Due to the theragnostic potential of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), these were extensively investigated as a novel approach to improve clinical outcomes. Boasting an impressive array of formulations and modifications, MSNs demonstrate significant in vivo efficacy when used to identify or treat myriad malignant diseases in preclinical models. As MSNs continue transitioning into clinical trials, a thorough understanding of the characteristics of effective MSNs is necessary. This review highlights recent discoveries and advances in MSN understanding and technology. Specific focus is given to cancer theragnostic approaches using MSNs. Characteristics of MSNs such as size, shape, and surface properties are discussed in relation to effective nanomedicine practice and projected clinical efficacy. Additionally, tumor-targeting options used with MSNs are presented with extensive discussion on active-targeting molecules. Methods for decreasing MSN toxicity, improving site-specific delivery, and controlling release of loaded molecules are further explained. Challenges facing the field and translation to clinical environments are presented alongside potential avenues for continuing investigations.

A variety of seemingly non-specific symptoms manifest within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, particularly in the colon, in response to inflammation, infection, or a combination thereof. Differentiation between symptom sources can often be achieved using various radiologic studies. Although it is not possible to provide a comprehensive survey of imaging gastrointestinal GI tract infections in a single article, the purpose of this review is to survey several topics on imaging of GI tract inflammation and infections. The review discusses such modalities as computed tomography, positron emission tomography, ultrasound, endoscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging while looking at up-an-coming technologies that could improve diagnoses and patient comfort. The discussion is accomplished through examining a combination of organ-based and organism-based approaches, with accompanying selected case examples. Specific focus is placed on the bacterial infections caused by Shigella spp., Escherichia coli, Clostridium difficile, Salmonella, and inflammatory conditions of diverticulitis and irritable bowel disease. These infectious and inflammatory diseases and their detection via molecular imaging will be compared including the appropriate differential diagnostic considerations.

Inflammatory diseases include a wide variety of highly prevalent conditions with high mortality rates in severe cases ranging from cardiovascular disease, to rheumatoid arthritis, to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, to graft vs. host disease, to a number of gastrointestinal disorders. Many diseases that are not considered inflammatory per se are associated with varying levels of inflammation. Imaging of the immune system and inflammatory response is of interest as it can give insight into disease progression and severity. Clinical imaging technologies such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are traditionally limited to the visualization of anatomical information; then, the presence or absence of an inflammatory state must be inferred from the structural abnormalities. Improvement in available contrast agents has made it possible to obtain functional information as well as anatomical. In vivo imaging of inflammation ultimately facilitates an improved accuracy of diagnostics and monitoring of patients to allow for better patient care. Highly specific molecular imaging of inflammatory biomarkers allows for earlier diagnosis to prevent irreversible damage. Advancements in imaging instruments, targeted tracers, and contrast agents represent a rapidly growing area of preclinical research with the hopes of quick translation to the clinic.

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious GI disease of premature infants, marked by intestinal inflammation and necrosis. Recent research has highlighted the potential role of oxidative stress (OS) and ferroptosis in its pathogenesis. We previously identified a deficiency in Glutathione Peroxidase (GPX) 4 and lipid radical accumulation, prompting further investigation. Human intestinal tissue from a prior study was processed, and it underwent RNA and protein isolation, Immunohistochemistry, Immunofluorescence, and acid digestion for iron and selenium analysis via Inductively coupled mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). NEC was induced in human enteroids using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and hypoxia, followed by RNA/protein isolation and lipidomic analysis. Humans with NEC had significantly higher levels of GPX2 (p = 0.0003). Enteroids exposed to NEC conditions had significantly decreased amounts of NADPH compared to initial controls (p = 0.0091), but similar levels compared to post-24 h controls (p = 0.3520). Patients with NEC had significantly higher levels of iron compared to controls via the bathophenanthroline-based assay (p = 0.0102) and with ICP-MS (p = 0.0148). There were several significant alterations in lipid distribution between NEC and control patients, but not in the fatty acid profiles. Our study suggests that oxidative stress, iron dysregulation, and altered lipid metabolism contribute to NEC pathogenesis.