Encapsulation Of Nanoparticles Research Articles

Exploring the therapeutic potential of Aloin: unraveling neuroprotective and anticancer mechanisms, and strategies for enhanced stability and delivery

We investigate the therapeutic potential of Aloin A and Aloin B, two natural compounds derived from Aloe vera leaves, focusing on their neuroprotective and anticancer properties. The structural differences between these two epimers suggest that they may exhibit distinct pharmacological properties. Our investigations revealed that both epimers are not stable in aqueous solution and tend to degrade rapidly, with their concentration decreasing by over 50% within approximately 12 h. These results underscore the importance of addressing issues such as the need for encapsulation into effective drug delivery systems to enhance stability. ThT fluorescence experiments showed that neither compound was able to inhibit Aβ amyloid aggregation, indicating that other mechanisms may be responsible for their neuroprotective effects. Next, an equimolar mixture of Aloin A and Aloin B demonstrated an ability to inhibit proteasome in tube tests, which is suggestive of potential anticancer properties, in accordance with antiproliferative effects observed in neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y and HeLa cell lines. Higher water stability and increased antiproliferative activity were observed by encapsulation in carbon dot nanoparticles, suggesting a promising potential for further in vivo studies.

Defective TiOx overlayers catalyze propane dehydrogenation promoted by base metals.

The industrial catalysts utilized for propane dehydrogenation (PDH) to propylene, an important alternative to petroleum-based cracking processes, either use expensive metals or metal oxides that are environmentally unbenign. We report that a typically less-active oxide, titanium oxide (TiO2), can be combined with earth-abundant metallic nickel (Ni) to form an unconventional Ni@TiOx catalyst for efficient PDH. The catalyst demonstrates a 94% propylene selectivity at 40% propane conversion and superior stability under industrially relevant conditions. Complete encapsulation of Ni nanoparticles was allowed at elevated temperatures (>550°C). A mechanistic study suggested that the defective TiOx overlayer consisting of tetracoordinated Ti sites with oxygen vacancies is catalytically active. Subsurface metallic Ni acts as an electronic promoter to accelerate carbon-hydrogen bond activation and hydrogen (H2) desorption on the TiOx overlayer.

Enhanced Stability of α-Mangostin-Rich Extract and Selective Cytotoxicity against Cancer Cells via Encapsulation in Antioxidant Nanoparticles (AME@NanoAOX).

α-Mangostin-rich extract (AME) shows promise as a functional ingredient for cancer chemotherapy. Here, we encapsulated AME in our originally designed antioxidant nanoparticles (NanoAOX) to increase its solubility and prevent oxidative degradation (AME@NanoAOX). In this study, two types of self-assembled polymers containing nitroxide radicals were engineered. These polymers were self-assembled into nanoscale particles in aqueous media, entrapping AME (abbreviated as AME@NanoAOX(B) and AME@NanoAOX(G)). These formulations considerably improved the stability of AME against oxidative degradation and exhibited different release profiles of α-mangostin under different pH conditions. Furthermore, AME-encapsulated nanoparticles exhibited potent cytotoxicity against various cancer cell lines, including human breast cancer (MCF-7), human lung cancer (A549), human colon cancer (Caco-2), human cervical cancer (HeLa), and human liver cancer (HepG2) cell lines, with minimal cytotoxicity in normal human mammary epithelial cells (hTERT-HME1), thus providing a high selectivity index (SI). These results indicated the promising feature of AME-encapsulated antioxidant nanoparticles (AME@NanoAOX) for cancer chemotherapy.

