Chronic wounds associated with diabetes represent a persistent clinical challenge, primarily due to their delayed healing dynamics and heightened vulnerability to microbial invasion, which can precipitate serious adverse outcomes. In response to these issues, we have developed a nanofiber scaffold loaded with trimethyl chitosan-derived ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-TMC-NPs-NFs) to enhance diabetic wound-healing therapy. The developed nanoparticle (ZnO-TMC-NPs) has a nanoparticle size of 16.1 ± 3.7 nm and a zeta potential of +26.3 ± 1.7 mV. Integration of ZnO-TMC-NPs into chitosan poly(vinyl-alcohol) nanofiber scaffolds was performed to develop nanoformulation ranging between 120 and 240 nm. Moreover, the robustness of this research is enhanced by in vitro cell line evaluations using L-929 mouse fibroblast and A-549 lung cancer cell lines, and by integrating in vivo optical modalities with advanced ultrasound/photoacoustic (PA) imaging. Collectively, the results underscore the therapeutic promise of this nanofibrous scaffold, particularly when functionalized with TMC-ZnO, as a viable intervention for diabetic wound management.
{"title":"Photoacoustic imaging and biodistribution analysis of trimethyl chitosan-stabilized ZnO nanoparticles embedded in nanofiber scaffolds for diabetic wound healing.","authors":"Ankit Kumar Malik, Pooja Goswami, Vaishali, Rajesh Saini, Datta Maroti Pawde, Aseem Setia, Biplob Koch, Madaswamy S Muthu","doi":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102908","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nano.2026.102908","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Chronic wounds associated with diabetes represent a persistent clinical challenge, primarily due to their delayed healing dynamics and heightened vulnerability to microbial invasion, which can precipitate serious adverse outcomes. In response to these issues, we have developed a nanofiber scaffold loaded with trimethyl chitosan-derived ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-TMC-NPs-NFs) to enhance diabetic wound-healing therapy. The developed nanoparticle (ZnO-TMC-NPs) has a nanoparticle size of 16.1 ± 3.7 nm and a zeta potential of +26.3 ± 1.7 mV. Integration of ZnO-TMC-NPs into chitosan poly(vinyl-alcohol) nanofiber scaffolds was performed to develop nanoformulation ranging between 120 and 240 nm. Moreover, the robustness of this research is enhanced by in vitro cell line evaluations using L-929 mouse fibroblast and A-549 lung cancer cell lines, and by integrating in vivo optical modalities with advanced ultrasound/photoacoustic (PA) imaging. Collectively, the results underscore the therapeutic promise of this nanofibrous scaffold, particularly when functionalized with TMC-ZnO, as a viable intervention for diabetic wound management.</p>","PeriodicalId":19050,"journal":{"name":"Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine","volume":" ","pages":"102908"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146125927","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-03DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2026.102909
Yalda Yazdani, Vahid Alivirdiloo, Mobasher Hajiabbasi, Mahya Mohammadi, Somayye Hosseini, Sogand Omidi Gargari, Reza Kheradmand, Faezeh Hatefnia, Ahmad Mobed
Nanoparticle-based drug delivery and molecular imaging methods offer promising advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of stroke, addressing key challenges such as the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and limited imaging resolution. Nanocarriers like PEGylated liposomes, exosomes, and polymeric nanoparticles have shown improved drug targeting, enhanced therapeutic efficacy, and reduced side effects in stroke treatment. In molecular imaging, nanoparticle-enhanced techniques, including PET, MRI, and CT, enable more precise detection of ischemic areas and thrombus formation, though limitations such as low signal sensitivity and poor tissue penetration persist. While these approaches demonstrate significant potential, challenges remain, including nanoparticle toxicity, imaging insensitivity, and the need for combination imaging methods. Looking ahead, future research should focus on overcoming these barriers through the development of multifunctional nanoparticles for theranostics, which combine drug delivery with real-time imaging. Further advancements in molecular imaging and personalized nanomedicine could enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment personalization. With continued innovation, nanoparticle-based strategies could revolutionize stroke management, improving both therapeutic outcomes and diagnostic precision in clinical settings.
