Journal Description
Journal of Nanotheranostics
Journal of Nanotheranostics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on nanotheranostics published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access—free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 26.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer-review and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Latest Articles
Graphene Oxide Chemical Refining Screening to Improve Blood Compatibility of Graphene-Based Nanomaterials
J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(1), 13-28; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/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.
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Nanomaterials as Nano-Theranostic Tools in Disease Treatment)
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The Role of Fullerenes in Neurodegenerative Disorders
by
Daisy L. Wilson, Jyoti Ahlawat and Mahesh Narayan
J. Nanotheranostics 2024, 5(1), 1-12; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Innovations in Theranostic Nanobiomaterials)
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Efficacy of 15 nm Gold Nanoparticles for Image-Guided Gliosarcoma Radiotherapy
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Elette Engels, Michael Lerch, Stéphanie Corde and Moeava Tehei
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(4), 480-495; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4040021 - 26 Oct 2023
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
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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 AuroVistTM 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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Strategies in Nanomedicine)
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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://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4040020 - 02 Oct 2023
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Papers of the Editorial Board Members)
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Recent Advances in Combating Bacterial Infections by Using Hybrid Nano-Systems
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Unnati Patel and Emily C. Hunt
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 429-462; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4030019 - 08 Sep 2023
Cited by 2
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Innovations in Theranostic Nanobiomaterials)
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Aptamers as Theranostics in Cardiovascular Diseases
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Manish Ramchandani, Priyanka Kumari and Amit K. Goyal
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 408-428; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4030018 - 06 Sep 2023
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventional Nanotheranostics for Translational Nano-Immunotherapy)
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Smart Platinum Nanostructures: A Journey from Synthesis to Advanced Theranostic Applications
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Akash Kumar, Nabojit Das and Raja Gopal Rayavarapu
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 384-407; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4030017 - 10 Aug 2023
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Nano-Bio Interaction for Nanotheranostic Applications)
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Nanotheranostics: Platforms, Current Applications, and Mechanisms of Targeting in Breast and Prostate Cancers
by
Paul A. Akpa, Ikechukwu E. Peter, Akachukwu M. Onwuka, Bonaventure C. Obi, Maureen O. Akunne, Chukwuemeka S. Nworu, Paul M. Ejikeme, Theophine C. Akunne, Anthony A. Attama and Peter A. Akah
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 346-383; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4030016 - 10 Aug 2023
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Globally, cancer is one of the deadliest diseases, needing a meticulous diagnosis and targeted treatment plan to achieve an initial prognosis, followed by precision and optimization in treatment. Nonselective targeting, difficulty in accurately monitoring treatment end-results, serious drug side-effects, and severity of disease
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Globally, cancer is one of the deadliest diseases, needing a meticulous diagnosis and targeted treatment plan to achieve an initial prognosis, followed by precision and optimization in treatment. Nonselective targeting, difficulty in accurately monitoring treatment end-results, serious drug side-effects, and severity of disease resulting in metastasis are the key flaws of traditional techniques. Nanotechnology and nanoparticles possess special features to completely transform the field of diagnosis and treatment of cancer. A holistic strategy that employs a dual function of diagnosis and therapy while utilizing a nanocarrier is referred to as a nanotheranostic. The nanotheranostic framework was created to surmount a variety of biological and physiological obstacles, effectively delivering the cargo to the intended target location, while simultaneously facilitating therapeutic intervention, surveillance, and validation to demonstrate improved treatment effectiveness. As a result, a nanotheranostic platform can be useful for targeted drug delivery, release, and distribution assessment, in addition to patient classification and survival. Nanotheranostic techniques also lead to reduced drug side-effects compared with conventional therapies. In this review, we outline current studies on nanotheranostics and their advantages over conventional treatment strategies, the applications and challenges/limitations of nanotheranostics, and the mechanisms of targeting in breast and prostate cancers.