Strong Interaction between Molybdenum Compounds and Mesoporous CMK‐5 Supports Boosts Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

AbstractStrong metal‐support interaction (SMSI) between transition metal nanoparticles and carbon matrix offers significant structure advantages due to the ability to modulate the electronic structure of metal nanoparticles, increase the density of active sites, and improve the conductivity of catalysts. Here, ultrafine nanoparticles of metallic molybdenum compounds (MoP, Mo2C, and MoS2) strongly coupled with mesoporous carbon CMK‐5 are synthesized. The confinement growth of nanoparticles in the pores of CMK‐5 produces encapsulated nanoparticles, affording facilitated electron transfer, and enhancing the HER activity induced by the SMSI effect. The hierarchical nanostructure and strong electronic interactions between the carbon substrate and molybdenum‐based nanoparticles allow efficient mass/electron transport between the carbon substrate and molybdenum‐based nanoparticles, improving the catalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. The effective electron exchange between the Mo species and the CMK‐5 support is studied by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurement, confirming the presence of the SMSI effect. The resulting MoP/CMK‐5 catalyst exhibits outstanding HER performance in alkaline (65 mV@10 mA cm−2), acidic (123 mV@10 mA cm−2), and simulated seawater electrolytes (103 mV@10 mA cm−2), making it one of the most promising catalysts reported for HER. This work provides guidance on designing high‐performance electrocatalysts with SMSI for the enhancement of the electrochemical reaction.

In vitro evaluation and in situ intestinal absorption characterisation of paeoniflorin nanoparticles in a rat model.

Purpose: the aim of this study was to improve the stability and bioavailability of paeoniflorin (PF) by using nanoparticle encapsulation technology. Methods: paeoniflorin nanoparticles (PF NPs) were prepared with PLGA as the carrier using the compound emulsion method. The nanoparticles were characterised by using a Malvern laser particle sizer, transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyser, and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometry. The PF NPs were subjected to a series of stability investigations (such as for 4 °C storage stability, pH stability, and thermal stability), lyophilisation protection technology investigations, and in vitro release studies. Finally, the intestinal absorption properties of PF and PF NPs were studied by the in situ single-pass intestinal perfusion (SPIP) rat model, using the effective permeability coefficient (P eff) and the absorption rate constant (K a) as relevant indexes. Results: the prepared nanoparticles had a particle size of 105.0 nm with blue opalescent, rounded morphology, uniform size, good stability and slow release. We found that 4% alginate was the best lyoprotectant for the PF NPs. In the intestinal absorption experiments, P eff was higher for the PF NPs group compared with the original PF material drug group in all intestinal segments (P < 0.05), and the absorption rate constant K a increased with the increase in the drug concentration. Conclusion: the nanoparticles produced by this method have good stability and a slow-release effect; they can thus improve the absorption of PF in rat intestines, helping improve the stability and bioavailability of PF and enhancing its pharmacological effects.

Synthesis and Properties of a Strained Triple Nanohoop.

A strained triple nanohoop with a shared central benzene unit is synthesized using a threefold intramolecular ring-closing approach. Among the five possible constitutional isomers, the isomer with the highest D3h symmetry is isolated, the structure of which contains three nanohoop blades and a central hexaphenylbenzene unit. The structure is elucidated using NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The optical and electrochemical properties are investigated, revealing a moderate fluorescence quantum yield of 40 %. A water-soluble nanomaterial is prepared using a nanoparticle encapsulation method, and a fluorescence quantum yield of 10 % is retained, which demonstrates the potential of the nanomaterial in biological systems.

Pectin film fortified with zein nanoparticles and Fe3+-Encapsulated propolis extract for enhanced fruit preservation

In this study, pectin served as the film matrix while propolis extract (PPE) acted as both an antibacterial agent and antioxidant. Utilizing the encapsulation of zein nanoparticles and cross-linking of Fe3+ with pectin molecules, a dual encapsulation system of PPE in the pectin film was successfully achieved, resulting in antibacterial and antioxidant pectin films. The effects of incorporating PPE, zein, and Fe3+ on various properties of the pectin films were investigated. Additionally, the impact of zein nanoparticle encapsulation and Fe3+ dual encapsulation systems on the release characteristics of PPE in the pectin films was examined. Characterization techniques including FTIR, SEM, XRD crystal diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis were employed to analyze the interactions, microstructure, crystal structure, and thermal stability of the films. The results showed that the double cross-linking of zein and Fe3+ led to a reduction in the moisture content of the pectin film by approximately 46%, a decrease in water vapor permeability by about 19%, an almost doubling of tensile strength and antioxidant activity, and a significant improvement in antibacterial properties. Additionally, the incorporation of zein and Fe3+ enhanced the release characteristics of PPE in the pectin films. Notably, the developed composite coating demonstrated improved preservation properties during the storage of strawberry fruits.

