Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
6.7
4.6
Journals
Molecules
Special Issues
Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials...
molecules-logo
Submit to Molecules Review for Molecules Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

► Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser
share announcement

Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials

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

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2019) | Viewed by 60520

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Iwona Cicha

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Cardiovascular Nanomedicine Unit, Section of Experimental Oncology and Nanomedicine (SEON), ENT-Department, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
Interests: nanomedicine; magnetic nanoparticles; drug delivery; biomaterials; biofabrication; vascular biology; hemorheology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. László Dézsi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanomedicine Research and Education Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
Interests: cardiovascular physiology; hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) to nanomedicines; in vivo models of HSRs; complement activation-related pseudoallergy (CARPA); liposomes; superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs)
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. May Azzawi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Healthcare Science Research Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Mamchester, UK
Interests: vascular contractility and function; nanotechnology and regenerative medicine; nanomedicine and nanotoxicology; immunopathogenesis of heart and lung diseases

Special Issue Information

Dear colleagues,

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the world, with an increasing prevalence due to the aging of populations. Nanomedicine offers unique opportunities and novel approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of CVD. It is estimated that this scientific field will have an enormous impact, especially on molecular imaging, targeted drug delivery techniques, and tissue engineering. The continuing efforts and advances in medical nanotechnology are expected to provide us with more personalized tools to improve risk assessment, the allocation of preventive therapy, and the monitoring of treatment efficacy for CVD.

This Special Issue aims to present an overview of this field, including recent developments in nanomedicine, in order to better understand the mechanisms of diseases and improve both the safety and the outcome of applying nanomedicinal products in CVD patients. Potential topics include, but not limited to:

  • Drug delivery to cardio-, cerebro-, retino-, and renovascular disorders;
  • Nano-agents for imaging myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, aneurysms, and thrombosis;
  • Nanotechnologies for CVD lipidomics, proteomics, and metabolomics;
  • Nano-patterned and nanoparticle-eluting stents;
  • Regenerative nanomedicine for vascular prostheses;
  • Cardiovascular risks related to intravascular nanomedicines;
  • Immuno-toxicology and immunogenicity of exposure by nanoparticles;
  • Nanoparticle-target cell interaction modeling.

We invite investigators to contribute original research articles, as well as review articles that will stimulate the continuing efforts in this exciting and continuously expanding field.

Dr. Iwona Cicha
Dr. László Dézsi
Dr. May Azzawi
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.

Keywords

  • cardiovascular drug delivery nanosystems;
  • thrombolytic nanoparticles;
  • nanoparticles for cardiac imaging;
  • nano-agents for the detection of atherosclerosis and thrombosis;
  • nanomaterials and nanofibers for cardiovascular regeneration;
  • nano-patterned vascular devices;
  • hypersensitvity reactions to nanomedicines and risk mitigation

