Nanoencapsulation, an efficient and promising approach to maximize wound healing efficacy of curcumin: A review of new trends and state-of-the-art

Novel Therapeutic Delivery of Nanocurcumin in Central Nervous System Related Disorders

Nutraceuticals represent complementary or alternative beneficial products to the expensive and high-tech therapeutic tools in modern medicine. Nowadays, their medical or health benefits in preventing or treating different types of diseases is widely accepted, due to fewer side effects than synthetic drugs, improved bioavailability and long half-life. Among herbal and natural compounds, curcumin is a very attractive herbal supplement considering its multipurpose properties. The potential effects of curcumin on glia cells and its therapeutic and protective properties in central nervous system (CNS)-related disorders is relevant. However, curcumin is unstable and easily degraded or metabolized into other forms posing limits to its clinical development. This is particularly important in brain pathologies determined blood brain barrier (BBB) obstacle. To enhance the stability and bioavailability of curcumin, many studies focused on the design and development of curcumin nanodelivery systems (nanoparticles, micelles, dendrimers, and diverse nanocarriers). These nanoconstructs can increase curcumin stability, solubility, in vivo uptake, bioactivity and safety. Recently, several studies have reported on a curcumin exosome-based delivery system, showing great therapeutical potential. The present work aims to review the current available data in improving bioactivity of curcumin in treatment or prevention of neurological disorders.

Nano-scaled materials may induce severe neurotoxicity upon chronic exposure to brain tissues: A critical appraisal and recent updates on predisposing factors, underlying mechanism, and future prospects

Owing to their tremendous potential, the inference of nano-scaled materials has revolutionized many fields including the medicine and health, particularly for development of various types of targeted drug delivery devices for early prognosis and successful treatment of various diseases, including the brain disorders. Owing to their unique characteristic features, a variety of nanomaterials (particularly, ultra-fine particles (UFPs) have shown tremendous success in achieving the prognostic and therapeutic goals for early prognosis and treatment of various brain maladies such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, brain lymphomas, and other ailments. However, serious attention is needful due to innumerable after-effects of the nanomaterials. Despite their immense contribution in optimizing the prognostic and therapeutic modalities, biological interaction of nanomaterials with various body tissues may produce severe nanotoxicity of different organs including the heart, liver, kidney, lungs, immune system, gastro-intestinal system, skin as well as nervous system. However, in this review, we have primarily focused on nanomaterials-induced neurotoxicity of the brain. Following their translocation into different regions of the brain, nanomaterials may induce neurotoxicity through multiple mechanisms including the oxidative stress, DNA damage, lysosomal dysfunction, inflammatory cascade, apoptosis, genotoxicity, and ultimately necrosis of neuronal cells. Our findings indicated that rigorous toxicological evaluations must be carried out prior to clinical translation of nanomaterials-based formulations to avoid serious neurotoxic complications, which may further lead to develop various neuro-degenerative disorders.

Rational design and latest advances of polysaccharide-based hydrogels for wound healing

Acute and chronic wounds cause severe physical trauma to patients and also bring an immense socio-economic burden. Hydrogels are considered to be effective wound dressings. Polysaccharides possessing distinctive properties such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and nontoxicity are promising candidates to structure hydrogels for wound healing. Polysaccharide-based hydrogels can provide suitable moisture for the wound and act as a shield against bacteria. Adequate mechanical properties, degradability, and therapeutic agent controlled release of polysaccharide-based hydrogels have been already characterized for effective utilization. This review presented several crucial design considerations about hydrogels for wound healing, and the current state of polysaccharide (chitosan, alginate, hyaluronic acid, cellulose, dextran, and starch)-based hydrogels as wound dressings was also summarized. The commonly used crosslinking techniques, including physical, chemical, and enzymatic crosslinking, are discussed in detail. Finally, we outline the challenges and perspectives about the improvement of polysaccharide-based hydrogels.

Sesamol-Loaded PLGA Nanosuspension for Accelerating Wound Healing in Diabetic Foot Ulcer in Rats

Background

Diabetic foot ulcer is an intractable complication of diabetes, characterized by the disturbed inflammatory and proliferative phases of wound healing. Sesamol, a phenolic compound, has been known for its powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycaemic and wound healing properties. The aim of the present study was to develop a sesamol nano formulation and to study its effect on the various phases of the wound healing process in diabetic foot condition.

Methods

Sesamol-PLGA (SM-PLGA) nanosuspension was developed  using nanoprecipitation method. TEM, in vitro drug release assay and in vivo pharmacokinetic studies were performed for the optimised formulation. Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) in high fat diet (HFD)-fed streptozotocin-induced type-II diabetic animal model was used to assess the SM-PLGA nanosuspension efficacy. SM-PLGA nanosuspension was administered by oral route. TNF-α levels were estimated using ELISA and Western blot analysis was performed to assess the effect on the expression of HSP-27, ERK, PDGF-B and VEGF in wound tissue. Wound re-epithelization, fibroblast migration, collagen deposition and inflammatory cell infiltration were assessed by H&E and Masson’s trichrome staining. Effect on angiogenesis was assessed by CD-31 IHC staining in wound sections.

