Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Sijin Chen, Shuting Huang, Yan Li, Chuncai Zhou
Summary: This review summarized the advanced development in the synthesis and modification strategies of ε-poly-L-lysine (EPL) and lysine-based dendrimer (LBD) compounds, focusing on their applications in biomedical fields such as agents, adjuvants, and carriers for anti-pathogen, tumor, and gene therapies. The combination with other advanced methodologies and technologies shows potential for overcoming challenges like scale production and high expenses in the future development of lysine-based polymers.
FRONTIERS IN CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Smiljana Stefanovic, Katie McCormick, Sarinj Fattah, Ruiari Brannigan, Sally-Ann Cryan, Andreas Heise
Summary: A new synthetic route was developed to prepare star-shaped poly(l-lysine) from bis-MPA dendrimers. The resulting star polypeptides showed excellent degradability and were able to form polyplexes with nucleic acids for gene delivery.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Cameron W. Evans, Diwei Ho, Joshua B. Marlow, Jessica J. King, Charmaine Hee, Lucas N. Wong, Rob Atkin, Nicole M. Smith, Gregory G. Warr, Marck Norret, K. Swaminathan Iyer
Summary: Non-viral delivery is an important strategy for gene therapy, immunization, and RNA interference, but the efficiency of current non-viral carriers is limited. Researchers have developed dendronized bottlebrush polymers with controlled defects, showing that synthetic macromolecular complexes can communicate intracellularly. This challenges the assumption that delivery agents act as bystanders and improves the design of non-viral delivery agents for genome engineering, vaccines, and nucleic acid-based therapies.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2022)
Article
Physics, Fluids & Plasmas
Saad Yalouz, Vincent Pouthier
Summary: This study investigates the energy absorption of photoexcitation at the core of a star network, which is distributed uniformly at the periphery. The existence of an optimal value of energy defect is revealed, which depends on the network architecture. When certain conditions are met, the absorption process can be accelerated. The findings of this study may serve as a potential guide for the design of efficient molecular nanonetworks for photoexcitation absorption.
Article
Polymer Science
Claire M. Barratt, Tejaswini K. Haraniya, Sofie J. Iwamasa, Justin J. Yun, Victor G. Desyatkin, Kathryn G. Wilcox, Svetlana A. Morozova, Valentin O. Rodionov
Summary: A general methodology for synthesizing star polymers with a large number of polypeptide arms is presented. The synthesis involves the arm-first step-growth polymerization of bifunctional macromonomers using copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition. Star polymers with up to 18 poly-gamma-benzyl-L-glutamate (PBLG) arms have been successfully synthesized and characterized. The secondary structure of PBLG is found to be greatly influenced by the degree of chain packing/crowding.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Ali Alazzo, Nurcan Gumus, Pratik Gurnani, Snjezana Stolnik, Ruman Rahman, Keith Spriggs, Cameron Alexander
Summary: Higher molar mass derivatives of poly(lysine) were found to yield smaller polyplexes with greater affinity for siRNA and higher transfection efficiency, although they may come with some cytotoxicity. Histidinylation improved biocompatibility slightly, but did not significantly enhance gene silencing efficiency compared to non-histidinylated derivatives.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY B
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Tathagata Mondal, Maria Nerantzaki, Kevin Flesch, Capucine Loth, Mounir Maaloum, Yidan Cong, Sergei S. Sheiko, Jean-Francois Lutz
Summary: The DNA-guided assembly of biohybrid sequence-defined poly(phosphodiester)s was investigated, resulting in the synthesis of linear or star-like superstructures. Characterization through electrophoresis, UV spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy confirmed the formation of the expected supramolecules, despite some defects. This approach offers interesting avenues for designing 2D and 3D constructs based on informational poly(phosphodiester)s.
