Pharmaceutics

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18 pages, 10969 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Porous Chitosan/Hydroxyapatite Composite Microspheres for Vancomycin Loading and Releasing

by Meng-Ying Wu, Yi-Ting Kuo, I-Fang Kao and Shiow-Kang Yen

Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(6), 730; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16060730 - 29 May 2024

Viewed by 872

Abstract

Porous chitosan/hydroxyapatite (Chi-HAp) composite microspheres were prepared in an aqueous solution containing chitosan, calcium nitrate, and ammonium dihydrogen phosphate by using a hydrothermal method at various temperatures. The investigation indicated that temperature significantly impacted the final product’s appearance. Hydroxyapatite (HAp) coupled with dicalcium [...] Read more.

Porous chitosan/hydroxyapatite (Chi-HAp) composite microspheres were prepared in an aqueous solution containing chitosan, calcium nitrate, and ammonium dihydrogen phosphate by using a hydrothermal method at various temperatures. The investigation indicated that temperature significantly impacted the final product’s appearance. Hydroxyapatite (HAp) coupled with dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD) flakes were obviously found at 65 and 70 °C, while the latter gradually disappeared at higher temperatures. Conversely, synthesis at 90 °C led to smaller particle sizes due to the broken chitosan chains. The microspheres synthesized at 75 °C were selected for further analysis, revealing porous structures with specific surface areas of 36.66 m²/g, pores ranging from 3 to 100 nm, and pore volumes of 0.58 cm³/g. Vancomycin (VCM), an antibiotic, was then absorbed on and released from the microspheres derived at 75 °C, with a drug entrapment efficiency of 20% and a release duration exceeding 20 days. The bacteriostatic activity of the VCM/composite microspheres against Staphylococcus aureus increased with the VCM concentration and immersion time, revealing a stable inhibition zone diameter of approximately 4.3 mm from 24 to 96 h, and this indicated the retained stability and efficacy of the VCM during the encapsulating process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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25 pages, 8238 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New Nanostructured Materials Based on Mesoporous Silica Loaded with Ru(II)/Ru(III) Complexes with Anticancer and Antimicrobial Properties

by Gabriela Marinescu, Daniela C. Culita, Teodora Mocanu, Raul-Augustin Mitran, Simona Petrescu, Miruna S. Stan, Mariana C. Chifiriuc and Marcela Popa

Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(5), 1458; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15051458 - 10 May 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2288

Abstract

A new series of nanostructured materials was obtained by functionalization of SBA-15 mesoporous silica with Ru(II) and Ru(III) complexes bearing Schiff base ligands derived from salicylaldehyde and various amines (1,2-diaminocyclohexane, 1,2-phenylenediamine, ethylenediamine, 1,3-diamino-2-propanol, N,N-dimethylethylenediamine, 2-aminomethyl-pyridine, and 2-(2-aminoethyl)-pyridine). The incorporation of ruthenium complexes into [...] Read more.

A new series of nanostructured materials was obtained by functionalization of SBA-15 mesoporous silica with Ru(II) and Ru(III) complexes bearing Schiff base ligands derived from salicylaldehyde and various amines (1,2-diaminocyclohexane, 1,2-phenylenediamine, ethylenediamine, 1,3-diamino-2-propanol, N,N-dimethylethylenediamine, 2-aminomethyl-pyridine, and 2-(2-aminoethyl)-pyridine). The incorporation of ruthenium complexes into the porous structure of SBA-15 and the structural, morphological, and textural features of the resulting nanostructured materials were investigated by FTIR, XPS, TG/DTA, zeta potential, SEM, and N₂ physisorption. The ruthenium complex-loaded SBA-15 silica samples were tested against A549 lung tumor cells and MRC-5 normal lung fibroblasts. A dose-dependent effect was observed, with the highest antitumoral efficiency being recorded for the material containing [Ru(Salen)(PPh₃)Cl] (50%/90% decrease in the A549 cells’ viability at a concentration of 70 μg/mL/200 μg/mL after 24 h incubation). The other hybrid materials have also shown good cytotoxicity against cancer cells, depending on the ligand included in the ruthenium complex. The antibacterial assay revealed an inhibitory effect for all samples, the most active being those containing [Ru(Salen)(PPh₃)Cl], [Ru(Saldiam)(PPh₃)Cl], and [Ru(Salaepy)(PPh₃)Cl], especially against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis Gram-positive strains. In conclusion, these nanostructured hybrid materials could represent valuable tools for the development of multi-pharmacologically active compounds with antiproliferative, antibacterial, and antibiofilm activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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17 pages, 3431 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gold Nanorod-Incorporated Halloysite Nanotubes Functionalized with Antibody for Superior Antibacterial Photothermal Treatment

by Ofer Prinz Setter, Iser Snoyman, Ghazal Shalash and Ester Segal

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(10), 2094; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14102094 - 30 Sep 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2438

