Multi-responsive cyclodextrin vesicles assembled by ‘supramolecular bola-amphiphiles’

Multi-responsive cyclodextrin vesicles (CDVs) self-assembled by ‘supramolecular bola-amphiphiles’, consisting of a guest (N,N′-bis(ferrocenylmethylene)-diaminohexane, 1) and a host (γ-hydroxybutyric-β-cyclodextrin, γ-HB-β-CD), were prepared and investigated for the first time. The morphologies and sizes of these novel vesicles in water were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. The effects of the host–guest ratio, the concentration and the solvent composition are also discussed. The host–guest interactions, complex stoichiometry and structures of 1·γ-HB-β-CD in water were investigated by cyclic voltammetry, UV and NMR spectroscopy. According to the complex stoichiometry, TEM observations and Chem3D estimation, the ‘supramolecular bola-amphiphiles’, made from 1·γ-HB-β-CD and assumed for the first time, formed the membranes of the CDVs. The CDV system was responsive to an oxidising agent, which is the first report on redox-responsive systems in this field. The CDVs are also responsive to pH and the presence of metal ions, such that they disassemble upon addition of acetic acid or Cu²⁺ ions, providing possible routes to drug delivery systems.     

HPLC Gel-Filtration of Insulin During Short and Long Time Infusion by Artificial Delivery Systems

Abstract

We examined with High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) gel-filtration the aggregational behaviour of insulin during application by artificial delivery systems.

The short time infusion was performed by an autosyringe pump and the long time infusion was performed by a Siemens pump. For comparison we collected samples of about l ml and determined the radioimmunological activity in order to verify the results of the HPLC gel-filtration.

The chromatograms, performed at 37[ddot]C and at ambibient temperature, showed no aggregates of a higher molecular weight.

We observed sedimentation only once during long time infusion, however, the immediately performed gel-filtration surprisingly showed at no time an aggregate of a higher molecular weight, but the quantity of insulin was obviously reduced.

A different length of the catheter systems used did not promote the aggregational behaviour.     

Comparative isoconversional thermal analysis of Artemisia vulgaris hydrogel and its acetates; a potential matrix for sustained drug delivery

Abstract

Artemisia vulgaris hydrogel (AVH) was acetylated (AAVH) and characterized by FTIR, CP/MAS ¹³C-NMR spectroscopic techniques and thermogravimetric analysis. Flynn–Waal–Ozawa model was used to investigate thermal degradation kinetics. Energy of activation (Ea) values of first and major thermal degradation steps were found to be 128.14 and 116.85 kJmol^?1 for AVH and AAVH, respectively. Thermodynamic triplet, order of degradation reaction, integral procedural decomposition temperature (IPDT) and comprehensive index of intrinsic thermal stability (ITS) were also taken into account. In vitro caffeine release from AVH-based matrix tablets indicates potential of AVH for the development of oral delivery systems for sustained drug release.     

Bioconjugated Luminescent Nanoparticles for Biological Applications

Abstract

Inorganic nanostructures that interface with biological systems have recently attracted widespread interest in biology and medicine. Nanoparticles are thought to have potential as novel luminescent probes for both diagnostic (e.g., imaging) and therapeutic (e.g., drug delivery) purposes because of their size comparable to biomolecules and their novel optical, electronic, and magnetic properties. Critical issues for successful nanoparticle delivery include the ability to target specific tissues and cell types and escape from the biological particulate filter known as reticuloendothelial system. Three distinct types of luminescent nanoparticles have been identified which show promise in bioanalysis, namely dye‐doped nanoparticles, semiconductor and metal nanoparticles. In this article we examine the recent advances in the development of dye‐doped nanoparticles, metal and semiconductor nanoparticles, bioconjugation schemes to attach these nanoparticles to biomolecules and a few biological applications.     

Synthesis of silver nanoflakes on chitosan hydrogel beads and their antimicrobial potential

Abstract

The present study involves the fabrication of CH and CH-Ag hydrogel beads and the investigation of the antimicrobial properties. The beads were fabricated using a simple coacervation method. The successfully synthesized beads were characterized by UV-Vis and FTIR. The surface morphology, shape and diameter of the samples were determined by optical microscopy and SEM. The antimicrobial activities were determined against potential human pathogens including bacterial and fungal species. Our results demonstrated that beads can be utilized as potential materials for use in biomedical approaches including delivery systems and tissue engineering applications to prevent microbial contamination and to inhibit the growth of microorganisms.     