{"title":"Nanoparticle-enhanced approaches to stroke: Overcoming challenges in diagnosis and treatment.","authors":"Yalda Yazdani, Vahid Alivirdiloo, Mobasher Hajiabbasi, Mahya Mohammadi, Somayye Hosseini, Sogand Omidi Gargari, Reza Kheradmand, Faezeh Hatefnia, Ahmad Mobed","doi":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102909","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nano.2026.102909","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Nanoparticle-based drug delivery and molecular imaging methods offer promising advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of stroke, addressing key challenges such as the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and limited imaging resolution. Nanocarriers like PEGylated liposomes, exosomes, and polymeric nanoparticles have shown improved drug targeting, enhanced therapeutic efficacy, and reduced side effects in stroke treatment. In molecular imaging, nanoparticle-enhanced techniques, including PET, MRI, and CT, enable more precise detection of ischemic areas and thrombus formation, though limitations such as low signal sensitivity and poor tissue penetration persist. While these approaches demonstrate significant potential, challenges remain, including nanoparticle toxicity, imaging insensitivity, and the need for combination imaging methods. Looking ahead, future research should focus on overcoming these barriers through the development of multifunctional nanoparticles for theranostics, which combine drug delivery with real-time imaging. Further advancements in molecular imaging and personalized nanomedicine could enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment personalization. With continued innovation, nanoparticle-based strategies could revolutionize stroke management, improving both therapeutic outcomes and diagnostic precision in clinical settings.</p>","PeriodicalId":19050,"journal":{"name":"Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine","volume":" ","pages":"102909"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146125882","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly lethal malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, largely due to its asymptomatic progression and the limited therapeutic efficacy available for advanced stages. Glypican-3 (GPC3), a membrane-bound heparan sulfate proteoglycan, is overexpressed in approximately 70-80% of HCC cases while remaining absent in healthy liver tissue, making it an ideal theranostic target. In this study, we developed a novel 131I-labeled anti-GPC3 antibody. This radiopharmaceutical was synthesized with a high labeling yield (~93%) and demonstrated robust in vitro stability (with >81% radiochemical purity retained at 120 h). In vitro MTT assays revealed dose-dependent cytotoxicity, with cell viability significantly reduced to 27.7% at a dose of 6 μCi. In vivo evaluation in a spontaneous HCC mouse model confirmed strong GPC3 expression restricted specifically to tumor tissues. Biodistribution analysis further revealed preferential tumor accumulation (~1.3% injected dose per gram) with minimal radioactivity in non-target organs. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the feasibility and therapeutic potential of 131I-GPC3 as a targeted theranostic radiopharmaceutical for HCC and other GPC3-expressing malignancies.
{"title":"Theranostic application of <sup>131</sup>I-labeled anti-glypican-3 antibody for targeted radioimmunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma.","authors":"Ming-Hui Yang, Kuo-Pin Chuang, Hsin-Rou Liang, Po-Chiao Huang, Shih-Chang Chuang, Tzu-Chuan Ho, Ying-Fong Huang, Cheng-Hui Yuan, Yu-Chang Tyan","doi":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102907","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102907","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly lethal malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, largely due to its asymptomatic progression and the limited therapeutic efficacy available for advanced stages. Glypican-3 (GPC3), a membrane-bound heparan sulfate proteoglycan, is overexpressed in approximately 70-80% of HCC cases while remaining absent in healthy liver tissue, making it an ideal theranostic target. In this study, we developed a novel <sup>131</sup>I-labeled anti-GPC3 antibody. This radiopharmaceutical was synthesized with a high labeling yield (~93%) and demonstrated robust in vitro stability (with >81% radiochemical purity retained at 120 h). In vitro MTT assays revealed dose-dependent cytotoxicity, with cell viability significantly reduced to 27.7% at a dose of 6 μCi. In vivo evaluation in a spontaneous HCC mouse model confirmed strong GPC3 expression restricted specifically to tumor tissues. Biodistribution analysis further revealed preferential tumor accumulation (~1.3% injected dose per gram) with minimal radioactivity in non-target organs. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the feasibility and therapeutic potential of <sup>131</sup>I-GPC3 as a targeted theranostic radiopharmaceutical for HCC and other GPC3-expressing malignancies.</p>","PeriodicalId":19050,"journal":{"name":"Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine","volume":" ","pages":"102907"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146125915","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2026.102906
