Impact of Nanobiotechnology (Nanomedicine) on the Future of Medicine: The Road toward Precision Medicine

A special issue of Biomedicines (ISSN 2227-9059). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomedical Materials and Nanomedicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2019) | Viewed by 37604

Special Issue Editor

1. Retired, The Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 1 Discovery Drive (Room 238), Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
2. Vascular Vision Pharmaceuticals Co., Rensselaer Polytechnic Park, Troy, NY 12180, USA
Interests: pharmaceuticals; biopharmaceuticals and diagnostics; nanomedicine; cardiovascular diseases; neurological disorders; hematology and oncology; biosimilar and nanosimilar; angiogenesis; inflammation; thrombosis; integrin and cell adhesion molecules; target identification; molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways; preclinical; clinical; marketing and post marketing studies; regulatory and ethical issues
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Evidence from the scientific and medical communities has demonstrated the potential impact of nanotechnology/biotechnology and nanomedicine on the improved management of cancer and other disorders, in terms of early diagnosis and targeted therapy, leading to significant progress in accelerating precision medicine applications. The utilization of nanobiotechnology for the development of novel targeted nano-carrier systems has the potential to offer improved biomedicines (small molecule, peptide, and genes) delivery through improved pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety profiles. Targeted delivery of drug-incorporated nanoparticles, through conjugation of tumor-specific cell surface markers, such as tumor-specific antibodies or ligands, could enhance the efficacy and safety of the anti-cancer drug. Additionally, multifunctional characteristics of the Nano-carrier system would allow for simultaneous imaging of various types of cancers/microenvironment, targeted drug delivery (Therapeutics) along with monitoring (Thera nostics).

The scope of this Special Issue is to cover recent progress in nanotechnology/biotechnology as it relates to nanomedicine, targeted delivery of medicines and biomedicines, diagnostics. A key aim is to bring latest advances of various nanomedicine approaches for the detection and treatment of various types of organ specific diseases, vascular targeting, vaccine development, and the overall impact of Nanomedicine on advancing precision medicines. Additionally, this issue aims to cover nano nutraceuticals, nano cosmetics using single or combination of various bioactive compounds derived from natural products and impact on diseases prevention.

Prof. Dr. Shaker Mousa
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • Nanotechnology
  • Biotechnology
  • Nanomedicines
  • Biomedicines
  • Precision medicine
  • Nano-pharmaceuticals
  • Nano-nutraceuticals
  • Nano-cosmetics
  • Imaging
  • Diagnostics
  • Theranostics
  • Disease prevention
  • Treatment, Early Detection

