Nanostructures for Novel Therapy: Synthesis, Characterization and Applications

Nanostructures for Novel Therapy

Synthesis, Characterization and Applications

Nanostructures in Therapeutic Medicine Series

Edited by

Denisa Ficai

University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu

University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Table of Contents

Cover

Title page

Copyright

List of Contributors

Foreword of the Series

Preface

Chapter 1: Novel approaches for preparation of nanoparticles

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Synthetic Methods for Preparation of Metal Nanoparticles

3. Application of Metal Nanoparticles in Theranostics

4. Conclusions

Acknowledgments

Chapter 2: Applications of nanoscale drugs carriers in the treatment of chronic diseases

Abstract

1. Introduction in Drug Delivery and Targeting

2. Applications of Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Targeting

3. Conclusions

Chapter 3: Functionalization of nanoparticles in specific targeting and mechanism release

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Controlled-Release Mechanisms

3. Project of Nanoparticles

4. Nanoparticles Targeting

5. Conclusions

Chapter 4: Fabrication and characterization of natural/synthesized, micro-, and nanostructured materials for biomedical applications

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Pearl Shell

3. Microstructure Analysis of Nacre by Transmission Electron Microscopy

4. Micro-/Nanoparticles

5. Surface Modification of Nanoparticles

6. 2D Periodic Structure by Thermal Imprinting Process

7. Functionalities for Biomedical Applications

8. Summary and Future Directions

Chapter 5: Multifunctional nanostructured biopolymeric materials for therapeutic applications

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Biopolymers

3. Multifunctional Nanostructured Materials

4. Therapeutic Applications

5. Conclusions and Perspectives

Chapter 6: Polymeric pharmaceutical nanoparticles developed by electrospray

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Polymeric Particles and Atomizers

3. Electrospray

4. Therapeutic Nanoparticles Loaded by Electrospray

5. Conclusions

Chapter 7: Nanoformulation and administration of PUFA-rich systems for applications in modern healthcare

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Lipid Nanoparticles: Types and Fabrication Technology

3. Understanding the Physiological System for Therapy: The Significance of Lipid Nanotechnology at Tissue and Cellular Level

4. Therapeutic Lipid Nanostructures

5. Risk and Hazard Assessment

6. Challenges and Scope

7. Conclusions

Acknowledgments

Chapter 8: Electrospinning and surface modification methods for functionalized cell scaffolds

Abstract

1. Electrospinning for Tissue Engineering

2. Fundamentals of the Electrospinning Process

3. Tuning the Morphology of Electrospun Scaffolds and its Effects on Cell Behavior

4. Surface Modification Methods of Electrospun Nanofibers

5. Conclusions

Chapter 9: Short peptide self-assembled nanostructures for therapeutics innovative delivery

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Preparation and Characterization of Self-Assembling Short Peptides

3. Drug-Delivery Applications

4. Self-Assembly to Achieve a Therapeutic Effect

5. Conclusions and Future Outlook

Abbreviations

Chapter 10: Peptoids: tomorrow’s therapeutics

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Peptoid Synthesis

3. Peptoid Structures

4. Applications of Peptoids

5. Conclusions

Chapter 11: Electrospinning of collagen nanofiber scaffolds for tissue repair and regeneration

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Tissue Engineering

3. Scaffold

4. Nanofibers

5. Electrospinning

6. Applications of Electrospun Collagen

Chapter 12: Nanostructured therapeutic systems with bioadhesive and thermoresponsive properties

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Bioadhesive Systems

3. Stimuli-Responsive Polymers

4. Hydrogels

5. Mucoadhesive Thermoresponsive Systems

6. Characterization of Mucoadhesive Thermoresponsive Systems

7. Conclusions

Chapter 13: Design considerations in the development of wound healing bionanomaterials

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Skin: Properties, Growth, and Regeneration

3. Bionanomaterials

4. Nanostructures

5. Nanofabrication

6. Conclusions

Chapter 14: Role of nanostructure molecules in enhancing the bioavailability of oral drugs

Abstract

1. Nanotechnology: Some Basic Concepts

2. Nanostructure Molecules or Nanoparticles

3. Absorption of Oral Drugs in the Gastrointenstinal Tract

4. Nanoscience and Nanotechnology: From Basic Science to Applications

Chapter 15: Improvement steps of plastic surgery to tissue engineering by nanotechnology

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Development of Nanotechnology Into Nanomedicine

3. Nanomaterials Used in Medical Therapeutics

4. Nanotechnology in Diagnostics

5. Nanotechnology and Drug Delivery

6. Use of Nanotechnology in Tissue Engineering

7. Conclusions

Chapter 16: Dendrimers and dendronized materials as nanocarriers

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Synthetic Approach

3. Physico-Chemical Properties of Dendritic Molecules useful for Nanocarriers

4. Drug–Dendritic Polymer Interactions

5. Types of Targeting by Nanodelivery System

6. Routes of Administration of Dendritic Molecules

7. Successful Examples of Dendritic Molecules as Nanocarriers

8. Conclusions

Acknowledgments

Chapter 17: Gold nanostructures: preparation, properties, application in SERS, and biophotonics

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Experimental

3. Theoretical

4. Methods for Preparation of Gold Nanoparticles and Nanostructures. Application in SERS

5. Application of Au Nanostructures in Biophotonics

6. Conclusions

Acknowledgments

Chapter 18: Quantum dots for bioimaging and therapeutic applications

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. QDs for Bioimaging Applications

3. QDs for Therapy

4. Conclusions

Chapter 19: Lipid-based synthetic gene carriers

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Equilibrium Lipoplex Structure on the Nanoscale

3. The Kinetics of Lipoplex Formation

4. Discussion

5. Conclusions

Conflict of Interests

Chapter 20: Using microsensors to promote the development of innovative therapeutic nanostructures

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Nano-Objects Definition and Properties

3. Integrated Analyte Handling

4. Measurements Techniques

5. Conclusions

Chapter 21: The effect of nanostructured surfaces on stem cell fate

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Nanostructured Surfaces

3. Stem Cells within the Human Body and Their Use in Regenerative Medicine

4. Interactions of Nanostructured Surfaces and Stem Cells

5. Future Perspective

Acknowledgments

Chapter 22: Applications of aptamers for the diagnosis and therapy of different diseases

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Selection of Aptamers

3. Aptamers as Therapeutics

4. Challenges of Aptamers

5. Nanotechnology and Aptamers

6. Conclusions

Chapter 23: Recent progress in therapeutic diagnosis using photonic crystal nanostructures

Abstract

1. Introduction to Photonic Crystal Nanostructures

2. Origin of Photonic Bandgap

3. Photonic Crystal Slabs

4. Materials and Fabrication Methods

5. Introduction to Biosensors

6. PC Laser Biosensors and Lab-on-Chip Devices

7. Conclusions

Chapter 24: Novel carriers and approaches: insight for psoriasis management

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Types of Psoriasis

3. Pathogenesis of Psoriasis

4. Function of Cytokines

5. Treatment Approaches for Psoriasis

6. Novel Colloidal Carriers for Psoriasis Treatment

7. Lipid-Based Particulate Carriers

8. Emulsion-Based Carriers

9. Conclusions

Chapter 25: Use of nanostructures based on noble metals in nanobiomedicine

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Optical Properties of Metal Nanostructures

3. Applications in Biological Systems and Biomedicine

4. Summary

Chapter 26: Innovative nonviral vectors for small-interfering RNA delivery and therapy

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Obstacles to In Vivo siRNA Delivery: The Biological Barriers and the Immunological Response

3. Chemical Modifications of siRNA

4. siRNA Delivery Systems: Focus on Liposomes and Lipoplexes

5. Clinical Trials

6. Conclusions

Chapter 27: siRNA-based nucleoceuticals for tissue regeneration

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Heart Regeneration

3. Kidney Regeneration

4. Liver Regeneration

5. Ocular Regeneration

6. Peritoneal Fibrosis Regeneration

7. Cartilage Regeneration

8. Skin Regeneration

9. Bone Regeneration

10. Nerve Regeneration

11. Conclusions

Chapter 28: Bone tissue regenerative medicine via bioactive nanomaterials

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Synthetic Approaches for Bone Tissue Replacement

