Nanomaterials

Editorial

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4 pages, 194 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Special Issue “Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications”

by Angelo Ferraro

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(11), 1923; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12111923 - 4 Jun 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1509

Abstract

In the last few decades, biomedical and biotechnological researchers have turned their interest to nanocomposite materials [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

Research

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16 pages, 7884 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Novel Methotrexate-Loaded Nanoemulsion for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment with Site-Specific Targeting Subcutaneous Delivery

by Parvathy Suresh, Mounir M. Salem-Bekhit, Hafsa Palathum Veedu, Sultan Alshehri, Sreeja Chandrasekhar Nair, Sarah I. Bukhari, Vidya Viswanad, Ehab I. Taha, Ram Kumar Sahu, Mohammed M. Ghoneim and Ibrahim Elbagory

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(8), 1299; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12081299 - 11 Apr 2022

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4017

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic, chronic autoimmune disease that causes disability due to progressive inflammation and destruction of the tissues around the joints. Methotrexate is mainly used to prevent the progression of joint destruction and reduce the deformity. The major challenge in [...] Read more.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic, chronic autoimmune disease that causes disability due to progressive inflammation and destruction of the tissues around the joints. Methotrexate is mainly used to prevent the progression of joint destruction and reduce the deformity. The major challenge in treating RA with methotrexate is the systemic side effects that limit dose escalation. Hence, a novel formulation of a methotrexate-loaded nanoemulsion for subcutaneous administration was developed that aims to deliver methotrexate into the system via the lymph. The methotrexate-loaded nanoemulsion was prepared by using the aqueous-titration method. The prepared nanoemulsion was investigated for particle size, surface charge, surface morphology, entrapment efficiency, DSC (differential scanning colorimetry), drug release, hemocompatibility assay, and cytotoxicity, as well as anti-arthritic and stability studies. The vesicle size, zeta potential, PDI (polydispersity index), and entrapment efficiency of the optimized nanoemulsion were 87.89 ± 2.86 nm, 35.9 ± 0.73 mV, 0.27, and 87 ± 0.25%, respectively. The DSC study showed that the crystalline methotrexate was converted to an amorphous form and the drug was fully incorporated into the vesicles. After 72 h, the optimized nanoemulsion showed a drug release of 96.77 ± 0.63%, indicating a sustained-release dosage form. Cytocompatibility testing by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide) assay on macrophage cell lines showed that the nanoemulsion was non-toxic. The formulation showed significant anti-arthritic activity compared to the marketed drug solution. In addition, the nanoemulsion containing methotrexate remained stable for three months when stored at a low temperature. Since the nanoemulsion containing methotrexate has excellent physicochemical properties and lowers systemic side effects by targeted delivery, it is a desirable technology for subcutaneous drug delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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14 pages, 2422 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ciprofloxacin-Loaded Gold Nanoparticles against Antimicrobial Resistance: An In Vivo Assessment

by Afrah Nawaz, Syed Mohsin Ali, Nosheen Fatima Rana, Tahreem Tanweer, Amna Batool, Thomas J. Webster, Farid Menaa, Sundus Riaz, Zahra Rehman, Farhat Batool, Misha Fatima, Tuba Maryam, Iqra Shafique, Abida Saleem and Arfa Iqbal

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(11), 3152; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11113152 - 22 Nov 2021

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 5390

Abstract

Metallic nanoparticles, such as gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), have been extensively studied as drug delivery systems for various therapeutic applications. However, drug-loaded-AuNPs have been rarely explored in vivo for their effect on bacteria residing inside tissues. Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is a second-generation fluoroquinolone with a [...] Read more.

