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Keywords = albumin nanoparticles

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27 pages, 2602 KiB  
Article
Folate-Modified Albumin-Functionalized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Theranostics: Engineering and In Vitro PDT Treatment of Breast Cancer Cell Lines
by Anna V. Bychkova, Maria G. Gorobets, Anna V. Toroptseva, Alina A. Markova, Minh Tuan Nguyen, Yulia L. Volodina, Margarita A. Gradova, Madina I. Abdullina, Oksana A. Mayorova, Valery V. Kasparov, Vadim S. Pokrovsky, Anton V. Kolotaev and Derenik S. Khachatryan
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17080982 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 356
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), human serum albumin (HSA) and folic acid (FA) are prospective components for hybrid nanosystems for various biomedical applications. The magnetic nanosystems FA-HSA@IONPs (FAMs) containing IONPs, HSA, and FA residue are engineered in the study. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), human serum albumin (HSA) and folic acid (FA) are prospective components for hybrid nanosystems for various biomedical applications. The magnetic nanosystems FA-HSA@IONPs (FAMs) containing IONPs, HSA, and FA residue are engineered in the study. Methods: Composition, stability and integrity of the coating, and peroxidase-like activity of FAMs are characterized using UV/Vis spectrophotometry (colorimetric test using o-phenylenediamine (OPD), Bradford protein assay, etc.), spectrofluorimetry, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and electron magnetic resonance (EMR). The selectivity of the FAMs accumulation in cancer cells is analyzed using flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Results: FAMs (dN~55 nm by DLS) as a drug delivery platform have been administered to cancer cells (human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines) in vitro. Methylene blue, as a model photosensitizer, has been non-covalently bound to FAMs. An increase in photoinduced cytotoxicity has been found upon excitation of the photosensitizer bound to the coating of FAMs compared to the single photosensitizer at equivalent concentrations. The suitability of the nanosystems for photodynamic therapy has been confirmed. Conclusions: FAMs are able to effectively enter cells with increased folate receptor expression and thus allow antitumor photosensitizers to be delivered to cells without any loss of their in vitro photodynamic efficiency. Therapeutic and diagnostic applications of FAMs in oncology are discussed. Full article
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22 pages, 3781 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Parenteral Nutrition via Supplementation with Antioxidant Lutein in Human Serum Albumin-Based Nanosuspension
by Izabela Żółnowska, Aleksandra Gostyńska-Stawna, Katarzyna Dominiak, Barbara Jadach and Maciej Stawny
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17080971 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 475
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Parenteral nutrition (PN) supports patients unable to receive nutrients via the gastrointestinal tract, but it lacks the health-promoting natural bioactive compounds found in a typical oral diet. This study aimed to develop a human serum albumin-based intravenous delivery system for lutein [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Parenteral nutrition (PN) supports patients unable to receive nutrients via the gastrointestinal tract, but it lacks the health-promoting natural bioactive compounds found in a typical oral diet. This study aimed to develop a human serum albumin-based intravenous delivery system for lutein (an antioxidant carotenoid with vision-supportive and hepatoprotective properties) as a PN additive. Methods: An albumin–lutein nanosuspension (AlbLuteN) was synthesized using a modified nanoparticle albumin-bound (nabTM) technology and characterized physicochemically. The nanoformulation was added to four commercial PN admixtures to assess the supplementation safety throughout the maximum infusion period. Visual inspection and measurements of fat globules larger than 5 µm (PFAT5) and the mean hydrodynamic diameter (Z-average), zeta potential, pH, osmolality, and lutein content were performed to detect potential interactions and evaluate the physicochemical stability. Results: AlbLuteN consisted of uniform particles (Z-average of 133.5 ± 2.8 nm) with a zeta potential of −28.1 ± 1.8 mV, lutein content of 4.76 ± 0.39%, and entrapment efficiency of 84.4 ± 6.3%. Differential scanning calorimetry confirmed the amorphous state of lutein in the nanosuspension. AlbLuteN was successfully incorporated into PN admixtures, without visible phase separation or significant changes in physicochemical parameters. The PFAT5 and Z-average values remained within pharmacopeial limits over 24 h. No substantial shifts in zeta potential, pH, or osmolality were observed. The lutein content remained stable, with losses below 3%. Conclusions: AlbLuteN can be safely added to representative PN admixtures without compromising their stability. This approach offers a novel strategy for intravenous lutein delivery and may contribute to improving the nutritional profile of PN. Full article
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34 pages, 4581 KiB  
Review
Nanoradiopharmaceuticals: Design Principles, Radiolabeling Strategies, and Biomedicine Applications
by Andrés Núñez-Salinas, Cristian Parra-Garretón, Daniel Acuña, Sofía Peñaloza, Germán Günther, Soledad Bollo, Francisco Arriagada and Javier Morales
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(7), 912; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17070912 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 594
Abstract
Nanoradiopharmaceuticals integrate nanotechnology with nuclear medicine to enhance the precision and effectiveness of radiopharmaceuticals used in diagnostic imaging and targeted therapies. Nanomaterials offer improved targeting capabilities and greater stability, helping to overcome several limitations. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the fundamental [...] Read more.
