Silver nanoparticles biosynthesised using Centella asiatica leaf extract: apoptosis induction in MCF‐7 breast cancer cell line

The aim of this study was to green synthesised silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Centella asiatica leaf extract and investigate the cytotoxic and apoptosis‐inducing effects of these nanoparticles in MCF‐7 breast cancer cell line. The characteristics and morphology of the green synthesised AgNPs were evaluated using transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, UV–visible spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. The MTT assay was used to investigate the anti‐proliferative activity of biosynthesised nanoparticles in MCF‐7 cells. Apoptosis test was performed using flow cytometry and expression of caspase 3 and 9 genes. The spherical AgNPs with an average size of 19.17 nm were synthesised. The results showed that biosynthesised AgNPs exhibited cytotoxicity, anti‐cancer, apoptosis induction, and increased expression of genes encoding for caspases 3 and 9 in MCF‐7 cancer cells in a concentration‐ and time‐dependent manner. It seems that green synthesised AgNPs have potential uses for pharmaceutical industries.Inspec keywords: ultraviolet spectra, transmission electron microscopy, cellular biophysics, infrared spectra, visible spectra, nanofabrication, cancer, toxicology, nanomedicine, nanoparticles, biomedical materials, scanning electron microscopy, silver, Fourier transform spectra, X‐ray diffraction, genetics, enzymes, botany, biochemistryOther keywords: spherical AgNPs, biosynthesised AgNPs, anti‐cancer, apoptosis induction, green synthesised AgNPs, MCF‐7 breast cancer cell line, green synthesised silver nanoparticles, Ag, caspase gene expression, flow cytometry, anti‐proliferative activity, MTT assay, pharmaceutical industries, cytotoxicity, UV–visible spectroscopy, nanoparticle morphology, scanning electron microscopy, Centella asiatica leaf extract, biosynthesised nanoparticles, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy     

Co‐condensation synthesis of well‐defined mesoporous silica nanoparticles: effect of surface chemical modification on plasmid DNA condensation and transfection

Chemically modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are of interest due to their chemical and thermal stability with adjustable morphology and porosity; therefore, it was aimed to develop and compare the MCM‐41 MSNs functionalised with imidazole groups (MCM‐41‐Im) to unmodified (MCM‐41‐OH) and primary amine functionalised (MCM‐41‐NH₂) MSNs for experimental gene delivery. The results show efficient transfection of the complexes of the plasmid and either MCM‐41‐NH₂ or MCM‐41‐Im. Furthermore, following transfection of HeLa cells using MCM‐41‐Im, an enhanced GFP expression was achieved consistent with the noticeable DNase1 protection and endosomal escape properties of MCM‐41‐Im using carboxyfluorescein tracer.Inspec keywords: condensation, mesoporous materials, silicon compounds, nanoparticles, DNA, surface chemistry, porosity, gene therapy, cellular biophysics, biomedical materials, nanomedicine, nanofabrication, molecular biophysics, biochemistryOther keywords: co‐condensation synthesis, surface chemical modification, plasmid DNA condensation, plasmid DNA transfection, chemical modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles, chemical stability, thermal stability, adjustable morphology, porosity, MCM‐41 MSN functionalisation, imidazole groups, MCM‐41‐OH, primary amine functionalised MSN, gene delivery, HeLa cell transfection, GFP expression, DNase1 protection, endosomal escape properties, carboxyfluorescein tracer, SiO₂      

Honokiol–camptothecin loaded graphene oxide nanoparticle towards combinatorial anti‐cancer drug delivery

Honokiol (HK) is a natural product isolated from the bark, cones, seeds and leaves of plants belonging to the genus Magnolia. It possesses anti‐cancer activity which can efficiently impede the growth and bring about apoptosis of a diversity of cancer cells. The major concerns of using HK are its poor solubility and lack of targeted drug delivery. In this study, a combinatorial drug is prepared by combining HK and camptothecin (CPT). Both CPT and HK belong to the Magnolian genus and induce apoptosis by cell cycle arrest at the S‐phase and G1 phase, respectively. The combinatorial drug thus synthesised was loaded onto a chitosan functionalised graphene oxide nanoparticles, predecorated with folic acid for site‐specific drug delivery. The CPT drug‐loaded nanocarrier was characterised by X‐ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, UV–vis spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy. The antioxidant properties, haemolytic activity and anti‐inflammatory activities were analysed. The cellular toxicity was analysed by 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT assay) and Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay against breast cancer (MCF‐7) cell lines.Inspec keywords: nanofabrication, cancer, nanoparticles, atomic force microscopy, graphene, scanning electron microscopy, cellular biophysics, toxicology, transmission electron microscopy, drug delivery systems, nanomedicine, tumours, solubilityOther keywords: targeted drug delivery, combinatorial drug, Magnolian genus, apoptosis, cell cycle, chitosan functionalised graphene oxide nanoparticles, site‐specific drug delivery, CPT drug‐loaded nanocarrier, transmission electron microscope, fluorescence spectroscopy, haemolytic activity, antiinflammatory activities, breast cancer cell lines, honokiol–camptothecin loaded graphene oxide nanoparticle, combinatorial anti‐cancer drug delivery, natural product, genus Magnolia, anticancer activity, cancer cells     