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An Overview of Nanotherapeutic Drug Delivery Options for the Management of Glioblastoma
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William H. Pentz, Vincenzo J. Pizzuti, Matthew E. Halbert, Tritan J. Plute, Paul R. Lockman and Samuel A. Sprowls
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 323-345; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4030015 - 01 Aug 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common primary, malignant brain tumor that remains uniformly lethal in nearly all cases as a result of extreme cellular heterogeneity, treatment resistance, and recurrence. A major hurdle in therapeutic delivery to brain tumors is the blood–brain barrier (BBB), which
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Glioblastoma is the most common primary, malignant brain tumor that remains uniformly lethal in nearly all cases as a result of extreme cellular heterogeneity, treatment resistance, and recurrence. A major hurdle in therapeutic delivery to brain tumors is the blood–brain barrier (BBB), which is the tightly regulated vascular barrier between the brain parenchyma and systemic circulation that prevents distribution of otherwise beneficial chemotherapeutics to central nervous system tumors. To overcome the obstacle of drug delivery beyond the BBB, nanoparticle formulations have come to the forefront, having demonstrated success in preclinical observations, but have not translated well into the clinical setting. In summary, this review article discusses brain tumors and challenges for drug delivery caused by the BBB, explores the benefits of nanoparticle formulations for brain tumor delivery, describes the characteristics these formulations possess that make them attractive therapeutic strategies, and provides preclinical examples that implement nanoparticles within glioma treatment regimens. Additionally, we explore the pitfalls associated with clinical translation and conclude with remarks geared toward overcoming these issues.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Strategies in Nanomedicine)
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Recent Advancement of Bio-Inspired Nanoparticles in Cancer Theragnostic
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Divya Tripathi, Kasturee Hajra and Dipak Maity
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 299-322; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4030014 - 24 Jul 2023
Cited by 2
Abstract
The introduction of cancer therapeutics and nanotechnology has resulted in a paradigm shift from conventional therapy to precision medicine. Nanotechnology, an interdisciplinary field with a focus on biomedical applications, holds immense promise in bringing about novel approaches for cancer detection, diagnosis, and therapy.
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The introduction of cancer therapeutics and nanotechnology has resulted in a paradigm shift from conventional therapy to precision medicine. Nanotechnology, an interdisciplinary field with a focus on biomedical applications, holds immense promise in bringing about novel approaches for cancer detection, diagnosis, and therapy. The past decade has witnessed significant research and material applications related to nanoparticles (NPs). NPs differ from small-molecule drugs as they possess unique physicochemical characteristics, such as a large surface-to-volume ratio, enabling them to penetrate live cells efficiently. Traditional cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, have limitations, such as cytotoxicity, lack of specificity, and multiple drug resistance, which pose significant challenges for effective cancer treatment. However, nanomaterials have unique properties that enable new therapeutic modalities beyond conventional drug delivery in the fight against cancer. Moreover, nanoparticles (1–100 nm) have numerous benefits, such as biocompatibility, reduced toxicity, excellent stability, enhanced permeability and retention effect, and precise targeting, making them ideal for cancer treatment. The purpose of this article is to provide consolidated information on various bio-inspired nanoparticles that aid in cancer theranostics.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional and Tunable Nano-Systems for High-Performance Theranostic and Tissue Engineering Applications)
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Polymeric Theragnostic Nanoplatforms for Bone Tissue Engineering
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Kaushita Banerjee and Harishkumar Madhyastha
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 280-298; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4030013 - 20 Jul 2023
Abstract
Nanomaterial-based tissue engineering strategies are precisely designed and tweaked to contest specific patient needs and their end applications. Though theragnostic is a radical term very eminent in cancer prognosis, of late, theragnostic approaches have been explored in the fields of tissue remodulation and
