Introduction: Despite the growing interest in the medical applications of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), the structural changes of MNP clusters in biological media under static magnetic fields (SMFs) remain poorly characterized. This study investigates how SMF influences the density and shape of MNP clusters in a breast phantom containing tumor cells.

Materials and Methods: Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles (<50 nm, Sigma-Aldrich) with a magnetic moment of 56.31 emu/g, coercivity of 6.48 Oe, and hysteresis loop area of 350.95 erg/g were visualized in a gelatin-based breast-mimicking phantom with MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma cells in Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM, Sigma) using digital breast tomosynthesis. A Nd₂Fe₁₄B disc magnet was used to guide MNP distribution, generating mechanical forces on MCF-7 cells. Quantitative analysis of MNP clusters employed the convex hull method to calculate pixel density and circularity in acquired 3D X-ray images using ImageJ 1.53k (NIH) software.

Results: SMF application increased MNP cluster density from 0.28 ± 0.03 pixel^-1 to 0.53 ± 0.04 pixel^-1 (p < 0.05). There was a 14% increase in the circularity of MNP cluster formations in response to SMF (0.81 ± 0.02 a.u.) compared with MNPs alone (0.70 ± 0.02), p < 0.05. Estimated magnetic forces ranged from 0.001 to 255.28 pN, which was within the range known to initiate magneto-mechanochemical effects on tumor cells. Remote control of MNP clustering by SMF leads to altered force distributions in the cells, modulating mechanochemical transduction via conformational changes in protein–lipid interactions, ion channels and membrane receptors. This enables theranostic applications, wherein SMFs enhance MNP delivery, imaging contrast, and targeted antitumor effects.

Conclusion: The current study demonstrates that SMF influences the spatial distribution of MNP clusters in a breast phantom with MCF-7 cells, drawing attention to personalized breast cancer treatment strategies based on the magneto-mechanochemical effects of MNPs on tumor cells.

Targeting death receptors (DRs) for cancer therapy holds promise due to their ability to trigger apoptosis in malignant cells. However, the broad expression of DRs in both cancerous and normal tissues has hindered clinical success, primarily due to systemic toxicity. To overcome this limitation, we engineered a DNA origami-based nanorobot that performs conditional, tumor-specific activation of DRs through autonomous structural switching in response to the acidic tumor microenvironment. The nanodevice is constructed with a programmable triplex DNA lock that remains stable at physiological pH (7.4), keeping six TRAIL-mimicking peptide ligands concealed within a closed nanocavity. Under acidic conditions (pH ~6.5), characteristic of solid tumors, the triplex lock dissociates, inducing an open conformation that presents the ligands in a precise 10-nm hexagonal pattern—an arrangement previously shown to be optimal for DR clustering and activation.

We demonstrate that this pH-triggered conformational change results in a potent induction of apoptosis in breast cancer cells in vitro. In vivo, intratumoral administration of the nanorobot in a xenograft mouse model significantly reduced tumor burden—achieving up to 70% tumor growth inhibition—while sparing healthy tissue and avoiding off-target effects. This system exemplifies a new class of “smart” nanomedicines that integrate environmental sensing with spatially organized ligand presentation to execute therapeutic functions with high precision. Our work provides a proof of concept for logic-gated, stimuli-responsive DNA nanorobots with potential applications in targeted cancer therapy and precision medicine.

Drug delivery systems in the form of biodegradable nanoparticles are becoming increasingly important in medicine. Among the representatives of the polyhydroxyalkanoate family, the most promising for use in biomedicine are copolymers of 3-hydroxybutyric acid with inclusions of 4 HB, 3HV or 3HHx monomers. In this regard, the aim of this work was to obtain a three-component copolymer P(3HB-co-3HV-co-3HHx) using Cupriavidus necator B-10646 and to design nanoparticles on its basis, including those loaded with the antibacterial drug ceftazidime.