Characterisation of sol–gel method synthesised MgZnFe2 O4 nanoparticles and its cytotoxic effects on breast cancer cell line,MDA MB‐231 in vitro

In this study, nanocrystalline magnesium zinc ferrite nanoparticles were successfully prepared by a simple sol–gel method using copper nitrate and ferric nitrate as raw materials. The calcined samples were characterised by differential thermal analysis/thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the average particle size of the calcined sample was in a range of 17–41 nm with an average of 29 nm and has spherical size. A cytotoxicity test was performed on human breast cancer cells (MDA MB‐231) and (MCF‐7) at various concentrations starting from (0 µg/ml) to (800 µg/ml). The sample possessed a mild toxic effect toward MDA MB‐231 and MCF‐7 after being examined with MTT (3‐[4, 5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl]‐2, 5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay for up to 72 h of incubation. Higher reduction of cells viability was observed as the concentration of sample was increased in MDA MB‐231 cell line than in MCF‐7. Therefore, further cytotoxicity tests were performed on MDA MB‐231 cell line.Inspec keywords: sol‐gel processing, nanoparticles, nanofabrication, magnesium compounds, zinc compounds, toxicology, biological organs, cancer, cellular biophysics, nanomedicine, calcination, differential thermal analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, particle size, organic compoundsOther keywords: sol‐gel method, cytotoxic effects, breast cancer cell line, MDA MB‐231 in vitro, nanocrystalline magnesium zinc ferrite nanoparticles, copper nitrate, ferric nitrate, raw materials, calcined samples, differential thermal analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, average particle size, cytotoxicity testing, human breast cancer cells, mild toxic effect, 3‐[4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl]‐2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, cell viability, MCF‐7, MDA MB‐231 cell line, size 17 nm to 41 nm     

Luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone targeted poly(methyl vinyl ether maleic acid) nanoparticles for doxorubicin delivery to MCF‐7 breast cancer cells

The purpose of this study was to design a targeted anti‐cancer drug delivery system for breast cancer. Therefore, doxorubicin (DOX) loaded poly(methyl vinyl ether maleic acid) nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by ionic cross‐linking method using Zn²⁺ ions. To optimise the effect of DOX/polymer ratio, Zn/polymer ratio, and stirrer rate a full factorial design was used and their effects on particle size, zeta potential, loading efficiency (LE, %), and release efficiency in 72 h (RE₇₂, %) were studied. Targeted NPs were prepared by chemical coating of tiptorelin/polyallylamin conjugate on the surface of NPs by using 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl) carboiimid HCl as cross‐linking agent. Conjugation efficiency was measured by Bradford assay. Conjugated triptorelin and targeted NPs were studied by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The cytotoxicity of DOX loaded in targeted NPs and non‐targeted ones were studied on MCF‐7 cells which overexpress luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) receptors and SKOV3 cells as negative LHRH receptors using Thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay. The best results obtained from NPs prepared by DOX/polymer ratio of 5%, Zn/polymer ratio of 50%, and stirrer rate of 960 rpm. FTIR spectrum confirmed successful conjugation of triptorelin to NPs. The conjugation efficiency was about 70%. The targeted NPs showed significantly less IC₅₀ for MCF‐7 cells compared to free DOX and non‐targeted NPs.Inspec keywords: nanoparticles, polymer blends, cancer, cellular biophysics, drug delivery systems, drugs, biomedical materials, zinc, positive ions, Fourier transform infrared spectra, nanomedicine, proteinsOther keywords: luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone, poly(methyl vinyl ether maleic acid), doxorubicin delivery, MCF‐7 breast cancer cell, anticancer drug delivery system, doxorubicin‐loaded PVM‐MA nanoparticle, ionic cross‐linking method, zinc ion, doxorubicin‐polymer ratio effect, zinc‐polymer ratio effect, particle size, zeta potential, loading efficiency, release efficiency, chemical coating, tiptorelin‐polyallylamin conjugation, PVM‐MA nanoparticle surface, 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl) carboiimid HCl, cross‐linking agent, Bradford assay, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, cytotoxicity, LHRH receptor, SKOV3 cell, Thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay, conjugation efficiency, time 72 h, Zn²⁺      

