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Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications
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Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Materials Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2022) | Viewed by 48543

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Neus Feliu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Fachbereich Physik und Chemie and Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Universitat Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
Interests: nano-bio interactions, nanosafety research; nanomedicine; nanomatrials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Colloidal nanoparticles have emerged as a promising class of materials that could be used for a wide range of applications. In recent years, particular focus has been given to the development of improved synthesis methods, which allows for precise control of materials’ size and shape. Furthermore, the possibility to fabricate nanoparticle cores with different elemental composition has led to the discovery of new material properties, which increase their potential contribution to a variety of research fields, including energy, sensors, imaging, photonics, medicine, etc.  

This Special Issue will highlight the latest research on nanoparticles. Thus, we invite research articles, reviews or/and perspectives addressing and presenting nanoparticle-related subjects. Potential work will include but is not limited to the synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles, proof of concept and applicability studies, sensing, diagnosis, drug delivery and toxicity investigations, as well as views and future trends. Altogether, this Special Issue will report different areas of nanoparticle research covering the entire range from energy to diagnostic as well as bio-applications.

Dr. Neus Feliu
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Molecular Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. There is an Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal. For details about the APC please see here. Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Nanotechnology
  • Nanocrystals
  • Colloidal nanoparticles
  • Synthesis of nanoparticles
  • Nanostructures
  • Spectroscopy
  • Surface functionalization
  • Diagnosis
  • Sensors
  • Theranostics
  • Biomedical applications
  • Drug delivery
  • Control release
  • Biocompatibility

Published Papers (16 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

13 pages, 4014 KiB  
Article
Photochemical Consideration in the Interactions between Blood Proteins and Layered Inorganic Materials
by Tetsuo Yamaguchi, Hyoung-Mi Kim and Jae-Min Oh
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(19), 11367; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms231911367 - 26 Sep 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1169
Abstract
Interactions between layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanomaterials and plasma proteins according to their particle size and surface charge were evaluated. The LDHs with different particle size (150, 350 and 2000 nm) were prepared by adjusting hydrothermal treatment and urea hydrolysis and subsequent organic [...] Read more.
Interactions between layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanomaterials and plasma proteins according to their particle size and surface charge were evaluated. The LDHs with different particle size (150, 350 and 2000 nm) were prepared by adjusting hydrothermal treatment and urea hydrolysis and subsequent organic coating with citrate, malite and serite was applied to control the surface charge (ζ-potential: −15, 6 and 36 mV). Adsorption isotherms and Stern–Volmer plots for fluorescence quenching indicated that the human blood plasma had weak interactions toward all the types of LDHs. The adsorption isotherms did not show significant differences in the size and surface charges, while the fluorescence quenching ratio increased with the increase in the surface charge, implying that electrostatic interaction played a major role in their interactions. The fluorescence quenching of three types of plasma proteins (human serum albumin, γ-globulin and fibrinogen) by the surface charge-controlled LDHs suggested that the proteins adsorbed on the LDHs with a single layer and additional proteins were weakly adsorbed to surround the LDHs with adsorbed proteins. It was concluded that the LDH nanomaterials are fairly compatible for blood components due to the protein corona while the electrostatic interaction can affect their interaction with the proteins. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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10 pages, 4325 KiB  
Communication
Preparation and Antibacterial Activity of Nano Copper Oxide- Loaded Zeolite 10X
by Yang Ma and Jin Hou
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(15), 8421; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23158421 - 29 Jul 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1506
Abstract
Copper oxide nanosheet-loaded zeolite 10X nanocomposites (CuO-zeolite NCs) were successfully prepared by modifying zeolite 10X with CuSO4 aqueous solution. The formation of copper oxide nanosheets on the surface of zeolite 10X was observed by SEM. The thickness of CuO nanosheets was about [...] Read more.