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Nanomaterial-based tissue engineering strategies are precisely designed and tweaked to contest specific patient needs and their end applications. Though theragnostic is a radical term very eminent in cancer prognosis, of late, theragnostic approaches have been explored in the fields of tissue remodulation and reparation. The engineering of theragnostic nanomaterials has opened up avenues for disease diagnosis, imaging, and therapeutic treatments. The instantaneous monitoring of therapeutic strategy is expected to co-deliver imaging and pharmaceutical agents at the same time, and nanoscale carrier moieties are convenient and efficient platforms in theragnostic applications, especially in soft and hard tissue regeneration. Furthermore, imaging modalities have extensively contributed to the signal-to-noise ratio. Simultaneously, there is an accumulation of high concentrations of therapeutic mediators at the defect site. Given the confines of contemporary bone diagnostic systems, the clinical rationale demands nano/biomaterials that can localize to bone-diseased sites to enhance the precision and prognostic value for osteoporosis, non-healing fractures, and/or infections, etc. Furthermore, bone theragnostics may have an even greater clinical impact and multimodal imaging procedures can overcome the restrictions of individual modalities. The present review introduces representative theragnostic polymeric nanomaterials and their advantages and disadvantages in practical use as well as their unique properties.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine)
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Emerging Trends in the Application of Green Synthesized Biocompatible ZnO Nanoparticles for Translational Paradigm in Cancer Therapy
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Shaikh Sheeran Naser, Basab Ghosh, Faizan Zarreen Simnani, Dibyangshee Singh, Anmol Choudhury, Aditya Nandi, Adrija Sinha, Ealisha Jha, Pritam Kumar Panda, Mrutyunjay Suar and Suresh K. Verma
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 248-279; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4030012 - 01 Jul 2023
Cited by 15
Abstract
Zinc oxide nanomaterials have been the cynosure of this decade because of their immense potential in different biomedical applications. It includes their usage in the prognosis and treatment of different infectious and cellular diseases, owing to their peculiar physiochemical properties such as variable
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Zinc oxide nanomaterials have been the cynosure of this decade because of their immense potential in different biomedical applications. It includes their usage in the prognosis and treatment of different infectious and cellular diseases, owing to their peculiar physiochemical properties such as variable shape, size, and surface charge etc. Increasing demand and usage of the ZnO nanomaterials raise concerns about their cellular and molecular toxicity and their biocompatibility with human cells. This review comprehensively details their physiochemical properties for usage in biomedical applications. Furthermore, the toxicological concerns of ZnO nanomaterials with different types of cellular systems have been reviewed. Moreover, the biomedical and biocompatible efficacy of ZnO nanomaterials for cancer specific pathways has been discussed. This review offers insights into the current scenario of ZnO nanomaterials usage and signifies their potential future extension usage on different types of biomedical and environmental applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Nano-Bio Interaction for Nanotheranostic Applications)
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Convolutional Neural Network Classification of Exhaled Aerosol Images for Diagnosis of Obstructive Respiratory Diseases
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Mohamed Talaat, Jensen Xi, Kaiyuan Tan, Xiuhua April Si and Jinxiang Xi
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 228-247; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4030011 - 26 Jun 2023
Cited by 4
Abstract
Aerosols exhaled from the lungs have distinctive patterns that can be linked to the abnormalities of the lungs. Yet, due to their intricate nature, it is highly challenging to analyze and distinguish these aerosol patterns. Small airway diseases pose an even greater challenge,
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Aerosols exhaled from the lungs have distinctive patterns that can be linked to the abnormalities of the lungs. Yet, due to their intricate nature, it is highly challenging to analyze and distinguish these aerosol patterns. Small airway diseases pose an even greater challenge, as the disturbance signals tend to be weak. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of four convolutional neural network (CNN) models (AlexNet, ResNet-50, MobileNet, and EfficientNet) in detecting and staging airway abnormalities in small airways using exhaled aerosol images. Specifically, the model’s capacity to classify images inside and outside the original design space was assessed. In doing so, multi-level testing on images with decreasing similarities was conducted for each model. A total of 2745 images were generated using physiology-based simulations from normal and obstructed lungs of varying stages. Multiple-round training on datasets with increasing images (and new features) was also conducted to evaluate the benefits of continuous learning. Results show reasonably high classification accuracy on inbox images for models but significantly lower accuracy on outbox images (i.e., outside design space). ResNet-50 was the most robust among the four models for both diagnostic (2-class: normal vs. disease) and staging (3-class) purposes, as well as on both inbox and outbox test datasets. Variation in flow rate was observed to play a more important role in classification decisions than particle size and throat variation. Continuous learning/training with appropriate images could substantially enhance classification accuracy, even with a small number (~100) of new images. This study shows that CNN transfer-learning models could detect small airway remodeling (<1 mm) amidst a variety of variants and that ResNet-50 can be a promising model for the future development of obstructive lung diagnostic systems.