Analysis of the size reduction of AgNPs loaded hydrogel and its effect on the anti‐bacterial activity

This article analyses the effect of the size reduced Silver (Ag) loaded hydrogel by (a) lyophilisation (S1) (b) ball milling (S2) techniques and its effect on anti‐bacterial activity. The g loaded hydrogel, S1 and S2 shows an increase in swelling with an increase in pH. The swelling is more for Ag loaded hydrogel in low pH. For pH above 7, the swelling ratio of Ag loaded hydrogel and S1 are almost the same while S2 shows very less swelling. The anti‐bacterial studies reveal that S1 and Ag loaded hydrogel reacted well in S. aureus (Staphylococcus aureus) but no zone formation was seen in S2 .whereas no zone was formed in S1 and S2 for E‐coli (Escherichia coli). As the next step, the anti‐bacterial activity of Ag loaded hydrogel with the addition of curcumin (CS1―size reduced by lyophilisation, CS2―size reduced by ball milling) and turmeric (TS1―size reduced by lyophilisation, TS2―size reduced by ball milling) were investigated. In case of E.coli, a zonal formation of 1.2 cm for TS1 and 1.1 cm for TS2 and 1 cm for CS1 and 0.2 cm for CS2 was observed. For S.aureus, 1.1  and 1 cm were seen for TS1 and CS1. TS2 and CS2 did not show any zone formation. These studies clearly show that size reduction by lyophilisation (S1, TS1 and CS1) is more efficient in all the cases when compared to the ball milling technique (S2, TS2 and CS2). Comparing TS1 with S1 and CS1, TS1 has highly efficient/effective anti‐bacterial properties than S1 and CS1. Therefore, lyophilised hydrogel incorporating turmeric and silver (TS1) is an excellent choice compared to using curcumin for wound dressing applications.     

Lamivudine‐conjugated and efavirenz‐loaded G2 dendrimers: Novel anti‐retroviral nano drug delivery systems

Infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐1 causes immunological disorders and death worldwide which needs to be further assisted by novel anti‐retroviral drug delivery systems. Consequently, finding newer anti‐retroviral pharmaceuticals by using biocompatible, biodegradable nanomaterials comprising a nanoparticle as core and a therapeutic agent is of high global interest. In this experiment, a second generation of a negatively charged nano‐biopolymer linear globular G2 dendrimer was carefully conjugated and loaded with well‐known anti‐HIV drugs lamivudine and efavirenz, respectively. They were characterised by a variety of analytical methods such as Zetasizer, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis and liquid chromatography‐mass spectroscopy. Additionally, conjugated lamivudine and loaded efazirenz with globular PEGylated G2 dendrimer were tested on an HEK293 T cell infected by single‐cycle replicable HIV‐1 virion and evaluated using XTT test and HIV‐1 P24 protein load. The results showed that lamivudine‐conjugated G2 significantly decreased retroviral activity without any cell toxicity. This effect was more or less observed by efavirenz‐loaded G2. These nano‐constructs are strongly suggested for further in vivo anti‐HIV assays.     

Biogenic synthesis of biopolymer‐based Ag–Au bimetallic nanoparticle constructs and their anti‐proliferative assessment