Copper oxide nanosheet-loaded zeolite 10X nanocomposites (CuO-zeolite NCs) were successfully prepared by modifying zeolite 10X with CuSO4 aqueous solution. The formation of copper oxide nanosheets on the surface of zeolite 10X was observed by SEM. The thickness of CuO nanosheets was about 30–40 nm, and the width ranged from 200 nm to 300 nm. The XRD patterns showed that the new diffraction peaks of copper oxide appeared at 35.6° and 38.8°. According to the XPS results, the Cu 2p3/2 and Cu 2p1/2 peaks in CuO-zeolite NC were centered at 934.1 eV and 953.8 eV, which could be attributed to Cu(II). The EDS analysis revealed that the energy spectra of calcium gradually decreased as the copper ion concentration increased during the preparation of CuO-zeolite NCs. Meanwhile, the energy spectra of copper increased gradually, and the highest content of copper in CuO-zeolite NCs reached 22.35 wt.%. The BET surface areas of zeolite 10X and CuO-zeolite NCs were 587 and 363 m2/g, respectively, based on the N2 adsorption–desorption experiment. The antibacterial activities of CuO-zeolite NC were evaluated using Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The antibacterial activities were related to both copper ion content in CuO-zeolite NCs and the particle size of copper oxide. The results showed that nano CuO-loaded zeolite 10X inhibited the activity of E. coli and S. aureus. CuO-zeolite NCs are expected to be further used in antifouling coating. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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32 pages, 11986 KiB  
Article
Green Synthesis of Silymarin–Chitosan Nanoparticles as a New Nano Formulation with Enhanced Anti-Fibrotic Effects against Liver Fibrosis
by Abdullah Saad Abdullah, Ibrahim El Tantawy El Sayed, Abdel Moneim A. El-Torgoman, Abul Kalam, S. Wageh and Maher A. Kamel
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(10), 5420; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23105420 - 12 May 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2971
Abstract
Background: Silymarin (SIL) has long been utilized to treat a variety of liver illnesses, but due to its poor water solubility and low membrane permeability, it has a low oral bioavailability, limiting its therapeutic potential. Aim: Design and evaluate hepatic-targeted delivery of safe [...] Read more.
Background: Silymarin (SIL) has long been utilized to treat a variety of liver illnesses, but due to its poor water solubility and low membrane permeability, it has a low oral bioavailability, limiting its therapeutic potential. Aim: Design and evaluate hepatic-targeted delivery of safe biocompatible formulated SIL-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (SCNPs) to enhance SIL’s anti-fibrotic effectiveness in rats with CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. Methods: The SCNPs and chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) were prepared by ionotropic gelation technique and are characterized by physicochemical parameters such as particle size, morphology, zeta potential, and in vitro release studies. The therapeutic efficacy of successfully formulated SCNPs and CNPs were subjected to in vivo evaluation studies. Rats were daily administered SIL, SCNPs, and CNPs orally for 30 days. Results: The in vivo study revealed that the synthesized SCNPs demonstrated a significant antifibrotic therapeutic action against CCl4-induced hepatic injury in rats when compared to treated groups of SIL and CNPs. SCNP-treated rats had a healthy body weight, with normal values for liver weight and liver index, as well as significant improvements in liver functions, inflammatory indicators, antioxidant pathway activation, and lipid peroxidation reduction. The antifibrotic activities of SCNPs were mediated by suppressing the expression of the main fibrosis mediators TGFβR1, COL3A1, and TGFβR2 by boosting the hepatic expression of protective miRNAs; miR-22, miR-29c, and miR-219a, respectively. The anti-fibrotic effects of SCNPs were supported by histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) study. Conclusions: According to the above results, SCNPs might be the best suitable carrier to target liver cells in the treatment of liver fibrosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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13 pages, 2528 KiB  
Article
Sonochemical Combined Synthesis of Nickel Ferrite and Cobalt Ferrite Magnetic Nanoparticles and Their Application in Glycan Analysis
by Agnes Maria Ilosvai, Dalma Dojcsak, Csaba Váradi, Miklós Nagy, Ferenc Kristály, Béla Fiser, Béla Viskolcz and László Vanyorek
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(9), 5081; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23095081 - 03 May 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2307
Abstract
The combination of the sonochemical activation of Ni(NO3)2 and Co(NO3)2 in the presence of Fe(NO3)3 and polyethylene glycol and consecutive heat treatment of the formed metal hydroxides offers a cheap and efficient method for [...] Read more.
