Mechanism of inhibition of P-glycoprotein mediated efflux by vitamin E TPGS: influence on ATPase activity and membrane fluidity

Enhanced effect of pH-sensitive mixed copolymer micelles for overcoming multidrug resistance of doxorubicin

P-glycoprotein (P-gp) mediated drug efflux has been recognized as a key factor contributing to the multidrug resistance (MDR) in tumor cells. To address this issue, a new pH-sensitive mixed copolymer micelles system composed of hyaluronic acid-g-poly(l-histidine) (HA-PHis) and d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 2000 (TPGS2k) copolymers was developed to co-deliver doxorubicin (DOX) and TPGS2k into drug-resistant breast cancer MCF-7 cells (MCF-7/ADR). The DOX-loaded HA-PHis/TPGS2k mixed micelles (HPHM/TPGS2k) were characterized to have a unimodal size distribution, high DOX loading content and a pH dependent drug release profile due to the protonation of poly(l-histidine). As compared to HA-PHis micelles (HPHM), the HPHM/TPGS2k showed higher and comparable cytotoxicity against MCF-7/ADR cells and MCF-7 cells, respectively. The enhanced MDR reversal effect was attributed to the higher amount of cellular uptake of HPHM/TPGS2k in MCF-7/ADR cells than HPHM, arising from the inhibition of P-gp mediated drug efflux by TPGS2k. The measurements of P-gp expression level and mitochondrial membrane potential indicate that the blank HPHM/TPGS2k inhibited P-gp activity by reducing mitochondrial membrane potential and depletion of ATP but without inhibition of P-gp expression. In vivo study of micelles in tumor-bearing mice indicate that HPHM/TPGS2k could reach the tumor site more effectively than HPHM. The pH-sensitive mixed micelles system has been demonstrated to be a promising approach for overcoming the MDR.

Development and evaluation of magnetic microemulsion: tool for targeted delivery of camptothecin to BALB/c mice-bearing breast cancer

PURPOSE

Development and evaluation of camptothecin-loaded-microemulsion (ME) and -magnetic microemulsion (MME) for passive/active-targeted delivery to BALB/c mice-bearing breast cancer.

METHODS

Based on the pseudo-ternary phase diagrams camptothecin-loaded-MEs and -MMEs were developed using benzyl alcohol:Captex 300 (3:1), TPGS:Tween 80 (2:1) and water. Furthermore, characterized for their droplet size distribution, magnetic susceptibility and effect of droplet size in plasma and evaluated for in vitro and in vivo targeting potential, drug release, haemolytic potential, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, in vivo biodistribution and lactone ring stability.

RESULTS

Drug-loaded MEs showed uniform droplet distribution, extended drug release (76.07 ± 4.30% at 24 h), acceptable level of haemolytic activity (<20%), significant cytotoxicity (129 ± 3.9 ng/mL) against MCF-7 cancer cells and low DNA damage in lymphocytes. Targeting potential of MMEs was documented in 4T1 breast cancer-induced BALB/c mice. MMEs were concentrated more at the target tissue on introduction of external magnetic field. In vivo biodistribution study documented the active targeting of 5067.56 ± 354.72 ng/gm and passive targeting of 1677.58 ± 134.20 ng/gm camptothecin to breast cancer from MME and ME, respectively. Lactone stability study shows around 80% of the lactone stable at 24 h.

CONCLUSIONS

Developed ME and MME may act as a promising nanocarrier for efficient targeting of breast cancer tissues.

Enhanced oral absorption and therapeutic effect of acetylpuerarin based on D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate nanoemulsions

Background

Acetylpuerarin (AP), because of its lower water solubility, shows poor absorption that hinders its therapeutic application. Thus, the aim of this study was to prepare nanoemulsions for AP, enhance its oral bioavailability, and thus improve the therapeutic effect.

Methods

The nanoemulsions stabilized by D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) were prepared by high-pressure homogenization and characterized in terms of particle size, drug loading, morphology, and in vitro drug release. A lipid digestion model was used to predict in vivo drug solubilization in the gastrointestinal environment. The pharmacokinetics of AP formulations were performed in rats; meanwhile, a chylomicron flow-blocking rat model was used to evaluate the lymphatic drug transport. Moreover, the therapeutic effects of AP nanoemulsions on the model of focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion for brain injury were also assessed.

Results

The nanoemulsions with a droplet size of 150 nm were well stabilized by TPGS and showed a high loading capacity for AP. In the digestion model, the distribution of AP in aqueous phase/pellet phase was about 90%/10% for nanoemulsions and 5%/95% for oil solution, indicating that the drug encapsulated in nanoemulsions would present in solubilized form after transportation into the gastrointestinal tract, whereas drug precipitation would occur as the oil solution was orally administered. The area under the curve value of AP nanoemulsions was 5.76±0.56 μg·hour·mL⁻¹, or was about 2.6 and 1.7 times as great as that of suspension and oil solution, respectively, indicating enhanced drug absorption and thus achieving a better neuroprotection effect on cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury. The values of peak plasma concentration and area under the curve from the blocking model were significantly less than those of the control model, suggesting that the lymphatic transport performed a very important role in absorption enhancement.

Conclusion

Enhanced oral bioavailability in nanoemulsions was achieved via the mechanism of the maintenance of drug solubilization in the gastrointestinal tract and the enhancement of lymphatic transport, which resulted in therapeutic improvement of cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury.

Surfactant-based drug delivery systems for treating drug-resistant lung cancer

Among all cancers, lung cancer is the major cause of deaths. Lung cancer can be categorized into two classes for prognostic and treatment purposes: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Both categories of cancer are resistant to certain drugs. Various mechanisms behind drug resistance are over-expression of superficial membrane proteins [glycoprotein (P-gp)], lung resistance-associated proteins, aberration of the intracellular enzyme system, enhancement of the cell repair system and deregulation of cell apoptosis. Structure-performance relationships and chemical compatibility are consequently major fundamentals in surfactant-based formulations, with the intention that a great deal investigation is committed to this region. With the purpose to understand the potential of P-gp in transportation of anti-tumor drugs to cancer cells with much effectiveness and specificity, several surfactant-based delivery systems have been developed which may include microspheres, nanosized drug carriers (nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, stealth liposomes, nanogels, polymer-drug conjugates), novel powders, hydrogels and mixed micellar systems intended for systemic and/or localized delivery.

