Theranostic Nanoparticles Research Articles

A Systematic Review on the Potential Applications of Theranostic Nanoparticles in Diabetes and its Associated Complication Diabetic Neuropathy

Background: Diabetes neuropathy is a frequent ailment that has a substantial impact on patients by increasing the risk of falls and causing discomfort. The lower extremities are where diabetic neuropathy patients first feel pain. This discomfort could seem like a pinprick, an electric shock, or something else. Objective: Here, we give a comprehensive overview of this quickly developing theranostic appli-cation that includes all relevant imaging, diagnostic, therapeutic, and monitoring elements for the management of diabetes and diabetes neuropathy. Methods: The data for the current study was gathered by searching PubMed and Google Scholar. Several research and review publications from various publishers, including Springer Nature, Bentham Science, PLOS one, MDPI, and ACS Publishing Centre, were evaluated to compile the data. Result: Recent developments in theranostics have shown promise as alternate management ap-proaches for diabetes and ailments linked to diabetes. Numerous nanotechnology-built biosen-sors, including multiwalled carbon nanotubes, copper nanowires, zinc oxide tetrapods, and nano-particle-embedded contact lenses, offer benefits in monitoring diabetic neuropathy. Conclusion: The potency, usability, and dependability of insulin substitutes have been demon-strated by a variety of innovative methods for the management of diabetes, which includes nano-technology approaches using Gene-Based Nanoparticles (siRNA), Liposomes, Exo-somes/Extracellular Vesicles, Neuromodulation, and Inhalable Nanoparticles. Over the past few years, the development of various theranostic nanoparticles for Diabetic neuropathy has experi-enced an unprecedented expansion. Even though much work needs to be done to precisely evalu-ate the genuine benefits provided by these particles, such as issues with nanotoxicity, theranostic nanoparticles will have a significant impact on the field of nanomedicine.

Multifunctional gold nanoparticles for cancer theranostics.

The diagnosis and treatment of cancer can often be challenging requiring more attractive options. Some types of cancers are more aggressive than others and symptoms for many cancers are subtle, especially in the early stages. Nanotechnology provides high sensitivity, specificity and multimodal capability for cancer detection, treatment and monitoring. In particular, metal nanoparticles (NPs) such as gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are attractive nanosystems for researchers interested in bioimaging and therapy. The size, shape and surface of AuNPs can be modified for improving targeting and accumulation in cancer cells, for example through introduction of ligands and surface charge. The interactions of AuNPs with electromagnetic radiation (e.g., visible-near-infrared, X-rays) can be used for photothermal therapy and radiation therapy, through heat generated from light absorption and emission of Auger electrons, respectively. The subsequent expansion and high X-ray attenuation from AuNPs can be used for enhancing contrast for tumor detection (e.g., using photoacoustic, computed tomography imaging). Multi-functionality can be further extended through covalent/non-covalent functionalization, for loading additional imaging/therapeutic molecules for combination therapy and multimodal imaging. In order to cover the important aspects for designing and using AuNPs for cancer theranostics, this review focuses on the synthesis, functionalization and characterization methods that are important for AuNPs, and presents their unique properties and different applications in cancer theranostics.

Biomimetic Cell Membrane-Coated Nanoparticles for Cancer Theranostics.

Nanoparticles can enhance drugs accumulating at the tumor site and hold tremendous promise for achieving effective tumor treatment. However, due to the complexity of cancer heterogeneity and suppressive tumor microenvironment, the delivery of traditional nanoparticles has poor infiltration and off-target effects, making it difficult to control the drug release rate and causing off-target toxicity. In recent years, cell membrane-coated biomimetic nanoparticles have been developed, which have both the natural characteristics of biomembranes and the physical characteristics of traditional nanoparticles, thus improving the homologous targeting ability of nanoparticles to tumor cells and better biocompatibility. In this paper, we reviewed the application of single cell membrane and hybrid cell membrane-coated biomimetic nanoparticles in the integration for tumor diagnosis and treatment. We talked about the preparation methods of cell membrane-coated nanoparticles, the targeting mechanisms, and the effects of imaging and therapeutic outcomes of different cell membrane-coated biomimetic nanoparticles in detail. Finally, we discussed the existing problems and prospects of cell membrane-coated biomimetic nanomaterials.