The combination of the sonochemical activation of Ni(NO3)2 and Co(NO3)2 in the presence of Fe(NO3)3 and polyethylene glycol and consecutive heat treatment of the formed metal hydroxides offers a cheap and efficient method for the preparation of nickel ferrite and cobalt ferrite magnetic nanoparticles, which can be successfully applied in the selective capture of fluorescently derivatized N-glycans from human serum. XRD measurement revealed that, besides the ferrite phase, nickel and cobalt oxides also form during heat treatment. The amount of simple metal oxides can be well controlled by the temperature of the heat treatment, since increasing temperature yielded higher spinel content. For both nickel and cobalt, the best heat treatment temperature was found to be 673 K, where the samples contained 84.1% nickel ferrite, and in the case of cobalt, almost pure (99.6%) cobalt ferrite could be prepared. FT-IR and zeta potential measurements indicated the presence of surface OH groups, which aided in the dispersion of the particles in water and, in addition, can promote the adsorption of polar compounds. The practical applicability of the magnetic nanopowders was demonstrated in the purification of fluorescently derivatized N-glycans (from human serum). Cobalt ferrite was found to be the most effective. Owing to the easy preparation and the simplicity of the magnetic separation the pure cobalt ferrite, magnetic nanoparticles could be efficient tools for the selective enrichment of serum N-glycans in HPLC measurements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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13 pages, 1637 KiB  
Article
Multitask Quantum Study of the Curcumin-Based Complex Physicochemical and Biological Properties
by Kaouther Baira, Ali Ounissi, Hafida Merouani, Manawwer Alam, Nadia Ouddai, Alessandro Erto, Krishna Kumar Yadav, Saiful Islam, Ji-Kwang Cheon, Byong-Hun Jeon and Yacine Benguerba
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(5), 2832; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23052832 - 04 Mar 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1896
Abstract
Density functional theory (DFT), time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT), quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM), and extended transition state natural orbitals for chemical valence (ETS-NOCV) have all been used to investigate the physicochemical and biological properties of curcumin and three complexes, i.e., [...] Read more.
Density functional theory (DFT), time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT), quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM), and extended transition state natural orbitals for chemical valence (ETS-NOCV) have all been used to investigate the physicochemical and biological properties of curcumin and three complexes, i.e., Cur-M (M = Ni, Cu, and Mg). Based on DFT calculations, the enolic form (Cur-Enol) is more stable than the anti-diketone form (Cur-Anti diketone) favored for complexation. This enolic form stability was explained by the presence of three intramolecular hydrogen bonds according to the QTAIM analysis. Furthermore, the ETS-NOCV technique revealed that the enolic form had more significant antioxidant activity compared with the anti-diketone form. The calculations from the COnductor-like Screening MOdel for Realistic Solvents (COSMO-RS) showed that the dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solvent could dissolve all the curcumin tautomers Cur-Enol, Cur-Anti-diketone and Cur-Cu, Cur-Mg, and Cur-Ni complexes in contrast to benzene, acetone, octanol, ethanol, methanol, and water. Furthermore, except for Cur-Mg, which had a relatively low solubility (14 g/L), all complexes were insoluble in water. Cur-Anti-diketone was considerably more soluble than Cur-Enol in the examined solvents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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18 pages, 4365 KiB  
Article
Chabazite Synthesis and Its Exchange with Ti, Zn, Cu, Ag and Au for Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue Dye
by José C. González-Crisostomo, Rigoberto López-Juárez, Rosario Isidro Yocupicio-Gaxiola, Eric Villanueva, Ethiel Zavala-Flores and Vitalii Petranovskii
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(3), 1730; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23031730 - 02 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2389
Abstract
A chabazite-type zeolite was prepared by the hydrothermal method. Before ion exchange, the chabazite was activated with ammonium chloride (NH4Cl). The ion exchange process was carried out at a controlled temperature and constant stirring to obtain ion-exchanged chabazites of Ti4+ [...] Read more.