Gong Yi Yong , Sastiya Kampaengsri , Susan Ling Ling Hoe , Lu Ping Tan , Anyanee Kamkaew , Chin Siang Kue
Photothermal therapy (PTT) induces immunogenic tumour cell death and stimulates both innate and adaptive immunity. In our previous study, we showed promising in vitro and in ovo anti-tumour efficacies of a quinoline-modified heptamethine cyanine (QuCy7) encapsulated with polyethylene glycol (PEG), forming QuCy7@mPEG NPs. This study evaluated its anti-tumour efficacy and immunomodulatory effects in a syngeneic breast cancer mouse model. QuCy7@mPEG NPs induced stronger hyperthermic effect (~45 °C) compared to QuCy7 alone (~40 °C), significantly delayed tumour growth (84.9%) and achieved 50% tumour elimination. Cytokine analysis showed elevated levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-17A, along with reduced TGF-β expression. Post-treatment, increased infiltration of neutrophils, IL-6-producing M1-like macrophages, T-helper 1, and cytotoxic T cells was observed. Notably, QuCy7@mPEG NPs enhanced long-term tumour-specific immunity, evidenced by rapid CD4+ effector memory T cells activation upon tumour re-challenge. These findings highlight the potential of QuCy7@mPEG NPs as an immune-stimulatory photothermal agent for cancer treatment.
{"title":"PEGylated heptamethine cyanine nanoparticles improve photothermal efficacy and elicit durable anti-tumour immunity in breast cancer mouse model","authors":"Gong Yi Yong , Sastiya Kampaengsri , Susan Ling Ling Hoe , Lu Ping Tan , Anyanee Kamkaew , Chin Siang Kue","doi":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102906","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102906","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Photothermal therapy (PTT) induces immunogenic tumour cell death and stimulates both innate and adaptive immunity. In our previous study, we showed promising <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in ovo</em> anti-tumour efficacies of a quinoline-modified heptamethine cyanine (QuCy7) encapsulated with polyethylene glycol (PEG), forming QuCy7@mPEG NPs. This study evaluated its anti-tumour efficacy and immunomodulatory effects in a syngeneic breast cancer mouse model. QuCy7@mPEG NPs induced stronger hyperthermic effect (~45 °C) compared to QuCy7 alone (~40 °C), significantly delayed tumour growth (84.9%) and achieved 50% tumour elimination. Cytokine analysis showed elevated levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-17A, along with reduced TGF-β expression. Post-treatment, increased infiltration of neutrophils, IL-6-producing M1-like macrophages, T-helper 1, and cytotoxic T cells was observed. Notably, QuCy7@mPEG NPs enhanced long-term tumour-specific immunity, evidenced by rapid CD4<sup>+</sup> effector memory T cells activation upon tumour re-challenge. These findings highlight the potential of QuCy7@mPEG NPs as an immune-stimulatory photothermal agent for cancer treatment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19050,"journal":{"name":"Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine","volume":"72 ","pages":"Article 102906"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146046869","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2026.102904
Taha Alqahtani , Hanan M. Alharbi , Stalin Arulsamy , Swati Mayur Keny , Malarkodi Velraj , Kumarappan Chidambaram , Panneerselvam Theivendren
The aim of this paper was to construct a stable drug delivery mechanism of Narcissin, which is phytoconstituent of Aerva lanata that has Reverse Transcriptase potential of anti-breast cancer. The Rand Forest Classifier was the most successful machine learning algorithm with an accuracy of 86.43 and independent test set validation of 80.85. High binding affinity to Narcissin (−13.3 kcal/mol) with five hydrogen bonds and positive hydrophobic interactions were observed in molecular docking. Simulations of Narcissin-Reverse Transcriptase complex using molecular dynamics revealed that it did not exhibit significant changes in RMSD, which meant that the complex was stable. MMGBSA analysis has displayed a good binding free energy of −51.12 kcal/mol with the van der Waals forces playing a major role (−62.2 kcal/mol). The Narcissin loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) had the highest encapsulation efficiency (90.12%), mean particle size of 80 nm, and zeta potential of −20 mV. In vitro release experiments revealed a zero-order, diffusion-controlled release, which was controlled and the cumulative release at pH 7.4 was 93.24%. The MTT assay exhibited dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity particularly at 100 μg/mL indicating that Narcissin has a potential to be used as a bioactive agent in the treatment of breast cancer in SLN-based formulations.