This study reports an eco‐friendly‐based method for the preparation of biopolymer Ag–Au nanoparticles (NPs) by using gum kondagogu (GK; Cochlospermum gossypium), as both reducing and protecting agent. The formation of GK‐(Ag–Au) NPs was confirmed by UV‐absorption, fourier transformed infrared (FTIR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The GK‐(Ag–Au) NPs were of 1–12 nm in size. The anti‐proliferative activity of nanoparticle constructs was assessed by MTT assay, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques. Expression studies revealed up‐regulation of p53, caspase‐3, caspase‐9, peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPAR) PPARa and PPARb, genes and down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐x(K) genes, in B16F10 cells treated with GK‐(Ag–Au) NPs confirming the anti‐proliferative properties of the nanoparticles.Inspec keywords: nanomedicine, transmission electron microscopy, genetics, cellular biophysics, molecular biophysics, enzymes, nanofabrication, gold, silver, scanning electron microscopy, nanoparticles, Fourier transform infrared spectra, atomic force microscopy, biomedical materialsOther keywords: size 1.0 nm to 12.0 nm, Ag‐Au, anti‐proliferative assessment, eco‐friendly‐based method, anti‐proliferative activity, anti‐proliferative properties, biopolymer‐based Ag–Au bimetallic nanoparticle, Cochlospermum gossypium, gum kondagogu, biopolymer preparation, biogenic synthesis, UV‐absorption, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, MTT assay, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, caspase‐3, caspase‐9, peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors, Bcl‐2 gene, Bcl‐x(K) gene, B16F10 cells     

Hypnea musciformis‐mediated Ag/AgCl‐NPs inhibit pathogenic bacteria,HCT‐116 and MCF‐7 cells’ growth in vitro and Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells in vivo in mice

In the present study, Ag/AgCl‐NPs were biosynthesised using Hypnea musciformis seaweed extract; NPs synthesis was confirmed by a change of colour and observation of a razor‐sharp peak at 424 nm by UV–visible spectroscopy. Synthesised nanoparticles were characterised by transmission electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Bacterial cell growth inhibition proves that the Ag/AgCl‐NPs have strong antibacterial activity and cell morphological alteration was observed in treated bacterial cells using propidium iodide (PI). Ag/AgCl‐NPs inhibited Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells, colorectal cancer (HCT‐116) and breast cancer (MCF‐7) cell line in vitro with the IC₅₀ values of 40.45, 24.08 and 36.95 μg/ml, respectively. Initiation of apoptosis in HCT‐116 and MCF‐7 cells was confirmed using PI, FITC‐annexin V and Hoechst 33342 dye. No reaction oxygen species generation was observed in both treated and untreated cell lines. A significant increase of ATG‐5 gene expression indicates the possibility of autophagy cell death besides apoptosis in MCF‐7 cells. The initiation of apoptosis in EAC cells was confirmed by observing caspase‐3 protein expression. Ag/AgCl‐NPs inhibited 22.83% and 51% of the EAC cell growth in vivo in mice when administered 1.5 and 3.0 mg/kg/day (i.p.), respectively, for 5 consequent days.     

Biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using anjbar (root of Persicaria bistorta) extract and their cytotoxic effects on human breast cancer cell line (MCF‐7)

Biosynthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) using biomass is now one of the best methods for synthesising NPs due to their nontoxic and biocompatibility. Plants are the best choice among all biomass to synthesise large‐scale NPs. The objectives of this study were to synthesise zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs) using Anjbar (root of Persicaria bistorta) [An/ZnO‐NPs] and investigate the cytotoxic and anti‐oxidant effects. For this purpose, the An/ZnO‐NPs were synthesised by using Bistort extract and characterised using UV–Visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, x‐ray diffraction and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. The cytotoxic effects of the An/ZnO‐NPs on MCF‐7 cells were followed by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays at 24, 48, and 72 h. Nuclear morphology changed and apoptosis in cells was investigated using acridine orange/propodium iodide (AO/PI) staining and flow cytometry analysis. The pure biosynthesised ZnO‐NPs were spherical in shape and particles sizes ranged from 1 to 50 nm. Treated MCF‐7 cells with different concentrations of ZnO‐NPs inhibited cell viability in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner with IC50 about 32 μg/ml after 48 h of incubation. In flow cytometry analysis the sub‐G1 population, which indicated apoptotic cells, increased from 12.6% at 0 μg/ml (control) to 92.8% at 60 μg/ml, 48 h after exposure. AO/PI staining showed that the treated cells displayed morphologic evidence of apoptosis, compared to untreated groups. Inspec keywords: cancer, cellular biophysics, toxicology, particle size, nanofabrication, X‐ray diffraction, nanomedicine, nanoparticles, ultraviolet spectra, scanning electron microscopy, visible spectra, transmission electron microscopy, patient treatment, field emission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, drug delivery systemsOther keywords: anjbar, cytotoxic effects, human breast cancer cell line, biomass, transmission electron microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, flow cytometry analysis, ZnO‐NPs inhibited cell viability, antioxidant effects, MCF‐7 cells, biosynthesised ZnO‐NP, biosynthesised ZnO‐NP, acridine orange‐propodium iodide staining, An‐ZnO‐NP, Persicaria bistorta, zinc oxide nanoparticle biosynthesis, 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide     