Published Papers (15 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

11 pages, 2075 KiB  
Communication
Tetramethoxystilbene-Loaded Liposomes Restore Reactive-Oxygen-Species-Mediated Attenuation of Dilator Responses in Rat Aortic Vessels Ex vivo
by Azziza Zaabalawi, Cai Astley, Lewis Renshall, Frances Beards, Adam P. Lightfoot, Hans Degens, Debra Whitehead, Yvonne Alexander, Lynda K Harris and May Azzawi
Molecules 2019, 24(23), 4360; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24234360 - 29 Nov 2019
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4027
Abstract
The methylated analogue of the polyphenol resveratrol (RV), 2,3′,4,5′-tetramethoxystilbene (TMS) displays potent antioxidant properties and is an effective cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1B1 inhibitor. The bioavailability of TMS is low. Therefore, the use of liposomes for the encapsulation of TMS is a promising delivery [...] Read more.
The methylated analogue of the polyphenol resveratrol (RV), 2,3′,4,5′-tetramethoxystilbene (TMS) displays potent antioxidant properties and is an effective cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1B1 inhibitor. The bioavailability of TMS is low. Therefore, the use of liposomes for the encapsulation of TMS is a promising delivery modality for enhanced uptake into tissues. We examined the effect of delivery of TMS in liposomes on the restoration of vasodilator responses of isolated aortic vessels after acute tension elevation ex vivo. Aortic vessels from young male Wistar rats were isolated, and endothelial-dependent (acetylcholine, ACh) and -independent (sodium nitroprusside, SNP) responses assessed. Acute tension elevation (1 h) significantly reduced ACh dilator responses, which were restored following incubation with superoxide dismutase or apocynin (an NADPH oxidase inhibitor). Incubation with TMS-loaded liposomes (mean diameter 157 ± 6 nm; PDI 0.097) significantly improved the attenuated dilator responses following tension elevation, which was sustained over a longer period (4 h) when compared to TMS solution. Endothelial denudation or co-incubation with L-NNA (Nω-nitro-l-arginine; nitric oxide synthase inhibitor) resulted in loss of dilator function. Our findings suggest that TMS-loaded liposomes can restore attenuated endothelial-dependent dilator responses induced by an oxidative environment by reducing NADPH-oxidase-derived ROS and potentiating the release of the vasodilator nitric oxide. TMS-loaded liposomes may be a promising therapeutic strategy to restore vasodilator function in vascular disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 8289 KiB  
Article
Biodistribution of Nanostructured Lipid Carriers in Mice Atherosclerotic Model
by Laurent Devel, Gunter Almer, Claudia Cabella, Fabrice Beau, Mylène Bernes, Paolo Oliva, Fabrice Navarro, Ruth Prassl, Harald Mangge and Isabelle Texier
Molecules 2019, 24(19), 3499; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24193499 - 26 Sep 2019
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3761
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a major cardiovascular disease worldwide, that could benefit from innovative nanomedicine imaging tools and treatments. In this perspective, we here studied, by fluorescence imaging in ApoE-/- mice, the biodistribution of non-functionalized and RXP470.1-targeted nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) loaded with DiD [...] Read more.
Atherosclerosis is a major cardiovascular disease worldwide, that could benefit from innovative nanomedicine imaging tools and treatments. In this perspective, we here studied, by fluorescence imaging in ApoE-/- mice, the biodistribution of non-functionalized and RXP470.1-targeted nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) loaded with DiD dye. RXP470.1 specifically binds to MMP12, a metalloprotease that is over-expressed by macrophages residing in atherosclerotic plaques. Physico-chemical characterizations showed that RXP-NLC (about 105 RXP470.1 moieties/particle) displayed similar features as non-functionalized NLC in terms of particle diameter (about 60-65 nm), surface charge (about −5 — −10 mV), and colloidal stability. In vitro inhibition assays demonstrated that RXP-NLC conserved a selectivity and affinity profile, which favored MMP-12. In vivo data indicated that NLC and RXP-NLC presented prolonged blood circulation and accumulation in atherosclerotic lesions in a few hours. Twenty-four hours after injection, particle uptake in atherosclerotic plaques of the brachiocephalic artery was similar for both nanoparticles, as assessed by ex vivo imaging. This suggests that the RXP470.1 coating did not significantly induce an active targeting of the nanoparticles within the plaques. Overall, NLCs appeared to be very promising nanovectors to efficiently and specifically deliver imaging agents or drugs in atherosclerotic lesions, opening avenues for new nanomedicine strategies for cardiovascular diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1187 KiB  