A chabazite-type zeolite was prepared by the hydrothermal method. Before ion exchange, the chabazite was activated with ammonium chloride (NH4Cl). The ion exchange process was carried out at a controlled temperature and constant stirring to obtain ion-exchanged chabazites of Ti4+ chabazite (TiCHA), Zn2+ chabazite (ZnCHA), Cu2+ chabazite (CuCHA), Ag+ chabazite (AgCHA) and Au3+ chabazite (AuCHA). Modified chabazite samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope equipped with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), N2 adsorption methods and UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). XRD results revealed that the chabazite structure did not undergo any modification during the exchange treatments. The photocatalytic activity of chabazite samples was evaluated by the degradation of methylene blue (MB) in the presence of H2O2 under ultraviolet (UV) light illumination. The photodegradation results showed a higher degradation efficiency of modified chabazites, compared to the synthesized chabazite. CuCHA showed an efficiency of 98.92% in MB degradation, with a constant of k = 0.0266 min−1 following a first-order kinetic mechanism. Then, it was demonstrated that the modified chabazites could be used for the photodegradation of dyes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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24 pages, 7189 KiB  
Article
Biosynthesis and Cytotoxic Properties of Ag, Au, and Bimetallic Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Lithospermum erythrorhizon Callus Culture Extract
by Yury Shkryl, Tatiana Rusapetova, Yulia Yugay, Anna Egorova, Vladimir Silant’ev, Valeria Grigorchuk, Aleksandr Karabtsov, Yana Timofeeva, Elena Vasyutkina, Olesya Kudinova, Vladimir Ivanov, Vadim Kumeiko and Victor Bulgakov
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(17), 9305; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22179305 - 27 Aug 2021
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3006
Abstract
The present study reports a green chemistry approach for the rapid and easy biological synthesis of silver (Ag), gold (Au), and bimetallic Ag/Au nanoparticles using the callus extract of Lithospermum erythrorhizon as a reducing and capping agent. The biosynthesized nanoparticles were characterized with [...] Read more.
The present study reports a green chemistry approach for the rapid and easy biological synthesis of silver (Ag), gold (Au), and bimetallic Ag/Au nanoparticles using the callus extract of Lithospermum erythrorhizon as a reducing and capping agent. The biosynthesized nanoparticles were characterized with ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Our results showed the formation of crystalline metal nanostructures of both spherical and non-spherical shape. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy showed the characteristic peaks in the silver and gold regions, confirming the presence of the corresponding elements in the monometallic particles and both elements in the bimetallic particles. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy affirmed the role of polysaccharides and polyphenols of the L. erythrorhizon extract as the major reducing and capping agents for metal ions. In addition, our results showed that the polysaccharide sample and the fraction containing secondary metabolites isolated from L. erythrorhizon were both able to produce large amounts of metallic nanoparticles. The biosynthesized nanoparticles demonstrated cytotoxicity against mouse neuroblastoma and embryonic fibroblast cells, which was considerably higher for Ag nanoparticles and for bimetallic Ag/Au nanoparticles containing a higher molar ratio of silver. However, fibroblast migration was not significantly affected by any of the nanoparticles tested. The obtained results provide a new example of the safe biological production of metallic nanoparticles, but further study is required to uncover the mechanism of their toxicity so that the biomedical potency can be assessed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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17 pages, 5142 KiB  
Article
Antimicrobial Properties of Palladium and Platinum Nanoparticles: A New Tool for Combating Food-Borne Pathogens
by Ondrej Chlumsky, Sabina Purkrtova, Hana Michova, Hana Sykorova, Petr Slepicka, Dominik Fajstavr, Pavel Ulbrich, Jitka Viktorova and Katerina Demnerova
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(15), 7892; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22157892 - 23 Jul 2021
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 2997
Abstract
Although some metallic nanoparticles (NPs) are commonly used in the food processing plants as nanomaterials for food packaging, or as coatings on the food handling equipment, little is known about antimicrobial properties of palladium (PdNPs) and platinum (PtNPs) nanoparticles and their potential use [...] Read more.