Near Infrared Biomimetic Hybrid Magnetic Nanocarrier for MRI-Guided Thermal Therapy.

Cell-membrane hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) are designed to improve drug delivery, thermal therapy, and immunotherapy for several diseases. Here, we report the development of distinct biomimetic magnetic nanocarriers containing magnetic nanoparticles encapsulated in vesicles and IR780 near-infrared dyes incorporated in the membranes. Distinct cell membranes are investigated, red blood cell (RBC), melanoma (B16F10), and glioblastoma (GL261). Hybrid nanocarriers containing synthetic lipids and a cell membrane are designed. The biomedical applications of several systems are compared. The inorganic nanoparticle consisted of Mn-ferrite nanoparticles with a core diameter of 15 ± 4 nm. TEM images show many multicore nanostructures (∼40 nm), which correlate with the hydrodynamic size. Ultrahigh transverse relaxivity values are reported for the magnetic NPs, 746 mM-1s-1, decreasing respectively to 445 mM-1s-1 and 278 mM-1s-1 for the B16F10 and GL261 hybrid vesicles. The ratio of relaxivities r2/r1 decreased with the higher encapsulation of NPs and increased for the biomimetic liposomes. Therapeutic temperatures are achieved by both, magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia and photothermal therapy. Photothermal conversion efficiency ∼25-30% are reported. Cell culture revealed lower wrapping times for the biomimetic vesicles. In vivo experiments with distinct routes of nanoparticle administration were investigated. Intratumoral injection proved the nanoparticle-mediated PTT efficiency. MRI and near-infrared images showed that the nanoparticles accumulate in the tumor after intravenous or intraperitoneal administration. Both routes benefit from MRI-guided PTT and demonstrate the multimodal theranostic applications for cancer therapy.

Hypolipidemic activity of phytochemical combinations: A mechanistic review of preclinical and clinical studies

Hyperlipidemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of lipids in the blood, poses a significant risk factor for various health disorders, notably cardiovascular diseases. Phytochemical compounds are promising alternatives to the current lipid-lowering drugs, which cause many undesirable effects. Based on in vivo and clinical studies, combining phytochemicals with other phytochemicals, prebiotics, and probiotics and their encapsulation in nanoparticles is more safe and effective for managing hyperlipidemia than monotherapy. To this end, the results obtained and the mechanisms of action of these combinations were examined in detail in this review.

Synthesis, Characterization, and In-Vitro Evaluation of Silibinin-loaded PEGylated Niosomal Nanoparticles: Potential Anti-Cancer Effects on SW480 Colon Cancer Cells.

Colorectal cancer is a significant global health concern with high mortality rates. Silibinin is a compound derived from milk thistle with anticancer properties and may be a potential treatment option for colorectal cancer. Its poor solubility limits its clinical application, but various strategies, such as nanoparticle encapsulation, have shown promise. In this study, a PEGylated niosomal drug delivery system was used to enhance the solubility of silibinin, and its anti-proliferative effects were evaluated against human colorectal cancer cell lines. The silibinin-loaded PEGylated niosomal nanoparticles (NIO-SIL) were fabricated using the thin-film hydration method and characterized with dialysis bag, AFM, SEM, DLS, and FTIR systems. Finally, the cancerous cells and human normal cells were treated with NIO-SIL and pure silibinin. The proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle of these cells were evaluated. Subsequently, the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, p53, and cyclin D1 genes was measured using real-time PCR. The drug release profile, size, morphology, and chemical interactions of the synthesized PEGylated niosomal nanoparticles were suitable for use as a drug delivery system. Both pure silibinin and NIO-SIL could reduce the proliferation of cancerous cells, induce apoptosis, and cause cell cycle arrest, with no significant negative effects reported on human normal cells. Both pure silibinin and NIO-SIL reduced the expression of the Bcl-2 and cyclin D1 genes while increasing the expression of Bax and p53. (p-value < 0.05 *). The outcomes of this study indicate the high potential of PEGylated niosomal nanoparticles for encapsulation and delivery of silibinin to cancer cells, with no negative effects on normal cells.