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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9 pages, 1015 KiB  
Article
Aflibercept Nanoformulation Inhibits VEGF Expression in Ocular In Vitro Model: A Preliminary Report
by Shannon J. Kelly, Anjali Hirani, Vishal Shahidadpury, Aum Solanki, Kathleen Halasz, Sheeba Varghese Gupta, Brian Madow and Vijaykumar Sutariya
Biomedicines 2018, 6(3), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines6030092 - 11 Sep 2018
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5069
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States, affecting approximately 11 million patients. AMD is caused primarily by an upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In recent years, aflibercept injections have been used to [...] Read more.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States, affecting approximately 11 million patients. AMD is caused primarily by an upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In recent years, aflibercept injections have been used to combat VEGF. However, this treatment requires frequent intravitreal injections, leading to low patient compliance and several adverse side effects including scarring, increased intraocular pressure, and retinal detachment. Polymeric nanoparticles have demonstrated the ability to deliver a sustained release of drug, thereby reducing the necessary injection frequency. Aflibercept (AFL) was encapsulated in poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) via double emulsion diffusion. Scanning electron microscopy showed the NPs were spherical and dynamic light scattering demonstrated that they were uniformly distributed (PDI < 1). The encapsulation efficiency and drug loading were 75.76% and 7.76% respectively. In vitro release studies showed a sustained release of drug; 75% of drug was released by the NPs in seven days compared to the full payload released in 24 h by the AFL solution. Future ocular in vivo studies are needed to confirm the biological effects of the NPs. Preliminary studies of the proposed aflibercept NPs demonstrated high encapsulation efficiency, a sustained drug release profile, and ideal physical characteristics for AMD treatment. This drug delivery system is an excellent candidate for further characterization using an ocular neovascularization in vivo model. Full article
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15 pages, 10658 KiB  
Article
Assisted Tip Sonication Approach for Graphene Synthesis in Aqueous Dispersion
by Ahmed F. Ghanem and Mona H. Abdel Rehim
Biomedicines 2018, 6(2), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines6020063 - 28 May 2018
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5918
Abstract
Graphene (G) is a newcomer material that holds promising properties for many applications. The production of high quality G with a good yield is a long-standing goal for many researchers. This work emphasizes synthesis of dispersed graphene nanoplatelets (DGP) through aqueous dispersion technique [...] Read more.
Graphene (G) is a newcomer material that holds promising properties for many applications. The production of high quality G with a good yield is a long-standing goal for many researchers. This work emphasizes synthesis of dispersed graphene nanoplatelets (DGP) through aqueous dispersion technique in surfactant/water solution with the aid of tip sonication. A chemical method was also used to prepare graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) for comparison. Elemental analysis revealed the C:O ratio to be 12:1 for DGP but much lower for other graphene structures. Optical characterization of DGP, GO and RGO with UV and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the ideal structure of DGP. Moreover, X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed the amorphous structure of DGP. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) imaging showed that DGP was composed of a few flat layers, unlike the wrinkled and partially bent multilayered G. Topological study of the DGP surface with scanning electron microscope (SEM) depicted its rough surface with (ra) value of 35 nm, as revealed using an atomic force microscope (AFM). Electrochemical measurements confirmed the higher conductivity of DGP over graphene prepared by chemical method due to lack of structural defects. Its perfect structure facilitates the mobility of charge carriers that makes it preferable in optoelectronic applications. Full article
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6690 KiB  
Article
Comparative Therapeutic Effects of Plant-Extract Synthesized and Traditionally Synthesized Gold Nanoparticles on Alcohol-Induced Inflammatory Activity in SH-SY5Y Cells In Vitro
by Ashok K. Singh
Biomedicines 2017, 5(4), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines5040070 - 15 Dec 2017
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4486
Abstract
The present study describes potential beneficial and adverse effects of plant-extract synthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on ethanol toxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. Although kudzu root extract (K), edible-gum extract (G), alone or in combination (KG), reduced Au3+ into AuNPs, the extract’s composition and [...] Read more.
The present study describes potential beneficial and adverse effects of plant-extract synthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on ethanol toxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. Although kudzu root extract (K), edible-gum extract (G), alone or in combination (KG), reduced Au3+ into AuNPs, the extract’s composition and the reaction temperature determined their size (AuNPKG(90<50<37) << AuNPK (90,50<37) < AuNPG (90<50); the subscript KG, K, or G is extract identification and numerical vales are reaction temperature in Celsius) and biological properties (AuNPKG (90,50>37) << AuNPK (90,50>37) < AuNPG (90,50)). The surface of each AuNP contained the extract’s active ingredients, that were analyzed and confirmed using laser desorption ionization (LDI)) and low-matrix laser desorption-ionization (LMALDI). AuNPKG-50 was (i) least toxic to SH-SY5Y cells, but most effective in suppressing the adverse effects of ethanol on SH-SY5Y cells, and (ii) more effective than a combination of free kudzu and gum extracts. The beneficial and adverse effects of AuNPs may have been modified by the formation of proteins corona. This study provides a proof of concept for possible application of plant-extract synthesized AuNPs in mitigating ethanol toxicity. Full article
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Review