Metallic nanoparticles, such as gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), have been extensively studied as drug delivery systems for various therapeutic applications. However, drug-loaded-AuNPs have been rarely explored in vivo for their effect on bacteria residing inside tissues. Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is a second-generation fluoroquinolone with a broad-spectrum of antibiotic properties devoid of developing bacteria resistance. This research is focused on the synthesis and physical characterization of Ciprofloxacin-loaded gold nanoparticles (CIP-AuNPs) and their effect on the colonization of Enterococcus faecalis in the liver and kidneys of mice. The successfully prepared CIP-AuNPs were stable and exerted enhanced in vitro antibacterial activity against E. faecalis compared with free CIP. The optimized CIP-AuNPs were administered (500 µg/Kg) once a day via tail vein to infected mice for eight days and were found to be effective in eradicating E. faecalis from the host tissues. Moreover, unlike CIP, CIP-AuNPs were non-hemolytic. In summary, this study demonstrated that CIP-AuNPs are promising and biocompatible alternative therapeutics for E.-faecalis-induced infections resistant to conventional drugs (e.g., beta-lactams and vancomycin) and should be further investigated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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13 pages, 4276 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential Production of Theranostic Boron Nitride Nanotubes (⁶⁴Cu-BNNTs) Radiolabeled by Neutron Capture

by Wellington Marcos Silva, Helio Ribeiro and Jose Jaime Taha-Tijerina

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(11), 2907; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11112907 - 30 Oct 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3659

Abstract

In this work, the radioisotope ⁶⁴Cu was obtained from copper (II) chloride dihydrate in a nuclear research reactor by neutron capture, (⁶³Cu(n,γ)⁶⁴Cu), and incorporated into boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) using a solvothermal process. The produced ⁶⁴Cu-BNNTs were [...] Read more.

In this work, the radioisotope ⁶⁴Cu was obtained from copper (II) chloride dihydrate in a nuclear research reactor by neutron capture, (⁶³Cu(n,γ)⁶⁴Cu), and incorporated into boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) using a solvothermal process. The produced ⁶⁴Cu-BNNTs were analyzed by TEM, MEV, FTIR, XDR, XPS and gamma spectrometry, with which it was possible to observe the formation of⁶⁴Cu nanoparticles, with sizes of up to 16 nm, distributed through nanotubes. The synthesized of ⁶⁴Cu nanostructures showed a pure photoemission peak of 511 keV, which is characteristic of gamma radiation. This type of emission is desirable for Photon Emission Tomography (PET scan) image acquisition, as well as its use in several cancer treatments. Thus, ⁶⁴Cu-BNNTs present an excellent alternative as theranostic nanomaterials that can be used in diagnosis and therapy by different techniques used in nuclear medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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12 pages, 1908 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polycaprolactone Composite Micro/Nanofibrous Material as an Alternative to Restricted Access Media for Direct Extraction and Separation of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs from Human Serum Using Column-Switching Chromatography

by Hedvika Raabová, Lucie Chocholoušová Havlíková, Jakub Erben, Jiří Chvojka, František Švec and Dalibor Šatínský

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(10), 2669; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11102669 - 12 Oct 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2250

Abstract

Application of the poly-ɛ-caprolactone composite sorbent consisting of the micro- and nanometer fibers for the on-line extraction of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs from a biological matrix has been introduced. A 100 μL human serum sample spiked with ketoprofen, naproxen, sodium diclofenac, and indomethacin was [...] Read more.

Application of the poly-ɛ-caprolactone composite sorbent consisting of the micro- and nanometer fibers for the on-line extraction of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs from a biological matrix has been introduced. A 100 μL human serum sample spiked with ketoprofen, naproxen, sodium diclofenac, and indomethacin was directly injected in the extraction cartridge filled with the poly-ɛ-caprolactone composite sorbent. This cartridge was coupled with a chromatographic instrument via a six-port switching valve allowing the analyte extraction and separation within a single analytical run. The 1.5 min long extraction step isolated the analytes from the proteinaceous matrix was followed by their 13 min HPLC separation using Ascentis Express RP-Amide (100 × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) column. The recovery of all analytes from human serum tested at three concentration levels ranged from 70.1% to 118.7%. The matrix calibrations were carried out in the range 50 to 20,000 ng mL⁻¹ with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.996. The detection limit was 15 ng mL⁻¹, and the limit of quantification corresponded to 50 ng mL⁻¹. The developed method was validated and successfully applied for the sodium diclofenac determination in real patient serum. Our study confirmed the ability of the poly-ɛ-caprolactone composite sorbent to remove the proteins from the biological matrix, thus serving as an alternative to the application of restricted-access media. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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17 pages, 2322 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cubic Nanoparticles for Magnetic Hyperthermia: Process Optimization and Potential Industrial Implementation

by Omar Sánchez Sánchez, Teresa Castelo-Grande, Paulo A. Augusto, José M. Compaña and Domingos Barbosa

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(7), 1652; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11071652 - 23 Jun 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2919

Abstract

Cubic nanoparticles are referred to as the best shaped particles for magnetic hyperthermia applications. In this work, the best set of values for obtaining optimized shape and size of magnetic particles (namely: reagents quantities and proportions, type of solvents, temperature, etc.) is determined. [...] Read more.

