Journal of Nanotheranostics

25 pages, 13479 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advances in Photothermal and Photodynamic Nanotheranostics for Precision Cancer Treatment

by Hossein Omidian and Sumana Dey Chowdhury

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(4), 228-252; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5040014 - 13 Dec 2024

Nanotheranostics, combining photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT), can transform precision cancer treatment by integrating diagnosis and therapy into a single platform. This review highlights recent advances in nanomaterials, drug delivery systems, and stimuli-responsive mechanisms for effective PTT and PDT. Multifunctional nanoparticles [...] Read more.

Nanotheranostics, combining photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT), can transform precision cancer treatment by integrating diagnosis and therapy into a single platform. This review highlights recent advances in nanomaterials, drug delivery systems, and stimuli-responsive mechanisms for effective PTT and PDT. Multifunctional nanoparticles enable targeted delivery, multimodal imaging, and controlled drug release, overcoming the challenges posed by tumor microenvironments. Emerging approaches such as hybrid therapies and immune activation further enhance therapeutic efficacy. This paper discusses the limitations of nanotheranostics, including synthesis complexity and limited tissue penetration, and explores future directions toward biocompatible, scalable, and clinically translatable solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Application of Nanomaterials and Nanobiotechnology in Cancer)

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16 pages, 4799 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Exploring the Role of Fibroblasts in Promoting Neuroblastoma Cell Migration and Invasion

by Diana Corallo, Cristina Nardelli, Marcella Pantile, Sara Menegazzo, Alessandra Biffi and Sanja Aveic

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(4), 212-227; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5040013 - 8 Dec 2024

Abstract

Neuroblastoma, the most common pediatric extracranial solid tumor, arises from the malignant transformation of neural crest progenitors in the peripheral nervous system. Its clinical and genetic heterogeneity poses significant challenges, especially in high-risk patients with metastatic disease. Two plastic neuroblastoma cell phenotypes, adrenergic [...] Read more.

Neuroblastoma, the most common pediatric extracranial solid tumor, arises from the malignant transformation of neural crest progenitors in the peripheral nervous system. Its clinical and genetic heterogeneity poses significant challenges, especially in high-risk patients with metastatic disease. Two plastic neuroblastoma cell phenotypes, adrenergic (ADR) and mesenchymal (MES), have been identified. Notably, MES neuroblastoma cells exhibit increased migration and chemoresistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment further promote tumor aggressiveness by enhancing cancer cell proliferation, extracellular matrix remodeling, angiogenesis and metastasis. This study explored the role of non-activated fibroblasts in ADR and MES neuroblastoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Results showed that MES and ADR neuroblastoma cells influenced fibroblast activation into CAFs differently, with MES cells promoting a more invasive environment leading to tumor spread. These findings enhance our understanding of how ADR and MES phenotypes contribute to the formation of a pro-metastatic niche by activating fibroblasts in CAFs. This insight could inform new therapeutic strategies targeting the tumor microenvironment to prevent neuroblastoma metastasis. Full article

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24 pages, 951 KiB

Open AccessReview

Characteristics and Preparation of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles and Nanostructured Lipid Carriers

by Marjorie de Carvalho Vieira Queiroz and Luís Alexandre Muehlmann

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(4), 188-211; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5040012 - 25 Nov 2024

Abstract

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) have emerged as promising systems for delivering active ingredients. They are derived from physiological, biodegradable, and biocompatible lipids, offering benefits such as sustained release promotion and increased drug stability. These systems are apt for [...] Read more.