Although some metallic nanoparticles (NPs) are commonly used in the food processing plants as nanomaterials for food packaging, or as coatings on the food handling equipment, little is known about antimicrobial properties of palladium (PdNPs) and platinum (PtNPs) nanoparticles and their potential use in the food industry. In this study, common food-borne pathogens Salmonella enterica Infantis, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus were tested. Both NPs reduced viable cells with the log10 CFU reduction of 0.3–2.4 (PdNPs) and 0.8–2.0 (PtNPs), average inhibitory rates of 55.2–99% for PdNPs and of 83.8–99% for PtNPs. However, both NPs seemed to be less effective for biofilm formation and its reduction. The most effective concentrations were evaluated to be 22.25–44.5 mg/L for PdNPs and 50.5–101 mg/L for PtNPs. Furthermore, the interactions of tested NPs with bacterial cell were visualized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM visualization confirmed that NPs entered bacteria and caused direct damage of the cell walls, which resulted in bacterial disruption. The in vitro cytotoxicity of individual NPs was determined in primary human renal tubular epithelial cells (HRTECs), human keratinocytes (HaCat), human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs), human epithelial kidney cells (HEK 293), and primary human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs). Due to their antimicrobial properties on bacterial cells and no acute cytotoxicity, both types of NPs could potentially fight food-borne pathogens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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13 pages, 3357 KiB  
Article
Intracellular Delivery of Doxorubicin by Iron Oxide-Based Nano-Constructs Increases Clonogenic Inactivation of Ionizing Radiation in HeLa Cells
by Roxana Cristina Popescu, Diana Iulia Savu, Miriam Bierbaum, Adriana Grbenicek, Frank Schneider, Hiltraud Hosser, Bogdan Ștefan Vasile, Ecaterina Andronescu, Frederik Wenz, Frank A. Giordano, Carsten Herskind and Marlon R. Veldwijk
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(13), 6778; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22136778 - 24 Jun 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2859
Abstract
In this study, we determined the potential of polyethylene glycol-encapsulated iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPCO) for the intracellular delivery of the chemotherapeutic doxorubicin (IONPDOX) to enhance the cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation. The biological effects of IONP and X-ray irradiation [...] Read more.
