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Surface-enhanced Resonance Raman Scattering Nanoprobe Ratiometry for Detecting Microscopic Ovarian Cancer via Folate Receptor Targeting
Published on: March 25, 2019
The Dual Role of Nanomaterials in Ovarian Cancer and Female Fertility as Anti- and Prooxidants
Massimo Aloisi1, Gianna Rossi1, Sandra Cecconi1
1Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
Abstract:
Nanomaterials (NMs) are becoming increasingly important in biomedical applications, especially in reproductive biology and oncology. In this review, we examined the "double face" of NMs as prooxidants and antioxidants in relation to ovarian cancer and female fertility. NMs have been shown to reduce oxidative stress pathways in tumors, enhancing the effectiveness of chemotherapy and serving as carriers for drugs and compounds. They are also considered for their protective effects on female fertility by improving oocyte quality, maturation, and survival under various healthy and adverse conditions. However, certain NMs can induce oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ovarian tissue apoptosis when present in high concentrations or after prolonged exposure. These "double face" effects highlight the complex nature of NMs' concentration, shape, and biocompatibility. Although NMs show promise in cancer treatment and fertility preservation, a comprehensive assessment of their prooxidant potential is necessary for successful clinical application.
Insights
Nanomaterials (NMs) offer dual roles in reproductive biology and oncology, acting as both antioxidants and prooxidants. Understanding their complex effects is crucial for safe clinical use in cancer treatment and fertility preservation.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical applications of nanomaterials
- Reproductive biology and oncology
Background:
- Nanomaterials (NMs) are increasingly utilized in medicine.
- Their dual prooxidant and antioxidant properties impact female reproductive health and ovarian cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of nanomaterials in ovarian cancer and female fertility.
- To assess the balance between beneficial and detrimental effects of NMs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on nanomaterials in reproductive biology and oncology.
- Analysis of nanomaterial interactions with oxidative stress pathways, tumor cells, and reproductive tissues.
Main Results:
- NMs can reduce oxidative stress in tumors, aiding chemotherapy and drug delivery.
- NMs show potential in preserving female fertility by enhancing oocyte quality and survival.
- High concentrations or prolonged exposure to NMs can induce oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis in ovarian tissues.
Conclusions:
- The effects of NMs are complex, depending on concentration, shape, and biocompatibility.
- Further research is needed to evaluate the prooxidant potential of NMs for safe clinical applications in cancer and fertility preservation.
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