3. Nanomaterials as key Enablers of Bone Regeneration

4. Risks and Obstacles of Nanomaterials Applications

5. Perspectives and Outlooks

Acknowledgments

Chapter 29: Toxicity of nanostructures—a general approach

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Metallic Nanostructures

3. Nonmetallic Nanostructures

4. Conclusions

Chapter 30: Role of Excipients in formulation development and biocompatibility of lipid nanoparticles (SLNs/NLCs)

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Role of Excipients in SLNs and NLCs

3. Conclusions

Acknowledgment

Index

Copyright

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List of Contributors

Giorgia Adamo,     University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy

Andreea Aiacoboae,     University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Parvez Alam

University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Abo Akademi University, Turku, Finland

Ecaterina Andronescu,     University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Hiromichi Aono,     Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan

Ilaria Armentano,     Tuscia University, Viterbo, Italy

Danielle C. Arruda,     Minas Gerais Federal University, Belo Horizonte, Brasil

Petar A. Atanasov,     Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria

Fatemeh Atyabi,     Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Muhammad A. Azmi,     Isra University Karachi Campus, Karachi, Pakistan

Patrick Babczyk,     Bonn-Rhine-Sieg University of Applied Sciences, Rheinbach, Germany

Jalal Barzin,     Iran Polymer & Petrochemical Institute, Tehran, Iran

Gamze Bektas,     Private Clinic, Istanbul, Turkey

Luciano A. Benedini,     Southern National University, Bahía Blanca, Argentina

Pascal Bigey,     CNRS UMR 8258; INSERM UMR-S 1022; Paris Descartes University; Chimie ParisTech; Paris, France

Fernanda B. Borghi-Pangoni,     State University of Maringá, Maringá, Brazil

Lydia M. Bouchet,     National University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Argentina

Verónica Brunetti,     National University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Argentina

Marcos L. Bruschi,     State University of Maringá, Maringá, Brazil

Simona Campora,     University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy

Christine Charrueau,     CNRS UMR 8258; INSERM UMR-S 1022; Paris Descartes University; Chimie ParisTech; Paris, France

Murthy Y. Chavali,     Technology and Research University, Guntur, India

Mariana C. Chifiriuc,     Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), Bucharest, Romania

Anı Cinpolat,     Private Clinic, Istanbul, Turkey

Carmen Curutiu,     Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), Bucharest, Romania

Noelia L. D’Elía,     Southern National University, Bahía Blanca, Argentina

Nily Dan,     Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Sabrina B. de Souza Ferreira,     State University of Maringá, Maringá, Brazil

Corinne Dejous,     University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France

Tanmoy K. Dey,     University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India

Pubali Dhar,     University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India

Vijaya R. Dirisala,     Technology and Research University, Guntur, India

Slavomira Doktorovova,     University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal

Surbhi Dubey,     Dr. Hari Singh Gour Central University, Sagar, India

Fatma Elsayed,     Bonn-Rhine-Sieg University of Applied Sciences, Rheinbach, Germany

Fuyuaki Endo,     Keio University, Yokohama, Japan

Virginie Escriou,     CNRS UMR 8258; INSERM UMR-S 1022; Paris Descartes University; Chimie ParisTech; Paris, France

Abdol-Rahim Faramarzi,     Iran Polymer & Petrochemical Institute, Tehran, Iran

Eliana D. Farias,     National University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Argentina

Eelna Fortunati,     University of Perugia, Terni, Italy

Irina Gheorghe,     Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), Bucharest, Romania

Tania Gheorghe,     University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Giulio Ghersi,     University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy

Mohsen Gorji,     Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran

Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu

Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), Bucharest, Romania

University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Hamida Hallil,     University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France

Céline Hoffmann,     CNRS UMR 8258; INSERM UMR-S 1022; Paris Descartes University; Chimie ParisTech; Paris, France

Alina M. Holban

University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), Bucharest, Romania

Atsushi Hotta,     Keio University, Yokohama, Japan

Daniel Iglesias,     University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy

Cristina S¸. Iosub,     University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Mariana V. Junqueira,     State University of Maringá, Maringá, Brazil

Josè M. Kenny

University of Perugia, Terni, Italy

Institute of Polymer Science and Technology, CSIC, Madrid, Spain

Somayeh Khezrian,     University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

Sepideh Khoee,     University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

Stephanie E. Klein,     Bonn-Rhine-Sieg University of Applied Sciences, Rheinbach, Germany

Sengo Kobayashi,     Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan

Naruki Kurokawa,     Keio University, Yokohama, Japan

Iulia I. Lungu,     University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Tomoki Maeda,     Keio University, Yokohama, Japan

Silvia Marchesan,     University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy

Sabata Martino,     University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy

Samantha Mattioli,     University of Perugia, Terni, Italy

Paula V. Messina,     Southern National University, Bahía Blanca, Argentina

Hamid Mobedi,     Iran Polymer & Petrochemical Institute, Tehran, Iran

Nishi Mody,     Dr. Hari Singh Gour Central University, Sagar, India

Francesco Morena,     University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy

Fatemeh Mottaghitalab,     Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Deboshree Mukherjee,     CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India

Alieh Naraghi,     Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran

Sampath K. Nune,     Technology and Research University, Guntur, India

Elena Olăreţ,     University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Saeed Olyaee,     Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran

Ulvan Ozad,     Near East University Hospital, Nicosia, North Cyprus

Debjyoti Paul,     University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India

Vincent Raimbault

University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France

LAAS-CNRS, Toulouse, France

Krupanidhi S. Rama,     Technology and Research University, Guntur, India

Bolla G. Rao,     CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India

Ali Rastegari,     Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Benjaram M. Reddy,     CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India

Nicoletta Rescignano,     Institute of Polymer Science and Technology, CSIC, Madrid, Spain

Zumreta Rizvanovic,     Private Clinic, Istanbul, Turkey

Rajagopalan Rukkumani,     Pondicherry University, Kalapet, India

Avneet Saini,     Panjab University, Chandigarh, India

Dorothee Schipper,     Bonn-Rhine-Sieg University of Applied Sciences, Rheinbach, Germany

Margit Schulze,     Bonn-Rhine-Sieg University of Applied Sciences, Rheinbach, Germany

Kaneez F. Shad,     University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Sydney, NSW, Australia

Rajeev Sharma,     Dr. Hari Singh Gour Central University, Sagar, India

Ranjita Shegokar,     Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany

Jalpa Soni,     Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, India

Eliana B. Souto,     University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal

Miriam C. Strumia,     National University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Argentina

Hiromichi Takebe,     Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan

Edda Tobiasch,     Bonn-Rhine-Sieg University of Applied Sciences, Rheinbach, Germany

Luigi Torre,     University of Perugia, Terni, Italy

Gaurav Verma,     Panjab University, Chandigarh, India

George Vlasceanu,     University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Suresh P. Vyas,     Dr. Hari Singh Gour Central University, Sagar, India

Jatinder Vir Yakhmi,     Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushaktinagar, India

Saeki Yamamuro,     Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan

Foreword of the Series

Material science and engineering at the nanoscale have brought revolutionary advances to the biomedical sciences, overturning many of the known traditional approaches. Nanotechnology has driven many of the most successful innovative technologies, and their impressive record of accomplishment has made nanostructures promising candidates for future therapy. The advantages that nanomaterials have already provided to therapeutics, such as targeted and controlled delivery, wide accessibility, high specificity, low side effects, improved efficiency, and impressive versatility are currently considered key elements in designing personalized medicine approaches for prophylaxis, diagnosis, and therapy.

Therapeutic nanostructures can be highly diverse, and their unique properties have led to the development of highly specialized biosensors, more efficient drug delivery vehicles, and controlled release targeting systems to fight severe or incurable diseases, such as cancer, infections, and cardiovascular disease.