Abstract

The global spread of antibiotic-resistant strains, and the need to protect the microflora from non-specific antibiotics require more effective and selective alternatives. In this work, we demonstrate for the first time a superior antibacterial photothermal effect of plasmonic gold nanorods (AuNRs) via their [...] Read more.

The global spread of antibiotic-resistant strains, and the need to protect the microflora from non-specific antibiotics require more effective and selective alternatives. In this work, we demonstrate for the first time a superior antibacterial photothermal effect of plasmonic gold nanorods (AuNRs) via their incorporation onto natural clay halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), which were functionalized with anti-E. coli antibodies (Ab-HNTs). AuNRs were incorporated onto the Ab-HNTs through a facile freeze–thaw cycle, and antibody integrity following the incorporation was confirmed via infrared spectroscopy and fluorescence immunolabeling. The incorporation efficiency was studied using UV-Vis absorption and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Mixtures of E. coli and AuNR-Ab-HNTs hybrids or free AuNRs were irradiated with an 808 nm laser at 3–4 W cm⁻², and the resulting photothermal antibacterial activity was measured via plate count. The irradiated AuNR-Ab-HNTs hybrids exerted an 8-fold higher antibacterial effect compared to free AuNR under 3.5 W cm⁻²; whereas the latter induced a 6 °C-higher temperature elevation. No significant antibacterial activity was observed for the AuNR-Ab-HNTs hybrid against non-target bacteria species (Serratia marcescens and Staphylococcus epidermidis). These findings are ascribed to the localization of the photothermal ablation due to the binding of the antibody-functionalized clay to its target bacteria, as supported through TEM imaging. In the future, the HNTs-based selective carriers presented herein could be tailored with other antibacterial nanoparticles or against another microorganism via the facile adjustment of the immobilized antibody. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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23 pages, 4487 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mesoporous Bioactive Glasses Incorporated into an Injectable Thermosensitive Hydrogel for Sustained Co-Release of Sr²⁺ Ions and N-Acetylcysteine

by Carlotta Pontremoli, Monica Boffito, Rossella Laurano, Giorgio Iviglia, Elisa Torre, Clara Cassinelli, Marco Morra, Gianluca Ciardelli, Chiara Vitale-Brovarone and Sonia Fiorilli

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(9), 1890; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14091890 - 7 Sep 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2214

Abstract

An injectable delivery platform for promoting delayed bone healing has been developed by combining a thermosensitive polyurethane-based hydrogel with strontium-substituted mesoporous bioactive glasses (MBG_Sr) for the long-term and localized co-delivery of pro-osteogenic Sr²⁺ ions and an osteogenesis-enhancing molecule, N-Acetylcysteine (NAC). The [...] Read more.

An injectable delivery platform for promoting delayed bone healing has been developed by combining a thermosensitive polyurethane-based hydrogel with strontium-substituted mesoporous bioactive glasses (MBG_Sr) for the long-term and localized co-delivery of pro-osteogenic Sr²⁺ ions and an osteogenesis-enhancing molecule, N-Acetylcysteine (NAC). The incorporation of MBG_Sr microparticles, with a final concentration of 20 mg/mL, did not alter the overall properties of the thermosensitive hydrogel, in terms of sol-to-gel transition at a physiological-like temperature, gelation time, injectability and stability in aqueous environment at 37 °C. In particular, the hydrogel formulations (15% w/v polymer concentration) showed fast gelation in physiological conditions (1 mL underwent complete sol-to-gel transition within 3–5 min at 37 °C) and injectability in a wide range of temperatures (5–37 °C) through different needles (inner diameter in the range 0.4–1.6 mm). In addition, the MBG_Sr embedded into the hydrogel retained their full biocompatibility, and the released concentration of Sr²⁺ ions were effective in promoting the overexpression of pro-osteogenic genes from SAOS2 osteoblast-like cells. Finally, when incorporated into the hydrogel, the MBG_Sr loaded with NAC maintained their release properties, showing a sustained ion/drug co-delivery along 7 days, at variance with the MBG particles as such, showing a strong burst release in the first hours of soaking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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16 pages, 2668 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Anti-Obesity Effect of Porous Silica Is Dependent on Pore Nanostructure, Particle Size, and Surface Chemistry in an In Vitro Digestion Model

by JingYi Chen, John P. Hanrahan, Joe McGrath, Melissa A. Courtney, Clive A. Prestidge and Paul Joyce

