Review
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Yan Yang, Xi Zheng, Lu Chen, Xuefeng Gong, Hao Yang, Xingmei Duan, Yuxuan Zhu
Summary: Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world and poses a serious threat to human health. Nanomedicine, particularly gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), has emerged as a promising technology for overcoming the limitations of conventional cancer therapies. This review discusses the current achievements and clinical trials of AuNPs in anticancer applications, as well as the challenges in translating basic findings into the clinic, providing a reference for future research.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NANOMEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Xing-Qun Pu, Xiao-Jie Ju, Lei Zhang, Quan-Wei Cai, Yu-Qiong Liu, Han-Yu Peng, Rui Xie, Wei Wang, Zhuang Liu, Liang-Yin Chu
Summary: A novel class of multifunctional responsive nanoparticles was designed and fabricated as drug nanocarriers for synergetic chemo-photothermal therapy of tumors. These nanoparticles demonstrated good biocompatibility and outstanding photothermal conversion efficiency, with controlled drug release under low pH and high temperature conditions. Experimental results showed that the nanoparticles were phagocytosed by tumor cells and released drugs in acidic environments, with higher efficacy in combined chemo and photothermal therapy compared to individual treatments.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2021)
Article
Biophysics
Wenge Zhang, Jiangyong Li, Lamei Chen, Huan Chen, Liangke Zhang
Summary: This study demonstrates the combined treatment of tumors using PdH@CaCO3 nanoparticles, which can achieve therapeutic effects through chemodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and calcium overload therapy.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES B-BIOINTERFACES
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Nian Liu, Patrick O'Connor, Vipul Gujrati, Pia Anzenhofer, Uwe Klemm, Karin Kleigrewe, Michael Sattler, Oliver Plettenburg, Vasilis Ntziachristos
Summary: This study introduces CR880-based nanoparticles for deep tissue optoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy. These nanoparticles exhibit high optoacoustic generation efficiency and photostability, and can be visualized in tumors with high image contrast. Moreover, they have high photothermal conversion efficiency for effective tumor elimination.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Nandan Gupta, Rishabha Malviya
Summary: The use of gold nanoparticles in photothermal therapy for cancer treatment is highlighted in this communication, showing their potential in warning cancer cells to other therapies, modulating cellular permeability and delivery, and achieving effective therapy management.
BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-REVIEWS ON CANCER
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Yamin Zhang, Biling Jiang, Chen Guo, Liping Liu, Jian Xu, Yujue Wang, Chen Shen, Jinjin Zhu, Guanxin Shen, Hao Jiang, Jintao Zhu, Juan Tao
Summary: This study presents a multifunctional nanocomposite that integrates different therapies for efficient antitumor effects in melanoma models, showcasing successful inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis through photothermal conversion and photodynamic action.
BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Alla B. Bucharskaya, Nikolai G. Khlebtsov, Boris N. Khlebtsov, Galina N. Maslyakova, Nikita A. Navolokin, Vadim D. Genin, Elina A. Genina, Valery V. Tuchin
Summary: This article discusses the current challenges and prospects of plasmonic nanomedicine based on plasmonic photothermal therapy (PPT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT). It reviews the synthesis methods and applications of popular plasmonic nanoparticles and examines their interaction with tumor and healthy tissues. The unresolved issues of PPT and potential solutions are also discussed.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sorina Suarasan, Andreea Campu, Adriana Vulpoi, Manuela Banciu, Simion Astilean
Summary: This study evaluated the absorption properties of three different gold nanotriangular nanoparticles as photothermal agents and selected the most efficient one. It was found that gold nanoparticles which resonated with the 785 nm laser line showed the highest photothermal conversion efficacy and phototoxic effects, demonstrating their potential as a cancer treatment option.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Dongya Liu, Lingyan Liu, Feiyang Liu, Mengfan Zhang, Peng Wei, Tao Yi
Summary: This study presents a tumor microenvironment-responsive nanodrug strategy based on reactive oxygen species (ROS) activation for imaging-guided precision therapy of tumors. The nanoplatform constructed from gold nanoparticles coated with an HOCl probe can adjust size in the tumor environment and inhibit tumor growth through combined photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT).