In view of the astounding progress made in the field of therapeutic nanotechnology, and its rapidly progressing expansion, this book aims to collect together in one place all the most recent and innovative aspects regarding the impact of nanomaterials in both current and future therapy. The book is organized in five volumes, covering the main areas that are relevant for the design and implementation of nanostructures in medical therapies.

The first volume, Nanostructures for Novel Therapy: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications describes methods to obtain and characterize nanosystems, emphasizing their biomedical applications. Special attention in this volume was paid to modern synthesis methods to reduce side effects and limit the toxicity of nanomaterials in biomedical applications. Numerous examples of nanostructures designed for therapy, as well as the most efficient synthesis and characterization routes for these materials are clearly described and critically analyzed.

The second volume, entitled Nanostructures for Drug Delivery covers one of the most widely utilized and investigated applications of nanomaterials in the biomedical field, namely drug delivery. The design of nanoscale agents in order to specifically and safely carry therapeutic agents to their final destination is an intriguing approach to future targeted therapeutics. This approach could provide a treatment for previously incurable diseases, as well as reducing the side effects of current drugs. Many highly active drugs are severely limited by side effects related to their unspecific sites of action. This book introduces the readers to the amazing field of nanomedicine by discussing the versatility and variety of nanovehicles for drug delivery and targeting. Moreover, readers will find numerous examples, and will learn about the currently used or investigational drug delivery agents for therapy, prophylaxis, and diagnosis.

The third volume, Nanostructures for Antimicrobial Therapy highlights the impressive progress made by nanotechnology in the design of novel antimicrobial approaches. Since microbial resistance to antibiotics is a very real and worrying issue growing throughout the world, the development of more efficient antimicrobial agents has a high priority to allow control of infections in the future. Antimicrobial nanosystems have proved to be highly efficient against drug-resistant microorganisms, are able to fight biofilm-associated infections and control the social behavior of microbial communities. Nanostructures can also reduce microbial virulence factors and reduce pathogenesis mechanisms thus offering a promising alternative for future therapy.

The fourth volume, entitled Nanostructures for Cancer Therapy covers the applications of nanomedicine in cancer diagnosis and treatment. The use of nanoparticles for cancer therapy is not in itself a new approach, but numerous advances have been recently made in this area, and the aim of this book is to cover the most interesting new approaches in the management of this deadly disease. Nanosized drugs are currently believed to represent the most efficient approach in cancer chemotherapy, and this volume provides coverage of the latest novel findings, while also discussing possible improvements in more established types of nanosystems to increase the efficiency of cancer therapy.

Last but not least, the fifth volume of this series entitled Nanostructures for Oral Medicine covers the progress made in applications of nanotechnology in treating various diseases of the oral cavity and in dentistry. Readers will have the chance to learn about the most efficient modern materials used to treat or to prevent widely encountered oral diseases, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, caries, and dental plaque. Moreover, restorative dentistry also now makes wide use of nanomaterials.

Overall, this book series will provide a state-of-the-art compendium of knowledge, and a crystal ball to see into the future of biomedical nanotechology and nanomedicine. It will appeal to researchers, clinicians, engineers, pharmacologists, pharmacists, oncologists, infectious disease experts, and dentists. More many interested general readers may discover the impact, current progress and future applications of nanotechnology in therapeutics and diagnosis. Taken together, nanoscale approaches will improve the efficiency of personalized medicine for better management of diseases in the 21st century.

Michael R. Hamblin

Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States

Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States

Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States

Preface

About the Series (Volumes I–V)

In our permanently changing world, novel therapeutics are constantly required to manage health and well-being of population. Although numerous diseases are currently considered incurable, impressive progress made in biomedicine and associated fields, such as chemistry, physics, engineering, pharmacology, and materials science, offers a new light to the therapeutics domain. In this context, most physicists and researchers believe that a personalized and adequate treatment may significantly improve the outcome of severe diseases and ensure a faster healing. Nanotechnology offers great perspectives for personalized medicine, since nanostructured therapeutics proved their efficiency and amazing impact in improving therapy, prophylaxis, and diagnosis. The emerging field of nanosized materials has numerous applications in the biomedical field, especially in therapy. This series of five volumes came out by the need of learning about recent progress of the science of nanostructured materials to improve current therapy and led to the next level. The books offer an interesting and updated perspective regarding applications of nanomaterials in therapy of most-investigated and difficult-to-treat diseases, such as cancer and severe infections. The presentation approach of each chapter contained in these five volumes is clear and easy to understand by most readers and interesting for biomedical specialists, researchers, and engineers. The series is organized in an attractive manner for students and academics on the field, starting with a volume dealing with the synthesis, characterization, and main applications of nanostructures, emphasizing on their impact in therapy. Next volume reveals the most recent progress made on a very investigated field, which is considered a key element in personalized medicine and future therapy, namely nanostructured drug-delivery systems. Their impact in antimicrobial therapy is also widely discussed and suggestive examples are given and explained. Moreover, a whole volume is dedicated to the management of the disease of the century—cancer—revealing the huge value added by the utilization of nanosystems in the therapy of this deadly disease. Important aspects related to improved diagnosis and prophylaxis are highlighted. In the last volume, the progress and novel applications of nanotechnology in oral medicine are dissected. The field of oral diseases represents a wide-interest and priority field since both physicists and researchers believe that they can be prevented and treated more easily with targeting systems and nanofunctional prosthetics. All chapters are clearly illustrated to highlight important or more difficult-to-understand aspects and suggestive examples are often enumerated in organized tables, which are explained and discussed. Overall, the series contains very recent but accessible information regarding the progress of nanostructures in therapeutics and gives a novel perspective about future therapy of severe diseases.

Alexandru M. Grumezescu

University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

About Volume I

First volume of the series Therapeutic nanostructures introduces the readers in the amazing field of nanostructured size materials, describing types, synthesis and characterization approaches, and emphasizing on their applications. The utility of nanosized materials in the biomedical field is highly influenced by the physicochemical properties of nanostructured materials utilized for therapy. Therefore, knowing their qualities ensure a more successful approach in designing effective agents for the management of a particular disease. This book offers an updated perspective regarding the most interesting advances of nanoarchitectured therapeutics, discusses the wide variety of their synthesis routes, preferential functionalities, and most supported applications for the design of future therapeutics.

Volume I contains 30 chapters, prepared by outstanding international researchers from USA, Brazil, Argentina, Australia, Portugal, Spain, Finland, France, Italy, Germany, Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey, Cyprus, Iran, Pakistan, India, Taiwan, China, and Japan.

In Chapter 1, entitled Novel Approaches for Preparation of Nanoparticles, Bolla Govinda Rao et al., give an overview about new developments in various preparation methodologies for the fabrication of nanoparticles. Also, this first chapter offers a great introductory basis in the design of functional nanostructures aimed for particular purposes.

Andreea Aiacoboae et al., in Chapter 2, entitled Applications of Nanoscale Drugs Carriers in the Treatment of Chronic Diseases, discuss about smart nanosized drug-delivery systems which made or have the potential to make a great impact in the management of chronic illness. The fact that numerous nanosystems are able to respond to various stimuli, such as pH, temperature, light, ultrasounds, electrical, and magnetical fields, make them special candidates for targeted and efficient therapy. The chapter discusses most investigated examples of nanoparticles which are under consideration for nanotherapy, such as gold nanoparticles (NPs), silver NPs, magnetic NPs, quantum dots, and mesoporous silica NPs, useful in targeting and delivering applications.

Chapter 3, prepared by Giorgia Adamo et al., entitled Functionalization of Nanoparticles in Specific Targeting and Mechanism Release, reviews the potential of smart multifunctional nanostructures as customizable, targeted drug-delivery vehicles capable of carrying large doses of therapeutic agents into target cells. Covalent and noncovalent chemical linking using different molecules have been reported for nanoparticles surface functionalization, since this approach confers them specific properties, such as more specific targeting ability.