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(9), 1813; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14091813 - 29 Aug 2022

Viewed by 8734

Abstract

The potential for porous silica to serve as an effective anti-obesity agent has received growing attention in recent years. However, neither the exact pharmacological mechanism nor the fundamental physicochemical properties of porous silica that drive its weight-lowering effect are well understood. Subsequently, in [...] Read more.

The potential for porous silica to serve as an effective anti-obesity agent has received growing attention in recent years. However, neither the exact pharmacological mechanism nor the fundamental physicochemical properties of porous silica that drive its weight-lowering effect are well understood. Subsequently, in this study, an advanced in vitro digestion model capable of monitoring lipid and carbohydrate digestion was employed to elucidate the effect of porous silica supplementation on digestive enzyme activities. A suite of porous silica samples with contrasting physicochemical properties was investigated, where it was established that the inhibitory action of porous silica on digestive enzyme functionality was strongly dependent on porous nanostructure, particle size and morphology, and surface chemistry. Insights derived from this study validate the capacity of porous silica to impede the digestive processes mediated by pancreatic lipase and α-amylase within the gastrointestinal tract, while the subtle interplay between porous nanostructure and enzyme inhibition indicates that the anti-obesity effect can be optimized through strategic particle design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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16 pages, 5369 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cerium-Containing Mesoporous Bioactive Glasses (MBGs)-Derived Scaffolds with Drug Delivery Capability for Potential Tissue Engineering Applications

by Irina Atkinson, Ana Maria Seciu-Grama, Simona Petrescu, Daniela Culita, Oana Catalina Mocioiu, Mariana Voicescu, Raul-Augustin Mitran, Daniel Lincu, Ana-Maria Prelipcean and Oana Craciunescu

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(6), 1169; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14061169 - 30 May 2022

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 2551

Abstract

Finding innovative solutions to improve the lives of people affected by trauma, bone disease, or aging continues to be a challenge worldwide. Tissue engineering is the most rapidly growing area in the domain of biomaterials. Cerium-containing MBG-derived biomaterials scaffolds were synthesized using polymethyl [...] Read more.

Finding innovative solutions to improve the lives of people affected by trauma, bone disease, or aging continues to be a challenge worldwide. Tissue engineering is the most rapidly growing area in the domain of biomaterials. Cerium-containing MBG-derived biomaterials scaffolds were synthesized using polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) as a sacrificial template. The obtained scaffolds were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The Ce⁴⁺/Ce³⁺ ratio in the scaffolds was estimated. In vitro testing revealed good cytocompatibility of the investigated scaffolds in mouse fibroblast cell line (NCTC clone L929). The results obtained regarding bioactivity, antibacterial activity, and controlled drug delivery functions recommend these scaffolds as potential candidates for bone tissue engineering applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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19 pages, 4394 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficient Delivery of Curcumin by Alginate Oligosaccharide Coated Aminated Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles and In Vitro Anticancer Activity against Colon Cancer Cells

by Chennan Liu, Fangyuan Jiang, Zifeng Xing, Lihong Fan, Yuan Li, Shaoning Wang, Junhong Ling and Xiao-Kun Ouyang

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(6), 1166; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14061166 - 30 May 2022

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 3337

Abstract

We designed and synthesized aminated mesoporous silica (MSN-NH₂), and functionally grafted alginate oligosaccharides (AOS) on its surface to get MSN-NH₂-AOS nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle for the fat-soluble model drug curcumin (Cur). Dynamic light scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray [...] Read more.