Synergistic Enhancement of Photodynamic Cancer Therapy with Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Theranostic Nanoparticles.

Nanoparticles engineered to combat cancer and other life-threatening diseases may significantly improve patient outcomes. However, inefficient nanoparticle delivery to tumors limits their use and necessitates the development of complex delivery approaches. Here, we examine this issue by harnessing the tumor-homing abilities of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to deliver a decoupled theranostic complex of rare earth-doped nanoparticles (dNPs) and photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6) to tumors. We show that both bone-marrow- and skin-derived MSCs can transport the dNP-Ce6 complex inside tumor spheroids, which is challenging to accomplish by passive delivery alone. MSCs deliver the dNP-Ce6 complex across the tumor spheroid, facilitating more effective photodynamic damage and tumor destruction than passively accumulated dNP-Ce6. The dNP-Ce6 complex also provides the built-in ability to monitor the MSC migration without causing undesired phototoxicity, which is essential for maximal and side-effect-free delivery of nanoparticles. Our results demonstrate how MSCs can be used as delivery vehicles for the transportation of the dNP-Ce6 complex, addressing the limitations of passive nanoparticle delivery and providing light-based theranostics.

Chlorella Vulgaris‐Inspired Versatile Theranostic Nanoparticles for Specific Recognition and Detoxification to Copper (II) In Vitro and In Vivo

AbstractSpecific recognition and detoxification for copper is the key step for the early diagnosis and treatment of various diseases such as neurodegenerative disease and Wilson's disease. Herein, a Chlorella vulgaris‐inspired versatile theranostic nanoparticles is facilely and greenly prepared by assembling quercetin into poly(beta‐cyclodextrin) (PQNPs), which is further employed in the specific recognition and detoxification for Cu2+ in vitro and in vivo. PQNPs can be used in the detection of Cu2+ in aqueous solutions with fast response time (<5 s) and low detection limit (6.499 nM). The detection for Cu2+ in water and serum can be achieved by naked eye instantaneously on a PQNPs‐based paper sensor, and PQNPs can also act as a biological diagnostic agent for the Cu2+ imaging. Remarkably, PQNPs significantly enhance cell viability of the cell models induced by Cu2+ through the synergistic capacities of chelating Cu2+ and antioxidation. The detoxification of PQNPs for copper poisoning model is further ascertained in vivo, and it found that poly‐β‐cyclodextrin is capable of crossing the blood–brain barrier. Taken together, the as‐prepared versatile theranostic nanoparticles possess advantages of simple composition, significant theranostic efficacy, and novel treatment pattern, presenting an intriguing avenue to develop therapeutics for tackling abnormal copper metabolism in the clinic.

NANO-GBM trial of AGuIX nanoparticles with radiotherapy and temozolomide in the treatment of newly diagnosed Glioblastoma: Phase 1b outcomes and MRI-based biodistribution

BackgroundIn glioblastoma (GBM), tumor progression occurs mainly within the irradiated tumor volume. To address this challenge, a radiosensitization strategy with intravenous gadolinium-based theranostic nanoparticles (AGuIX) is being explored in the NANO-GBM phase1b/2R trial (NCT04881032). Here, we present the results of the phase 1b part, which is the first-in-human use of these nanoparticles with radiotherapy and chemotherapy for the treatment of newly diagnosed GBM. Material and MethodsEligible patients were aged 18 to 75 years with newly diagnosed and histologically confirmed GBM, with incomplete resection (biopsy or partial surgery). The phase 1b part was a dose escalation approach (Time-to-event Continuous Reassessment Method) with three dose levels: 50, 75, and 100 mg/kg. Patients were treated with RT (60 Gy), and concomitant and adjuvant TMZ, and 4 injections of AGuIX (D-3/-7, D1, D8, and D15). Dose-limiting-toxicity (DLT) was defined as any grade 3–4 adverse event (CTCAE v5.0), excluding alopecia, nausea, and rapidly controlled vomiting. Pharmacokinetic (PK), and biodistribution based on MRI were evaluated. ResultsBetween March 2022 and March 2023, eight patients were enrolled: 1 at 50 mg/kg, 1 at 75 mg/kg, and 6 at 100 mg/kg. All patients received the four AGuIX injections. Only one patient experienced a DLT (at 100 mg/kg): a grade 3 lymphopenia (related to TMZ). The RP2D of AGuIX was determined as 100 mg/kg. AGuIX mean AUC increased with dose. Regions of GBM with moderate (36–123 µM), and high (123–291 µM) or very high (>291 µM) AGuIX concentrations accounted in average for 38.7 and 26.8 %, respectively. ConclusionThese results confirm the lack of AGuIX-related toxicity and the widespread dispersion of nanoparticles throughout GBM. This supports progression to the randomized phase 2 part, utilizing an RP2D of AGuIX of 100 mg/kg (4 injections).

