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Among the potent anticancer agents, methotrexate (MTX) is very effective against many different types of cancer cells. Implementation of chemotherapy along with radiotherapy, known as synchronous chemoradiotherapy, can augment the treatment efficacy. In the present study self‐assembled MTX conjugated mPEG‐PCL copolymer encapsulating gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) hybrid (mPEG‐PCL‐MTX@Au) was developed as both drug carrier and radiosensitizer. After successful synthesis and characterization of hybrids with different techniques such as hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (HNMR), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet–visible (UV‐Vis), x‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The anticancer activity of designed system was evaluated with a series of biological assays. TEM image indicate that AuNPs encapsulated by self‐assembled mPEG‐PCL‐MTX NPs. It was found that the micelle of that shown in the TEM image contains nine gold nanoparticles (NPs). The hydrodynamic diameter of mPEG‐PCL‐MTX@Au was 81.40 ± 8 nm. As a result, at acidic pH, which simulates tumor tissue, the most drug release is done compared to neutral pH conditions, which are the physiological conditions of the body. About 70% of the drug was released in acidic pH, while in alkaline pH, it was about 35%. The effectiveness of cancer treatment was significantly improved by using developed NPs, which introduces simultaneous chemotherapy and radiotherapy. MTT and apoptosis assays show that the mPEG‐PCL‐MTX@Au as the final formulation improves the radiosensitivity of the 4T1 breast cancer cells and also remarkably kills breast cancer. Furthermore, the result revealed that designed hybrid system extremely able to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cancer cells. These results offer powerful evidence for the potential capability of mPEG‐PCL‐MTX@Au in radiosensitization of malignant tumors and opens up a new avenue of research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have the potential to serve as delivery systems for medicinal substances and gene treatments, particularly in cancer treatment. Co-delivery of curcumin (CUR) and Methotrexate (MTX) has shown promise in cancer treatment, as it uses fewer drugs and has fewer side effects. This study used MTX-conjugated albumin (BSA)-based nanoparticles (BSA-MTX) to enhance and assess the efficiency of CUR. In-vitro cytotoxicity tests, DLS, TEM, FTIR, UV/Vis, SEM, and DSC studies assessed the formulations' physical and chemical properties. The Proteinase K enzyme was used to severe amidic linkages between MTX and BSA. The findings demonstrated the efficacy of using ƒ-MWCNT-CUR-BSA-MTX as a vehicle for efficient co-delivery of CUR and MTX in cancer treatment. The MTT colorimetric method was used to evaluate the effect of chemical and medicinal compounds. Cell division was studied using the MTT method to investigate the effect of pure MWCNT, pure CUR, MTX-BSA, and ƒ-MWCNT-CUR-MTX-BSA. Studies on cell lines have shown that the combination of curcumin and MTX with CNT can increase and improve the effectiveness of both drugs against cancer. A combination of drugs curcumin and methotrexate simultaneously had a synergistic effect on MCF-7 cells, which indicated that these drugs could potentially be used as a strategy for both prevention and treatment of breast cancer. Also, ƒ-MWCNT-CUR-MTX-BSA was found to have a significant effect on cancer treatment with minimal toxicity compared to pure curcumin, pure MTX-BSA, MTX, and ƒ-MWCNT alone. Unique properties such as a high ratio of specific surface area to volume, high chemical stability, chemical adsorption ability, high capacity of drug and biomolecules of carbon nanotubes, as well as multiple drug loading at the same time The combination of ƒ-MWCNT-CUR-BSA MTX significantly impacts cancer therapy), are desirable as an alternative option for targeted drug delivery and high therapeutic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among all the cancers, colorectal cancer (CRC) has the third mortality rank in both genders. Cancer vaccines have shown promising results in boosting patients' immune systems to fight cancer. Using the IEDB database, we predicted mouse MHC‐I (H2‐Ld) binding epitopes from four tumor‐associated antigens (APC, KRAS, TP53, and PIK3CA) and designed a multi‐epitope vaccine. We expressed the candidate vaccine and encapsulated it into the cationic micelle with polyethyleneimine conjugated to oleic acid as its building blocks. We studied tumor inhibition effect, cytokine production, and lymphocyte proliferation in the mouse CRC model after vaccination. Our finding illustrated significant tumor growth inhibition in mouse models treated with the candidate nanovaccine. Besides the significant release of IFN‐γ and IL‐4 by immunized mouse spleen T‐lymphocytes, T‐cell proliferation assay results confirmed effective immune response after the vaccination. These results demonstrate the potential therapeutic effects of nanovaccines and could be a possible approach to CRC immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, Fe3O4/GO and Fe3O4/ZnO/GO nanocomposites (NPs) synthesized by thermal treatment at 823 K, and their drug delivery properties for curcumin (CUR) as an anticancer drug were investigated. The structural, morphological, and magnetic properties of these Nps were studied. The results of XRD, FTIR and EDX analyses indicated the synthesis of pure and crystalline structures of GO, Fe3O4/GO and Fe3O4/ZnO/GO NPs. Moreover, the mean size of spherical shape in Fe3O4/GO and Fe3O4/ZnO/GO nanoparticles was 42.36 and 53.21 nm, respectively. Based on the results of release and loading at different pHs, the drug is well loaded on the NPs and released at the tumor site. Based on these studies, the drug loading percentage on Fe3O4/GO is higher than Fe3O4/ZnO/GO. Also, the results showed that 41.65% of the drug is released from Fe3O4/GO and 23.43% from Fe3O4/ZnO/GO in the first ten hours after being in the cancer cell site. The Hemolysis test of prepared NPs and the cytotoxicity of NCs and CUR-loaded on NCs against U87 cancer cells and fibroblast human cells were investigated using the MTT assay. The toxic effect of Fe3O4/GO and of Fe3O4/ZnO/GO was more in U87 cancer cells compared to normal fibroblast cells. The results of anticancer activity of Nano-carriers on brain cancer cell lines revealed that CUR-loaded nanocrystals (NCs) have significant cytotoxicity activity on U87. Therefore, these NCs are capable of acting as drug delivery systems for anti-cancer drugs like CUR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To conquer the low water solubility and bioavailability of curcumin (CUR), to corroborate its functional qualities and to broaden its applicability in the pharmaceutical sector, numerous nanoscale methods have been widely exploited for its administration. Because of its polycystic, biodegradable, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and non-allergenic properties, bovine serum albumin (BSA) and glycine (Gly) have been actively investigated as natural biopolymers for decades. Various BSA and Gly-based nanocarriers with unique features for CUR delivery, such as magnetic ferrite nanoparticles, are being developed (MNPs). In this work, magnesium ferrite (MgFe2O4)/BSA and nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4)/Gly nanocomposites loaded with CUR (drug model) were manufactured for the first time using a chemical co-precipitation approach to create biocompatible drug nanocarriers. It was found that the synthesized MgFe2O4/BSA and NiFe2O4/Gly nanoparticles have a uniform particle distribution and their size is much less than 100 nm. Saturation magnetization in MgFe2O4 and NiFe2O4 reaches 13.07 and 33.4 emu/g the remarkable peak of