Polymers influencing transportability profile of drug

Drug release from various polymers is generally governed by the type of polymer/s incorporated in the formulation and mechanism of drug release from polymer/s. A single polymer may show one or more mechanisms of drug release out of which one mechanism is majorly followed for drug release. Some of the common mechanisms of drug release from polymers were, diffusion, swelling, matrix release, leaching of drug, etc. Mechanism or rate of drug release from a polymer or a combination of polymers can be predicted by using different computational methods or models. These models were capable of predicting drug release from its dosage form in advance without actual formulation and testing of drug release from dosage form. Quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) is an important tool used in the prediction of various physicochemical properties of actives as well as inactives. Since last several decades QSPR has been applied in new drug development for reducing the total number of drugs to be synthesized, as it involves a selection of the most desirable compound of interest. This technique was also applied in predicting in vivo performance of drug/s for various parameters. QSPR serves as a predictive tool to correlate structural descriptors of molecules with biological as well as physicochemical properties. Several researchers have contributed at different extents in this area to modify various properties of pharmaceuticals. The present review is focused on a study of different polymers that influence the transportability profiles of drugs along with the application of QSPR either to study different properties of polymers that regulate drug release or in predicting drug transportability from different polymer systems used in formulations.

Nonionic surfactant vesicles in ocular delivery: innovative approaches and perspectives

With the recent advancement in the field of ocular therapy, drug delivery approaches have been elevated to a new concept in terms of nonionic surfactant vesicles (NSVs), that is, the ability to deliver the therapeutic agent to a patient in a staggered profile. However the major drawbacks of the conventional drug delivery system like lacking of permeability through ocular barrier and poor bioavailability of water soluble drugs have been overcome by the emergence of NSVs. The drug loaded NSVs (DNSVs) can be fabricated by simple and cost-effective techniques with improved physical stability and enhance bioavailability without blurring the vision. The increasing research interest surrounding this delivery system has widened the areas of pharmaceutics in particular with many more subdisciplines expected to coexist in the near future. This review gives a comprehensive emphasis on NSVs considerations, formulation approaches, physicochemical properties, fabrication techniques, and therapeutic significances of NSVs in the field of ocular delivery and also addresses the future development of modified NSVs.

Perspective and potential of oral lipid-based delivery to optimize pharmacological therapies against cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the major cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Despite the large number of cardiovascular drugs available for pharmacological therapies, factors limiting the efficient oral use are identified, including low water solubility, pre-systemic metabolism, food intake effects and short half-life. Numerous in vivo proof-of-concepts studies are presented to highlight the viability of lipid-based delivery to optimize the oral delivery of cardiovascular drugs. In particular, the key performance enhancement roles of oral lipid-based drug delivery systems (LBDDSs) are identified, which include i) improving the oral bioavailability, ii) sustaining/controlling drug release, iii) improving drug stability, iv) reducing food intake effect, v) targeting to injured sites, and vi) potential for combination therapy. Mechanisms involved in achieving these features, range of applicability, and limits of available systems are detailed. Future research and development efforts to address these issues are discussed, which is of significant value in directing future research work in fostering translation of lipid-based formulations into clinical applications to reduce the prevalence of CVDs.

Combinational delivery of hydrophobic and hydrophilic anticancer drugs in single nanoemulsions to treat MDR in cancer

In this study, we developed the core-matched nanoemulsions (NEs) functionalized by vitamin E (VE) and tocopherol poly(ethylene glycol)succinate (TPGS) to codeliver hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs, paclitaxel (PTX) and 5-fluoroucacil (5-FU), in order to achieve synergistic effects and overcome PTX resistance in a multi-drug-resistant (MDR) human epidermal carcinoma cell line KB-8-5. Antitumor effect of the combination therapy based on core-matched technology (CMT) was evaluated in vitro and in vivo in mice. The core-matched NEs showed entrapment efficiency of >90% and were of nanoscale particle size and negative zeta-potential. The combined core-matched NEs exhibited concentration and time-dependent cytotoxicity against PTX-sensitive KB-3-1 cells and PTX-resistant KB-8-5 cells as well as an obviously increased G₂/M phase block. The improvements in therapeutic response over either PTX–VE or 5-FU–TPGS therapy alone were demonstrated by the ability to effectively induce the apoptosis of tumor cells via up-regulation of tumor suppressor p53 and β-tubulin and by the significant inhibition of cell cycle progression. The combination therapy led to dramatic inhibition of tumor growth with little toxicity in vivo, especially in the PTX-resistant KB-8-5 tumors, whereas Taxol had little therapeutic effect. This was mainly ascribed to the synergism of PTX and 5-FU and the reverse of MDR by the inhibition of ATPase activity by VE and TPGS. Coencapsulation of two chemotherapeutic agents with different mechanisms allows simultaneous interruption of diverse anticancer pathways, resulting in increased therapeutic response and low toxicity. The CMT markedly facilitated the long circulation of PTX and 5-FU, which was closely associated with the high accumulation of chemotherapeutic agents within the tumors and the improvement of antitumor efficacy. The current study demonstrated the feasibility of incorporating PTX and 5-FU targeting to different pathways into a single core-matched NE for the reversal of MDR and synergism in cancer therapy.

Vitamin E-based nanomedicines for anti-cancer drug delivery

This review aims to highlight the development of novel vitamin E conjugates for the vectorization of active pharmaceutical ingredients through nanotechnologies. The physico-chemical and biological properties of vitamin E derivatives offer multiple advantages in drug delivery like biocompatibility, improvement of drug solubility and anticancer activity. Nanomedicines have shown high potential in drug delivery since (i) they may offer better drug biopharmaceutical properties such as longer half-life or better bioavailability and (ii) they have shown benefits in cancer therapy by improving anticancer drug therapeutic index. Vitamin E-based nanomedicines were developed to combine the pharmaceutical properties of both vitamin E and nanomedicines for two purposes: (i) to improve water solubility of hydrophobic drugs and (ii) to enhance the therapeutic efficiency of anticancer agents. This review is divided into three parts: the first one describes the biology and the metabolic functions of vitamin E, the second one focuses on the anticancer activity of two vitamin E derivatives: vitamin E succinate (TOS) and vitamin E polyethylene glycol-succinate (TPGS). Finally, in the third part, we discuss vitamin E derivatives based-nanomedicines.

Surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles for oral delivery of docetaxel: enhanced intestinal absorption and lymphatic uptake

Docetaxel is a potent anticancer drug, but development of an oral formulation has been hindered mainly due to its poor oral bioavailability. In this study, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) surface-modified by Tween 80 or D-alpha-tocopheryl poly(ethylene glycol 1000) succinate (TPGS 1000) were prepared and evaluated in terms of their feasibility as oral delivery systems for docetaxel. Tween 80-emulsified and TPGS 1000-emulsified tristearin-based lipidic nanoparticles were prepared by a solvent-diffusion method, and their particle size distribution, zeta potential, drug loading, and particle morphology were characterized. An in vitro release study showed a sustained-release profile of docetaxel from the SLNs compared with an intravenous docetaxel formulation (Taxotere®). Tween 80-emulsified SLNs showed enhanced intestinal absorption, lymphatic uptake, and relative oral bioavailability of docetaxel compared with Taxotere in rats. These results may be attributable to the absorption-enhancing effects of the tristearin nanoparticle. Moreover, compared with Tween 80-emulsified SLNs, the intestinal absorption and relative oral bioavailability of docetaxel in rats were further improved in TPGS 1000-emulsified SLNs, probably due to better inhibition of drug efflux by TPGS 1000, along with intestinal lymphatic uptake. Taken together, it is worth noting that these surface-modified SLNs may serve as efficient oral delivery systems for docetaxel.

In vitro susceptibilities of wild and drug resistant leishmania donovani amastigote stages to andrographolide nanoparticle: role of vitamin E derivative TPGS for nanoparticle efficacy

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a chronic protozoan infection in humans associated with significant global morbidity and mortality. There is an urgent need to develop drugs and strategy that will improve therapeutic response for effective clinical treatment of drug resistant VL. To address this need, andrographolide (AG) nanoparticles were designed with P-gp efflux inhibitor vitamin E TPGS (D-α-tocopheryl polyethyleneglycol 1000 succinate) for sensitivity against drug resistant Leishmania strains. AG loaded PLGA (50∶50) nanoparticles (AGnps) stabilized by vitamin E TPGS were prepared for delivery into macrophage cells infested with sensitive and drug resistant amastigotes of Leishmania parasites. Physico-chemical characterization of AGnps by photon correlation spectroscopy exhibited an average particle size of 179.6 nm, polydispersity index of 0.245 and zeta potential of -37.6 mV. Atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy visualization revealed spherical nanoparticles with smooth surfaces. AGnps displayed sustained AG release up to 288 hours as well as minimal particle aggregation and drug loss even after three months study period. Antileishmanial activity as revealed from selectivity index in wild-type strain was found to be significant for AGnp with TPGS in about one-tenth of the dosage of the free AG and one-third of the dosage of the AGnp without TPGS. Similar observations were also found in case of in vitro generated drug resistant and field isolated resistant strains of Leishmania. Cytotoxicity of AGnp with and without TPGS was significantly less than standard antileishmanial chemotherapeutics like amphotericin B, paromomycin or sodium stibogluconate. Macrophage uptake of AGnps was almost complete within one hour as evident from fluorescent microscopy studies. Thus, based on these observations, it can be concluded that the low-selectivity of AG in in vitro generated drug resistant and field isolated resistant strains was improved in case of AG nanomedicines designed with vitamin E TPGS.

Inhibition mechanism of P-glycoprotein mediated efflux by mPEG-PLA and influence of PLA chain length on P-glycoprotein inhibition activity

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of monomethoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(D,L-lactic acid) (mPEG-PLA) on the activity of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in Caco-2 cells and further unravel the relationship between PLA chain length in mPEG-PLA and influence on P-gp efflux and the action mechanism. The transport results of rhodamine 123 (R123) across Caco-2 cell monolayers suggested that mPEG-PLA unimers were responsible for its P-gp inhibitory effect. Furthermore, transport studies of R123 revealed that the inhibitory potential of P-gp efflux by mPEG-PLA analogues was strongly correlated with their structural features and showed that the hydrophilic mPEG-PLA copolymers with an intermediate PLA chain length and 10.20 of hydrophilic-lipophilic balance were more effective at inhibiting P-gp efflux in Caco-2 cells. The fluorescence polarization measurement results ruled out the plasma membrane fluidization as a contributor for inhibition of P-gp by mPEG-PLA. Concurrently, mPEG-PLA inhibited neither basal P-gp ATPase (ATP is adenosine triphosphate) activity nor substrate stimulated P-gp ATPase activity, suggesting that mPEG-PLA seemed not to be a substrate of P-gp and a competitive inhibitor. No evident alteration in P-gp surface level was detected by flow cytometry upon exposure of the cells to mPEG-PLA. The depletion of intracellular ATP, which was likely to be a result of partial inhibition of cellular metabolism, was directly correlated with inhibitory potential for P-gp mediated efflux by mPEG-PLA analogues. Hence, intracellular ATP-depletion appeared to be possible explanation to the inhibition mechanism of P-gp by mPEG-PLA. Taken together, the establishment of a relationship between PLA chain length and impact on P-gp efflux activity and interpretation of action mechanism of mPEG-PLA on P-gp are of fundamental importance and will facilitate future development of mPEG-PLA in the drug delivery area.