Advancements in Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Multimodal Imaging and Tumor Theranostics.

The emergence of nanomedicine offers renewed promise in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Due to their unique physical and chemical properties, iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) exhibit widespread application in the diagnosis and treatment of various ailments, particularly tumors. IONPs have magnetic resonance (MR) T1/T2 imaging capabilities due to their different sizes. In addition, IONPs also have biocatalytic activity (nanozymes) and magnetocaloric effects. They are widely used in chemodynamic therapy (CDT), magnetic hyperthermia treatment (MHT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), and drug delivery. This review outlines the synthesis, modification, and biomedical applications of IONPs, emphasizing their role in enhancing diagnostic imaging (including single-mode and multimodal imaging) and their potential in cancer therapies (including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, CDT, and PDT). Furthermore, we briefly explore the challenges in the clinical application of IONPs, such as surface modification and protein adsorption, and put forward opinions on the clinical transformation of IONPs.

Theranostic nanoparticles for detection and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most recalcitrant cancers due to its late diagnosis, poor therapeutic response, and highly heterogeneous microenvironment. Nanotechnology has the potential to overcome some of the challenges to improve diagnostics and tumor-specific drug delivery but they have not been plausibly viable in clinical settings. The review focuses on active targeting strategies to enhance pancreatic tumor-specific uptake for nanoparticles. Additionally, this review highlights using actively targeted liposomes, micelles, gold nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, and iron oxide nanoparticles to improve pancreatic tumor targeting. Active targeting of nanoparticles toward either differentially expressed receptors or PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME) using peptides, antibodies, small molecules, polysaccharides, and hormones has been presented. We focus on microenvironment-based hallmarks of PDAC and the potential for actively targeted nanoparticles to overcome the challenges presented in PDAC. It describes the use of nanoparticles as contrast agents for improved diagnosis and the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents that target various aspects within the TME of PDAC. Additionally, we review emerging nano-contrast agents detected using imaging-based technologies and the role of nanoparticles in energy-based treatments of PDAC. This article is categorized under: Implantable Materials and Surgical Technologies > Nanoscale Tools and Techniques in Surgery Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging.

Hybrid Nanoparticles for Cancer Theranostics: A Critical Review on Design, Synthesis, and Multifunctional Capabilities.

Theranostics, a method that combines targeted therapy and diagnostic imaging, has emerged as a viable route for enhancing cancer treatment, and hybrid nanoparticles (HNPs) are at the forefront of this field. Metallic, polymeric, lipid-based, and silica- based HNPs are studied for targeting and biocompatibility. Using HNPs, chemotherapeutic drugs, small interfering RNA, and therapeutic genes can be given precisely and controlled. This enhances therapeutic efficacy and reduces adverse effects. With fluorescence dyes, MRI contrast agents, and PET tracers, real-time therapy response monitoring is conceivable. A nano platform with therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities holds great promise for personalized medicine and precision oncology. The present study discusses HNPs' biocompatibility, stability, immunogenicity, and long-term biosafety, which are crucial to the clinical translation of cancer theranostics. Further, in this in- -depth investigation, we investigated the design, synthesis, and multifunctional activities of HNPs for use in cancer theranostics.