Nanoparticle's Encapsulation As a Marker for Leading Cells in Collective Migration of Breast Cancer Cells

Nanoparticle's Encapsulation As a Marker for Leading Cells in Collective Migration of Breast Cancer Cells

Nanoparticle's Encapsulation Ability Is More Efficient for Characterization of Invading Breast Cancer Cells Than EMT Markers

Nanoparticle's Encapsulation Ability Is More Efficient for Characterization of Invading Breast Cancer Cells Than EMT Markers

Biodegradation by Cancer Cells of Magnetite Nanoflowers with and without Encapsulation in PS-b-PAA Block Copolymer Micelles.

Magnetomicelles were produced by the self-assembly of magnetite iron oxide nanoflowers and the amphiphilic poly(styrene)-b-poly(acrylic acid) block copolymer to deliver a multifunctional theranostic agent. Their bioprocessing by cancer cells was investigated in a three-dimensional spheroid model over a 13-day period and compared with nonencapsulated magnetic nanoflowers. A degradation process was identified and monitored at various scales, exploiting different physicochemical fingerprints. At a collective level, measurements were conducted using magnetic, photothermal, and magnetic resonance imaging techniques. At the nanoscale, transmission electron microscopy was employed to identify the morphological integrity of the structures, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy was used to analyze the degradation at the crystalline phase and chemical levels. All of these measurements converge to demonstrate that the encapsulation of magnetic nanoparticles in micelles effectively mitigates their degradation compared to individual nonencapsulated magnetic nanoflowers. This protective effect consequently resulted in better maintenance of their therapeutic photothermal potential. The structural degradation of magnetomicelles occurred through the formation of an oxidized iron phase in ferritin from the magnetic nanoparticles, leaving behind empty spherical polymeric ghost shells. These results underscore the significance of encapsulation of iron oxides in micelles in preserving nanomaterial integrity and regulating degradation, even under challenging physicochemical conditions within cancer cells.

CoS2 nanoparticles encapsulation promotes stable MoS2@CoS2@CNFs heterostructure and durable sodium-ion storage

Layered MoS2 are promising anode materials due to the applicable interlayer spacing (0.62 nm) and high theoretical specific capacity (669mAh g−1). Nevertheless, the low electric conductivity, large structure variation and sluggish ionic kinetics result in rapid capacity decay and suboptimal cycle performance of MoS2-based sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). Here, the two-step methodology was used to grow MoS2 sheets on the surface of N-doped carbon fibers with CoS2 nanoparticles encapsulated in. The obtained MoS2@CoS2@CNFs exhibit a distinctive hierarchical structure, which increases the electrode-electrolyte interface, thereby minimizing the diffusion distance of Na+. Experiment and calculation results demonstrates that the incorporation of CoS2 not only enhances the ion mobility and pseudocapacitance contribution of the electrode material, but also amplifies its conductivity and adsorption energy of Na+, ultimately elevating the rate performance and ensuring long cycle stability of SIBs. Consequently, the MoS2@CoS2@CNFs composite enabled a commendable capacity of 494.5 mAh g−1 after 700 cycles at 0.5 A g−1. Impressively, when the current density was increased to 2 A g−1, it reserved a capacity of 310 mAh g−1 for 2000 cycles. To encapsulation of CoS2 nanoparticles in the MoS2@CoS2@CNFs composite promotes the stability of the anodes and boosts durable Na+ storage, making it a promising method for designing high performance SIBs.