magnetization decreases to 10.99 and 32.36 emu/g after the addition of polymers. These analyses also showed the presence of chemical bonds in the structure of the nanocomposite. The curcumin diffusion process in NPs were determined using a mathematical modeling. The yielding of the product for MgFe2O4/BSA and NiFe2O4/Gly in 200 h is about 72 and 63%, respectively. Also, regressed relative diffusivities (D/R2), including effective steric hindrance, were determined as 5.75 × 10-4 and 2.72 × 10-4 h-1 for MgFe2O4/BSA and NiFe2O4/Gly, respectively. It shows that there is a significant steric barrier that significantly deviates from the molecular diffusion of the liquid. As a result, the low effective release of curcumin in the particles is more noticeable. Our study demonstrated the effective relationship between the polymer architecture and the biophysical properties of the resulting nanoparticles and shed light on new approaches for the design of efficient NP-based drug carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the traditional radiotherapy obstacles, and also to enhance the radiation therapy efficacy various radiosensitizers have been developed. Radiosensitizers are promising agents that under X-ray irradiation enhance injury to tumor tissue by accelerating DNA damage. In this report, silver-silver sulfide nanoparticles (Ag-Ag2S NPs) were synthesized via a facile, one-pot and environmentally friendly biomineralization method. Ag-Ag2S was coated with bovine serum albumin (BSA) in situ and applied as an X-ray sensitizer to enhance the efficiency of radiotherapy. Also, folic acid (FA) was conjugated to Ag-Ag2S@BSA to impart active targeting capability to the final formulation (Ag-Ag2S@BSA-FA). Prepared NPs were characterized by transmission electron microscopes (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques. Results show that most of the NPs have well-defined uniform Janus structures. The biocompatibility of the NPs was then evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. A series of in vitro assays were performed on 4T1 cancer cells to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of the designed NPs. In addition, the radio-enhancing ability of the NPs was tested on the 4T1 breast cancer murine model. MTT, live and dead cell staining, apoptosis, ROS generation, and clonogenic in vitro assays demonstrated the efficacy of NPs as radiosensitizers in radiotherapy. In vivo results as well as H&E staining tumor tissues confirmed tumor destruction in the group that received Ag-Ag2S@BSA-FA NPs and exposed to X-ray. The results showed that prepared tumor-targeted Ag-Ag2S@BSA-FA NPs could be potential candidates as radiosensitizers for enhanced radiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a type of the central nervous system malignancy and considered as the most lethal and aggressive primary brain tumor. Adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) along with temozolomide (TMZ) is considered as the standard treatment regimen for GBM. However, implementation of RT in tumor suppression is frequently accompanied by several side effects. Additionally, dose limitation and radioresistance are other major drawbacks associated with radiation therapy. To this end, nanoradioenhancer/or nanoradiosensitizer based on high-Z metallic elements has emerged as a powerful treatment modality in GBM therapy. In this study, CuFe2O4 decorated with BSA nanoplatforms (CuFe2O4 @BSA) was fabricated to improve the theraputics potential of RT through sensitizing the U-87 GBM cells to X-ray radiation. The characterization techniques such as FTIR, XRD, EDS and UV–Vis spectroscopy confirmed successful fabrication of CuFe2O4 @BSA radioenhancer, while also TEM images indicated the prepared nanoradiosensitizers are uniform, homogenous, and spherical with an average size of about 5 nm. In vitro hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility of developed CuFe2O4 @BSA nanoradiosensitizers were also investigated by hemolysis and MTT assay, respectively. The merits of CuFe2O4 @BSA nanoplatforms in sensitizing the U-87 cells to the ionizing radiation were also exploited using intracellular ROS generation and MTT assay. It was found that CuFe2O4 @BSA nanoradiosensitizers did not cause any deleterious effects on primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) of which the cell viability of all treated group was beyond 95%, endorsing the cytocompatibility and safety of these nanoplatforms for further assessment. Hemolysis assay also confirms the biosafety of CuFe2O4 @BSA nanoradiosensitizers, exhibiting no significant toxicity against human red blood cells in which the degree of hemolysis was less than 4%. In vitro cancer radiotherapy also demonstrated that the cell viability of U-87 GBM was considerably decreased once co-modality of X-ray and CuFe2O4 @BSA nanoradiosensitizers were used simultaneously. Radiosensitizing ability of these nanoparticles was also proved by intracellular ROS generation, of which implementation of CuFe2O4 @BSA nanoradiosensitizers upon X-ray irradiation resulted in superior ROS production. Overall, these findings provide vital evidence for applicability of prepared CuFe2O4 @BSA nanoradiosensitizers in killing the primary brain tumor cells specifically GBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The improvement of high‐Z‐based metallic nanostructures as radiosensitizers with high monolithicity and versatility by superadditive therapeutic track and the good protective effect is considerable, but they are limited by some problems such as nonideal selectivity for the target tissue. In this study, nanosystems were developed to enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy and reduce cancer cell survival based on innovative gold (Au) functionalized oxygen‐single‐walled carbon nanotubes (O‐SWCNTs). We illustrate the use of folic acid (FA) as a targeting agent and bovine serum albumin (BSA) to stabilize the physiological environment and increase durability. The physical and chemical properties of the nanosystems were evaluated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet–visible (UV–Visible), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) techniques. Finally, the MTT assay was used to investigate the therapeutic effects of nanoparticles in the 4 T1 mouse breast cancer model in the presence and absence of X‐rays. So, the cancer cells experienced a more effective reduction in survival after receiving O‐SWCNTs‐Au‐BSA‐FA + 8 Gy than O‐SWCNTs‐BSA, Au‐BSA‐FA, and O‐SWCNTs‐Au‐BSA + 8 Gy groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the traditional radiotherapy obstacles, and also to enhance the radiation therapy efficacy various radiosensitizers have been developed. Radiosensitizers are promising agents that under X-ray irradiation enhance injury to tumor tissue by accelerating DNA damage. In this report, silver-silver sulfide nanoparticles (Ag-Ag2S NPs) were synthesized via a facile, one-pot and environmentally friendly biomineralization method. Ag-Ag2S was coated with bovine serum albumin (BSA) in situ and applied as an X-ray sensitizer to enhance the efficiency of radiotherapy. Also, folic acid (FA) was conjugated to Ag-Ag2S@BSA to impart active targeting capability to the final formulation (Ag-Ag2S@BSA-FA). Prepared NPs were characterized by transmission electron microscopes (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques. Results show that most of the NPs have well-defined uniform Janus structures. The biocompatibility of the NPs was then evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. A series of in vitro assays were performed on 4T1 cancer cells to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of the designed NPs. In addition, the radio-enhancing ability of the NPs was tested on the 4T1 breast cancer murine model. MTT, live and dead cell