Nanoradiopharmaceuticals integrate nanotechnology with nuclear medicine to enhance the precision and effectiveness of radiopharmaceuticals used in diagnostic imaging and targeted therapies. Nanomaterials offer improved targeting capabilities and greater stability, helping to overcome several limitations. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the fundamental design principles, radiolabeling techniques, and biomedical applications of nanoradiopharmaceuticals, with a particular focus on their expanding role in precision oncology. It explores key areas, including single- and multi-modal imaging modalities (SPECT, PET), radionuclide therapies involving beta, alpha, and Auger emitters, and integrated theranostic systems. A diverse array of nanocarriers is examined, including liposomes, micelles, albumin nanoparticles, PLGA, dendrimers, and gold, iron oxide, and silica-based platforms, with an assessment of both preclinical and clinical research outcomes. Theranostic nanoplatforms, which integrate diagnostic and therapeutic functions within a single system, enable real-time monitoring and personalized dose optimization. Although some of these systems have progressed to clinical trials, several obstacles remain, including formulation stability, scalable manufacturing, regulatory compliance, and long-term safety considerations. In summary, nanoradiopharmaceuticals represent a promising frontier in personalized medicine, particularly in oncology. By combining diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities within a single nanosystem, they facilitate more individualized and adaptive treatment approaches. Continued innovation in formulation, radiochemistry, and regulatory harmonization will be crucial to their successful routine clinical use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanosystems for Advanced Diagnostics and Therapy)
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15 pages, 2239 KiB  
Article
Labeled Bovine Serum Albumin as a Fluorescent Biosensor to Monitor the Stability of Lipid-Based Formulations
by Stefania Bova, Serena Faggiano, Omar De Bei, Marialaura Marchetti, Stefano Bruno, Barbara Campanini, Stefano Bettati and Luca Ronda
Biosensors 2025, 15(7), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15070425 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 407
Abstract
In the pharmaceutical field, lipid-based nanoparticles are extensively used for drug or vaccine delivery, particularly for treating respiratory disorders. However, their physico-chemical instability, particularly associated with lipid degradation through hydrolysis or oxidation, can affect their encapsulation properties. To monitor the stability of lipid-based [...] Read more.
In the pharmaceutical field, lipid-based nanoparticles are extensively used for drug or vaccine delivery, particularly for treating respiratory disorders. However, their physico-chemical instability, particularly associated with lipid degradation through hydrolysis or oxidation, can affect their encapsulation properties. To monitor the stability of lipid-based formulations over time, we prepared acrylodan-labeled bovine serum albumin (here called albuminodan), and showed it is a fluorescent biosensor capable of concomitantly detect phospholipids as well as their degradation products, i.e., fatty acids and lysophospholipids. We demonstrated that this tool can be used to follow the distribution of lipids in an aqueous phase and hence could be suitable to characterize the hydrolysis of phospholipids in a lipid-based formulation to monitor the stability of nanoparticles. Full article
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22 pages, 2804 KiB  
Article
Spectroscopic and Pulse Radiolysis Studies of Water–Ethanolic Solutions of Albumins: Insight into Serum Albumin Aggregation
by Karolina Radomska and Marian Wolszczak
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 6283; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26136283 - 29 Jun 2025
Viewed by 411
Abstract
Albumin-based nanoparticles are promising drug delivery systems due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to improve targeted drug release. Among various preparation methods, radiation-induced cross-linking in the presence of ethanol has been proposed in the literature as an effective method for producing protein [...] Read more.
