Search Results (5,245)

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease are progressive and currently incurable conditions characterized by the deterioration of neuronal structure and function. Its incidence is increasing, primarily driven by global aging, and it represents a significant public health concern. Traditional therapies offer only symptomatic relief and are unable to halt or reverse the underlying neurodegenerative processes. One of the key challenges in developing effective treatments is the presence of biological barriers, such as the blood–brain barrier (BBB), which limits drug delivery to the central nervous system (CNS), namely the brain. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising tool to overcome these obstacles. Nanoparticles (NPs), due to their small size, biocompatibility, and versatility, can be engineered to cross the BBB, protect therapeutic agents from degradation, and deliver them precisely to target sites in the brain. This work explores the current advances in lipid and polymeric-based nanoparticle (LNPs and PNPs, respectively) drug delivery systems (DDS) and their application in preclinical studies for the treatment of the NDs previously mentioned. The presented studies suggest that this strategy holds great potential, offering new perspectives and emerging strategies to improve therapeutic outcomes for NDs, and promote neuroprotection of the brain. Full article

Polymeric microneedles are introduced as a promising platform for minimally invasive drug delivery and molecular transport control. In the present study, hollow dissolving nanocomposite microneedles based on a mixture of high- and low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (HA) in a 40:60 ratio, including zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), have been created and evaluated as hydrated polymer transport matrices. Surface modification of ZnO nanoparticles using citric acid was proposed to improve dispersion by reducing agglomeration of nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. ZnO nanoparticles in concentrations ranging from 1 to 10% (w/w) were used to study the effects of the loading level of nanoparticles on the structure, mechanical response, and controlled diffusion behavior of hydrated polymer matrices. The created nanocomposites exhibited clear hollow structures with tip radius of 18–23 μm, height of 1500 μm, and aspect ratio of 5.7. Nanoscale surface organization and particle dispersion in the polymer matrix were studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM). Low nanoparticle concentrations were favorable for maintaining high matrix homogeneity, while high concentrations resulted in increased surface roughness and nanoparticle agglomeration. Mechanical compression testing confirmed that hydrated HA/ZnO microneedles were characterized by elastic bending behavior until fracture. Diffusion experiments performed in Franz diffusion cells showed that nanoparticle concentration significantly impacted the cumulative transport and flux of molecules through the hydrated microneedle matrix. Formulations with 5% and 7% ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by a prolonged diffusion behavior attributed to ZnO-induced tortuous transport channels in the polymer matrix. In contrast, formulations with 10% ZnO nanoparticles exhibited accelerated heterogeneous transport due to ZnO-induced changes in structure and morphology. The experimental diffusion data correlated well with the Higuchi kinetic model, and anomalous transport was detected using the Korsmeyer–Peppas model, which indicated a synergistic effect of diffusion and polymer relaxation on molecular transport. As compared to coating and tip-loaded microneedle designs, the obtained HA/ZnO nanocomposite microneedles offered a simple approach for embedding Ciprofloxacin in the hydrated polymer matrix. This was achieved due to the direct creation of microneedles containing dissolved particles. Full article

Nanotechnology is rapidly advancing as a promising approach in ovarian cancer management, addressing key challenges such as late diagnosis, drug resistance, and systemic toxicity of conventional therapies. Nanoparticles—engineered at the 1–100 nm scale—possess unique physical and biological properties that make them well-suited for targeted drug delivery, imaging, and biomarker detection. In diagnostics, platforms such as gold nanoparticles, quantum dots, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs), and carbon-based nanomaterials have demonstrated the ability to improve sensitivity and specificity, enabling the detection of low-abundance biomarkers and enhancing imaging contrast. These advances could significantly improve the early-stage detection, where survival outcomes are most favorable. Therapeutically, nanoparticles offer controlled and sustained drug release, targeted delivery to specific tumor sites, and the ability to co-deliver multiple agents, including siRNA and mRNA, in order to overcome resistance pathways. Clinically, liposomal formulations such as Doxil, already demonstrate reduced toxicity and improved drug bioavailability, while polymeric, silica, gold, and magnetic nanoparticles continue to show encouraging results in preclinical and early clinical studies. Although challenges remain—including large-scale production, long-term safety evaluation, and regulatory complexity—the current body of evidence highlights nanotechnology’s transformative potential in ovarian cancer care. By enabling earlier detection, more precise targeting, and reduced systemic toxicity, nanomedicine represents a critical step toward improving both survival and quality of life in affected patients. Full article