Theragnostic Gadolinium-Based Nanoparticles Safely Augment X-ray Radiation Effects in Patients with Cervical Cancer.

Activated guided irradiation by X-ray (AGuIX) nanoparticles are gadolinium-based agents that have the dual benefit of mimicking the effects of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent used in a clinical routine and enhancing the radiotherapeutic activity of conventional X-rays (for cancer treatment). This "theragnostic" action is explained on the one hand by the paramagnetic properties of gadolinium and on the other hand by the generation of high densities of secondary radiation following the interaction of ionizing radiation and high-Z atoms, which leads to enhanced radiation dose deposits within the tumors where the nanoparticles accumulate. Here, we report the results of a phase I trial that aimed to assess the safety and determine the optimal dose of AGuIX nanoparticles in combination with chemoradiation and brachytherapy in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer. AGuIX nanoparticles were administered intravenously and appropriately accumulated within tumors on a dose-dependent manner, as assessed by T1-weighted MRI, with a rapid urinary clearance of uncaught nanoparticles. We show that the observed tumor accumulation of the compounds can support precise delineation of functional target volumes at the time of brachytherapy based on gadolinium enhancement. AGuIX nanoparticles combined with chemoradiation appeared well tolerated among the 12 patients treated, with no dose-limiting toxicity observed. Treatment yielded excellent local control, with all patients achieving complete remission of the primary tumor. One patient had a distant tumor recurrence. These results demonstrate the clinical feasibility of using theranostic nanoparticles to augment the accuracy of MRI-based treatments while focally enhancing the radiation activity in tumors.

Theranostic nanoparticles ZIF-8@ICG for pH/NIR-responsive drug-release and NIR-guided chemo-phototherapy against non-small-cell lung cancer

This study leverages nanotechnology by encapsulating indocyanine green (ICG) and paclitaxel (Tax) using zeolitic imidazolate frameworks-8 (ZIF-8) as a scaffold. This study aims to investigate the chemo-photothermal therapeutic potential of ZIF-8@ICG@Tax nanoparticles (NPs) in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). An “all-in-one” theranostic ZIF-8@ICG@Tax NPs was conducted by self-assembly based on electrostatic interaction. First, the photothermal effect, stability, pH responsiveness, drug release, and blood compatibility of ZIF-8@ICG@Tax were evaluated through in vitro testing. Furthermore, the hepatic and renal toxicity of ZIF-8@ICG@Tax were assessed through in vivo testing. Additionally, the anticancer effects of these nanoparticles were investigated both in vitro and in vivo. Uniform and stable chemo-photothermal ZIF-8@ICG@Tax NPs had been successfully synthesized and had outstanding drug releasing capacities. Moreover, ZIF-8@ICG@Tax NPs showed remarkable responsiveness dependent both on pH in the tumor microenvironment and NIR irradiation, allowing for targeted drug delivery and controlled drug release. NIR irradiation can enhance the tumor cell response to ZIF-8@ICG@Tax uptake, thereby promoting the anti-tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. ZIF-8@ICG@Tax and NIR irradiation have demonstrated remarkable synergistic anti-tumor growth properties compared to their individual components. This novel theranostic chemo-photothermal NPs hold great potential as a viable treatment option for NSCLC.Graphical A novel nano-theranostic platform was developed by encapsulating indocyanine green and paclitaxel within a zeolitie imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8). This chemo-phototherapic agent demonstrated accurate tumor targeting and effective suppression effects on both tumor growth in non-small cell lung cancer.

Polymeric nanotheranostics for solid tumor management: Recent developments and global regulatory landscape

