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Featured Reviews in Nanochemistry

A special issue of Molecules (ISSN 1420-3049). This special issue belongs to the section "Nanochemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2024 | Viewed by 14677

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, Universität Paderborn, Paderborn, Germany
Interests: DNA nanotechnology; DNA origami; amyloid; biointerfaces; nanobiomaterials; biomolecular self-assembly; atomic force microscopy
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue of Molecules (MDPI) is inviting contributions that review any area of research in nanochemistry, with the aim of appealing to a broad and diverse audience. We particularly welcome summaries of recent, innovative, and interdisciplinary developments in nanochemistry that also touch on the neighboring fields of physics, biology, medicine, and materials science. Contributions shall critically summarize a selection of studies, methodologies, techniques, or applications; examine previously unaddressed aspects; propose and develop new approaches; exchange perspectives; and encourage new lines of research. Suitable topics include but are not limited to:

  • Synthesis, characterization, and modelling of organic, inorganic, and biological nanomaterials;
  • Spectroscopy and microscopy in relation to nanostructures and nanomaterials;
  • Molecular and colloidal self-assembly;
  • Nanomedicine and nanobiotechnology;
  • Nanodevices and nanorobots;
  • Health, environmental, safety, and sustainability aspects of nanomaterials.

The major goal of this Special Issue is to collect concise articles from prominent authors and present an overview of the diverse and exciting research directions in the broad field of nanochemistry.

Dr. Adrian Keller
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Molecules is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • nanochemistry
  • nanomaterials
  • nanoparticles
  • nanomedicine
  • nanoanalysis