Article
Complement Activation-Related Pathophysiological Changes in Anesthetized Rats: Activator-Dependent Variations of Symptoms and Mediators of Pseudoallergy
by László Dézsi, Tamás Mészáros, Erik Őrfi, Tamás G. Fülöp, Mark Hennies, László Rosivall, Péter Hamar, János Szebeni and Gábor Szénási
Molecules 2019, 24(18), 3283; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24183283 - 09 Sep 2019
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2889
Abstract
Complement (C) activation can underlie the infusion reactions to liposomes and other nanoparticle-based medicines, a hypersensitivity syndrome that can be partially reproduced in animal models. However, the sensitivities and manifestations substantially differ in different species, and C activation may not be the only [...] Read more.
Complement (C) activation can underlie the infusion reactions to liposomes and other nanoparticle-based medicines, a hypersensitivity syndrome that can be partially reproduced in animal models. However, the sensitivities and manifestations substantially differ in different species, and C activation may not be the only cause of pathophysiological changes. In order to map the species variation of C-dependent and -independent pseudoallergy (CARPA/CIPA), here we used known C activators and C activator liposomes to compare their acute hemodynamic, hematological, and biochemical effects in rats. These C activators were cobra venom factor (CVF), zymosan, AmBisome (at 2 doses), its amphotericin B-free vehicle (AmBisombo), and a PEGylated cholesterol-containing liposome (PEG-2000-chol), all having different powers to activate C in rat blood. The pathophysiological endpoints measured were blood pressure, leukocyte and platelet counts, and plasma thromboxane B2, while C activation was assessed by C3 consumption using the Pan-Specific C3 assay. The results showed strong linear correlation between C activation and systemic hypotension, pointing to a causal role of C activation in the hemodynamic changes. The observed thrombocytopenia and leukopenia followed by leukocytosis also correlated with C3 conversion in case of C activators, but not necessarily with C activation by liposomes. These findings are consistent with the double hit hypothesis of hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs), inasmuch as strong C activation can fully account for all symptoms of HSRs, but in case of no-, or weak C activators, the pathophysiological response, if any, is likely to involve other activation pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 4620 KiB  
Article
Protective Effects of Nanoparticle-Loaded Aliskiren on Cardiovascular System in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
by Olga Pechanova, Andrej Barta, Martina Koneracka, Vlasta Zavisova, Martina Kubovcikova, Jana Klimentova, Jozef Tӧrӧk, Anna Zemancikova and Martina Cebova
Molecules 2019, 24(15), 2710; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24152710 - 25 Jul 2019
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 2722
Abstract
Aliskiren, a renin inhibitor, has been shown to have cardioprotective and blood pressure (BP) lowering effects. We aimed to determine the effects of nanoparticle-loaded aliskiren on BP, nitric oxide synthase activity (NOS) and structural alterations of the heart and aorta developed due to [...] Read more.
Aliskiren, a renin inhibitor, has been shown to have cardioprotective and blood pressure (BP) lowering effects. We aimed to determine the effects of nanoparticle-loaded aliskiren on BP, nitric oxide synthase activity (NOS) and structural alterations of the heart and aorta developed due to spontaneous hypertension in rats. Twelve week-old male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were divided into the untreated group, group treated with powdered or nanoparticle-loaded aliskiren (25 mg/kg/day) and group treated with nanoparticles only for 3 weeks by gavage. BP was measured by tail-cuff plethysmography. NOS activity, eNOS and nNOS protein expressions, and collagen content were determined in both the heart and aorta. Vasoactivity of the mesenteric artery and wall thickness, inner diameter, and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the aorta were analyzed. After 3 weeks, BP was lower in both powdered and nanoparticle-loaded aliskiren groups with a more pronounced effect in the latter case. Only nanoparticle-loaded aliskiren increased the expression of nNOS along with increased NOS activity in the heart (by 30%). Moreover, nanoparticle-loaded aliskiren decreased vasoconstriction of the mesenteric artery and collagen content (by 11%), and CSA (by 25%) in the aorta compared to the powdered aliskiren group. In conclusion, nanoparticle-loaded aliskiren represents a promising drug with antihypertensive and cardioprotective effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 3010 KiB  