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) have emerged as promising systems for delivering active ingredients. They are derived from physiological, biodegradable, and biocompatible lipids, offering benefits such as sustained release promotion and increased drug stability. These systems are apt for the efficient transport of therapeutic drugs to target tissues while also providing advantages such as facilitating large-scale industrial production, bioavailability, and protection against degradation. The preparation of these nanoparticles involves utilizing diverse types of lipids, surfactants, and solvents. Common lipid varieties encompass triglycerides, steroids, and fatty acids, selected based on the active ingredient for stabilization within the lipid matrix. Preparation methods can be categorized into high-energy and low-energy approaches. This study investigated the differences between the main methodologies used, comparing SLN and NLC systems, and scrutinizing their respective advantages, disadvantages, and applications. Full article

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21 pages, 4519 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nanotechnology-Enhanced Orthopaedic Surgery

by Alexander Shao-Rong Pang, Zi Qiang Glen Liau, Jacob Yoong-Leong Oh and Dinesh Kumar Srinivasan

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(4), 167-187; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5040011 - 13 Nov 2024

Abstract

Nanomaterials hold significant promise for the future of orthopaedic implants due to their ability to mimic the nanoscale components of the bone, such as collagen fibrils and hydroxyapatite. Nanomaterials can regulate cell behaviour while offering mechanical strength and biocompatibility, making them ideal for [...] Read more.

Nanomaterials hold significant promise for the future of orthopaedic implants due to their ability to mimic the nanoscale components of the bone, such as collagen fibrils and hydroxyapatite. Nanomaterials can regulate cell behaviour while offering mechanical strength and biocompatibility, making them ideal for bone repair and tissue regeneration. This comprehensive review explores the key existing and potential applications of nanotechnology in orthopaedics, including bone tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, systems combatting implant-related infections, and the surface preparation of implants to enhance osseointegration. These innovations are poised to revolutionise orthopaedic care by improving implant durability, reducing infection risks, and promoting bone regeneration to deliver personalised treatment and create better patient outcomes. Full article

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34 pages, 2567 KiB

Open AccessReview

Drug Delivery Systems for Infectious Eye Diseases: Advancements and Prospects

by Binapani Mahaling, Namrata Baruah and Aumreetam Dinabandhu

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(4), 133-166; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5040010 - 6 Oct 2024

Abstract

Infectious ocular diseases like keratitis, conjunctivitis, and endophthalmitis pose significant clinical challenges due to the complexities of delivering drugs to the eye. Recent advancements in drug delivery systems offer promising improvements for treating these conditions. Key strategies include targeted delivery through physicochemical modifications, [...] Read more.

Infectious ocular diseases like keratitis, conjunctivitis, and endophthalmitis pose significant clinical challenges due to the complexities of delivering drugs to the eye. Recent advancements in drug delivery systems offer promising improvements for treating these conditions. Key strategies include targeted delivery through physicochemical modifications, magnetic nanoparticles, and ligand-receptor interactions. This review explores the safety and biocompatibility of ocular drug delivery systems through in vivo ocular toxicity studies, in vitro cytotoxicity assays, hemocompatibility studies, ocular tolerance tests, and genotoxicity assays. It also examines combination therapies and stimuli-responsive delivery systems for their potential to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, we discuss tailored and optimized drug delivery approaches for infectious ocular diseases, outlining current challenges and future directions for developing effective ocular drug delivery systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoengineered Solutions: Advancements in Targeted Drug Delivery and Theranostics)

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5 pages, 366 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

How Reproducible Is Feraheme^® (Ferumoxytol Injection)? Comparison of Size, Zeta Potential, and Complement Activation of Different Batches over 15 Years

by Utibeabasi Ettah, Sarah Jacques and Dmitri Simberg

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(3), 128-132; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5030009 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Ferumoxytol injection, also known as Feraheme^®, is an approved IV injectable iron supplement and an experimental MRI contrast agent. Initially, it was approved as an IV bolus agent, but its use was later limited to a slow infusion drip due to [...] Read more.