Vitamin E reverses multidrug resistance in vitro and in vivo

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major obstacle to successful and effective chemotherapeutic treatments of cancers. This study explored the reversal effects of vitamin E on MDR tumor cells in vitro and in vivo, elucidating the potential mechanism of this reversal. VE at a concentration of 50 μM exhibited a significant reversal of the MDR effect (compared to only PTX in DMSO, p<0.05) in two human MDR cell lines (H460/taxR and KB-8-5). The MDR cell xenograft model was established to investigate the effect of VE on reversing MDR in vivo. Mice intravenously injected with Taxol (10 mg/kg) with VE (500 mg/kg, IP) showed an ability to overcome the MDR. VE and its derivatives can significantly increase intracellular accumulation of rhodamine 123 and doxorubicin (P-gp substrate), but not alter the levels of P-gp expression. These treatments also did not decrease the levels of intracellular ATP, but were still able to inhibit the verapamil-induced ATPase activity of P-gp. The new application of VE as an MDR sensitizer will be attractive due to the safety of this treatment.

Design and characterization of PEG-derivatized vitamin E as a nanomicellar formulation for delivery of paclitaxel

Various PEG-Vitamin E conjugates including d-α-tocopheryl poly(ethylene glycol) succinate 1000 (TPGS) have been extensively studied as a nonionic surfactant in various drug delivery systems. However, limited information is available about the structure-activity relationship of PEG-Vitamin E conjugates as a micellar formulation for paclitaxel (PTX). In this study, four PEG-Vitamin E conjugates were developed that vary in the molecular weight of PEG (PEG2K vs PEG5K) and the molar ratio of PEG/Vitamin E (1/1 vs 1/2) in the conjugates. These conjugates were systematically characterized with respect to CMC, PTX loading efficiency, stability, and their efficiency in delivery of PTX to tumor cells in vitro and in vivo. Our data show that PEG5K-conjugates have lower CMC values and are more effective in PTX loading with respect to both loading capacity and stability. The conjugates with two Vitamin E molecules also worked better than the conjugates with one molecule of Vitamin E, particularly for PEG2K-system. Furthermore, all of the PEG-Vitamin E conjugates can induce significant suppression of P-gp function. More importantly, PTX-loaded PEG5K-VE2 resulted in significantly improved tumor growth inhibitory effect in comparison to PTX formulated in PEG2K-VE or PEG2K-VE2, as well as Cremophor EL (Taxol) in a syngeneic mouse model of breast cancer (4T1.2). Our study suggests that PEG5K-Vitmin E2 may hold promise as an improved micellar formulation for in vivo delivery of anticancer agents such as PTX.

Polymeric micelles, a promising drug delivery system to enhance bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs

Oral administration is the most commonly used and readily accepted form of drug delivery; however, it is find that many drugs are difficult to attain enough bioavailability when administered via this route. Polymeric micelles (PMs) can overcome some limitations of the oral delivery acting as carriers able to enhance drug absorption, by providing (1) protection of the loaded drug from the harsh environment of the GI tract, (2) release of the drug in a controlled manner at target sites, (3) prolongation of the residence time in the gut by mucoadhesion, and (4) inhibition of efflux pumps to improve the drug accumulation. To explain the mechanisms for enhancement of oral bioavailability, we discussed the special stability of PMs, the controlled release properties of pH-sensitive PMs, the prolongation of residence time with mucoadhesive PMs, and the P-gp inhibitors commonly used in PMs, respectively. The primary purpose of this paper is to illustrate the potential of PMs for delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs with bioavailability being well maintained.

Mechanisms of chitosan-coated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles for improving oral absorption of 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin

Chitosan-modified poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (CHI/PLGA NPs) loaded with 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN-38), named CHI/PLGA/SN-38 NPs, were successfully prepared using an oil-in-water (O/W) solvent evaporation method. The physicochemical properties of the novel NPs were characterized by DLS, Zeta potential, SEM, DSC, XRD, and FTIR. The encapsulation efficiency and drug loading content were 71.83 (±2.77)% and 6.79 (±0.26)%, respectively. In vitro drug release in the simulated gastric juice was lower than that in the intestinal juice. In situ single-pass intestinal perfusion (SPIP) studies indicated a dramatic improvement of drug absorption as a result of the synergistic effect between CHI and PLGA on P-glycoprotein (Pgp) inhibition. CHI/PLGA NPs showed high cellular uptake and low efflux for drugs in Caco-2 cells. The cytotoxicity studies revealed that CHI/PLGA NPs had a transient effect on the membrane integrity, but did not have an influence on cell viability. Based on the in vitro release studies, SPIP, and intracellular drug accumulation and transport investigations, we speculate rationally that CHI/PLGA NPs were mainly internalized in the form of intact NPs, thus escaping the recognition of enterocyte Pgp and avoiding efflux into the apical part of the enterocytes. After partial release of drugs inside the enterocytes, CHI/PLGA interfered with the microenvironment of Pgp and further weakened the Pgp-mediated efflux. Then, the drug-loaded NPs exited via the exocytose effect from the basal part of the enterocytes and entered the blood circulation. These results showed that CHI/PLGA NPs would be smart oral delivery carriers for antineoplastic agents that are also Pgp substrates.

Anthracycline Nano-Delivery Systems to Overcome Multiple Drug Resistance: A Comprehensive Review

Anthracyclines (doxorubicin, daunorubicin, and idarubicin) are very effective chemotherapeutic drugs to treat many cancers; however, the development of multiple drug resistance (MDR) is one of the major limitations for their clinical applications. Nano-delivery systems have emerged as the novel cancer therapeutics to overcome MDR. Up until now, many anthracycline nano-delivery systems have been developed and reported to effectively circumvent MDR both in-vitro and in-vivo, and some of these systems have even advanced to clinical trials, such as the HPMA-doxorubicin (HPMA-DOX) conjugate. Doxil, a DOX PEGylated liposome formulation, was developed and approved by FDA in 1995. Unfortunately, this formulation does not address the MDR problem. In this comprehensive review, more than ten types of developed anthracycline nano-delivery systems to overcome MDR and their proposed mechanisms are covered and discussed, including liposomes; polymeric micelles, conjugate and nanoparticles; peptide/protein conjugates; solid-lipid, magnetic, gold, silica, and cyclodextrin nanoparticles; and carbon nanotubes.

