Subjects = نانو بیوتکنولوژی
Nanotechnology

Synthesis and Evaluation of Cobalt Ferrite Nanoparticles with Dual MRI Contrast Properties

Volume 16, Issue 4, Autumn 2025

https://doi.org/10.48311/biot.2025.103452.0

Mehdi Abdollahzadeh Parsa; Fereshteh Rahmati; Fatemeh Molaabasi; Saman Hosseinkhani

Abstract Ferrite nanoparticles showed an important role in enhancing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) image contrast because of their unique magnetic properties and potential to modulate water proton relaxation times. Their super-paramagnetic characterizations and biocompatibility provide high-sensitivity and high-precision imaging. In our study, cobalt ferrite nanoparticles were synthesized using the hydrothermal method and the structure and their characterizations were investigated. following phantom preparation, their effects on T₁ and T₂ in MRI were estimated. Elemental analysis (EDX) indicated that the nanoparticles comprised O (56.47%), Fe (27.89%), and Co (15.67%). The mean particle diameter was approximately 152 nm. FTIR spectroscopy revealed characteristic Fe–O and Co–O vibrational bands at 402.1 cm⁻¹ and 588.02 cm⁻¹, respectively, confirming the spinel crystal structure. UV-vis spectra showed metal-oxygen charge transfer 288 nm and d-d transitions (410, 495 nm), verifying the electronic properties. XRD analysis also presented pure spinel phase with characteristic (311), (400), and (440) peaks at 35.5°, 43.1°, and 62.76° (JCPDS 22-1086). This nanoparticle displayed a saturation magnetization of 28.18 emu/g and outstanding relaxivities (r₁ = 341.84, r₂ = 2367.3 mM⁻¹s⁻¹), validating a dual-contrast capability for both T₁ (positive) and T₂ (negative) weighted MRI imaging.

Nanotechnology

Synthesis of polymersome nanoparticles as carriers of podophyllotoxin bioactive compound with a proposed application against liver cancer

Volume 16, Issue 1, Autumn 2024, Pages 1-17

Parvaneh Peyvand; Zahra Vaezi; Hossein Naderi-Manesh

Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma, predominant form of liver cancer, is the main cause of death in patients with liver cirrhosis. Podophyllotoxin, a natural anticancer compound, has ideal anti-tumor properties. However, its use is limited due to poor solubility and bioavailability. Finding a suitable drug delivery system have great importance in improving the bioavailability of podophyllotoxin. In this study, mPEG-PCL nanoparticles have been used for delivery of podophyllotoxin to liver cancer cells. mPEG-PCL copolymers were synthesized and characterized by DLS, FTIR and NMR analyses methods. The critical micellization concentration was 0.055 µg/ml. The z-average and surface charge of micelle was 186 ± 12 nm and -5.13 mV, respectively. podophyllotoxin was loaded in micelles in different w/w ratios of drug: copolymer. The size of the nanodrug was 214 ± 20 nm and the weight ratio of 1:1 with encapsulation efficiency of 77.36 ± 1.23 % was selected as the optimal ratio. The drug release results showed a significant difference between the rapid release of free podophyllotoxin and the more stable release of the loaded drug. At 37°C, drug release was higher, which was attributed to the destruction of polymersome structure at this temperature. According to the cytotoxicity study, the IC50 value for nanodrug (8.64 μg/ml) was lower than the IC50 value for the free drug (12.79 μg/ml), which showed the effect of improved cytotoxicity of nanodrug compared to the free drug. The results proved the polymersome can be potential carriers for delivery, controllable release and improve the toxicity effect of podophyllotoxin in cancer chemotherapy.

Nanotechnology

Electrospinning polyurethane nanocomposite reinforced by graphene oxide, selenium nanoparticles and henna extract for wound dressing applications

Volume 16, Issue 1, Autumn 2024, Pages 35-50

Shahab Sepanloo; Maisam Jalaly; Aboulfazl Mirzapour; Ali Parsay

Abstract It is inevitable to replace the tissues and organs that were disrupted due to trauma or various diseases. One of the methods that can help to speed up the regeneration of wounds is to improve the technology of wound dressings. In the current research, by using the properties of polyurethane nanofibers and improving their properties with additives including graphene oxide, selenium nanoparticles, and henna plant extract, it was aimed to improve the performance of wound dressings. After finding the optimal concentration for the electrospinning machine, DMSO solution containing 12 wt.% polyurethane was used to produce wound dressing nanofibers. The images from scanning electron microscope (SEM) confirmed the production of uniform scaffolds composed of polyurethane nanofibers. Antibacterial properties and mechanical properties of the fabric were studied to check the performance of the manufactured fabric as a wound dressing. For the PU-GO-Se-Henna composite sample, the antibacterial activity against two bacteria, S.aureus and E.coli, was 3.26 and 2.85, respectively, which indicates the very attractive antibacterial properties. This sample reached a tensile strength of 92 MPa in the tensile test, which showed a 104% increase in strength compared to the pure polyurethane sample.