Folate encapsulation in PEG‐diamine grafted mesoporous Fe3 O4 nanoparticles for hyperthermia and in vitro assessment

Effective and targeted delivery of the antitumour drugs towards the specific cancer spot is the major motive of drug delivery. In this direction, suitably functionalised magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) have been utilised as a theranostic agent for imaging, hyperthermia and drug delivery applications. Herein, the authors reported the preparation of multifunctional polyethyleneglycol‐diamine functionalised mesoporous superparamagnetic iron oxide NPs (SPION) prepared by a facile solvothermal method for biomedical applications. To endow targeting ability towards tumour site, folic acid (FA) is attached to the amine groups which are present on the NPs surface by 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride/N‐hydroxysuccinimide chemistry. FA attached SPION shows good colloidal stability and possesses high drug‐loading efficiency of ∼ 96% owing to its mesoporous nature and the electrostatic attachment of daunosamine (NH₃ ⁺) group of doxorubicin (DOX) towards the negative surface charge of carboxyl and hydroxyl group. The NPs possess superior magnetic properties in result endowed with high hyperthermic ability under alternating magnetic field reaching the hyperthermic temperature of 43°C within 223 s at NP''s concentration of 1 mg/ml. The functionalised NPs possess non‐appreciable toxicity in breast cancer cells (MCF‐7) which is triggered under DOX‐loaded SPION.Inspec keywords: nanoparticles, nanocomposites, mesoporous materials, colloids, biochemistry, nanomagnetics, molecular biophysics, tumours, superparamagnetism, drugs, toxicology, biomedical materials, nanofabrication, hyperthermia, cancer, magnetic particles, cellular biophysics, nanomedicine, iron compounds, drug delivery systems, filled polymers, biological organs, liquid phase depositionOther keywords: NP surface, colloidal stability, drug‐loading efficiency, hydroxyl group, magnetic properties, high hyperthermic ability, magnetic field, DOX‐loaded SPION, folate encapsulation, targeted delivery, antitumour drugs, specific cancer spot, magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles, theranostic agent, drug delivery applications, multifunctional polyethyleneglycol‐diamine, facile solvothermal method, biomedical applications, tumour site, amine groups, mesoporous superparamagnetic nanoparticles, PEG‐diamine grafted mesoporous nanoparticles, 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride‐N‐hydroxysuccinimide chemistry, daunosamine group, carboxyl group, breast cancer cells, temperature 43.0 degC, Fe₃ O₄      

Biosynthesis and characterisation of solid lipid nanoparticles and investigation of toxicity against breast cancer cell line

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) comprise non‐toxic surface‐active lipidic agents combined with appropriate ratios of drugs or essential oils. The goal of this research was to investigate the effects of the SLN synthesised using essential oils of Foeniculum vulgare on the MCF‐7 breast cancer cell line. SLNs were prepared by homogenisation and ultrasound techniques and characterised by dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential assessment, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay (MTT assay), flow‐cytometry, and Acridine‐Orange assay were employed for assessing the biological activities of the SLNs. The average particle size was 55.43 nm and the net surface charge was −29.54 ± 11.67 mV. TEM showed that the mean particle size was 33.55 nm and the synthesised SLNs had a uniform round morphology. The MTT assay showed that the prepared SLNs had high toxicity against MCF‐7 cells and low toxicity against normal HUVECs cells. Flow‐cytometry revealed a noteworthy rise in the subG1 peak of the cell cycle in the cancer cells treated with SLNs compared to the controls, indicating apoptosis in cancer cells. The results also showed discolouration in SLNs‐treated cells, which further confirmed the induction of apoptosis and the toxicity of the SLNs against MCF‐7 cells.     