TPGS emulsified zein nanoparticles enhanced oral bioavailability of daidzin: in vitro characteristics and in vivo performance

A novel drug delivery system, TPGS 1000 (TPGS) emulsified zein nanoparticles (TZN), were designed with an objective to improve the oral bioavailability of daidzin, an isoflavone glycoside with estrogenic activities. Zein nanoparticles (ZN) and TZN were fabricated using an antisolvent method. They were found to be spherical in shape with a mean size around 200 nm and a low polydispersity. Their zeta potentials were about +25 mV at pH 5.5 and -23 mV at pH 7.4. Adding TPGS as an emulsifier increased the encapsulation efficiency of daidzin in ZN from 53% to 63%. Daidzin loaded TZN had a slower daidzin release compared with daidzin loaded ZN in both simulated digestive fluids and a pH 7.4 buffer. Confocal laser scanning microscopy suggested that the cellular uptake of coumarin-6 labeled TZN in human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells were significantly higher than fluorescent ZN. Cellular uptake and transport studies revealed that daidzin in TZN were taken up more efficiently into Caco-2 cells and transported more quickly through Caco-2 monolayer than daidzin solution. A pharmacokinetic study demonstrated that the Cmax of daidzein in mice after oral administration of daidzin loaded TZN was 5.66 ± 0.16 μM, which was improved by 2.64-fold compared with that of daidzin solution (2.14 ± 0.04 μM). Moreover, the areas under the curve (AUC0-12 h) for daidzin loaded in TZN were enhanced by 2.4-fold compared with that of daidzin solution. These results suggested that TZN could be an effective strategy to improve the oral bioavailability of isoflavone glycosides like daidzin.

Surface modification of TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA) nanoparticles with polyethyleneimine as a co-delivery system of TRAIL and endostatin for cervical cancer gene therapy

The efficient delivery of therapeutic genes into cells of interest is a critical challenge to broad application of non-viral vector systems. In this research, a novel TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA) nanoparticle modified with polyethyleneimine was applied to be a vector of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and endostatin for cervical cancer gene therapy. Firstly, a novel biodegradable copolymer, TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA), was synthesized and characterized. The nanoparticles were fabricated by an emulsion/solvent evaporation method and then further modified with polyethyleneimine (PEI) carrying TRAIL and/or endostatin genes. The uptake of pIRES2-EGFP and/or pDsRED nanoparticles by HeLa cells were observed by fluorescence microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The cell viability of TRAIL/endostatin-loaded nanoparticles in HeLa cells was assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide assay. Severe combined immunodeficient mice carrying HeLa tumor xenografts were treated in groups of six including phosphate-buffered saline control, blank TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA) nanoparticles, blank TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA)/PEI nanoparticles, and three types of gene nanoparticles. The activity was assessed using average increase in survival time, body weight, and solid tumor volume. All the specimens were then prepared as formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue sections for hematoxylin-eosin staining. The data showed that the nanoparticles could efficiently deliver plasmids into HeLa cells. The cytotoxicity of the HeLa cells was significantly increased by TRAIL/endostatin-loaded nanoparticles when compared with control groups. The use of TPGS in combination with TRAIL and endostatin had synergistic antitumor effects. In conclusion, the TRAIL/endostatin-loaded nanoparticles offer considerable potential as an ideal candidate for in vivo cancer gene delivery.

The applications of Vitamin E TPGS in drug delivery

D-α-Tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (simply TPGS or Vitamin E TPGS) is formed by the esterification of Vitamin E succinate with polyethylene glycol 1000. As novel nonionic surfactant, it exhibits amphipathic properties and can form stable micelles in aqueous vehicles at concentration as low as 0.02 wt%. It has been widely investigated for its emulsifying, dispersing, gelling, and solubilizing effects on poorly water-soluble drugs. It can also act as a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitor and has been served as an excipient for overcoming multidrug resistance (MDR) and for increasing the oral bioavailability of many anticancer drugs. Since TPGS has been approved by FDA as a safe pharmaceutic adjuvant, many TPGS-based drug delivery systems (DDS) have been developed. In this review, we discuss TPGS properties as a P-gp inhibitor, solubilizer/absorption and permeation enhancer in drug delivery and TPGS-related formulations such as nanocrystals, nanosuspensions, tablets/solid dispersions, adjuvant in vaccine systems, nutrition supplement, plasticizer of film, anticancer reagent and so on. This review will greatly impact and bring out new insights in the use of TPGS in DDS.

Key structure of brij for overcoming multidrug resistance in cancer

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major barrier to the chemotherapy treatment of many cancers. However, some nonionic surfactants, for example, Brij, have been shown to restore the sensitivity of MDR cells to such drugs. The aim of this study was to explore the reversal effect of Brij on MDR tumor cells and elucidate its potential mechanism. Our data indicate that the structure of Brij surfactants plays an important role in overcoming MDR in cancer, that is, modified hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (MHLB, the ratio of the number (n) of hydrophilic repeating units of ethylene oxide (EO) to the number (m) of carbons in the hydrophobic tail (CH(2))). Cell viability of cells treated with paclitaxel (PTX) nanocrystals (NCs) formulated with Brij showed positive correlations with MHLB (R(2) = 0.8195); the higher the ratio of Brij to PTX in NCs, the higher cytotoxicity induced by the PTX NCs. Significant increases in intracellular accumulation of (3)H-PTX (P-gp substrate) were observed in an MDR cell line (H460/taxR cells) treated with Brij 78 (MHLB = 1.11) and Brij 97 (MHLB = 0.6). After treatments with Brij 78 and Brij 97, the levels of intracellular ATP were decreased and verapamil-induced ATPase activities of P-gp were inhibited in multidrug resistant cells. The responses of the cells to Brij 78 and Brij 97 in ATP depletion studies correlated with the cell viability induced by PTX/Brij NCs and intracellular accumulation of (3)H-PTX. Brij 78 and Brij 97 could not alter the levels of P-gp expression detected by Western blotting. These findings may provide some insight into the likelihood of further development of more potent P-gp inhibitors for the treatment of MDR in cancer.

Alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate-emulsified poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles for reversal of multidrug resistance in vitro

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is one of the factors in the failure of anticancer chemotherapy. In order to enhance the anticancer effect of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrates, inhibition of the P-gp efflux pump on MDR cells is a good tactic. We designed novel multifunctional drug-loaded alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS)/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (TPGS/PLGA/SN-38 NPs; SN-38 is 7-ethyl-10-hydroxy-camptothecin), with TPGS-emulsified PLGA NPs as the carrier and modulator of the P-gp efflux pump and SN-38 as the model drug. TPGS/PLGA/SN-38 NPs were prepared using a modified solvent extraction/evaporation method. Physicochemical characterizations of TPGS/PLGA/SN-38 NPs were in conformity with the principle of nano-drug delivery systems (nDDSs), including a diameter of about 200 nm, excellent spherical particles with a smooth surface, narrow size distribution, appropriate surface charge, and successful drug-loading into the NPs. The cytotoxicity of TPGS/PLGA/SN-38 NPs to MDR cells was increased by 3.56 times compared with that of free SN-38. Based on an intracellular accumulation study relative to the time-dependent uptake and efflux inhibition, we suggest novel mechanisms of MDR reversal of TPGS/PLGA NPs. Firstly, TPGS/PLGA/SN-38 NPs improved the uptake of the loaded drug by clathrin-mediated endocytosis in the form of unbroken NPs. Simultaneously, intracellular NPs escaped the recognition of P-gp by MDR cells. After SN-38 was released from TPGS/PLGA/SN-38 NPs in MDR cells, TPGS or/and PLGA may modulate the efflux microenvironment of the P-gp pump, such as mitochondria and the P-gp domain with an ATP-binding site. Finally, the controlled-release drug entered the nucleus of the MDR cell to induce cytotoxicity. The present study showed that TPGS-emulsified PLGA NPs could be functional carriers in nDDS for anticancer drugs that are also P-gp substrates. More importantly, to enhance the therapeutic effect of P-gp substrates, this work might provide a new insight into the design of pharmacologically inactive excipients that can serve as P-gp modulators instead of drugs that are P-gp inhibitors.

Co-delivery of docetaxel and endostatin by a biodegradable nanoparticle for the synergistic treatment of cervical cancer

Cervical cancer remains a major problem in women's health worldwide. In this research, a novel biodegradable d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate-b-poly(ε-caprolactone-ran-glycolide) (TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA)) nanoparticle (NP) was developed as a co-delivery system of docetaxel and endostatin for the synergistic treatment of cervical cancer. Docetaxel-loaded TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA) NPs were prepared and further modified by polyethyleneimine for coating plasmid pShuttle2-endostatin. All NPs were characterized in size, surface charge, morphology, and in vitro release of docetaxel and pDNA. The uptake of coumarin 6-loaded TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA)/PEI-pDsRED by HeLa cells was observed via fluorescent microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Endostatin expression in HeLa cells transfected by TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA)/PEI-pShuttle2-endostatin NPs was detected using Western blot analysis, and the cell viability of different NP-treated HeLa cells was determined by MTT assay. The HeLa cells from the tumor model, nude mice, were treated with various NPs including docetaxel-loaded-TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA)/PEI-endostatin NPs, and their survival time, tumor volume and body weight were monitored during regimen process. The tumor tissue histopathology was analyzed using hematoxylin and eosin staining, and microvessel density in tumor tissue was evaluated immunohistochemically. The results showed that the TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA)/PEI NPs can efficiently and simultaneously deliver both coumarin-6 and plasmids into HeLa cells, and the expression of endostatin was verified via Western blot analysis. Compared with control groups, the TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA)/PEI-pShuttle2-endostatin NPs significantly decreased the cell viability of HeLa cells (p < 0.01), inhibited the growth of tumors, and even eradicated the tumors. The underlying mechanism is attributed to synergistic anti-tumor effects by the combined use of docetaxel, endostatin, and TPGS released from NPs. The TPGS-b-(PCL-ran-PGA) NPs could function as multifunctional carrier for chemotherapeutic drugs and genetic material delivery, and offer considerable potential as an ideal candidate for in vivo cancer therapy.

Mechanism of inhibition of P-glycoprotein mediated efflux by Pluronic P123/F127 block copolymers: relationship between copolymer concentration and inhibitory activity

The aim of this study was to clarify the relationship between the concentration of Pluronic P123/F127 block copolymers and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitory potency. Modulation of multidrug resistance (MDR) by Pluronic P123/F127 was evaluated in P-gp over-expressing human breast cancer cell line MCF-7/ADR and its non-P-gp over-expressing counterpart MCF-7 cells. Four different probes (known as P-gp substrates) including rhodamine 123 (R-123), rhodamine 6G (R-6G), doxorubicin (DOX), and paclitaxel (PTX) were applied to investigate the impact of Pluronic P123/F127 copolymers with different concentrations on the intracellular accumulation of these probes. Additionally, the intracellular ATP and mitochondrial transmembrane potential in MCF-7/ADR cells were determined over a wide concentration range of Pluronic P123/F127. Furthermore, the endocytic mechanisms of Pluronic micelles were performed. It was suggested that P-gp substrate hydrophobicity and the concentration of P123/F127 copolymers had little impact on P-gp inhibitory activity of Pluronic P123/F127 itself. Intracellular ATP depletion was the main mechanism of Pluronic P123/F127 for P-gp inhibition. In vitro cytotoxicity study was also conducted in order to compare cytotoxic effect among different PTX formulations. It indicated that the IC50 of PTX-loaded Pluronic P123/F127 mixed micelles was 6.3-fold lower than free PTX and 2.3-fold lower than Taxol, respectively. Therefore, Pluronic P123/F127 polymeric micelles could be considered a promising drug delivery system to overcome MDR in cancer therapy.

Changes in the intestinal absorption mechanism of icariin in the nanocavities of cyclodextrins

Icariin is a bioactive herbal ingredient isolated from Herba epimedii, which has been widely used for the treatment of osteoporosis and male sexual dysfunction in traditional Chinese medicine. The major objective of this work is to investigate the different enhancing effects of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) on the intestinal absorption of icariin, and to identify the molecular mechanisms of this action. Host-guest-type interactions of icariin with cyclodextrins nanocavities were unambiguously demonstrated by the phase-solubility diagram, ultraviolet spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray powder diffractometry, and two dimensional proton nuclear magnetic resonance rotating-frame Overhauser effect spectroscopy. These results were further supported using molecular modeling studies. The rat single-pass intestinal perfusion model showed that the absorption of icariin was affected by P-glycoprotein (Pgp). The icariin/HP-β-CD inclusion complex provided greater enhancement in the intestinal absorption than the icariin/β-CD inclusion complex. Therefore, the enhancing effect was involved in a solubilizing effect and/or Pgp inhibitory effect. Finally, fluorescence anisotropy measurements and Pgp adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) assay demonstrated that β-CD exhibited no effect on Pgp, while HP-β-CD showed inhibition by restraining the Pgp ATPase activity rather than changing the fluidity of cell membrane.