staining, apoptosis, ROS generation, and clonogenic in vitro assays demonstrated the efficacy of NPs as radiosensitizers in radiotherapy. In vivo results as well as H&E staining tumor tissues confirmed tumor destruction in the group that received Ag-Ag2S@BSA-FA NPs and exposed to X-ray. The results showed that prepared tumor-targeted Ag-Ag2S@BSA-FA NPs could be potential candidates as radiosensitizers for enhanced radiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of conventional chemotherapy regardless of its unique effectiveness have been gradually being edged aside due to limited targeting capability, lack of selectivity and chemotherapy-associated side effects. To this end, colon-targeted nanoparticles via combination therapy have shown great therapeutic potential against cancer. Herein, pH/enzyme-responsive biocompatible polymeric nanohydrogels based on poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) containing methotrexate (MTX) and chloroquine (CQ) were fabricated. PMAA-MTX-CQ exhibited high drug loading capacity of which MTX was 4.99% and was CQ 25.01% and displayed pH/enzyme-triggered drug release behavior. Higher CQ release rate (76%) under simulated acidic microenvironment of tumor tissue whereas 39% of CQ was released under normal physiological conditions. Intestinally, MTX release was facilitated in the presence of proteinase K enzyme. TEM image demonstrated spherical morphology with particle size of less than 50 nm. In vitro and in vivo toxicity assessments indicated that developed nanoplatforms possessed great biocompatibility. These nanohydrogels did not cause any adverse effects against Artemia Salina and HFF2 cells (around 100% cell viability) which highlight the safety of prepared nanohydrogels. There was no death in mice received different concentrations of nanohydrogel through oral administration and less than 5% hemolysis was found in red blood cells incubated with PMAA nanohydrogels. In vitro anti-cancer results showed that combination therapy based on PMAA-MTX-CQ can effectively suppress the growth of SW480 colon cancer cells (29% cell viability) compared to monotherapy. Altogether, these findings suggest that pH/enzyme-responsive PMAA-MTX-CQ could effectively inhibit cancer cell growth and progression via site-specific delivery of its cargo in a safe and controlled manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Multi-wall carbon Nanotube surface-based functional nanoparticles for stimuli-responsive dual pharmaceutical compound delivery" published in Scientific Reports. The correction addresses an error in Figure 4 of the original article, where the drug release chart had incorrect labeling. Additionally, there was an error in the affiliation of one of the authors, which has been corrected. The corrected version of the article is now available. [Extracted from the article]

In recent years, various types of radiosensitizers have been developed to address the challenges of cancer radiotherapy. Here, platinum-functionalized oxygenated single-walled carbon nanotubes (O-SWCNTs-Pt) coated with folic acid (FA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) (O-SWCNTs-Pt-BSA-FA) were synthesized, characterized, and used as radiosensitizers to improve the therapeutic efficacy of X-rays in a mouse model of breast cancer (4T1) in vitro. The nanosensitizer was characterized by different techniques, such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet–visible (UV-visible), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry. The evaluation of cell viability with nanocarriers O-SWCNTs-BSA, O-SWCNTs-Pt-BSA, Pt-BSA-FA, and O-SWCNTs-Pt-BSA-FA is reported at the concentrations of 10, 30, and 90 μg/mL by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay in the presence and absence of X-rays at 4 and 8 Gy. The results showed that administration of O-SWCNTs-BSA, O-SWCNTs-Pt-BSA, Pt-BSA-FA, and O-SWCNTs-Pt-BSA-FA + 8 Gy at a concentration of 90 μg/mL reduced survival by 75.31, 65.32, 67.35, and 60.35%, respectively. O-SWCNTs-Pt-BSA-FA has a hydrodynamic size of 88.57 nm and a surface charge of −29 mV, which indicates special stability. Compared with O-SWCNTs-BSA, O-SWCNTs-Pt-BSA, and Pt-BSA-FA, it has very strong cell-killing activity in the 4T1 cell line. It is also noteworthy that SWCNTs can act as a controlled release and delivery system for PtNPs due to their unique properties and easy penetration into biological membranes. As a result, the new nanosensitizer may play a role in cancer treatment in conjunction with radiotherapy technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Quorum sensing (QS) is a density-dependent chemical process of cell-to-cell communication in which certain signals are activated, leading to the coordination of pathogenic behaviors and the regulation of virulence in bacteria. Inhibition of QS can prevent biofilm formation and reduce virulence behaviors of bacteria. Herein, bovine serum albumin (BSA)-coated silver nanoparticles (NPs) (Ag–Ag2S@BSA NPs) were synthesized and studied as an anti-QS agent. Materials & methods: Ag–Ag2S NPs prepared through a BSA-mediated biomineralization process under ambient aqueous conditions and their physicochemical properties were characterized. The anti-QS activity of the resulting BSA-coated NPs (Ag–Ag2S@BSA NPs) was investigated for the first time. Results & conclusion: The result confirmed the potential of Ag–Ag2S@BSA NPs as novel and useful therapeutic tools for antibacterial purposes. The overuse of antibiotics has caused the development of drug-resistant strains of bacteria. Nowadays, drug resistance is one of the main challenges in the treatment and prevention of microbial diseases. In general, many bacterial species communicate with each other through a population-dependent mechanism called quorum sensing to control their physiological activities. Therefore, inhibiting the quorum sensing mechanism is an attractive alternative to antibiotics and also reduces the risk of drug resistance, and this can be achieved by nanoparticles (NPs). Among these nanostructures, Ag NPs have received particular attention due to their antimicrobial, antibiofilm, anticancer and antioxidant properties. Herein, we report a method that applies a BSA-guided green and one-pot approach for achieving Ag–Ag2S NPs as potential antibacterial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discovery of bacterial-derived Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) system has revolutionized genome engineering and gene therapy due to its wide range of applications. One of the major challenging issues in CRISPR/Cas system is the lack of an efficient, safe, and clinically suitable delivery of the system's components into target cells. Here, we describe the development of polyethylenimine coated-bovine serum albumin nanoparticles (BSA-PEI NPs) for efficient delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 system in both DNA (px458 plasmid) and ribonucleoprotein (RNP) forms into MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell line. Our data showed that synthesized BSA-PEI (BP) NPs delivered plasmid px458 at concentrations of 0.15, 0.25, and 0.35 µg/µl with efficiencies of approximately 29.7, 54.8, and 84.1% into MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively. Our study demonstrated that Cas9/sgRNA RNP complex efficiently (~ 92.6%) delivered by BSA-PEI NPs into the same cells. Analysis of toxicity and biocompatibility of synthesized NPs on human red blood cells, MDA-MB-231 cells, and mice showed that the selected concentration (28 µg/µl) of BSA-PEI NPs for transfection had no remarkable toxicity effects. Thus, obtained results suggest BSA-PEI NPs as one of the most promising carrier for delivering CRISPR/Cas9 to target cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the increased incidence and population growth that has been leading to growing number