Nanoparticles combining gold and iron oxide are promising for a wide range of biomedical applications, including photothermal therapy, radiotherapy enhancement, drug delivery, and diagnostic imaging. However, their long-term biodistribution and safety profile remain largely unexplored. Here, we synthesized Fe₃O₄@AuNP core–satellite nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄@AuNPs) using femtosecond laser ablation, functionalized them with 15 kDa polyethylene glycol (PEG), and characterized them using a panel of physicochemical techniques. Healthy C57BL/6 mice received an intravenous injection of Fe₃O₄@AuNPs at 730 mg Au/kg and 82 mg Fe/kg, respectively. Biodistribution was monitored by computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) over 12 months, after which gold and iron concentrations were measured ex vivo, and long-term toxicity was assessed via histology and blood biochemistry. Nanoparticles accumulated predominantly in the liver and spleen. Quantitative analysis of CT images revealed a gradual decrease in gold content, while MRI showed a progressive reduction in negative contrast in the liver between 6 and 12 months, suggesting possible changes in the Fe₃O₄ core structure. Over the one-year observation period, no differences in behavior or body weight gain were detected between the treated and control groups. Histological examination revealed no pathological changes other than mild age-related alterations. These findings provide a baseline for the long-term behavior of laser-ablated core–satellite Fe₃O₄@AuNPs, which is essential for their further development in diagnostic and theranostic applications. Full article

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT), as a promising oncological modality, enables the specific therapy of tumor cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. It has emerged as a critical strategy for combating refractory malignancies such as glioma, breast cancer, lung cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The development of efficient boron carriers is fundamental to realizing the clinical potential of BNCT. This review systematically traces the evolutionary trajectory of boron carriers, from first-generation soluble borates and second-generation agents to third-generation actively targeted formulations, with a particular focus on the current state of nanoparticle-based carriers. It provides a detailed analysis of the structural properties, boron-loading advantages, targeting modification strategies, and key research findings associated with various nanoplatforms, including liposomes, polymers, dendrimers, boron carbide nanoparticles, and gold nanoparticles. Furthermore, by examining specific tumor cell targets such as folate receptors and integrin receptors, the review elucidates the mechanisms by which nanocarriers achieve tumor boron enrichment through both the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect and ligand-mediated active targeting. The review also critically assesses current challenges in the field, including targeting efficacy, boron loading capacity, in vivo retention, and biocompatibility. Finally, it summarizes emerging strategies—such as multi-target modification, combination immunotherapy, theranostics, and the induction of tumor cell pyroptosis—and provides a forward-looking perspective on future developments, aiming to inform the rational design of next-generation BNCT boron carriers with high targeting specificity, high boron payload, and low toxicity. Full article

Nano bioinks have recently emerged as a promising class of biomaterials for advanced bioprinting applications, offering new opportunities in regenerative medicine, controlled drug delivery, and biosensing technologies. These materials are typically developed by integrating nanostructures such as nanoparticles, nanosheets, and nanofibers into polymeric or hydrogel matrices to enhance mechanical strength, bioactivity, and printing performance. Various fabrication approaches such as direct blending, in-situ polymerization, and surface functionalization are used to incorporate nanomaterials into bioink formulations. Subsequent crosslinking strategies are employed to improve print fidelity and structural stability while maintaining cell viability and biological functionality during the bioprinting process. Despite significant progress in recent years, several challenges continue to hinder the clinical translation of nano bioinks. Achieving consistent batch-to-batch reproducibility, ensuring long-term biocompatibility, and optimizing rheological properties for reliable printing remain critical issues. In addition, regulatory pathways and ethical considerations related to the biomedical use of nano-enabled bioinks are still insufficiently addressed in the literature. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the design and fabrication of nano bioinks, highlighting key synthesis strategies, functional nanomaterials used in bioink formulations, and their emerging applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery, and biosensing. Furthermore, the review discusses the major technical, regulatory, and translational challenges that need to be addressed to facilitate the safe and effective implementation of nano bioinks in future biomedical applications. Full article