Amphiphilic polymeric micelles as the nanocarrier for peroral delivery of poorly soluble anticancer drugs

INTRODUCTION

Many amphiphilic copolymers have recently been synthesized as novel promising micellar carriers for the delivery of poorly water-soluble anticancer drugs. Studies on the formulation and oral delivery of such micelles have demonstrated their efficacy in enhancing drug uptake and absorption, and exhibit prolonged circulation time in vitro and in vivo.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, literature on hydrophobic modifications of several hydrophilic polymers, including polyethylene glycol, chitosan, hyaluronic acid, pluronic and tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate, is summarized. Parameters influencing the properties of polymeric micelles for oral chemotherapy are discussed and strategies to overcome main barriers for polymeric micelles peroral absorption are proposed.

EXPERT OPINION

During the design of polymeric micelles for peroral chemotherapy, selecting or synthesizing copolymers with good compatibility with the drug is an effective strategy to increase drug loading and encapsulation efficiency. Stability of the micelles can be improved in different ways. It is recommended to take permeability, mucoadhesion, sustained release, and P-glycoprotein inhibition into consideration during copolymer preparation or to consider adding some excipients in the formulation. Furthermore, both the copolymer structure and drug loading methods should be controlled in order to get micelles with appropriate particle size for better absorption.

Uptake and transport of a novel anticancer drug-delivery system: lactosyl-norcantharidin-associated N-trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles across intestinal Caco-2 cell monolayers

In this paper, novel liver-targeting nanoparticles (NPs), lactosyl-norcantharidin (Lac-NCTD)-associated N-trimethyl chitosan (TMC) NPs (Lac-NCTD-TMC-NPs), were prepared using ionic cross-linkage. The physical properties, particle size, and encapsulation efficiency of the nanoparticles were then investigated. The continuous line of heterogeneous human epithelial colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (Caco-2) cell monolayer model was used to study the transport mechanism of Lac-NCTD, and the effects of factors such as time, temperature, pH level, drug concentration, enhancers, and inhibitors. This model was also used to indicate the differences among Lac-NCTD, Lac-NCTD-associated chitosan NPs (Lac-NCTD-CS-NPs), and Lac-NCTD-TMC- NPs in the absorption and transportation of membranes. Drug concentration levels were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Active transport and paracellular transport were suggested to be both the primary and secondary mechanisms for Lac-NCTD absorption, respectively. Lac-NCTD uptake and absorption were not controlled by pH levels, but were positively correlated to uptake time, and negatively correlated to temperature. The basolateral to apical apparent permeability coefficients (Papps) were higher than those of the apical to basolateral values. The inhibitor of P-glycoprotein and the multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 significantly enhanced the uptake amount of Lac-NCTD. Compared with Lac-NCTD, Lac-NCTD-CS-NPs and Lac-NCTD-TMC-NPs significantly enhanced drug absorption. Additionally, the latter exhibited stronger action. Lac-NCTD-NPs could penetrate the plasma membrane of Caco-2 cells and translocate into the cytoplasm and even into the nucleus. Nanoparticles were uptaken into Caco-2 cells through the endocytosis pathway.

Novel norcantharidin-loaded liver targeting chitosan nanoparticles to enhance intestinal absorption

In this paper, two novel liver-targeting nanoparticles, norcantharidin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (NCTD-CS-NPs) and norcantharidin-associated galactosylated chitosan nanoparticles (NCTD-GC-NPs), were prepared using ionic cross-linkage. The physical properties, particle size, encapsulation efficiency, and drug release characteristics of the nanoparticles were investigated in vitro. To investigate the intestinal absorption mechanisms of the two preparations, a series of experiments was carried out, including in situ circulation method, in vitro everted gut sacs, and Ussing chamber perfusion technique. The absorption rate constants (Ka) of NCTD at different segments were found to be duodenum > jejunum > ileum > colon. The concentration had no distinctive effect on absorption kinetics, suggesting that drug absorption is not dose-dependent. The transport of NCTD was found to be inhibited by P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitor, indicating that NCTD might be the substrate of P-gp. The order of the absorption enhancer effects were as follows: low molecular weight chitosan (CS-8kDa) > high molecular weight chitosan (CS-30kDa) > Poloxamer > sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) > sodium deoxycholate (SDCh). The results indicate that the chitosan nanoparticles can improve intestinal absorption of NCTD.

Development of docetaxel-loaded vitamin E TPGS micelles: formulation optimization, effects on brain cancer cells and biodistribution in rats

Aim: This work aimed to develop docetaxel-loaded D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (vitamin E TPGS or TPGS) micelles for brain cancer chemotherapy by taking advantage of polyethylene glycol for its long half-life in circulation and vitamin E for its high cellular uptake. Material & methods: TPGS micelles containing docetaxel or coumarin-6 were prepared by the solvent casting method and the direct dissolution method at high, moderate and low drug-loading levels. Results & discussion: The particle size of the docetaxel-loaded TPGS micelles ranged between 12 and 14 nm. Docetaxel formulated in the TPGS micelles of high, moderate and low drug-loading levels achieved lower IC50 values compared with Taxotere® after 24-h incubation with C6 glioma brain cancer cells. The TPGS has much lower critical micelle concentration than most phospholipids in micellar formulation, which can be an efficient drug carrier across the blood brain–barrier with high drug encapsulation efficiency, cell uptake, cytotoxicity and desired biodistribution of the formulated drug.