Fabrication of a microporous Dy(III)-organic framework with polar channels for 5-Fu (fluorouracil) delivery and inhibiting human brain tumor cells

Porous metal-organic framework (MOF) is currently of great interest not only for its attractive structures but also because of its potential application in the biomedical field as effective drug delivery systems (DDSs). In this work, we have succeeded in the construction of a new porous lanthanide Dy(III)-organic framework, [Dy(BTC)(H₂O)]·(H₂O)(DMF) (1, BTC?=?1,3,5-bezenetricarboxylate, DMF?=?N,N-dimethylformamide), with abundant of open metal sites in the 1D channels though an one pot of solvothermal reaction. The structure of the obtained crystalline product has been fully determined by the X-ray single crystal diffraction, TGA, power X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, and the gas sorption measurement. Due to the suitable window size and open metal sites functionalized 1D channels, the activated 1 (1a) was used for loading the anticancer drug 5-Fu (Fluorouracil) by a simple impregnation method. A moderate drug loading and pH-dependent drug-release behavior could be observed for 1a. Furthermore, as revealed by the MTT assay, this 5-Fu@1a system shows low toxicity toward the human normal cells and demonstrates obvious anticancer activity against human brain tumor cells SF17.

     

A new Dy(III)-based metal-organic framework with polar pores for pH-controlled anticancer drug delivery and inhibiting human osteosarcoma cells

Anticancer drug delivery is considered as the most common and patient acceptable drug administration with reduced side effects. In general, an ideal drug carrier for anticancer drug delivery should have high drug loading capacity, good biocompatibility, and avoid drug delivery in normal tissue (neutral conditions) and promoting the drug release in cancerous tissue (acidic condition). Herein, we synthesize a new porous Dy(III)-based metal-organic framework, [Dy(HABA)(ABA)](DMA)₄] (1, H₂ABA = 4,4'-azanediyldibenzoic acid, DMA = N,N-dimethylacetamide) with uncoordinated N donor sites in the porous surroundings using a bent polycarboxylic acid linker under solvothermal conditions. The structure of the obtained crystalline product has been determined by X-ray single-crystal diffraction, elemental analysis, TGA, XRD, and gas sorption measurement. Due to the suitable window size and polar atom functionalized 1D channels, the activated 1 (1a) was used for anticancer drug 5-Fu loading. A moderately high drug loading and pH-dependent drug-release behavior could be observed for 1a. Furthermore, as demonstrated by the MTT assay, this drug/MOF composite shows low cytotoxicity, good biocompatibility, and anticancer activity against human osteosarcoma cell lines MG63.     

Trimethylarsonium-Based Cationic Phospholipids for Gene Delivery

Abstract

Lipophosphoramide-based cationic lipids are a class of synthetic vectors used for gene delivery that can be produced in multigram scale. The use of trimethylarsonium moiety as a cationic polar head was beneficial to produce efficient gene delivery vectors for in vivo applications. Moreover, this type of cationic lipid can also exhibit some bactericidal effects.     

New Perfluoroalkylated Phosphorus Amphiphiles

Abstract

Phospholipids are the main components of biological membranes and the) spontaneously tend to self-assembly into liposomes. Synthetic double-chain so as bol amphiphiles allow the preparation of vesicles and can bc used as models of natural membranes and for preparing drug delivery systems. The formation of vesicles from single-chain perfluomalkylated phosphate or phosphoramidate amphiphiles war recently reported.¹ We present the synthesis of new fluoroalkylatcd phosphinic acid amphiphiles bearing a P-C bond and an ionic polar head promoting self-organisation We have already described the synthesis of the phosphine derivatives by one-poireaction from red phosphorus via the in situ generation of PH₃, and terminal alkenes and alkynes in basic media under sonication.² We extend this reaction to perfluoroalkena under phase uansfert catalysis.     

Structured emulsion-based delivery systems: Controlling the digestion and release of lipophilic food components

There is a need for edible delivery systems to encapsulate, protect and release bioactive and functional lipophilic constituents within the food and pharmaceutical industries. These delivery systems could be used for a number of purposes: controlling lipid bioavailability; targeting the delivery of bioactive components within the gastrointestinal tract; and designing food matrices that delay lipid digestion and induce satiety. Emulsion technology is particularly suited for the design and fabrication of delivery systems for lipids. In this article we provide an overview of a number of emulsion-based technologies that can be used as edible delivery systems by the food and other industries, including conventional emulsions, nanoemulsions, multilayer emulsions, solid lipid particles, and filled hydrogel particles. Each of these delivery systems can be produced from food-grade (GRAS) ingredients (e.g., lipids, proteins, polysaccharides, surfactants, and minerals) using relatively simple processing operations (e.g., mixing, homogenizing, and thermal processing). The structure, preparation, and utilization of each type of delivery system for controlling lipid digestion are discussed. This knowledge can be used to select the most appropriate emulsion-based delivery system for specific applications, such as encapsulation, controlled digestion, and targeted release.     