{"title":"Computational prediction and SLN formulation of Narcissin for reverse transcriptase inhibition and controlled drug delivery applications","authors":"Taha Alqahtani , Hanan M. Alharbi , Stalin Arulsamy , Swati Mayur Keny , Malarkodi Velraj , Kumarappan Chidambaram , Panneerselvam Theivendren","doi":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102904","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102904","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The aim of this paper was to construct a stable drug delivery mechanism of Narcissin, which is phytoconstituent of <em>Aerva lanata</em> that has Reverse Transcriptase potential of anti-breast cancer. The Rand Forest Classifier was the most successful machine learning algorithm with an accuracy of 86.43 and independent test set validation of 80.85. High binding affinity to Narcissin (−13.3 kcal/mol) with five hydrogen bonds and positive hydrophobic interactions were observed in molecular docking. Simulations of Narcissin-Reverse Transcriptase complex using molecular dynamics revealed that it did not exhibit significant changes in RMSD, which meant that the complex was stable. MMGBSA analysis has displayed a good binding free energy of −51.12 kcal/mol with the van der Waals forces playing a major role (−62.2 kcal/mol). The Narcissin loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) had the highest encapsulation efficiency (90.12%), mean particle size of 80 nm, and zeta potential of −20 mV. In vitro release experiments revealed a zero-order, diffusion-controlled release, which was controlled and the cumulative release at pH 7.4 was 93.24%. The MTT assay exhibited dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity particularly at 100 μg/mL indicating that Narcissin has a potential to be used as a bioactive agent in the treatment of breast cancer in SLN-based formulations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19050,"journal":{"name":"Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine","volume":"72 ","pages":"Article 102904"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146046888","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-22DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2026.102905
Elaheh Esmaeili, Iman Rad
Background: Regenerative dermatology has advanced from basic wound care to therapies targeting skin repair biology, with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), exosomes, and cell-based treatments as key innovations.
Objective: This review synthesizes evidence on the mechanisms, efficacy, safety, and challenges of these interventions for skin repair and rejuvenation, highlighting integrative strategies.
Methods: A comprehensive literature review of preclinical and clinical studies was conducted, focusing on therapeutic mechanisms and translational barriers.
Results: PRP delivers growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, EGF) to promote angiogenesis and tissue remodeling. Exosomes transfer microRNAs and proteins to modulate oxidative stress and collagen homeostasis. Cell-based therapies enable structural restoration, including gene-corrected grafts. All show favorable safety, but barriers exist: PRP lacks standardization, exosomes face manufacturing challenges, and cell-based therapies encounter high costs and regulatory hurdles.
Conclusion: These modalities represent a shift toward biological restoration. Their integration, guided by robust trials and scalable manufacturing, will define regenerative dermatology's future.
