Cancer Drug Delivery Research Articles

A novel supramolecule combining the pharmacological benefits of berberin and catechin for the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer

Natural small molecule catechins (CC) show significant promise in preventing and treating cervical cancer due to their remarkable anti-HPV, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties. However, the poor stability, fragile chemical structure, and high hydrophilicity of CC seriously affect the ultimate anti-tumor effect of the drug. In order to overcome these drawbacks of CC, berberine (BBR) assisted CC assembly with the same anti-cervical cancer effect was selected, taking advantage of the easy alkaloid self-assembly properties of polyphenolic compounds. We report a novel dual component (BBR and CC) directed self-assembly mode. The two small molecules were assembled into highly drug-loaded, homogeneous supramolecules (341 nm) by π-π stacking at 60℃, pH 7.4, the reaction time of 1 h, and the molar ratio of BBR to CC of 2:1. The supramolecular self-assembled nanoparticles (NPS) not only exhibit excellent stability, high assembly rate (86.42 %), and sustained release performance, but also have stronger cell binding and uptake capabilities. In addition, the assembled supramolecules (BBR-CC NPS) retain the excellent biological characteristics of BBR and CC. It had good anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. More importantly, this NPS can disrupt mitochondrial membrane potential, increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) release, and induce apoptosis in cancer cells. These results indicated that BBR-CC NPS can serve as a carrier-free drug delivery system that enhances drug stability while exhibiting synergistic pharmacological activity. This provides more possibilities for the application of natural small molecules in cancer treatment and drug delivery. Additionally, it also presents new insights into the integration mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine.

Niosomes as a Nanocarrier for Breast Cancer Drug Delivery Applications

Niosomes as a Nanocarrier for Breast Cancer Drug Delivery Applications

Prospects of Targeted Gene/Drug Delivery Vectors and their Potential Use in Cancer Therapy

Abstract:: Targeted gene and drug delivery vector developments have completely changed the therapeutic intervention by providing previously unheard-of levels of accuracy and efficacy in treating various illnesses. Cancer is one such fatal disease plaguing people across the globe. This review article highlights the potential uses of targeted delivery systems in the field of cancer treatment while providing a thorough examination of the state of the art. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are being used to cure cancer, yet they can be frequently ineffective and have serious adverse effects. Novel techniques for therapy have to be designed. Existing chemotherapy is being superseded by particular gene therapy used for genetic diseases. Therefore, to deliver the therapeutic agent to the targeted place, a carrier or vector is needed. The current review is focused on targeted gene/drug delivery vectors concerning i) cationic lipids that target single receptors ii) ligand-peptide conjugated cationic lipids iii) modalities for targeting dual ligands for cancer therapy iv) passive versus active targeting v) properties of nano-formulations for gene and drug delivery. The most recent developments in lipid customization for certain receptors overexpressed in cancer cells are covered to reduce side effects and improve treatment results. By delving into the above areas, this review presents a broad overview of the changing field of cationic lipids in cancer therapy, giving scientists and medical professionals insightful knowledge about the many strategies for ensuring precise and efficient drug delivery in the battle against cancer.

Luminescent nanotherapeutics system for Real-Time imaging and Membrane-Mitochondria stepwise targeted drug delivery in ovarian cancer

Considerable attention has been devoted to developing anti-cancer treatments targeted mitochondria. However, there is a dearth of literature on using luminescent metal–organic frameworks for the transportation of anti-cancer drugs to organelles. A luminescent nanotherapeutic platform known as UiO-DOX@FA/TPP has been engineered with a membrane-mitochondrial stepwise targeting strategy for the delivery of doxorubicin (DOX). DOX administration caused mitochondrial dysfunction, increased Caspase-3 activity, and cell apoptosis. The UiO-DOX@FA/TPP system improved drug sensitivity, requiring only 10.8 % of the free DOX dose. It showed strong anti-tumor effects in vivo, with over 98 % tumor growth inhibition and commendable biocompatibility. The system also enabled in vivo imaging by emitting fluorescence at around 500 nm, highlighting its transport and targeted distribution to tumor sites. Furthermore, treating cells with UiO-DOX@FA/TPP nanosystem led to extensive gene expression changes, primarily enriched in Ca2+ signaling and autophagy regulation. The stepwise targeted luminescent UiO-DOX@FA/TPP nanosystem allow for the precise identification and delineation of ovarian cancer boundaries, monitoring of drug transport in real-time, and targeted delivery to mitochondria for inducing apoptosis. This innovative approach provides a theoretical and methodological basis for integrating ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Chemical potential and biomedical activity of gold nanoparticles in cancer and drug delivery systems: an updat