In this study, we determined the potential of polyethylene glycol-encapsulated iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPCO) for the intracellular delivery of the chemotherapeutic doxorubicin (IONPDOX) to enhance the cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation. The biological effects of IONP and X-ray irradiation (50 kV and 6 MV) were determined in HeLa cells using the colony formation assay (CFA) and detection of γH2AX foci. Data are presented as mean ± SEM. IONP were efficiently internalized by HeLa cells. IONPCO radiomodulating effect was dependent on nanoparticle concentration and photon energy. IONPCO did not radiosensitize HeLa cells with 6 MV X-rays, yet moderately enhanced cellular radiosensitivity to 50 kV X-rays (DMFSF0.1 = 1.13 ± 0.05 (p = 0.01)). IONPDOX did enhance the cytotoxicity of 6 MV X-rays (DMFSF0.1 = 1.3 ± 0.1; p = 0.0005). IONP treatment significantly increased γH2AX foci induction without irradiation. Treatment of HeLa cells with IONPCO resulted in a radiosensitizing effect for low-energy X-rays, while exposure to IONPDOX induced radiosensitization compared to IONPCO in cells irradiated with 6 MV X-rays. The effect did not correlate with the induction of γH2AX foci. Given these results, IONP are promising candidates for the controlled delivery of DOX to enhance the cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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13 pages, 2956 KiB  
Article
Precious-Metal-Decorated Chromium(IV) Oxide Nanowires as Efficient Catalysts for 2,4-Toluenediamine Synthesis
by Viktória Hajdu, Alexandra Jakab-Nácsa, Gábor Muránszky, István Kocserha, Béla Fiser, Tibor Ferenczi, Miklós Nagy, Béla Viskolcz and László Vanyorek
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(11), 5945; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22115945 - 31 May 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2331
Abstract
The catalytic hydrogenation of 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT) to 2,4-toluenediamine (TDA) is a key step in the production of polyurethanes; therefore, the development of efficient hydrogenation catalysts for industrial use is of paramount importance. In the present study, chromium(IV) oxide nanowires were decorated by palladium [...] Read more.
The catalytic hydrogenation of 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT) to 2,4-toluenediamine (TDA) is a key step in the production of polyurethanes; therefore, the development of efficient hydrogenation catalysts for industrial use is of paramount importance. In the present study, chromium(IV) oxide nanowires were decorated by palladium and platinum nanoparticles in a one-step, simple, and fast preparation method to yield highly efficient hydrogenation catalysts for immediate use. The nanoparticles were deposited onto the surface of CrO2 nanowires by using ultrasonic cavitation and ethanol as a reduction agent. Beneficially, the catalyst became catalytically active right at the end of the preparation and no further treatment was necessary. The activity of the Pd- and Pt-decorated CrO2 catalysts were compared in the hydrogenation of 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT). Both catalysts have shown high activity in the hydrogenation tests. The DNT conversion exceeded 98% in both cases, whereas the 2,4-toluenediamine (TDA) yields were 99.7 n/n% and 98.8 n/n%, with the Pd/CrO2 and Pt/CrO2, respectively, at 333 K and 20 bar H2 pressure. In the case of the Pt/CrO2 catalyst, 304.08 mol of TDA formed with 1 mol Pt after 1 h hydrogenation. Activation energies were also calculated to be approximately 24 kJ∙mol−1. Besides their immediate applicability, our catalysts were well dispersible in the reaction medium (methanolic solution of DNT). Moreover, because of their magnetic behavior, the catalysts were easy to handle and remove from the reaction media by using a magnetic field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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14 pages, 3006 KiB  
Article
Magnetic Particles with Polymeric Shells Bearing Cholesterol Moieties Sensitize Breast Cancer Cells to Low Doses of Doxorubicin
by Karolina H. Markiewicz, Katarzyna Niemirowicz-Laskowska, Dawid Szymczuk, Kacper Makarewicz, Iwona Misztalewska-Turkowicz, Przemysław Wielgat, Anna M. Majcher-Fitas, Sylwia Milewska, Halina Car and Agnieszka Z. Wilczewska
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(9), 4898; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22094898 - 05 May 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2580
Abstract
One of the promising strategies for improvement of cancer treatment is application of a combination therapy. The aim of this study was to investigate the anticancer activity of nanoformulations containing doxorubicin and iron oxide particles covered with polymeric shells bearing cholesterol moieties. It [...] Read more.