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Review

20 pages, 4858 KiB  
Review
Overcoming Cancer Drug Resistance with Nanoparticle Strategies for Key Protein Inhibition
by Hyeonji Yoo, Yeonjin Kim, Jinseong Kim, Hanhee Cho and Kwangmeyung Kim
Molecules 2024, 29(17), 3994; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29173994 - 23 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1226
Abstract
Drug resistance remains a critical barrier in cancer therapy, diminishing the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic, targeted, and immunotherapeutic agents. Overexpression of proteins such as B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), protein kinase B (Akt), and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in various cancers leads [...] Read more.
Drug resistance remains a critical barrier in cancer therapy, diminishing the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic, targeted, and immunotherapeutic agents. Overexpression of proteins such as B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), protein kinase B (Akt), and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in various cancers leads to resistance by inhibiting apoptosis, enhancing cell survival, and expelling drugs. Although several inhibitors targeting these proteins have been developed, their clinical use is often hampered by systemic toxicity, poor bioavailability, and resistance development. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems present a promising solution by improving drug solubility, stability, and targeted delivery. These systems leverage the Enhanced Permeation and Retention (EPR) effect to accumulate in tumor tissues, reducing off-target toxicity and increasing therapeutic efficacy. Co-encapsulation strategies involving anticancer drugs and resistance inhibitors within nanoparticles have shown potential in achieving coordinated pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. This review discusses the mechanisms of drug resistance, the limitations of current inhibitors, and the advantages of nanoparticle delivery systems in overcoming these challenges. By advancing these technologies, we can enhance treatment outcomes and move towards more effective cancer therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Featured Reviews in Nanochemistry)
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19 pages, 4721 KiB  
Review
Recent Progress in Thermoplastic Polyurethane/MXene Nanocomposites: Preparation, Flame-Retardant Properties and Applications
by Yao Yuan, Weiliang Lin, Lulu Xu and Wei Wang
Molecules 2024, 29(16), 3880; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29163880 - 16 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1066
Abstract
MXene, a promising two-dimensional nanomaterial, exhibits significant potential across various applications due to its multilayered structure, metal-like conductivity, solution processability, and surface functionalization capabilities. These remarkable properties facilitate the integration of MXenes and MXene-based materials into high-performance polymer composites. Regarding this, a comprehensive [...] Read more.
MXene, a promising two-dimensional nanomaterial, exhibits significant potential across various applications due to its multilayered structure, metal-like conductivity, solution processability, and surface functionalization capabilities. These remarkable properties facilitate the integration of MXenes and MXene-based materials into high-performance polymer composites. Regarding this, a comprehensive and well-structured up-to-date review is essential to provide an in-depth understanding of MXene/thermoplastic polyurethane nanocomposites. This review discusses various synthetic and modification methods of MXenes, current research progress and future potential on MXene/thermoplastic polyurethane nanocomposites, existing knowledge gaps, and further development. The main focus is on discussing strategies for modifying MXene-based compounds and their flame-retardant efficiency, with particular emphasis on understanding their mechanisms within the TPU matrix. Ultimately, this review addresses current challenges and suggests future directions for the practical utilization of these materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Featured Reviews in Nanochemistry)
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83 pages, 5196 KiB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review of Nanoparticles: From Classification to Application and Toxicity
by Furkan Eker, Hatice Duman, Emir Akdaşçi, Ecem Bolat, Sümeyye Sarıtaş, Sercan Karav and Anna Maria Witkowska
Molecules 2024, 29(15), 3482; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29153482 - 25 Jul 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3395
Abstract
Nanoparticles are structures that possess unique properties with high surface area-to-volume ratio. Their small size, up to 100 nm, and potential for surface modifications have enabled their use in a wide range of applications. Various factors influence the properties and applications of NPs, [...] Read more.
Nanoparticles are structures that possess unique properties with high surface area-to-volume ratio. Their small size, up to 100 nm, and potential for surface modifications have enabled their use in a wide range of applications. Various factors influence the properties and applications of NPs, including the synthesis method and physical attributes such as size and shape. Additionally, the materials used in the synthesis of NPs are primary determinants of their application. Based on the chosen material, NPs are generally classified into three categories: organic, inorganic, and carbon-based. These categories include a variety of materials, such as proteins, polymers, metal ions, lipids and derivatives, magnetic minerals, and so on. Each material possesses unique attributes that influence the activity and application of the NPs. Consequently, certain NPs are typically used in particular areas because they possess higher efficiency along with tenable toxicity. Therefore, the classification and the base material in the NP synthesis hold significant importance in both NP research and application. In this paper, we discuss these classifications, exemplify most of the major materials, and categorize them according to their preferred area of application. This review provides an overall review of the materials, including their application, and toxicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Featured Reviews in Nanochemistry)
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15 pages, 3511 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Regulating Ceramic Monolithic Catalyst Structure for Preferential Oxidation of CO in H2
by Qing Wang, Jiancai Sui, Linlin Li, Yongxiao Tuo, Wenfa Zhang, Guoyu Zhong, Huanxin Zhou and Xiang Feng
Molecules 2024, 29(15), 3481; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29153481 - 25 Jul 2024
Viewed by 831
Abstract
Preferential oxidation of CO (CO-PROX) has tremendous significance in purifying hydrogen for fuel cells to avoid catalyst poisoning by CO molecules. Traditional powder catalysts face numerous challenges, including high pressure drop, aggregation tendency, hotspot formation, poor mass and heat transfer efficiency, and inadequate [...] Read more.