We designed and synthesized aminated mesoporous silica (MSN-NH₂), and functionally grafted alginate oligosaccharides (AOS) on its surface to get MSN-NH₂-AOS nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle for the fat-soluble model drug curcumin (Cur). Dynamic light scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize the structure and performance of MSN-NH₂-AOS. The nano-MSN-NH₂-AOS preparation process was optimized, and the drug loading and encapsulation efficiencies of nano-MSN-NH₂-AOS were investigated. The encapsulation efficiency of the MSN-NH₂-Cur-AOS nanoparticles was up to 91.24 ± 1.23%. The pH-sensitive AOS coating made the total release rate of Cur only 28.9 ± 1.6% under neutral conditions and 67.5 ± 1% under acidic conditions. According to the results of in vitro anti-tumor studies conducted by MTT and cellular uptake assays, the MSN-NH₂-Cur-AOS nanoparticles were more easily absorbed by colon cancer cells than free Cur, achieving a high tumor cell targeting efficiency. Moreover, when the concentration of Cur reached 50 μg/mL, MSN-NH₂-Cur-AOS nanoparticles showed strong cytotoxicity against tumor cells, indicating that MSN-NH₂-AOS might be a promising tool as a novel fat-soluble anticancer drug carrier. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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17 pages, 3895 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combining Mg–Zn–Ca Bulk Metallic Glass with a Mesoporous Silica Nanocomposite for Bone Tissue Engineering

by Yun Shin Chu, Pei-Chun Wong, Jason Shian-Ching Jang, Chih-Hwa Chen and Si-Han Wu

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(5), 1078; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14051078 - 17 May 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3003

Abstract

Mg–Zn–Ca bulk metallic glass (BMG) is a promising orthopedic fixation implant because of its biodegradable and biocompatible properties. Structural supporting bone implants with osteoinduction properties for effective bone regeneration have been highly desired in recent years. Osteogenic growth peptide (OGP) can increase the [...] Read more.

Mg–Zn–Ca bulk metallic glass (BMG) is a promising orthopedic fixation implant because of its biodegradable and biocompatible properties. Structural supporting bone implants with osteoinduction properties for effective bone regeneration have been highly desired in recent years. Osteogenic growth peptide (OGP) can increase the proliferation and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and enhance the mineralization of osteoblast cells. However, the short half-life and non-specificity to target areas limit applications of OGP. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as nanocarriers possess excellent properties, such as easy surface modification, superior targeting efficiency, and high loading capacity of drugs or proteins. Accordingly, we propose a system of combining the OGP-containing MSNs with Mg–Zn–Ca BMG materials to promote bone regeneration. In this work, we conjugated cysteine-containing OGP (cgOGP, 16 a.a.) to interior walls of channels in MSNs and maintained the dispersity of MSNs via PEGylation. An in vitro study showed that metal ions released from Mg–Zn–Ca BMG promoted cell proliferation and migration and elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralization. On treating cells with both BMG ion-containing Minimum Essential Medium Eagle-alpha modification (α-MEM) and OGP-conjugated MSNs, enhanced focal adhesion turnover and promoted differentiation were observed. Hematological analyses showed the biocompatible nature of this BMG/nanocomposite system. In addition, in vivo micro-computed tomographic and histological observations revealed that our system stimulated osteogenesis and new bone formation around the implant site. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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20 pages, 5842 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Formulation and Biological Evaluation of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Loaded with Combinations of Sortase A Inhibitors and Antimicrobial Peptides

by Sitah Alharthi, Zyta M. Ziora, Taskeen Janjua, Amirali Popat and Peter M. Moyle

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(5), 986; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14050986 - 4 May 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2961

Abstract

This study aimed to develop synergistic therapies to treat superbug infections through the encapsulation of sortase A inhibitors (SrtAIs; trans-chalcone (TC), curcumin (CUR), quercetin (QC), or berberine chloride (BR)) into MCM-41 mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) or a phosphonate-modified analogue (MCM-41-PO₃⁻ [...] Read more.