One of the promising strategies for improvement of cancer treatment is application of a combination therapy. The aim of this study was to investigate the anticancer activity of nanoformulations containing doxorubicin and iron oxide particles covered with polymeric shells bearing cholesterol moieties. It was postulated that due to high affinity to cell membranes, particles comprising poly(cholesteryl acrylate) can sensitize cancer cells to doxorubicin chemotherapy. The performed analyses revealed that the developed systems are effective against the human breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 even at low doses of the active compound applied (0.5 µM). Additionally, high compatibility and lack of toxicity of the tested materials against human red blood cells, immune (monocytic THP-1) cells, and cardiomyocyte H9C2(2-1) cells was demonstrated. Synergistic effects observed upon administration of doxorubicin with polymer–iron oxide hybrids comprising poly(cholesteryl acrylate) may provide an opportunity to limit toxicity of the drug and to improve its therapeutic efficiency at the same time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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16 pages, 3729 KiB  
Article
Development of Silica-Based Biodegradable Submicrometric Carriers and Investigating Their Characteristics as in Vitro Delivery Vehicles
by Mikhail V. Zyuzin, Dingcheng Zhu, Wolfgang J. Parak, Neus Feliu and Alberto Escudero
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(20), 7563; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21207563 - 13 Oct 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3277
Abstract
Nanostructured silica (SiO2)-based materials are attractive carriers for the delivery of bioactive compounds into cells. In this study, we developed hollow submicrometric particles composed of SiO2 capsules that were separately loaded with various bioactive molecules such as dextran, proteins, and [...] Read more.
Nanostructured silica (SiO2)-based materials are attractive carriers for the delivery of bioactive compounds into cells. In this study, we developed hollow submicrometric particles composed of SiO2 capsules that were separately loaded with various bioactive molecules such as dextran, proteins, and nucleic acids. The structural characterization of the reported carriers was conducted using transmission and scanning electron microscopies (TEM/SEM), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Moreover, the interaction of the developed carriers with cell lines was studied using standard viability, proliferation, and uptake assays. The submicrometric SiO2-based capsules loaded with DNA plasmid encoding green fluorescence proteins (GFP) were used to transfect cell lines. The obtained results were compared with studies made with similar capsules composed of polymers and show that SiO2-based capsules provide better transfection rates on the costs of higher toxicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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Review

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34 pages, 4005 KiB  
Review
Monodisperse Gold Nanoparticles: A Review on Synthesis and Their Application in Modern Medicine
by Mohammed Ali Dheyab, Azlan Abdul Aziz, Pegah Moradi Khaniabadi, Mahmood S. Jameel, Nazila Oladzadabbasabadi, Selwan Abduljabbar Mohammed, Raja Saleh Abdullah and Baharak Mehrdel
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(13), 7400; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23137400 - 02 Jul 2022
Cited by 41 | Viewed by 4487
Abstract
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are becoming increasingly popular as drug carriers due to their unique properties such as size tenability, multivalency, low toxicity and biocompatibility. AuNPs have physical features that distinguish them from bulk materials, small molecules and other nanoscale particles. Their unique combination [...] Read more.
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are becoming increasingly popular as drug carriers due to their unique properties such as size tenability, multivalency, low toxicity and biocompatibility. AuNPs have physical features that distinguish them from bulk materials, small molecules and other nanoscale particles. Their unique combination of characteristics is just now being fully realized in various biomedical applications. In this review, we focus on the research accomplishments and new opportunities in this field, and we describe the rising developments in the use of monodisperse AuNPs for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. This study addresses the key principles and the most recent published data, focusing on monodisperse AuNP synthesis, surface modifications, and future theranostic applications. Moving forward, we also consider the possible development of functionalized monodisperse AuNPs for theranostic applications based on these efforts. We anticipate that as research advances, flexible AuNPs will become a crucial platform for medical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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23 pages, 1954 KiB  
Review
Bio-Synthesized Nanoparticles in Developing Plant Abiotic Stress Resilience: A New Boon for Sustainable Approach
by Sarika Kumari, Risheek Rahul Khanna, Faroza Nazir, Mohammed Albaqami, Himanshu Chhillar, Iram Wahid and M. Iqbal R. Khan
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(8), 4452; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23084452 - 18 Apr 2022
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 3910
Abstract
Agriculture crop development and production may be hampered in the modern era because of the increasing prevalence of ecological problems around the world. In the last few centuries, plant and agrarian scientific experts have shown significant progress in promoting efficient and eco-friendly approaches [...] Read more.