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Strategies in Nanomedicine)
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The Golden Liposomes: Preparation and Biomedical Applications of Gold-Liposome Nanocomposites
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Sourour Idoudi, Roua Ismail, Ousama Rachid, Abdelbary Elhissi and Alaaldin M. Alkilany
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 201-227; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4030010 - 25 Jun 2023
Cited by 1
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Gold nanoparticles (AuNP) have received a growing attention due to their fascinating physiochemical properties and promising range of biomedical applications including sensing, diagnosis and cancer photothermal ablation. AuNP enjoy brilliant optical properties and ability to convert light into local heat and function as
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Gold nanoparticles (AuNP) have received a growing attention due to their fascinating physiochemical properties and promising range of biomedical applications including sensing, diagnosis and cancer photothermal ablation. AuNP enjoy brilliant optical properties and ability to convert light into local heat and function as a “nanoheaters” to fight cancer. However, AuNP are poor drug delivery systems as they do not have reservoirs or matrices to achieve an acceptable drug loading efficiency. On the other end, liposome-based nanocarriers do not exhibit such optical properties but are excellent platform for drug loading and they have been proven clinically with a true presence in the market since the FDA approved Doxil® in 1995. Combining the brilliant optical and photothermal properties of AuNP with the excellent drug loading capability of liposome should yield nanocomposites that enjoy the features of both modalities and enable the development of novel and smart drug delivery systems. Therefore, this review discusses the up-to date research on the AuNP-liposome nanocomposites and the current available approaches and protocols for their preparation and characterization. Finally, the biomedical applications of AuNP-liposome nanocomposites and proposed future directions in this field are discussed.
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Self-Assembled Monolayers Derived from Positively Charged Adsorbates on Plasmonic Substrates for MicroRNA Delivery: A Review
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Johnson Hoang, Pooria Tajalli, Mina Omidiyan, Maria D. Marquez, Orawan Khantamat, Wirote Tuntiwechapikul, Chien-Hung Li, Arati Kohlhatkar, Hung-Vu Tran, Preethi H. Gunaratne and T. Randall Lee
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(2), 171-200; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4020009 - 08 May 2023
Cited by 2
Abstract
MicroRNA (miRNA) has emerged as a promising alternative therapeutic treatment for cancer, but its delivery has been hindered by low cellular uptake and degradation during circulation. In this review, we discuss the various methods of delivering miRNA, including viral and non-viral delivery systems
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MicroRNA (miRNA) has emerged as a promising alternative therapeutic treatment for cancer, but its delivery has been hindered by low cellular uptake and degradation during circulation. In this review, we discuss the various methods of delivering miRNA, including viral and non-viral delivery systems such as liposomes and nanoparticles. We also examine the use of nanoparticles for miRNA-based diagnostics. We focus specifically on non-viral delivery systems utilizing coinage metals in the form of nanoparticles and the use of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) as a method of surface modification. We review the use of SAMs for the conjugation and delivery of small noncoding ribonucleic acid (ncRNA), particularly SAMs derived from positively charged adsorbates to generate charged surfaces that can interact electrostatically with negatively charged miRNA. We also discuss the effects of the cellular uptake of gold and other plasmonic nanoparticles, as well as the challenges associated with the degradation of oligonucleotides. Our review highlights the potential of SAM-based systems as versatile and robust tools for delivering miRNA and other RNAs in vitro and in vivo and the need for further research to address the challenges associated with miRNA delivery and diagnostics.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Technologies for Drug Delivery, Pathogen Detection and Diagnostics)