In Chapter 4, entitled Fabrication and Characterization of Natural/Synthesized, Micro-, and Nanostructured Materials for Biomedical Applications, prepared by Hiromichi Takebe et al., is presented an up-to-date overview about the preparation of modified micro/nanoparticles such as, magnetic oxide nanoparticles for thermal coagulation therapy, iron oxide nanocubes and their shape-induced self-assembly and micro/submicrosized, imprinted inorganic glasses for nanointegration. This chapter is a great opportunity to review the properties of most investigated nanosystems for biomedical applications.

In chapter 5, entitled Multifunctional Nanostructured Biopolymeric Materials for Therapeutic Applications, prepared by Armentano et al., is revealed the current state and future prospects of the new generation of multifunctional bionanomaterials, based on different natural or synthetic biopolymers, together with their role in development of personalized therapy.

Chapter 6, entitled Polymeric Pharmaceutical Nanoparticles Developed by Electrospray, prepared by Faramarzi et al., gives an overview about advantages and disadvantages, basic principles and production methods of electrospray based approaches.

Debjyoti Paul et al., in Chapter 7, entitled Nanoformulation and Administration of PUFA-Rich Systems for Applications in Modern Healthcare, explore the realms of nanotechnology that deals with the fabrication methods of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) rich nanoformulations, the holistic changes in stability, bioavailability, and bioactivity as a consequence of different administration routes (oral, topical, and parenteral) of such nanosystems.

Naruki Kurokawa et al., in Chapter 8, entitled Electrospinning and Surface Modification Methods for Functionalized Cell Scaffolds, present an extensive overview of effective techniques for making optimal scaffolds, including electrospinning and surface modification methods.

Daniel Iglesias, et al., in Chapter 9, entitled Short Peptide Self-Assembled Nanostructures for Therapeutics Innovative Delivery, described the high innovation potential offered by self-assembling short peptides in the field of drug delivery. Several options for such use are possible, ranging from physical drug entrapment in the hydrogel matrix, through drug noncovalent binding to the supramolecular structure by the covalent binding of the drug to the self-assembling building block.

Avneet Saini et al., in Chapter 10, entitled Peptoids: Tomorrow’s Therapeutics, summarize the recent research efforts in the field of peptoid biopolymers from synthesis to folded structural motifs. Also, the authors present their major biological applications discovered in the last two decades.

Chapter 11, prepared by N.S. Sampath Kumar, Electrospinning of Collagen Nanofiber Scaffolds for Tissue Repair and Regeneration, provide information about tissue repair and regeneration using biomimetic scaffolds and a brief overview of state-of-the-art methods for fabricating nanofibrous scaffolds, including phase-separation, freeze-drying, self-assembly, and electrospinning.

Chapter 12, entitled Nanostructured Therapeutic Systems With Bioadhesive and Thermoresponsive Properties, prepared by Marcos Luciano Bruschi et al., discussed the importance, applications, and perspectives of Mucoadhesive Thermoresponsive Systems as potentially useful therapeutic approach.

Chapter 13, entitled Design Considerations in the Development of Wound Healing Bionanomaterials, prepared by Parvez Alam et al., provide a comprehensive overview about fundamental considerations in the design of bionanomaterials with a focus on skin properties, material types, surface structures and methods for nanofabrication.

In the Chapter 14, Role of Nanostructure Molecules in Enhancing the Bioavailability of Oral Drugs, prepared by Muhammad Ahmed Azmi et al., the main focus is on the role of nanostructured molecules in the enhancement of the bioavailability of drugs. The authors show recent results for different compounds, which are promising candidates for anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, antifertility, anticytogenesis, and anticancer responses.

Chapter 15, prepared by Ulvan Ozad, entitled Improvement Steps of Plastic Surgery to Tissue Engineering by Nanotechnology, give an overview about the application of nanotechnology in plastic and reconstructive surgery field. The effects of nanotechnology are observed in numerous such procedures; ranging from the nanomaterials used in implantable materials to wound closure, wound healing, and wound dressing, emphasizing on tissue engineering and regeneration.

Eliana D. Farías et al., in Chapter 16, entitled Dendrimers and Dendronized Materials as Nanocarriers, describe general characteristics of dendrimers and dendronized materials, synthetic methodologies and their properties. Successful applications of dendrimers and novel dendritic structures to obtain efficient nanocarriers are also discussed.

Petar A. Atanasov, in Chapter 17, entitled Gold Nanostructures: Preparation, Properties, Application in SERS, and Biophotonics, present an up to date overview about the development of several advanced methods for fabrication of nanoparticles and nanosized arrays and examples of their application in SERS and biophotonics. Also, advanced laser systems which are used for controlling and manipulating the properties of the structures are presented and dissected.

Chapter 18, entitled Quantum Dots for Bioimaging and Therapeutic Applications, prepared by George Vlasceanu et al., presents an up to date review about Quantum Dots synthesis methods and bioimaging techniques, with the focus on the latter. Bioimaging emerged as a relatively recent field, as the integration of chemistry, physics, and biology in an intricate overlapping. This intriguing field proved a great impact in modern therapeutics and the potential for future therapy seems endless.

Nily Dan et al., in Chapter 19, entitled Lipid-Based Synthetic Gene Carriers, review the equilibrium properties of lipoplexes and the kinetics pathways for their formation. Better understanding of lipoplex formation can not only lead to the design of effective nucleic acid lipoplex-based gene delivery or silencing agents, but is also of interest as a fundamental multicomponent, multilength scale, and multitime scale process.

Chapter 20 prepared by Corinne Dejous et al., Using Microsensors to Promote Development of Innovative Therapeutic Nanostructures, gives an overview of the existing micro- and nanosensors, and their principles and describe microsensors that can be developed for fast evaluation of efficiency and toxicity of innovative therapeutic nanostructures. The authors also describe their key applications and analytical techniques employed.

D. Schipper et al., in Chapter 21, entitled The effect of Nanostructured Surfaces on Stem Cell Fate, present details about the chemical structure of various nanomaterials used as scaffolds for stem cell differentiation including bulk and surface properties and corresponding analytical methods for surface characterization. Furthermore, the authors present recently developed methods for the design of tailored nanomaterials used in stem cell differentiation.

Chapter 22, prepared by Sepideh Khoee, entitled Applications of Aptamers for the Diagnosis and Therapy of Different Diseases, gives an up to date overview about aptamers and their application as biotechnological tools in biosensor development and therapeutic agents for drug delivery and diagnosis of diseases.

Chapter 23, entitled Recent Progress in Therapeutic Diagnosis Using Photonic Crystal Nanostructures, prepared by Saeed Olyaee, discusses about photonic crystals and their properties, as well as the fabrication procedure. The chapter presents several demonstrations using photonic crystals and their laser biosensors module, as lab on chip devices.

Chapter 24, prepared by Surbhi Dubey, entitled Novel Carriers and Approaches: Insight for Psoriasis Management, presents recent progress in the field of psoriasis in terms of pathogenesis, role of cytokines, currently available treatment options pertaining to mode of action, pharmacokinetics, major hindrances in psoriasis treatment, side effects of individual antipsoriatic drugs, and recent developments in the delivery of various antipsoriatic drugs through lipid-based novel colloidal drug carriers. Recent nano-based approaches bring a new light in the management of this disease.

Jalpa Soni et al., in Chapter 25, entitled Use of Nanostructures Based on Noble Metals in Nanobiomedicine, present new developments in the nanobiotechnology with a general overview on the impact of various types of nanostructures based on noble metals for various biomedical applications.

Chapter 26, entitled Innovative Nonviral Vectors for Small-Interfering RNA Delivery and Therapy, prepared by Danielle Campiol Arruda, introduces the biological barriers to siRNA delivery in vivo and discusses recent advances in material sciences, nanotechnology, and nucleic acid chemistry that have yielded promising nonviral delivery systems, some of which are currently undergoing testing in clinical trials. The diversity of these systems highlights the recent progress of siRNA-based therapy using nonviral approaches.