Preferential oxidation of CO (CO-PROX) has tremendous significance in purifying hydrogen for fuel cells to avoid catalyst poisoning by CO molecules. Traditional powder catalysts face numerous challenges, including high pressure drop, aggregation tendency, hotspot formation, poor mass and heat transfer efficiency, and inadequate thermal stability. Accordingly, ceramic monolithic catalysts, known as their excellent thermal stability, high surface area, and superior mass and heat transfer characteristics, are gaining increasing research attention. This review examines recent studies on ceramic monolithic catalysts in CO-PROX, placing emphasis on the regulation of active sites (e.g., precious metals like Pt and Au, and non-precious metals like CuO and CeO2), monolith structures, and coating strategies. In addition, the structure–catalytic performance relationships, as well as the potential and limitations of different ceramic monolithic catalysts in practical application, are discussed. Finally, the challenges of monolithic catalysts and future research prospects in CO-PROX reactions are highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Featured Reviews in Nanochemistry)
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24 pages, 2050 KiB  
Review
Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)-Based Sensors for Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Detection
by Shireen Zangana, Miklós Veres and Attila Bonyár
Molecules 2024, 29(14), 3338; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29143338 - 16 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1474
Abstract
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has emerged as a powerful technique for the detection and analysis of biomolecules due to its high sensitivity and selectivity. In recent years, SERS-based sensors have received significant attention for the detection of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecules, offering promising [...] Read more.
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has emerged as a powerful technique for the detection and analysis of biomolecules due to its high sensitivity and selectivity. In recent years, SERS-based sensors have received significant attention for the detection of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecules, offering promising applications in fields such as medical diagnostics, forensic analysis, and environmental monitoring. This paper provides a concise overview of the principles, advancements, and potential of SERS-based sensors for DNA detection. First, the fundamental principles of SERS are introduced, highlighting its ability to enhance the Raman scattering signal by several orders of magnitude through the interaction between target molecules with metallic nanostructures. Then, the fabrication technologies of SERS substrates tailored for DNA detection are reviewed. The performances of SERS substrates previously reported for DNA detection are compared and analyzed in terms of the limit of detection (LOD) and enhancement factor (EF) in detail, with respect to the technical parameters of Raman spectroscopy (e.g., laser wavelength and power). Additionally, strategies for functionalizing the sensor surfaces with DNA-specific capture probes or aptamers are outlined. The collected data can be of help in selecting and optimizing the most suitable fabrication technology considering nucleotide sensing applications with Raman spectroscopy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Featured Reviews in Nanochemistry)
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17 pages, 1176 KiB  
Review
The Role of Nanomedicine in Benign Gynecologic Disorders
by Bethlehem A. Lulseged, Malini S. Ramaiyer, Rachel Michel, Eslam E. Saad, Bulent Ozpolat and Mostafa A. Borahay
Molecules 2024, 29(9), 2095; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29092095 - 1 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2193
Abstract
Nanomedicine has revolutionized drug delivery in the last two decades. Nanoparticles appear to be a promising drug delivery platform in the treatment of various gynecological disorders including uterine leiomyoma, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and menopause. Nanoparticles are tiny (mean size < 1000 [...] Read more.
Nanomedicine has revolutionized drug delivery in the last two decades. Nanoparticles appear to be a promising drug delivery platform in the treatment of various gynecological disorders including uterine leiomyoma, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and menopause. Nanoparticles are tiny (mean size < 1000 nm), biodegradable, biocompatible, non-toxic, safe, and relatively inexpensive materials commonly used in imaging and the drug delivery of various therapeutics, such as chemotherapeutics, small molecule inhibitors, immune mediators, protein peptides and non-coding RNA. We performed a literature review of published studies to examine the role of nanoparticles in treating uterine leiomyoma, endometriosis, PCOS, and menopause. In uterine leiomyoma, nanoparticles containing 2-methoxyestradiole and simvastatin, promising uterine fibroid treatments, have been effective in significantly inhibiting tumor growth compared to controls in in vivo mouse models with patient-derived leiomyoma xenografts. Nanoparticles have also shown efficacy in delivering magnetic hyperthermia to ablate endometriotic tissue. Moreover, nanoparticles can be used to deliver hormones and have shown efficacy as a mechanism for transdermal hormone replacement therapy in individuals with menopause. In this review, we aim to summarize research findings and report the efficacy of nanoparticles and nanotherapeutics in the treatment of various benign gynecologic conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Featured Reviews in Nanochemistry)
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37 pages, 7534 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Electrochemical Sensors for Formaldehyde
by Yufei Yang, Yuanqiang Hao, Lijie Huang, Yuanjian Luo, Shu Chen, Maotian Xu and Wansong Chen
Molecules 2024, 29(2), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29020327 - 9 Jan 2024
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3867
Abstract
Formaldehyde, a ubiquitous indoor air pollutant, plays a significant role in various biological processes, posing both environmental and health challenges. This comprehensive review delves into the latest advancements in electrochemical methods for detecting formaldehyde, a compound of growing concern due to its widespread [...] Read more.
Formaldehyde, a ubiquitous indoor air pollutant, plays a significant role in various biological processes, posing both environmental and health challenges. This comprehensive review delves into the latest advancements in electrochemical methods for detecting formaldehyde, a compound of growing concern due to its widespread use and potential health hazards. This review underscores the inherent advantages of electrochemical techniques, such as high sensitivity, selectivity, and capability for real-time analysis, making them highly effective for formaldehyde monitoring. We explore the fundamental principles, mechanisms, and diverse methodologies employed in electrochemical formaldehyde detection, highlighting the role of innovative sensing materials and electrodes. Special attention is given to recent developments in nanotechnology and sensor design, which significantly enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of these detection systems. Moreover, this review identifies current challenges and discusses future research directions. Our aim is to encourage ongoing research and innovation in this field, ultimately leading to the development of advanced, practical solutions for formaldehyde detection in various environmental and biological contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Featured Reviews in Nanochemistry)
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