of cases worldwide, early diagnosis and treatment of cancer is crucial. Low density cancer tissue cannot be diagnosed before progressing toward a metastatic stage. Thus, theranostic systems play a significant role in assisting timely diagnosis and treatment. The combination of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) contrast agents in a single probe is of high importance and necessity, where individual strengths of each approach can be merged while shortcomings of each modality could be compensated. With this motivation, we have developed and synthesized Bi2S3@BSA‐Fe3O4 nanoparticles as a dual MRI/CT contrast agent and carrier of curcumin (CUR) as natural anticancer drug. The nanoparticles shortened both the longitudinal (T1) and transverse (T2), MRI relaxation times, with a more distinct effect on producing negative contrast (T2) images with a relaxivity (r2) of 54.73 mM−1 s−1. The magnetite/bismuth hybrid nanoparticle also was capable of increasing CT image contrast. Further, in vitro cytotoxicity assay showed high biocompatibility of the synthesized nanoparticles. Furthermore, in vitro cytotoxicity assay on cancer cells showed high anticancer activity of the synthesized nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nowadays, colored water and, remarkably, wastewaters from dyeing industries are one of the most significant sources of toxic compounds in the environment. On the other hand, waste management and reduction are the most main obstacles governments encounter. Therefore, this study aimed to use waste materials to remove contaminants. Method: First, we pyrolyzed onion peels, added distilled water, and then sonicated the solution. AFM (Atomic force microscopy) analysis determined the characteristics of produced carbon nanosheets. Batch experiments on the synthesized carbon nanosheets implemented adsorption studies. The effects of adsorbent dose, pH, dye concentration, and temperature were also evaluated. Results: The isotherm assessments indicated that the data significantly matches the Langmuir model; moreover, the kinetic modeling results showed that the experimental data perfectly matched the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Conclusion: Synthesized carbon nanosheets from onion peel as a low-cost adsorbent with good properties; not only are eco-friendly materials that can significantly reduce solid waste generation, but they are efficient adsorbents for methylene blue removal from aquatic solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is known as a pathogen with antibiotic resistance, causing respiratory infections. PLGA has been approved for use in vaccines as well as drug delivery. This study was performed to evaluate PLGA nanoparticles containing the outer membrane proteins (OMPs) of A. baumannii in stimulating the mice's immune system and improving pneumonia. Experimental approach: Double emulsion solvent evaporation technique was used. The properties of the obtained nanospheres were determined using a zetasizer, FTIR, and AFM devices. Nanoparticles were administered to mice BALB/c by applying the intramuscular route. ELISA was used to measure the amounts of immunoglobulins produced; also, an opsonophagocytic killing assay was used to measure the effectiveness of immunoglobulins. Immunized mice were then challenged with live A. baumannii through the lungs; their internal organs were also removed for bacteriological studies. Findings/Results: The prepared particles were 550 nm in diameter with a negative surface charge. The production of the OMPs specific IgG was much higher in the group receiving nanoparticles containing antigen as compared to those getting pure antigen. The immunoglobulins produced against nanoparticles were superior to those developed against pure antigens. Mice that received the new nanovaccine were more resistant to pneumonia caused by this bacterium than those that received pure antigen. Conclusion and implication: Overall, it can be said that PLGA nanoparticles could deliver their internal antigens (OMPs) well to the immune system of mice and stimulate humoral immunity in these animals, thus protecting them against pneumonia caused by A. baumannii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the present investigation was to develop niosomes containing both curcumin (CUR) and methotrexate (MTX). Also, the combinational effect of CUR and MTX in both free and niosomal forms on growth inhibition potential and induction of apoptosis in the HCT-116 cell line were exploited. Materials & methods: Niosomes were prepared by the thin-film hydration method and their physicochemical properties were determined by various techniques. Cellular uptake, cell apoptosis, wound healing and MTT assay were conducted to ascertain niosomes' feasibility for cancer therapy. Results: The combination of CUR and MTX in niosomal formulation showed more toxicity than their combination in free form. Conclusion: The nanocarrier-based approach was effective for the codelivery of CUR and MTX against cancer cells in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To prepare a novel hybrid system for the controlled release and delivery of curcumin (CUR). Methods: A method for the ultrasound-assisted fabrication of protein-modified nanosized graphene oxide-like carbon-based nanoparticles (CBNPs) was developed. After being modified with bovine serum albumin (BSA), CUR was loaded onto the synthesized hybrid (labeled CBNPs@BSA–CUR). The structure and properties of the synthesized nanoparticles were elucidated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) methods. Results: CBNPs@BSA–CUR showed pH sensitivity and were calculated as controlled CUR release behavior. The drug-free system exhibited good biocompatibility and was nontoxic. However, CBNPs@BSA–CUR showed acceptable antiproliferative ability against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Conclusion: CBNPs@BSA–CUR could be considered a highly promising nontoxic nanocarrier for the delivery of CUR with good biosafety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this project, a biocompatible block copolymer including poly ethylene glycol and poly caprolactone was synthesized using ring-opening reaction. Then, the copolymer was conjugated to folic acid using lysine as a linker. Also, curcumin (CUR) was used as a therapeutic anticancer agent. Nanoprecipitation method was used to prepare CUR-loaded polymeric micelles. Different methods including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) were used to characterize the prepared nanocarriers (NCs). MTT assay and hemolysis assay were used to evaluate in vitro anticancer efficiency and biocompatibility of the prepared NCs, respectively. The results proved efficiency of NCs as a drug delivery system (DDS) in various aspects such as physicochemical properties and biocompatibility. Also, in vivo results showed that NCs did not show any severe weight loss and side effects on mice, and the anti-cancer study results of the CUR-loaded NCs proved that the conjugation of folic acid on the surface of NCs as a targeting agent could increase the therapeutic efficacy of CUR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel coronavirus or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes severe respiratory infectious disease, known as coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). Over the past few months, a considerable rise in the incidence rate and prevalence of COVID-19 infection have been witnessed. Considering the high disease burden and rapid spread of the COVID-19 and no effective treatment is currently existing, stem cells, engineered nanobiomaterials, natural killer cells based therapy, RNA metabolites and extracellular vesicles are promising alternatives to tackle devastating epidemic. This review spotlights the applications and potential of above-mentioned methods