Ali Rastegari et al., in Chapter 27, entitled siRNA-Based Nucleoceuticals for Tissue Regeneration, provide an in-depth discussion of the development of siRNA-based nucleoceuticals for tissue engineering applications.

Paula V. Messina et al., in Chapter 28, entitled Bone Tissue Regenerative Medicine Via Bioactive Nanomaterials, summarize the most recent developments related to the application of nanomaterials to the bone regenerative medicine and discusses their commercialization projection in consideration to their toxicological risks.

Chapter 29, prepared by Stefana Iosub et al., entitled Toxicity of Nanostructures—A General Approach, provides a general picture of the toxicological responses that nanomaterials can generate. Beside the size and the concentration of nanoparticles, there are several factors that influence their cytotoxicity, such as: aggregation state, shape, chemistry, biodistribution, etc. However, the toxic effects could be diminished by capping or coating the nanoparticles with various molecules to enhance their biocompatibility, which also may increase their specificity.

Chapter 30, entitled Role of Excipients in Formulation Development and Biocompatibility of Lipid Nanoparticles, prepared by Slavomira Doktorovova, discusses the role of excipients in the production of lipid nanoparticles. An overview of commonly used and upcoming promising excipients, which can facilitate the development of lipid nanoparticles and lipid-based formulations, is presented. A review of new research outcomes and market status of lipid nanoparticles is also addressed in this chapter.

Denisa Ficai

University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Alexandru M. Grumezescu

University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania

Chapter 1

Novel approaches for preparation of nanoparticles

Bolla G. Rao

Deboshree Mukherjee

Benjaram M. Reddy    CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India

Abstract

There is a detonation of interest and investment in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology over the last few years. The nanoscience revolution is one of the biggest things to happen since the beginning of modern science, and it is nowadays at the center of future technological progress owing to the increasing ability to manipulate the matter on the nanometer scale. One of the important driving forces for the rapidly developing field of nanoparticle synthesis is the distinctly different physicochemical properties exhibited by the nanoparticles compared to their bulk counterparts. It may be due to the surface effect, small size effect, quantum size effect, and so on which open up new opportunities for the development of materials with unusual or tailored properties. Like nanomaterials, bulk materials also exhibit surface dependent properties but these are dominant in the case of nanoparticles only because they possess a vast surface area per unit volume and a high proportion of atoms at the surface and near surface layers rather than in the particle interior. Many properties of the nanoparticles are directly connected to their small size. The small size leads to many distinct properties, which influence the lattice symmetry and cell parameters.

Properties of the materials are largely dependent on the size and morphology, due to this the control over the synthetic methodologies became an issue. This is because the growth of the materials in nanoscale is largely dependent on the thermodynamic and kinetic barriers in the reaction as defined by the reaction trajectory and influenced by vacancies, defects, and surface reconstructions. The simultaneous control of particle size and shape together with their uniformity is one of the key objectives in many synthetic procedures. In the present chapter, new developments in various preparation methodologies for the fabrication of nanoparticles are addressed.

Keywords

metal nanoparticles

metal oxides

sol–gel

microwave-induced

hydrothermal

solvothermal

theranostics

biomedical applications

diagnosis

drug delivery

Chapter Outline

1 Introduction

1.1 Evolution of Metal Nanoparticles in Pharmacy and Biotechnology

2 Synthetic Methods for Preparation of Metal Nanoparticles

2.1 Thermal Decomposition Method

2.2 Sol–Gel Method

2.3 Hydrothermal and Solvothermal Method

2.4 Microwave-Assisted Method

2.5 Polyol Method

2.6 Sonochemical Method

2.7 Liquid–Liquid Interface Method

2.8 Phase-Transfer Method

2.9 Biosynthesis Method

2.10 Template-Directed Synthetic Method

3 Application of Metal Nanoparticles in Theranostics

3.1 Diagnosis and Drug Delivery

4 Conclusions

References

1. Introduction

Since the beginning of the 21st century, with the rising concern of multidrug resistance and scarcity of new antibiotics, the use of metal nanoparticles (NPs) in medicine is undergoing renaissance. In contrast to bulk, nanomaterials exhibit huge surface area per unit volume and tunable optical, electronic, magnetic, and biological properties. Metal NPs can be engineered to have different sizes, shapes, and surface characteristics. The size and shape tunable properties of metal nanoparticles and their wide scope of applicability in pharmacy and biotechnology have drawn global attention toward their size and shape-controlled synthesis. However, while dealing with metal nanoparticle synthesis, few things should be considered seriously. First, the chosen method must be simple, less expensive, ecofriendly, and commercially viable. Second, the simultaneous control of particle size and shape along with their uniformity is another key objective (Kwon and Hyeon, 2008). Moreover, the NPs are kinetically unstable, they should be stabilized against aggregation into larger particles (Richter et al., 2010). Micelles, polymers, and coordinative ligands are frequently used as stabilizers to control the growth of NPs (Kim et al., 2004). Solution-based nanofabrication methods usually offer more control and reproducibility over the metal NPs. A wide range of nanofabrication methods, including precipitation, deposition-precipitation, sol–gel, liquid–liquid interface technique, hydrothermal and solvothermal syntheses, microwave-assisted processes, polyol method, template-directed synthesis, ionic-liquid assisted methods, and so on are reported in the literature. In this chapter, the frequently used fabrication techniques are addressed in detail with appropriate literature references. A careful study of their usefulness and drawbacks with special importance on the laboratory scale synthesis has also been discussed with appropriate illustrations.

1.1. Evolution of Metal Nanoparticles in Pharmacy and Biotechnology

Medicinal application of metals is already known from the ancient time. The Ebers Papyrus from 1500 BC is the earliest written account of the use of metals for treatment and describes more than 800 recipes. It has mentioned the use of copper to reduce inflammation and the use of iron to treat anemia. Sushruta Samhita, the ancient book on Indian Ayurvedic treatment methodology written around 7th century BC, mentioned the use of some primary metals like gold, silver, copper, lead, tin, zinc, and iron in medicines (Prakash, 1997). Sodium vanadate has also been used since the early 20th century to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Antimicrobial properties of metals are also known, and have been in use for thousands of years. For example, copper and silver vessels have been used for water disinfection and food preservation since the time of the Persian kings. This practice was later adopted by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians (Alexander, 2009). Settlers of North America used to drop Ag coins into transport containers to preserve water, wine, milk, and vinegar, and a similar strategy was used by Japanese soldiers during the Second World War to prevent the spread of dysentery (Borkow and Gabbay, 2009). The medicinal use of metals was prevalent until the discovery of antibiotics by Nobel laureate Sir Alexander Fleming in the 1920s.

Reducing the metal particle size to nanorange (<100 nm), however, has been demonstrated as an efficient and reliable tool for improving biocompatibility (Taton et al., 2000). Earlier studies have shown that antimicrobial formulations in the form of NPs could be used as effective bactericidal materials (Fresta et al., 1995). Later on, it was revealed that highly reactive metal oxide NPs exhibit excellent biocidal action against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (Stoimenov et al., 2002). Zero-valent metal nanoparticles like, Au, Ag, and FeNPs, as well as, metal oxide NPs like, zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO2), magnesium oxide (MgO), etc., exhibit bactericidal activity and have been found to be stable and safe for human beings (Lemire et al., 2013). The intrinsic properties and related possible applications of different metal NPs are mainly dependent on their size, shape, composition, crystallinity, and morphology (Dickson and Lyon, 2000). NP toxicity may arise from several attributes, which include the traits that are specific to the properties of the NPs, such as size, shape, or surface charge, and traits that control the release of metal ions (El Badawy et  al.,  2011; Morones et  al.,  2005; Pal et  al.,  2007). The toxic mode of action of NPs has also been connected with the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and membrane disruption (Fig. 1.1) (Bandyopadhyay et  al.,  2012; Gunawan et  al.,  2011). A striking capability that has been reported for many NPs is their ability to physically interact with the cell surfaces of some bacteria. For example, Fe-reducing bacteria that naturally accumulate NPs of ferric oxyhydroxide at their cell surface (Fig. 1.2) can be exploited in targeting a specific bacterial cell (Luef et al., 2013). However, a large number of reports in the literature indicate that the driving force behind the antimicrobial properties of antibacterial NPs is the release of ions (Xiu et al., 2012). Tactically designed NPs, which release ions in a controlled manner or can be targeted to specific bacterial cells, have numerous antimicrobial applications and bagged a business of US$17.5 billion in the year 2011 in global market (Lemire et al., 2013).