HPLC-UV method for the quantification of a novel indole-thiazole derivative (CS08) in nanoparticles

BackgroundValidation of an analytical method for the quantification of a drug candidate molecule is the first step. The quantification method is fundamental in the pharmaceutical industry, as it allows the development of a pharmaceutical product, such as encapsulation in nanocarriers. ObjectiveTo validate the quantification method of a novel indole-thiazole derivative (CS08) by HPLC-UV in nanoparticles. MethodsWe developed a quantification method using an HPLC coupled to a UV detector, and evaluated the method for its selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy, LOD, LOQ, and robustness. With the method, we evaluated the stability of CS08 in different pHs simulating biological media and quantified the encapsulation rate in dextran- or fucoidan-coated nanoparticles. ResultsIt was possible to quantify CS08 using the method in different matrices, proving to be a selective, linear, precise, accurate, and robust method in the determined concentrations (1–20 µg.mL−1). The LOD and LOQ were low on a microgram scale, which facilitates the quantification of CS08 for the development of pharmaceutical formulations, showing confidence in the results obtained from the rate of encapsulation in nanoparticles. ConclusionThe validated method proved to be adequate for the quantification of CS08 in different matrices, allowing the evaluation of its encapsulation rate in nanoparticles.

Green extraction of Rosa canina L. and Prunus spinosa L. by NaDES and their encapsulation in chitosan nanoparticles for cosmetic industry

The cosmetic industries increasingly value innovative natural ingredients as markers of sustainability. This work investigated the preparation of extracts from rosehips and blackthorns using natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDES) and their encapsulation in chitosan nanoparticles for cosmetic applications. The phenolic composition of the extracts, obtained either using ethanolic solution or NaDES, was evaluated through phytochemical assays. Chitosan nanoparticles were prepared using various crosslinking agents and polymer concentrations, followed by characterization of their physicochemical properties. Cell viability studies were conducted on the human dermal fibroblast cell line WS1. The NaDES extracts exhibited promising results, showing a total phenolic content of 35.26±2.41 and 8.65±0.42 mg GAE/g FW and antioxidant activity by DPPH assay of 92.67±0.74 and 86.06±1.88 % for rosehip and blackthorn, respectively. The optimized nanoparticles formulation was achieved using pentasodium tripolyphosphate solid as the crosslinking agent and a chitosan concentration of 2 mg/mL. Nanoparticle characterization revealed that they were small in size with entrapment efficiency of 63.43±0.54 and 72.64±0.68 % for rosehips and blackthorns extract, respectively. Furthermore, the chosen formulations were stable for 8 weeks and exhibited good cell viability. In conclusion, chitosan nanoparticles loaded with NaDES extract of rosehip and blackthorn could be a novel and green antioxidant formulation for cosmetic application.

Chitosan nanoparticle encapsulation of celery seed essential oil: Antifungal activity and defense mechanisms against cucumber powdery mildew

The objective of the current study was to explore the antifungal potential of celery seed essential oil (CSEO) in a nano-carrier system against Podosphaera fusca, the causal agent of cucumber powdery mildew. We assessed the physicochemical characterization of CSEO-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CSEO-LCNPs) using dynamic light scattering, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The successful loading of various concentrations of CSEO into chitosan nanoparticles (1:0, 1:0.25, 1:0.5, 1:0.75, and 1:1) has been verified. The particles exhibited a spherical shape, with an average diameter of 113 nm, and a negatively charged surface with a zeta potential of -31.5 mV. The Korsmeyer-Peppas model well described the release behavior of CSEO from nanoparticles. Additionally, we examined the defense mechanism, as well as biochemical/molecular responses following foliar treatment with CSEO-LCNPs. In vivo, results revealed that CSEO-LCNPs foliar application on the cucumber seedlings inoculated with P. fusca significantly reduced the disease severity of powdery mildew. Treatment with CSEO-LCNPs led to an increase in phenolic and flavonoid compounds, chlorophyll concentration, enzyme activities, and gene transcriptions in inoculated cucumber seedlings. In our study, we observed a positive correlation between antioxidant compounds and the defense-associated enzymes as well as their corresponding gene expressions. Our study underscores the potential of CSEO-LCNPs as an eco-friendly and effective solution for managing cucumber powdery mildew.