Article
The Flow Dependent Adhesion of von Willebrand Factor (VWF)-A1 Functionalized Nanoparticles in an in Vitro Coronary Stenosis Model
by Yathreb Asaad, Mark Epshtein, Andrew Yee and Netanel Korin
Molecules 2019, 24(15), 2679; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24152679 - 24 Jul 2019
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3559
Abstract
In arterial thrombosis, von Willebrand factor (VWF) bridges platelets to sites of vascular injury. The adhesive properties of VWF are controlled by its different domains, which may be engineered into ligands for targeting nanoparticles to vascular injuries. Here, we functionalized 200 nm polystyrene [...] Read more.
In arterial thrombosis, von Willebrand factor (VWF) bridges platelets to sites of vascular injury. The adhesive properties of VWF are controlled by its different domains, which may be engineered into ligands for targeting nanoparticles to vascular injuries. Here, we functionalized 200 nm polystyrene nanoparticles with the VWF-A1 domain and studied their spatial adhesion to collagen or collagen-VWF coated, real-sized coronary stenosis models under physiological flow. When VWF-A1 nano-particles (A1-NPs) were perfused through a 75% stenosis model coated with collagen-VWF, the particles preferentially adhered at the post stenotic region relative to the pre-stenosis region while much less adhesion was detected at the stenosis neck (~ 65-fold less). When infused through collagen-coated models or when the A1 coating density of nanoparticles was reduced by 100-fold, the enhanced adhesion at the post-stenotic site was abolished. In a 60% stenosis model, the adhesion of A1-NPs to collagen-VWF-coated models depended on the location examined within the stenosis. Altogether, our results indicate that VWF-A1 NPs exhibit a flow-structure dependent adhesion to VWF and illustrate the important role of studying cardiovascular nano-medicines in settings that closely model the size, geometry, and hemodynamics of pathological environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 4816 KiB  
Article
Magnetic Accumulation of SPIONs under Arterial Flow Conditions: Effect of Serum and Red Blood Cells
by Till L. Hennig, Harald Unterweger, Stefan Lyer, Christoph Alexiou and Iwona Cicha
Molecules 2019, 24(14), 2588; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24142588 - 16 Jul 2019
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2818
Abstract
Magnetic drug targeting utilizes an external magnetic field to target superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) and their cargo to the diseased vasculature regions. In the arteries, the flow conditions affect the behavior of magnetic particles and the efficacy of their accumulation. In order [...] Read more.
Magnetic drug targeting utilizes an external magnetic field to target superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) and their cargo to the diseased vasculature regions. In the arteries, the flow conditions affect the behavior of magnetic particles and the efficacy of their accumulation. In order to estimate the magnetic capture of SPIONs in more physiological-like settings, we previously established an ex vivo model based on human umbilical cord arteries. The artery model was employed in our present studies in order to analyze the effects of the blood components on the efficacy of magnetic targeting, utilizing 2 types of SPIONs with different physicochemical characteristics. In the presence of freshly isolated human plasma or whole blood, a strong increase in iron content measured by AES was observed for both particle types along the artery wall, in parallel with clotting activation due to endogenous thrombin generation in plasma. Subsequent studies therefore utilized SPION suspensions in serum and washed red blood cells (RBCs) at hematocrit 50%. Interestingly, in contrast to cell culture medium suspensions, magnetic accumulation of circulating SPION-3 under the external magnet was achieved in the presence of RBCs. Taken together, our data shows that the presence of blood components affects, but does not prevent, the magnetic accumulation of circulating SPIONs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