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Minchuan Luo, Hiroshi Yukawa, Kazuhide Sato, Makoto Tozawa, Masato Tokunaga, Tatsuya Kameyama, Tsukasa Torimoto, Yoshinobu Baba
Summary: This study presents a multifunctional nanoprobe for bimodal imaging and photothermal-enhanced targeted therapy. The nanoprobe exhibits intense fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging capabilities for sensitive and high-resolution imaging of tumors in living mice. Additionally, it can generate localized heat and reactive oxygen species, achieving excellent therapeutic efficacy in vivo.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jordi Ribera, Clara Vilches, Vanesa Sanz, Ignacio de Miguel, Irene Portoles, Bernat Cordoba-Jover, Esther Prat, Virginia Nunes, Wladimiro Jimenez, Romain Quidant, Manuel Morales-Ruiz
Summary: Liver fibrosis is a significant health issue with limited treatment options. Targeting hepatic stellate cells and using gold nanorods may be promising strategies for reducing fibrosis. Gold nanorods have shown potential in decreasing fibrosis, hepatic inflammation, and hepatocyte injury.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Meishen Ren, Jiaojiao Zhou, Zhiyong Song, Hong Mei, Ming Zhou, Zhen F. Fu, Heyou Han, Ling Zhao
Summary: Rabies, a lethal disease caused by a neurotropic virus, currently lacks effective clinical therapy. A photothermal therapy using aptamer conjugated RVG-Apt-PEG-Silica gold nanorods showed promising results in reducing viral load and increasing survival rate in a mouse model.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2021)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Mohamed J. Saadh, Hala Baher, Yuanji Li, Mvnl Chaitanya, Jose Luis Arias-Gonzales, Omer Qutaiba B. Allela, Mohammed H. Mahdi, Juan Carlos Cotrina-Aliaga, Natrayan Lakshmaiya, Salam Ahjel, Ali H. Amin, Gregorio Gilmer Rosales Rojas, Fuad Ameen, Muhammad Ahsan, Reza Akhavan-Sigari
Summary: Multidisciplinary approaches in cancer treatment are essential in coordinating multiple disciplines for effective tumor elimination. Nanocarriers have emerged as promising structures for the treatment of pancreatic cancer by responding to pH and redox conditions, allowing for targeted delivery of therapeutic cargo. Loading drugs onto nanoparticles helps enhance intracellular accumulation in cancer cells, slowing the progression of pancreatic cancer. Nanoparticles can also be used for gene encapsulation, protecting genes from degradation and promoting intracellular accumulation for tumor suppression. In addition, nanotechnology enables selective targeting of pancreatic cancer cells, reducing side effects on normal cells.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Maryam Hosseini, Zahed Ahmadi, Amirhosein Kefayat, Fatemeh Molaabasi, Anita Ebrahimpour, Yousef Naderi Khojasteh Far, Mehdi Khoobi
Summary: In this study, a helical structure of gold nanoparticles was engineered using Spirulina platensis as a biotemplate for the treatment and diagnosis of cancer. The biohybrid showed excellent imaging performance and tumor suppression effects, as well as biodegradability and good biocompatibility.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Wei-bo Liu, Su-he Dong, Wen-hao Hu, Meng Gao, Teng Li, Quan-bo Ji, Xiao-qing Yang, Deng-bin Qi, Zhen Zhang, Ze-Long Song, Yu-jie Liu, Xue-song Zhang
Summary: This study developed a universal template vector for bone tumor therapy, which simultaneously meets the needs of bone targeting, tumor killing, osteoclast suppression, and tumor imaging. The template consists of a polydopamine core and a multifunctional surface, enabling the delivery of chemotherapy drugs and imaging ions. The template also allows for photothermal therapy and enhanced chemotherapy, providing a more personalized treatment option for bone tumor patients.
BIOACTIVE MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Jacinta O. Pinho, Mariana Matias, Vanda Marques, Carla Eleuterio, Celia Fernandes, Lurdes Gano, Joana D. Amaral, Eduarda Mendes, Maria Jesus Perry, Jao Nuno Moreira, Gert Storm, Ana Paula Francisco, Cecilia M. P. Rodrigues, M. Manuela Gaspar
Summary: Researchers synthesized a new hybrid molecule that showed remarkable antiproliferative activity against melanoma by specifically activating tyrosinase. They also demonstrated that incorporating the molecule into long blood circulating liposomes allowed for passive targeting of tumor sites, leading to high therapeutic efficacy.
