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Pharmaceutics
Special Issues
Novel Micro/Nanomaterials Based Drug Delivery Systems for Theranostic Applications
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Novel Micro/Nanomaterials Based Drug Delivery Systems for Theranostic Applications

A special issue of Pharmaceutics (ISSN 1999-4923). This special issue belongs to the section "Drug Delivery and Controlled Release".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 April 2025 | Viewed by 5109

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Pedro Fonte

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Guest Editor
1. Center for Marine Sciences (CCMar), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
2. Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences (iBB), Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
Interests: the development of new drug delivery systems by means of colloidal carriers; the structural characterization of proteins entrapped into micro- and nanocarriers; the lyophilization of biopharmaceuticals; the targeted and controlled delivery of drugs across biological barriers; the solid-state characterization of pharmaceuticals and the drying of pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals; regenerative medicine
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Pedro Brandão

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Egas Moniz Interdisciplinary Research Center (CiiEM), Egas Moniz School of Health and Science, Quinta da Granja, 2829-511 Monte da Caparica, Portugal
2. iBB–Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences and Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
3. CQC-IMS, Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
Interests: drug delivery; drug discovery; medicinal chemistry; biomaterials; sustainability; multicomponent reactions
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Sofia de Oliveira Dias Duarte

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Guest Editor
Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Department of Bioengineering, and Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
Interests: nanotechnology; drug delivery systems; regenerative medicine; synthetic biology; genome editing; lactic acid bacteria
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to invite and welcome submissions to our upcoming Special Issue, titled "Novel Micro/Nanomaterial-Based Drug Delivery Systems for Theranostic Applications". This Special Issue aims to explore cutting-edge developments in the field of micro- and nanomaterials, particularly focusing on their applications in drug delivery systems for theranostics. The convergence of nanotechnology and medicine has opened up new frontiers in healthcare, enabling the development of highly efficient drug delivery systems with the ability to simultaneously diagnose and treat diseases. The use of micro- and nanomaterials in drug delivery not only enhances the effectiveness of therapeutic agents but also minimizes side effects, thereby revolutionizing the approach to disease management. This research area holds significant promise for advancing personalized medicine, developing targeted therapies, and improving the real-time monitoring of treatment responses, making it a vital field of study in modern medical science.

The aim of this Special Issue is to present groundbreaking research on micro- and nanomaterial-based drug delivery systems used for theranostic applications. It aligns with the journal's focus on pharmaceutics and biopharmaceutics, and it seeks to compile a collection of at least 10 high-quality articles. The Special Issue aims to provide a platform for interdisciplinary research contributions.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Potential research areas include (but are not limited to) the following:

  • The design and synthesis of novel micro- and nanomaterials for drug delivery;
  • Nanocarriers used for targeted drug delivery and controlled release;
  • Biocompatibility and toxicity studies of micro/nanomaterials;
  • Nanotechnology in imaging and diagnostics for theranostic applications;
  • Clinical translational studies of nanomaterial-based theranostics;
  • Advances in personalized medicine using micro/nanotechnology;
  • Innovations in drug delivery systems for specific diseases (e.g., cancer, cardiovascular diseases);
  • Multifunctional and stimuli-responsive drug delivery platforms.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Pedro Fonte
Dr. Pedro Brandão
Dr. Sofia de Oliveira Dias Duarte
Guest Editors

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. Pharmaceutics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly 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 2900 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

  • nanotechnology
  • drug delivery systems
  • theranostics
  • micro/nanomaterials
  • personalized medicine
  • nanomedicine
  • cancer
  • diagnosis