Nanotechnology

Phytochemical based nano drug delivery systems for cancer treatment: present and future

Volume 16, Issue 1, Autumn 2024, Pages 51-72

mahboobeh zare; Nilofar Asadi; Somayeh Rahaiee; Mahmoud Kiani

Abstract Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. this multifactorial disease characterized by complex molecular landscape and altered cell pathways that results in an abnormal cell growth. One of the recent strategies to combat cancer is application of phytochemicals. phytochemicals including phenolics, alkaloids, terpenoids, carotenoids, phytosterol, saponin and organosulfur compounds which play important roles in the prevention and treatment of cancer. The pharmacological use of phytochemicals compounds is frequently limited by their low bioavailability and solubility as they are mainly lipophilic compounds. The nanotechnological approach improves bioavailability, and inhences solubility. In the present review we aim to summarize challenges of phytochemical compounds in cancer treatment and the status of phytochemical based nanoformulations in improving the therapeutic response.

Nanotechnology

Microenvironmental engineering of lipase enzyme and effect of silica nanolayer on stabilization and refolding of enzyme

Volume 15, Issue 4, Autumn 2024, Pages 38-51

Ali Foroutan Kalourazi; S.Shirin Shahangian

Abstract Researchers are currently directing their efforts toward developing new enzyme stabilization and enhancement strategies to broaden their application in various industries. This study utilized a unified platform to stabilize and safeguard proteins in industrial settings. Despite the wide-ranging industrial applications of lipases, their utility in industrial processes is limited by their susceptibility to degradation under harsh environmental conditions. In our study, we used a dual-purpose strategy that involved both enzyme stabilization and the shielding of an organosilica protective layer. After expressing and purifying the recombinant lipase enzyme, we immobilized it onto silica nanoparticles and shielded it with an organosilica nanolayer to protect the enzyme. We meticulously examined the optimal thickness of the protective layer and its influence on enzyme stabilization against environmental stressors. Our research findings demonstrate that the immobilized enzyme exhibited a remarkable level of stability compared to its free enzyme when subjected to various factors, such as fluctuations in temperature and exposure to chemical agents. Furthermore, the immobilized samples displayed optimal activity across a broad range of temperatures, highlighting this approach's adaptability and efficacy. Notably, the organosilica layer significantly bolstered the reactivity recovery of denatured proteins with SDS and urea, highlighting the versatile applications of this method. These findings indicated that our present platform has great potential to improve the efficiency and stability of industrial enzymes against various environmental challenges.

Nanotechnology

Enhancing Solubility and Bioavailability of Curcumin through Novel Dendrimer-based Nanocarrier: A Promising Approach for Therapeutic Efficacy

Volume 15, Issue 3, Spring 2024, Pages 45-57

Afruz Aliyari; Shahla Kiyan Amiri; Hossein Naderi Manesh

Abstract Curcumin, a potent antioxidant extracted from the turmeric plant, is known for its ability to suppress reactive oxygen species (ROS) through activation of antioxidant response elements. However, its clinical utility is limited by poor solubility and rapid elimination. In this study, we aimed to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of curcumin by encapsulating it in fifth-generation polyamidoamine dendrimer nanoparticles. UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy confirmed successful encapsulation, with an average nanoparticle size of 275 nm and a positive surface charge of 8 mV. The nanocarrier exhibited a loading capacity of approximately curcumin6 mol per dendrimer 1mol and achieved complete drug release within 72 hours. Cellular uptake assays using a live/dead assay revealed superior uptake of the nanocarrier compared to free curcumin, leading to a significant reduction in cellular ROS levels and apoptosis. Furthermore, in a model of induced oxidative stress using H2O2, curcumin-loaded dendrimer nanoparticles significantly reduced cellular ROS levels compared to free curcumin. These findings highlight the potential of this nanocarrier as an effective and intelligent system for delivering water-insoluble drugs, offering a promising approach for improving the therapeutic efficacy of curcumin.