P(3HB-co-3HV-co-3HHx) samples were synthesized by Cupriavidus necator B-10646 using oleic acid as a carbon substrate. P(3HB-co-3HV-co-3HHх) carriers were obtained via the emulsification method, loaded with ceftazidime and then characterized in terms of particle morphology and size, drug encapsulation and release. The safety and therapeutic efficacy of nanoparticles were assessed in NIH 3T3, E. coli and St. aureus cell cultures.

Using the emulsification method by changing the experimental conditions, nanoparticles with an average diameter from 450 to 900 nm and a zeta potential of -15 -21 mV were obtained. The sustained release of the drug was demonstrated over 28 days in PBS. The kinetics of ceftazidime release from P(3HB-co-3HV-co-3HHx) nanoparticles is described by the Higuchi and Korsmeyer–Peppas models, which corresponds to the diffusion mechanism. The developed polymer nanoparticles loaded with ceftazidime have antibacterial activity and suppress the development of St. aureus and E. coli, without negatively affecting the adhesion and proliferation of fibroblast cells. The number of viable NIH 3T3 fibroblasts cultured in the presence of P(3HB-3HV-3HHx) nanoparticles is comparable to the control.

The developed P(3HB-3HV-3HHx) nanoparticles can be recommended as promising carriers for the delivery of antibacterial drugs.

This study was funded by State Assignment of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the RF (Project No. FWES-2021-0025).

Introduction

Nanotechnology can provide innovative solutions for the encapsulation of anticancer hydrophobic drugs. Aggregation-induced emission molecules are a newly discovered class of substances that present an enhancement in their emission upon aggregation. Polymeric micelles encapsulating molecules that have both AIE and anticancer properties can be utilized for applications in nanomedicine, such as image-guided drug delivery and surgery.

Methods

In this research, three different amphiphilic random copolymers of poly(oligoethylene glycol methylether methacrylate-co-methyl methacrylate), P(OEGMA-co-MMA) were used for the formulation of nanomicelles encapsulating curcumin and quercetin in different concentrations. Nanosystems’ physicochemical and photophysical properties were studied via Electrophoretic Light Scattering (ELS), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Fluorescence (FS), and UV–Vis Absorption Spectroscopy (UV–Vis).

Results

DLS experiments revealed the formulation of loaded nanomicelles with hydrodynamic radii below 113 nm for curcumin and 241 nm for quercetin. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed the encapsulation of curcumin and quercetin inside the nanocarriers. Curcumin was loaded in nanomicelles at a concentration of 10 wt%, while 5 wt% was achieved for quercetin. Fluorescence experiments proved the presence of the AIE phenomenon for both molecules. FBS assay results revealed no interaction between the nanomicelles and serum proteins. Nanoparticles remained stable for 21 days.

Conclusions

A successful formulation of curcumin and quercetin nanocarriers presenting the AIE phenomenon is reported. As FBS assay experiments revealed promising results, further biocompatibility tests can be carried out in order to utilize such formulations in nanomedicine.

Thermotherapy in the form of hyperthermia (42-50°C) is often added to cancer treatments to increase the tumor’s sensitivity to adjuvant (chemo)radiotherapy. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are promising tools for such applications, as they have the capacity to generate heat upon exposure to an alternating magnetic field and simultaneously deliver a radiotherapeutic dose. Optimization of this multifunctional performance implies morphological fine-tuning of MNPs, aiming at high magnetization saturation (M_S) values and, hence, high specific loss power (SLP), while incorporating a suitable radiotherapeutic isotope.