Ferumoxytol injection, also known as Feraheme^®, is an approved IV injectable iron supplement and an experimental MRI contrast agent. Initially, it was approved as an IV bolus agent, but its use was later limited to a slow infusion drip due to high levels of infusion reactions. We collected various batches of ferumoxytol with expiration dates ranging from 2010 to 2025 and compared their size and zeta potential. Since nanoparticle surface properties can affect infusion reactions, we conducted a dot blot immunoassay to measure complement C3 opsonization with ferumoxytol preparations. We observed differences in nanoparticle size and zeta potential between batches and a 2.5-fold variation in complement activation. Interestingly, older batches from 2010 showed more uniform size distribution and lower complement activation than some of the newer batches. This finding may be valuable to the nanomedicine community and regulatory authorities. Full article

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24 pages, 2828 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advanced Characterization and Sample Preparation Strategies for Nanoformulations

by Akanksha Nadkarni, Dhwani Rana, Nimeet Desai, Derajram Benival, Vishvesh Joshi, Sagar Salave and Dignesh Khunt

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(3), 104-127; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5030008 - 14 Aug 2024

Abstract

The escalating impact and remarkable progress of nanotechnology have shifted the paradigms of medicine and the healthcare system. Nanosystems have emerged, extensively holding the potential to advance disease diagnosis and treatment specificity. The extraordinary attributes imparted by nano-systems have helped in overcoming the [...] Read more.

The escalating impact and remarkable progress of nanotechnology have shifted the paradigms of medicine and the healthcare system. Nanosystems have emerged, extensively holding the potential to advance disease diagnosis and treatment specificity. The extraordinary attributes imparted by nano-systems have helped in overcoming the limitations of conventional interventions to an extent and led to targeted therapy, to name one. The role of nanotechnology in diagnosis is another breakthrough in its appellation. This article aims to address the current characterization and sample preparation techniques for the analysis of nanosystems and provide insights into novel methodologies and in situ instrumentation that have eased sampling procedures. Full article

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5 pages, 191 KiB

Open AccessOpinion

Anti-Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) Antibodies: From Where Are We Coming and Where Are We Going

by Dmitri Simberg and S. Moein Moghimi

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(3), 99-103; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5030007 - 29 Jul 2024

Abstract

PEGylation technology confers stability and modulates the biological performance of a broad range of preclinical and clinical nanopharmaceuticals. However, the emerging PEG immunogenicity in the general population is thought to impact the efficacy and safety of PEGylated medicines. Despite this, the clinical significance [...] Read more.

PEGylation technology confers stability and modulates the biological performance of a broad range of preclinical and clinical nanopharmaceuticals. However, the emerging PEG immunogenicity in the general population is thought to impact the efficacy and safety of PEGylated medicines. Despite this, the clinical significance of PEG immunogenicity is still not clear and remains debatable. By considering the strategic importance of the PEGylation technology in nanopharmaceutical engineering, we raise a number of critical questions and briefly discuss gaps in the knowledge of PEG immunogenicity and its clinical significance. Full article

15 pages, 6371 KiB

Open AccessReview

Paradoxical Roles of Carbon Nanotubes in Cancer Therapy and Carcinogenesis

by Bohan Xu, Shunjie Wu, Yiyang Wang, Yuhe Ji, Shufeng Liang, Chunyan Wang and Xin Tian

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(3), 84-98; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5030006 - 8 Jul 2024

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), members of the nanomaterial family, are increasingly being used in consumer products and extensively studied for various biomedical applications. Due to their benign elemental composition, large surface area, and chemical and biological activities, CNTs demonstrate great potential in cancer therapy, [...] Read more.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), members of the nanomaterial family, are increasingly being used in consumer products and extensively studied for various biomedical applications. Due to their benign elemental composition, large surface area, and chemical and biological activities, CNTs demonstrate great potential in cancer therapy, including drug delivery, imaging analysis, photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, and radiotherapy. However, there is still a major knowledge gap when it comes to transitioning from research to clinical applications. One of the important issues is that the biological toxicity of CNTs, especially in terms of carcinogenesis, and the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Therefore, a thorough evaluation of toxicity and the underlying mechanisms of carcinogenesis is essential to enable the wide application of CNTs. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of CNTs as multifunctional therapeutics in cancer therapy. Furthermore, a detailed discussion is provided on the carcinogenesis and potential mechanisms of CNTs. Finally, the review ends with further challenges and prospects for CNTs with the expectation of facilitating their broader utilization. Full article

