Multifaceted Peptide Based Nanoparticles for Diagnosis of Brain Tumors: Advances and Future Outlooks

Author(s): Soumya V Menon, Abira R, Shyam Gokarn1, Nekath Gamlath Raalalage Hasanjana Rashari Senevirathne, Chaqshu Tandin Bidha, Asha Kademane

Novel drug delivery utilizes extremely penetrable nanoparticles for their ability to overcome defective bio-distribution to minor barricades like intracellular tra?cking, especially the stubborn blood-brain barrier. Novel methods popularize them in therapy and diagnosis of tumors, neuro-degenerative disorders etc. Unstable individual peptide chains undergo ‘self-assembly’, triggered by various factors, yielding peptide-based nanoparticles with high bio-compatibility and hydrophobic properties leading to cell-penetrating peptides [CPPs], which initiate nanoparticle internalization. CPPs are modifiable pre- and post-assembly for enhanced target specificity and are capable of delivering therapeutics, proteins, nucleic acids, and imaging agents. Nanoparticles must also permeate the blood-brain and blood-cerebrospinal ?uid barriers regulated by endothelial and epithelial cells. Oral route and increased positive charge cause high penetrability, efficacy and patient amenability while the intravenous route ensures maximum bio-distribution. Internalization may be energy-dependent or independent, and the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect aids uptake and retention through malformed vessels. However, hemolytic potential can cause toxicity in some peptides. CPPs' are affected by structure, concentration, length, and charge, and when combined with nanomaterials, they exhibit increased bioavailability, stability, selectivity, and in-vivo efficacy. Slow nanoparticle neutralization could result in long-term toxicity. Advances include direct nanoparticle injection, real-time toxicity monitoring, and tumor-specific staining for improved therapeutic outcomes.