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24 pages, 1946 KiB  
Review
Human Clinical Relevance of the Porcine Model of Pseudoallergic Infusion Reactions
by János Szebeni and Raj Bawa
Biomedicines 2020, 8(4), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines8040082 - 08 Apr 2020
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3956
Abstract
Pigs provide a highly sensitive animal model for pseudoallergic infusion reactions, which are mild-to-severe hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) that arise following intravenous administration of certain nanoparticulate drugs (nanomedicines) and other macromolecular structures. This model has been used in research for three decades and was [...] Read more.
Pigs provide a highly sensitive animal model for pseudoallergic infusion reactions, which are mild-to-severe hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) that arise following intravenous administration of certain nanoparticulate drugs (nanomedicines) and other macromolecular structures. This model has been used in research for three decades and was also proposed by regulatory bodies for preclinical assessment of the risk of HSRs in the clinical stages of nano-drug development. However, there are views challenging the human relevance of the model and its utility in preclinical safety evaluation of nanomedicines. The argument challenging the model refers to the “global response” of pulmonary intravascular macrophages (PIM cells) in the lung of pigs, preventing the distinction of reactogenic from non-reactogenic particles, therefore overestimating the risk of HSRs relative to its occurrence in the normal human population. The goal of this review is to present the large body of experimental and clinical evidence negating the “global response” claim, while also showing the concordance of symptoms caused by different reactogenic nanoparticles in pigs and hypersensitive man. Contrary to the model’s demotion, we propose that the above features, together with the high reproducibility of quantifiable physiological endpoints, validate the porcine “complement activation-related pseudoallergy” (CARPA) model for safety evaluations. However, it needs to be kept in mind that the model is a disease model in the context of hypersensitivity to certain nanomedicines. Rather than toxicity screening, its main purpose is specific identification of HSR hazard, also enabling studies on the mechanism and mitigation of potentially serious HSRs. Full article
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12 pages, 933 KiB  
Review
Pathogens and Their Effect on Exosome Biogenesis and Composition
by Leandra B. Jones, Courtnee’ R. Bell, Kartz E. Bibb, Linlin Gu, Mamie T. Coats and Qiana L. Matthews
Biomedicines 2018, 6(3), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines6030079 - 23 Jul 2018
Cited by 55 | Viewed by 7276
Abstract
Exosomes are nanosized membrane microvesicles (30–100 nm) that have the capability to communicate intercellularly and transport cell components (i.e., miRNA, mRNA, proteins and DNA). Exosomes are found in nearly every cell type (i.e., mast cells, dendritic, tumor, and macrophages). There have been many [...] Read more.
Exosomes are nanosized membrane microvesicles (30–100 nm) that have the capability to communicate intercellularly and transport cell components (i.e., miRNA, mRNA, proteins and DNA). Exosomes are found in nearly every cell type (i.e., mast cells, dendritic, tumor, and macrophages). There have been many studies that have shown the importance of exosome function as well as their unique packaging and targeting abilities. These characteristics make exosomes ideal candidates to act as biomarkers and therapeutics for disease. We will discuss the biogenesis, composition, and relationship of exosomes with non-viral microbial infections including gram-negative bacteria, gram-positive bacteria, Leishmania and Trypanosoma cruzi. Full article
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15 pages, 3017 KiB  
Review
The Local Atomic Structure of Colloidal Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Theranostics in Oncology
by Elena Kuchma, Stanislav Kubrin and Alexander Soldatov
Biomedicines 2018, 6(3), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines6030078 - 18 Jul 2018
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5016
Abstract
The paper contains an overview of modern spectroscopic methods for studying the local atomic structure of superparamagnetic nanoparticles based on iron oxide (SPIONs), which are an important class of materials promising for theranostics in oncology. Practically important properties of small and ultra small [...] Read more.
The paper contains an overview of modern spectroscopic methods for studying the local atomic structure of superparamagnetic nanoparticles based on iron oxide (SPIONs), which are an important class of materials promising for theranostics in oncology. Practically important properties of small and ultra small nanoparticles are determined primarily by their shape, size, and features of the local atomic, electronic, and magnetic structures, for the study of which the standard characterization methods developed for macroscopic materials are not optimal. The paper analyzes results of the studies of SPIONs local atomic structure carried out by X-ray absorption spectroscopy at synchrotron radiation sources and Mössbauer spectroscopy during the last decade. Full article
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Other

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13 pages, 1819 KiB  
Perspective
Bioactive Titanium Surfaces: Interactions of Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells of Nano Devices Applied to Dental Practice
by Marco Cicciù, Luca Fiorillo, Alan Scott Herford, Salvatore Crimi, Alberto Bianchi, Cesare D’Amico, Luigi Laino and Gabriele Cervino
Biomedicines 2019, 7(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines7010012 - 12 Feb 2019
Cited by 58 | Viewed by 4588
Abstract
Background: In recent years, many advances have been made in the fields of bioengineering and biotechnology. Many methods have been proposed for the in vitro study of anatomical structures and alloplastic structures. Many steps forward have been made in the field of prosthetics [...] Read more.
Background: In recent years, many advances have been made in the fields of bioengineering and biotechnology. Many methods have been proposed for the in vitro study of anatomical structures and alloplastic structures. Many steps forward have been made in the field of prosthetics and grafts and one of the most debated problems lies in the biomimetics and biocompatibility of the materials used. The contact surfaces between alloplastic material and fabric are under study, and this has meant that the surfaces were significantly improved. To ensure a good contact surface with the cells of our body and be able to respond to an attack by a biofilm or prevent the formation, this is the true gold standard. In the dental field, the study of the surfaces of contact with the bone tissue of the implants is the most debated, starting from the first concepts of osteointegration. Method: The study searched MEDLINE databases from January 2008 to November 2018. We considered all the studies that talk about nanosurface and the biological response of the latter, considering only avant-garde works in this field. Results: The ultimate aim of this study is to point out all the progress made in the field of bioengineering and biotechnologies about nanosurface. Surface studies allow you to have alloplastic materials that integrate better with our body and allow more predictable rehabilitations. Particularly in the field of dental implantology the study of surfaces has allowed us to make huge steps forward in times of rehabilitation. Overcoming this obstacle linked to the time of osseointegration, however, today the real problem seems to be linked to the “pathologies of these surfaces”, or the possible infiltration, and formation of a biofilm, difficult to eliminate, being the implant surface, inert. Conclusions: The results of the present investigation demonstrated how nanotechnologies contribute substantially to the development of new materials in the biomedical field, being able to perform a large number of tests on the surface to advance research. Thanks to 3D technology and to the reconstructions of both the anatomical structures and eventually the alloplastic structures used in rehabilitation it is possible to consider all the mechanical characteristics too. Recent published papers highlighted how the close interaction between cells and the biomaterial applied to the human body is the main objective in the final integration of the device placed to manage pathologies or for rehabilitation after a surgical tumor is removed. Full article
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