This study aimed to develop synergistic therapies to treat superbug infections through the encapsulation of sortase A inhibitors (SrtAIs; trans-chalcone (TC), curcumin (CUR), quercetin (QC), or berberine chloride (BR)) into MCM-41 mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) or a phosphonate-modified analogue (MCM-41-PO₃⁻) to overcome their poor aqueous solubility. A resazurin-modified minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and checkerboard assays, to measure SrtAI synergy in combination with leading antimicrobial peptides (AMPs; pexiganan (PEX), indolicidin (INDO), and [I5, R8] mastoparan (MASTO)), were determined against methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant (MRSA) Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results demonstrated that the MCM-41 and MCM-41-PO₃⁻ formulations significantly improved the aqueous solubility of each SrtAI. The MICs for SrtAI/MCM-41-PO₃⁻ formulations were lower compared to the SrtAI/MCM-41 formulations against tested bacterial strains, except for the cases of BR/MCM-41 and QC/MCM-41 against P. aeruginosa. Furthermore, the following combinations demonstrated synergy: PEX with TC/MCM-41 (against all strains) or TC/MCM-41-PO₃⁻ (against all strains except P. aeruginosa); PEX with BR/MCM-41 or BR/MCM-41-PO₃⁻ (against MSSA and MRSA); INDO with QC/MCM-41 or QC/MCM-41-PO₃⁻ (against MRSA); and MASTO with CUR/MCM-41 (against E. coli). These combinations also reduced each components’ toxicity against human embryonic kidney cells. In conclusion, MCM-41 MSNs provide a platform to enhance SrtAI solubility and demonstrated antimicrobial synergy with AMPs and reduced toxicity, providing novel superbug treatment opportunities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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23 pages, 5651 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Antioxidant Effects of the Anti-Inflammatory Compound Probucol When Released from Mesoporous Silica Particles

by Michael Lau, Benjamin Sealy, Valery Combes, Marco Morsch and Alfonso E. Garcia-Bennett

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(3), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14030502 - 24 Feb 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2426

Abstract

Brain endothelial cells mediate the function and integrity of the blood brain barrier (BBB) by restricting its permeability and exposure to potential toxins. However, these cells are highly susceptible to cellular damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. Consequent disruption to the integrity [...] Read more.

Brain endothelial cells mediate the function and integrity of the blood brain barrier (BBB) by restricting its permeability and exposure to potential toxins. However, these cells are highly susceptible to cellular damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. Consequent disruption to the integrity of the BBB can lead to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Drug compounds with antioxidant and/or anti-inflammatory properties therefore have the potential to preserve the structure and function of the BBB. In this work, we demonstrate the enhanced antioxidative effects of the compound probucol when loaded within mesoporous silica particles (MSP) in vitro and in vivo zebrafish models. The dissolution kinetics were significantly enhanced when released from MSPs. An increased reduction in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme activity and prostaglandin E₂ production was measured in human brain endothelial cells treated with probucol-loaded MSPs. Furthermore, the LPS-induced permeability across an endothelial cell monolayer by paracellular and transcytotic mechanisms was also reduced at lower concentrations compared to the antioxidant ascorbic acid. Zebrafish pre-treated with probucol-loaded MSPs reduced hydrogen peroxide-induced ROS to control levels after 24-h incubation, at significantly lower concentrations than ascorbic acid. We provide compelling evidence that the encapsulation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds within MSPs can enhance their release, enhance their antioxidant effects properties, and open new avenues for the accelerated suppression of neuroinflammation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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Review

Jump to: Research

18 pages, 1884 KiB

Open AccessReview

Metal-Organic Framework-Based Nanomedicines for the Treatment of Intracellular Bacterial Infections

by Xiaoli Qi, Ningfei Shen, Aya Al Othman, Alexandre Mezentsev, Anastasia Permyakova, Zhihao Yu, Mathilde Lepoitevin, Christian Serre and Mikhail Durymanov

Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(5), 1521; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15051521 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3733

Abstract

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a highly versatile class of ordered porous materials, which hold great promise for different biomedical applications, including antibacterial therapy. In light of the antibacterial effects, these nanomaterials can be attractive for several reasons. First, MOFs exhibit a high loading [...] Read more.

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a highly versatile class of ordered porous materials, which hold great promise for different biomedical applications, including antibacterial therapy. In light of the antibacterial effects, these nanomaterials can be attractive for several reasons. First, MOFs exhibit a high loading capacity for numerous antibacterial drugs, including antibiotics, photosensitizers, and/or photothermal molecules. The inherent micro- or meso-porosity of MOF structures enables their use as nanocarriers for simultaneous encapsulation of multiple drugs resulting in a combined therapeutic effect. In addition to being encapsulated into an MOF’s pores, antibacterial agents can sometimes be directly incorporated into an MOF skeleton as organic linkers. Next, MOFs contain coordinated metal ions in their structure. Incorporation of Fe^2/3+, Cu²⁺, Zn²⁺, Co²⁺, and Ag⁺ can significantly increase the innate cytotoxicity of these materials for bacteria and cause a synergistic effect. Finally, abundance of functional groups enables modifying the external surface of MOF particles with stealth coating and ligand moieties for improved drug delivery. To date, there are a number of MOF-based nanomedicines available for the treatment of bacterial infections. This review is focused on biomedical consideration of MOF nano-formulations designed for the therapy of intracellular infections such as Staphylococcus aureus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Chlamydia trachomatis. Increasing knowledge about the ability of MOF nanoparticles to accumulate in a pathogen intracellular niche in the host cells provides an excellent opportunity to use MOF-based nanomedicines for the eradication of persistent infections. Here, we discuss advantages and current limitations of MOFs, their clinical significance, and their prospects for the treatment of the mentioned infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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26 pages, 2536 KiB