Encapsulation,protection, and release of hydrophilic active components: Potential and limitations of colloidal delivery systems

There have been major advances in the development of edible colloidal delivery systems for hydrophobic bioactives in recent years. However, there are still many challenges associated with the development of effective delivery systems for hydrophilic bioactives. This review highlights the major challenges associated with developing colloidal delivery systems for hydrophilic bioactive components that can be utilized in foods, pharmaceuticals, and other products intended for oral ingestion. Special emphasis is given to the fundamental physicochemical phenomena associated with encapsulation, stabilization, and release of these bioactive components, such as solubility, partitioning, barriers, and mass transport processes. Delivery systems suitable for encapsulating hydrophilic bioactive components are then reviewed, including liposomes, multiple emulsions, solid fat particles, multiple emulsions, biopolymer particles, cubosomes, and biologically-derived systems. The advantages and limitations of each of these delivery systems are highlighted. This information should facilitate the rational selection of the most appropriate colloidal delivery systems for particular applications in the food and other industries.     

Synthesis of Cholesterylated Thiogalactosides for Gene Delivery

A series of cholesterylated thiogalactosides L₁ –L₆ the cell targeting ligands for gene delivery to hepatocytes, was synthesized. Related poly(ethylene glycol) chain was used as a bridge for the attachment of galactoside on one hydroxyl end, while the other hydroxyl end was linked with cholesterol. This design provided an effective entry for the synthesis of a poly(ethylene glycol) compound with the hepatocyte targeting.     

Computer-Assisted Design of New Drugs Based on Retrometabolic Concepts

Abstract

Retrometabolic drug design approaches incorporate metabolic and toxicological considerations into the drug design process and represent a novel, systematic methodology for the design of safe compounds. Two major design concepts aimed to increase the therapeutic index (the activity/toxicity ratio) of drugs were developed. Chemical delivery systems (CDS) are primarily used to allow targeting of the active biological molecules to specific target sites or organs based on predictable enzymatic activation. Soft drug approaches are used to design new drugs by building in the molecule, in addition to the activity, the most desired way in which the molecule is to be deactivated and detoxified subsequent to exerting its biological effects. Special computer programs were developed that starting from a lead compound generate complete libraries of possible soft analogs and then help ranking these candidates based on isosteric-isoelectronic comparisons, predicted solubility/partition properties, and estimated metabolic rates. The novel field of large peptide-CDSs imposes special challenges, but a new, remarkably simple model was developed to estimate partition properties for a wide range of compounds, including quite large peptide derivatives. A suggested change of about five order of magnitudes in the distribution coefficient can explain the “lock in” mechanism of brain-targeting delivery systems.     

The Chemistry of 10-Pn-3 Systems1: Tricoordinate Hypervalent Pnictogen Compounds and Related Systems

Abstract

The unusual hypervalent tricoordinate pnictogen systems, 10-Pn-3 ADPnO, provide a convenient starting point for the study of a wide range of main group chemistry. Differences in reactivity patterns among the pnictogens are readily apparent from the variety of chemistry exhibited. The ADPnO systems also provide a model for the recently recognized edge inversion mechanism for 3 and 4 coordinate 8-electron main group species.     

Effect of the size of calixarene macrocycle on the thermodynamic parameters of formation of inclusion compounds in guest vapor—solid host systems

The influence of the calixarene macrocycle size on the thermodynamic parameters of inclusion formation in organic guest vapor—solid host systems was studied in the series of tert-butylcalix[4]arene (1), tert-butylcalix[6]arene (2), and tert-butylcalix[8]arene (3). For this purpose, sorption isotherms of a guest vapor by a solid host were determined using the static method of headspace GC analysis for the systems involving calixarenes 2 and 3 in addition to the earlier obtained data for calixarene 1. Besides, the stoichiometry and decomposition temperatures of saturated clathrates formed in these systems were determined using thermogravimetry. The compositions of some of these clathrates differ substantially from those of clathrates crystallized from a host solution in a liquid guest. For the most guests studied with the thermodynamic activity below 0.6, their uptake by calixarenes 1—3 changes in the series 2 < 1 < 3. As a whole, the trend for each particular parameter of clathrates of hosts 1—3 (stoichiometry, guest activity at 50% saturation of the host) with increasing the size of the calixarene macrocycle is specific for each guest studied. The results obtained are useful for the estimation of receptor properties of calixarenes in quartz microbalance sensors.     