{"title":"From platelets to paracrine signals: A review of PRP, exosomes, and cell-based interventions for skin repair and rejuvenation.","authors":"Elaheh Esmaeili, Iman Rad","doi":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102905","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102905","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Regenerative dermatology has advanced from basic wound care to therapies targeting skin repair biology, with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), exosomes, and cell-based treatments as key innovations.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>This review synthesizes evidence on the mechanisms, efficacy, safety, and challenges of these interventions for skin repair and rejuvenation, highlighting integrative strategies.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A comprehensive literature review of preclinical and clinical studies was conducted, focusing on therapeutic mechanisms and translational barriers.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>PRP delivers growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, EGF) to promote angiogenesis and tissue remodeling. Exosomes transfer microRNAs and proteins to modulate oxidative stress and collagen homeostasis. Cell-based therapies enable structural restoration, including gene-corrected grafts. All show favorable safety, but barriers exist: PRP lacks standardization, exosomes face manufacturing challenges, and cell-based therapies encounter high costs and regulatory hurdles.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>These modalities represent a shift toward biological restoration. Their integration, guided by robust trials and scalable manufacturing, will define regenerative dermatology's future.</p>","PeriodicalId":19050,"journal":{"name":"Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine","volume":" ","pages":"102905"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146043766","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hypoxia is a hallmark of solid tumors that reduces chemotherapy efficacy and enhances systemic toxicity. This study evaluated hypoxia-sensitive polymersomes as a delivery system for doxorubicin (DOX) to improve antitumor efficacy and reduce side effects. Methods: Polymersomes were synthesized, loaded with DOX, and tested on cancer and healthy cells under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, apoptosis induction, and potential mechanism of degradation were assessed. In vivo efficacy was investigated in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice treated intravenously with free DOX or DOX-loaded hypoxia-sensitive polymersomes (three times 5 mg/kg). Tumor volume, body weight, histology, and immunochemistry were analyzed. In vitro, both free DOX and DOX-loaded polymersomes induced significant cytotoxicity and apoptosis. The effect was enhanced under hypoxia, consistent with elevated NQO1 expression. In vivo, both formulations suppressed tumor growth to a comparable degree; however, polymersome-treated mice exhibited markedly reduced weight loss, indicating lowered systemic toxicity. Histological examination showed extensive necrosis and architectural disruption in tumors from both treatment groups. Hypoxia-sensitive polymersomes effectively deliver doxorubicin to hypoxic regions, achieving tumor growth inhibition comparable to that of the free drug while reducing treatment-associated toxicity. These findings support encapsulated DOX as a promising strategy for safer chemotherapy in hypoxic cancers.
{"title":"Minimizing systemic toxicity of doxorubicin via targeted delivery of hypoxia-sensitive polymersomes","authors":"Joanna Ciepła , Katarzyna Jelonek , Monika Musiał-Kulik , Joanna Jaworska , Justyna Czapla , Alina Drzyzga , Tomasz Cichoń , Sybilla Matuszczak , Ewelina Pilny , Magdalena Jarosz-Biej , Ryszard Smolarczyk","doi":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102902","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102902","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Hypoxia is a hallmark of solid tumors that reduces chemotherapy efficacy and enhances systemic toxicity. This study evaluated hypoxia-sensitive polymersomes as a delivery system for doxorubicin (DOX) to improve antitumor efficacy and reduce side effects. Methods: Polymersomes were synthesized, loaded with DOX, and tested on cancer and healthy cells under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, apoptosis induction, and potential mechanism of degradation were assessed. <em>In vivo</em> efficacy was investigated in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice treated intravenously with free DOX or DOX-loaded hypoxia-sensitive polymersomes (three times 5 mg/kg). Tumor volume, body weight, histology, and immunochemistry were analyzed. <em>In vitro</em>, both free DOX and DOX-loaded polymersomes induced significant cytotoxicity and apoptosis. The effect was enhanced under hypoxia, consistent with elevated NQO1 expression. <em>In vivo</em>, both formulations suppressed tumor growth to a comparable degree; however, polymersome-treated mice exhibited markedly reduced weight loss, indicating lowered systemic toxicity. Histological examination showed extensive necrosis and architectural disruption in tumors from both treatment groups. Hypoxia-sensitive polymersomes effectively deliver doxorubicin to hypoxic regions, achieving tumor growth inhibition comparable to that of the free drug while reducing treatment-associated toxicity. These findings support encapsulated DOX as a promising strategy for safer chemotherapy in hypoxic cancers.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19050,"journal":{"name":"Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine","volume":"72 ","pages":"Article 102902"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146030410","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Cancer continues to pose a significant global health issue, highlighting the demand for novel and targeted treatment options. This research explores the anticancer capabilities of folic acid conjugated liposomal nanoformulation of Amphiroa anceps, a marine red alga to improve tumour specificity. In vitro tests revealed that the incorporation of folic acid substantially enhanced the effectiveness of tumour targeting, while biocompatibility assessments confirmed greater specificity for cancer cells compared to the extract without conjugation. In vivo studies showed that the formulation was safe at doses under 100 μg/mL. Furthermore, the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay indicated the presence of anti-angiogenic properties, which were further amplified through folic acid conjugation, implying a potential role in obstructing the development of tumour vasculature. These results underscore the promise of A. anceps as a natural anticancer agent and highlight the benefits of folic acid-based targeting in enhancing therapeutic effectiveness.