Open AccessReview

Prosthetic Joint Infections: Biofilm Formation, Management, and the Potential of Mesoporous Bioactive Glass as a New Treatment Option

by Dana Almasri and Yaser Dahman

Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(5), 1401; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15051401 - 3 May 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3687

Abstract

Infection of prosthetic joints is one of the biggest challenges to a successful replacement of the joint after a total joint arthroplasty. Such infections are caused by bacterial colonies that are difficult to treat by systemic delivery of antibiotics. Local delivery of antibiotics [...] Read more.

Infection of prosthetic joints is one of the biggest challenges to a successful replacement of the joint after a total joint arthroplasty. Such infections are caused by bacterial colonies that are difficult to treat by systemic delivery of antibiotics. Local delivery of antibiotics can prove to be the solution to such a devastating outcome that impacts patients’ health and ability to regain function in their joints as well as costs the healthcare system millions of dollars every year. This review will discuss prosthetic joint infections in detail with a focus on the development, management, and diagnosis of the infections. Surgeons often opt to use polymethacrylate cement locally to deliver antibiotics; however, due to the rapid release of antibiotics, non-biodegradability, and high chance of reinfection, the search for alternatives is in high demand. One of the most researched alternatives to current treatments is the use of biodegradable and highly compatible bioactive glass. The novelty of this review lies in its focus on mesoporous bioactive glass as a potential alternative to current treatments for prosthetic joint infection. Mesoporous bioactive glass is the focus of this review because it has a higher capacity to deliver biomolecules, stimulate bone growth, and treat infections after prosthetic joint replacement surgeries. The review also examines different synthesis methods, compositions, and properties of mesoporous bioactive glass, highlighting its potential as a biomaterial for the treatment of joint infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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24 pages, 2869 KiB

Open AccessReview

Insight into Potential Biomedical Application of Mesoporous Materials

by Irene Alexandra Spiridon, Irina Draga Căruntu, Iuliana Spiridon and Radu Brăescu

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(11), 2382; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14112382 - 4 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2309

Abstract

The physicochemical properties of many drugs have a decisive impact on their bioavailability, as well as the pharmacokinetic efficiency in various disease therapeutics. That is why mesoporous materials have attracted a special interest in the drug delivery field, facilitating the loading of drugs [...] Read more.

The physicochemical properties of many drugs have a decisive impact on their bioavailability, as well as the pharmacokinetic efficiency in various disease therapeutics. That is why mesoporous materials have attracted a special interest in the drug delivery field, facilitating the loading of drugs into their pores due to their high surface area and porosity. The interfacial interactions established with drug molecules represent the driving force for efficient drug loading and controlled release kinetics. Moreover, these materials offer an optimal design for implantable local-delivery devices or for improving the accuracy of imaging techniques in clinical diagnosis. Their use is validated by improvements in therapeutic outcome and prevention of side effects. This review discusses the role of mesoporous materials in different biomedical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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19 pages, 5046 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mesoporous Nanoparticles for Diagnosis and Treatment of Liver Cancer in the Era of Precise Medicine

by Han Wu, Ming-Da Wang, Jia-Qi Zhu, Zhen-Li Li, Wan-Yin Wang, Li-Hui Gu, Feng Shen and Tian Yang

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(9), 1760; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14091760 - 23 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2925

Abstract

Primary liver cancer is the seventh-most-common cancer worldwide and the fourth-leading cause of cancer mortality. In the current era of precision medicine, the diagnosis and management of liver cancer are full of challenges and prospects. Mesoporous nanoparticles are often designed as specific carriers [...] Read more.