Article
Polymer Science
Emi Haladjova, Silvia Panseri, Monica Montesi, Arianna Rossi, Athanasios Skandalis, Stergios Pispas, Stanislav Rangelov
Summary: The study investigates the interactions of two star polymers with different types of nucleic acids. The polymers differ in their functionality, while DNAs of different molar masses, lengths and topologies are used. The main physicochemical parameters of the resulting polyplexes are determined. The study reveals the influence of the polymer functionality and DNA characteristics on the structure and properties of the polyelectrolyte complexes. The cytotoxic evaluation and transfection experiments show that the polymers exhibit good biocompatibility and efficient DNA transfer.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Li Ye, Hongmei Liu, Xin Fei, Ding Ma, Xiaozhen He, Qianyun Tang, Xue Zhao, Hanbing Zou, Xiaojing Chen, Xianming Kong, Peifeng Liu
Summary: A surface modification strategy was used to enhance the endosomal escape ability of dendrimer DGL polymers, improving gene transfection efficiency. This strategy involved designing a library of PBA-modified DGL polymers to screen for efficient siRNA vectors, with one candidate showing nearly 90% gene silencing in cells. Furthermore, the PBA modification not only improved siRNA cellular uptake but also endowed DGL polymers with the ability to escape endosomes.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Shaigan Naidoo, Aliscia Daniels, Saffiya Habib, Moganavelli Singh
Summary: This study designed and characterized functionalized selenium nanoparticles that efficiently bind, protect, and deliver DNA to liver cancer cells, exhibiting favorable features as gene nanocarriers for liver cancer treatment.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Devesh Maurya, Rahul Nisal, Ruma Ghosh, Parshuram Kambale, Mehak Malhotra, Manickam Jayakannan
Summary: The development of self-reporting polymers with membrane disruption and visualization is crucial for early detection and treatment. In this study, coumarin fluorophore-tagged polypeptides based on PEG-block-poly(L-lysine) copolymers were synthesized. These polymers exhibited antimicrobial activity against E. coli with MIC90 values ranging from 1 x 10(-4) to 3 x 10(-4) g/mL. Confocal microscopic imaging revealed the mechanism of membrane pore formation, and the polypeptides showed high biocompatibility.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Piotr Polanowski, Krzysztof Halagan, Andrzej Sikorski
Summary: A generic model for studying the polymerization process of branched macromolecules was developed and Monte Carlo simulations were used to investigate the process. The synthesis kinetics, size, and structure of star-branched polymers and dendrimers were studied, as well as the influence of well-defined cores on the system's structure and dispersity.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Alina Kirillova, Taylor R. Yeazel, Ken Gall, Matthew L. Becker
Summary: Poly(propylene fumarate) star polymers photochemically 3D printed with degradable thiol cross-linkers yield highly tunable biodegradable polymeric materials, suitable for regenerative medicine applications.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Shusu Ren, Xiang Xu, Jiyuan Sun, Haitao Zhao, Weiwei He, Lifen Zhang, Zhenping Cheng
Summary: This study synthesized a series of cationic porphyrin-based star-shaped copolymers using photo-controlled bromine-iodine transformation reversible-deactivation radical polymerization. The effects of alkyl chain length, degree of polymerization, and hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance on the antibacterial activity of the polymers were investigated. The resulting copolymer Zn@P6 showed excellent photodynamic inhibition activity against both S. aureus and E. coli, with low cytotoxicity and promising biological application prospects.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Anita Romanowska, Katarzyna Wegrzyn, Katarzyna Bury, Emilia Sikorska, Aleksandra Gnatek, Agnieszka Piwkowska, Igor Konieczny, Adam Lesner, Magdalena Wysocka
Summary: Novel polycationic polymers composed of N-substituted L-2,3-diaminopropionic acid residues were synthesized and their cell permeability, cytotoxicity, and DNA-binding ability were investigated in this study. The compounds showed efficient cell membrane penetration, dsDNA binding, and minimal cytotoxicity. The interaction with plasmid DNA and the length of the main chain of the compounds influenced the formation of unique nanostructures.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xiang Zhou, Xiuhong Huang, Bincheng Wang, Lihui Tan, Yi Zhang, Yanpeng Jiao
Summary: The study presented a novel micromotor system that utilized NIR light and gas propulsion to overcome multiple biological barriers in tumor treatment, achieving precise active drug delivery.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Biophysics
Xiang Wang, Xin Yan, Bin-cheng Wang, Wei Xue, Chang-ren Zhou, Yi Zhang, Zong-hua Liu
Summary: This study introduces a novel blood lead adsorbent that allows for selective adsorption with real-time monitoring, possessing the ability to resist blood components and be used for treatment and monitoring of lead poisoning.