Albumin-based nanoparticles are promising drug delivery systems due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to improve targeted drug release. Among various preparation methods, radiation-induced cross-linking in the presence of ethanol has been proposed in the literature as an effective method for producing protein nanoparticles with preserved bioactivity and controlled size. However, the mechanisms by which ethanol radicals contribute to protein aggregation remain insufficiently understood. In this study, we investigate the role of ethanol in the aggregation of albumins to determine whether its presence is necessary or beneficial for nanoparticle formation. Using pulse radiolysis, spectroscopy methods, resonance light scattering (RLS), and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, we examined aqueous ethanol solutions of albumins before and after irradiation. Our results show that ethanol concentrations above 40% (v/v) significantly promote both radiation-induced and spontaneous protein aggregation. Mechanistic analysis indicates that ethanol radicals react with albumin similarly to hydrated electrons, mainly targeting disulfide bridges. This reaction leads to the formation of sulfur-centered radicals and the formation of intermolecular disulfide bonds that stabilize protein nanostructures by excluding the formation of dityrosine bridges, as described in the literature. In contrast, ethanol concentration below 40% does not favor the radiation-induced aggregation compared to the solution containing t-BuOH. These results provide novel insights into the role of organic cosolvents in protein aggregation and contribute to a broader understanding of the mechanisms of formation of albumin-based nanoparticles using ionizing radiation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physical Chemistry and Chemical Physics)
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17 pages, 1443 KiB  
Article
Morin Flavonoid Interaction with Albumin and Its Nanoparticle Conjugation: An Efficient Antioxidant Vehicle for Nutraceuticals
by Guillermo Montero, Víctor Guarnizo-Herrero, Catalina Sandoval-Altamirano, Germán Günther, Soledad Bollo, Francisco Arriagada and Javier Morales
Antioxidants 2025, 14(7), 764; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14070764 - 21 Jun 2025
Viewed by 554
Abstract
Morin is a natural flavonoid with potent antioxidant activity, yet its clinical and nutraceutical applications remain limited due to poor aqueous solubility and low bioavailability. This study explores the interaction of morin with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and the development of BSA-based nanoparticles [...] Read more.
Morin is a natural flavonoid with potent antioxidant activity, yet its clinical and nutraceutical applications remain limited due to poor aqueous solubility and low bioavailability. This study explores the interaction of morin with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and the development of BSA-based nanoparticles as a delivery platform. Fluorescence spectroscopy confirmed the formation of a stable 1:1 morin–BSA complex, governed by hydrophobic interactions, with a binding constant (Ka) of 1.87 × 105 L·mol−1. Binding conferred enhanced photostability, as BSA attenuated morin degradation under oxidative stress conditions. BSA nanoparticles prepared by desolvation encapsulated morin with high monodispersity and encapsulation efficiencies up to 26%. Co-encapsulation with ellagic acid or tocopherol succinate improved loading capacity but reduced morin release, suggesting intermolecular stabilization. Release studies in simulated intestinal fluid showed controlled diffusion, while compatibility assays in milk-based food matrices confirmed colloidal stability in whole and reduced-fat milk. These findings support BSA–morin nanoparticles as a promising system for the oral delivery and functional food incorporation of polyphenolic antioxidants. Full article
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13 pages, 2984 KiB  
Article
Tailoring of Albumin Nanoparticles Modified with Mannose for Effective Targeting in Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment
by Alyona B. Kuznetsova, Valentina I. Gorbacheva, Ekaterina P. Kolesova and Vera S. Egorova
Micro 2025, 5(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/micro5020030 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 555
Abstract
In the tumor microenvironment, M2 tumor-associated macrophages play a crucial role in promoting tumor growth, vascularization, and metastasis through their anti-inflammatory and tissue-repairing functions. To reprogram M2 cells into a more benign M1 phenotype and enhance the patient’s intrinsic immune response against cancer, [...] Read more.