AbstractPolymeric nanotheranostics have emerged as promising vehicles for diagnosis‐cum‐targeted therapy in solid tumors, offering precise delivery of therapeutic agents at the site of solid tumors and minimizing systemic side effects. This article summarizes the latest developments in using polymeric nanoparticles for specific treatment strategies in solid tumors. It explores the various methods these nanoparticles utilize for targeted medication delivery. This includes passive targeting through the amplified permeability and retention effect, active targeting via interactions between ligands and receptors, and stimuli‐responsive release mechanisms such as pH, temperature, and enzymatic triggers. Furthermore, we highlight recent developments in stimuli‐responsive polymeric nanoparticles, which enable controlled drug release in response to specific cues in the tumor microenvironment, thus enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Also, we focus on the theranostic polymeric nanoparticles, which are used for diagnosing and treating solid tumors. We discuss critical regulatory considerations and the regulatory bodies of different countries that regulate nanomedicines' safety, efficacy, quality, and manufacturing processes. Overall, this review provides insights into the latest innovations in polymeric nanoparticles for targeted therapy in solid tumors, elucidating their mechanisms of action, stimuli‐responsive properties, and regulatory pathways, which collectively contribute to developing effective and safe nanomedicines for cancer treatment.

Intrabacterial Nitroreductase‐Activated Imaging and Persistently Illuminated Photodynamic Therapy for Intracellular Infection Theranostics

AbstractIntracellular bacterial (ICB) infection is one of the most life‐threatening cases of drug resistance, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) is challenged by limited light penetration into tissues and unspecific toxicity to host cells. Herein, theranostic nanoparticles (NPs) are developed to facilitate on‐demand activation of photosensitizers inside ICBs and persistent PDT of deep‐tissue ICB infections. Mechanoluminescent SrAl2O4:Eu2+ and persistence luminescent CaS:Eu2+ are sequentially deposited on mesoporous silica to prepare mSC, followed by encapsulation by bacterial membranes with loaded nitroreductase (NTR)‐activatable methylene blue (nMB) to obtain mSC‐nMB@BM NPs. The fluorescence quenching of nMB with mSC offers few cytotoxicities even under ultrasonication, and bacterial membrane coatings mediate the specific NP internalization into ICB‐infected macrophages. Bacterial pore‐forming toxins trigger nMB release from NPs, and intrabacterial NTR rejuvenates methylene blue probes from nMB for real‐time imaging of ICB infections. Ultrasonication of NPs continuously excites the rejuvenated methylene blue to generate reactive oxidative species and reduce viable ICBs by 3.54 log magnitude folds. NP treatment on ICB‐infected mice exhibits full survival and restores viscera functions without any pathological abnormality. Therefore, this concise NP design demonstrates capabilities of bacterial membrane‐mediated specific internalization, bacterial toxin‐triggered release and intrabacterial NTR‐rejuvenation of fluorescent probes, and persistent internal light‐illumination for ICB theranostics.

HER2 siRNA Facilitated Gene Silencing Coupled with Doxorubicin Delivery: A Dual Responsive Nanoplatform Abrogates Breast Cancer.

The present study investigated the concurrent delivery of antineoplastic drug, doxorubicin, and HER2 siRNA through a targeted theranostic metallic gold nanoparticle designed using polysaccharide, PSP001. The as-synthesized HsiRNA@PGD NPs were characterized in terms of structural, functional, physicochemical, and biological properties. HsiRNA@PGD NPs exposed adequate hydrodynamic size, considerable ζ potential, and excellent drug/siRNA loading and encapsulation efficiency. Meticulous exploration of the biocompatible dual-targeted nanoconjugate exhibited an appealing biocompatibility and pH-sensitive cargo release kinetics, indicating its safety for use in clinics. HsiRNA@PGD NPs deciphered competent cancer cell internalization, enhanced cytotoxicity mediated via the induction of apoptosis, and excellent downregulation of the overexpressing target HER2 gene. Further in vivo explorations in the SKBR3 xenograft breast tumor model revealed the appealing tumor reduction properties, selective accumulation in the tumor site followed by significant suppression of the HER2 gene which contributed to the exclusive abrogation of breast tumor mass by the HsiRNA@PGD NPs. Compared to free drugs or the monotherapy constructs, the dual delivery approach produced a synergistic suppression of breast tumors both in vitro and in vivo. Hence the drawings from these findings implicate that the as-synthesized HsiRNA@PGD NPs could offer a promising platform for chemo-RNAi combinational breast cancer therapy.

Tumor versus Tumor Cell Targeting in Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Cancer Theranostics.