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9 pages, 1486 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nano-Enabled Colorimetric Assay for the Detection of Paracoccidioides lutzii: Advancing Diagnostics with Nanotechnology

by Olavo O. Comparato Filho, Marcela A. Cândido, Aveline Ventura, Flavia V. Morais and Leandro Raniero

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(3), 75-83; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5030005 - 26 Jun 2024

Abstract

Deforestation is a common occurrence driven by agricultural expansion, urbanization, and infrastructure development. These activities often lead to increased human interaction with ecosystems, potentially exposing individuals to Paracoccidioides spores (P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii) found in the soil, resulting in Paracoccidioidomycosis [...] Read more.

Deforestation is a common occurrence driven by agricultural expansion, urbanization, and infrastructure development. These activities often lead to increased human interaction with ecosystems, potentially exposing individuals to Paracoccidioides spores (P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii) found in the soil, resulting in Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM). This fungal infection is endemic to specific regions in Latin America, such as Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, and Argentina. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical assessment, imaging techniques, and laboratory examinations. P. lutzii lacks the glycoprotein Gp43, a key antigenic protein utilized in serological tests for PCM diagnosis. In this study, a colorimetric test employing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and label-free methodology was employed for P. lutzii detection. The effectiveness of the label-free colorimetric test was assessed using a total of 100 samples. This detection was achieved through the amplification of the gp43 gene and the use of a specific probe (5′CAGGGGTGCG3′) in conjunction with AuNPs. The receiver operating characteristic curve was employed to assess the test, revealing that the method can accurately detect P. lutzii with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 100%. The findings indicate a substantial impact on remote endemic regions attributable to the implementation of cost-effective diagnostic methodologies. Full article

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15 pages, 582 KiB

Open AccessReview

Titanium Dioxide-Based Nanoparticles to Enhance Radiation Therapy for Cancer: A Literature Review

by Masao Nakayama, Hiroaki Akasaka, Ryohei Sasaki and Moshi Geso

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(2), 60-74; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5020004 - 31 May 2024

Abstract

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) have been investigated as one of the potential dose enhancement agents for radiation therapy. The role of TiO₂ NPs as a photodynamic sensitiser has been well documented, but its sensitisation with X-rays is not highlighted. Unlike [...] Read more.

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) have been investigated as one of the potential dose enhancement agents for radiation therapy. The role of TiO₂ NPs as a photodynamic sensitiser has been well documented, but its sensitisation with X-rays is not highlighted. Unlike other metal NPs, such as gold NPs, the main challenge for TiO₂ NPs as radiosensitisers is their low atomic number, resulting in a small cross-section for X-rays. This review summarises the results of current research in this area to explore the dose enhancement inflicted by TiO₂ NPs, which could potentially be of great value in improving radiation therapy efficiency. Full article

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31 pages, 7679 KiB

Open AccessReview

Unlocking the Potential of Gold as Nanomedicine in Cancer Immunotherapy

by Panangattukara Prabhakaran Praveen Kumar, Maggie Lee and Taeho Kim

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(2), 29-59; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5020003 - 30 Apr 2024

Cited by 1

Abstract

Nanotechnology advancements have resulted in many sensors and devices for biomedical applications. Among the various nanomaterials, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), due to their size, shape, biocompatibility, and unique plasmonic property, are an excellent candidate for many biomedical applications. AuNPs, known for their easy surface [...] Read more.