We present cystamine-modified polydopamine (PDA) coatings as tunable gatekeepers for mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) in drug delivery. Unlike conventional post-functionalization strategies, cystamine moieties were incorporated directly into the PDA network, enabling tunable shell composition and redox responsiveness by simply adjusting the dopamine-to-cystamine ratio. By varying the cystamine:dopamine ratio, pH- and redox-responsive release of doxorubicin (DOX) and sorafenib (SO) was achieved, with release kinetics following the Higuchi model. Cystamine-modified PDA nanoparticles with varying disulfide bridge content were synthesized and comprehensively characterized using SEM, TGA, FTIR, and zeta potential measurements. The cystamine content was found to influence thermal stability, coating performance, and protective properties. Importantly, increasing disulfide content did not necessarily improve release performance, suggesting that excessive crosslinking may partially restrict shell permeabilization and drug diffusion. These findings reveal important structure–property relationships in catechol-based coatings and underline the significance of disulfide linkages in the design of bioinspired stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems. Full article

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent, lipid peroxidation-driven form of regulated cell death that has emerged as a promising strategy for targeting therapy-resistant cancers. However, both intrinsic and acquired resistance to ferroptosis-inducing agents (FINs) limit their clinical efficacy. Here, we propose an integrated framework in which ferroptosis resistance arises from coordinated redox, metabolic, lipid, iron, and transport adaptations that collectively suppress lipid peroxidation and promote tumor survival. Central to this network is the cysteine–glutathione–GPX4 axis, supported by parallel GPX4-independent systems including FSP1–CoQ10, DHODH–CoQ10, GCH1–BH4, and NQO1–NADPH pathways. These antioxidant systems are reinforced by NRF2-driven transcriptional programs, iron sequestration mechanisms, lipid remodeling that reduces polyunsaturated fatty acid availability, and ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters that regulate drug and glutathione flux. Tumor heterogeneity further enhances ferroptosis resistance by generating metabolically distinct cellular subpopulations that differ in their susceptibility to lipid peroxidation. We discuss emerging therapeutic strategies designed to overcome these coordinated defense mechanisms, including simultaneous targeting of GPX4 and FSP1, metabolic reprogramming, iron-directed therapies, and nanoparticle-based delivery systems. Collectively, these observations support a systems-level model in which durable ferroptosis-based cancer therapy will require disruption of multiple interconnected resistance mechanisms rather than inhibition of a single molecular target. Full article

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV), particularly UVA radiation, is a primary driver of photoaging due to its deep dermal penetration, which triggers DNA damage, collagen degradation, and immune suppression. Chebulinic acid (CA), a polyphenolic compound from Terminalia chebula, exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties against UVB-induced skin damage. However, its large molecular weight hinders transdermal delivery and the TAT_47–57 peptide (core of HIV-1 TAT) enables rapid transmembrane transport. Large particles with double-layer membrane structure and a diameter exceeding 1000 nm were obtained during the separation of plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PELNs), which are not considered as PELNs (50–500 nm), after a mixture with TAT anchored to the surface of engineered artificial vesicles (EAVs) and extrusion causes membrane fusion, employed as novel nanocarriers to overcome the difficulty in skin penetration by leveraging their lipid bilayer structure and surface membrane-anchored TAT for efficient epidermal fusion and intercellular penetration. Furthermore, CA-loaded TAT-ePELNs demonstrate significant efficacy in mitigating UVA-induced photoaging. Collectively, this study expands the anti-UVR damage application spectrum of CA from UVB to UVA exposure and establishes a green, efficient, and biosafe strategy for transdermal drug delivery by utilization of non-PELNs generated during the preparation process of PELNs. Full article