Results

The optimized SM-PLGA nanosuspension had an average particle size of <300 nm, PDI<0.200 with spherical shaped particles. Approximately 80% of the drug was released over a period of 60 h in in vitro assay. Half-life of the formulation was found to be 13.947 ± 0.596 h. SM-PLGA nanosuspension treatment decreased TNF-α levels in wound tissue and accelerated the collagen deposition. Whereas, HSP-27, ERK, PDGF-B and VEGF expression increased and improved new blood vessels’ development. Rapid re-epithelization, fibroblast migration, collagen deposition and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration at the wound site were also observed.

Conclusion

Results indicate that sesamol-PLGA nanosuspension significantly promotes the acceleration of wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers by restoring the altered wound healing process in diabetic condition.

A bioactive multi-functional heparin-grafted aligned poly(lactide-co-glycolide)/curcumin nanofiber membrane to accelerate diabetic wound healing

Curcumin is reported to possess excellent efficacy to treat wounds that exhibit impaired healing. Heparin shows high affinity for many growth factors that are key biological mediators during the wound healing process. In this study, we aimed to prepare wound dressing membranes, for sustained release of an exogenous factor curcumin as well as sequestering endogenous growth factors at the wound site, to promote wound healing in diabetic rats. Toward this end, we prepared aligned curcumin-loaded poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanofiber membranes (PC NFMs), followed by high density surface grafting of heparin to fabricate PLGA/curcumin (PCH) NFMs. Both PC and PCH NFMs show high tensile strength, low cytotoxicity and suitable water vapor transmission rate for application as wound dressings. Nonetheless, the PCH NFM shows higher curcumin release rate than PC due to enhanced hydrophilicity, which leads to higher cell migration rate and induced oxidative stress protection of HS68 fibroblast cells in vitro. In vivo study indicated the PCH exhibits the fastest wound closure rate among all membranes with accelerated re-epithelization rate, higher angiogenesis rate and more collagen deposition at the wound site. The accelerated and better skin tissue regeneration could be suggested to correlate with the multi-functionality of nanofibers, where grafted heparin attracting and stabilizing the growth factors important for wound healing in situ, together with relieving the high oxidative stress and the inflammatory cascade from released curcumin during diabetic wound healing.

Preparation and Evaluation of Collagen-Based Patches as Curcumin Carriers

Patients with psoriasis are dissatisfied with the standard pharmacological treatments, whether systemic or topical, with many of them showing interest in complementary and alternative medicine. Curcumin (Cur), a natural polyphenol derived from turmeric, has recently gained attention for skin-related diseases because of its proven anti-inflammatory action. However, topical treatment with Cur would be inadequate because of its hydrophobicity, instability, and low bioavailability. In addition, hyperkeratosis and lack of moisture in psoriatic skin result in low penetration that would prevent actives from permeating the stratum corneum. In this work, a polymer-based formulation of Cur for the topical treatment of psoriasis is reported. To improve the physicochemical stability of Cur, it was first encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles. The Cur-loaded nanoparticles were incorporated in a hydrophilic, biocompatible collagen-based patch. The nanoparticle-containing porous collagen patches were then chemically cross-linked. Morphology, chemical interactions, swelling ratio, enzymatic hydrolysis, and Cur release from the patches were evaluated. All patches showed excellent swelling ratio, up to ~1500%, and after cross-linking, the pore size decreased, and their hydrolysis rates decelerated. The in vitro release of Cur was sustained with an initial burst release, reaching 55% after 24 h. Cur within the scaffolds imparted a proliferation inhibitory effect on psoriatic human keratinocytes in vitro.

Tuberculosis Treatment Facilitated by Lipid Nanocarriers: Can Inhalation Improve the Regimen?

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health problem. Conventional treatments fail either because of poor patient compliance with the drug regimen or due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant TB. Thus, not only has the discovery of new compounds and new therapeutic strategies been the focus of many types of research but also new routes of administration. Pulmonary drug delivery possesses many advantages, including the noninvasive route of administration, low metabolic activity, and control environment for systemic absorption, and avoids first-pass metabolism. The use of lipid nanocarriers provides several advantages such as protection of the compound's degradation, increased bioavailability, and controlled drug release. In this study, we review some points related to how the use of lipid nanocarriers can improve TB treatment with inhaled nanomedicines. This review also discusses the current approaches and formulations developed to achieve optimal pulmonary drug delivery systems with nanocarriers targeting alveolar macrophages.

Natural Formulations Provide Antioxidant Complement to Hyaluronic Acid-Based Topical Applications Used in Wound Healing

Hyaluronic acid (HA) promotes wound healing, and, accordingly, formulations based on HA have been widely used in regenerative medicine. In addition, naturally derived compounds, e.g., plant-based extracts and vitamin E, have exhibited antioxidant activity. In this study, a formulation containing hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, raspberry extract, and green tea was developed for potential topical applications, targeting wound healing. Rheological analysis was performed along with antioxidant and biological studies. The rheological characterization showed that the HA-based formulation is a thixotropic platform and possesses higher mechanical properties than the control formulation. To evaluate the wound healing potential of the formulation, an in vitro “wound healing” assay was carried out using human derived fibroblasts (HDF) with a cell-free gap on the tissue culture dish. The formulation showed better wound healing ability than the control formulation.