Cubic nanoparticles are referred to as the best shaped particles for magnetic hyperthermia applications. In this work, the best set of values for obtaining optimized shape and size of magnetic particles (namely: reagents quantities and proportions, type of solvents, temperature, etc.) is determined. A full industrial implementation study is also performed, including production system design and technical and economic viability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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18 pages, 3516 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Microalga Chlorella vulgaris Magnetic Harvesting

by Maria G. Savvidou, Maria Myrto Dardavila, Ioulia Georgiopoulou, Vasiliki Louli, Haralambos Stamatis, Dimitris Kekos and Epaminondas Voutsas

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(6), 1614; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11061614 - 20 Jun 2021

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 4179

Abstract

Harvesting of microalgae is a crucial step in microalgae-based mass production of different high value-added products. In the present work, magnetic harvesting of Chlorella vulgaris was investigated using microwave-synthesized naked magnetite (Fe₃O₄) particles with an average crystallite diameter of [...] Read more.

Harvesting of microalgae is a crucial step in microalgae-based mass production of different high value-added products. In the present work, magnetic harvesting of Chlorella vulgaris was investigated using microwave-synthesized naked magnetite (Fe₃O₄) particles with an average crystallite diameter of 20 nm. Optimization of the most important parameters of the magnetic harvesting process, namely pH, mass ratio (m_r) of magnetite particles to biomass (g/g), and agitation speed (rpm) of the C. vulgaris biomass–Fe₃O₄ particles mixture, was performed using the response surface methodology (RSM) statistical tool. Harvesting efficiencies higher than 99% were obtained for pH 3.0 and mixing speed greater or equal to 350 rpm. Recovery of magnetic particles via detachment was shown to be feasible and the recovery particles could be reused at least five times with high harvesting efficiency. Consequently, the described harvesting approach of C. vulgaris cells leads to an efficient, simple, and quick process, that does not impair the quality of the harvested biomass. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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17 pages, 3855 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Local and Systemic In Vivo Responses to Osseointegrative Titanium Nanotube Surfaces

by Erin A. Baker, Mackenzie M. Fleischer, Alexander D. Vara, Meagan R. Salisbury, Kevin C. Baker, Paul T. Fortin and Craig R. Friedrich

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(3), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11030583 - 26 Feb 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2252

Abstract

Orthopedic implants requiring osseointegration are often surface modified; however, implants may shed these coatings and generate wear debris leading to complications. Titanium nanotubes (TiNT), a new surface treatment, may promote osseointegration. In this study, in vitro (rat marrow-derived bone marrow cell attachment and [...] Read more.

Orthopedic implants requiring osseointegration are often surface modified; however, implants may shed these coatings and generate wear debris leading to complications. Titanium nanotubes (TiNT), a new surface treatment, may promote osseointegration. In this study, in vitro (rat marrow-derived bone marrow cell attachment and morphology) and in vivo (rat model of intramedullary fixation) experiments characterized local and systemic responses of two TiNT surface morphologies, aligned and trabecular, via animal and remote organ weight, metal ion, hematologic, and nondecalcified histologic analyses. In vitro experiments showed total adherent cells on trabecular and aligned TiNT surfaces were greater than control at 30 min and 4 h, and cells were smaller in diameter and more eccentric. Control animals gained more weight, on average; however, no animals met the institutional trigger for weight loss. No hematologic parameters (complete blood count with differential) were significantly different for TiNT groups vs. control. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) showed greater aluminum levels in the lungs of the trabecular TiNT group than in those of the controls. Histologic analysis demonstrated no inflammatory infiltrate, cytotoxic, or necrotic conditions in proximity of K-wires. There were significantly fewer eosinophils/basophils and neutrophils in the distal region of trabecular TiNT-implanted femora; and, in the midshaft of aligned TiNT-implanted femora, there were significantly fewer foreign body giant/multinucleated cells and neutrophils, indicating a decreased immune response in aligned TiNT-implanted femora compared to controls. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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21 pages, 3799 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Citrate and Lipid-Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles in Dehydropeptide Supramolecular Magnetogels: Properties, Design and Drug Release