In this work, we investigated iron oxide NPs doped with two elements: paramagnetic Mn(II) and lanthanide Ho(III) with a high magnetic moment, prepared by thermal decomposition and co-precipitation, respectively, resulting in M_S values that increased by up to 1.7 times and improved heating efficiency at 346 kHz and 23 mT. In addition, a pronounced Mn(II) outer rim obtained for higher Mn(II)-content NPs allowed the detection of T₁-weighted MRI contrast convenient for monitoring NPs distribution in tissues due to the water exchange at the NPs' surface. The SLP values of NPs doped with Ho(III) into the Fe-oxide lattice were demonstrated to be dependent on both size and Ho content, with the best-performing NPs being 12 nm with 2.5% Ho. Furthermore, the presence of Ho(III) within the Fe-oxide lattice, in addition to higher SLP, offers the opportunity to perform radiotherapy using the ¹⁶⁶Ho-isotope, a b-emitter (t_1/2=27h) produced by the stable ¹⁶⁵Ho via neutron activation.

These findings demonstrate that Fe-oxide NPs containing magnetic elements with additional functionalities provide the basis for the further development of hybrid materials with enhanced thermotherapeutic performance in combination with radiotherapy.

Aquaculture, a vital sector within the marine economy, is increasingly focused on improving breeding efficiency to support sustainable industrial growth. However, deep-sea aquaculture faces several challenges, including high operational costs, complex environmental control systems, and specific issues such as water pollution, hypoxia, and low feeding efficiency in fish. To overcome these barriers, emerging nanotechnologies like Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG) technology and microfluidic technology offer innovative solutions. TENG technology, by harnessing mechanical energy from ocean waves, can provide a sustainable power supply for aquaculture systems, reducing the dependency on traditional, expensive energy sources. This energy can be used to power equipment, sensors, and other vital systems within the aquaculture environment, making the operation more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. On the other hand, microfluidic technology optimizes water quality and enhances feed distribution by precisely controlling the flow of fluids in aquaculture systems. This capability helps maintain a stable environment, crucial for the health and growth of marine organisms. Moreover, both TENG and microfluidic devices can function as efficient sensors, enabling real-time monitoring of biological behavior, environmental conditions, and other key parameters. By integrating these technologies into marine cage aquaculture, the industry can achieve better environmental control, reduced energy costs, and improved breeding outcomes, supporting the long-term sustainability and profitability of the sector.

Abstract (200–300 words):

The increasing demand for sustainable, biocompatible nanotherapeutics has drawn attention to green synthesis methods using plant-based resources. Beta vulgaris (beetroot), known for its rich polyphenolic and antioxidant content, presents great potential as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent in nanoparticle production. This study explores the green synthesis, characterization, and anti-inflammatory evaluation of zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) mediated by Beta vulgaris extract.

ZnNPs were synthesized using aqueous root extracts of Beta vulgaris via a bottom-up approach. The phytochemicals in the extract facilitated an efficient reduction in zinc ions and stabilization of the nanoparticles. Reaction parameters such as pH, temperature, and extract concentration were optimized to ensure reproducibility and product quality. The resulting colloidal suspension remained stable without visible aggregation for several weeks.

Comprehensive characterization was carried out using UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR and SEM. SEM analysis showed an average particle size of 68 ± 5 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of <0.3, indicating excellent homogeneity. SEM images confirmed spherical morphology with particle sizes ranging from 50 to 80 nm. FTIR spectra confirmed no drug-excipient incompatibility in nanoparticle stabilization.

Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using protein denaturation and nitric oxide scavenging assays, revealing potent effects comparable to standard drugs. The observed activity may be due to the synergistic antioxidant effects of Beta vulgaris and the immunomodulatory properties of zinc, potentially through NF-κB pathway inhibition.

This study highlights a green, cost-effective route for synthesizing stable and bioactive ZnNPs with promising pharmaceutical applications for managing inflammatory disorders.