In the tumor microenvironment, M2 tumor-associated macrophages play a crucial role in promoting tumor growth, vascularization, and metastasis through their anti-inflammatory and tissue-repairing functions. To reprogram M2 cells into a more benign M1 phenotype and enhance the patient’s intrinsic immune response against cancer, siRNA and small molecules are used, which can be encapsulated into nanoparticles to enhance their stability, circulation time, and bioavailability. Albumin nanoparticles are ideal candidates for the delivery of such cargo because of their low toxicity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, prolonged circulation in the bloodstream, and feasible particle modification. In this study, we optimized a one-step desolvation method using the standard cross-linker glutaraldehyde and D-mannose as a second cross-linker for the synthesis of mannosylated albumin nanoparticles. The obtained nanoparticles demonstrated favorable physical characteristics, high encapsulation efficiency, and the most effective targeting into activated M2 macrophages overexpressing the mannose receptor in comparison to M1 macrophages and cancer cells in vitro. Full article
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21 pages, 3980 KiB  
Article
Binding Capacity and Adsorption Stability of Uremic Metabolites to Albumin-Modified Magnetic Nanoparticles
by Indu Sharma, Agatha Milley, Lun Zhang, Jiamin Zheng, Ethan Lockwood, David S. Wishart, Marcello Tonelli and Larry D. Unsworth
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(11), 5366; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26115366 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 407
Abstract
Kidney disease causes the retention of uremic metabolites in blood, which is associated with many comorbidities. Hemodialysis does not properly clear many metabolites, including large, middle-sized, and small protein-bound uremic toxins (PBUTs). Adsorption strategies for metabolite removal require the development of engineered adsorbents [...] Read more.
Kidney disease causes the retention of uremic metabolites in blood, which is associated with many comorbidities. Hemodialysis does not properly clear many metabolites, including large, middle-sized, and small protein-bound uremic toxins (PBUTs). Adsorption strategies for metabolite removal require the development of engineered adsorbents with tailored surfaces to increase the binding of desired metabolites. Albumin is uniquely positioned for modifying blood-contacting surfaces to absorb uremic metabolites, as it (i) minimizes non-specific protein adsorption and (ii) binds a range of molecules at Sudlow Sites I and II with different affinities. It is unknown if albumin-modified surfaces retain the adsorption qualities of solution-free albumin, namely, adsorption stability or specificity. Herein, albumin was covalently attached to iron oxide nanoparticles and characterized using multiple methods. Metabolite adsorption was conducted by incubating particles in a model solution of thirty-three uremic metabolites associated with kidney failure. Adsorption efficiency, selectivity, and stability were affected by albumin concentration and incubation time. Metabolite adsorption was found to change with time, and it was more effective on albumin-modified particles than unmodified controls. The findings outlined in this paper are crucial for the design of next-generation advanced blood-contacting materials to enhance dialysis and blood purification for patients with kidney disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Endocrinology and Metabolism)
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21 pages, 5231 KiB  
Article
Clarithromycin-Loaded Albumin-Based Nanoparticles for Improved Antibacterial and Anticancer Performance
by Walhan Alshaer, Shrouq Alsotari, Nour Aladaileh, Alaa Rifai, Aya Khalaf, Baidaa AlQuaissi, Bushra Sabbah, Hamdi Nsairat and Fadwa Odeh
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(6), 729; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17060729 - 31 May 2025
Viewed by 1516
