Zitong Qi

Bio: Zitong Qi is an academic researcher from China Pharmaceutical University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Polyethylenimine & Medicine. The author has an hindex of 4, co-authored 6 publications receiving 68 citations.

Rational Design of Lovastatin-Loaded Spherical Reconstituted High Density Lipoprotein for Efficient and Safe Anti-Atherosclerotic Therapy.

Abstract: Reconstituted high density lipoprotein (rHDL) is a biomimetic nanoparticle with plaque targeting and anti-atherosclerotic efficacy. In this work, we report on a strategy to rational design of lovastatin (LOV)-loaded spherical rHDL (LOV-s-rHDL) for efficient and safe anti-atherosclerotic therapy. Briefly, three LOV-s-rHDLs were formulated with LOV/s-rHDL at ratios of 8:1, 10:1, and 15:1 upon their respective median-effect values (Dm). The combined inhibitory effect between LOV and s-rHDL of different LOV-s-rHDL formulations on DiI-labeled oxLDL internalization was systemically investigated in RAW 264.7 cells based on the median-effect principle. Median-effect analysis demonstrated that the optimized LOV-s-rHDL was formulated with a ratio of 10:1 (Dm LOV:Dm s-rHDL), in which LOV and s-rHDL carrier showed the best synergistic effect, presumably ascribed to their inhibitory effect on CD36 and SR-A expression according to the Western blot analysis. In vivo pharmacodynamics studies showed that the optimized LOV...

Endocytosis: The Nanoparticle and Submicron Nanocompounds Gateway into the Cell

Abstract: Nanoparticles (NPs) and submicron particles are increasingly used as carriers for delivering therapeutic compounds to cells. Their entry into the cell represents the initial step in this delivery process, being most of the nanoparticles taken up by endocytosis, although other mechanisms can contribute to the uptake. To increase the delivery efficiency of therapeutic compounds by NPs and submicron particles is very relevant to understand the mechanisms involved in the uptake process. This review covers the proposed pathways involved in the cellular uptake of different NPs and submicron particles types as well as the role that some of the physicochemical nanoparticle characteristics play in the uptake pathway preferentially used by the nanoparticles to gain access and deliver their cargo inside the cell.

Advanced functional polymer materials

Abstract: The research on advanced functional polymers is being driven by the fast-growing demand for new functional materials that can be used in revolutionary technologies. Polymers can be endowed with functions by using certain special preparation methods or by introducing functional groups or fillers into materials. These functions are either intrinsically possessed by materials or actuated by external stimuli. In this review, we present an overview of the recent developments made in the research hotspots of functional polymers, encompassing polymerization methodologies, luminescent polymers, photovoltaic polymers, other electronic and optical polymers (including low-k polyimides and second-order nonlinear optical polymers), biorelated polymers (particularly those for biomedical applications), supramolecular polymers, stimuli-responsive polymers, shape-memory polymers, separation polymer membranes, energy storage polymers, and covalent organic framework polymers. The concepts, design strategies at the molecular level, preparation methods, classifications, properties, potential applications, and recent progress made in such polymers are summarized. Challenges and future perspectives of each type of functional polymers are also addressed, including research efforts regarding the design and fabrication of functional polymers for serving the increasing demand for new materials.

Macrophage-targeted nanomedicine for the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.

Abstract: Nanotechnology could improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and contribute to the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to further reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Macrophages have key roles in atherosclerosis progression and, therefore, macrophage-associated pathological processes are important targets for both diagnostic imaging and novel therapies for atherosclerosis. In this Review, we highlight efforts in the past two decades to develop imaging techniques and to therapeutically manipulate macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques with the use of rationally designed nanoparticles. We review the latest progress in nanoparticle-based imaging modalities that can specifically target macrophages. Using novel molecular imaging technology, these modalities enable the identification of advanced atherosclerotic plaques and the assessment of the therapeutic efficacy of medical interventions. Additionally, we provide novel perspectives on how macrophage-targeting nanoparticles can deliver a broad range of therapeutic payloads to atherosclerotic lesions. These nanoparticles can suppress pro-atherogenic macrophage processes, leading to improved resolution of inflammation and stabilization of plaques. Finally, we propose future opportunities for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies and provide solutions to challenges in this area for the purpose of accelerating the clinical translation of nanomedicine for the treatment of atherosclerotic vascular disease.

Polymeric Delivery of Therapeutic Nucleic Acids.

Abstract: The advent of genome editing has transformed the therapeutic landscape for several debilitating diseases, and the clinical outlook for gene therapeutics has never been more promising. The therapeutic potential of nucleic acids has been limited by a reliance on engineered viral vectors for delivery. Chemically defined polymers can remediate technological, regulatory, and clinical challenges associated with viral modes of gene delivery. Because of their scalability, versatility, and exquisite tunability, polymers are ideal biomaterial platforms for delivering nucleic acid payloads efficiently while minimizing immune response and cellular toxicity. While polymeric gene delivery has progressed significantly in the past four decades, clinical translation of polymeric vehicles faces several formidable challenges. The aim of our Account is to illustrate diverse concepts in designing polymeric vectors towards meeting therapeutic goals of in vivo and ex vivo gene therapy. Here, we highlight several classes of polymers employed in gene delivery and summarize the recent work on understanding the contributions of chemical and architectural design parameters. We touch upon characterization methods used to visualize and understand events transpiring at the interfaces between polymer, nucleic acids, and the physiological environment. We conclude that interdisciplinary approaches and methodologies motivated by fundamental questions are key to designing high-performing polymeric vehicles for gene therapy.