Figure 1.1   Antibacterial Mechanisms of Metal Toxicity

(A) Metals can lead to protein dysfunction. (B) Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depletion of antioxidants. (C) Certain metals have been shown to impair membrane function. (D) Interference with nutrient assimilation. (E) They can also be genotoxic. Solid arrows represent elucidated biochemical mechanism, whereas, dashed arrows represent a route of toxicity for which the underlying biochemical mechanism is unclear. ALAD, δ-Aminolevulinic acid dehydratase; FbaA, fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase; NQR, NADH; quinone oxidoreductase; PDF, peptide deformylase; PvdS, a σ-factor (σ24) from Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Reprinted with permission from Lemire, J.A., Harrison, J.J., Raymond, J., 2013. Antimicrobial activity of metals: mechanisms, molecular targets and applications. Nat. Rev. Microbiol. 11, 371–384. Copyright 2013, Macmillan Publishers Limited.

Figure 1.2   (A) The figure shows cryo-TEM image of a single cell planktonic Fe-reducing bacterium isolated from groundwater at a site in Rifle, Colorado, USA. (B) A 3-D construction of nanoaggregates [orange (mid-gray in print version)] attached to the groundwater bacterium cell wall (Luef et al., 2013). Reprinted with permission from Bao, Y., An, W., Turner, C.W., Krishnan, K.M., 2010. The critical role of surfactants in the growth of cobalt nanoparticles. Langmuir 26, 478–483. Copyright 2013, International Society for Microbial Ecology.

Metal and metal oxide NPs have also found applications in advanced techniques of therapeutics, diagnosis, and drug delivery. For example, there are a wide range of paramagnetic metal NPs, mostly but not exclusively based on iron; when an external magnetic field is applied, these NPs become magnetic themselves, and align themselves with the direction of the external field, showing up as a hypoexposed region on an MRI scan (Edmundson et al., 2003). Iron-based magnetic NPs, such as Feridex, have mostly been used in in vitro or in vivo experiments, for example, in tracking the movement of stem cells implanted into a wound site (Okada et al., 2005). In recent times, nanometer-sized crystals made of metallic or semiconductor materials, known as quantum dots have gained much popularity in synthetic biology (Nath and Banerjee, 2013).

Shape-dependent optical activity of the metal NPs has brought a revolution in the field of bioimaging and diagnosis. Huang and coworkers demonstrated that due to longitudinal absorption band in the near infrared (NIR), Au-nanorods are effective in acoustic imaging and are suitable as photothermal agents for hyperthermia therapy of cancer cells. Small diameter Au-nanorods are being used as photothermal converters of near infrared radiation (NIR) for in vivo applications due to their high absorption cross-sections beyond the tissue absorption spectra (Huang et al., 2006a,b). Gold nanocages and nanoframes developed by Xia and coworkers also exhibit potential biomedical applications due to their desirable optical properties and cargo-holding hollow structures (Skrabalak et al., 2008). Silica-gold core–shell NPs, or gold nanoshells, have attracted much attention due to their interesting optical properties and numerous biomedical applications. Aden and Kerker (1951) predicted that concentric spherical particles could exhibit tunable plasmon resonance which vary as a function of the ratio of shell thickness to core radius. Other gold nanostructures, such as Au-nanoshells, Au-nanocages, and spherical AuNPs have also demonstrated effective photothermal destruction of cancer cells and tissue (Conde et al., 2011). Novel optical properties of other related structures, such as asymmetric nanoeggs and quadruply concentric nanomatryushkas have also been explored (Wang et al., 2007).

2. Synthetic Methods for Preparation of Metal Nanoparticles

2.1. Thermal Decomposition Method

Thermal decomposition method is an excellent synthetic route to fabricate metal NPs. This method is facile and involves single step process. It is inexpensive, environmentally benign, and provides higher quality of metal NPs in terms of morphology, size, and particle-size distribution (Luo et al., 2009). It is a well-known fact from literature that, nucleation step and particle growth are the crucial factors to achieve monodisperse NPs (Kashchiev and van Rosmalen, 2003). The size and shape of the NP can be tuned in thermal decomposition method by controlling the previously mentioned factors by the use of appropriate surfactants. This method involves thermal decomposition of organometallic precursor, like metal carbonyls and metal surfactant complex in solution resulting in metallic NPs (Kwon and Hyeon, 2008). For example, Bao et al. (2010) have synthesized monodisperse cobalt NPs using CO2(CO)8 as the precursor and oleic acid (OA), tri-n-octylphosphine oxide (TOPO), and di-n-octylamine (DOA) as the surfactants. Fig. 1.3 shows the TEM images of CoNPs at different time periods in the presence of OA and TOPO surfactants. The particle size was found to rapidly increase with respect to time period. Growth pathway was also investigated in terms of the influence of the surfactant. Combination of OA and TOPO provides diffusional growth pathway, whereas OA and DOA combination and TOPO alone allowed aggregation and ripening growth pathways, respectively. In a similar way, metallic Cu and PdNPs were prepared using precursors, copper cupferronate Cu(cupf)2 complex, and Pd–trioctylphosphine complex, respectively in the presence of trioctylphosphine (TOP) and DOA surfactant. The concentration of stabilizing or capping agent (TOP) played a vital role in controlling the particle size (Diab et  al.,  2011; Kim et  al.,  2003).

Figure 1.3   TEM Images of Co Nanoparticles (NPs) in the Presence of Surfactants OA and TOPO at Different Stages

(A) 1, (B) 5, (C) 10, (D) 15, and (E) 30 min. (F) High resolution of TEM image of Co NPs. Reprinted with permission from Bao, Y., An, W., Turner, C.W., Krishnan, K.M., 2010. The critical role of surfactants in the growth of cobalt nanoparticles. Langmuir 26, 478–483. Copyright 2010, American Chemical Society.

Chen et al. (2007) have reported the preparation of monodisperse spherical NiNPs via thermal decomposition of nickel (II) acetylacetonate (Ni (acac)2) complex in the presence of various alkyl amines. Reaction temperature and solvent type exhibit profound influence on the crystalline phase of NiNPs, whereas, surfactants played a significant role in controlling the particle size as well as morphology. Kura et al. (2010) successfully synthesized monodisperse FeNPs with high saturation magnetization from Fe(CO)x-OAm precursor, in which CO ligands are partially replaced with OAm. During the course of the reaction the precursor decomposed and yielded monodispersed FeNPs. However, OAm played a significant role as a ligand and surfactant to produce small Fe particles by covering the surface of the metal particle.

Kim et al. (2007) have reported the synthesis of hollow iron nanoframes by thermal decomposition of Fe (II)–oleate complex, yielding uniform size Fe nanocubes in the presence of oleic acid. Fig. 1.4 shows various morphologies of iron and inset shows the HRTEM image of FeNPs. However, the addition of a little amount of sodium oleate to the reaction solution, resulted in a remarkable change in the morphology of FeNPs, that is, nanocubes to nanoframes. Therefore, it is believed that sodium oleate played a significant role in controlling the morphology of the Fe NPs and the obtained Fe nanoframes showed exceptional biomedical applications, especially in drug delivery. A wide variety of bimetallic NPs have also been prepared by thermal decomposition method (Samia et al., 2006). For instance, Cu–Pt bimetallic NPs with 1.2-nm size were synthesized by thermolysis of corresponding metal precursors—Pt(acac)2 and Cu(acac)2 at 498 K under oleylamine (Zheng et al., 2003). EXAFS studies revealed that, Pt atoms occupied the Cu sites. Charge transfer from Cu to Pt was observed during the formation of Cu–Pt bimetallic system. Kang and Murray (2010) have reported the synthesis of Mn–Pt bimetallic nanocubes using [Mn(acac)2] or Mn2(CO)10 with platinum acetylacetonate [Pt(acac)2] in the presence of oleylamine and oleic acid stabilizers.