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Clarithromycin (CLA) is a widely used antibiotic effective against a variety of bacterial strains, making it a common treatment for respiratory, skin, and soft tissue infections. Moreover, extensive studies have confirmed the anticancer activity of CLA against different cancers, particularly when combined [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Clarithromycin (CLA) is a widely used antibiotic effective against a variety of bacterial strains, making it a common treatment for respiratory, skin, and soft tissue infections. Moreover, extensive studies have confirmed the anticancer activity of CLA against different cancers, particularly when combined with conventional therapies. This study investigates the potential anticancer and antibacterial activities of developed CLA-loaded bovine serum albumin nanoparticles (CLA-BSA NPs), designed with optimized physicochemical properties to enhance drug delivery. Methods: The CLA-BSA NPs were synthesized using the desolvation method, followed by drug loading. Characterization techniques, including Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Results: The results confirmed that CLA interacts with BSA NPs through van der Waals forces. The performance of drug–nanocarrier interaction was further assessed through in vitro drug release studies. The release studies demonstrated that CLA had a robust release profile in reductive media, with a cumulative release of 50.9% in acetate buffer (pH 5.0) supplemented with 10 mM glutathione (GSH). Further biological activity assays were also conducted, including cell viability assays (MTT) and antibacterial activity tests. CLA-BSA NPs demonstrated anticancer activity against the lung cancer (A549) cell line, while showing minimal cytotoxicity on normal human dermal fibroblast (HDF) cells. The antibacterial activity was assessed against Streptococcus pyogenes, Bacillus cereus, and Staphylococcus aureus. Among the tested strains, Bacillus cereus exhibited the highest sensitivity, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.032 µg/mL, compared to 0.12 µg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus and >32 µg/mL for Streptococcus pyogenes. Conclusions: In conclusion, these findings highlight CLA-BSA NPs as a promising drug delivery system that enhances the anticancer and antibacterial efficacy of CLA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery Systems)
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28 pages, 861 KiB  
Review
Protein-Bound Nano-Injectable Suspension: Unveiling the Promises and Challenges
by Eknath D. Ahire, Namrata Savaliya, Kalarav V. Makwana, Sagar Salave, Mandeep Kaur Banth, Bhavesh Bhavsar, Dignesh Khunt and Bhupendra G. Prajapati
Appl. Nano 2025, 6(2), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano6020009 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 1505
Abstract
Protein-bound nano-injectable solutions represent a cutting-edge advancement in nanomedicine, offering a versatile platform for precise and controlled drug delivery. By leveraging the biocompatibility and functional versatility of proteins such as albumin, gelatin, and casein, these nano systems enhance drug solubility, prolong circulation time, [...] Read more.
Protein-bound nano-injectable solutions represent a cutting-edge advancement in nanomedicine, offering a versatile platform for precise and controlled drug delivery. By leveraging the biocompatibility and functional versatility of proteins such as albumin, gelatin, and casein, these nano systems enhance drug solubility, prolong circulation time, and improve site-specific targeting, which are particularly beneficial in cancer and inflammatory diseases. This review provides a comprehensive overview of their formulation strategies, physicochemical characteristics, and biological behavior. Emphasis is placed on therapeutic applications, regulatory considerations, fabrication techniques, and the underlying mechanisms of drug–protein interactions. This review also highlights improved pharmacokinetics and reduced systemic toxicity, while also critically addressing challenges like immunogenicity, protein instability, and production scalability. Recent FDA-approved formulations and emerging innovations in precision medicine and theranostics underscore the transformative potential of protein-based nanosuspensions in next-generation drug delivery systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Review Papers for Applied Nano Science and Technology)
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14 pages, 1677 KiB  
Article
Development of Cortisol Sensors with Interdigitated Electrode Platforms Based on Barium Titanate Nanoparticles
by Marylene S. G. Roma and Juliano A. Chaker
Sensors 2025, 25(11), 3346; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25113346 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 717
Abstract
Cortisol is a key biomarker for stress detection, and its levels can be monitored using point-of-care devices with sensors such as nanoparticles and interdigitated array electrodes (IDEs). This study developed an IDE platform using barium titanate (BaTiO3) particles synthesized via colloidal [...] Read more.
