and effective delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) as a chemotherapeutic agent. The production of COF hollow nanoparticles included the use of a heterogeneous nucleation and growth method, followed by the subsequent encapsulation of DOX. Following this, the nanoparticles underwent functionalization with folate-poly (ethylene glycol)-amine (FA-PEG) using a bonding defect strategy. An in vitro cytotoxicity assay and flow cytometry study against FR-negative HEK293 and FR-positive MCF7 cells were performed, revealing that FA-PEG-functionalized HCOF exhibited a unique targeting effect on cancer cells, surpassing the impact of DOX@HCOF on FR-positive MCF7 cancer cells. Additionally, the hollow architecture of the COF is engineered to undergo disintegration selectively under conditions of cancer cell pH, facilitating the comprehensive release of DOX. The pH-responsive and tumor-targeted attributes of the DOX@HCOF-PEG-FA open new avenues for incorporating structural engineered HCOFs as a promising drug carrier capable of regulating drug release and augmenting therapeutic efficacy.

Novel pH-responsive hybrid hydrogels for controlled delivery of curcumin: Overcoming conventional constraints and enhancing cytotoxicity in MCF-7 cells

Traditional drug delivery techniques often have drawbacks such inadequate bioavailability, quick clearance, and non-specific targeting, which may result in unfavorable side effects. Hybrid nanocarriers composed of nanoclay have the potential to be a viable solution to these problems. The goal of this work was to design a biocompatible hybrid nanocarrier that would release curcumin under regulated conditions to specific locations, especially cancer cells. FTIR, XRD, and FESEM were used to effectively construct and evaluate our polyvinyl pyrrolidone/polyethylene glycol/montmorillonite (PVP/PEG/MMT) hybrid hydrogels, verifying their synthesis and intended features. Zeta potential and DLS studies showed a suitable size distribution (∼300 nm) and high stability. The curcumin encapsulation efficiency and release profile were assessed using the use of UV spectrophotometry and the dialysis bag technique. The findings showed a gradual and continuous release that was highly impacted by the acidic environment (which mimicked the characteristics of cancer cells), suggesting pH-responsive activity. The MTT test was used in vitro cytotoxicity experiments to show that curcumin-loaded nanocarriers were more effective against MCF-7 cancer cells than curcumin in solution. Increased rates of necrosis and apoptosis in cancer cells treated with the nanocarrier formulation were further validated by flowcytometry. According to these results, PVP/PEG/MMT hybrid hydrogels have a lot of potential as a cutting-edge drug delivery strategy for curcumin. They may be able to overcome some of the drawbacks of traditional techniques and improve the effectiveness of treatment against cancer cells.

Cellulose Nanocrystals are a Renewable and Biocompatible Nanocarrier of Agrochemicals Directly to Plant Cells (Adv. Sustainable Syst. 5/2024)

Cellulose Nanocrystals are a Renewable and Biocompatible Nanocarrier of Agrochemicals Directly to Plant Cells (Adv. Sustainable Syst. 5/2024)

Antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of antibiotic-free phosphatidylglycerol/docosahexaenoic acid lamellar and non-lamellar liquid crystalline nanoparticles

Infectious diseases, particularly those associated with biofilms, are challenging to treat due to an increased tolerance to commonly used antibiotics. This underscores the urgent need for innovative antimicrobial strategies. Here, we present an alternative simple-by-design approach focusing on the development of biocompatible and antibiotic-free nanocarriers from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that has the potential to combat microbial infections and phosphatidylglycerol (DOPG), which is attractive for use as a biocompatible prominent amphiphilic component of Gram-positive bacterial cell membranes. We assessed the anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities of these nanoformulations (hexosomes and vesicles) against S. aureus and S. epidermidis, which are the most common causes of infections on catheters and medical devices by different methods (including resazurin assay, time-kill assay, and confocal laser scanning microscopy on an in vitro catheter biofilm model). In a DHA-concentration-dependent manner, these nano-self-assemblies demonstrated strong anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities, particularly against S. aureus. A five-fold reduction of the planktonic and a four-fold reduction of biofilm populations of S. aureus were observed after treatment with hexosomes. The nanoparticles had a bacteriostatic effect against S. epidermidis planktonic cells but no anti-biofilm activity was detected. We discuss the findings in terms of nanoparticle-bacterial cell interactions, plausible alterations in the phospholipid membrane composition, and potential penetration of DHA into these membranes, leading to changes in their structural and biophysical properties. The implications for the future development of biocompatible nanocarriers for the delivery of DHA alone or in combination with other anti-bacterial agents are discussed, as novel treatment strategies of Gram-positive infections, including biofilm-associated infections.

The Synthesis of Broccoli Sprout Extract-loaded Silk Fibroin Nanoparticles as Efficient Drug Delivery Vehicles: Development and Characterization

Targeted drug delivery of biological molecules using the development of biocompatible, non-toxic, and biodegradable nanocarriers can be a promising method for cancer therapy. In this study, silk fibroin protein nanoparticles (SFPNPs) were synthesized as a targeted delivery system for sulforaphane-rich broccoli sprout extract (BSE). The BSE-loaded SFPNPs were conjugated with polyethylene glycol and folic acid, then their physicochemical properties were characterized via UV-Vis, XRD, FTIR, DLS, FE-SEM, and EDX analyses. In vitro release profile, antioxidant and anticancer activities of NPs were also studied. The FE-SEM and DLS analyses indicated stable NPs with an average size of 88.5 nm and high zeta potential (-32 mV). The sulforaphane release profile from NPs was pH-dependent, with the maximum release value (70%) observed in simulated intestinal fluid (pH = 7.4). Encapsulation of BSE also decreased the release rate of sulforaphane from the capsules compared to the free BSE. In vitro cytotoxicity of BSE and NPs on breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7) were concentration-dependent, and IC50 for BSE and NPs were acquired in 54 and 210 μg mL−1, respectively. Moreover, the NPs demonstrated no appreciable cytotoxicity in normal mouse fibroblast (L929) cell lines. These results indicated that biocompatible NPs synthesized as controlled and long-term targeted drug delivery systems can be a potential candidate for breast cancer therapy.