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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23 pages, 7292 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Carbon Dots Loaded into Carboxymethylcellulose Based Hydrogels for Uterine Cancer Bioimaging
by Jordane S. Rodrigues, Pedro Brandão, Sofia O. D. Duarte, Izabela Boueri da Silveira, Maria de Fátima Leite, Max P. Gonçalves, Fernanda G. L. Medeiros Borsagli and Pedro Fonte
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(12), 1500; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16121500 - 22 Nov 2024
Viewed by 119
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The development of innovative materials for disease diagnostics and therapeutics is a fast-growing area of scientific research. In this work, we report the development of innovative hydrogels incorporating carbon dots (Cdots) for bioimaging purposes. Methods: The Cdots were prepared using [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The development of innovative materials for disease diagnostics and therapeutics is a fast-growing area of scientific research. In this work, we report the development of innovative hydrogels incorporating carbon dots (Cdots) for bioimaging purposes. Methods: The Cdots were prepared using a sustainable and low-cost process, starting with an underused fiber from the Brazilian semiarid region. Spectroscopy analysis (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy), X-ray diffraction, photoluminescence, zeta potential, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize these hydrogels. In addition, biocompatibility using the resazurin assay and cellular uptake by confocal microscopy were evaluated. Results: Our results showed that the Cdots changed the structure and crystallinity of hydrogels, mainly due to heat treatment. In addition, hydrogels’ chemical groups suffer red and blue shifts following the Cdots incorporation. Moreover, the Cdots were homogeneously incorporated into the hydrogel matrix. Importantly, the cytotoxicity levels were maintained above 90% (p < 0.01), and cellular uptake studies using HeLa cells demonstrated intracellular fluorescence of both the Cdots and hydrogels after incubation. Additionally, the concentration of Cdots within hydrogels significantly affected fluorescence intensity, even compared with pure Cdots. Conclusions: These results showcase the potential for these hydrogels to be further developed as biomarkers and therapeutic biomaterials for women’s health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Micro/Nanomaterials Based Drug Delivery Systems for Theranostic Applications)
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12 pages, 5372 KiB  
Article
Preparation of Glutathione-Responsive Paclitaxel Prodrug Based on Endogenous Molecule of L-Glutathione Oxidized for Cancer Therapy
by Xiao Duan, Qiang Wang, Yue Wang, Xinping Liu, Manman Lu, Zhifang Li, Xuelian Jiang and Jingquan Ji
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(9), 1178; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16091178 - 6 Sep 2024
Viewed by 832
Abstract
Using an endogenous carrier is the best method to address the biocompatibility of carriers in the drug delivery field. Herein, we prepared a glutathione-responsive paclitaxel prodrug micelle based on an endogenous molecule of L-glutathione oxidized (GSSG) for cancer therapy using one-pot synthesis. The [...] Read more.
Using an endogenous carrier is the best method to address the biocompatibility of carriers in the drug delivery field. Herein, we prepared a glutathione-responsive paclitaxel prodrug micelle based on an endogenous molecule of L-glutathione oxidized (GSSG) for cancer therapy using one-pot synthesis. The carboxyl groups in L-glutathione oxidized were reacted with the hydroxyl group in paclitaxel (PTX) using the catalysts dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) and 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP). Then, the amino-polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether (mPEG-NH2) was conjugated with GSSG to prepare PTX-GSSG-PEG. The structure of PTX-GSSG-PEG was characterized using infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and mass spectrometry (MS). The drug release kinetics of PTX within PTX-GSSG-PEG were quantified using ultraviolet spectroscopy (UV-Vis). The size of the PTX-GSSG-PEG micelles was 83 nm, as evaluated using dynamic light scattering (DLS), and their particle size remained stable in a pH 7.4 PBS for 7 days. Moreover, the micelles could responsively degrade and release PTX in a reduced glutathione environment. The drug loading of PTX in PTX-GSSG-PEG was 13%, as determined using NMR. Furthermore, the cumulative drug release rate of PTX from the micelles reached 72.1% in a reduced glutathione environment of 5 mg/mL at 120 h. Cell viability experiments demonstrated that the PTX-GSSG-PEG micelles could induce the apoptosis of MCF-7 cells. Additionally, cell uptake showed that the micelles could distribute to the cell nuclei within 7 h. To sum up, with this glutathione-responsive paclitaxel prodrug micelle based on the endogenous molecule GSSG, it may be possible to develop novel nanomedicines in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Micro/Nanomaterials Based Drug Delivery Systems for Theranostic Applications)
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15 pages, 2278 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Cytotoxicity against a Pancreatic Cancer Cell Line Combining Radiation and Gold Nanoparticles
by Alexandra Martins, Brigida C. Ferreira, Maria Manuela Gaspar, Sandra Vieira, Joana Lopes, Ana S. Viana, António Paulo, Filipa Mendes, Maria Paula Cabral Campello, Rui Martins and Catarina Pinto Reis
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(7), 900; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16070900 - 5 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1009
Abstract
The present work consisted of an exploratory study aiming to evaluate in vitro the potential of AuNPs during Radiation Therapy (RT) in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells. AuNPs coated with hyaluronic and oleic acids (HAOA-AuNPs) or with bombesin peptides (BBN-AuNPs) were used. AuNPs were [...] Read more.
The present work consisted of an exploratory study aiming to evaluate in vitro the potential of AuNPs during Radiation Therapy (RT) in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells. AuNPs coated with hyaluronic and oleic acids (HAOA-AuNPs) or with bombesin peptides (BBN-AuNPs) were used. AuNPs were characterized by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Dynamic Light Scattering. BxPC-3 tumor cells were irradiated with a 6 MV X-rays beam, in the absence or presence of AuNPs. AFM showed that HAOA-AuNPs and BBN-AuNPs are spherical with a mean size of 83 ± 20 nm and 49 ± 12 nm, respectively. For RT alone, a reduction in cell viability of up to 33 ± 12% was obtained compared to the control (p ≤ 0.0001). HAOA-AuNPs alone at 200 and 400 μM showed a reduction in cell viability of 20 ± 4% and 35 ± 4%, respectively, while for BBN-AuNPs, at 50 and 200 μM, a reduction in cell viability of 25 ± 3% and 37 ± 3% was obtained, respectively, compared to the control (p < 0.0001). At 72 h post-irradiation, a decrease in cell viability of 26 ± 3% and 22 ± 2% between RT + HAOA-AuNPs at 400 μM and RT + BBN-AuNPs at 50 μM, compared to RT alone, was obtained (p < 0.004). The combination of RT with AuNPs led to a significant decrease in cell viability compared to the control, or RT alone, thus representing an improved effect. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Micro/Nanomaterials Based Drug Delivery Systems for Theranostic Applications)
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Review