Nanotechnology advancements have resulted in many sensors and devices for biomedical applications. Among the various nanomaterials, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), due to their size, shape, biocompatibility, and unique plasmonic property, are an excellent candidate for many biomedical applications. AuNPs, known for their easy surface modifications, robust nature, and photothermal activities, find application in drug delivery and cancer treatment studies. In this review, we are highlighting the recent trends in using AuNPs as nanomedicine for cancer immunotherapy. Cancer immunotherapy not only eliminates the primary tumors but also allows for the treatment of metastasis along with the recurrence of the tumor. AuNPs possess tissue-specific delivery functions that depend on the tunability in size and surface functionalization of AuNPs. AuNPs can be used to activate the tumor’s immune defense ability, or they can be used to enhance the anti-tumor immune response. Understanding the interaction of the tumor environment and nanobiomedicine is very important. In the present review, we give an idea of the mode of action of AuNPs and various combinations of therapies for cancer immunotherapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventional Nanotheranostics for Translational Nano-Immunotherapy)

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16 pages, 3972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Graphene Oxide Chemical Refining Screening to Improve Blood Compatibility of Graphene-Based Nanomaterials

by Fabio Pieretti, Alessandro Moretto, Emanuele Papini and Regina Tavano

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(1), 13-28; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5010002 - 20 Feb 2024

Abstract

Graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles, due to their favorable water solubility, compared to graphene (GA), are a hot research topic in biomedical and pharmaceutical research. However, GO clinical translation may be complicated by its high surface/volume ratio enhancing the interaction with human blood components. [...] Read more.

Graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles, due to their favorable water solubility, compared to graphene (GA), are a hot research topic in biomedical and pharmaceutical research. However, GO clinical translation may be complicated by its high surface/volume ratio enhancing the interaction with human blood components. In fact, GO’s bi-dimensional nature and strong negative charge may lead to severe biological effects, such as thrombogenicity and immune cell activation. This study explores the impact of further GO surface chemical modulation on major adverse effects: blood plasma coagulation and hemolysis. To this aim, we refined GO nanoparticles by fine-tuned reduction chemistry, esterification and introduction of negative or positive charges. With this approach, we were able to mitigate plasma coagulation and hemolysis at variable degrees and to identify GO derivatives with improved biocompatibility. This opens the door to the progress of graphene-based nanotheranostic applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Nanomaterials as Nano-Theranostic Tools in Disease Treatment)

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12 pages, 3820 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Fullerenes in Neurodegenerative Disorders

by Daisy L. Wilson, Jyoti Ahlawat and Mahesh Narayan

J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(1), 1-12; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt5010001 - 16 Jan 2024

Abstract

The use of carbon nanomaterials including fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, carbon nano-onions, carbon dots and carbon quantum dots for environmental applications has increased substantially. These nanoparticles are now used in the development of sensors and switches, in agriculture as smart fertilizers and in the [...] Read more.

The use of carbon nanomaterials including fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, carbon nano-onions, carbon dots and carbon quantum dots for environmental applications has increased substantially. These nanoparticles are now used in the development of sensors and switches, in agriculture as smart fertilizers and in the biomedical realm for cancer therapy intervention, as antioxidants, in gene delivery and as theranostics. Here, we review the role of fullerenes as neuroprotectants. Their sp² hybridized architectures and ability to intervene in the soluble-to-toxic transformation of amyloidogenic trajectories is highlighted here, along with other physico–chemical properties that impact interventional efficacy. Also highlighted are drawbacks that need to be overcome and future prospects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Innovations in Theranostic Nanobiomaterials)

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16 pages, 3191 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficacy of 15 nm Gold Nanoparticles for Image-Guided Gliosarcoma Radiotherapy

by Elette Engels, Michael Lerch, Stéphanie Corde and Moeava Tehei

J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(4), 480-495; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt4040021 - 26 Oct 2023

Cited by 2

Abstract

Targeted brain cancer treatments are sorely needed to improve long-term prognosis, particularly for gliosarcoma and glioblastoma patients. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have unique properties including high atomic number, biocompatibility, and small size for cancer cell internalization. GNPs are consequently an ideal candidate for improved [...] Read more.