Ketoconazole‐conjugated ZnO nanoparticles based semi‐solid formulation and study their impacts on skin disease

In this study, the ketoconazole‐conjugated zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were prepared in a single‐step approach using dextrose as an intermediate compound. The physical parameters confirmed the drug conjugation with ZnO and their size was around 70–75 nm. The drug loading and in vivo drug release studies indicated that the –CHO group from the dextrose increase the drug loading up to 65% and their release kinetics were also studied. The anti‐fungal studies indicated that the prepared nanoparticles exhibit strong anti‐fungal activity and the minimum concentration needed is 10 mg/ml. The nanoparticles loaded semi‐solid gel was prepared using carbopol, methylparaben, propyl paraben and propylene glycol. The in vitro penetration of the ketoconazole‐conjugated nanoparticles was studied using the skin. The results indicated that the semi‐solid gel preparations influenced the penetration and also favoured the accumulation into the skin membrane. The veterinary clinical studies indicated that the prepared gel is highly suitable for treatment of Malassezia.Inspec keywords: II‐VI semiconductors, skin, biomedical materials, antibacterial activity, wide band gap semiconductors, drug delivery systems, nanomedicine, drugs, diseases, gels, nanofabrication, nanoparticles, zinc compounds, biomembranes, veterinary medicineOther keywords: strong anti‐fungal activity, propyl paraben, propylene glycol, semisolid gel preparations, skin membrane, veterinary clinical studies, semisolid formulation, skin disease, ketoconazole‐conjugated zinc oxide nanoparticles, single‐step approach, physical parameters, drug conjugation, drug loading, release kinetics, dextrose, in vivo drug release studies, carbopol, methylparaben, in vitro penetration, Malassezia, ZnO     

Biosynthesis of reduced graphene oxide using Turbinaria ornata and its cytotoxic effect on MCF‐7 cells

Graphene‐based nanomaterials are gaining importance in biomedicine because of their large surface areas, solubility, and biocompatibility. Green synthesis is the most economical method for application, as it is rapid and sustainable. Biofunctionalized reduced graphene oxide (TrGO) nanosheets were synthesized using methanol extract of Turbinaria ornata, and bioreduction of graphene oxide was primarily confirmed and characterized using UV‐visible, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy and further characterized by zeta potential and transmission electron microscopy. The FTIR spectra of TrGO showed a decrease in the band intensities of oxygen groups, thus confirming effective deoxygenation. The zeta potential value of −34.6 mV revealed that synthesized TrGO was highly stable. The cytotoxic effect of TrGO against MCF‐10A and MCF‐7 cells was ascertained using MTT assay, showed a greater cytotoxic effect on MCF‐7 cells. The IC₅₀ of TrGO treatment against MCF‐7 was calculated to be 31.25 µg, which is onefold lower than the cytotoxic effect of methanolic extract of T. ornata (60.0 ± 1.14 µg/ml). In addition, there was a statistically significant difference in cell viability between MCF‐10A and MCF‐7 cells in the treatment of TrGO. Hence, this study results in an efficient green reductant for producing rGO nanosheets that possess cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells.     

Mesoporous titanium dioxide nanocatalyst: a recyclable approach for one‐pot synthesis of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural

The present study deals with the production of 5‐hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF) from fructose by chemo‐conversion method using chemical catalyst, conventionally achieved by microwave‐assisted dehydration process. Five different chemical catalysts, namely oxalic acid, phosphotungstic acid and mesoporous titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TNPs) were compared at constant conditions of which TNPs yielded a maxima of 33.95%. The optimum temperature and catalyst loading were found to be 200°C and 20%, respectively, at a 5% optimum substrate concentration during 15 min optimum reaction time to yield 61.53% HMF. The efficiency of synthesised TNPs was investigated further through reusability studies. TNPs were properly recycled and the catalytic activity recovery was good even after a 14 batch reactions. The specific surface area of the TNP obtained is about 105.46 m² /g and its pore‐volume is about 0.42 cm³ /g according to single point adsorption. A large accessible surface area combined with a minimal pore size (15.92 nm) obtained with mesoporous TNPs is desirable for better catalyst loading, high‐yield HMF, retention and reduced diffusion constraints.Inspec keywords: mesoporous materials, recycling, production management, dissociation, nanoparticles, nanotechnologyOther keywords: mesoporous titanium dioxide nanocatalyst, recyclable approach, one‐pot synthesis, 5‐hydroxymethyl furfural production, HMF, chemo‐conversion method, chemical catalyst, microwave‐assisted dehydration process, oxalic acid, phosphotungstic acid, mesoporous titanium dioxide nanoparticles, TNP     

Phyto‐mediated synthesis,biological and catalytic activity studies of gold nanoparticles

