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Nanotechnology Applications in Nanomedicine: Recent Advances and Prospects
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Nanotechnology Applications in Nanomedicine: Recent Advances and Prospects

A special issue of Molecules (ISSN 1420-3049). This special issue belongs to the section "Nanochemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2024) | Viewed by 19059

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Haijun Shen

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
Interests: nanomedicine; nano systems; nanomaterials; nano drugs; drug delivery
Dr. Jin Li

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221000, China
Interests: nanomedicine; disease diagnosis; disease treatment; nano drugs; drug delivery

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Nanomedicine, an offshoot of nanotechnology, is defined as the “science that uses nanomaterials to the development of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of specific medical application.” Nanomedicine is one of the most rapidly growing fields of translational medicine, because it offers great opportunities to promote innovations in numerous medical fields, including controlled drug delivery, biomarkers, molecular imaging, biosensing, and so on. Notably, the contributions of nanomedicine are still growing in a more spectacular way, along with the development of nanotechnology. This Special Issue, "Nanotechnology Applications in Nanomedicine: Recent Advances and Prospects", aims to collect and disseminate some of the most significant and recent contributions in the field of nanomedicine.

We welcome the submission of original research articles, short communications and review articles that cover, but are not limited to, the following topics:

  • Functionalized nanosystems for drug delivery.
  • Synthesis, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of nanodrugs.
  • Nanomaterials for imaging, biosensing and disease diagnosis.
  • Nanomedical devices for regenerative medicine.
  • Bioavailability and toxicology of nanomaterials.

Dr. Haijun Shen
Dr. Jin Li
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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. Molecules is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). 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.