in the treatment of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of highly integrated multifunctional nanomaterials with a superadditive therapeutic effect and good safety is an urgent but challenging task in cancer therapy research. The present study aims to design a nanoplatform that offers the opportunity to enhance antitumor activity while minimizing side effects. Given the Au-mediated X-ray radiation enhancement and the ability of Fe-based nanomaterials to create reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA damage, we anticipated that bimetallic Fe3O4–Au heterodimer would bring strong radiosensitizing capacity. Fe3O4–Au heterodimer surface was covered with bovine serum albumin (BSA) to achieve good surface functionality, stability and prolonged blood circulation. Folic acid (FA) moieties were added to the nanoformulation to increase tumor-homing, specificity and uptake. Finally, curcumin (CUR) was incorporated into the nanoparticle to function as a natural anticancer agent. The integration of all these components has yielded a single nanoplatform, Fe3O4–Au–BSA–FA–CUR, capable of successfully fulfilling the mission of superadditive cancer therapy to avoid the risks of organ removal surgery. The efficacy of the proposed nanoplatform was investigated in vitro and in vivo. High radiosensitizing ability, X-ray-induced ROS generation and DNA damage, and good biocompatibility were demonstrated through in vitro experiments. Also, the administration of Fe3O4–Au–BSA–FA–CUR with X-ray irradiation completely eradicated the tumor without any mortality and toxicity in healthy tissues in vivo. Our results highlight the potential of CUR-loaded Fe3O4–Au–BSA–FA heteronanostructure to enable synergistic localized radiochemotherapy and open up a new door to attractive possibilities that warrant further exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hairy root induction in Plantago lanceolata was optimized to take advantage of transformed root cultures. The highest frequency of transformation was achieved using leaf explant, A4 strain, pre-cultivation of explant, 150 µM Acetosyringone, 5 min inoculation, half-strength Murashige and Skoog basal medium as co-cultivation, and half-strength Gamborg′s basal medium as a selective medium with 3% sucrose. Among the studied compound encompassing gallic acid, catalpol and apigenin, only the production of gallic acid in hairy roots was affected by 20 mg L−1 AgNO3 and 100 mg L−1 chitosan at 24 hr which yielded 7.63, 4.76-fold increase in its content, respectively. The methanolic extracts of hairy roots elicited by 20 mg L−1 AgNO3 exhibited anti-bacterial activity (MIC and MBC = 25 mg mL−1) against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris and Salmonella typhi and anti-bacterial potential of non-elicited hairy roots of P. lanceolata (MIC = 25 mg mL−1 and MBC = 35 mg mL−1) were more active against Klebsiella pneumoniae and P. vulgaris than other bacteria. The methanolic extracts of the P. lanceolata hairy roots demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity on colorectal carcinoma cell line (SW-480) with IC50 = 250.65 ± 6.8 µg mL−1 in comparison to human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) with IC50 = 5263.65 ± 4.6 µg mL−1. Plantago lanceolata hairy roots showed important biological activity explaining its role in traditional medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19, as an emerging infectious disease, has caused significant mortality and morbidity along with socioeconomic impact. No effective treatment or vaccine has been approved yet for this pandemic disease. Cutting-edge tools, especially nanotechnology, should be strongly considered to tackle this virus. This review aims to propose several strategies to design and fabricate effective diagnostic and therapeutic agents against COVID-19 by the aid of nanotechnology. Polymeric, inorganic self-assembling materials and peptide-based nanoparticles are promising tools for battling COVID-19 as well as its rapid diagnosis. This review summarizes all of the exciting advances nanomaterials are making toward COVID-19 prevention, diagnosis and therapy. The emergence of COVID-19 has affected millions of people around the world and has become a serious threat to human life. To date, nanotechnology-based tools have been effective in preclinical studies against a variety of pathogens, including respiratory viruses, herpes virus, human papillomavirus and HIV. Nanoparticles, particles smaller than a micrometer, have drawn particular interest in the management of COVID-19 disease due to their unique properties (easy preparation, low cost, easy modification, appropriate size, etc). Nanotechnology-based strategies for COVID-19 disease management include the development of tools for rapid, accurate and sensitive diagnosis, production of effective disinfectants, delivery of mRNA vaccines into human cells and delivery of antiviral agents into the body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this project, Calcium ferrite/polyvinyl alcohol (CaFe2O4@PVA) nanocarriers were prepared by a thermal-treatment method at three different temperatures (773, 823 and 923 K). The nanocarriers were used as drug delivery systems (DDS) to deliver curcumin (CUR) and were utilized as a new structure for photo dynamic therapy (PDT). Drug loading and release study of CUR were performed and it was observed that nanocarriers showed a pH dependent drug release behavior. MTT assay, Hemolysis assay and lethal dose test were applied to determine the cytotoxicity of nanocarriers. These tests indicated that synthesized nanocarriers can be considered as nontoxic. Also, the photodynamic therapy experiments were performed by two groups: one group of cells were treated by different concentrations of nanocarriers without light and the other group were exposed to light. Then, the efficacy of PDT was determined by MTT and it was revealed that whenever nanocarriers were exposed to light the cytotoxicity was significantly high. Therefore, it was revealed that these nanocarriers are suitable to be utilized as a drug delivery systems and photo dynamic therapy agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, biotin functionalized bovine serum albumin (BSA-biotin) loaded with curcumin (CUR), was synthesized and evaluated as drug carrier. The aim of this study is evaluation of the curcumin induced apoptosis related proteins, Bcl-2 and Bax expression via targeted albumin based nanoparticles. The synthesized BSA-biotin-CUR was characterized by different techniques such as: TEM, UV–Vis, FTIR, and DLS. The loading efficiency of CUR was 7.9%. The result indicates that the particles were measured around 185.4 nm with a zeta potential of -16.8 mV. Cytotoxicity results on mouse mammary tumor cell line (4T1) confirmed that formulated CUR, BSA-biotin-CUR, has high anticancer effect compared to free CUR. Also, real-time PCR method revealed that BSA-biotin-CUR increased Bax protein expression, and also downregulated Bcl-2 protein in 4T1 cells, which proven the ability of synthesized nanoparticles. We suggest that BSA-biotin-CUR can improve therapeutic effect, of CUR so that it can overcome the limitations of CUR with a great potential for further evaluations and applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to: (a) design the versatile microemulsions (MEs) system for drug delivery; (b) use the bovine serum albumin nanoparticles for MEs system development; (c) characterize the physicochemical properties, cytotoxicity, and biocompatibility of the modified MEs (MMEs) system; (d) load of paclitaxel (PTX) and folate conjugate of MEs system; and (e) assess the potential of anticancer activity of MEs system. The physicochemical possessions, in vitro and in vivo cytotoxicity, and stability of MMEs system were characterized. The results of our study show that the MEs