Nanotechnology

Synthesis and Characterization of Sm/Fe2O3 Nanocomposite and Investigation of Protein Corona Formation and Its Effects on Uptake and Cytotoxicity of the Nanocomposite

Volume 15, Issue 3, Spring 2024, Pages 89-101

Fatemeh Abdi; Amir Zarebkohan; فرهاد بانی; Saeed Jafarirad

Abstract Iron oxide nanocomposites with lanthanides, due to their unique magnetic properties and biocompatibility, are recognized as attractive agents for the detection and treatment of cancerous tumors. Therefore, understanding the interaction of these nanocomposites with biological systems is important for their efficient design. In this study, samarium-doped magnetite iron oxide nanocomposite was synthesized chemically based on polyethylene glycol and triethanolamine. The nanocomposite w::::::::as char::::::::acterized using XRD, SEM, EDX, and DLS techniques. The crystal size of the nanocomposite was calculated to be approximately 12 nanometers using XRD. SEM image showed the synthetic nanocomposite as an agglomeration of fine particles with a spherical morphology. Subsequently, by incubating the nanocomposite in human blood plasma, the formation of a protein complex called corona protein on the surface of nanoparticles when exposed to biological systems was investigated and confirmed by gel electrophoresis. Cellular uptake results in the interaction of nanoparticles with cells showed that incubating the nanocomposite in human blood plasma led to a decrease in nanoparticle uptake in MDA-MB231 cancer cells and an increase in uptake in RAW 264.7 macrophages, indicating the binding of blood opsonin proteins on the nanoparticle surface. Furthermore, the results indicated that the formation of corona protein had no significant effect on the cellular toxicity of nanoparticles on MDA-MB231 cells at different nanoparticle concentrations up to 200 micrograms per milliliter, and no significant toxicity was reported.

Nanotechnology

Synthesis and Evaluation of Core-Shell Copper-Ferrite Nanoparticles as Negative Contrast Agents in Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Volume 15, Issue 3, Spring 2024, Pages 102-113

Motahareh Rezvan; Mahmoudreza Aghamaali; مطهره Molaabasi; Gholam Hossein Riazi

Abstract Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have emerged as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) due to their high porosity and adjustable structure, serving as drug carriers and new contrast agents in biomedicine. Designing efficient nanoplatforms that leverage the combined properties of both MNPs and MOFs is of great importance.
In this study, we introduce a simple in-situ synthesis method for a mesopore core-shell nanocomposite structure of MOF@Cu-ferrite. Initially, Cu-ferrite nanoparticles were synthesized using a hydrothermal method. Subsequently, the addition of fumaric acid to the Cu-ferrite nanoparticles activated the F0 component, inducing MOF nucleation. As a result, the Cu-ferrite core was gradually covered with a crystalline MOF shell, forming the MOF@Cu-ferrite structure. The MOF@Cu-ferrite nanocomposite is characterized by high porosity, numerous accessible surface functional sites, good crystalline stability, low toxicity of copper, excellent water dispersion, high magnetic properties, and cost-effectiveness. This study investigates the effect of the MOF@Cu-ferrite nanocomposite on the MRI signal intensity. T2-weighted images were obtained using MRI scanner at various iron concentrations of the magnetic nanocomposite, showing a significant change in signal intensity with increasing iron concentration. The transverse relaxivity rate (r2) for different iron concentrations was found to be 504.7 mM-1s-1. The results showed that Cu-ferrite magnetic nanoparticles coated with MOF have significant potential as negative contrast agents in MRI, reducing T2 relaxation time and improve contrast intensity in MR images.

Nanotechnology

A comprehensive review of the application of nanotechnology in agricultural

Volume 15, Issue 2, Spring 2024, Pages 79-103

Fereshteh Alizadeh; sara daneshjou

Abstract Ensuring food security in developing countries is highly challenging due to low productivity of the agriculture sector, degradation of natural resources, crop losses, less value addition, and high population growth. therefore, researchers are striving to adopt newer technologies to increase the supply of agricultural products. one of these technologies is nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is the science of producing, manufacturing and using materials at the atomic and molecular levels and it can transform various industries, including the agricultural industry, with the help of new tools. Nanotechnology By using new materials such as nanofertilizers, nanoherbicides, nanopesticides, etc., strengthens the soil and increases the growth of plants and with the help of new tools such as nano-sensors and intelligent delivery systems, identifies pathogenes in plants. For these reasons nanotechnology can be a promising way to increase the productivity of agricultural products.­­­

Nanotechnology

3D-printed polycaprolactone scaffold coated with silk fibroin and oxidized nanocellulose for wound dressing applications