BIOMEDICINE & PHARMACOTHERAPY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Vanda Marques, Susana Ouro, Marta B. Afonso, Cecilia M. P. Rodrigues
Summary: Response to chemoradiotherapy in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer is variable. Imbalance in leptin and adiponectin might modulate stemness potential and CRT response in rectal cancer. CEA levels, STAT3 activation, and OCT4/KLF4 expression accurately identify CRT non-responders in rectal cancer patients.
JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Psychiatry
Vania Tavares, Evangelos Vassos, Andre Marquand, James Stone, Isabel Valli, Gareth J. Barker, Hugo Ferreira, Diana Prata
Summary: This study aimed to predict the transition to psychosis from an At Risk Mental State (ARMS) by using a combination of machine learning, structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI), genome-wide genotypes, and environmental risk factors as predictors. The results suggested that none of the modalities alone, namely neuroimaging, genetic data, or environmental data, could predict psychosis from an ARMS statistically better than chance, indicating the need to re-evaluate the value of sMRI data and genome-wide genotypes in predicting psychosis risk.
FRONTIERS IN PSYCHIATRY
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Marta Lavrador, Ana C. Cabral, Manuel T. Verissimo, Fernando Fernandez-Llimos, Isabel V. Figueiredo, M. Margarida Castel-Branco
Summary: This study aimed to provide a comprehensive list of drugs with documented affinity for muscarinic receptors, in order to address the gaps in anticholinergic burden tools. A literature review and database search were conducted to identify these tools and evaluate the drugs included in them. A universal list of 133 drugs with anticholinergic activity, categorized by their affinity for different subtypes of muscarinic receptors and their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, was developed. The proportion of drugs with confirmed antagonism varied among the tools, highlighting the need for further validation in different clinical settings.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Davide Gnocchi, Marta B. Afonso, Maria Maddalena Cavalluzzi, Giovanni Lentini, Giuseppe Ingravallo, Carlo Sabba, Cecilia M. P. Rodrigues, Antonio Mazzocca
Summary: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a concerning and increasingly prevalent tumor. Traditional pharmacological approaches have limitations and side effects, necessitating the development of new molecules. This study shows that LPAR6 plays a role in CDAA diet-induced HCC in mice, and XAA can counteract diet-induced effects on liver health. These findings are supported by experiments in HCC cells with altered LPAR6 function.
MOLECULAR CARCINOGENESIS
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Joana Lopes, Tania Ferreira-Goncalves, Lia Ascensao, Ana S. Viana, Lina Carvalho, Jose Catarino, Pedro Faisca, Abel Oliva, Dragana P. C. de Barros, Cecilia M. P. Rodrigues, Maria Manuela Gaspar, Catarina Pinto Reis
Summary: Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have attracted the interest of researchers due to their unique properties, and are being explored for diagnostics and therapy, particularly in cancer cell ablation. Safety is a crucial factor for medical applications, so the physicochemical properties and morphology of AuNPs coated with different materials were characterized. The safety of the developed AuNPs was evaluated in various cell lines, skin models, and biosafety assays, showing no significant toxicity.
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Nuno Cruz, Manuel Herculano-Carvalho, Diogo Roque, Claudia C. Faria, Rita Cascao, Hugo Alexandre Ferreira, Catarina Pinto Reis, Nuno Matela
Summary: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and deadly brain tumor in adults with no curative solution and a short survival time. Current standard of care involves maximal tumor resection followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Imaging techniques play a key role in diagnosis, surgery planning, and intraoperative use. Chemotherapy is hindered by the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and systemic side effects, prompting research on targeted immunotherapy and nanotechnological drug delivery systems.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Mariana Coelho, Ana Patricia Duarte, Sofia Pinto, Hugo M. Botelho, Catarina Pinto Reis, Maria Luisa Serralheiro, Rita Pacheco
Summary: In this study, extracts of the edible seaweeds Arame, Nori, and Fucus were compared to explore their health properties. The results showed that the fractionation of the extracts led to a reduction in bioactivity, indicating a loss of synergistic effects. Arame extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, while Nori showed the highest potential for acetylcholinesterase inhibition. These findings suggest a promising potential for the use of these seaweed extracts, especially Arame and Nori, in improving health and managing diseases associated with oxidative stress and neurodegeneration.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Beatriz Sequeira-Antunes, Hugo Alexandre Ferreira
Summary: Biosensing and microfluidics technologies are revolutionizing diagnostic medicine by accurately detecting biomolecules in urine samples. This review provides an overview of biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring diseases and discusses the different materials and techniques used in microfluidics and biosensing technologies. It also highlights the potential of point-of-care urinalysis devices and presents the concept of using smart toilets for specimen collection and analysis.