In the present study, a phyto‐mediated synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using an isoflavone, Dalspinosin (5,7‐dihydroxy‐6,3′,4′‐trimethoxy isoflavone) isolated from the alcoholic extract of roots of Dalbergia coromandeliana is reported. It is observed that Dalspinosin itself acts both as a reducing and a capping agent in the synthesis of the nanoparticles (NPs). An ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectral study showed a surface plasmon resonance band at 526 nm confirming the formation of AuNPs. The NPs formed were characterised by UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM) with energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) and dynamic light scattering. HR‐TEM analysis showed the synthesised AuNPs were spherical in shape with a size of 7.5 nm. The AuNPs were found to be stable for seven months when tested by in vitro methods showed good antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities. They also showed moderate anti‐microbial activities when tested against Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus sp), Gram negative bacterial strains (Klebsiella pneumonia and Klebsiella terrigena) and fungal strain (Candida glabrata). The biosynthesised AuNPs showed significant catalytic activity in the reduction of methylene blue with NaBH₄ to leucomethylene blue.Inspec keywords: biomedical materials, catalysis, Fourier transform infrared spectra, gold, light scattering, microorganisms, nanomedicine, nanoparticles, spectrochemical analysis, surface plasmon resonance, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, X‐ray chemical analysis, X‐ray diffractionOther keywords: phyto‐mediated synthesis, biological activity studies, catalytic activity studies, dalspinosin (5,7‐dihydroxy‐6,3′,4′‐trimethoxy isoflavone), alcoholic extract, roots, Dalbergia coromandeliana, ultraviolet‐visible spectral study, surface plasmon resonance band, UV‐Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, EDX analysis, dynamic light scattering, HR‐TEM analysis, antioxidant activities, antiinflammatory activities, antimicrobial activities, Gram positive bacterial strains, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sp, Gram negative bacterial strains, wavelength 526 nm, size 7.5 nm, time 7 month, Au     

Facile synthesis of anisotropic gold nanoparticles and its synergistic effect on breast cancer cell lines

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) possess colourful light‐scattering properties due to different composition, size and shape. Their unique physical, optical and chemical properties coupled with advantages, have increased the scope of anisotropic AuNPs in various fields. This study reports a green methodology developed for the synthesis of anisotropic AuNPs. The aqueous extracts of Alternanthera sessilis (PGK), Portulaca oleracea (PAK) and Sterculia foetida (SF) with gold ions produced violet, purple and pink coloured AuNPs, respectively, under sonication and room temperature methods revealing the formation of different shapes of AuNPs. The results of TEM analysis of AuNPs confirmed the formation of triangular plate AuNPs of the size 35 nm for PAK extract. Spherical‐shaped AuNPs (10–20 nm) were obtained using an extract of PGK. SF extract produced rod, hexagon, pentagon‐shaped AuNPs and nanorice gold particles. The cell viability studies of the PGK, PAK and SF‐mediated AuNPs on MCF‐7 cell lines by MTT assay revealed the cytotoxic activity of AuNPs to depend on the size, shape and the nature of capping agents. The synthesised AuNPs significantly inhibited the growth of cancer cells (MCF‐7) in a concentration‐dependent manner. The size and shape of these anisotropic AuNPs also reveal its potency to be used as sensors, catalysis, photothermal and therapeutic agents.Inspec keywords: toxicology, gold, transmission electron microscopy, catalysis, nanofabrication, biomedical materials, nanomedicine, particle size, cellular biophysics, nanoparticles, cancer, biological organsOther keywords: Au, size 10.0 nm to 20.0 nm, temperature 293.0 K to 298.0 K, size 35.0 nm, TEM analysis, Sterculia foetida, Portulaca oleracea, Alternanthera sessilis, chemical properties, colourful light‐scattering properties, anisotropic AuNP, triangular plate AuNP, spherical‐shaped AuNP, SF‐mediated AuNP, cancer cells, MCF‐7 cell lines, cell viability, nanorice gold particles, gold ions, optical properties, breast cancer cell lines, anisotropic gold nanoparticles     

Nutratherapeutics approach against cancer: tomato‐mediated synthesised gold nanoparticles