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Recent Advances in Noble Metal Nanoparticles for Cancer Nanotheranostics
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Dhiraj Kumar, Isha Mutreja and Ajeet Kaushik
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(2), 150-170; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4020008 - 26 Apr 2023
Cited by 6
Abstract
The limitations of current treatment strategies for cancer management have prompted a significant shift in the research and development of new effective strategies exhibiting higher efficacy and acceptable side effects. In this direction, nanotheranostics has gained significant interest in recent years, combining the
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The limitations of current treatment strategies for cancer management have prompted a significant shift in the research and development of new effective strategies exhibiting higher efficacy and acceptable side effects. In this direction, nanotheranostics has gained significant interest in recent years, combining the diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities of nanostructures for efficient disease diagnosis, treatment, and management. Such nano-assisted platforms permit the site-specific release of bioactive cargo in a controlled fashion while permitting non-invasive real-time in situ monitoring. A plethora of materials has been developed as pharmacologically relevant nanoformulations for theranostic applications ranging from metallic to lipid and polymer-based composite systems, with each offering potential opportunities and its own limitations. To improve advancements with better clarity, the main focus of this review is to highlight the recent developments focusing on using different noble metal nanoparticles (noble MNPs) as cancer nanotheranostic agents, highlighting their properties, advantages, and potential modifications for their successful utilization in personalized medicine. The advantage of using noble metals (not all, but those with an atomic number ≥76) over metal NPs is their tendency to provide additional properties, such as X-ray attenuation and near-infrared activity. The combination of these properties translates to noble MNPs for therapeutic and diagnostic applications, independent of the need for additional active molecules. Through this review, we highlighted the potential application of all noble MNPs and the limited use of osmium, iridium, palladium, rhodium, and ruthenium metal NSs, even though they express similar physicochemical characteristics. The literature search was limited by PubMed, full-text availability, and studies including both in vitro and in vivo models.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional and Tunable Nano-Systems for High-Performance Theranostic and Tissue Engineering Applications)
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Consolidation of Gold and Gadolinium Nanoparticles: An Extra Step towards Improving Cancer Imaging and Therapy
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Maria Anthi Kouri, Konstantina Polychronidou, Grigorios Loukas, Aikaterini Megapanou, Ioanna-Aglaia Vagena, Angelica M. Gerardos, Ellas Spyratou and Eftstathios P. Eftsathopoulos
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(2), 127-149; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4020007 - 26 Apr 2023
Cited by 1
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The multifactorial nature of cancer still classifies the disease as one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Modern medical sciences are following an interdisciplinary approach that has been fueled by the nanoscale revolution of the past years. The exploitation of high-Z materials,
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The multifactorial nature of cancer still classifies the disease as one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Modern medical sciences are following an interdisciplinary approach that has been fueled by the nanoscale revolution of the past years. The exploitation of high-Z materials, in combination with ionizing or non-ionizing radiation, promises to overcome restrictions in medical imaging and to augment the efficacy of current therapeutic modalities. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have proven their value among the scientific community in various therapeutic and diagnostic techniques. However, the high level of multiparametric demands of AuNP experiments in combination with their biocompatibility and cytotoxicity levels remain crucial issues. Gadolinium NPs (GdNPs), have presented high biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, and excellent hemocompatibility, and have been utilized in MRI-guided radiotherapy, photodynamic and photothermal therapy, etc. Τhe utilization of gadolinium bound to AuNPs may be a promising alternative that would reduce phenomena, such as toxicity, aggregation, etc., and could create a multimodal in vivo contrast and therapeutic agent. This review highlights multi-functionalization strategies against cancer where gold and gadolinium NPs are implicated. Their experimental applications and limitations of the past 5 years will be analyzed in the hope of enlightening the benefits and drawbacks of their proper combination.