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and acts as a major protective barrier against external agents. However, the highly organized stratum corneum limits the effective delivery of many therapeutic compounds, especially hydrophilic and high-molecular-weight drugs. Conventional topical formulations often exhibit poor permeability, low bioavailability, and limited targeting efficiency. This review discusses recent advances in nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems, including bio-based, biodegradable, and biocompatible polymeric nanocarriers for dermal and transdermal applications, with particular emphasis on vesicular, polymeric, and hybrid nanosystems. Nanocarriers such as liposomes, ethosomes, transfersomes, polymeric nanoparticles, micelles, nanogels, and lipid–polymer hybrid systems have demonstrated improved drug solubility, stability, controlled release, and skin permeation for localized (dermal) delivery compared with conventional formulations. In addition, biodegradable polymeric materials enhance dermal deposition and prolong drug retention, leading to improved therapeutic efficacy. These nanosystems can facilitate enhanced transdermal drug transport under optimized conditions; however, the extent of systemic delivery varies widely depending on drug physicochemical properties, formulation characteristics, and application conditions. Drug transport may occur through intercellular, transcellular, and follicular pathways, resulting in enhanced bioavailability and site-specific delivery. Claims regarding transdermal (systemic) absorption are restricted to cases supported by in vivo or clinical evidence. Furthermore, combining nanocarriers with microneedles and stimuli-responsive platforms has expanded the potential for controlled and on-demand transdermal delivery. Recent preclinical and clinical studies have reported that nanocarrier-based methotrexate gels reduced PASI-like scores by over 70% in psoriatic models, while oleic acid vesicle formulations achieved more than 95% cure rates in rodent models of tinea corporis. Despite these advances, challenges related to large-scale production, stability, regulatory approval, and clinical translation remain significant. Future developments integrating smart nanocarriers, bio-based polymeric biomaterials, wearable technologies, and AI-assisted design may improve personalized dermatological therapies. These innovations in nanocarrier drug delivery are accelerating the translation of advanced therapies to the clinic, promising safer, more effective and personalized dermatological treatments. Full article

Bamboo, a fast-growing and sustainable biomass, has traditionally been used in structural applications; however, its hierarchical architecture and rich chemical composition enable both the derivation of advanced nanomaterials and the fabrication of bamboo-assisted nanostructures. Recent studies demonstrate that such bamboo-based nanomaterials, including nanocellulose, lignin nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, carbon dots, and carbon-based nanostructures, exhibit unique physicochemical properties suitable for biomedical applications. This review provides an overview of bamboo biology and classification, chemical composition, extraction and synthesis of bamboo-derived nanomaterials, and their biomedical applications. Emphasis is placed on their diverse biomedical applications, including drug delivery, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, wound healing and antimicrobial dressings, cancer therapy, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory applications, and biomedical imaging and biosensing. In addition, emerging approaches that integrate bamboo-derived materials with plant-based bioactive compounds, particularly rose-derived phytochemicals, are proposed as promising strategies for achieving synergistic, broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Overall, bamboo-based nanomaterials offer a sustainable and versatile platform for next-generation nanomedicine, with significant potential for future biomedical innovations. Full article

The production of polymeric nanoparticles using microfluidic systems holds great potential for controlled drug delivery applications. In this study, the effects of flow parameters and surfactant properties on the characteristics of PLGA (Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)) nanoparticles were systematically investigated. First, the total flow rate (TFR) and flow rate ratio (FRR) were optimized to ensure stable droplet formation. Subsequently, the effects of different surfactant types (anionic, cationic, and nonionic) and their varying concentrations were evaluated. Using the selected parameters, capsaicin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles were successfully produced. The particles were prepared using a microfluidic platform, and the organic phase was subsequently removed via solvent evaporation. The resulting formulations were comprehensively characterized in terms of particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency (%EE). Additionally, the in vitro release profiles and cytotoxicity of capsaicin-loaded nanoparticles were evaluated. This study aimed to elucidate the decisive role of surfactant parameters in the microfluidic production of PLGA nanoparticles and to contribute to the development of optimized and reproducible formulations. Full article