Volume 15, Issue 2, Spring 2024, Pages 37-66

Afsaneh Ehsandoost; Elnaz Tamjid

Abstract In recent years, significant efforts have been focused on advancements of novel biomaterials based on natural polymers and utilization of efficient methods such as skin tissue engineering for wound treatment. In this study, a 3D printed polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffold coated via immersion in a 1:4 blend of 40% silk fibroin from Bombyx mori cocoons and TEMPO-oxidized was developed. The pore size and the porosity were 180 µm and 85%, respectively. The results demonstrated an enhancement in exudate absorption (swelling and water uptake of 1342% and 80%, respectively), improvement in storage modulus (G’) from 500 to 4000 Pa, as well as viscoelasticity up to 60%, which all are favorable for wound dressing applications. Moreover, the wettability and biodegradability studies revealed an overall increase in contact angle and degradation rate of 19.9°±3, and 95%, respectively. Cell viability and migration studies on fibroblastic cells (L929) using MTT assay, DAPI/ Phalloidin staining, and scratch test showed over 90% viability up to 7 days and complete scratch repair within 24 hours. These findings show that 3D printed PCL scaffolds coated with silk fibroin and oxidized nanocellulose are promising for wound healing applications and might pave the way to natural polymer-based wound dressings.

Nanotechnology

Effect of zinc oxide quantum dots on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) isolates from Baghdad Hospital by PCR-technique for mecA and vanA genes

Volume 15, Issue 2, Spring 2024, Pages 104-112

Zahraa Neamah Abbas; Hanaa Naji Abdullah; Bijan Ranjbar

Abstract In this study, 50 Staphylococcus aureus samples from Baghdad Hospital were collected and examined, 17 samples were infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and 5 samples were infected with vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA). The sensitivity of the isolates against different antimicrobial agents was evaluated using the VITEK2 standard system. According to CLSI, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of zinc oxide quantum dots (ZnO-QDs) were also tested by the Muller-Hinton dilution method. In addition, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to identify vanA and mecA genes. The antibacterial effects of ZnO-QDs on VRSA were higher than MRSA isolates.

Nanotechnology

The effect of Pexiganan as an antimicrobial peptide on the structural stability of gold nanoparticles

Volume 14, Issue 3, Winter 2024, Pages 52-64

Nafiseh Yazdanicherati; Maryam Tabarzad; Bahram Daraei; Bijan Ranjbar

Abstract The study of protein-gold nanoparticles interaction has shown valuable role in medicine, including: drug delivery, vaccine design, biosensors, bioassays, and imaging. Anti-microbial peptides (AMPs) are short amino acid sequences that have important function in the medicinal treatment of multi drug resistant infections. Binding of AMPs to gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) is benefitable for long-term storage, targeted delivery into cells and reduction of drug dosage. This requires preserving the shape and size of the nanoparticles involved in the interaction. In this study, we investigated the interaction of AuNPs in concentration of 2.28 × 10-7 M with three concentrations (0.8, 2, 4 µM) of the antimicrobial peptide Pexiganan in different volumes (2-100µL), in order to study the changes in the shape, charge and size of the particles involved in the interaction by UV-absorption spectroscopy, DLS and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In all three concentrations, with the increase in peptide concentration resulted from increasing the volume of peptide solution, the surface charge of the particles became more positive and the size of the particles increased, this was observed in the form of a new peak at the values ​​above 600 nm in the absorption spectrum of AuNPs, which is due to the interaction of the amin Π group of the amino acid lysine in peptide sequence with the surface of nanoparticles. As a result, the aggregation of AuNPs was observed at higher concentrations of peptide.

Nanotechnology

A review of diagnostic methods based on gold nanoparticles

Volume 14, Issue 3, Winter 2024, Pages 65-86

Zahra Abolghasemi; zeinoddini zeinoddini; seyedMorteza RobatJazi

Abstract Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) with unique optical properties, such as easy operation and visualized assay, have a great ability to detect different types of analytes. Today, the use of gold nanoparticles has wide applications in the field of medicine and biotechnology, including the detection of microorganisms that cause contamination in water, air and food and it is considered a suitable alternative for chemical and physical methods. New technologies in the design of biosensors based on GNPs provide the ability to identify biological compounds accurately and quickly. One of these technologies is a detection sensor based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR), which based on its optical properties, is capable of very sensitive and specific measurement of biomolecule interactions without time delay. This technology can quantify in a short time the properties of biomolecular mediators (such as oligonucleotides, proteins and bacteria) on the surface, including reaction speed, tendency and concentration of surface mediators. In this review, while investigating the surface plasmon properties of gold nanoparticles, the simple diagnostic applications of gold nanoparticles based on the localized surface plasmon (LSPR) method and detection in biomedicine.