The global spread of COVID-19 has sparked an urgent demand for innovative antiviral strategies beyond conventional therapeutics. Among emerging approaches, metallic nanoparticles—specifically those composed of gold (AuNPs) and silver (AgNPs)—have shown considerable promise due to their broad-spectrum antiviral capabilities. In this research, we focused on dissecting the interaction dynamics between these nanoparticles and several critical SARS-CoV-2 components. We initially modeled the receptor binding domains (RBDs) of five distinct viral variants—Alpha, Beta, Delta, Omicron, and Gamma—in conjunction with the human ACE2 receptor. Subsequent docking studies explored the potential of AuNPs, AgNPs, and the phytochemical Beta-escin to disrupt or modulate these protein–protein interactions. In parallel, we assessed the binding potential of these nanomaterials against two essential viral enzymes: the main protease (Mpro) and the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). Computational tools, including AutoDock 4.2 and HDOCK, were employed for structure-based virtual screening. The simulations revealed favorable binding interactions between both nanoparticles and Mpro, while AgNPs exhibited notably higher affinity for RdRp. In contrast, AuNPs showed preferential targeting of the Spike protein interface, particularly in complexes involving the Omicron variant, which demonstrated the tightest binding to ACE2. Furthermore, the study presents a theoretical model for a nanoparticle-based intranasal formulation combining AuNPs, AgNPs, and Beta-escin. This delivery system is designed to leverage synergistic molecular interactions at mucosal entry points to prevent viral attachment and replication. Advanced in silico methods, including molecular dynamics simulations and quantum-level analysis, supported the enhanced antiviral profile of the proposed composite. These computational findings lay the groundwork for future experimental validation and position this novel formulation as a potential front-line preventive agent against evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants.

Liquid biopsy offers a non-invasive approach for the early detection of cancer and metastasis. Biomarkers such as microRNAs, circulating tumor DNA, circulating cancer cells, and exosomes, found in body fluids like blood, saliva, and urine, hold great promise for liquid biopsy applications. MicroRNAs, due to their small size (18-25 nucleotides) and instability, are particularly challenging to analyze. Various techniques have been developed for miRNA analysis. Lateral flow assays (LFAs) are widely used diagnostic tools, with applications spanning diagnostics, medicine, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and environmental and food sciences. Furthermore, artificial intelligence and image analysis tools have emerged in analytical methods and (bio)sensors, enhancing the accuracy of the results. In this work, we developed an innovative multicolor LFA to visually detect and discriminate three different microRNAs (miR-21, miR-let-7a, and miR-155). The method includes i) the isolation of miRNAs form urine samples, ii) amplification of miRNAs by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and iii) detection of the amplified products by lateral flow assay. For this purpose, we utilized polystyrene beads of distinct colors as reporters to distinguish between these targets, achieving detection limits as low as 1.56 fmol for each miRNA in urine samples. To enhance automation and accuracy, we integrated image processing in the form of a web and smartphone application, enabling automated result interpretation. The developed system was successfully applied to real urine samples, marking significant progress in LFA diagnostics, demonstrating 99.3% accuracy, 99.1% sensitivity, and 100% specificity.

The impact of intense structured laser fields—specifically Gaussian and Bessel beams—on the electronic and optical properties of InAs/GaAs quantum dots is theoretically investigated. The study focuses on two distinct geometries of vertically coupled quantum dots: cylindrical and strongly oblate ellipsoidal structures. Using non-resonant laser excitation, we analyze how spatially structured fields dynamically reshape the effective confinement potential within the quantum dots, leading to significant modifications in the single-particle energy spectrum and carrier localization patterns.

The results reveal that both the symmetry and spatial profile of the incident beam strongly influence the confinement landscape, giving rise to localized potential wells and anisotropic electron distributions. These changes, in turn, affect the optical transitions and excitonic behavior of the system. The linear and nonlinear optical responses are studied in detail, including the modulation of the absorption coefficient, refractive index variations, and the generation of higher harmonics under strong field conditions.

Special emphasis is placed on the response of excitonic complexes, particularly biexcitons, under structured light excitation. Our findings demonstrate that tailored beam configurations provide a viable route for precise, all-optical control of quantum states in semiconductor nanostructures. This opens promising avenues for tunable photonic devices and quantum information processing applications utilizing engineered light–matter interaction at the nanoscale.