Primary liver cancer is the seventh-most-common cancer worldwide and the fourth-leading cause of cancer mortality. In the current era of precision medicine, the diagnosis and management of liver cancer are full of challenges and prospects. Mesoporous nanoparticles are often designed as specific carriers of drugs and imaging agents because of their special morphology and physical and chemical properties. In recent years, the design of the elemental composition and morphology of mesoporous nanoparticles have greatly improved their drug-loading efficiency, biocompatibility and biodegradability. Especially in the field of primary liver cancer, mesoporous nanoparticles have been modified as highly tumor-specific imaging contrast agents and targeting therapeutic medicine. Various generations of complexes and structures have been determined for the complicated clinical management requirements. In this review, we summarize these advanced mesoporous designs in the different diagnostic and therapeutic fields of liver cancer and discuss the relevant advantages and disadvantages of transforming applications. By comparing the material properties, drug-delivery characteristics and application methods of different kinds of mesoporous materials in liver cancer, we try to help determine the most suitable drug carriers and information media for future clinical trials. We hope to improve the fabrication of biomedical mesoporous nanoparticles and provide direct evidence for specific cancer management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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27 pages, 2969 KiB

Open AccessReview

Application of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles in Cancer Therapy and Delivery of Repurposed Anthelmintics for Cancer Therapy

by Maedeh Koohi Moftakhari Esfahani, Seyed Ebrahim Alavi, Peter J. Cabot, Nazrul Islam and Emad L. Izake

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(8), 1579; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14081579 - 29 Jul 2022

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 5812

Abstract

This review focuses on the biomedical application of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), mainly focusing on the therapeutic application of MSNs for cancer treatment and specifically on overcoming the challenges of currently available anthelmintics (e.g., low water solubility) as repurposed drugs for cancer treatment. [...] Read more.

This review focuses on the biomedical application of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), mainly focusing on the therapeutic application of MSNs for cancer treatment and specifically on overcoming the challenges of currently available anthelmintics (e.g., low water solubility) as repurposed drugs for cancer treatment. MSNs, due to their promising features, such as tunable pore size and volume, ability to control the drug release, and ability to convert the crystalline state of drugs to an amorphous state, are appropriate carriers for drug delivery with the improved solubility of hydrophobic drugs. The biomedical applications of MSNs can be further improved by the development of MSN-based multimodal anticancer therapeutics (e.g., photosensitizer-, photothermal-, and chemotherapeutics-modified MSNs) and chemical modifications, such as poly ethyleneglycol (PEG)ylation. In this review, various applications of MSNs (photodynamic and sonodynamic therapies, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, gene therapy, immunotherapy) and, in particular, as the carrier of anthelmintics for cancer therapy have been discussed. Additionally, the issues related to the safety of these nanoparticles have been deeply discussed. According to the findings of this literature review, the applications of MSN nanosystems for cancer therapy are a promising approach to improving the efficacy of the diagnostic and chemotherapeutic agents. Moreover, the MSN systems seem to be an efficient strategy to further help to decrease treatment costs by reducing the drug dose. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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29 pages, 1895 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mesoporous Materials as Elements of Modern Drug Delivery Systems for Anti-Inflammatory Agents: A Review of Recent Achievements

by Michał Moritz and Małgorzata Geszke-Moritz

Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(8), 1542; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14081542 - 25 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2998

Abstract

Interest in the use of mesoporous materials as carriers of medicinal substances has been steadily increasing in the last two decades. Mesoporous carriers have application in the preparation of delivery systems for drugs from various therapeutic groups; however, their use as the carriers [...] Read more.

Interest in the use of mesoporous materials as carriers of medicinal substances has been steadily increasing in the last two decades. Mesoporous carriers have application in the preparation of delivery systems for drugs from various therapeutic groups; however, their use as the carriers of anti-inflammatory agents is particularly marked. This review article, with about 170 references, summarizes the achievements in the application of mesoporous materials as the carriers of anti-inflammatory agents in recent years. This article will discuss a variety of mesoporous carriers as well as the characteristics of their porous structure that determine further use of these materials in the field of medical applications. Special attention will be paid to the progress observed in the construction of stimuli-responsive drug carriers and systems providing site-specific drug delivery. Subsequently, a review of the literature devoted to the use of mesoporous matrices as the carriers of anti-inflammatory drugs was carried out. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Mesoporous Materials for Biomedical Application)

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