Nanotechnology

Design and fabrication of nanobioelectrochemical sensor based on metal-organic framework/graphene for breast cancer diagnosis

Volume 15, Issue 1, Autumn 2023, Pages 1-16

Ali-Akbar Zare; Fatemeh Molaabasi; Hossein Naderi-Manesh

Abstract Rapid and sensitive diagnosis of breast cancer, especially in the early stages of its formation, is very important. One of the methods of detecting cancer cells is the use of electrochemical sensors. Here, a new nanocomposite including an organic metal framework and silver nanoclusters are used. The resulting nanocomposite can be used as a scaffold to attach antibodies for the detection of HER2-positive cells. In the final nanocomposite structure, silver nanoclusters are placed in the internal cavities of the metal-organic framework, leading to strong electron transport, good biocompatibility, and high electrochemical activity. Our results showed that the designed electrochemical sensor has a high sensitivity in identifying HER2 positive cells, with a detection limit of 3 cells and a linear range of 100 to 5000 cells/ml. Also, the investigations showed that the introduced sensor has stability, good selectivity and acceptable application. The proposed strategy for the development of sensors based on metal-organic frameworks provides a promising approach for early detection of cancer markers and living cancer cells.

Nanotechnology

The utilization of Tribulus terrestris seed extract as a biological source for silver nanoparticle synthesis and evaluating the nanoparticles' antibacterial properties

Volume 15, Issue 1, Autumn 2023, Pages 51-65

nooshin bijari

Abstract
The green synthesis of nanoparticles is performed in a low-cost, environmentally friendly, and efficient manner. Compared to other methods of nanoparticle production, green synthesis has proven its superiority and unique benefits, eliminating the need for expensive, toxic, time-consuming, and undesirable methods. In this study, the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using the extract of Tribulus terrestris was investigated. Tribulus terrestris is a medicinal plant used in traditional medicine to treat urinary and reproductive tract infections, especially burning, kidney stone elimination, relief of rheumatic pains, reduction of blood pressure, and stimulation of the liver. In this research, the morphology, size, and structural properties of nanoparticles were investigated using XRD, UV-visible, FT-IR, and SEM. Given the antibacterial and anticancer properties of the Tribulus terrestris extract and the importance of silver nanoparticles, the antimicrobial effects of silver nanoparticles were examined against a number of standard strains, as well as gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. UV-visible spectroscopy revealed a peak in the 429 nm, indicating the presence of synthesized silver nanoparticles. The results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) also confirmed the formation of the crystalline structure of nanoparticles. The results of the non-growth halo diameter for Bacillus subtilis bacterium were more than that of Escherichia coli, in other words, Escherichia coli showed more resistance against synthesized nanoparticles. The results of this research show that the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using milk thistle seed extract can be used as a suitable antibacterial agent against clinical pathogens.

Nanotechnology

Synthesis and evaluation of nanoliposomes containing epigallocatechin gallate: Experimental/ Computational Studies

Volume 15, Issue 1, Autumn 2023, Pages 67-86

Mohammad Tohidlou; Sanam Sadeghi-Mohammadi; Mohammad Ghorbani; Zahra Vaezi; Alireza Farasat; Majid Taghdir; Hossein Naderi-Manesh

Abstract Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a zinc endopeptidase family that increases the metastatic behavior of human malignant tumors. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a major component of green tea polyphenols and is used as an MMP inhibitor in cancer treatment. This study aims to develop and optimize the loading of EGCG in the liposomal delivery system in an experimental/ computational way. In this study, nanoliposomes were prepared by passive loading and thin-film hydration method. Size, zeta potential, stability, encapsulation efficiency, and nanoliposome drug release profile were investigated. Cytotoxicity of nanoliposomes was evaluated on three breast cancer cell lines using an MTT viability assay. To investigate the EGCG-Liposome interaction, coarse-grained Molecular Dynamic simulations were carried out. The mean diameter of liposome was 73.6±6.9 nm, the surface charge was -14.6 mV and the encapsulation efficiency was 78.5±7.3%. The encapsulation of EGCG into the liposome caused a continuous release of the drug after 72 h, which also increased the potency of the drug. Due to the EGCG hydrophobic properties, the major distribution is located at the hydrophobic part of the membrane. The energy and radial distribution function results indicate the stability of liposomes. Simulation results demonstrate that the majority of the drug is surrounded by liposomes, which indicates high encapsulation efficiency and confirms the developed synthesis method. Due to the low solubility of the drug, it seems that the use of liposomal carriers to deliver and release EGCG is a suitable solution to increase the efficiency of the drug.