Biogenic silver nanoparticles as a more efficient contrivance for wound healing acceleration than common antiseptic medicine

A simple and facile way of using biogenic silver nanoparticles (BSNP) (10-20 nm) was developed for wound healing acceleration and suppression of wound infections. The BSNP were formulated in an ointment base, and the study to accelerate the wound healing process was conducted in a rat. The pH of the BSNP ointment, pH 6.8 ± 0.5, lies in normal pH range of the human skin, with good spreadability and diffusibility. The wound closure rate, as a percentage, was highest at day 3 for a BSNP ointment-treated wound at 22.77 ± 1.60%, while in an untreated control the rate was 10.99 ± 1.74%, for Betadine 14.73 ± 2.36% and for Soframycin 18.55 ± 1.37%, compared with day 0. A similar pattern of wound closure rate was found at days 7 and 11. The antibacterial activity of BSNP was evaluated against wound-infection-causing bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli by the agar diffusion method. The total bacterial counts in the wound area were enumerated by the colony forming unit method. The lowest number of bacterial counts was found in the BSNP-treated wound compared with the other groups. BSNP treatment at 7.5% concentration enhanced migration of fibroblasts in a scratch assay. These findings reveal BSNP as an efficient contrivance for wound healing acceleration and as an eco-friendly alternative therapeutic antimicrobial agent.

Zinc sulfide nanoparticles improve skin regeneration

Wound healing has been intensely studied to expedite recovery times and reduce scarring. However, current technologies fail to achieve regenerative capabilities, leaving wounds with scarring and lack of skin accessories. The recent emergence of nanotechnology has provided a new clinical modality of zinc nanoparticles in wound care. This present study investigated Zinc Sulfide nanoparticles (ZnS-NP) on wound healing in vitro with 2D and 3D models and in vivo with rat full-thickness wound model. ZnS-NP inhibited fetal bovine serum-stimulated rat skin fibroblast cell proliferation, altered cytoskeletal organization, and reduced collagen synthesis as well as contractile activity. ZnS-NP regulated redox homeostatsis and promoted fibroblast viability in 3D hypoxia conditions. In the rat full-thickness wound model, ZnS-NP reduced wound contraction, enhanced re-epithelization, and promoted skin appendage formation. The biological activities of ZnS-NPs determined in our current study may suggest promising practical applications for topical or systemic treatment for wound repair.

Recent advances in encapsulation of curcumin in nanoemulsions: A review of encapsulation technologies, bioaccessibility and applications

Curcumin is widely acknowledged for its beneficial activities. However, its application has remained challenging due to its low aqueous solubility, biochemical/structural degradation and poor bioavailability. For these reasons, many researches are aimed at overcoming these limitations using lipid-based nanosystems to encapsulate curcumin, especially nanoemulsions. This review highlights the theoretical aspects and recent advances of preparation technologies (phase inversion temperature, phase inversion composition, ultrasonication, high pressure homogenization and microfluidization) for encapsulation of curcumin in nanoemulsions. Additionally, the specific factors in designing nanoemulsions systems that affect the chemical stability and in vitro bioaccessibility of the encapsulated curcumin are discussed. Also, the importance of nanoemulsions in improving antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities of curcumin is underlined. Curcumin-loaded nanoemulsions preparation technologies have been proposed to provide efficient, systematic, and practical protocols for improved applications of curcumin. Additionally, key factors that influence curcumin delivery include the nature of emulsifier, the type and the amount of carrier oil and emulsifier-curcumin interactions. The pharmacological activities of curcumin including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities can be improved by nanoemulsions.

Hyaluronic Acid Modified Risedronate and Teriparatide Co-loaded Nanocarriers for Improved Osteogenic Differentiation of Osteoblasts for the Treatment of Osteoporosis

BACKGROUND

Owing to its multifactorial intricate pathogenesis, combined therapeutic regimen is considered appropriate for the treatment of osteoporosis. However, a multi-drug regimen is also associated with adverse effects due to the non-specific distribution of drugs. Therefore, the present study aims for efficient codelivery of risedronate (RDN) (a potent bone anti-resorptive drug) and teriparatide (TPD) (anabolic agent) as hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified chitosan nanoparticles (NPs).

METHODS

RDN/TPD NPs were synthesized using the high- pressure homogenization - solvent evaporation technique. The fabricated NPs were then characterized and optimized for suitable physicochemical characteristics. The optimized NPs were then evaluated for bone remodeling potential via assessment of time-mannered modulation in proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization of osteoblasts.

RESULTS

Results showed that HA-RDN/TPD NPs exhibited excellent physicochemical characteristics (nanoscopic size, stable zeta potential, high entrapment efficiency, and smooth spherical shape) and remained stable upon storage in the refrigerator. Assessment of various aspects of the cell growth cycle (i.e., proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization) evidenced promising bone regeneration efficacy of HA-RDN/TPD NPs.

CONCLUSION

This new strategy of employing simultaneous delivery of anti-resorptive and bone-forming agents would open new horizons for scientists, researchers, and healthcare providers as an efficient pharmacotherapy for the treatment of osteoporosis.