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 1260 KiB  
Article
A Facile and Promising Delivery Platform for siRNA to Solid Tumors
by Qixin Leng, Aishwarya Anand and A. James Mixson
Molecules 2024, 29(23), 5541; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29235541 - 23 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1114
Abstract
Over 20 years have passed since siRNA was brought to the public’s attention. Silencing genes with siRNA has been used for various purposes, from creating pest-resistant plants to treating human diseases. In the last six years, several siRNA therapies have been approved by [...] Read more.
Over 20 years have passed since siRNA was brought to the public’s attention. Silencing genes with siRNA has been used for various purposes, from creating pest-resistant plants to treating human diseases. In the last six years, several siRNA therapies have been approved by the FDA, which solely target disease-inducing proteins in the liver. The extrahepatic utility of systemically delivered siRNA has been primarily limited to preclinical studies. While siRNA targeting the liver comprises relatively simple ligand-siRNA conjugates, siRNA treating extrahepatic diseases such as cancer often requires complex carriers. The complexity of these extrahepatic carriers of siRNA reduces the likelihood of their widespread clinical use. In the current report, we initially demonstrated that a linear histidine–lysine (HK) carrier of siRNA, injected intravenously, effectively silenced luciferase expressed by MDA-MB-435 tumors in a mouse model. This non-pegylated linear peptide carrier was easily synthesized compared to the complex cRGD-conjugated pegylated branched peptides our group used previously. Notably, the tumor-targeting component, KHHK, was embedded within the peptide, eliminating the need to conjugate the ligand to the carrier. Moreover, brief bath sonication significantly improved the in vitro and in vivo silencing of these HK siRNA polyplexes. Several other linear peptides containing the -KHHK- sequence were then screened with some carriers of siRNA, silencing 80% of the tumor luciferase marker. Additionally, silencing by these HK siRNA polyplexes was confirmed in a second tumor model. Not only was luciferase activity reduced, but these siRNA polyplexes also reduced the Raf-1 oncogene in the MDA-MB-231 xenografts. These simple-to-synthesize, effective, linear HK peptides are promising siRNA carriers for clinical use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanotechnology Applications in Nanomedicine: Recent Advances and Prospects)
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16 pages, 4190 KiB  
Article
Oligo(ethylene glycol) Methacrylate Copolymer-Modified Liposomes for Temperature-Responsive Drug Delivery System
by Maria Isabel Martinez Espinoza, Sezen Gül, Luisa Mugnaini and Francesco Cellesi
Molecules 2024, 29(23), 5511; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29235511 - 21 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 863
Abstract
A thermoresponsive copolymer based on oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate, Chol-P(MEO2MA-co-OEGMA), was synthesized using Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ATRP) and incorporated into thermosensitive liposomes (TSLs) for controlled drug release. The copolymer exhibited a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of 37 °C, making it [...] Read more.
A thermoresponsive copolymer based on oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate, Chol-P(MEO2MA-co-OEGMA), was synthesized using Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ATRP) and incorporated into thermosensitive liposomes (TSLs) for controlled drug release. The copolymer exhibited a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of 37 °C, making it suitable for biomedical applications requiring precise thermal triggers. The copolymer was incorporated into various TSL formulations alongside phospholipids such as DPPC, Lyso-PC, HSPC, and DSPC. Physicochemical characterization of the liposomes, including average size, polydispersity index, loading efficiency (LE), and encapsulation efficiency (EE), was performed using dynamic light scattering and fluorescence spectroscopy. The results showed that the incorporation of the copolymer slightly affected particle size and decreased LE and EE in most formulations. Lyso-PC-containing formulations exhibited lower LE and EE, likely due to instability during purification. Albumin encapsulation demonstrated lower LE compared to the smaller carboxyfluorescein drug model, highlighting the influence of molecular weight on loading. Although copolymer-modified liposomes showed reduced loading capacity, they enhanced thermoresponsiveness in HSPC-based formulations. These findings suggest that incorporating thermoresponsive polymers into TSLs can optimize drug delivery systems for targeted, thermally triggered release. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanotechnology Applications in Nanomedicine: Recent Advances and Prospects)
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15 pages, 4985 KiB  
Article
Optimization and Synthesis of Nano-Niosomes for Encapsulation of Triacontanol by Box–Behnken Design
by Alfredo Amaury Bautista Solano, Gloria Dávila-Ortiz, María de Jesús Perea-Flores and Alma Leticia Martínez-Ayala
Molecules 2024, 29(18), 4421; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29184421 - 18 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1664
Abstract
Triacontanol is a long-chain primary alcohol derived from policosanol, known for its diverse biological activities, including functioning as a plant growth regulator and exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antitumoral effects. However, its application is limited due to its high hydrophobicity, resulting in poor absorption and [...] Read more.
Triacontanol is a long-chain primary alcohol derived from policosanol, known for its diverse biological activities, including functioning as a plant growth regulator and exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antitumoral effects. However, its application is limited due to its high hydrophobicity, resulting in poor absorption and reduced therapeutic effectiveness. A potential solution to this problem is the use of niosomes. Niosomes are carriers composed of non-ionic surfactants, cholesterol, charge-inducing agents, and a hydration medium. They are effective in encapsulating drugs, improving their solubility and bioavailability. The objective of this study was to optimize and synthesize nano-niosomes for the encapsulation of triacontanol. Niosomes were synthesized using a thin-film hydration method combined with ultrasonication, following a Box–Behnken design. Niosomes were characterized using various techniques including dynamic light scattering, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), confocal microscopy, high-resolution scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Formulation 14 of niosomes achieved the desired size, polydispersity index (0.198 ± 0.008), and zeta potential (−31.28 ± 1.21). FTIR analysis revealed a characteristic signal in the 3400–300 cm−1 range, indicating intermolecular interactions due to a bifurcated hydrogen bond between cholesterol and S60. Confocal microscopy confirmed the presence of triacontanol through Nile Red fluorescence. TEM revealed the spherical structure of niosomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanotechnology Applications in Nanomedicine: Recent Advances and Prospects)
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13 pages, 5334 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of Green Copper Nanoparticles Using Medicinal Plant Krameria sp. Root Extract and Its Applications
by Shifaa O. Alshammari, Sabry Younis Mahmoud and Eman Saleh Farrag
Molecules 2023, 28(12), 4629; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28124629 - 8 Jun 2023
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7886
Abstract
Nanotechnology is one of the most dynamic research areas and the fastest-growing market. Developing eco-friendly products using available resources to acquire maximum production, better yield, and stability is a great challenge for nanotechnology. In this study, copper nanoparticles (CuNP) were synthesized via the [...] Read more.
Nanotechnology is one of the most dynamic research areas and the fastest-growing market. Developing eco-friendly products using available resources to acquire maximum production, better yield, and stability is a great challenge for nanotechnology. In this study, copper nanoparticles (CuNP) were synthesized via the green method using root extract of the medical plant Rhatany (Krameria sp.) as a reducing and capping agent and used to investigate the influence of microorganisms. The maximum production of CuNP was noted at 70 °C after 3 h of reaction time. The formation of nanoparticles was confirmed through UV-spectrophotometer, and the product showed an absorbance peak in the 422–430 nm range. The functional groups were observed using the FTIR technique, such as isocyanic acid attached to stabilize the nanoparticles. The spherical nature and average crystal sizes of the particle (6.16 nm) were determined using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) analysis. In tests with a few drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria and fungus species, CuNP showed encouraging antimicrobial efficacy. CuNP had a significant antioxidant capacity of 83.81% at 200 g/m−1. Green synthesized CuNP are cost-effective and nontoxic and can be applied in agriculture, biomedical, and other fields. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanotechnology Applications in Nanomedicine: Recent Advances and Prospects)
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Review