Cortisol is a key biomarker for stress detection, and its levels can be monitored using point-of-care devices with sensors such as nanoparticles and interdigitated array electrodes (IDEs). This study developed an IDE platform using barium titanate (BaTiO3) particles synthesized via colloidal precipitation with titanium tetraisopropoxide, barium chloride, and Pluronic® P123. The calcination temperatures varied between 160 °C and 340 °C, with optimal results observed at 160 °C. Scanning electron microscopy revealed particles with an average size of 26 nm, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the molecular composition after the removal of P123. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed anatase and brookite phases. Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analysis indicated changes in pore morphology, with samples treated at 160 °C exhibiting a type IV(a) mesoporous structure, a surface area of 163 m2/g, and an average pore diameter of 5.24 nm. Higher temperatures led to transitions to type IV(b) at 260 °C and type V at 340 °C, with reduced pore size. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was employed to evaluate the performance of the IDE sensor integrated with BaTiO3 nanoparticles and albumin across cortisol concentrations ranging from 5.0 to 20 ng/mL. Impedance measurements revealed a significant decrease in impedance (Z′) with increasing cortisol concentrations, indicating increased conductivity. Specifically, Nyquist plots for a saliva sample containing 5 ng/mL cortisol—within the typical physiological range—exhibited a marked increase in charge-transfer resistance (Rct), confirming the sensor’s ability to detect low hormone levels in biological fluids. These findings underscore the potential of BaTiO3-based IDE platforms at 160 °C for stress biomarker monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanosensors)
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17 pages, 2221 KiB  
Article
Nanoparticle-Based mRNA Vaccine Induces Protective Neutralizing Antibodies Against Infectious Bronchitis Virus in In-Vivo Infection
by Aseno Sakhrie, Ankarao Kalluri, Zeinab H. Helal, Challa V. Kumar and Mazhar I. Khan
Vaccines 2025, 13(6), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13060568 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 1017
Abstract
Background: Live attenuated and inactivated virus vaccines are commonly used against infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) in chickens, but they have limitations such as mutation risks and short efficacy. This study explores cationic bovine serum albumin (BSA) polyamine nanoparticles (NPs) for delivering IBV spike [...] Read more.
Background: Live attenuated and inactivated virus vaccines are commonly used against infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) in chickens, but they have limitations such as mutation risks and short efficacy. This study explores cationic bovine serum albumin (BSA) polyamine nanoparticles (NPs) for delivering IBV spike protein mRNA, aiming to develop a safer and more effective vaccine. Methods: A BSA-based nanoparticle system was designed with positive surface charges and characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), Zetasizer, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Its cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, and ability to deliver IBV spike protein mRNA were evaluated in macrophage-like chicken cell lines (HD11), followed by immunogenicity studies in SPF chickens to assess immune responses. Results: The study demonstrated successful binding and transfection efficiency of the in vitro transcription (IVT)-mRNA complexed with the NPs, which was enhanced with chloroquine. Immunogenicity studies in SPF chickens showed a significant increase in antibody titers in chickens vaccinated with the mRNA vaccine compared to the PBS control, indicating an effective immune response against the IBV S protein. Furthermore, the neutralization index doubled after a higher-dose mRNA booster with chloroquine, and PBMCs from immunized chickens exhibited a threefold higher stimulation index than the PBS control. Conclusions: BSA-based NPs effectively deliver IBV spike protein mRNA, enhancing immune responses and offering a promising strategy for a safer, more effective IBV vaccine. Full article
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20 pages, 1850 KiB  
Article
Biosynthesis of Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Using Egg Albumin: Antifungal, Dielectric Analysis and Photocatalytic Activity
by Azam Raza, Sally Mostafa Khadrawy, Irfan Ahmad, Mohd Imran, Gulrana Khuwaja, Humaira Parveen, Sayeed Mukhtar, Bhagyashree R. Patil, Ahmed A. Allam, Hassan A. Rudayni, Syed Kashif Ali and Absar Ahmad
Catalysts 2025, 15(6), 505; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15060505 - 22 May 2025
Viewed by 617
Abstract
The use of chemical pesticides has led to adverse effects on human health and the environment, prompting the exploration of alternative solutions. This study successfully biosynthesized iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) using chicken egg albumin, which served as reducing and [...] Read more.