Nanotechnology

Plant Phenolic Compounds: Nano-delivery systems to improve their potential in food and biomedical applications

Volume 15, Issue 1, Autumn 2023, Pages 111-128

mahboobeh zare; Marjan Sadat Nasri; Razieh Azimi

Abstract Phenolic compoundes are present in nature and have gained extensive research attention because of their unique physiochemical properties and widespread industrial use. These phenolic compoundes are one of the most numerous and ubiquitous groups of plant metabolites and have many benefits for human health. However, low bioavailability of polyphenols is a big challenge in their therapeutic and nutritional effectiveness. Nanotechnology is an emerging field of science, and nanotechnological concepts have been studied for potential applications in the food and biomedical industry. Nanoparticles have specific characteristics and better functionality, thanks to their size and other physicochemical properties. Nanotechnology can overcome challenges of Phenolic compoundes and lead to improved bioavailability and targeted drug delivery and sustained release of them, while also reducing the required drug dose. Based on plant phenolic compoundes, this study reviews the chemical classification, metabolism and bioavailability of these compounds and also provides a brief description for nano-delivery systems of them to improve their potential in food and biomedical applications.

Nanotechnology

Investigation of the effects of Taxol as an anticancer drug on the biomechanical and metabolic properties at the proliferative zone of the spheroids generated from MCF-7 human breast cancer cells in a microfluidic platform

Volume 14, Issue 4, Summer 2023, Pages 25-39

Mohsen Hosseinzadeh; Abdollah Allahverdi

Abstract Investigation of the biomechanical properties of cancer cells is essential for progress in treatment and a better understanding of cancer’s invasion mechanisms. Most of the research carried out in recent years has been done on two-dimensional cultured cells, while the study of cultured cells in three-dimensional mode is more difficult due to the growth of cells in all dimensions and the presence of cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix connections. It is preferable to a two-dimensional culture. Three-dimensional cell culture, compared to two-dimensional culture, is physiologically closer to in-vivo environmental conditions, but it is currently not considered a common approach for cell culture and preclinical experiments. The lack of a suitable substrate and the limitations of common techniques in characterizing various parameters of cells in three-dimensional mode are considered limitations of this type of culture.
In this research, initially, the substrate was made using PDMS to generate a platform for spheroids, and then the formed spheroids were exposed to Taxol as an anti-cytoskeletal drug. Consequently, by imaging them for a certain period of time, their survival rate was checked, and finally, in order to obtain mechanical parameters, the spheroids’ outer surface was scanned by an atomic force microscope.
The results show that the drug Taxol could reduce the survival rate of tumors, and also affect the biomechanical characteristics of cells in a three-dimensional state. In this case, Young's modulus has decreased from an average of 4.84 kPa to 3.67 kPa under the treatment with Taxol.

Nanotechnology

Preparation and characterization of anti PD-L1 monoclonal antibody decorated poly lactic-co-glycolic acid nanoparticles containing linrodostat mesylate.

Volume 14, Issue 4, Summer 2023, Pages 69-85

Somayeh Ahmadiafshar; Nowruz Delirezh; Sanaz Sheikhzadeh; Rahim Hobbenaghi; Johan Garssen

Abstract Nanotechnology mainly shows its inhibitory effect on the tumor microenvironment by modulating the immune suppression mechanism. Success in this field largely depends on the physicochemical characterization of nanoparticle vaccines. The goal of this study was to produce anti PD-L1 monoclonal antibody decorated nanoparticles containing linrodostat mesylate with desirable properties and to investigate their physicochemical characterization .
Nanoparticles were prepared using double emulsion-solvent_evaporation method. Size and morphology of the particles were investigated using the FESEM microscope method and polydispersity index and zeta potential of the particles using the DLS method, as well as release rate and encapsulation efficiency.
The research results showed that nanoparticles had a suitable uniform dispersion. In the group of nanoparticles containing linrodostat mesylate, the polydispersity index of particles was 0.06 and after the binding of anti-PDL1 monoclonal antibody was 0.24. All particles were spherical with a smooth surface. The ideal particle size for nanoparticles containing linrodostat mesylate was estimated to be 210.14 nm, and it was estimated to be about 270.35 nm after binding anti-PDL1 monoclonal antibody to nanoparticles. Binding of anti-PDL1 monoclonal antibody decreased the amount of encapsulated linrodostat mesylate. The release of linrodostat mesylate was biphasic, it has an initial phase with a steep slope and the next phase is a slow and controlled release.
The results showed that the vaccine based on nanoparticles produced by the double emulsion-solvent-evaporation method containing linrodostat mesylate and decorated with anti-PDL-1 monoclonal antibody has very suitable physicochemical characterization to be used as an immunotherapy vaccine.