Analysis on Silica and Graphene Nanomaterials Obtained From Rice Straw for Antimicrobial Potential

This study focuses on the encapsulation of silica and graphene nanoparticles and their potential applications. The encapsulation enhances the properties and effectiveness of these nanoparticles, with silica providing stability and graphene contributing to high surface area and electrical conductivity. Characterization of silica-graphene nanoparticles was conducted using various techniques including High Power Microscope (HPM), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and 3D Nano Profiler. The antimicrobial activity of silica, graphene, and silica-graphene nanoparticles was evaluated using a disc diffusion assay against E. coli and B. subtilis at varying concentrations. Results showed significant antimicrobial activity, with the inhibition zone being directly proportional to the concentration. Silica-graphene nanoparticles demonstrated higher efficacy against E. coli compared to B. subtilis, attributed to differences in cell wall structure. Statistical analysis using ANOVA confirmed significant differences in antimicrobial activity among the tested components.

Encapsulation of ruthenium oxide nanoparticles in nitrogen-doped porous carbon polyhedral for pH-universal hydrogen evolution electrocatalysis

The development of pH-universal HER electrocatalyst with Pt-like activity remains challenged yet critical for hydrogen energy systems. Herein, we have successfully immobilized RuOx nanoparticles on the surface of C–N derived from zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (RuOx@C–N). The obtained RuOx@C–N exhibits Pt-like HER performance with overpotential of as low as 14 and 93 mV to drive the current density of −10 and −100 mA cm−2 in 1.0 M KOH, respectively. Furthermore, RuOx@C–N exhibits an unexpected mass activity of 0.81 A cm−2 mgRuOx−1, which is even superior to benchmark Pt/C. Such an improvement is attributed to RuOx@C–N heterostructure, which will facilitate the electron transfer due to the Mott-Schottky effect. Additionally, the nitrogen-doped carbon framework will efficiently adjust the electronic structure of metallic catalytic sites and optimize the kinetics of catalytic reaction. Benefiting from the Mott-Schottky effect, the RuOx@C–N electrocatalysts exhibit pH-universal catalytic performance toward hydrogen evolution in various electrolytes, corroborating its university and facility in industrial hydrogen production. This approach offers a facile and versatile strategy for the development of Ru-based electrocatalysts with high performance and robust stability.

Mussel-inspired protein-based nanoparticles for curcumin encapsulation and promoting antitumor efficiency

Curcumin demonstrated therapeutic potential for cancer. However, its medical application is limited due to low solubility, poor stability and low absorption rate. Here, we used the mussel-inspired functional protein (MPKE) to fabricate the curcumin-carrying nanoparticle (Cur-MPKE) for encapsulating and delivering curcumin. The protein MPKE is composed of the mussel module and zwitterionic peptide. The Dopa group bonding characteristic of the mussel module was leveraged for the self-assembly of nanoparticles, while the superhydrophilic property of the zwitterionic peptide was utilized to enhance the stability of nanoparticles. As expected, MPKE and Cur are tightly bound through hydrogen bonds and dynamic imide bonds to form nanoparticles. Cur-MPKE showed improved solubility and stability in aqueous solutions as well as excellent biocompatibility. Besides, Cur-MPKE also exhibited pH-triggered release and enhanced uptake of curcumin by tumor cells, promoting the antioxidant activity and antitumor effect of curcumin. Moreover, systemic experiments of Cur-MPKE to rats demonstrated that Cur-MPKE significantly inhibited tumor tissue growth and proliferation without causing obvious systemic toxicity. This work provides a new strategy for fabricating the delivery system of curcumin with improved stability, sustainability and bioavailability.