BIOSENSORS & BIOELECTRONICS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Zhi Zeng, Han-bo Feng, Meng-en Hao, Yi Zhang
Summary: A transdermal delivery system for colchicine using a one-pot approach in a microemulsion was proposed in this study, which achieved in situ encapsulation of colchicine during nano-hydroxyapatite formation. The optimal formulation showed high transdermal flux, enhanced drug loading efficiency, and tunable sustained-release behavior, combining the advantages of microemulsion and nano-Hap for controlled drug release. This composite system holds promise as a vehicle for transdermal delivery of colchicine to produce desirable pharmacological effects.
COMPOSITES COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Hua Zhang, Haijie Zhao, Yan Huang, Guodong Sun, Yi Zhang
Summary: Researchers have incorporated mTOR signaling inhibitor rapamycin into a shell-core theranostic nanoplatform to enhance the synergistic effect of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. This nano-platform, with responsive properties regulated by intracellular processes, demonstrates improved blood compatibility, effective tumor accumulation and microenvironment-selective endocytosis.
APPLIED MATERIALS TODAY
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Xiuhong Huang, Licheng Lin, Xing Yang, Zhentao Li, Yi Wan, Lihua Li, Yanpeng Jiao, Yi Zhang, Changren Zhou
Summary: This study proposes a method using a complex of chitooligosaccharides and europium ions to monitor wound healing, modulate inflammation, and promote vascularization in pressure ulcer injuries. The complex not only monitors wound healing through fluorescence changes, but also demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity and promotes vascularization. The simple construction enables visual monitoring and multi-stage adaptive wound repair.
APPLIED MATERIALS TODAY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Anning Chen, Dongxiu Chen, Kai Lv, Guowei Li, Jing Pan, Dong Ma, Jie Tang, Hongzheng Zhang
Summary: Since the first surgery 50 years ago, cochlear implantation has been the major treatment for severe sensorineural hearing loss. However, foreign body reactions after surgery often lead to fibrosis and residual hearing loss. A zwitterionic coating composed of poly sulfobetaine methacrylate (PSB) and polydopamine (PDA) is developed to inhibit fibrosis and improve the outcomes of cochlear implants.
ADVANCED HEALTHCARE MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Guowei Li, Kai Lv, Xiangjun Pan, Siting Zhou, Hui Xing, Jun Xu, Dong Ma, Yunfeng Hu, Hao Xu
Summary: In this study, a dynamic delivery system Clo@mPRP/NONOate was developed, which effectively attached to fungal biofilms through electrostatic interaction and enhanced the permeability of nanoparticles to the biofilms by introducing polyrotaxane. This system could inhibit the formation of fungal hyphae and eradicate fungi inside the biofilms by combining nitric oxide and clotrimazole. Additionally, it could safely and effectively eliminate planktonic Candida albicans and treat C. albicans-induced vaginal infection.
ACTA BIOMATERIALIA
(2023)
Article
Biophysics
Xin Liu, Fan Wang, Li Liu, Tiantian Li, Xiangyu Zhong, Hongsheng Lin, Yi Zhang, Wei Xue
Summary: In this study, a nano-spray assisted photothermal imaging system was developed for in vitro cell discrimination and in vivo visualization of tumor position and border in real-time during surgery. Compared to conventional imaging techniques, this approach has the advantages of low cost, convenience, no radiation hazard, and avoiding the adverse effects risk of oral or intravenous contrast agent.