Targeted brain cancer treatments are sorely needed to improve long-term prognosis, particularly for gliosarcoma and glioblastoma patients. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have unique properties including high atomic number, biocompatibility, and small size for cancer cell internalization. GNPs are consequently an ideal candidate for improved cancer targeting using image-guided radiotherapy. This work investigated 15 nm AuroVist^TM GNPs for image-guided gliosarcoma radiotherapy and identified optimum GNP concentrations. The GNPs were found to be 15–20 nm using optical surface plasmon resonance absorption, with a (41.3 ± 0.3) nm hydrodynamic diameter. Confocal imaging showed that 50–500 µg/mL of the GNPs was well-internalized into the 9L cells within 24–48 h. γ-H2AX assays showed that 50–500 µg/mL of the GNPs radiosensitized the 9L cells irradiated with 125 and 150 kVp X-rays. However, only 500 µg/mL of the GNPs produced significant long-term dose enhancement with 150 kVp X-rays (with a sensitization enhancement ratio at 10% survival of 1.43, and 1.13 with 50 µg/mL) using clonogenic assay. CT imaging of the GNPs in the 9L tumors in Fischer rats further showed that GNP concentrations above 500 µg/mL were required to distinguish the tumor from the brain, and the GNPs were detected 48 h after injection. These promising results indicate that the GNPs can be used for selective gliosarcoma treatment with image-guided X-ray radiotherapy at concentrations above 500 µg/mL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Strategies in Nanomedicine)

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17 pages, 727 KiB

Open AccessReview

Enhancing Antibody Exposure in the Central Nervous System: Mechanisms of Uptake, Clearance, and Strategies for Improved Brain Delivery

by Kelly Schwinghamer and Teruna J. Siahaan

J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(4), 463-479; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt4040020 - 2 Oct 2023

Cited by 3

Abstract

Antibodies (mAbs) are attractive molecules for their application as a diagnostic and therapeutic agent for diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). mAbs can be generated to have high affinity and specificity to target molecules in the CNS. Unfortunately, only a very small [...] Read more.

Antibodies (mAbs) are attractive molecules for their application as a diagnostic and therapeutic agent for diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). mAbs can be generated to have high affinity and specificity to target molecules in the CNS. Unfortunately, only a very small number of mAbs have been specifically developed and approved for neurological indications. This is primarily attributed to their low exposure within the CNS, hindering their ability to reach and effectively engage their potential targets in the brain. This review discusses aspects of various barriers such as the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and blood–cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier (BCSFB) that regulate the entry and clearance of mAbs into and from the brain. The roles of the glymphatic system on brain exposure and clearance are being described. We also discuss the proposed mechanisms of the uptake of mAbs into the brain and for clearance. Finally, several methods of enhancing the exposure of mAbs in the CNS were discussed, including receptor-mediated transcytosis, osmotic BBB opening, focused ultrasound (FUS), BBB-modulating peptides, and enhancement of mAb brain retention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Papers of the Editorial Board Members)

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34 pages, 5109 KiB

Open AccessReview

Recent Advances in Combating Bacterial Infections by Using Hybrid Nano-Systems

by Unnati Patel and Emily C. Hunt

J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 429-462; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt4030019 - 8 Sep 2023

Cited by 4

Abstract

In recent years, antimicrobial resistance in many human pathogens has become a serious health concern. Since infections with resistant pathogens cannot be treated with traditional antimicrobial drugs, new strategies are necessary to fight bacterial infections. Hybrid nano-systems may provide a solution to this [...] Read more.