22 pages, 8850 KiB  
Article
Hemodynamic Effects on Particle Targeting in the Arterial Bifurcation for Different Magnet Positions
by Sandor I. Bernad, Daniela Susan-Resiga and Elena S. Bernad
Molecules 2019, 24(13), 2509; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24132509 - 09 Jul 2019
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4626
Abstract
The present study investigated the possibilities and feasibility of drug targeting for an arterial bifurcation lesion to influence the host healing response. A micrometer sized iron particle was used only to model the magnetic carrier in the experimental investigation (not intended for clinical [...] Read more.
The present study investigated the possibilities and feasibility of drug targeting for an arterial bifurcation lesion to influence the host healing response. A micrometer sized iron particle was used only to model the magnetic carrier in the experimental investigation (not intended for clinical use), to demonstrate the feasibility of the particle targeting at the lesion site and facilitate the new experimental investigations using coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. Magnetic fields were generated by a single permanent external magnet (ferrite magnet). Artery bifurcation exerts severe impacts on drug distribution, both in the main vessel and the branches, practically inducing an uneven drug concentration distribution in the bifurcation lesion area. There are permanently positioned magnets in the vicinity of the bifurcation near the diseased area. The generated magnetic field induced deviation of the injected ferromagnetic particles and were captured onto the vessel wall of the test section. To increase the particle accumulation in the targeted region and consequently avoid the polypharmacology (interaction of the injected drug particles with multiple target sites), it is critical to understand flow hemodynamics and the correlation between flow structure, magnetic field gradient, and spatial position. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 4372 KiB  
Article
Phagocytosis of a PFOB-Nanoemulsion for 19F Magnetic Resonance Imaging: First Results in Monocytes of Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease and ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
by Fabian Nienhaus, Denise Colley, Annika Jahn, Susanne Pfeiler, Vera Flocke, Sebastian Temme, Malte Kelm, Norbert Gerdes, Ulrich Flögel and Florian Bönner
Molecules 2019, 24(11), 2058; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24112058 - 30 May 2019
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4617
Abstract
Fluorine-19 magnetic resonance imaging (19F MRI) with intravenously applied perfluorooctyl bromide-nanoemulsions (PFOB-NE) has proven its feasibility to visualize inflammatory processes in experimental disease models. This approach is based on the properties of monocytes/macrophages to ingest PFOB-NE particles enabling specific cell tracking [...] Read more.
Fluorine-19 magnetic resonance imaging (19F MRI) with intravenously applied perfluorooctyl bromide-nanoemulsions (PFOB-NE) has proven its feasibility to visualize inflammatory processes in experimental disease models. This approach is based on the properties of monocytes/macrophages to ingest PFOB-NE particles enabling specific cell tracking in vivo. However, information on safety (cellular function and viability), mechanism of ingestion and impact of specific disease environment on PFOB-NE uptake is lacking. This information is, however, crucial for the interpretation of 19F MRI signals and a possible translation to clinical application. To address these issues, whole blood samples were collected from patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) and healthy volunteers. Samples were exposed to fluorescently-labeled PFOB-NE and particle uptake, cell viability and migration activity was evaluated by flow cytometry and MRI. We were able to show that PFOB-NE is ingested by human monocytes in a time- and subset-dependent manner via active phagocytosis. Monocyte function (migration, phagocytosis) and viability was maintained after PFOB-NE uptake. Monocytes of STEMI and SCAD patients did not differ in their maximal PFOB-NE uptake compared to healthy controls. In sum, our study provides further evidence for a safe translation of PFOB-NE for imaging purposes in humans. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3507 KiB  
Article
Bimodal Fucoidan-Coated Zinc Oxide/Iron Oxide-Based Nanoparticles for the Imaging of Atherothrombosis
by Hoang Nguyen, Eric Tinet, Thierry Chauveau, Frédéric Geinguenaud, Yoann Lalatonne, Aude Michel, Rachida Aid-Launais, Clément Journé, Caroline Lefèbvre, Teresa Simon-Yarza, Laurence Motte, Noureddine Jouini, Jean-Michel Tualle and Frédéric Chaubet
Molecules 2019, 24(5), 962; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24050962 - 08 Mar 2019
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3532
Abstract
A polyol method was used to obtain ultrasmall ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) doped with iron ions and coated with a low molecular weight fucoidan in order to perform in vivo MR and ex vivo fluorescence imaging of athrothrombosis. During the synthesis, the early elimination [...] Read more.
A polyol method was used to obtain ultrasmall ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) doped with iron ions and coated with a low molecular weight fucoidan in order to perform in vivo MR and ex vivo fluorescence imaging of athrothrombosis. During the synthesis, the early elimination of water by azeotropic distillation with toluene allowed us to produce NPs which size, determined by XRD and TEM, decreased from 7 nm to 4 nm with the increase of iron/zinc ratios from 0.05 to 0.50 respectively. For the highest iron content (NP-0.50) NPs were evidenced as a mixture of nanocrystals made of wurtzite and cubic phase with a molar ratio of 2.57:1, although it was not possible to distinguish one from the other by TEM. NP-0.50 were superparamagnetic and exhibited a large emission spectrum at 470 nm when excited at 370 nm. After surface functionalization of NP-0.50 with fucoidan (fuco-0.50), the hydrodynamic size in the physiological medium was 162.0 ± 0.4 nm, with a corresponding negative zeta potential of −48.7 ± 0.4 mV, respectively. The coating was evidenced by FT-IR spectra and thermogravimetric analysis. Aqueous suspensions of fuco-0.50 revealed high transverse proton relaxivities (T2) with an r2 value of 173.5 mM−1 s−1 (300 K, 7.0 T) and remained stable for more than 3 months in water or in phosphate buffer saline without evolution of the hydrodynamic size and size distribution. No cytotoxic effect was observed on human endothelial cells up to 48 h with these NPs at a dose of 0.1 mg/mL. After injection into a rat model of atherothrombosis, MR imaging allowed the localization of diseased areas and the subsequent fluorescence imaging of thrombus on tissue slices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