by Sérgio R. S. Veloso, Joana F. G. Silva, Loic Hilliou, Cacilda Moura, Paulo J. G. Coutinho, José A. Martins, Martín Testa-Anta, Verónica Salgueiriño, Miguel A. Correa-Duarte, Paula M. T. Ferreira and Elisabete M. S. Castanheira

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11010016 - 23 Dec 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4938

Abstract

Currently, the nanoparticle functionalization effect on supramolecular peptide-based hydrogels remains undescribed, but is expected to affect the hydrogels’ self-assembly and final magnetic gel properties. Herein, two different functionalized nanoparticles: citrate-stabilized (14.4 ± 2.6 nm) and lipid-coated (8.9 ± 2.1 nm) magnetic nanoparticles, were [...] Read more.

Currently, the nanoparticle functionalization effect on supramolecular peptide-based hydrogels remains undescribed, but is expected to affect the hydrogels’ self-assembly and final magnetic gel properties. Herein, two different functionalized nanoparticles: citrate-stabilized (14.4 ± 2.6 nm) and lipid-coated (8.9 ± 2.1 nm) magnetic nanoparticles, were used for the formation of dehydropeptide-based supramolecular magnetogels consisting of the ultra-short hydrogelator Cbz-L-Met-Z-ΔPhe-OH, with an assessment of their effect over gel properties. The lipid-coated nanoparticles were distributed along the hydrogel fibers, while citrate-stabilized nanoparticles were aggregated upon gelation, which resulted into a heating efficiency improvement and decrease, respectively. Further, the lipid-coated nanoparticles did not affect drug encapsulation and displayed improved drug release reproducibility compared to citrate-stabilized nanoparticles, despite the latter attaining a stronger AMF-trigger. This report points out that adsorption of nanoparticles to hydrogel fibers, which display domains that improve or do not affect drug encapsulation, can be explored as a means to optimize the development of supramolecular magnetogels to advance theranostic applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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11 pages, 1464 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Papain Covalently Immobilized on Chitosan–Clay Nanocomposite Films: Application in Synthetic and Real White Wine

by Ilaria Benucci, Claudio Lombardelli, Ilaria Cacciotti and Marco Esti

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(9), 1622; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10091622 - 19 Aug 2020

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 3000

Abstract

Increasing attention has been recently paid to the development of nanocomposite materials for food application as new tool to enhance the mechanical and thermal properties of polymers. In this study, novel chitosan–clay nanocomposite films were produced as carriers for the covalent immobilization of [...] Read more.

Increasing attention has been recently paid to the development of nanocomposite materials for food application as new tool to enhance the mechanical and thermal properties of polymers. In this study, novel chitosan–clay nanocomposite films were produced as carriers for the covalent immobilization of papain, by using a fixed amount of chitosan (1% w/v) and a food-grade activated montmorillonite (Optigel, OPT) or a high-purity unmodified montmorillonite (SMP), in four different weight percentages with respect to chitosan (i.e., 20, 30, 50, 70% w/w). Both nanoclays (OPT and SMP) improved the mechanical properties of the obtained nanocomposites, and the OPT films showed the highest Young modulus and mechanical resistance (σ_max). The nanocomposites were used as carriers for the covalent immobilization of papain, which was preliminarily characterized in model wine towards a synthetic substrate, showing the highest efficiency in the release of the reaction product when it was bound on OPT-30 and OPT-50 films. Finally, the latter biocatalyst (papain on OPT-50 film) was applied for the protein stabilization of two different unfined white wines, and it efficiently reduced both the haze potential and the protein content. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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10 pages, 2734 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pushing of Magnetic Microdroplet Using Electromagnetic Actuation System

by Georgios Banis, Konstantinos Tyrovolas, Spyridon Angelopoulos, Angelo Ferraro and Evangelos Hristoforou

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(2), 371; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10020371 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3811

Abstract

Treatment of certain diseases requires the administration of drugs at specific areas of tissues and/or organs to increase therapy effectiveness and avoid side effects that may harm the rest of the body. Drug targeting is a research field that uses various techniques to [...] Read more.