In recent years, antimicrobial resistance in many human pathogens has become a serious health concern. Since infections with resistant pathogens cannot be treated with traditional antimicrobial drugs, new strategies are necessary to fight bacterial infections. Hybrid nano-systems may provide a solution to this problem, by combining multiple mechanisms for killing bacteria to synergistically increase the effectiveness of the antimicrobial treatment. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the development of hybrid nano-systems for the treatment of bacterial infections. We discuss the use of hybrid nano-systems for combinational therapy, focusing on various triggering mechanisms for drug release and the development of biomimetic nanomaterials. We also examine inherently antimicrobial nano-systems and their uses in preventing infections due to wounds and medical implants. This review summarizes recent advances and provides insight into the future development of antimicrobial treatments using hybrid nanomaterials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Innovations in Theranostic Nanobiomaterials)

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21 pages, 1526 KiB

Open AccessReview

Aptamers as Theranostics in Cardiovascular Diseases

by Manish Ramchandani, Priyanka Kumari and Amit K. Goyal

J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 408-428; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt4030018 - 6 Sep 2023

Cited by 1

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (particularly atherosclerosis) is a leading cause of death around the world, and there still exists a need for improved diagnostic techniques and treatments to improve patient outcomes as well as minimize the disease’s global burden. Aptamers are short, single-stranded DNA or [...] Read more.

Cardiovascular disease (particularly atherosclerosis) is a leading cause of death around the world, and there still exists a need for improved diagnostic techniques and treatments to improve patient outcomes as well as minimize the disease’s global burden. Aptamers are short, single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules that are accompanied by unique characteristics such as specificity, high binding affinity, ease of cellular internalization, and rapid tissue accumulation capabilities, offering great potential as theranostic agents in cardiovascular diseases with significantly improved sensitivity and accuracy. These theranostic agents provide a combination of therapy and diagnostics in which aptamers may diagnose and treat disease simultaneously. Therefore, this review article summarizes the role of aptamer-based probes for imaging and theranostics in cardiovascular disease. It also provides insight into current research and future treatment techniques that are very relevant for future clinical practice with the aim of improving the quality of life of cardiovascular disease patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventional Nanotheranostics for Translational Nano-Immunotherapy)

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24 pages, 5088 KiB

Open AccessReview

Smart Platinum Nanostructures: A Journey from Synthesis to Advanced Theranostic Applications

by Akash Kumar, Nabojit Das and Raja Gopal Rayavarapu

J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 384-407; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt4030017 - 10 Aug 2023

Cited by 3

Abstract

A significant paradigm shift has been observed in the past decade in the area of theranostics owing to the development of various isotropic and anisotropic metal nanostructures, simultaneous with improved imaging modalities. Platinum-based nanostructures are advancing in a plethora of clinical applications as [...] Read more.

A significant paradigm shift has been observed in the past decade in the area of theranostics owing to the development of various isotropic and anisotropic metal nanostructures, simultaneous with improved imaging modalities. Platinum-based nanostructures are advancing in a plethora of clinical applications as theranostics tools owing to their unique behavior concerning their size, shape, and surface chemistry at the nanoscale regime. Platinum nanostructures are optically active and provide significant potential to the field of theranostics by simplifying diagnosis and therapeutics, thus providing key solutions through nano-enabled technologies. The review emphasizes the potential of platinum nanostructures that have immense potential in vitro and in vivo scenarios as nanocarriers. Still, their potential in terms of photothermal active agents has not been well explored or reported. Nanotheranostics has emerged as a platform where various noble metal nanoparticles are effectively efficient as photothermal agents in bringing precision to therapy and diagnostics. Platinum, as an antioxidant and a stable nanocarrier, will enable them to act as photosensitizers when conjugated to affinity molecules and plays a key role in efficient treatment and diagnosis. The review envisions bringing together the possibilities of the safe-by-design synthesis of platinum nanostructures and their potential role in both in vitro and in vivo applications. A roadmap describing the challenges, pitfalls, and possibilities of influencing platinum nanostructures to overcome the existing biological/targeting barriers is elaborated. This review provides a literature survey on platinum nanostructures in theranostics, providing novel strategies in bio-imaging, diagnostics, and nanomedicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Nano-Bio Interaction for Nanotheranostic Applications)

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