17 pages, 1047 KiB  
Review
Small Dimension—Big Impact! Nanoparticle-Enhanced Non-Invasive and Intravascular Molecular Imaging of Atherosclerosis In Vivo
by Tobias Lenz, Philipp Nicol, Maria Isabel Castellanos, Leif-Christopher Engel, Anna Lena Lahmann, Christoph Alexiou and Michael Joner
Molecules 2020, 25(5), 1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25051029 - 25 Feb 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3057
Abstract
Extensive translational research has provided considerable progress regarding the understanding of atherosclerosis pathophysiology over the last decades. In contrast, implementation of molecular in vivo imaging remains highly limited. In that context, nanoparticles represent a useful tool. Their variable shape and composition assure biocompatibility [...] Read more.
Extensive translational research has provided considerable progress regarding the understanding of atherosclerosis pathophysiology over the last decades. In contrast, implementation of molecular in vivo imaging remains highly limited. In that context, nanoparticles represent a useful tool. Their variable shape and composition assure biocompatibility and stability within the environment of intended use, while the possibility of conjugating different ligands as well as contrast dyes enable targeting of moieties of interest on a molecular level and visualization throughout various imaging modalities. These characteristics have been exploited by a number of preclinical research approaches aimed at advancing understanding of vascular atherosclerotic disease, in order to improve identification of high-risk lesions prior to oftentimes fatal thromboembolic events. Furthermore, the combination of these targeted nanoparticles with therapeutic agents offers the potential of site-targeted drug delivery with minimized systemic secondary effects. This review gives an overview of different groups of targeted nanoparticles, designed for in vivo molecular imaging of atherosclerosis as well as an outlook on potential combined diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1970 KiB  
Review
Targeted Delivery of Plasminogen Activators for Thrombolytic Therapy: An Integrative Evaluation
by Yunn-Hwa Ma, Chih-Hsin Liu, Yueh Liang, Jyh-Ping Chen and Tony Wu
Molecules 2019, 24(18), 3407; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24183407 - 19 Sep 2019
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3668
Abstract
In thrombolytic therapy, plasminogen activators (PAs) are still the only group of drug approved to induce thrombolysis, and therefore, critical for treatment of arterial thromboembolism, such as stroke, in the acute phase. Functionalized nanocomposites have attracted great attention in achieving target thrombolysis due [...] Read more.
In thrombolytic therapy, plasminogen activators (PAs) are still the only group of drug approved to induce thrombolysis, and therefore, critical for treatment of arterial thromboembolism, such as stroke, in the acute phase. Functionalized nanocomposites have attracted great attention in achieving target thrombolysis due to favorable characteristics associated with the size, surface properties and targeting effects. Many PA-conjugated nanocomposites have been prepared and characterized, and some of them has been demonstrated with therapeutic efficacy in animal models. To facilitate future translation, this paper reviews recent progress of this area, especially focus on how to achieve reproducible thrombolysis efficacy in vivo. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 248 KiB  
Review
Immune-Mediated Inflammation in Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaques
by Harald Mangge and Gunter Almer
Molecules 2019, 24(17), 3072; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24173072 - 23 Aug 2019
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 3386
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic long-lasting vascular disease leading to myocardial infarction and stroke. Vulnerable atherosclerotic (AS) plaques are responsible for these life-threatening clinical endpoints. To more successfully work against atherosclerosis, improvements in early diagnosis and treatment of AS plaque lesions are required. Vulnerable [...] Read more.
Atherosclerosis is a chronic long-lasting vascular disease leading to myocardial infarction and stroke. Vulnerable atherosclerotic (AS) plaques are responsible for these life-threatening clinical endpoints. To more successfully work against atherosclerosis, improvements in early diagnosis and treatment of AS plaque lesions are required. Vulnerable AS plaques are frequently undetectable by conventional imaging because they are non-stenotic. Although blood biomarkers like lipids, C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, troponins, and natriuretic peptides are in pathological ranges, these markers are insufficient in detecting the critical perpetuation of AS anteceding endpoints. Thus, chances to treat the patient in a preventive way are wasted. It is now time to solve this dilemma because clear results indicate a benefit of anti-inflammatory therapy per se without modification of blood lipids (CANTOS Trial, NCT01327846). This fact identifies modulation of immune-mediated inflammation as a new promising point of action for the eradication of fatal atherosclerotic endpoints. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
28 pages, 3973 KiB  
Review
Artificial High Density Lipoprotein Nanoparticles in Cardiovascular Research
by Karin Kornmueller, Ivan Vidakovic and Ruth Prassl
Molecules 2019, 24(15), 2829; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24152829 - 02 Aug 2019
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 8403
Abstract
Lipoproteins are endogenous nanoparticles which are the major transporter of fats and cholesterol in the human body. They play a key role in the regulatory mechanisms of cardiovascular events. Lipoproteins can be modified and manipulated to act as drug delivery systems or nanocarriers [...] Read more.
Lipoproteins are endogenous nanoparticles which are the major transporter of fats and cholesterol in the human body. They play a key role in the regulatory mechanisms of cardiovascular events. Lipoproteins can be modified and manipulated to act as drug delivery systems or nanocarriers for contrast agents. In particular, high density lipoproteins (HDL), which are the smallest class of lipoproteins, can be synthetically engineered either as nascent HDL nanodiscs or spherical HDL nanoparticles. Reconstituted HDL (rHDL) particles are formed by self-assembly of various lipids and apolipoprotein AI (apo-AI). A variety of substances including drugs, nucleic acids, signal emitting molecules, or dyes can be loaded, making them efficient nanocarriers for therapeutic applications or medical diagnostics. This review provides an overview about synthesis techniques, physicochemical properties of rHDL nanoparticles, and structural determinants for rHDL function. We discuss recent developments utilizing either apo-AI or apo-AI mimetic peptides for the design of pharmaceutical rHDL formulations. Advantages, limitations, challenges, and prospects for clinical translation are evaluated with a special focus on promising strategies for the treatment and diagnosis of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 1408 KiB  
Review
Nanotechnology Approaches in Tackling Cardiovascular Diseases
by Ray Putra Prajnamitra, Hung-Chih Chen, Chen-Ju Lin, Li-Lun Chen and Patrick Ching-Ho Hsieh
Molecules 2019, 24(10), 2017; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24102017 - 27 May 2019
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 5159
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases have continued to remain a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Poor proliferation capability of adult cardiomyocytes disables the heart from regenerating new myocardium after a myocardial ischaemia event and therefore weakens the heart in the long term, which may [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular diseases have continued to remain a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Poor proliferation capability of adult cardiomyocytes disables the heart from regenerating new myocardium after a myocardial ischaemia event and therefore weakens the heart in the long term, which may result in heart failure and death. Delivery of cardioprotective therapeutics soon after the event can help to protect the heart from further cell death and improve cardiac function, but delivery methods and potential side effects of these therapeutics may be an issue. Advances in nanotechnology, particularly nanoparticles for drug delivery, have enabled researchers to obtain better drug targeting capability, thus increasing the therapeutic outcome. Detailed study of nanoparticles in vivo is useful as it can provide insight for future treatments. Nanogel can help to create a more favourable environment, not only for a sustained delivery of therapeutics, but also for a better navigation of the therapeutics to the targeted sites. Finally, if the damage to the myocardium is too severe for drug treatment, nanopatch can help to improve cardiac function and healing by becoming a platform for pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes to grow for the purpose of cell-based regenerative therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