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are broadly utilized in medical fields because of its unique potential, biomedical activity and physicochemical properties. The biocompatible nature, optical properties, and minor cytotoxicity are the key features of AuNPs which make them valuable for biomedical applications. Today, AuNPs are widely used for cancer therapy, bioimaging, biosensing, radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy and drug delivery system. The present article illustrates the current progress in AuNPs synthesis, properties of AuNPs, various biomedical activity of AuNPs in therapeutic fields and drug delivery systems. Apart from numerous benefits the chemically synthesized AuNPs also creates certain level of toxicity in the living system which represents confronts of AuNPs against biomedical applications. Reducing its cytotoxic nature and development of green AuNPs can led to development of new history in field of medical science and clinical trials. Thus, the present review article deals with the compiled study of various fundamental research over AuNPs such as its chemical and bio-synthesis, biomedical and therapeutic applications viz. plasmonic photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, folate receptor targeting, targeted drug delivery etc. The article also finds some of its confronts against biomedical application because of its cytotoxic nature and its possible future prospects.

Fluorinated Organic Polymers for Cancer Drug Delivery.

In the realm of cancer therapy, the spotlight is on nanoscale pharmaceutical delivery systems, especially polymer-based nanoparticles, for their enhanced drug dissolution, extended presence in the bloodstream, and precision targeting achieved via surface engineering. Leveraging the amplified permeation and retention phenomenon, these systems concentrate therapeutic agents within tumor tissues. Nonetheless, the hurdles of systemic toxicity, biological barriers, and compatibility with living systems persist. Fluorinated polymers, distinguished by their chemical idiosyncrasies, are poised for extensive biomedical applications, notably in stabilizing drug metabolism, augmenting lipophilicity, and optimizing bioavailability. Material science heralds the advent of fluorinated polymers that, by integrating fluorine atoms, unveil a suite of drug delivery merits: the hydrophobic traits of fluorinated alkyl chains ward off lipid or protein disruption, the carbon-fluorine bond's stability extends the drug's lifecycle in the system, and a lower alkalinity coupled with a diminished ionic charge bolsters the drug's ability to traverse cellular membranes. This comprehensive review delves into the utilization of fluorinated polymers for oncological pharmacotherapy, elucidating their molecular architecture, synthetic pathways, and functional attributes, alongside an exploration of their empirical strengths and the quandaries they encounter in both experimental and clinical settings.

Mg-doped ZnO nanoparticle as an effective nanocarrier in delivery of 5-Fluorouracil anti-gastric cancer drug

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a chemotherapy drug that belongs to a class of medications known as antimetabolites and has many applications in cancer therapy, especially in the treatment of gastric cancer. However, high dose of 5-FU in gastric cancer treatment can cause various side effects. Therefore, delivery of this significant drug with a suitable delivery system can significantly improve the safety and efficacy of this drug, leading to better treatment outcomes and improved patient quality of life. Mg-doped ZnO has garnered significant attention in scientific research due to its distinct physicochemical characteristics. This investigation introduces an uncomplicated and economical approach for synthesis of Mg-doped ZnO nanoparticles. Then, the nanoparticles were subjected to thorough analysis employing FT-IR, XRD, XPS, FE-SEM, TEM, UV–Vis, EDS, and DLS techniques. Subsequently, the research explored capacity of the created nanostructure to serve as a nanocarrier for 5-Fluorouracil. Findings indicated an approximately 76 % drug loading capacity that is dependent on pH and duration time. The release profile depicted a gradual release under physiological conditions (pH 7.4, 39 %), contrasting with a notably accelerated release rate at pH 5.3 (82 %) in 48 h. Furthermore, an in vitro assessment of cellular cytotoxicity performed on AGS gastric cancer cell line to evaluate safety and effectiveness of Mg-doped ZnO nanoparticles. Results from MTT assay affirmed the potential of this nanoparticle as a promising vehicle for 5-Fluorouracil delivery.