The use of chemical pesticides has led to adverse effects on human health and the environment, prompting the exploration of alternative solutions. This study successfully biosynthesized iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) using chicken egg albumin, which served as reducing and capping agents, and evaluated their antifungal efficacy against Macrophomina phaseolina. The fungicidal potential of Fe3O4 NPs was assessed in vitro, demonstrating enhanced inhibition of M. phaseolina’s radial growth with increasing concentrations from 100 ppm to 300 ppm. Dielectric properties were also studied, revealing advantageous current conduction processes and conductive network development with temperature variation, which is particularly beneficial in the low-frequency range. At a fixed pH, dielectric studies showed increased mobile carrier movement and polarization with rising temperature at a fixed frequency. The photocatalytic activity of Fe3O4 NPs was assessed for the degradation of methylene blue (MB), an organic dye, under solar irradiation. In this study, Fe3O4 NPs photocatalysts achieved 89% (MB) degradation within 75 min. This research underscores the potential of using chicken egg albumin for the biosynthesis of Fe3O4 NPs. It offers a promising alternative for plant disease control and highlights their suitability for integration into eco-friendly plant protection strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Materials for Hazardous Wastewater Treatment)
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23 pages, 2262 KiB  
Review
The Role of Nanoparticles in Therapy of Real-World Patients with Pancreatic Cancer: A Scoping Review
by Ioannis Konstantinidis, Sophia Tsokkou, Dimitrios Katsikeros, Paraskevi Chatzikomnitsa, Menelaos Papakonstantinou, Eftychia Liampou, Evdokia Toutziari, Dimitrios Giakoustidis, Petros Bageas, Vasileios Papadopoulos, Alexandros Giakoustidis and Theodora Papamitsou
Cancers 2025, 17(10), 1726; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17101726 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 910
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most aggressive and fatal malignancies worldwide, posing a significant global health challenge due to its high mortality rates, late-stage diagnosis, and limited therapeutic efficacy [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Pancreatic Cancer)
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15 pages, 4471 KiB  
Article
Biosynthesized Calcium Peroxide Nanoparticles as a Multifunctional Platform for Liver Cancer Therapy
by Sen Wu, Siqi Li, Xin Xia, Gen Zhang and Ting Wang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(10), 4696; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26104696 - 14 May 2025
Viewed by 515
Abstract
To overcome the limitations associated with chemically synthesized nanoparticles in cancer therapy, researchers have increasingly focused on developing nanoparticles with superior biocompatibility and prolonged tumor retention using biosynthetic methods. In this study, we first identified the presence of calcium peroxide nanoparticles (CaO2 [...] Read more.
To overcome the limitations associated with chemically synthesized nanoparticles in cancer therapy, researchers have increasingly focused on developing nanoparticles with superior biocompatibility and prolonged tumor retention using biosynthetic methods. In this study, we first identified the presence of calcium peroxide nanoparticles (CaO2 NPs) in the blood of individuals who had ingested calcium gluconate. Furthermore, the dropwise addition of calcium gluconate to human serum resulted in the spontaneous self-assembly of CaO2 NPs. Next, following tail vein injection of fluorescently labeled CaO2 NPs into subcutaneous tumor-bearing nude mice, we observed that the nanoparticles exhibited prolonged accumulation at the tumor sites compared to other organs through visible-light imaging. Immunofluorescence staining demonstrated that CaO2 NPs co-localized with vesicular transport-associated proteins, such as PV-1 and Caveolin-1, as well as the albumin-binding-associated protein SPARC, suggesting that their transport from tumor blood vessels to the tumor site is mediated by Caveolin-1- and SPARC-dependent active transport pathways. Additionally, the analysis of various organs in normal mice injected with CaO2 NPs at concentrations significantly higher than the experimental dose showed no apparent organ damage. Hemolysis assays indicated that hemolysis occurred only at calcium concentrations of 300 µg/mL, whereas the experimental concentration remained well below this threshold with no detectable hemolytic activity. In a subcutaneous tumor-bearing nude mouse model, treatment with docetaxel-loaded CaO2 NPs showed a 68.5% reduction in tumor volume compared to free docetaxel (DTX) alone. These novel biosynthetic CaO2 NPs demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, prolonged retention at the tumor site, safety, and drug-loading capability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Nanoscience)
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