Nanotechnology

Optimization of nanoencapsulation of carvacrol and thymol in chitosan polymer by response surface methodology (RSM)

Volume 14, Issue 2, Spring 2023, Pages 69-93

Fatemeh Sedaghat; morteza yousefzadi; arash ghaderi; Fatemeh Shayesteh

Abstract The volatility of essential oils and their instability against environmental factors limit their use. However, encapsulating these compounds in polymeric nanoparticles can significantly increase their half-life and make their use possible for longer periods. Chitosan, a biodegradable polymer with controlled release and low toxicity, is one of the polymers utilized in the encapsulation of essential oils. As a result, the present study was carried out with the aim of nanoencapsulation of carvacrol and thymol in chitosan using ionic gelation method and the concentration of chitosan (0.1-0.3%), TPP concentration (0.2-0.1%) and concentration of essential oil (0.1-0.2%) as three variables. The mean particle size of chitosan nanoparticles was optimized using response surface methodology and central composite design. The size and polydispersity index (PDI) were determined by DLS, essential oil loading confirmation was evaluated by FTIR, and the spectrophotometric method was used to measure the encapsulation efficiency. Then, the results of the optimization of nanoparticle synthesis were investigated. The optimum conditions for the synthesis of chitosan-thymol nanoparticles and achieving a size of 101 nm and encapsulation efficiency of 72%, a concentration of 0.11% chitosan, 0.19% TPP and 0.14% thymol were determined. In the case of chitosan-carvacrol nanoparticles, a concentration of 0.13% chitosan, 0.19% TPP and 0.15% carvacrol resulted in the formation of nanoparticles with a size of 95 nm and an encapsulation efficiency of 65%. In general, the results demonstrated the ability of the response surface methodology to predict the particle size and PDI of chitosan nano-formulations containing carvacrol and thymol.

Nanotechnology

Examination of the effect of pH and temperature on the activity of nanosystem containing chondroitinase ABCI based on hydroxyapatite

Volume 14, Issue 2, Spring 2023, Pages 114-124

Fatemeh Afraei; sara daneshjou; Bahareh Dabirmanesh

Abstract Chondroitinase ABCI is a bacterial lyase that degrades glycosaminoglycans and promotes axonal growth and functional improvement. However the stability and maintenance of this enzyme is very limited. One of the strategies to overcome this limitation is to immobilize the enzyme. In this research, chondroitinase ABCI (cABCI) from Proteus Vulgaris was immobilized on hydroxyapatite nanoparticles. Hydroxyapatite is a non-toxic ceramic biomaterial that has a high surface area, which is beneficial for loading a large amount of enzyme. Therefore, to increase the stability of chondroitinase ABCI, immobilization on hydroxyapatite nanoparticles for 4 hours through physical adsorption in phosphate buffer pH 5, 6.8, and 8 at 4C was carried out. Enzyme immobilization on hydroxyapatite nanoparticles was then confirmed by field emission gun-scanning electron microscopy and UV-spectroscopy, before and after immobilization. Then, in order to obtain the optimal pH and temperature, the activity of the nanosystem was investigated at three pH and temperatures (4°C, 25°C, and 37°C). Results revealed higher activity at pH 5 and temperature 4 ◦C than the other pH and temperatures for the nanosystem. Based on the obtained results, which show the stability of the nanosystem at all three temperatures compared to the free enzyme, this nanosystem could be a potential candidate for clinical applications in future.

Nanotechnology

Lipid nanocapsulation of zeaxanthin and evaluation of its cold resistance in milk diet model

Volume 14, Issue 1, Winter 2023, Pages 37-48

roya osanlou; MOZHGAN EMTYAZJOO; Mohammad ali hesari nejad; Fatemeh Ashrafi

Abstract Enriching human food using new technology such as lipid nanocarriers is a simple and accessible tool. Accordingly, the present study aimed to evaluate the sensory and production of healthy and useful food products to evaluate the enrichment of milk with zeaxanthin lipid nanocapsules and to evaluate its cryoprotectants. During experimental-laboratory research, zeaxanthin extraction from Spirulina platensis, and nanocarriers produced for milk enrichment were used as a food model system. Three samples of milk, milk enriched with lipid nanocarriers containing zeaxanthin, and milk enriched with lipid nanocarriers were examined (at similar concentrations of nanocarriers). In order to check the efficiency of produced nanocarriers, cold protective compounds (glucose, sorbitol, glycerin, lactose, and sucrose) were added to milk. Sucrose was recognized as the best cryoprotectants. Sensory evaluation of enriched milk was performed on a five-degree hedonic scale and different sensory parameters were examined. Data were analyzed using Minitab (v. 2016). Results No significant difference was observed between the sensory characteristics of control milk and milk enriched with nanocarriers (P<0.05). The lowest particle size and dispersion index were obtained in the coating of nanocarriers with cold protective compounds, respectively, 320.82 and 0.26 to 0.31. Zeta potential was reported as -6.03. By enriching milk with zeaxanthin-containing nanocarriers, in addition to visual and skin health, problems related to the lack of useful natural additives and insolubility of food products can be eliminated.