Co-Loaded Curcumin and Methotrexate Nanocapsules Enhance Cytotoxicity against Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cells

Background: As part of the efforts to find natural alternatives for cancer treatment and to overcome the barriers of cellular resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, polymeric nanocapsules containing curcumin and/or methotrexate were prepared by an interfacial deposition of preformed polymer method. Methods: Physicochemical properties, drug release experiments and in vitro cytotoxicity of these nanocapsules were performed against the Calu-3 lung cancer cell line. Results: The colloidal suspensions of nanocapsules showed suitable size (287 to 325 nm), negative charge (-33 to -41 mV) and high encapsulation efficiency (82.4 to 99.4%). Spherical particles at nanoscale dimensions were observed by scanning electron microscopy. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated that nanocapsules exhibited a non-crystalline pattern with a remarkable decrease of crystalline peaks of the raw materials. Fourier-transform infrared spectra demonstrated no chemical bond between the drug(s) and polymers. Drug release experiments evidenced a controlled release pattern with no burst effect for nanocapsules containing curcumin and/or methotrexate. The nanoformulation containing curcumin and methotrexate (NCUR/MTX-2) statistically decreased the cell viability of Calu-3. The fluorescence and morphological analyses presented a predominance of early apoptosis and late apoptosis as the main death mechanisms for Calu-3. Conclusions: Curcumin and methotrexate co-loaded nanocapsules can be further used as a novel therapeutic strategy for treating non-small-cell lung cancer.

Lipid Nanoparticles as a Skin Wound Healing Drug Delivery System: Discoveries and Advances

Chronic wounds are a remarkable cause of morbidity, requiring long-time treatments with a significant impact on the quality of life and high costs for public health. Although there are a variety of topical skin preparations commercially available, they have several limitations that frequently impair wound healing, such as drug instability, toxicity, limited time of action and ineffective skin permeation. In recent years, researchers have focused on the development of new effective treatments for wound healing and shown frequent interest in nanometric drug delivery systems to overcome such obstacles. In dermatology, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have received great attention from researchers due to their great functionalities, greater adhesion to the skin and film formation, enabling the hydration and maintenance of skin integrity, as well as present a more effective penetration through the skin barrier. This review provides an update on topical formulations based on Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) and Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs) as wound healing treatments. Both SLNs and NLCs are able to increase solubility and stability of active pharmaceutical ingredients and increase skin penetration compared to the free drugs. Additionally, SLNs and NLCs can increase pharmacological activity, increase the release profile of the drugs, promote synergistic effects and improve the sensory properties of the final formulation. Topical dosage forms containing nanoparticles have been extensively evaluated for wound healing activity, mainly the dressings, films and scaffolds. Therefore, lipid nanoparticles have contributed in improving wound healing therapies when incorporated into other dosage forms with better efficacy and lesser adverse effects than conventional formulations.

Preparation and evaluation of curcumin grafted hyaluronic acid modified pullulan polymers as a functional wound dressing material

Curcumin grafted hyaluronic acid modified pullulan polymers (Cur-HA-SPu) by chemical conjugation was designed and prepared, and its film may be used to accelerate wound healing and help to fight infection. The synthesis of Cur-HA-SPu polymer was characterized by FT-IR, ¹H NMR and DSC. Cur-HA-SPu film has a higher swelling ratio than that of HA-SPu film. Moreover, the good biocompatibility of Cur-HA-SPu polymer was confirmed by skin irritation, cytotoxicity and hemolysis tests. Compared to Cur, the MTT and proliferation test carried out in L929 cells revealed that Cur-HA-SPu polymer showed no cytotoxicity and enhanced cell proliferation. Cur-HA-SPu polymer exhibited a certain bactericidal activity against E. coli and S. aureus. Furthermore, the materials showed antioxidant activity when DPPH method determined. Wound healing study using wistar rat model demonstrated that Cur-HA-SPu film obtained better wound healing result than that of HA-SPu film or natural healing. The above results suggest that Cur-HA-SPu film is a promising and safety formulation for accelerating skin wound healing.

Therapeutic Applications of Curcumin Nanomedicine Formulations in Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) compromises a group of heart and blood vessels disorders with high impact on human health and wellbeing. Curcumin (CUR) have demonstrated beneficial effects on these group of diseases that represent a global burden with a prevalence that continues increasing progressively. Pre- and clinical studies have demonstrated the CUR effects in CVD through its anti-hypercholesterolemic and anti-atherosclerotic effects and its protective properties against cardiac ischemia and reperfusion. However, the CUR therapeutic limitation is its bioavailability. New CUR nanomedicine formulations are developed to solve this problem. The present article aims to discuss different studies and approaches looking into the promising role of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems to deliver CUR and its derivatives in CVD treatment, with an emphasis on their formulation properties, experimental evidence, bioactivity, as well as challenges and opportunities in developing these systems.