Figure 1.4   TEM Images of FeNPs

(A) 23-nm sized spheres with slightly faceted shape, (B) 21-nm sized nanocubes, (C) 21-nm sized nanoframes (inset HRTEM), (D) 17-nm sized particles with intermediate shape between solid and hollow nanocubes (inset HRTEM), (E) the overall shape evolution of the Fe nanoparticles. Reprinted with permission from Kim, D., Park, J., An, K.,Yang, N.K., Park, J.G., Hyeon, T., 2007. Synthesis of hollow iron nanoframes. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 129, 5812–5813. Copyright 2007, American Chemical Society.

2.2. Sol–Gel Method

Sol–gel method is one of the well-established synthetic approaches to prepare novel metal oxide NPs as well as mixed oxide composites. This method has potential control over the textural and surface properties of the materials. Sol–gel method mainly undergoes in few steps to deliver the final metal oxide protocols and those are hydrolysis, condensation, and drying process. The formation of metal oxide involves different consecutive steps, initially the corresponding metal precursor undergoes rapid hydrolysis to produce the metal hydroxide solution, followed by immediate condensation which leads to the formation of three-dimensional gels. Afterward, obtained gel is subjected to drying process, and the resulting product is readily converted to Xerogel or Aerogel based on the mode of drying. Sol–gel method can be classified into two routes, such as aqueous sol–gel and nonaqueous sol–gel method depending on the nature of the solvent utilized.

If water is used as reaction medium it is known as aqueous sol–gel method; and use of organic solvent as reaction medium for sol–gel process is termed as nonaqueous sol–gel route. The reaction pathway for the production of metal oxide nanostructures in the sol–gel method is shown in Fig. 1.5. In the sol–gel approach, nature of metal precursor and solvent plays a remarkable role in the synthesis of metal oxides NPs.

Figure 1.5   The Reaction Pathway for the Production of Metal Oxide Nanostructures in the Sol–Gel Method

2.2.1. Aqueous sol–gel method

In aqueous sol–gel method, oxygen is necessary for the formation of metal oxide, which is supplied by the water solvent. Generally, metal acetates, nitrates, sulfates, chlorides, and metal alkoxides are employed as the metal precursors for this method. However, metal alkoxides are widely used as the precursors for the production of metal oxide NPs, due to high reaction affinity of alkoxides toward water (Bradley et  al.,  2001; Turova and Turevskaya,  2002). However, some difficulties are associated with the aqueous sol–gel method. The key steps, such as hydrolysis, condensation, and drying take place simultaneously in a number of cases resulting in difficulty in controlling particle morphology, and reproducibility of the final protocol during the sol–gel process (Corriu and Leclercq, 1996). The aforementioned difficulties, however, do not affect much of the synthesis of metal oxides in bulk, but strongly affect the preparation of nanooxides. Therefore, it is believed that the aqueous sol–gel route is highly recommended for the synthesis of bulk metal oxides rather than their nanoscale counterparts (Niederberger, 2007).

2.2.2. Nonaqueous sol–gel method

Nonaqueous or nonhydrolytic sol–gel method is devoid of some of the major drawbacks found in aqueous sol–gel method. In nonaqueous sol–gel process, oxygen required for the formation of metal oxide is supplied from the solvents, such as alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, or by the metal precursors. Furthermore, these organic solvents not only serve as oxygen providers but also offer a versatile tool for tuning several key components like morphology, surface properties, particle size, and composition of the final oxide material. Although, nonaqueous sol–gel approach is not as popular as aqueous sol–gel method; nonaqueous sol–gel routes have shown excellent impact on the production of nanooxides compared to that of aqueous sol–gel route. The nonaqueous sol–gel route can be divided into two important methodologies, namely, surfactant-controlled and solvent-controlled approaches for the production of metal oxide NPs. Surfactant-controlled strategy involves direct transformation of metal precursor into the respective metal oxide at higher temperature range in hot injection method. This method permits outstanding control over the shape, growth of the NP, and avoids the agglomeration of particles. Few examples of surfactant-controlled synthesized NPs are mentioned here for understanding. Song and Zhang (2004) have demonstrated the simple nonhydrolytic route to synthesize high-quality spherical-shaped CoFe2O4 NPs with 8-nm size. However, the spherical morphology can be changed to cubic shape with 10-nm edge length during the seed-mediated growth. Heating rate and growth temperature played a pivotal role in controlling the shape of CoFe2O4 nanomaterial (Fig. 1.6A–B).

Figure 1.6   TEM images of (A) 8-nm sized spherical CoFe2O4 NPs and (B) cube-like CoFe2O4 NPs. TEM images of (C) cube-like and (D) polyhedron-shaped MnFe2O4NPs. (E) TEM image of MnO multipods (inset, hexapod). (F) TEM image of Tungsten oxide nanorods. Part (A–B): Reproduced from Song, Q., Zhang, Z.J., 2004. Shape control and associated magnetic properties of spinel cobalt ferrite nanocrystals. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 126, 6164–6168. Copyright 2004, American Chemical Society. Part (C–D): Reprinted from Zeng, H., Rice, P.M., Wang, S.X., Sun, S.H., 2004. Shape-controlled synthesis and shape-induced texture of MnFe2O4 nanoparticles. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 126, 11458–11459. Copyright 2004, American Chemical Society. Part (E): Reproduced from Zitoun, D., Pinna, N., Frolet, N., Belin, C., 2005. Single crystal manganese oxide multipods by oriented attachment. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 127, 15034–15035. Copyright 2005, American Chemical Society. Part (F): Reproduced from Seo, J.-W., Jun, Y.-W., Ko, S.J., Cheon, J., 2005. In situ one-pot synthesis of 1-dimensional transition metal oxide nanocrystals. J. Phys. Chem. B. 109, 5389–5391. Copyright 2005, American Chemical Society.

The resulting materials were subjected to shape-dependent magnetic properties. Zeng et al. (2004) have extensively studied the shape-controlled synthesis of MnFe2O4 nanomaterial. The relative ratio between surfactant and Fe(acac)3 showed a remarkable role in controlling the final morphology of MnFe2O4. TEM analysis revealed the formation of cube-like or polyhedron-type morphology for MnFe2O4 (Fig. 1.6C–D). In addition, size of MnFe2O4 particle is dependent on the concentration of metal precursors. Novel cone-shaped ZnO was obtained by decomposition of TOPO–Zn(OAc)2 complex resulting in the formation of hierarchically ordered spheres of cone-shaped ZnO nanocrystals (Joo et al., 2005). Li et al. (2006) fabricated titanium oxide nanorods with 3.3-nm diameter and a length of 25 nm using appropriate amounts of reaction ingredients, such as titanium butoxide, triethylamine, linoleic acid, and cyclohexane. Reaction temperature, time, and concentration of the reactant were found to show huge effect on the shape and size of the TiONPs. Preparation of high-quality single crystalline MnO multipods with homogeneous size and shape, involved decomposition of Mn(oleate)2 in the presence of oleic acid and n-trioctylamine (Fig. 1.6E) (Zitoun et al., 2005). Tungsten oxide nanorods were generated by treatment of WCl4 with oleylamine and oleic acid (Fig. 1.6F) (Seo et al., 2005). Solvent-controlled sol–gel route, involves the reaction between metal halide and alcohols to produce metal oxide nanostructures. For example, porous SnO2 NPs were prepared by the addition of tin chloride to benzylalcohol under stirring condition, which was immediately dispersed in THF solution, producing sol. The subsequent addition of block polymer to sol allowed mesoporous nanostructure for SnO2 by the elimination of solvent molecule (Ba et al., 2005).