system was stable, having narrow particle size distribution, nontoxic, biocompatible, and not active for leukocyte proliferation. So it can be concluded that the MMEs system as a promising candidate for a targeted multifunctional drug delivery system (PTX and folate) that is called a smart MEs system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In The present project, a variety of MnFe2O4 (Mn) and Cr2Fe6O12 (Cr)-based nanocarriers (NCs) were synthesized as photosensitizer and NCs for delivery of chemotherapeutic curcumin (CUR) and provide a new structure for Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). For determining efficiency of NCs release study, MTT assay, lethal dose test and hemolysis assay were carried out. The release study showed the release of CUR from NCs was pH-dependent, but, every NCs had its own behavior for releasing the drug. The data acquired from the release study showed the CUR release from Mn can reach to over 90% at acidic media instead of 41% at neutral media. However, the CUR released from Cr were approximately equal as Cr had equal zeta potential at both media. Hemolysis activity and lethal dose test displayed the cytotoxicity of NCs was neglectable at both in vitro and in vivo study. Also, the results of anti-cancer activity assay (MTT assay) showed that both of Cr and Mn NCs are suitable systems for PDT. Therefore, the results demonstrated that Mn is suitable NCs for PDT and anticancer drugs delivery of therapeutic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) functionalized with methotrexate (MTX)‐conjugated bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a biocompatible drug delivery vehicle were synthesized using a facile method. Characterization of the functionalized MNPs (Fe3O4@BSA‐MTX NPs) was performed using various techniques including UV–visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, vibrating sample magnetometry and X‐ray diffraction. The particle size and zeta potential of Fe3O4@BSA‐MTX NPs were 105.7 ± 3.81 nm (mean ± SD) and −18.2 mV, respectively. MTX release from Fe3O4@BSA‐MTX NPs showed an enzyme‐dependent release pattern. Hemo‐biocompatibility of Fe3O4@BSA‐MTX NPs was confirmed using hemolysis test. In addition, the cytotoxicity of functionalized MNPs and free MTX against MCF‐7 cell line was investigated using MTT assay. The results of experiments revealed that the Fe3O4@BSA‐MTX NPs as a biocompatible carrier could improve the therapeutic effect of MTX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High atomic number Z, nanoparticles are able to enhance the photoelectric and Compton effects under X-Ray irradiation resulting the increase of radiation therapy efficacy. To achieve enhanced radiation therapy, Bi2S3 biocompatible particles coated with bovine serum albumin (BSA) (Bi2S3@BSA HNPs) were prepared through a BSA-mediated biomineralization procedure under green conditions. Then, to achieve improved chemo-radiation therapy against HT-29 cancer cells, curcumin (CUR) as natural anti-cancer therapy agent loaded on the Bi2S3@BSA (Bi2S3@BSA@CUR HNPs). Next, this synthesized nanodrug was evaluated for physical and chemical properties and in vitro cytotoxicity studies. Here, in vitro enhanced chemo-radiation combination therapy power was evaluated against HT-29 cell line under 2 Gy and 6 Gy X-ray irradiation doses. The Bi2S3@BSA HNPs without irradiation rarely affect cell viability which shown the non-toxicity of Bi2S3@BSA HNPs. The result of this study proved that Bi2S3@BSA@CUR HNPs can be used as both proficient vehicles for effective delivery of CUR and radiosensitizer in the treatment of cancer. In addition, the result of this study confirmed that the combination of high Z-element nanoradiosensitizer, Bi2S3@BSA HNPs, with a natural anti-cancer drug, CUR, enhanced therapeutic power against HT-29 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artemisinin is used as an antimalarial and anticancer agent with minimal toxic effects on the host body. Biotin-PEG-PCL polymers have been used for targeted drug delivery to cancer, as well as to improve the pharmacokinetics of the drug and reduce its effects. In this study, biotin-conjugated copolymers were fabricated with polymerization of the ring opening method and the properties of copolymer and nanoparticles were investigated using various techniques. The toxicity of artemisinin and its nanoparticles have been investigated on MCF-7 and normal HFF2 cells. The results showed that the encapsulation efficacy of artemisinin in nanoparticles was 45.5 ± 0.41%. The release profile of the drug indicates that the release is slow and controlled and is approximately pH dependent. The results of artemisinin cell culture on human breast cancer cells showed that biotin-PEG-PCL nanoparticles had an inhibitory effect on MCF-7 cells and had no toxic effects on HFF2 cells. Anticancer activity in vivo in the 4T1 breast cancer model showed that tumour volumes were decreased up 40 mm3 by ART-loaded micelles and 76 mm3 by free ART, compared to the control group (2150 mm). In vivo results showed that this formulation significantly increases the accumulation of substances in the tumours. Therefore, the molecular formulation of ART-based copolymers can be a desirable process for cancer treatment purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we have achieved to provide an efficient method for production of iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with arginine capping using in situ and one‐pot co‐precipitation method. As a novel drug delivery system, methotrexate (MTX) was conjugated to the obtained nanoparticles. These MNPs conjugate can potentially use in controlled drug delivery as carrier, and in magnetic resonance imaging as a contrast agent. Also, these nanoparticles can serve as a target in cancer therapy and diagnosis. These MNPs were covalently bond with MTX and can target the majority of cancer cells that their surfaces overexpressed by folate receptors. These conjugated nanoparticles were obtained through amide bond between the amine groups on their surface and the carboxylic acid end groups on MTX due to being functionalized with arginine. MTX was cleaved from nanoparticles according to drug release experiments in the presence of protease‐like lysosomal conditions. Fe‐Arg‐MTX was characterized by transmission electron microscopes, dynamic light scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Furthermore, vibrating sample magnetometry analysis showed excellent magnetic properties of them. The average particle size of Fe‐Arg‐MTX was approximately 27 nm. The result revealed that the bare nanoparticles have no cytotoxicity against MCF‐7, 4T1, and HFF‐2 cell lines. Hemolysis assay showed that these nanoparticles are biocompatible. Regarding the research success, an efficient technique can be presented for drug delivery and controlled release and for studying cancer‐fighting in alive creature's bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we synthesized methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(ε-caprolactone) diblock copolymers as water soluble nanocarriers to investigate the in vivo anti-inflammatory characteristic of rosuvastatin-loaded nanocarriers. For determining the structure of prepared nanocarriers, we used proton nuclear magnetic resonance, gel permeation chromatography, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and dynamic scanning calorimetry method. Nano-precipitation method was used for loading of rosuvastatin into copolymeric nanocarriers. The goal of this study is investigation of the anti-inflammatory effects of rosuvastatin-loaded nanocarriers in comparison with indomethacin. The paw edema thickness was measured during 4 h after gavage of nanocarriers in acute inflammation-induced rats, and the ability of nanocarriers to inhibit the edema was calculated. Rosuvastatin was loaded in nanocarriers with a loading capacity of 9.38 ± 0.96% and an encapsulation efficiency of 62.50 ± 0.84%; moreover, rosuvastatin and rosuvastatin nanocarriers displayed considerable anti-inflammatory activity in this study. This study indicated that rosuvastatin and rosuvastatin nanocarriers have anti-inflammatory characteristic and we can conclude that in addition to lipid lowering affect, statins have potential for anti-inflammatory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In this study, methoxy poly (ethylene glycol)-poly (ε-caprolactone) (mPEG–PCL) di-block copolymers were synthesized. The purpose of this work is to investigate the in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of simvastatin-loaded micelles. Methods: The structure of synthesized copolymers was characterized by using HNMR, FTIR, and GPC techniques. Simvastatin was encapsulated in micelles through a single-step nano-precipitation method, leading to the formation of simvastatin-loaded mPEG–PCL (simvastatin-mPEG–PCL) micelles. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of simvastatin/mPEG–PCL micelles versus indomethacin were investigated in acute inflammation-induced rats. The paw edema thickness was measured 1, 2, 3, and 4 h after injection of formulation. The inhibition of edema in various groups were calculated and reported by percentages. Results: The results showed that the zeta potential of micelles was about −14.9 ± 0.47 mV and the average size was in range of 66.10 ± 0.34 nm. Simvastatin was encapsulated in mPEG–PCL micelles with a loading capacity of 9.63 ± 0.87% and an encapsulation efficiency of 64.20 ± 0.79%. Simvastatin and simvastatin-mPEG–PCL micelles showed significant anti-inflammatory activity in the present study. Conclusions: This study revealed that simvastatin and simvastatin/mPEG–PCL micelles both have anti-inflammatory effects and suggested that statins have potential anti-inflammatory activity along with their lipid lowering properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study the effect of nanodiamond (ND) on the adsorption capacity of Drug has been investigated. Thermal oxidation nanodiamond (OND) was used as adsorbents for Methotrexate adsorption. The surface properties of NDs were studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and zeta potential. It was determined that thermal oxidation changed the surface properties of ND, including increase the amount of carboxylic acid groups and decreasing the zeta potential of ND by increasing the thermal oxidation time. The adsorption experiments showed that untreated ND (UND) has large adsorption capacity and fast adsorption kinetic for methotrexate (MTX). These results suggest that the adsorption behavior of UND with the MTX follows not only the charge but also the chemical interaction. Due to form the strong hydrogen bond between the carboxyl groups of MTX and the oxygen containing groups on the surface of NDs, Kinetic studies showed that the kinetic data are well fitted with the pseudo- second-order model for most of the adsorbents. MTT assay, Hemolysis assay and acute toxicity were used for determining biocompatibility of the adsorbents; MTT assay showed no significant toxicity up to near 300 µg/mL, OND showed neglectable hemolysis and acute toxicity result demonstrated OND was nontoxic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses Thidiazuron induced efficient in vitro organogenesis and regeneration of Scutellaria bornmuelleri as an important medicinal plant. It is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat bronchitis, hepatitis, diarrhea, tumors, infectious disease, inflammatory, and allergic diseases. The presence of flavones, such as baicalin, wogonoside, wogonin, baicalein, and luteolin, is responsible for pharmacological activities of S. baicalensis.

Statins are widely used for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. However, their inhibitory action on HMG-CoA reductase also results in the depletion of intermediate biosynthetic products, which importantly contribute to cell proliferation. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of the individual commercially available statins on investigational breast cancer. Thus, in this study, biodegradable polymeric micelles as carrier of statins were prepared using biodegradable copolymers (PCL-PEG-PCL). These nanoparticles were prepared with two statins (atorvastatin and rosuvastatin) and drug loading, release, kinetic release, and anti-cancer activity of these drugs were studied. The triblock copolymer PCL-PEG-PCL was synthesized by a ring opening polymerization of e-caprolactone in the presence of PEG as the initiator and Sn(oct)2 as the catalyst. The synthesized copolymers and nanoparticles were characterized by FTIR, HNMR, GPC, DLS, and AFM analyses. The drug loading and release of drugs were studied by UV-Vis. Additionally, MTT assays on HFF-2 cell lines were performed for determination of biocompatibility of micelles. Finally, the anticancer activity of micelles was studied on MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. The results showed that the average diameter of nanoparticles was less than 45 nm. The loading capacity of atorvastatin and rosuvastatin was 20.0 ± 1.01% and 13.21 ± 1.18%, respectively, and encapsulation efficiency of atorvastatin and rosuvastatin was 88.19 ± 1.11% and 69.32 ± 0.23%, respectively. The results showed strong and dose-dependent inhibition of cell (MCF-7line) growth by the nanoparticles compared with statins. The result of cell viability assay on the MCF-7 cell line verified that the bare nanoparticles showed little inherent cytotoxicity whereas the statins-loaded nanoparticles were cytotoxic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we designed a polymersome system for the controlled release of methotrexate (MTX) as an anticancer drug with the objective of improving the loading efficiency of the drug in polymersomes as well as achievement of an efficient control on the release rate of drug from nanocarriers. We synthesized mono methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(e-caprolactone) (mPEG-PCL) diblock copolymers. The structure of the copolymers was characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques. MTX was encapsulated within nanoparticles (NPs) through multiple emulsion method. The resulting NPs were characterized further by various techniques such as atomic force microscopy (AFM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Next, the various kinetic equations were fitted to the release data of MTX from MTX-loaded mPEG-PCL polymersomes. The results showed that the zeta potential of MTX-loaded mPEG-PCL polymersomes was about -5.49 mV and the average size was 49.18 nm. MTX was encapsulated into polymersomes loading capacity of 12 ± 0.09% and encapsulation efficiency of 45.5 ± 0.41%. The metabolic activity assays of void of MTX, mPEG-PCL polymersomes, and MTX-loaded mPEG-PCL polymersomes were compared to each other by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay of the treated MCF-7 cell lines. It can be concluded that application of NPs is a better and more effective strategy for controlled and slow release of MTX in the treatment of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niosomes (the nonionic surfactant vesicles), considered as novel drug delivery systems, can improve the solubility and stability of natural pharmaceutical molecules. They are established to provide targeting and controlled release of natural pharmaceutical compounds. Many factors can influence on niosome construction such as the preparation method, type and amount of surfactant, drug entrapment, temperature of lipids hydration, and the packing factor. The present review discusses about the most important features of niosomes such as their diverse structures, the different preparation