Nanotechnology

Interaction of cadmium telluride semiconductor nanoparticles on egg white lysozyme using spectroscopic methods and enzymatic kinetics

Volume 13, Issue 2, Winter 2023, Pages 46-70

Sadegh Farhadian; Lida Momeni; Behzad Shareghi

Abstract In this article, the interaction between lysozyme and CdTe nanoparticles was investigated by UV-Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence, thermal stability, kinetics, and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopic methods at pH 7.25. It was proved that the fluorescence quenching of lysozyme by CdTe NPs was mainly a result of the formation of the CdTe–lysozyme complex. By the fluorescence quenching results, the Stern–Volmer quenching constant (KSV), binding constant (Ka), and binding sites (n) were calculated. Under pH 7.25 conditions, the level of binding constant is determined to be 2.33×103 from fluorescence data. The hydrogen bond or van der Waals force is involved in the binding process. The blue shift of the fluorescence spectral peak of protein after the addition of CdTe nanoparticles reveals that the microenvironments around tryptophan residues are disturbed by CdTe nanoparticles. The effect of CdTe NPs on the conformation of lysozyme has been analyzed by means of UV-Vis spectra and CD spectra, which provided evidence that the secondary structure of lysozyme has been changed by the interaction of CdTe NPs with lysozyme.

Nanotechnology

Recent progress in (nano) biosensors: artificial intelligence (AI) application

Volume 13, Issue 3, Winter 2023, Pages 55-72

Hoda Dashtipour; Ali nouras; sara daneshjou; Sohameh mohebbi; Neda mousaviniri

Abstract These days biosensors have worthy applications in different fields such as biomedicine, disease diagnosis, treatment monitoring, various aspects of the environment, food control, drug production, and assorted sides of medical science. Recently, different types of biosensors such as enzyme biosensors, immune, tissue, DNA, and thermal biosensors have been studied precisely by some research groups. These biosensors have many advantages such as simplicity in implementation, very high sensitivity, automatic performance, intrinsic and natural small size. Another valuable benefit of biosensors is that their high-affinity paring with biomolecules allows sensitive (high-sensitivity) and selective detection from a wide range of analytes. Artificial intelligence (AI) due to its high potency, if combined with biotechnology, like biosensors, can be effective in accurate prediction, diagnosis and treatment of some diseases, including cancer. Today, Machine learning (ML) as one of the branches of AI has become a beneficial tool in analyzing and categorizing obtained data from biosensors for bioanalysis. Using ML algorithms automates the complicated processes of extraction, processing, and assaying data achieved from biosensors. This article is a review for introducing and survey of various biosensors, their applications, and ways to apply them, focusing on cancer and Covid19 which are important diseases in the world obtained from previous studies, as a summary and providing information for researchers which working in this field.

Nanotechnology

Synthesis of Cerosome nanoparticles and investigation of the stability and the release of loaded-Gallic acid as bioactive compound

Volume 13, Issue 4, Winter 2023, Pages 49-59

Seyed Mohammad Reza Mortazavi; Zahra Vaezi; Hossein Naderi-Manesh

Abstract Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract. Despite numerous endeavors over the past few years, as well as an increase within the number of patients with the disease, there are currently limited medications available to manage intestinal inflammation. Designing a new biological treatment using natural bioactive medications with fewer side effects and more secure transmission than chemical compounds could be advantageous. In this study, a new strategy for the controlled release of Gallic acid as a bioactive polyphenol with anti-inflammatory impacts was proposed. This bioactive compound was loaded on a Cerosome nanocarrier and its stability was investigated. Cerosome-forming lipid (CFL) was synthesized through a two-step chemical reaction and then the Cerosomes were prepared by thin layer hydration by distinctive proportions of DPPC: CFL mole ratio. Cerosome with a mean diameter of 335 nm and zeta potential of -23 mV were homogeneous. The optimal formulation of the Cerosomal gallic acid system shows 34% loading and controlled release of the medication in gastrointestinal fluid environments. Structural stability was systematically evaluated by physicochemical characterization methods, and Cerasomes showed greater stability than liposomes and could be present longer in the bloodstream. These results indicate that Cerasomes can be a better medication delivery system for long-term storage and controllable release of gallic acid and have remarkable applications as carriers of intestinal inflammation drug delivery.