2.3. Hydrothermal and Solvothermal Method

Hydrothermal or solvothermal method is one of the most common and effective synthetic routes to fabricate the nanomaterial with a variety of morphologies. In this method, the reactants are placed into an autoclave filled with water or organic compound to carry out the reaction under high temperature and pressure conditions. If the nonaqueous solvents are utilized as reaction medium, it is termed as solvothermal method; whereas, in case the preparation is carried out in the presence of water, it is known as hydrothermal process (Cushing et  al.,  2004; Wu et  al.,  2002). Different kinds of autoclaves and their functions are deeply discussed in the literature (Hakuta et  al.,  2005; Rabenau,  1985). Generally, Teflon-lined autoclaves are capable of working at high temperature and pressure. In addition, it sustains alkaline media and exhibits a strong resistance to hydrofluoric acid when compared to glass and quartz autoclaves. Therefore, Teflon-lined autoclave is chosen as an ideal container to perform the reaction under desired conditions. Precise control in hydrothermal process is the key factor that enables the synthesis of various nanostructured inorganic materials (Shi et al., 2013). This method can facilitate and accelerate the reaction among the reactants, promote hydrolysis, followed by crystal growth resulting in self-assembly of nanomaterials in the solution. Moreover, the properties, morphology, size, and structure of nanomaterials can be tailored easily by varying the different reaction parameters, such as reaction time, temperature, reaction medium, pressure, pH, and concentration of the reactants and filled volume of autoclave. This method can be suitable for the preparation of nanomaterials with a variety of shapes as compared to other methodologies.

Yan et al. (2008) have fabricated ceria nanooctahedrons and nanorods without assistance of surfactant or template via simple and facile hydrothermal approach. High quality of ceria nanorods with 20-nm width and few hundred nanometer length were produced by treating Ce(NO3)2.6H2O with Na3PO4.6H2O in water medium (Fig. 1.7A). The change in the morphology of the ceria NPs was achieved by tuning the hydrothermal reaction time. It was demonstrated that, Na3PO4 played a crucial role in the formation of ceria nanostructures. A simple hydrothermal method has been developed to prepare ceria nanocubes and octahedra by employing Ce(NO3)2.6H2O, Na3PO4.6H2O, and NaOH as precursors. The obtained nanostructured ceria was effectively studied for CO oxidation reaction. Interestingly, after the exposure of these nanoshapes to CO oxidation at 673 K, they have retained their original shape without losing their individual nanoshape, indicating that these nanostructures are thermally stable up to 673 K (Zili et al., 2012).

Figure 1.7   TEM image of (A) CeO2 nanorod. (B) TEM image of CeO2 hollow sphere. Part (A): Reprinted with permission from Yan, L., Yu, R., Chen, J., Xing, X., 2008. Template-free hydrothermal synthesis of CeO2 nanooctahedrons and nanorods: investigation of the morphology evolution. Cryst. Growth Des. 8, 1474–1477. Copyright 2008, American Chemical Society. Part (B): Reprinted with permission from Yang, Z., Han, D., Ma, D., Liang, H., Liu, L., Yang, Y., 2010. Fabrication of monodisperse CeO2 hollow spheres assembled by nanooctahedra, Cryst. Growth Des., 10, 291–295. Copyright 2010, American Chemical Society.

Yang et al. (2010) have demonstrated that nanooctahedra are the building blocks for the production of monodisperse ceria hollow spheres that are obtained by mild hydrothermal route (Fig. 1.7B). H2O2 played a significant role in the production of novel hollow sphere nanostructures, whereas polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) played an important role in promoting the nucleation of nanocrystals during the course of reaction. The alignment of hollow sphere nanostructure of ceria was explained based on the Ostwald ripening mechanism. Van et al. (2012) have reported the synthesis of Fe2O3 nanostructure with a variety of morphologies by using capping agents like sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and hydrazine (N2H4) assisted hydrothermal method (Fig. 1.8). Capping agents can produce different morphologies, such as spheres and truncated hexagonal pyramid-shaped Fe2O3 nanocrystals. However, without the aid of capping agent dendrite shape of Fe2O3 nanocrystals were obtained. Therefore, it is believed that capping agents play a vital role in controlling the morphology of final nanomaterial. Magnetic and optical properties of nanostructured hematite phase Fe2O3 nanocrystals were extensively studied.

Figure 1.8   Morphology of α-Fe2O3 With Various Reactants Under Hydrothermal Conditions at 433 K for 8 h

(A) K3[Fe(CN)6], 0.02 M, in the absence of CMC and N2H4; (B) K3[Fe(CN)6], in the absence of CMC, 3.5 gL−1; (C) K3[Fe(CN)6], 0.02 M, with the addition of CMC, 3.5 gL−1 and N2H4, 1.5 wt.%; (D) K3[Fe(CN)6], 0.02 M, with the addition of CMC, 3.5 gL−1, and N2H4, 4.5 wt.%; (E) K3[Fe(CN)6], 0.02 M, with the addition of CMC, 3.5 gL−1, and N2H4, 6.0 wt.%; (F) K3[Fe(CN)6], 0.02 M, with the addition of CMC, 3.5 gL−1, and N2H4, 8.0 wt.%. Reprinted with permission from Van, T.-K., Cha, H.G., Nguyen, C.K., Kim, S.-W., Jung, M.-H., Kang, Y.S., 2012. Nanocystals of hematite with unconventional shape-truncated hexagonal bipyramid and its optical and magnetic properties. Cryst. Growth Des. 12, 862–868. Copyright 2011, American Chemical Society.

2.4. Microwave-Assisted Method

Generally, solution-based approaches utilize conventional heating, which is the driving force for chemical reactions. In this process, heat energy is transferred from the source to the solvent and then transferred to reactants during the course of the reaction. However, conventional heating process inevitably suffers from various drawbacks, including high thermal gradient effects, slow reaction kinetics, nonconsistent and undesirable reaction conditions throughout the bulk (Gerbec et al., 2005). Particularly, for large-scale production of NPs, the aforesaid problematic aspects, such as inhomogeneity, poor crystallization, and thermal gradient effects may be magnified tremendously resulting in poor nucleation and wide-size distribution (Hu et  al.,  2008; Hu and Yu,  2008). From this point of view, microwave method is one of the excellent alternative routes to address the previously mentioned issues raised in conventional heating process.

Microwaves are nothing but electromagnetic energy with frequency in the range of 300 MHz to 300 GHz. Generally, interaction of microwaves with materials during the reaction is based on two important mechanisms: dipole interactions and ionic conduction. However, these two mechanisms can effectively work, when coupling takes place between components of target compound and oscillating electric field of microwave. Fig. 1.9 depicts the production of heat energy during the interaction of microwaves with polar water molecule (Tsuji et al., 2005). In microwave frequency range, water molecules try to orient with the electric field and the two polar ends try to reorient with respect to the oscillating electric field, as a result they lose energy in the form of heat by molecular collision and friction. Other polar molecules, such as alcohols, DMF, ethylene glycol are used as ideal solvents for microwave-assisted synthesis of metal NPs, due to their high dielectric loss and high reduction ability.

Figure 1.9   Production of Heat Energy by Microwave Irradiation of Water Molecule Reprinted with permission from Tsuji, M., Hashimoto, M., Nishizawa, Y., Kubokawa, M., Tsuji, T., 2005. Microwave-assisted synthesis of metallic nanostructures in solution. Chem. Eur. J. 11, 440–452. Copyright 2005, Wiley-VCH.

Microwave method received considerable attention as a new, promising, and environmental friendly method to synthesize the metallic nanostructures as well as metal oxides with a variety of morphologies. In addition, microwave strategy offers several benefits, such as high efficiency in the utilization of heat. Moreover, it is clean, cheap, and produces higher