Treatment of certain diseases requires the administration of drugs at specific areas of tissues and/or organs to increase therapy effectiveness and avoid side effects that may harm the rest of the body. Drug targeting is a research field that uses various techniques to administrate therapies at specific areas of the body, including magnetic systems able to drive nano “vehicles”, as well as magnetically labeled molecules, in human body fluids and tissues. Most available actuation systems can only attract magnetic elements in a relatively small workspace, limiting drug target applications to superficial tissues, and leaving no alternative cases where deep targeting is necessary. In this paper, we propose an electromagnetic actuation system able to push and deflect magnetic particles at distance of ~10 cm, enabling the manipulation of magnetic nano- and microparticles, as well as administration of drugs in tissues, which are not eligible for localized drug targeting with state-of-the-art systems. Laboratory experiments and modeling were conducted to prove the effectiveness of the proposed system. By further implementing our device, areas of the human body that previously were impossible to treat with magnetically labeled materials such as drugs, cells, and small molecules can now be accessible using the described system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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Review

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28 pages, 8441 KiB

Open AccessReview

Molecular Pathogenesis of Colorectal Cancer with an Emphasis on Recent Advances in Biomarkers, as Well as Nanotechnology-Based Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches

by Fakhria A. Al-Joufi, Aseem Setia, Mounir M. Salem-Bekhit, Ram Kumar Sahu, Fulwah Y. Alqahtani, Retno Widyowati and Fadilah Sfouq Aleanizy

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(1), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12010169 - 4 Jan 2022

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 12296

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a serious disease that affects millions of people throughout the world, despite considerable advances in therapy. The formation of colorectal adenomas and invasive adenocarcinomas is the consequence of a succession of genetic and epigenetic changes in the normal colonic [...] Read more.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a serious disease that affects millions of people throughout the world, despite considerable advances in therapy. The formation of colorectal adenomas and invasive adenocarcinomas is the consequence of a succession of genetic and epigenetic changes in the normal colonic epithelium. Genetic and epigenetic processes associated with the onset, development, and metastasis of sporadic CRC have been studied in depth, resulting in identifying biomarkers that might be used to predict behaviour and prognosis beyond staging and influence therapeutic options. A novel biomarker, or a group of biomarkers, must be discovered in order to build an accurate and clinically useful test that may be used as an alternative to conventional methods for the early detection of CRC and to identify prospective new therapeutic intervention targets. To minimise the mortality burden of colorectal cancer, new screening methods with higher accuracy and nano-based diagnostic precision are needed. Cytotoxic medication has negative side effects and is restricted by medication resistance. One of the most promising cancer treatment techniques is the use of nano-based carrier system as a medication delivery mechanism. To deliver cytotoxic medicines, targeted nanoparticles might take advantage of differently expressed molecules on the surface of cancer cells. The use of different compounds as ligands on the surface of nanoparticles to interact with cancer cells, enabling the efficient delivery of antitumor medicines. Formulations based on nanoparticles might aid in early cancer diagnosis and help to overcome the limitations of traditional treatments, including low water solubility, nonspecific biodistribution, and restricted bioavailability. This article addresses about the molecular pathogenesis of CRC and highlights about biomarkers. It also provides conceptual knowledge of nanotechnology-based diagnostic techniques and therapeutic approaches for malignant colorectal cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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27 pages, 1577 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nanotechnology Integration for SARS-CoV-2 Diagnosis and Treatment: An Approach to Preventing Pandemic

by Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin Asdaq, Abu Md Ashif Ikbal, Ram Kumar Sahu, Bedanta Bhattacharjee, Tirna Paul, Bhargab Deka, Santosh Fattepur, Retno Widyowati, Joshi Vijaya, Mohammed Al mohaini, Abdulkhaliq J. Alsalman, Mohd. Imran, Sreeharsha Nagaraja, Anroop B. Nair, Mahesh Attimarad and Katharigatta N. Venugopala

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(7), 1841; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11071841 - 16 Jul 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6658

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak is the COVID-19 disease, which has caused massive health devastation, prompting the World Health Organization to declare a worldwide health emergency. The corona virus infected millions of people worldwide, and many died as a result of a lack of particular [...] Read more.