{"title":"Harnessing the anticancer potential of Amphiroa anceps: Folic acid-based liposomal nanocarriers for cancer cell killing in vitro","authors":"Gopalarethinam Janani , Agnishwar Girigoswami , Balasubramanian Deepika , Saranya Udayakumar , Devadass Jessy Mercy , Koyeli Girigoswami","doi":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102901","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102901","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Cancer continues to pose a significant global health issue, highlighting the demand for novel and targeted treatment options. This research explores the anticancer capabilities of folic acid conjugated liposomal nanoformulation of <em>Amphiroa ancep</em>s, a marine red alga to improve tumour specificity. <em>In vitro</em> tests revealed that the incorporation of folic acid substantially enhanced the effectiveness of tumour targeting, while biocompatibility assessments confirmed greater specificity for cancer cells compared to the extract without conjugation. <em>In vivo</em> studies showed that the formulation was safe at doses under 100 μg/mL. Furthermore, the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay indicated the presence of anti-angiogenic properties, which were further amplified through folic acid conjugation, implying a potential role in obstructing the development of tumour vasculature. These results underscore the promise of <em>A. anceps</em> as a natural anticancer agent and highlight the benefits of folic acid-based targeting in enhancing therapeutic effectiveness.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19050,"journal":{"name":"Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine","volume":"72 ","pages":"Article 102901"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146018622","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-19DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2026.102903
Zakieh Keshavarzi , Sonia Fathi-karkan , Ali Siahposht- Khachaki , Reza Kheirandish , Mohammad Hadi Nematollahi , Mohammad Amin Rajizadeh
Background
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that causes damage to the mucosa and oxidative stress. Natural substances, such as ginger extract, are known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, the clinical effectiveness of active ingredients like ginger extract is limited by their low bioavailability. Liposomal drug delivery systems, especially those modified with D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS), may enhance the stability and absorption of ginger, making it more effective as a medicinal agent. Since regular ginger extract doesn't work very well as a treatment, it's essential to develop and test new drug delivery systems, such as TPGS-modified liposomes, to enhance the outcomes of UC treatment.
Methods
A total of 54 male rats were utilized, randomly allocated into nine groups (number in each group = 6). Colitis was induced in rats through enemas containing a 4% solution of acetic acid. Four days post-induction of colitis, rats were administered simple, liposomal, and TPGS-modified liposomal forms of 100 and 300 mg/kg of alcoholic ginger extract intraperitoneally for five days.
Results
The results of this study showed that administration of liposomal forms of ginger extract reduced TNFα (P < 0.001) and IL6 (P < 0.001) levels in the colon tissue of rats. These compounds also increased SOD and catalase activity in the colon tissue and reduced NO levels. At the histological level, liposomal forms of ginger were also able to reduce tissue inflammation. Also, our results showed that the encapsulation efficiency of ginger extract was 73 ± 0.38%.
Conclusion
Overall, this research showed that following UC, the colon inflammation and oxidative stress were higher than the healthy animals. Also, the results of this study showed that administration of the liposomal and TPGS-modified liposome was able to exert strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects compared to simple forms.