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Recent Advancements, Challenges, and Future Prospects in Usage of Nanoformulation as Theranostics in Inflammatory Diseases
by
Amit K. Goyal, Manish Ramchandani and Trambak Basak
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(1), 106-126; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4010006 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
As of today, chronic inflammatory diseases are a progressive cause of death worldwide, accounting for more than 50% of all fatalities. These inflammatory conditions are a major concern, ranging from heart disease to cancer, diabetes, to even neurodegenerative conditions. Conventional diagnosis and treatment
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As of today, chronic inflammatory diseases are a progressive cause of death worldwide, accounting for more than 50% of all fatalities. These inflammatory conditions are a major concern, ranging from heart disease to cancer, diabetes, to even neurodegenerative conditions. Conventional diagnosis and treatment for these problems are often challenging and limited due to complex pathophysiology. To improve upon current treatment and diagnostic strategies, theranostic nanomaterials have been developed. Theranostics is an amalgamation of diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic medicines that have a shared target in damaged cells or tissues. Different theranostic nanoparticles generate enhanced imaging results for facilities such as MRI, PET scan, and CT scans depending on the site of inflammation in different organs. Furthermore, they can be treated with radiopharmaceuticals and/or medicine in nanoparticles. Following a brief discussion of conventional inflammatory diagnosis and therapeutic strategies, this review will cover the recent progress made in theranostic nanomaterials and nanomedicine tactics for managing inflammatory disorders, covering the preclinical and clinical stages of these advances from the past five years. Furthermore, present challenges with theranostic nanoparticles for inflammatory detection and treatment are discussed, as well as future research possibilities.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional and Tunable Nano-Systems for High-Performance Theranostic and Tissue Engineering Applications)
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Open AccessReview
Novel Biophotonic Techniques for Phototherapy Enhancement: Cerenkov Radiation as a Bridge between Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation Treatment
by
Ellas Spyratou, Kyriakos Kokkinogoulis, Georgios Tsigaridas, Georgios Kareliotis, Kalliopi Platoni, Mersini Makropoulou and Efstathios P. Efstathopoulos
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(1), 86-105; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4010005 - 27 Feb 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
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In oncology, tremendous research has been conducted on the use of alternative minimally invasive techniques for cancer treatment and diagnosis. The use of biophotonic techniques as a standalone treatment or together with conventional imaging techniques has gained interest among researchers in recent years,
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In oncology, tremendous research has been conducted on the use of alternative minimally invasive techniques for cancer treatment and diagnosis. The use of biophotonic techniques as a standalone treatment or together with conventional imaging techniques has gained interest among researchers in recent years, while biophotonic therapies such as photothermal and photodynamic therapies tend to bring the use of non-ionizing radiation in therapy back into the spotlight due to the progressive development of optical instrumentation, enhancement agents, molecular probes, light sources and nanocarriers. Thus, the coupling of non-ionizing with ionizing radiation (IR) and the combination of nanomedicine with nuclear medicine procedures are considered to be revolutionary strategies to optimize the therapeutic efficacy of biophotonic modalities and to develop theranostic applications for the better diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Recently, the low-intensity Cerenkov light emitted by tissues as a byproduct of the IR–biostructure interaction has been suggested as an effective internal light source that can trigger phototherapy and guide radiotherapy dosimetry using Cerenkov imaging. This review also provides an overview of in vitro and in vivo studies regarding the use of Cerenkov radiation produced by X-rays or radionucleotides and combined with nanoparticles as a hybrid method to induce enhanced photothermal and photodynamic therapies.
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Responsive Nanostructure for Targeted Drug Delivery
by
Vaishali Pawar, Priyanka Maske, Amreen Khan, Arnab Ghosh, Roshan Keshari, Mahek Bhatt and Rohit Srivastava
J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(1), 55-85; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jnt4010004 - 08 Feb 2023
Cited by 4
Abstract
Currently, intelligent, responsive biomaterials have been widely explored, considering the fact that responsive biomaterials provide controlled and predictable results in various biomedical systems. Responsive nanostructures undergo reversible or irreversible changes in the presence of a stimulus, and that stimuli can be temperature, a
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Currently, intelligent, responsive biomaterials have been widely explored, considering the fact that responsive biomaterials provide controlled and predictable results in various biomedical systems. Responsive nanostructures undergo reversible or irreversible changes in the presence of a stimulus, and that stimuli can be temperature, a magnetic field, ultrasound, pH, humidity, pressure, light, electric field, etc. Different types of stimuli being used in drug delivery shall be explained here. Recent research progress in the design, development and applications of biomaterials comprising responsive nanostructures is also described here. More emphasis will be given on the various nanostructures explored for the smart stimuli responsive drug delivery at the target site such as wound healing, cancer therapy, inflammation, and pain management in order to achieve the improved efficacy and sustainability with the lowest side effects. However, it is still a big challenge to develop well-defined responsive nanostructures with ordered output; thus, challenges faced during the design and development of these nanostructures shall also be included in this article. Clinical perspectives and applicability of the responsive nanostructures in the targeted drug delivery shall be discussed here.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional and Tunable Nano-Systems for High-Performance Theranostic and Tissue Engineering Applications)
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