Non-spherical Polymeric Nanocarriers for Therapeutics: The Effect of Shape on Biological Systems and Drug Delivery Properties.

This review aims to highlight the importance of particle shape in the design of polymeric nanocarriers for drug delivery systems, along with their size, surface chemistry, density, and rigidity. Current manufacturing methods used to obtain non-spherical polymeric nanocarriers such as filomicelles or nanoworms, nanorods and nanodisks, are firstly described. Then, their interactions with biological barriers are presented, including how shape affects nanoparticle clearance, their biodistribution and targeting.

Nanosized Delivery Systems for Therapeutic Proteins: Clinically Validated Technologies and Advanced Development Strategies.

The impact of protein therapeutics in healthcare is steadily increasing, due to advancements in the field of biotechnology and a deeper understanding of several pathologies. However, their safety and efficacy are often limited by instability, short half-life and immunogenicity. Nanodelivery systems are currently being investigated for overcoming these limitations and include covalent attachment of biocompatible polymers (PEG and other synthetic or naturally derived macromolecules) as well as protein nanoencapsulation in colloidal systems (liposomes and other lipid or polymeric nanocarriers).

Successful bronchial revascularization in experimental single lung transplantation.

It is the purpose of this paper to report our experience with bronchial artery revascularization in an experimental model of single lung transplantation in swine. Thirty-three large white pigs weighing 20-40 kg underwent left lung allotransplantation. In 24 animals, bronchial artery revascularization was attempted by anastomizing the aortic patch containing the bronchial artery orifice with the recipient descending aorta.

Temporary intraluminal bypass for superior vena cava reconstruction after cancer invasion.

We report a case of right upper lobe bronchogenic cancer widely infiltrating the superior vena cava (SVC) in which right pneumonectomy was performed with partial resection of the SVC wall. The SVC was reconstructed by means of a pericardial patch; during reconstruction a temporary intraluminal bypass was set up to obtain a proper venous return to the right atrium.