The application of metal-based nanoparticles (mNPs) in cancer therapy and diagnostics (theranostics) has been a hot research topic since the early days of nanotechnology, becoming even more relevant in recent years. However, the clinical translation of this technology has been notably poor, with one of the main reasons being a lack of understanding of the disease and conceptual errors in the design of mNPs. Strikingly, throughout the reported studies to date on in vivo experiments, the concepts of "tumor targeting" and "tumor cell targeting" are often intertwined, particularly in the context of active targeting. These misconceptions may lead to design flaws, resulting in failed theranostic strategies. In the context of mNPs, tumor targeting can be described as the process by which mNPs reach the tumor mass (as a tissue), while tumor cell targeting refers to the specific interaction of mNPs with tumor cells once they have reached the tumor tissue. In this review, we conduct a critical analysis of key challenges that must be addressed for the successful targeting of either tumor tissue or cancer cells within the tumor tissue. Additionally, we explore essential features necessary for the smart design of theranostic mNPs, where 'smart design' refers to the process involving advanced consideration of the physicochemical features of the mNPs, targeting motifs, and physiological barriers that must be overcome for successful tumor targeting and/or tumor cell targeting.

Smart Multifunctional Nanoparticles in Cancer Theranostics: Progress and Prospect.

Worldwide, cancer is the second most common cause of death. Chemotherapy and other traditional cancer treatments have toxicities that affect normal cells in addition to their intended targets, necessitating the development of novel approaches to enhance cell-specific targeting. The present work summarizes the scientific information on nanoparticles in cancer theranostics to provide a comprehensive insight into the preventive and therapeutic potential of nanoparticles in cancer. Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases are searched to collect all the recent (2015-2023) scientific information on smart multifunctional nanoparticles using the terms nanotechnology, cancer theranostics, and polymer. The use of nanomaterials as chemical biology tools in cancer theranostics has been thoroughly investigated. They demonstrate expanded uses in terms of stability, biocompatibility, and enhanced cell permeability, enabling precision targeting and ameliorating the drawbacks of conventional cancer treatments. The nano platform presents a fascinating chance to acquire multifunctionality and targeting techniques. The production of smart nanomaterials, specifically with regard to the advent of nanotechnology, has revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The capability of nanoparticles to functionalize with a variety of biosubstrates, including aptamers, antibodies, DNA, and RNA, and their broad surface area allow them to encapsulate a huge number of molecules, contributing to their theranostic effect. Comparatively speaking, economical, easily produced, and less toxic nanomaterials formed from biological sources are thought to have benefits over those made using conventional processes. The present study highlights the uses of several nanoparticles (NPs), and describes numerous cancer theranostics methodologies. The benefits and difficulties preventing their adoption in cancer treatment and diagnostic applications are also critically reviewed. The use of smart nanomaterials, according to this review's findings, can considerably advance cancer theranostics and open up new avenues for tumor detection and treatment.

NIR-II Absorbed Dithienopyrrole-Benzobisthiadiazole Based Nanosystems for Autophagy Inhibition and Calcium Overload Enhanced Photothermal Therapy.

Although the current cancer photothermal therapy (PTT) can produce a powerful therapeutic effect, tumor cells have been proved a protective mechanism through autophagy. In this study, a novel hybrid theranostic nanoparticle (CaCO3@CQ@pDB NPs, CCD NPs) is designed and prepared by integrating a second near-infrared (NIR-II) absorbed conjugated polymer DTP-BBT (pDB), CaCO3, and autophagy inhibitor (chloroquine, CQ) into one nanosystem. The conjugated polymer pDB with asymmetric donor-acceptor structure shows strong NIR-II absorbing capacity, of which the optical properties and photothermal generation mechanism of pDB are systematically analyzed via molecular theoretical calculation. Under NIR-II laser irradiation, pDB-mediated PTT can produce powerful killing ability to tumor cells. At the same time, heat stimulates a large amount of Ca2+ inflow, causing calcium overload induced mitochondrial damage and enhancing the apoptosis of tumor cells. Besides, the released CQ blocks the self-protection mechanism of tumor cells and greatly enhances the attack of PTT and calcium overload therapy. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments confirm that CCD NPs possess excellent NIR-II theranostic capacity, which provides a new nanoplatform for anti-tumor therapy and builds great potential for future clinical research.