Theoretical study on dithieno[3,2-b:2′,3′-d]phosphole derivatives: high-efficiency blue-emitting materials with ambipolar semiconductor behavior

Phosphole-based systems due to the unique electronic and optical properties have recently been paid much attention as optoelectronic materials. In this work, the relationship among the electronic structure, charge injection, and transport was investigated for five derivatives of dithieno[3,2-b:2′,3′-d]phosphole (systems 1–5). The structures of systems 1–5 in the ground (S₀) and the lowest singlet excited (S₁) states were optimized at the HF/6-31G* and CIS/6-31G* levels of theory, respectively. Based on these structures, electronic spectra were calculated by time-dependent density functional theory. The simulated emission peaks of five phosphole derivatives locating at the blue–green region (448–516 nm), are in good agreement with the experimental data. Compared with tris-(8-quinolinolate) aluminum (III) (Alq₃), normally used as an excellent electron transporter, systems 1–5 show a significant improvement in electron affinity (EA) due to σ*–π* hyperconjugation, which can effectively promote ability of electron injection. The small differences between λ _h and λ _e for systems 1–5 (0.06–0.14 eV) facilitate charge transfer balance, which suggests systems 1–5 can act as potential ambipolar materials. Owing to good rigidity, low-lying LUMO levels, delocalized frontier molecular orbitals, and the small reorganization energies, the five derivatives of dithieno[3,2-b:2′,3′-d]phosphole are expected to be high-efficiency blue materials in single-layer OLEDs.     

Plasticization of cellulose diacetate with a mixture of triacetin and esters of butylcellosolve and aliphatic dicarboxylic acids

The compatibility of cellulose diacetate with triacetin and esters of butylcellosolve with dicarboxylic aliphatic acids was studied for a wide range of compositions. The glass transition temperature T _g ,the dielectric relaxation activation energy and the tensile creep for the plasticized systems were determined. It is shown that when the esters are added to triacetin in small amounts, which correspond to the formation of compatible systems, the plasticizing effect is enhanced and the molecular mobility of the system components is improved.     

The role of miktoarm star copolymers in drug delivery systems

Abstract

Miktoarm star copolymers are relatively considered to be a new and unique class of macromolecules, and are a new topical area due to the unique properties by varying their polymer arms. This macromolecules with the A_mB_n architecture, have m arms of polymer A and n arms of polymer B connected at one central junction point. Over the past decade, miktoarms have been used in biomedical applications such as drug delivery, gene delivery, tissue engineering, diagnosis, and antibacterial/antifouling biomaterials. The intensified interest in miktoarms is attributed to their unique topological structures and attractive physical/chemical properties, including low critical micelle concentration (CMC) in solutions, encapsulation capability, internal and peripheral functionality, and enhanced stimuli-responsiveness. This review outlines the advances in the use of miktoarms in drug delivery for their good performance in biocompatibility, biodegradability and sustained, controlled and targeted drug delivery during the past decade and some unique self-assembly behaviors of miktoarm star copolymers have been reported.     

Synthesis, characterization and bioevaluation of irinotecan-collagen hybrid materials for biomedical applications as drug delivery systems in tumoral treatments

The purpose of the present study is the preparation and characterization of collagen/antitumor drug hybrids as drug delivery systems. Materials used for obtaining collagen-based drug delivery systems were collagen type I (Coll) as matrix and irinotecan (I) as hydrophilic active substances. After incorporation of I into Coll in differing ratios, the obtained hybrid materials (Coll/I) could be used according to our results as potential drug delivery systems in medicine for the topical (local) treatment of cancerous tissues or bone. The released amount of I varies with amount of Coll from hybrid materials: the higher, the slower the release amount of irinotecan transferred is in the first 6 hours. The in vitro citotoxicity demonstrates an antitumoral activity of the obtained hybrid materials and their potential use for biomedical applications as drug delivery systems in tumoral treatments.      

Green chemistry & chemical stewardship certificate program: a novel,interdisciplinary approach to green chemistry and environmental health education

ABSTRACT

The Green Chemistry & Chemical Stewardship Certificate Program was designed using the Community of Inquiry (COI) model as a framework for developing curriculum that engages students across the entire program to meet interdisciplinary, professional development program outcomes. The COI framework allows faculty and course developers to develop courses that consider cognitive, social, and teaching presence as equal components of successful learning experiences. In this program, students focus on systems thinking around green chemistry, business, environmental health, chemical alternative assessment tools, and social and environmental justice. They complete a capstone project that identifies a particular environmental or human health issue associated with a chemical and suggest suitable substitutions that are less harmful but equally effective. This paper describes the program’s curriculum, partnerships, delivery modalities, and student feedback as a framework developing professional development opportunities that offer a rich interdisciplinary experience for learners.