Effects of lecithin-based nanoemulsions on skin: Short-time cytotoxicity MTT and BrdU studies, skin penetration of surfactants and additives and the delivery of curcumin

Surfactants are important ingredients in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations, as in creams, shampoos or shower gels. As conventional emulsifiers such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) have fallen into disrepute due to their skin irritation potential, the naturally occurring lecithins are being investigated as a potential alternative. Thus, lecithin-based nanoemulsions with and without the drug curcumin, known for its wound healing properties, were produced and characterised in terms of their particle size, polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential and compared to SDS-based formulations. In vitro toxicity of the produced blank nanoemulsions was assessed with primary human keratinocytes and fibroblasts using two different cell viability assays (BrdU and EZ4U). Further, we investigated the penetration profiles of the deployed surfactants and oil components using combined ATR-FTIR/tape stripping experiments and confirmed the ability of the lecithin-based nanoemulsions to deliver curcumin into the stratum corneum in tape stripping-UV/Vis experiments. All manufactured nanoemulsions showed droplet sizes under 250 nm with satisfying PDI and zeta potential values. Viability assays with human skin cells clearly indicated that lecithin-based nanoemulsions were superior to SDS-based formulations. ATR-FTIR tests showed that lecithin and oil components remained in the superficial layers of the stratum corneum, suggesting a low risk for skin irritation. Ex vivo tape stripping experiments revealed that the kind of oil used in the nanoemulsion seemed to influence the depth of curcumin penetration into the stratum corneum.

Curcumin as an Anticancer Agent in Malignant Mesothelioma: A Review

Malignant mesothelioma is an infrequent tumor that initiates from the mesothelial cells lining of body cavities. The great majority of mesotheliomas originate in the pleural cavity, while the remaining cases initiate in the peritoneal cavity, in the pericardial cavity or on the tunica vaginalis. Usually, mesotheliomas grow in a diffuse pattern and tend to enclose and compress the organs in the various body cavities. Mesothelioma incidence is increasing worldwide and still today, the prognosis is very poor, with a reported median survival of approximately one year from presentation. Thus, the development of alternative and more effective therapies is currently an urgent requirement. The aim of this review article was to describe recent findings about the anti-cancer activity of curcumin and some of its derivatives on mesotheliomas. The potential clinical implications of these findings are discussed.

Skin permeation and thermodynamic features of curcumin-loaded liposomes

This work describes the development of liposomes encapsulating curcumin (CURC) aiming to provide insights on the influence of CURC on the thermodynamic and skin permeation/penetration features of the vesicles. CURC-loaded liposomes were prepared by hydration of lipid film, in the 0.1-15% CURC:DPPC w/w ratio range. The obtained formulations were characterized for their size distribution, zeta potential and vesicle deformability, along with their thermodynamic properties and ex vivo skin penetration/permeation ability. Liposome size was 110-130 nm for all formulations, with fairly narrow size distribution (polydispersity index was ≤0.20) and a zeta potential mildly decreasing with CURC loading. DSC outcomes indicated that CURC interferes with the packing of DPPC acyl chains in liposome bilayer when CURC percentage was at least 10%, leading to a more fluid state than blank and low-payload vesicles. Consistently, the deformability index of liposomes with 15% CURC:DPPC was strongly increased compared to other formulations. This is congruent with ex vivo skin penetration/permeation results, which showed how more deformable liposomes showed an improved deposition in the epidermis, which acts as a reservoir for the active molecule. Altogether, results hint at a possible application of high payload liposomes for improved topical dermal accumulations of actives.

Applications of Electrospun Nanofibers with Antioxidant Properties: A Review

Antioxidants can be encapsulated to enhance their solubility or bioavailability or to protect them from external factors. Electrospinning has proven to be an excellent option for applications in nanotechnology, as electrospun nanofibers can provide the necessary environment for antioxidant encapsulation. Forty-nine papers related to antioxidants loaded onto electrospun nanofibers were categorized and reviewed to identify applications and new trends. Medical and food fields were commonly proposed for the newly obtained composites. Among the polymers used as a matrix for the electrospinning process, synthetic poly (lactic acid) and polycaprolactone were the most widely used. In addition, natural compounds and extracts were identified as antioxidants that help to inhibit free radical and oxidative damage in tissues and foods. The most recurrent active compounds used were tannic acid (polyphenol), quercetin (flavonoid), curcumin (polyphenol), and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). The incorporation of active compounds in nanofibers often improves their bioavailability, giving them increased stability, changing the mechanical properties of polymers, enhancing nanofiber biocompatibility, and offering novel properties for the required field. Although most of the polymers used were synthetic, natural polymers such as silk fibroin, chitosan, cellulose, pullulan, polyhydroxybutyrate, and zein have proven to be proper matrices for this purpose.

Curcumin micelles suppress gastric tumor cell growth by upregulating ROS generation, disrupting redox equilibrium and affecting mitochondrial bioenergetics

A proposed novel mechanism of anticancer activity of curcumin micelles through redox equilibrium in gastric cancer.

Staggered Herringbone Microfluid Device for the Manufacturing of Chitosan/TPP Nanoparticles: Systematic Optimization and Preliminary Biological Evaluation

Chitosan nanoparticles (CS NPs) showed promising results in drug, vaccine and gene delivery for the treatment of various diseases. The considerable attention towards CS was owning to its outstanding biological properties, however, the main challenge in the application of CS NPs was faced during their size-controlled synthesis. Herein, ionic gelation reaction between CS and sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP), a widely used and safe CS cross-linker for biomedical application, was exploited by a microfluidic approach based on a staggered herringbone micromixer (SHM) for the synthesis of TPP cross-linked CS NPs (CS/TPP NPs). Screening design of experiments was applied to systematically evaluate the main process and formulative factors affecting CS/TPP NPs physical properties (mean size and size distribution). Effectiveness of the SHM-assisted manufacturing process was confirmed by the preliminary evaluation of the biological performance of the optimized CS/TPP NPs that were internalized in the cytosol of human mesenchymal stem cells through clathrin-mediated mechanism. Curcumin, selected as a challenging model drug, was successfully loaded into CS/TPP NPs (EE% > 70%) and slowly released up to 48 h via the diffusion mechanism. Finally, the comparison with the conventional bulk mixing method corroborated the efficacy of the microfluidics-assisted method due to the precise control of mixing at microscales.