Article
Polymer Science
Pedro Francisco, Mariana Neves Amaral, Afonso Neves, Tania Ferreira-Goncalves, Ana S. Viana, Jose Catarino, Pedro Faisca, Sandra Simoes, Joao Perdigao, Adilia J. Charmier, M. Manuela Gaspar, Catarina Pinto Reis
Summary: This study focuses on the production and characterization of AgNPs loaded in a Pluronic((R)) F127 hydrogel, as well as assessing its antimicrobial and wound-healing potential. The results showed that hydrogel-loaded AgNPs is potentially an important resource in the treatment of skin burns due to their proven efficacy by topical administration.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Ana Iglesias-Mejuto, Beatriz Magarinos, Tania Ferreira-Goncalves, Ricardo Starbird-Perez, Carmen Alvarez-Lorenzo, Catarina Pinto Reis, Ines Ardao, Carlos A. Garcia-Gonzalez
Summary: This study developed a novel processing strategy to manufacture drug-loaded and personalized aerogels with nanostructures. The aerogels demonstrated bioactivity and antimicrobial effects, promoting bone regeneration and preventing infections in bone tissue engineering.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Andre Campanico, Shrika G. Harjivan, Elisabete Freitas, Marco Serafini, M. Manuela Gaspar, Rita Capela, Pedro Gomes, Audrey Jordaan, Ana M. Madureira, Vania Andre, Andreia B. Silva, M. Teresa Duarte, Isabel Portugal, Joao Perdigao, Rui Moreira, Digby F. Warner, Francisca Lopes
Summary: This study successfully improved the metabolic stability and solubility of N-acetyl azaaurones by replacing the N-acetyl moiety with a N-carbamoyl group. The new N-carbamoyl azaaurones exhibited potent antimycobacterial activity against drug-susceptible and drug-resistant M. tuberculosis isolates, with improved microsomal stability and kinetic solubility. These findings highlight the potential of azaaurones as antimycobacterial agents.
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Pedro M. Rodrigues, Marta B. Afonso, Andre L. Simao, Tawhidul Islam, Maria M. Gaspar, Colm J. O'Rourke, Monika Lewinska, Jesper B. Andersen, Enara Arretxe, Cristina Alonso, Alvaro Santos-Laso, Laura Izquierdo-Sanchez, Raul Jimenez-Aguero, Emma Eizaguirre, Luis Bujanda, Maria J. Pareja, Carina Prip-Buus, Jesus M. Banales, Cecilia M. P. Rodrigues, Rui E. Castro
Summary: This study evaluated the role of hsa-miRNA-21-5p in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients. The expression of hsa-miRNA-21-5p was found to increase with NAFLD severity and was associated with hepatic lipotoxicity. Inhibition of hsa-miRNA-21-5p was shown to prevent the progression of NAFLD to NASH and HCC.
LIVER INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Review
Health Care Sciences & Services
Diogo Roque, Nuno Cruz, Hugo Alexandre Ferreira, Catarina Pinto Reis, Nuno Matela, Manuel Herculano-Carvalho, Rita Cascao, Claudia C. Faria
Summary: Glioblastoma is a malignant brain tumor with limited treatment options. Nanoparticles provide a promising approach for the treatment of glioblastoma by overcoming the blood-brain barrier and reducing systemic side effects.
JOURNAL OF PERSONALIZED MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Imaging Science & Photographic Technology
Duarte Oliveira-Saraiva, Joao Mendes, Joao Leote, Filipe Andre Gonzalez, Nuno Garcia, Hugo Alexandre Ferreira, Nuno Matela
Summary: This study proposed a simplified Convolutional Neural Network Autoencoder (CNN-AE) to remove noise from breast and lung ultrasound images. The results showed that the model outperformed traditional filters in denoising. Furthermore, in the classification of malignant breast lesions, the use of the denoised images by the model reduced misclassifications. Therefore, this research is of great importance for practical clinical applications.
JOURNAL OF IMAGING
(2023)