Targeting macrophages with multifunctional nanoparticles to detect and prevent atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Despite the emergence of novel diagnostic, pharmacological, interventional, and prevention strategies, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Nanoparticle (NP)-based platforms encompass diverse imaging, delivery, and pharmacological properties that provide novel opportunities for refining diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for atherosclerosis at the cellular and molecular levels. Macrophages play a critical role in atherosclerosis and therefore represent an important disease-related diagnostic and therapeutic target, especially given their inherent ability for passive and active NP uptake. In this review, we discuss an array of inorganic, carbon-based, and lipid-based NPs that provide magnetic, radiographic, and fluorescent imaging capabilities for a range of highly promising research and clinical applications in atherosclerosis. We discuss the design of NPs that target a range of macrophage-related functions such as lipoprotein oxidation, cholesterol efflux, vascular inflammation, and defective efferocytosis. We also provide examples of NP systems that were developed for other pathologies such as cancer and highlight their potential for repurposing in cardiovascular disease. Finally, we discuss the current state of play and the future of theranostic NPs. Whilst this is not without its challenges, the array of multifunctional capabilities that are possible in NP design ensures they will be part of the next frontier of exciting new therapies that simultaneously improve the accuracy of plaque diagnosis and more effectively reduce atherosclerosis with limited side effects.

Designing Green Synthesis-Based Silver Nanoparticles for Antimicrobial Theranostics and Cancer Invasion Prevention.

Researchers are increasingly favouring the use of biological resources in the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles. This synthesis process is quick and affordable. The current study examined the antibacterial and anticancer effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) derived from the Neurada procumbens plant. Biomolecules derived from natural sources can be used to coat AgNPs to make them biocompatible. UV-Vis spectroscopy was used to verify the synthesis of AgNPs from Neurada procumbens plant extract, while transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to characterize their morphology, crystalline structure, stability, and coating. UV-visible spectrum of AgNPs shows an absorption peak at 422 nm, indicating the isotropic nature of these nanoparticles. As a result of the emergence of a transmission peak at 804.53 and 615.95 cm-1 in the spectrum of the infrared light emitted by atoms in a sample, FTIR spectroscopy demonstrated that the Ag stretching vibration mode is metal-oxygen (M-O). Electron dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectral analysis shows that elementary silver has a peak at 3 keV. Irradiating the silver surface with electrons, photons, or laser beams triggers the illumination. The emission peak locations have been found between 300 and 550 nm. As a result of DLS analysis, suspended particles showed a bimodal size distribution, with their Z-average particle size being 93.38 nm. The findings showed that the antibacterial action of AgNPs was substantially (p≤0.05) more evident against Gramme-positive strains (S. aureus and B. cereus) than E. coli. The biosynthesis of AgNPs is an environmentally friendly method for making nanostructures that have antimicrobial and anticancer properties.

Drug-loaded polymer-coated silver nanoparticles for lung cancer theranostics.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in cancer across the globe. To minimize these deaths, the replacement of traditional chemotherapy with novel strategies is significant. We have developed a nanotheranostic approach using silver nanoparticles for imaging and treatment. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are fabricated by chemical reduction method. The formulation of AgNPs was confirmed by different characterization techniques like stability test, UV-Visible spectroscopy, Confocal Raman Spectroscopy, and Energy-Dispersive X-ray analysis. Further, AgNPs are coated with poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and then loaded with paclitaxel(Pac). Then the drug-loaded PLGA-coated AgNPs were characterized for size and zeta potential measurement by zetasizer, surface morphology study by atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and release kinetics study. The imaging and anticancer properties of these nanoformulations are investigated using lung cancer cell lines. The results proved that the particles are in the nanometer range with smooth surface morphology. Moreover, the drug-loaded NPs showed a sustained release of the drug for a longer period of time. Further the formulations showed imaging property with greater anticancer efficacy. Thus, the results suggest the effective use of these nanoformulation in both lung cancer imaging and treatment using a simple and efficient approach.