Mechanics insights of curcumin in myocardial ischemia: Where are we standing?

Cardiovascular disorders are known as one of the main health problems which are associated with mortality worldwide. Myocardial ischemia (MI) is improper blood supply to myocardium which leads from serious complications to life-threatening problems like AMI, atherosclerosis, hypertension, cardiac-hypertrophy as well as diabetic associated complications as diabetic atherosclerosis/cardiomyopathy/hypertension. Despite several efforts, the current therapeutic platforms are not related with significant results. Hence, it seems, developing novel therapies are required. In this regard, increasing evidences indicated, curcumin (CRC) acts as cardioprotective agent. Given that CRC and its analogs exert their cardioprotective effects via affecting on a variety of cardiovascular diseases-related mechanisms (i.e., Inflammation, and oxidative stress). Herein, for first time, we have highlighted the protective impacts of CRC against MI. This review might be a steppingstone for further investigation into the clinical implications of the CRC against MI. Furthermore, it pulls in light of a legitimate concern for scientific community, seeking novel techniques and characteristic dynamic biopharmaceuticals for use against myocardial ischemia.

Curcumin C3 complex®/Bioperine® has antineoplastic activity in mesothelioma: an in vitro and in vivo analysis

BACKGROUND

A major limitation in the treatment for malignant mesothelioma is related to serious side effects caused by chemotherapeutics and to the development of cancer-resistance. Advances in cancer therapies have been reached thanks to the introduction of alternative approaches, such as the use of phytochemicals. Curcumin-C3complex®/Bioperine® is a commercially standardized extract containing a ratio-defined mixture of three curcuminoids and piperine that greatly increase its bioavailability. Interestingly, the anticancer effect of this formulation has been described in different studies and several clinical trials have been started, but to our knowledge none refers to human mesothelioma.

METHODS

Curcumin-C3complex®/Bioperine® anticancer effect was evaluated in vitro in different human mesothelioma cell lines analysing cell proliferation, colony-forming assay, wound healing assays, invasion assay and FACS analysis. In vivo anticancer properties were analysed in a mesothelioma xenograft mouse model in CD1 Nude mice.

RESULTS

Curcumin-C3complex®/Bioperine® in vitro induced growth inhibition in all mesothelioma cell lines analysed in a dose- and time-depended manner and reduced self-renewal cell migration and cell invasive ability. Cell death was due to apoptosis. The analysis of the molecular signalling pathway suggested that intrinsic apoptotic pathway is activated by this treatment. This treatment in vivo delayed the growth of the ectopic tumours in a mesothelioma xenograft mouse model.

CONCLUSIONS

Curcumin-C3complex®/Bioperine® treatment strongly reduces in vitro tumorigenic properties of mesothelioma cells by impairing cellular self-renewal ability, proliferative cell rate and cell migration and delays tumor growth in xenograft mouse model by reducing angiogenesis and increasing apoptosis. Considering that curcumin in vivo synergizes drug effects, its administration to treatment regimen may help to enhance drug therapeutic efficacy in mesothelioma. Our results suggest that implementation of standard pharmacological therapies with novel compounds may pave the way to develop alternative approaches to mesothelioma.

Curcumin: Biological, Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical, and Analytical Aspects

Turmeric is a curry spice that originated from India, which has attracted great interest in recent decades because it contains bioactive curcuminoids (curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin). Curcumin (1,7-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione), a lipophilic polyphenol may work as an anticancer, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging agent as suggested by several in vitro, in vivo studies and clinical trials. However, poor aqueous solubility, bioavailability, and pharmacokinetic profiles limit curcumin’s therapeutic usage. To address these issues, several curcumin formulations have been developed. However, suboptimal sample preparation and analysis methodologies often hamper the accurate evaluation of bioactivities and their clinical efficacy. This review summarizes recent research on biological, pharmaceutical, and analytical aspects of the curcumin. Various formulation techniques and corresponding clinical trials and in vivo outcomes are discussed. A detailed comparison of different sample preparation (ultrasonic, pressurized liquid extraction, microwave, reflux) and analytical (FT-IR, FT-NIR, FT-Raman, UV, NMR, HPTLC, HPLC, and LC-MS/MS) methodologies used for the extraction and quantification of curcuminoids in different matrices, is presented. Application of optimal sample preparation, chromatographic separation, and detection methodologies will significantly improve the assessment of different formulations and biological activities of curcuminoids.