The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak is the COVID-19 disease, which has caused massive health devastation, prompting the World Health Organization to declare a worldwide health emergency. The corona virus infected millions of people worldwide, and many died as a result of a lack of particular medications. The current emergency necessitates extensive therapy in order to stop the spread of the coronavirus. There are various vaccinations available, but no validated COVID-19 treatments. Since its outbreak, many therapeutics have been tested, including the use of repurposed medications, nucleoside inhibitors, protease inhibitors, broad spectrum antivirals, convalescence plasma therapies, immune-modulators, and monoclonal antibodies. However, these approaches have not yielded any outcomes and are mostly used to alleviate symptoms associated with potentially fatal adverse drug reactions. Nanoparticles, on the other hand, may prove to be an effective treatment for COVID-19. They can be designed to boost the efficacy of currently available antiviral medications or to trigger a rapid immune response against COVID-19. In the last decade, there has been significant progress in nanotechnology. This review focuses on the virus’s basic structure, pathogenesis, and current treatment options for COVID-19. This study addresses nanotechnology and its applications in diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and targeted vaccine delivery, laying the groundwork for a successful pandemic fight. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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18 pages, 921 KiB

Open AccessReview

Emerging Nano-Formulations and Nanomedicines Applications for Ocular Drug Delivery

by Dawin Khiev, Zeinab A. Mohamed, Riddhi Vichare, Ryan Paulson, Sofia Bhatia, Subhra Mohapatra, Glenn P. Lobo, Mallika Valapala, Nagaraj Kerur, Christopher L. Passaglia, Shyam S. Mohapatra and Manas R. Biswal

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(1), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11010173 - 12 Jan 2021

Cited by 129 | Viewed by 11947

Abstract

Ocular diseases can deteriorate vision to the point of blindness and thus can have a major impact on the daily life of an individual. Conventional therapies are unable to provide absolute therapy for all ocular diseases due to the several limitations during drug [...] Read more.

Ocular diseases can deteriorate vision to the point of blindness and thus can have a major impact on the daily life of an individual. Conventional therapies are unable to provide absolute therapy for all ocular diseases due to the several limitations during drug delivery across the blood-retinal barrier, making it a major clinical challenge. With recent developments, the vast number of publications undergird the need for nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems in treating ocular diseases. The tool of nanotechnology provides several essential advantages, including sustained drug release and specific tissue targeting. Additionally, comprehensive in vitro and in vivo studies have suggested a better uptake of nanoparticles across ocular barriers. Nanoparticles can overcome the blood-retinal barrier and consequently increase ocular penetration and improve the bioavailability of the drug. In this review, we aim to summarize the development of organic and inorganic nanoparticles for ophthalmic applications. We highlight the potential nanoformulations in clinical trials as well as the products that have become a commercial reality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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21 pages, 1612 KiB

Open AccessReview

Synthesis of Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Using Various Methods: Implications for Biomedical Applications

by Mpumelelo Nyoka, Yahya E. Choonara, Pradeep Kumar, Pierre P. D. Kondiah and Viness Pillay

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(2), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10020242 - 29 Jan 2020

Cited by 151 | Viewed by 13673

Abstract

Cerium oxide nanoparticles have been used in a number of non-medical products over the years. The therapeutic application of these nanoparticles has mainly been due to their oxidative stress ameliorating abilities. Their enzyme-mimetic catalytic ability to change between the Ce³⁺ and Ce [...] Read more.

Cerium oxide nanoparticles have been used in a number of non-medical products over the years. The therapeutic application of these nanoparticles has mainly been due to their oxidative stress ameliorating abilities. Their enzyme-mimetic catalytic ability to change between the Ce³⁺ and Ce⁴⁺ species makes them ideal for a role as free-radical scavengers for systemic diseases as well as neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we look at various methods of synthesis (including the use of stabilizing/capping agents and precursors), and how the synthesis method affects the physicochemical properties, their behavior in biological environments, their catalytic abilities as well as their reported toxicity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications)

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