Agriculture crop development and production may be hampered in the modern era because of the increasing prevalence of ecological problems around the world. In the last few centuries, plant and agrarian scientific experts have shown significant progress in promoting efficient and eco-friendly approaches for the green synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs), which are noteworthy due to their unique physio-biochemical features as well as their possible role and applications. They are thought to be powerful sensing molecules that regulate a wide range of significant physiological and biochemical processes in plants, from germination to senescence, as well as unique strategies for coping with changing environmental circumstances. This review highlights current knowledge on the plant extract-mediated synthesis of NPs, as well as their significance in reprogramming plant traits and ameliorating abiotic stresses. Nano particles-mediated modulation of phytohormone content in response to abiotic stress is also displayed. Additionally, the applications and limitations of green synthesized NPs in various scientific regimes have also been highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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37 pages, 1104 KiB  
Review
Promising Nanoparticle-Based Heat Transfer Fluids—Environmental and Techno-Economic Analysis Compared to Conventional Fluids
by Natalia Czaplicka, Anna Grzegórska, Jan Wajs, Joanna Sobczak and Andrzej Rogala
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(17), 9201; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22179201 - 25 Aug 2021
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3119
Abstract
Providing optimal operating conditions is one of the major challenges for effective heating or cooling systems. Moreover, proper adjustment of the heat transfer fluid is also important from the viewpoint of the correct operation, maintenance, and cost efficiency of these systems. Therefore, in [...] Read more.
Providing optimal operating conditions is one of the major challenges for effective heating or cooling systems. Moreover, proper adjustment of the heat transfer fluid is also important from the viewpoint of the correct operation, maintenance, and cost efficiency of these systems. Therefore, in this paper, a detailed review of recent work on the subject of conventional and novel heat transfer fluid applications is presented. Particular attention is paid to the novel nanoparticle-based materials used as heat transfer fluids. In-depth comparison of environmental, technical, and economic characteristics is discussed. Thermophysical properties including thermal conductivity, specific heat, density, viscosity, and Prandtl number are compared. Furthermore, the possible benefits and limitations of various transfer fluids in the fields of application are taken into account. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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27 pages, 4750 KiB  
Review
Melanin-Like Nanomedicine in Photothermal Therapy Applications
by Yale Yue and Xiao Zhao
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(1), 399; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22010399 - 01 Jan 2021
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4984
Abstract
Photothermal therapy (PTT) mediated by nanomaterial has become an attractive tumor treatment method due to its obvious advantages. Among various nanomaterials, melanin-like nanoparticles with nature biocompatibility and photothermal conversion properties have attracted more and more attention. Melanin is a natural biological macromolecule widely [...] Read more.
Photothermal therapy (PTT) mediated by nanomaterial has become an attractive tumor treatment method due to its obvious advantages. Among various nanomaterials, melanin-like nanoparticles with nature biocompatibility and photothermal conversion properties have attracted more and more attention. Melanin is a natural biological macromolecule widely distributed in the body and displays many fascinating physicochemical properties such as excellent biocompatibility and prominent photothermal conversion ability. Due to the similar properties, Melanin-like nanoparticles have been extensively studied and become promising candidates for clinical application. In this review, we give a comprehensive introduction to the recent advancements of melanin-like nanoparticles in the field of photothermal therapy in the past decade. In this review, the synthesis pathway, internal mechanism and basic physical and chemical properties of melanin-like nanomaterials are systematically classified and evaluated. It also summarizes the application of melanin-like nanoparticles in bioimaging and tumor photothermal therapy (PTT)in detail and discussed the challenges they faced in clinical translation rationally. Overall, melanin-like nanoparticles still have significant room for development in the field of biomedicine and are expected to applied in clinical PTT in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Applications)
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