9 pages, 226 KiB  
Opinion
Long-Acting Injectable Statins—Is It Time for a Paradigm Shift?
by Lee M. Tatham, Neill J. Liptrott, Steve P. Rannard and Andrew Owen
Molecules 2019, 24(15), 2685; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24152685 - 24 Jul 2019
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3559
Abstract
In recent years, advances in pharmaceutical processing technologies have resulted in development of medicines that provide therapeutic pharmacokinetic exposure for a period ranging from weeks to months following a single parenteral administration. Benefits for adherence, dose and patient satisfaction have been witnessed across [...] Read more.
In recent years, advances in pharmaceutical processing technologies have resulted in development of medicines that provide therapeutic pharmacokinetic exposure for a period ranging from weeks to months following a single parenteral administration. Benefits for adherence, dose and patient satisfaction have been witnessed across a range of indications from contraception to schizophrenia, with a range of long-acting medicines also in development for infectious diseases such as HIV. Existing drugs that have successfully been formulated as long-acting injectable formulations have long pharmacokinetic half-lives, low target plasma exposures, and low aqueous solubility. Of the statins that are clinically used currently, atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, and pitavastatin may have compatibility with this approach. The case for development of long-acting injectable statins is set out within this manuscript for this important class of life-saving drugs. An overview of some of the potential development and implementation challenges is also presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Nanomedicines and Nanomaterials )
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-15
Back to TopTop