approaches, characterization techniques, factors that affect their stability, their use by various routes of administration, their therapeutic applications in comparison with natural drugs, and specially the brain targeting with niosomes-ligand conjugation. It also provides recent data about the various types of ligand agents which make available active targeting drug delivery to the central neuron system. This system has an optimistic upcoming in pharmaceutical uses, mostly with the improving availability of innovative schemes to overcome blood-brain barrier and targeting the niosomes to the brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is a report about the synthesis iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (IONPs) which modified with positive and negative charged amino acids (AAs). L-Arginine (Arg) and L-aspartic acid (Asp) which have of guanidinium and carboxylic acid groups, respectively, were selected for this study. After loading chrysin in amino acids modified iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (F@AAs@Chrysin NPs), it was characterized by XRD, TGA, FTIR, VSM, and TEM techniques. Finally, MTT assays on HFF-2 and HEK-293 cell lines were performed for determination of biocompatibility of AA coated IONPs. The results show that, the ζ-potential and average size of F@Arg@chrysin NPs and F@Asp@chrysin NPs were to −3.87, −2.12 mV, 18.75 ± 2.40 (mean ± SD (n = 50)) nm, and 19.86 ± 2.22 (mean ± SD (n = 48)) nm, respectively. Also, the results indicated that these F@AAs@Chrysin NPs were appropriate for delivery of chrysin. Furthermore, the phantom MRI studies showed the IONPs can be used as contrast agent for the revealing of tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, drug delivery system of gliclazide, a poorly soluble drug, was developed and evaluated in vitro and in vivo. We synthesized five series of mPEG-PCL di block copolymers. The structure of the copolymers was characterized by 1H-NMR, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) techniques. In this study, gliclazide was encapsulated within micelles through a single-step nano-precipitation method, leading to formation of gliclazide/mPEG-PCL micelles. The resulting micelles were characterized further by various techniques such as DLS and AFM. The serum glucose lowering effect of gliclazide micelles was studied in streptozotocin-diabetic rats and were compared with the gliclazide treated rats. The results showed that the zeta potential of micelles was about −14.9 mV and the average size was 83.12 nm. Gliclazide was encapsulated into mPEG-PCL micelles with loading capacity of 21.05 ± 0.14% and entrapment efficiency of 94.11 ± 0.12%. In vivo testing of the gliclazide micelles in diabetic rats demonstrated a significant antidiabetic effect of gliclazide micelles after the 7 day that lasted for 21 days when compared with gliclazide powder. The results suggest that gliclazide micelles are a valuable system for the sustained delivery of gliclazide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Artemisinin (ART) has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-amyloid, and anti-malarial effects, but its application is limited due to its low water solubility and poor oral bioavailability. In this study, the bioavailability, water solubility, and anti-plasmodial property of ART were improved by PCL-PEG-PCL tri-block copolymers. Methods: The structure of the copolymers was characterized by 1H NMR, FT-IR, DSC, and GPC techniques. ART was encapsulated within micelles by a single-step nano-precipitation method, leading to the formation of ART-loaded PCL-PEG-PCL micelles. The obtained micelles were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The in vivo anti-plasmodial activity of ART-loaded micelles was measured against Plasmodium berghei infected Swiss albino mice. Results: The results showed that the zeta potential of ART-loaded micelles was about −8.37 mV and the average size was 91.87 nm. ART was encapsulated into PCL-PEG-PCL micelles with a loading capacity of 19.33 ± 0.015% and encapsulation efficacy of 87.21 ± 3.32%. In vivo anti-plasmodial results against P. berghei showed that multiple injections of ART-loaded micelles could prolong the circulation time and increase the therapeutic efficacy of ART. Conclusion: These results suggested that PCL-PEG-PCL micelles would be a potential carrier for ART for the treatment of malaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this project, a core‐shell polymersome based on miktoarm star‐copolymer:methoxy poly‐ethylene glycol‐lysine‐(poly‐caprolactone)2 was synthesized by a new method as controlled targeted drug delivery systems for codelivery of the chemotherapeutic methotrexate (MTX) and curcumin (CUR). Some properties of these nanocarriers (NCs), such as surface morphology, structure, surface charge, stability, and biocompatibility, were evaluated by proton nuclear magnetic resonance, dynamic scanning colorimetry, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, atomic force microscopy, critical aggregation concentration, hemolysis test, MTT assay, and lethal dose 50 (LD50). The AFM results showed that the uniform spherical morphology of NCs have an average size of about ∼60 nm. The drug loading of NCs was about 14.13 and 10.93% for CUR and MTX, respectively. The NCs revealed pH‐sensitivity in drug release. The release of drugs from miktoarm‐based NCs in neutral pH was lower than in acidic medium because of faster degradation of polymersome in acidic environment. MTT assay results showed that the drug‐loaded NCs did not show significant toxicity due to which cell viability maintain over 82% at 300 μg/mL concentration. Also, synthesized miktoarm showed hemolysis lower than 3%. This result was repeated in LD50, and all mice which treat with 5000 mg/kg were still alive after 24 h. These result confirmed safety of miktoarm star copolymer. Eventually, the goal of this study is the application of water‐soluble star copolymers miktoarm with pH dependent release properties for designing a new drug delivery carrier and using CUR for enhancing anticancer properties of MTX. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 2817–2826, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triblock poly(ε-caprolactone) - poly(ethylene glycol) - poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL-PEG-PCL) copolymers were synthesized and used to prepare polymersomes for controlled release of lovastatin (LOV) as hydrophobic drug. Biodegradable PCL-PEG-PCL copolymer nanoparticles were prepared and the drug loading, release, release kinetics, and anti-cancer activity of these drugs was investigated. The PCL-PEG-PCL copolymer was synthesized by ring-opening polymerization of e-caprolactone in the presence of mPEG as the initiator and Sn(Oct)2 as the catalyst. The synthesized copolymers and nanoparticles were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, DLS, and AFM techniques. The efficiency of drug loading and release from nanoparticles in vitro was studied by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Additionally, MTT assays on HFF-2 cell lines were performed for determining the biocompatibility of polymersomes. Finally, the antiproliferative activity of polymersomes was examined on MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. The obtained results showed that the average diameter of nanoparticles was less than 57 nm. The loading capacity and encapsulation efficiency of LOV was 16.1 ± 0.36% and 59.01 ± 0.78%, respectively. In vitro release study showed that the release rate of polymersomes depended on pH and was higher at lower pH than under neutral condition. The result of cell viability assay on the MCF-7 line proved that bare nanoparticles showed little inherent cytotoxicity whereas the LOV-loaded nanoparticles were cytotoxic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]