Innovative tumor interstitial fluid-triggered carbon dot-docetaxel nanoassemblies for targeted drug delivery and imaging of HER2-positive breast cancer

In this study, we have developed an innovative pH-triggered nanomedicine delivery system, targeting HER2-positive breast cancer cells for effective low-cost, imaging-guided drug delivery and precise therapy. The key feature of this system lies in its unique tumor interstitial fluid microenvironment-responsive drug release behavior which achieved tumor site-specific drug delivery. Our in vitro experiments demonstrated that the carbon dot-integrated material achieves more efficient DTX release (96.13 % at 72 h) in the tumor interstitial fluid microenvironment (pH 6.5), thereby boosting drug concentration at the tumor site and enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Further cell experiments confirmed the system's significant inhibitory effect on HER2-positive tumor cells SKBR3 in a pH 6.5 environment, and apoptosis assays indicating a notable increase in early cell apoptosis (from 8.39 % to 24.61 % compared with pH 7.4). Furthermore, the integration of HER2 aptamer within the carbon dot-based system enables targeted recognition and binding to tumor cells, ensuring more precise delivery of DTX while minimizing potential side effects. Crucially, the carbon dots in this system emit superior red fluorescence (the QY = 47.64 % excited at 535 nm compared with Rodamine 6G), enabling real-time visualization of the drug delivery process. This feature provides valuable feedback on treatment effectiveness, facilitating necessary adjustments. The small size (1.88 ± 0.48 nm) of carbon dots significantly improved their ability to penetrate biological barriers, while their low toxicity (no significant cell toxicity under 350 μg/mL) contributed to the formulation’s outstanding biocompatibility. Overall, this carbon dot-enhanced drug delivery system offers immense potential for enhancing drug efficacy, minimizing side effects, and providing real-time treatment monitoring, thus proposing a innovate strategy for breast cancer therapy.

Phospholipid Complex Formulation Technology for Improved Drug Delivery in Oncological Settings: a Comprehensive Review.

Addressing poor solubility and permeability issues associated with synthetic drugs and naturally occurring active compounds is crucial for improving bioavailability. This review explores the potential of phospholipid complex formulation technology to overcome these challenges. Phospholipids, as endogenous molecules, offer a viable solution, with drugs complexed with phospholipids demonstrating a similar absorption mechanism. The non-toxic and biodegradable nature of the phospholipid complex positions it as an ideal candidate for drug delivery. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of the mechanisms underlying phospholipid complexes. Special emphasis is placed on the solvent evaporation method, with meticulous scrutiny of formulation aspects such as the phospholipid ratio to the drug and solvent. Characterization techniques are employed to understand structural and functional attributes. Highlighting the adaptability of the phospholipid complex, the review discusses the loading of various nanoformulations and emulsion systems. These strategies aim to enhance drug delivery and efficacy in various malignancies, including breast, liver, lung, cervical, and pancreatic cancers. The broader application of the drug phospholipid complex is showcased, emphasizing its adaptability in diverse oncological settings. The review not only explores the mechanisms and formulation aspects of phospholipid complexes but also provides an overview of key clinical studies and patents. These insights contribute to the intellectual and translational advancements in drug phospholipid complexes.

Nanotechnology Integrated Innovative Drug Delivery and Therapy for Cancer.

Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, necessitating innovative approaches to enhance the efficacy and specificity of therapeutic interventions while minimizing adverse effects on healthy tissues. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising avenue in cancer treatment, offering novel strategies for targeted drug delivery. Nanoparticles, liposomes, and polymer-based systems have played pivotal roles in revolutionizing cancer therapy. Nanotechnology possesses unique physicochemical properties, enabling efficient encapsulation of therapeutic agents and controlled and prolonged release at tumour sites. Advancement in formulations using nanotechnology has made it possible to make multifunctional systems that respond to the microenvironment of a tumour by releasing payloads in response to changes in pH, temperature, or enzymes. Stimuli-responsive polymers can release drugs in response to external cues, enabling site-specific drug release and minimizing systemic exposure. This review explores recent studies and preclinical trials that show how nanoparticles, liposomes, and polymerbased systems could be used to treat cancer, discussing challenges such as scalability, regulatory approval, and potential toxicity concerns along with patents published recently.

Folate functionalized multifunctional CuO@PHBV@PDA nanoplatform for pH-Responsive dual drug delivery and ROS-driven apoptosis in breast cancer

Current anticancer nanocarriers are still constrained by a disparity between their various functionalities and biocompatibility. Drug combinations delivered via cell-specific nanocarriers have the potential to improve therapeutic efficacy. Herein, we prepared a ROS-responsive CuO nanoparticle drug delivery system for treating breast cancer loaded with 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and paclitaxel (PTX), encased in a layer of PHBV/PDA and embellished with folate to yield 5-FU@PTX-CuO@PHBV@PDA/FA NPs. Excellent monodispersity, size stability, and biocompatibility were displayed by the resulting nanoplatform with a diameter of about 186.3 ± 7.2 nm. Synthesized nanoplatform was studied in NIH 3T3 and MCF-7 cells to determine their antitumor mechanism. Invitro pH-dependent drug release rate, drug encapsulation, loading efficiency, and hemocompatibility were all quantified via Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. Half-maximal inhibitory concentration values for dual drug-loaded CuO@PHBV@PDA/FA NPs and free drugs combination were 12.5 and 25 μg/mL, respectively, indicating considerably stronger antitumor activity of 5-FU@PTX-CuO@PHBV@PDA/FA NPs than free drugs combination. Apoptotic cell death, mitochondrial membrane potential loss, and ROS production were also examined in vitro. In contrary, dual drug-loaded nanoparticles exhibited concentration-dependent and synergistic cytotoxicity towards MCF-7 cells. Together, these findings suggest that the 5-FU@PTX-CuO@PHBV@PDA/FA nanoplatform may help to resolve the conflict between the multifunctionality and biocompatibility of nanocarriers.

The Methylurolithin A-loaded PLGA-Folate-Chitosan Nanoparticles (Mu-PFCNPs), as the novel safe selective anti-colon cancer drug delivery system

The Methylurolithin A-loaded PLGA-Folate-Chitosan Nanoparticles (Mu-PFCNPs), as the novel safe selective anti-colon cancer drug delivery system

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Vesicular Nanocarrier Systems for Elimination of Skin Cancer

Background:: Skin cancer, a common malignancy worldwide, has increased incidence and mortality. Thus, it is a public health issue and a significant illness burden, which increases treatment costs. Chemotherapy and surgery are used to treat skin cancer. However, conventional skin cancer treatments have several limitations, demanding the development of innovative, safe, and effective methods. To overcome these limitations of conventional topical dosage forms, many nanocarriers have been developed and tested for the targeted delivery of anticancer drugs. Objective:: The main objective of the present review was to discuss the utility of various vesicular nanocarrier systems to deliver anticancer drugs following topical administration to treat skin cancer. Methods:: For this review article, we scoured the scholarly literature using Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Pubmed. Discussion:: The vesicular drug delivery system has been intensively explored and developed as an alternative to conventional skin cancer drug delivery systems, especially for melanoma. They improve the penetration of anticancer drugs via the skin, reaching the cancer area with enough and killing cancer cells. Vesicles minimize skin irritation and drug degradation. This improves therapy efficacy and reduces systemic toxicity. Conclusion:: Utilizing the vesicular drug delivery system shows promise in treating skin cancer. Therefore, further research and inquiries are necessary to explore the therapeutic potential of these substances in treating skin cancer, intending to develop a personalized, efficient, and secure therapy approach for patients with this condition.