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20 pages, 2706 KiB  
Review
Applications of Novel Microscale and Nanoscale Materials for Theranostics: From Design to Clinical Translation
by Mengxiang Tian, Bingzhi Dong, Weiqi Li, Liying Wang and Hong Yu
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(10), 1339; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16101339 - 18 Oct 2024
Viewed by 868
Abstract
The growing global prevalence of chronic diseases has highlighted the limitations of conventional drug delivery methods, which often suffer from non-specific distribution, systemic toxicity, and poor bioavailability. Microscale and nanoscale materials have emerged as innovative solutions, offering enhanced targeting, controlled release, and the [...] Read more.
The growing global prevalence of chronic diseases has highlighted the limitations of conventional drug delivery methods, which often suffer from non-specific distribution, systemic toxicity, and poor bioavailability. Microscale and nanoscale materials have emerged as innovative solutions, offering enhanced targeting, controlled release, and the convergence of therapeutic and diagnostic functions, referred to as theranostics. This review explores the design principles, mechanisms of action, and clinical applications of various novel micro- and nanomaterials in diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and infectious diseases. These materials enable real-time monitoring of therapeutic responses and facilitate precision medicine approaches. Additionally, this paper addresses the significant challenges hindering clinical translation, including biocompatibility, potential toxicity, and regulatory issues. Ongoing clinical trials demonstrate the potential of nanomaterials in theranostic applications, but further research is needed to overcome the barriers to widespread clinical adoption. This work aims to contribute to the acceleration of integrating nanomedicine into clinical practice, ultimately enhancing the efficacy and safety of therapeutic interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Micro/Nanomaterials Based Drug Delivery Systems for Theranostic Applications)
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49 pages, 2873 KiB  
Review
Unlocking the Potential of Silver Nanoparticles: From Synthesis to Versatile Bio-Applications
by Ahmad Almatroudi
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(9), 1232; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16091232 - 21 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1221
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are leading the way in nanotechnological innovation, combining the captivating properties of silver with the accuracy of nanoscale engineering, thus revolutionizing material science. Three main techniques arise within the alchemical domains of AgNP genesis: chemical, physical, and biological synthesis. Each [...] Read more.
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are leading the way in nanotechnological innovation, combining the captivating properties of silver with the accuracy of nanoscale engineering, thus revolutionizing material science. Three main techniques arise within the alchemical domains of AgNP genesis: chemical, physical, and biological synthesis. Each possesses its distinct form of magic for controlling size, shape, and scalability—key factors necessary for achieving expertise in the practical application of nanoparticles. The story unravels, describing the careful coordination of chemical reduction, the environmentally sensitive charm of green synthesis utilizing plant extracts, and the precise accuracy of physical techniques. AgNPs are highly praised in the field of healthcare for their powerful antibacterial characteristics. These little warriors display a wide-ranging attack against bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. Their critical significance in combating hospital-acquired and surgical site infections is highly praised, serving as a beacon of hope in the fight against the challenging problem of antibiotic resistance. In addition to their ability to kill bacteria, AgNPs are also known to promote tissue regeneration and facilitate wound healing. The field of cancer has also observed the adaptability of AgNPs. The review documents their role as innovative carriers of drugs, specifically designed to target cancer cells with accuracy, minimizing harm to healthy tissues. Additionally, it explores their potential as cancer therapy or anticancer agents capable of disrupting the growth of tumors. In the food business, AgNPs are utilized to enhance the durability of packing materials and coatings by infusing them with their bactericidal properties. This results in improved food safety measures and a significant increase in the duration that products can be stored, thereby tackling the crucial issue of food preservation. This academic analysis recognizes the many difficulties that come with the creation and incorporation of AgNPs. This statement pertains to the evaluation of environmental factors and the effort to enhance synthetic processes. The review predicts future academic pursuits, envisioning progress that will enhance the usefulness of AgNPs and increase their importance from being new to becoming essential within the realms of science and industry. Besides, AgNPs are not only a subject of scholarly interest but also a crucial component in the continuous effort to tackle some of the most urgent health and conservation concerns of contemporary society. This review aims to explore the complex process of AgNP synthesis and highlight their numerous uses, with a special focus on their growing importance in the healthcare and food business sectors. This review invites the scientific community to explore the extensive possibilities of AgNPs in order to fully understand and utilize their potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Micro/Nanomaterials Based Drug Delivery Systems for Theranostic Applications)
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Planned Papers

The below list represents only planned manuscripts. Some of these manuscripts have not been received by the Editorial Office yet. Papers submitted to MDPI journals are subject to peer-review.

Title: Research Progress on Using Inorganic Nanomaterials to Enhance the Efficacy of Drug Therapy for Chronic Mountain Sickness
Author: Qin
Highlights: 1. Nanoparticles (NPs) are versatile drug carriers developed to transport various therapeutic agents into cells. 2. NPs can be utilized to enhance the efficacy of drug therapy for chronic mountain sickness (CMS). 3. Further research is still needed to translate the application of NPs to the clinical management of CMS.

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