In this study, an eco‐friendly biosynthesis of stable gold nanoparticles (T‐GNPs) was carried out using different concentrations of tomato juice (nutraceuticals) as a reducing agent and tetrachloroauric acid as a metal precursor to explore their potential application in cancer therapeutics. The synthesis of T‐GNPs was monitored by UV‐visible absorption spectroscopy, which unveiled their formation by exhibiting the typical surface plasmon absorption maxima at 522 nm. The size of T‐GNPs was found to be 10.86 ± 0.6 nm. T‐GNPs were characterised by dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. T‐GNPs were further investigated for their anti‐cancer activity against human lung carcinoma cell line (A ₅₄₉) and human cervical cancer cell line wherein the IC₅₀ values were found to be 0.286 and 0.200 mM, respectively. T‐GNPs inhibited the growth of cancer cells by generating ROS and inducing apoptosis. T‐GNPs were found highly effective by virtue of their size, metallic property and capping molecules. Thus, this study opens up the prospects of using nutraceutical (tomato juice) as nutratherapeutic agent (T‐GNPs) against critical diseases like lung cancer and cervical cancer.Inspec keywords: gold, nanoparticles, particle size, cancer, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, electrokinetic effects, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, cellular biophysics, spectrochemical analysis, nanomedicine, nanofabricationOther keywords: tomato‐mediated synthesised gold nanoparticles, tomato juice, reducing agent, tetrachloroauric acid, cancer therapeutics, UV‐visible absorption spectroscopy, surface plasmon absorption, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, human lung carcinoma cell line, anticancer activity, human cervical cancer cell line, nutratherapeutic agent, lung cancer, Au     

Design and development of artemisinin and dexamethasone loaded topical nanodispersion for the effective treatment of age‐related macular degeneration

Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease affecting the macula by the new blood vessels formation. AMD is widely treated with a combination of anti‐angiogenic and anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents. The topical administration of nanodispersions showed enhanced ocular residence time with controlled and prolonged drug delivery to the disease site at the back of the eye. In the present study we developed and characterized nanodispersion containing anti‐angiogenic (artemisinin) and anti‐VEGF agent (dexamethasone) for the topical ocular administration in order to obtain a required drug concentration in the posterior part of the eye. The nanodispersions were prepared with varying concentration of polymer, polyvinyl pyrrolidone K90 and polymeric surfactant, Poloxamer 407. The nanodispersions were found to be smooth and spherical in shape with a size range of 12–26 nm. In‐vitro drug release studies showed the 90–101% of artemisinin and 55–103% of dexamethasone release from the nanodispersions. The blank formulation with a high concentration of polymer and polymeric surfactant showed an acceptable level of haemolysis and DNA damage. The chorioallantoic membrane assay suggested that the nanodispersion possess good anti‐angiogenic effect. Hence the formulated artemisinin and dexamethasone nanodispersion may have the great potential for the AMD treatment.Inspec keywords: drug delivery systems, drugs, eye, blood vessels, DNA, biochemistry, nanofabrication, molecular biophysics, nanomedicine, diseases, biomedical materials, polymers, membranesOther keywords: topical administration, enhanced ocular residence time, controlled prolonged drug delivery, disease site, eye, topical ocular administration, polymeric surfactant, dexamethasone release, dexamethasone nanodispersion, AMD treatment, blood vessel formation, drug concentration, in‐vitro drug release, antiangiogenic effect, artemisinin, dexamethasone loaded topical nanodispersion, age‐related macular degeneration effective treatment, antivascular endothelial growth factor agents, antiangiogenic endothelial growth factor agents, antiVEGF agent, polyvinyl pyrrolidone K90, polymer concentration, Poloxamer 407, size 12.0 nm to 26.0 nm, chorioallantoic membrane assay, DNA damage, haemolysis     

Biosynthesis and characterisation of nano‐silica as potential system for carrying streptomycin at nano‐scale drug delivery

A growing trend within nanomedicine has been the fabrication of self‐delivering supramolecular nanomedicines containing a high and fixed drug content ensuring eco‐friendly conditions. This study reports on green synthesis of silica nanoparticles (Si‐NPs) using Azadirachta indica leaves extract as an effective chelating agent. X‐ray diffraction analysis and Fourier transform‐infra‐red spectroscopic examination were studied. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that the average size of particles formed via plant extract as reducing agent without any surfactant is in the range of 100–170 nm while addition of cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide were more uniform with 200 nm in size. Streptomycin as model drug was successfully loaded to green synthesised Si‐NPs, sustain release of the drug from this conjugate unit were examined. Prolong release pattern of the adsorbed drug ensure that Si‐NPs have great potential in nano‐drug delivery keeping the environment preferably biocompatible, future cytotoxic studies in this connection is helpful in achieving safe mode for nano‐drug delivery.Inspec keywords: silicon compounds, nanofabrication, nanomedicine, drug delivery systems, nanoparticles, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectra, scanning electron microscopyOther keywords: nanosilica, streptomycin, nanoscale drug delivery, nanomedicine, silica nanoparticles, Azadirachta indica leaves extract, X‐ray diffraction analysis, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, SiO₂