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23 pages, 5970 KiB  
Review
Harnessing Ultrasonic Technologies to Treat Staphylococcus Aureus Skin Infections
by John Hulme
Molecules 2025, 30(3), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30030512 - 23 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1199
Abstract
The rise of antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains, particularly MRSA, complicates the management of skin and soft tissue infections. This review highlights ultrasonic methodologies as adjunctive therapies to combat S. aureus-driven skin infections and prevent progression to biofilm formation and chronic wounds. Low- [...] Read more.
The rise of antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains, particularly MRSA, complicates the management of skin and soft tissue infections. This review highlights ultrasonic methodologies as adjunctive therapies to combat S. aureus-driven skin infections and prevent progression to biofilm formation and chronic wounds. Low- and high-frequency ultrasound (LFU and HFU) demonstrate potential in disrupting biofilms, enhancing drug delivery, and promoting tissue repair through cavitation and microbubble activity. These approaches integrate ultrasonic frequencies with microbubbles and therapeutics, such as antibiotics and affimers, to minimize resistance and improve healing. Tailoring the bioeffects of ultrasound on skin structures through localized delivery technologies, including microneedle patches and piezoelectric systems, presents promising solutions for early intervention in skin and soft structure infections (SSSIs). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanotechnology Applications in Nanomedicine: Recent Advances and Prospects)
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24 pages, 6380 KiB  
Review
Selenium Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Examination of Synthesis Techniques and Their Diverse Applications in Medical Research and Toxicology Studies
by Shobana Sampath, Veena Sunderam, M. Manjusha, Zodwa Dlamini and Ansel Vishal Lawrance
Molecules 2024, 29(4), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29040801 - 9 Feb 2024
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5408
Abstract
Selenium is a trace and necessary micronutrient for human, animal, and microbial health. Many researchers have recently been interested in selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) due to their biocompatibility, bioavailability, and low toxicity. As a result of their greater bioactivity, selenium nanoparticles are widely employed [...] Read more.
Selenium is a trace and necessary micronutrient for human, animal, and microbial health. Many researchers have recently been interested in selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) due to their biocompatibility, bioavailability, and low toxicity. As a result of their greater bioactivity, selenium nanoparticles are widely employed in a variety of biological applications. Physical, chemical, and biological approaches can all be used to synthesize selenium nanoparticles. Since it uses non-toxic solvents and operates at a suitable temperature, the biological technique is a preferable option. This review article addresses the processes implemented in the synthesis of SeNPs and highlights their medicinal uses, such as the treatment of fungi, bacteria, cancer, and wounds. Furthermore, we discuss the most recent findings on the potential of several biological materials for selenium nanoparticle production. The precursor, extract, process, time, temperature, and other synthesis criteria will be elaborated in conjunction with the product’s physical properties (size, shape, and stability). The synergies of SeNP synthesis via various methods aid future researchers in precisely synthesizing SeNPs and using them in desired applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanotechnology Applications in Nanomedicine: Recent Advances and Prospects)
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