The effect of surface treatment on the brain delivery of curcumin nanosuspension: in vitro and in vivo studies

Background: Curcumin, a bioactive component with multiple characteristics, has been shown to have many therapeutic effects. However, there are several limitations regarding the use of curcumin such as instability, low solubility, poor bioavailability, and rapid elimination. Different approaches have been used to solve these problems.

Materials and methods: In this study, surface-modified nanosuspension (NS) is investigated as a novel brain delivery system. Two different methods were used for the preparation of nanosuspensions with two different stabilizers. The surface of the nanosuspensions was coated with D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1,000 succinate (TPGS) and Tween 80 using physical adsorption. Curcumin NSs were prepared using two different top-down techniques by high-pressure homogenizer and probe sonicator. A validated sensitive and selective high-performance liquid chromatography method using fluorescence detection was used for the determination and quantification of curcumin. Pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of curcumin NSs and solutions after intravenous administration in rats were studied.

Results: Higher levels of curcumin in the brain were detected when Tween 80-coated NS was used compared with the curcumin solution and TPGS coated NS (TPGS-NS) (P-value<0.05). Absorption of ApoE and/or B by Tween 80-coated nanoparticles (NPs) from the blood were caused transferring of these NPs into the brain using receptor-mediated endocytosis. Distribution of TPGS-NS in the brain compared with the curcumin solution was higher (P-value<0.05). Higher levels of curcumin concentration in the liver, spleen, and lung were also observed with TPGS-NS.

Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the surface-coating of NSs by Tween 80 may be used to improve the biodistribution of curcumin in the brain.

Elaboration and characterization of curcumin-loaded Tri-CL-mPEG three-arm copolymeric nanoparticles by a microchannel technology

Purpose: Clinical applications of curcumin (Cur) have been greatly restricted due to its low solubility and poor systemic bioavailability. Three-arm amphiphilic copolymer tricarballylic acid-poly (ε-caprolactone)-methoxypolyethylene glycol (Tri-CL-mPEG) nanoparticles (NPs) were designed to improve the solubility and bioavailability of Cur. The present study adopted a microchannel system to precisely control the preparation of self-assembly polymeric NPs via liquid flow-focusing and gas displacing method.

Methods: The amphiphilic three-arm copolymer Tri-CL-mPEG was synthesized and self-assembled into nearly spherical NPs, yielding Cur encapsulated into NP cores (Cur-NPs). The obtained NPs were evaluated for physicochemical properties, morphology, toxicity, cellular uptake by A549 cells, release in vitro, biodistribution, and pharmacokinetics in vivo.

Results: Rapidly fabricated and isodispersed Cur-NPs prepared by this method had an average diameter of 116±3 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.197±0.008. The drug loading capacity and entrapment efficiency of Cur-NPs were 5.58±0.23% and 91.42±0.39%, respectively. In vitro release experiments showed sustained release of Cur, with cumulative release values of 40.1% and 66.1% at pH 7.4 and pH 5.0, respectively, after 10 days post-incubation. The results of cellular uptake, biodistribution, and in vivo pharmacokinetics experiments demonstrated that Cur-NPs exhibited better biocompatibility and bioavailability, while additionally enabling greater cellular uptake and prolonged circulation with possible spleen, lung, and kidney targeting effects when compared to the properties of free Cur.

Conclusion: These results indicate that Tri-CL-mPEG NPs are promising in clinical applications as a controllable delivery system for hydrophobic drugs.

Nanocarrier-based systems for wound healing

In general, the systems intended for the treatment and recovery of wounds, seek to act as a coating for the damaged area, maintaining an adequate level of humidity, reducing pain, and preventing the invasion and proliferation of microorganisms. Although many of the systems that are currently on the market meet the purposes mentioned above, with the arrival of nanotechnology, it has sought to improve the performance of these coatings. The variety of nano-systems that have been proposed is very extensive, including the use of very different materials (natural or synthetic) ranging from polymers or lipids to systems derived from microorganisms. With the objective of improving the performance of the systems, seeking to combat several of the problems that arise in a wound, especially when it is chronic, these materials have been combined, giving rise to nanocomposites or scaffolds. In recent years, the interest in the development of systems for the treatment of wounds is notable, which is reflected in the increase in publications related to the subject. Therefore, this document presents generalities of systems involving nanocarriers, mentioning some examples of representative systems of each case.

Curcumin-Loaded Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Markedly Enhanced Cytotoxicity in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells

Curcumin, a natural polyphenol extracted from a perennial herb Curcuma longa has been verified for many physiological activities such as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. The direct use of curcumin cytotoxicity studies are limited due to its unstable chemical structure, low bioavailability, easy oxidation, and degradation by ultraviolet (UV) light etc. Trying to overcome this problem, silica-encapsulated curcumin nanoparticles (SCNP) and chitosan with silica co-encapsulated curcumin nanoparticles (CSCNP) were prepared by silicification and biosilicification methods, respectively, and encapsulated curcumin within it. We investigated the antitumor properties of SCNP and CSCNP on different tumor cell lines. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that both SCNP and CSCNP were almost spherical in shape and the average particle size of CSCNP was 75.0 ± 14.62 nm, and SCNP was 61.7 ± 23.04 nm. The results show that CSCNP has more anti-oxidant activity as compared to curcumin and SCNP. The higher cytotoxicity towards different cancerous cell lines was also observed in CSCNP treated tumor cells. It was noted that the SCNP and CSCNP has a high percentage of IC₅₀ values in Hep G2 cells. The encapsulation of curcumin improved instability, antioxidant activity, and antitumor activity. Our results demonstrated that nanoencapsulation of curcumin with silica and chitosan not only increase curcumin stability but also enhance its cytotoxic activity on hepatocellular carcinoma cells. On the basis of these primary studies, the curcumin-loaded nanoparticles appear to be promising as an innovative therapeutic material for the treatment of tumors.