Phytosomes: a critical tool for delivery of herbal drugs for cancer

Phytosomes: a critical tool for delivery of herbal drugs for cancer

Effect of MoS2 on Simple and Novel PEG/κ-Carrageenan Hydrogels for TNBC Cancer Drug Delivery

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), a two-dimensional inorganic molecule, has lately been studied in medical research with regard to carrying pharmaceuticals due to its distinctive characteristics. A biodegradable polymer system applicable in cancer drug delivery can be created with the addition of MoS2. In our research described in this paper, we investigated the influence of the amount of MoS2 on the characteristics and performance of our novel gel blend. It was aimed to prepare a new gel blend, which we thought would have the potential to be used as a stimulus-sensitive, polymeric hydrogel as a carrier in the triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) drug delivery system, with the MoS2 added to the polyethylene glycol (PEG)/κ-carrageenan combination. This 2D material (MoS2) impacted the hydrogel by improving the transmittance, swelling, and elasticity performance compared to the normal no MoS2 structure of the polymeric gel. The polymer blend characteristics were mainly tested using UV-VIS spectrophotometry and gravimetric analysis. The varied properties of these gel mixtures were investigated using five different mass ratios of MoS2. The 5 mg MoS2/(PEG)/κ-carrageenan gel was the best sample investigated in terms of the elasticity. The results of the study demonstrated that our gel system can be utilized for precisely targeted and regulated delivery of cancer drugs. To create preliminary data for this near future goal, the release mechanism of the Doxorubicin drug loaded into the produced gel were examined.

Al/ZnO nanoparticle as an effective nanocarrier in delivery of lenalidomide anti-multiple myeloma cancer drug

ABSTRACT Lenalidomide is a key drug in multiple myeloma. Moreover, Al-ZnO has garnered significant attention due to its distinct physicochemical characteristics. This investigation introduces an economic approach for fabrication and characterization of Al-ZnO nanoparticles by SEM, TEM, FT-IR, XPS, UV-VIS, EDS, and XRD techniques. Subsequently, the research explored capacity of the created nanostructure to serve as a nanocarrier for Lenalidomide. Findings indicated an approximate 71% drug loading capacity that is dependent on pH and duration time. The release profile depicted a gradual release under physiological conditions (pH 7.4, 28%), contrasting with a notably accelerated release rate at pH 6.2 (78%) in 48 h. Furthermore, an in vitro assessment of cellular cytotoxicity performed on U266 multiple myeloma cancer cell line to evaluate safety and effectiveness of Al-ZnO nanoparticles. Results from MTT assay affirmed the potential of this nanoparticle as a promising vehicle for Lenalidomide delivery.

Recent Advancements in the Applications of Covalent Organic Frameworks for Cancer Therapeutics: A Review

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have gained significant attention in recent years as efficient cancer therapeutics owing to their uniform porosity, biocompatibility, diversified structures and stability in the biological medium. This review aimed to explore different synthetic strategies to obtain COFs for biomedical applications. Several synthetic procedures viz. solvothermal synthesis, ionothermal synthesis, microwave synthesis, mechanochemical synthesis, sonochemical synthesis have discussed been in terms of their applications in cancer therapy. The cancer therapeutics involves cancer drug delivery, photodynamic therapy (PDT), photo thermal therapy (PTT) and sonodynamic therapy (SDT). In some instances, single therapeutics treatments appear as inadequate effect and thus necessitate combination therapies for effective cancer termination with minimal side effects. The current study covers all the main synthetic techniques and uses of COFs in various cancer therapeutic treatments.

Glutathione-Responsive and Hydrogen Sulfide Self-Generating Nanocages Based on Self-Weaving Technology To Optimize Cancer Immunotherapy.