BIOSENSORS & BIOELECTRONICS
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Shuo Liu, Xiaozhen Zhan, Zhenni Lin, Zonghua Liu, Jie Yang, Yi Zhang
Summary: In this study, bacteria-like tumor vaccines with cascade reaction properties were designed to target all key steps of the immune response. The vaccines demonstrated promising anti-tumor effectiveness by effectively loading the antigen, activating and entering antigen presenting cells, escaping the lysosomes, and inducing a potent and continuous anti-tumor cellular immune response.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Kai Lv, Guowei Li, Xiangjun Pan, Luxuan Liu, Ziheng Chen, Yu Zhang, Hao Xu, Dong Ma
Summary: A smart antibacterial nanoplatform was developed for efficient treatment of bacteria infection using near-infrared light-controlled release and bacteria-targeted delivery of nitric oxide combined with photothermal therapy. The platform can accurately distinguish bacterial infection and efficiently deliver drugs to the infected sites. By utilizing the photothermal effect and the unique transport system of bacteria, it effectively eliminates biofilm and drug-resistant bacteria. In a myositis model of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection, the nanoplatform successfully eradicated inflammation and abscesses.
ADVANCED HEALTHCARE MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Guowei Li, Kai Lv, Qikun Cheng, Hui Xing, Wei Xue, Wu Zhang, Qianming Lin, Dong Ma
Summary: A topological supramolecular nanocarrier that releases NO is reported to greatly improve antibacterial performance by providing conformational freedom for interactions between the carrier and pathogenic microbes. The NO-loaded topological nanocarrier achieves excellent antibacterial and anti-biofilm effects through destroying the bacterial membrane and DNA. The nanocarrier also demonstrates wound-healing effects in an MRSA-infected rat model with negligible toxicity. Introducing flexible molecular motions into therapeutic polymeric systems is a general design approach to enhance the healing of various diseases.
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Qikun Cheng, Mingzhi Xie, Guowei Li, Wei Xue, Lexiang Zeng, Dong Ma
Summary: This study reported a new strategy of directly decreasing alcohol absorption by utilizing bacteria in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The researchers constructed a bacteria-loaded gastro-retention oral delivery system with a pore structure, which successfully relieved acute alcohol intoxication in mice. The system displayed good protection for the bacteria, decreased alcohol concentration, and reduced alcohol absorption in vitro and in vivo experiments, suggesting its potential in the treatment of alcohol abuse.
ACS BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Qikun Cheng, Mingzhi Xie, Guowei Li, Wei Xue, Lexiang Zeng, Dong Ma
Summary: This study reported a new strategy to decrease alcohol absorption by using bacteria in the upper gastrointestinal tract, which could relieve acute alcohol intoxication. A bacteria-loaded gastro-retention oral delivery system was constructed, which maintained a suspension ratio of over 30% in simulated gastric fluid for 4 minutes and decreased the alcohol concentration in vitro. In vivo imaging results showed that the system remained in the upper GI tract for 24 hours and reduced alcohol absorption by 41.9%. Mice administered with the system showed normal gait, smooth coat, and less liver damage. The study concluded that the bacteria-loaded gastro-retention oral delivery system has the potential in the treatment of alcohol abuse.
ACS BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Wei Wang, Jiexuan Cai, Nai-Kei Wong, Meijing Hong, Jianbin Deng, Long Jin, Yang Ran, Yi Zhang, Yaqi Zhou, Bai-Ou Guan
Summary: In this study, two fluorescent probes were successfully synthesized for the detection of NTR activity in cell and in vivo models. One probe showed high selectivity for NTR, strong fluorescence enhancement, and low detection limit in the presence of NADH. The other tumor-targeting probe efficiently detected NTR activity in cancer cells. The liposome-encapsulated probe was successfully applied to visualize NTR during liver inflammation in mice.
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Shixin Liu, Guowei Li, Dong Ma
Summary: This review summarizes recent developments in designing controllable NO-delivering platforms for treating various diseases, with a focus on commonly used NO donors. The therapeutic mechanisms of NO in the diseases and corresponding means of controlling NO release are summarized. The prospects and potential challenges regarding the development of NO gas therapy are also described.
ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS
(2022)