Hypermongone C Accelerates Wound Healing through the Modulation of Inflammatory Factors and Promotion of Fibroblast Migration

The physiology of wound healing is dependent on the crosstalk between inflammatory mediators and cellular components of skin regeneration including fibroblasts and endothelial cells. Therefore, strategies to promote healing must regulate this crosstalk to achieve maximum efficacy. In light of the remarkable potential of natural compounds to target multiple signaling mechanisms, this study aims to demonstrate the potential of hypermongone C, a polycyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinol (PPAP), to accelerate wound closure by concurrently enhancing fibroblast proliferation and migration, promoting angiogenesis, and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines. This compound belongs to a family of plants (Hypericum) that traditionally have been used to treat injuries. Nevertheless, the exact biological evidence to support the claims is still missing. The results were obtained using a traditional model of cell scratch assay and endothelial cell tube formation, combined with the analysis of protein and gene expression by macrophages. In summary, the data suggest that hypermongone C is a multi-targeting therapeutic natural compound for the promotion of tissue repair and the regulation of inflammation.

Crafting Polymeric and Peptidic Hydrogels for Improved Wound Healing

Wound healing is a multifaceted biological process involving the replacement of damaged tissues and cellular structures, restoring the skin barrier's function, and maintaining internal homeostasis. Over the past two decades, numerous approaches are undertaken to improve the quality and healing rate of complex acute and chronic wounds, including synthetic and natural polymeric scaffolds, skin grafts, and supramolecular hydrogels. In this context, this review assesses the advantages and drawbacks of various types of supramolecular hydrogels including both polymeric and peptide-based hydrogels for wound healing applications. The molecular design features of natural and synthetic polymers are examined, as well as therapeutic-based and drug-free peptide hydrogels, and the strategies for each system are analyzed to integrate key elements such as biocompatibility, bioactivity, stimuli-responsiveness, site specificity, biodegradability, and clearance.

The nanotech potential of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) in food technology: A review

New trends in food are emerging in response to consumer awareness of the relationship between food and health, which has triggered the need to generate new alternatives that meet the expectations of the market. Revolutionary fields such as nanotechnology have been used for the encapsulation of nutritional ingredients and have great potential for the management of food additives derived from fruits and plant species. Turmeric, a spice that has been used as a dyeing agent, is recognized for its properties in Ayurveda medicine. This article aims to provide an overview of the characteristics of turmeric as an ingredient for the food industry, including its properties as a coloring agent, antioxidant, and functional ingredient. This article also highlights the potential of nanotechnology to enhance these properties of turmeric and increase the possibilities for the application of its components, such as cellulose and starch, in the development of nanostructures for food development.

Effect of curcumin-nanoemulsion associated with photodynamic therapy in breast adenocarcinoma cell line

Curcumin, a natural compound has several antineoplastic activities and is a promising natural photosensitizer used in photodynamic therapy. However, its low solubility in physiological medium limit the clinical use of curcumin. This study aimed to analyze the action of curcumin-nanoemulsion, a new and well-designed Drug Delivery System (DDS+) molecule, used as a photosensitizing agent in photodynamic therapy in an in vitro breast cancer model, MCF-7 cells. The empty nanoemulsion fulfils all necessary requirements to be an excellent DDS. Furthermore, the use of curcumin-nanoemulsion in photodynamic therapy resulted in a high phototoxic effect after activation at 440 nm, decreasing to <10% viable tumor cells after two irradiations and increasing the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The use of curcumin-nanoemulsion associated with photodynamic therapy resulted in an increase in the levels of caspase 3/7 activity for the studied MCF-7 cell model, indicating that this therapy triggers a cascade of events that lead to cell death, such as cellular apoptosis. In conclusion, curcumin-nanoemulsion proved to be efficient as a photosensitizing agent, had phototoxic effects, significantly decreased the proliferation of MCF-7 cells and stimulating the ROS production in combination with photodynamic therapy, so, this formulation has a great potential for use in treatment of breast cancer.

Curcumin in tissue engineering: A traditional remedy for modern medicine

Curcumin is the principal polyphenolic compound present in turmeric with broad applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. It has some important inherent properties with the potential to facilitate tissue healing, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and antibacterial activities. Therefore, curcumin has been used for the treatment of various damaged tissues, especially wound injuries. There are different forms of curcumin, among which nano-formulations are of a great importance in regenerative medicine. It is also important to design sophisticated delivery systems for controlled/localized delivery of curcumin to the target tissues and organs. Although there are many reports on the advantages of this compound, further research is required to fully explore its clinical usage. The review describes the physicochemical and biological properties of curcumin and the current state of the evidence on its applications in tissue engineering. © 2018 BioFactors, 45(2):135-151, 2019.