As an ideal drug carrier, it should possess high drug loading and encapsulation efficiency and precise drug targeting release. Herein, we utilized a template-guided self-weaving technology of phase-separated silk fibroin (SF) in reverse microemulsion (RME) to fabricate a kind of hyaluronic acid (HA) coated SF nanocage (HA-gNCs) for drug delivery of cancer immunotherapy. Due to the hollow structure, HA-gNCs were capable of simultaneous encapsulation of the anti-inflammatory drug betamethasone phosphate (BetP) and the immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) agent PD-L1 antibody (αPD-L1) efficiently. Another point worth noting was that the thiocarbonate cross-linkers used to strengthen the SF shell of HA-gNCs could be quickly broken by overexpressed glutathione (GSH) to reach responsive drug release inside tumor tissues accompanied by hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production in one step. The synergistic effect of released BetP and generated H2S guaranteed chronological modulation of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (ITME) to amplify the therapeutic effect of αPD-L1 for the growth, metastasis, and recurrence of tumors. This study highlighted the exceptional prospect of HA-gNCs as a self-assistance platform for cancer drug delivery.

Curcumin coating: a novel solution to mitigate inherent carbon nanotube toxicity

Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) are inert structures with high aspect ratios that are widely used as vehicles for targeted drug delivery in cancer and many other diseases. They are largely non-toxic in nature however, when cells are exposed to these nanotubes for prolonged durations or at high concentrations, they show certain adverse effects. These include cytotoxicity, inflammation, generation of oxidative stress, and genotoxicity among others. To combat such adverse effects, various moieties can be attached to the surface of these nanotubes. Curcumin is a known anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and cytoprotective compound derived from a medicinal plant called Curcuma longa. In this study, we have synthesized and characterized Curcumin coated-lysine functionalized MWCNTs and further evaluated the cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiapoptotic effect of Curcumin coating on the surface of MWCNTs. The results show a significant decrease in the level of inflammatory molecules like IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, TNFα and NFκB in cells exposed to Curcumin-coated MWCNTs as compared to the uncoated ones at both transcript and protein levels. Further, compared to the uncoated samples, there is a reduction in ROS production and upregulation of antioxidant enzyme-Catalase in the cells treated with Curcumin-coated MWCNTs. Curcumin coating also helped in recovery of mitochondrial membrane potential in the cells exposed to MWCNTs. Lastly, cells exposed to Curcumin-coated MWCNTs showed reduced cell death as compared to the ones exposed to uncoated MWCNTs. Our findings suggest that coating of Curcumin on the surface of MWCNTs reduces its ability to cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell death.Graphical (a) Synthesis of Curcumin-coated-Lysine-functionalized MWCNTs. (b) Flow of research depicting experimental groups and studies performed along with the underlying techniques used.

Preparation of novel shell-ionotropically crosslinked micelles based on hexadecylamine and tripolyphosphate for cancer drug delivery

Aims Micellar systems have the advantage of being easily prepared, cheap, and readily loadable with bioactive molecular cargo. However, their fundamental pitfall is poor stability, particularly under dilution conditions. We propose to use simple quaternary ammonium surfactants, namely, hexadecylamine (HDA) and hexadecylpyridinium (HDAP), together with tripolyphosphate (TPP) anion, to generate ionotropically stabilized micelles capable of drug delivery into cancer cells. Methods optimized mixed HDA/HDAP micelles were prepared and stabilized with TPP. Curcumin was used as a loaded model drug. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by dynamic light scattering, infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. Moreover, their cellular uptake was assessed using flow cytometry and confocal fluorescence microscopy. Results The prepared nanoparticles were found to be stable under dilution and at high temperatures and to have a size range from 139 nm to 580 nm, depending on pH (4.6-7.4), dilution (up to 100 times), and temperature (25 – 80 °C). They were effective at delivering their load into cancer cells. Additionally, flow cytometry indicated the resulting stabilized micellar nanoparticles to be non-cytotoxic. Conclusions The described novel stabilized micelles are simple to prepare and viable for cancer delivery.