{"title":"The effects of TPGS-modified liposomal ginger extract in the treatment of acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats","authors":"Zakieh Keshavarzi , Sonia Fathi-karkan , Ali Siahposht- Khachaki , Reza Kheirandish , Mohammad Hadi Nematollahi , Mohammad Amin Rajizadeh","doi":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102903","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.nano.2026.102903","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a long-term inflammatory bowel disease that causes damage to the mucosa and oxidative stress. Natural substances, such as ginger extract, are known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, the clinical effectiveness of active ingredients like ginger extract is limited by their low bioavailability. Liposomal drug delivery systems, especially those modified with D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS), may enhance the stability and absorption of ginger, making it more effective as a medicinal agent. Since regular ginger extract doesn't work very well as a treatment, it's essential to develop and test new drug delivery systems, such as TPGS-modified liposomes, to enhance the outcomes of UC treatment.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A total of 54 male rats were utilized, randomly allocated into nine groups (number in each group = 6). Colitis was induced in rats through enemas containing a 4% solution of acetic acid. Four days post-induction of colitis, rats were administered simple, liposomal, and TPGS-modified liposomal forms of 100 and 300 mg/kg of alcoholic ginger extract intraperitoneally for five days.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The results of this study showed that administration of liposomal forms of ginger extract reduced TNFα (<em>P</em> < 0.001) and IL6 (<em>P</em> < 0.001) levels in the colon tissue of rats. These compounds also increased SOD and catalase activity in the colon tissue and reduced NO levels. At the histological level, liposomal forms of ginger were also able to reduce tissue inflammation. Also, our results showed that the encapsulation efficiency of ginger extract was 73 ± 0.38%.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Overall, this research showed that following UC, the colon inflammation and oxidative stress were higher than the healthy animals. Also, the results of this study showed that administration of the liposomal and TPGS-modified liposome was able to exert strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects compared to simple forms.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19050,"journal":{"name":"Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine","volume":"72 ","pages":"Article 102903"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146018686","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-06DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2025.102898
Sedigheh Abedanzadeh, Babak Karimi, Omid Pourshiani, Samira Sadat Abolmaali, Jun Hong, Ali A Moosavi-Movahedi
This research aimed to improve the bioavailability and anticancer efficacy of curcumin by leveraging the unique properties of bifunctional periodic mesoporous organosilica (BFPMO). The imidazolium and benzene organic moieties embedded in the pore walls of BFPMO, play dual supporting and stabilizing functions for curcumin without causing pore blockage, thereby facilitating high drug loading content (60 %) and excellent encapsulation efficiency (88 %). Comprehensive structural analyses (N₂ adsorption-desorption, FT-IR, TGA, HRTEM, FESEM, EDAX) confirmed successful curcumin immobilization. BFPMO demonstrated good hemocompatibility, and DPPH assays showed improved curcumin stability after encapsulation. In vitro release studies revealed a strong pH-responsive profile. CUR@BFPMO significantly reduced the viability of HEPG2 and A2780 cancer cells while exhibiting lower toxicity toward NIH-3T3 normal cells. Flow cytometry and fluorescence imaging indicated time-dependent apoptosis induction. These findings highlight the potential of BFPMO as a smart, biocompatible nanocarrier for curcumin delivery, offering improved bioavailability, pH-responsive release, and enhanced anticancer efficacy.
{"title":"Enhancing curcumin bioavailability using bifunctional periodic mesoporous organosilica for pH-responsive anticancer drug delivery.","authors":"Sedigheh Abedanzadeh, Babak Karimi, Omid Pourshiani, Samira Sadat Abolmaali, Jun Hong, Ali A Moosavi-Movahedi","doi":"10.1016/j.nano.2025.102898","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.nano.2025.102898","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This research aimed to improve the bioavailability and anticancer efficacy of curcumin by leveraging the unique properties of bifunctional periodic mesoporous organosilica (BFPMO). The imidazolium and benzene organic moieties embedded in the pore walls of BFPMO, play dual supporting and stabilizing functions for curcumin without causing pore blockage, thereby facilitating high drug loading content (60 %) and excellent encapsulation efficiency (88 %). Comprehensive structural analyses (N₂ adsorption-desorption, FT-IR, TGA, HRTEM, FESEM, EDAX) confirmed successful curcumin immobilization. BFPMO demonstrated good hemocompatibility, and DPPH assays showed improved curcumin stability after encapsulation. In vitro release studies revealed a strong pH-responsive profile. CUR@BFPMO significantly reduced the viability of HEPG2 and A2780 cancer cells while exhibiting lower toxicity toward NIH-3T3 normal cells. Flow cytometry and fluorescence imaging indicated time-dependent apoptosis induction. These findings highlight the potential of BFPMO as a smart, biocompatible nanocarrier for curcumin delivery, offering improved bioavailability, pH-responsive release, and enhanced anticancer efficacy.</p>","PeriodicalId":19050,"journal":{"name":"Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine","volume":" ","pages":"102898"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145934555","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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