Background: Actinium-225 (²²⁵Ac) is receiving major attention as the radionuclide of choice for targeted alpha therapy (TAT) due to its outstanding physical properties such as a long physical half-life of 9.9 days and a short range of alpha (α)-particles which are responsible for the destruction of malignant tumors, whilst sparing normal surrounding tissues. Although the physical properties of ²²⁵Ac make it a desirable radionuclide for TAT, its application is challenging due to the lack of chelators available to stabilize its daughter radionuclides, resulting in the recoil effect. This occurs when there is a breakdown between the radionuclide and the chelator, therefore minimizing the therapeutic effects of the radiopharmaceutical. Nanodrug delivery systems (NDDSs) may minimize the challenge of ²²⁵Ac’s recoiling daughters and increase tumor penetration. Aim: This study aimed at using poly(lactic-co-glycolic)acid (PLGA) and chitosan (CS) nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle for targeted alpha therapy of prostate cancer in order to increase the therapeutic effect of ²²⁵Ac PSMA617-TFA. Methods and Results: PLGA nanoparticles were prepared using a nanoprecipitation method, after which they were functionalized with chitosan and folic acid. Following synthesis of ²²⁵Ac PSMA617-TFA, the radiopharmaceutical was loaded onto the nanoparticles. SEM analysis and FTIR were performed for characterization of the nanoparticles, and in-vitro drug release of ²²⁵Ac PSMA617-TFA at pH = 6.5 and pH = 7.4, respectively, was measured. The nanoparticles prepared had an average size of 200 nm and had a positive charge. This was further confirmed using a zetasizer and with scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. The PLGA-CS nanoparticles indicated a high encapsulation efficiency after 24 h. The results also showed a controlled release of ²²⁵Ac PSMA617-TFA over 72 h. The results of this study indicate that PLGA-CS nanoparticles are suitable for retaining ²²⁵Ac and its recoiling daughters (²²¹Fr and ²¹³Bi) at the tumor site, potentially providing a platform for future therapeutic evaluation. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that PLGA-CS nanoparticles demonstrate feasibility as a drug delivery vehicle for ²²⁵Ac PSMA617-TFA, with effective retention of ²²⁵Ac and its decay daughters. However, biological validation through in vitro cellular studies and in vivo preclinical models is required before therapeutic effectiveness can be established. Full article

The escalation of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a serious global threat to public health, with AMR-associated mortality estimated to increase by 70% by 2050. As pathogens evolve through enzymatic inactivation, target modification, efflux-mediated clearance, biofilm formation, and broader genetic adaptation, conventional therapies are increasingly compromised, while the antibiotic development pipeline remains critically constrained by high discovery and development costs, weak commercial incentives, and the escalating complexity of resistance mechanisms. This review comprehensively synthesizes advanced pharmacological and biotechnological innovations designed to circumvent these entrenched resistance mechanisms. We highlight the development of novel therapeutic classes, particularly lariocidin, which disrupts bacterial protein synthesis via a previously unexploited ribosomal-binding site. Moreover, we critically evaluate molecular interventions, emphasizing CRISPR/Cas-based gene silencing and genome editing as precise tools to neutralize specific resistance determinants, such as the mecA gene in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Concurrently, we explore the integration of engineered nanoparticles to revitalize existing antimicrobials by overcoming biofilm barriers, improving drug solubility, and enabling targeted delivery. Collectively, mastering the evolving AMR landscape requires a multidimensional framework that seamlessly integrates these novel molecular targets with advanced rapid diagnostics and robust international governance. Full article

Quantum Dots (QDs) are nanoparticles that are highly desirable for biomedical applications such as drug delivery, cellular tracking, and imaging due to their fluorescent and tunable optical properties. However, the biochemical mechanism of their interaction with intracellular proteins that regulate cytoskeletal organization remains poorly understood. While previous studies have shown QDs’ ability to interact with actin and alter actin dynamics, their impacts on actin-binding proteins have not been explored. In this study, we investigated the interaction between CdSe/ZnS QDs and the actin-binding protein, α-actinin, and assessed its impact on actin cytoskeletal organization. Our results demonstrated a strong interaction between QDs and α-actinin, which impeded an α-actinin-mediated filamentous actin (F-actin) bundling, as well as compromised the activity of α-actinin in preventing actin depolymerization. Furthermore, the physics-based modeling and simulations carried out at physiological temperatures supported these findings by identifying stable interaction surfaces between QDs and α-actinin. This study provides mechanistic insight into nanoparticle–protein interactions and highlights the potential cytoskeletal toxicity associated with it. Full article