Original submitted: 21 March 2011; Revised submitted: 14th June 2011

Poloxamer 407/TPGS mixed micelles for delivery of gambogic acid to breast and multidrug-resistant cancer

Background

Delivery of a high concentration of anticancer drugs specifically to cancer cells remains the biggest challenge for the treatment of multidrug-resistant cancer. Poloxamers and D-α-Tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) are known inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Mixed micelles prepared from Poloxamer 407 and TPGS may increase the therapeutic efficacy of the drug by delivering high concentrations inside the cells and inhibiting P-gp. Gambogic acid (GA) is a naturally derived novel anticancer agent, but poor solubility and toxic side effects limit its use. In this study, we have developed Poloxamer 407 and TPGS mixed micelle-encapsulating GA for the treatment of breast and multidrug-resistant cancer.

Methods

GA-loaded Poloxamer 407/TPGS mixed micelles were prepared using a thin film hydration method, and their physicochemical properties were characterized. Cellular accumulation and cytotoxicity of the GA-loaded Poloxamer 407/TPGS mixed micelles were studied in breast cancer cells, MCF-7 cells, and multidrug-resistant NCI/ADR-RES cells.

Results

The diameter of GA-loaded Poloxamer 407/TPGS mixed micelles was about 17.4 ± 0.5 nm and the zeta potential −13.57 mV. The entrapment efficiency of GA was 93.1% ± 0.5% and drug loading was about 9.38% ± 0.29%. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray powder diffraction studies confirmed that GA is encapsulated by the polymers. The in vitro release studies showed that mixed micelles sustained the release of GA for more than 4 days. Results from cellular uptake studies indicated that GA-loaded Poloxamer 407/TPGS mixed micelles had increased cellular uptake of GA in NCI/ADR-RES cells. Cytotoxicity of GA-loaded Poloxamer 407/TPGS mixed micelles was found to be 2.9 times higher in multidrug-resistant NCI/ADR-RES cells, and 1.6 times higher in MCF-7 cells, as compared with unencapsulated GA.

Conclusion

This study suggests that Poloxamer 407/TPGS mixed micelles can be used as a delivery system for GA to treat breast and multidrug-resistant cancer.

Enhancing effect of hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin on the intestinal absorption process of genipin

The purpose of this work is to investigate the effect of the genipin/hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) inclusion complex on the intestinal absorption of genipin and identify its mechanism of action. The phase solubility profile was classified as A(L) type, indicating the formulation of a 1:1 stoichiometry inclusion complex. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray powder diffractometry, and (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and two-dimensional (2D) (1)H rotating-frame Overhauser enhancement (ROESY) NMR spectroscopies further confirmed the formulation of the inclusion complex with superior dissolution properties than the drug alone. The results of single-pass intestinal perfusion showed that the intestinal absorption of genipin was affected by P-glycoprotein (Pgp). The absorption rate and permeability value of the inclusion complex were significantly higher than the free drug, suggesting that its enhancing effect was involved in its solubilizing effect and Pgp inhibitory effect. The mechanisms of HP-β-CD on Pgp inhibition were demonstrated by restraining the Pgp ATPase activity rather than changing the fluidity of the cell membrane.

Vitamin E TPGS coated liposomes enhanced cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of docetaxel in brain cancer cells

The aim of this work was to develop a drug delivery system of liposomes, which are coated with D-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS), a PEGylated vitamin E, with docetaxel as a model drug for enhanced treatment of brain tumour in comparison with the nude liposomes as well as with the so-called stealth liposomes, i.e. those coated with polyethylene glycol (PEG), which have been intensive investigated in the literature. Docetaxel or coumarin-6 loaded liposomes were prepared by the solvent injection method and characterized for their particle size, polydispersity, zeta potential and drug encapsulation efficiency. C6 glioma cells were employed as an in vitro model to access cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of the drug or coumarin-6 loaded liposomes. The particle size of the PEG or TPGS coated liposomes was ranged between 126 and 191nm. High-resolution field-emission transmission electron microscopy (FETEM) confirmed the coating of TPGS on the liposomes. The IC50 value, which is the drug concentration needed to kill 50% cells in a designated time period, was found to be 37.04±1.05, 31.04±0.75, 7.70±0.22, and 5.93±0.57μg/ml for the commercial Taxotere(®), the nude, PEG coated and TPGS coated liposomes, respectively after 24h culture with C6 glioma cells. The TPGS coated liposomes showed great advantages in vitro than the PEG coated liposomes.

Discovering natural product modulators to overcome multidrug resistance in cancer chemotherapy

Multidrug resistance caused by the overexpression of ABC drug transporters is a major obstacle in clinical cancer chemotherapy. For several years, it appeared that direct inhibition of ABC transporters would be the cheapest and most efficient way to combat this problem. Unfortunately, progress in finding a potent, selective inhibitor to modulate ABC transporters and restore drug sensitivity in multidrug-resistant cancer cells has been slow and challenging. Candidate drugs should ideally be selective, potent and relatively non-toxic. Many researchers in recent years have turned their attention to utilizing natural products as the building blocks for the development of the next generation of inhibitors, especially after the disappointing results obtained from inhibitors of the first three generations at the clinical trial stage. The first step is to discover natural substances (distinct from the first three generation inhibitors) that are potent, selective and relatively non-toxic in order to be used clinically. Here, we present a brief overview of the prospect of using natural products to modulate the function of ABC drug transporters clinically and their impact on human physiology and pharmacology.

Evaluation of protein stability and in vitro permeation of lyophilized polysaccharides-based microparticles for intranasal protein delivery

Biocompatible microparticles prepared by lyophilization were developed for intranasal protein delivery. To test for the feasibility of this formulation, stability of the incorporated protein and enhancement of in vitro permeation across the nasal epithelium were evaluated. Lyophilization was processed with hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) or water soluble chitosan (WCS) as biocompatible polymers, hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) and d-alpha-tocopheryl poly(ethylene glycol 1000) succinate (TPGS 1000) as permeation enhancers, sugars as cryoprotectants and lysozyme as the model protein. As a result, microparticles ranging from 6 to 12μm were developed where the maintenance of the protein conformation was verified by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), circular dichroism and fluorescence intensity detection. Moreover, in vitro bioassay showed that the lysozyme activity was preserved during the preparation process while exhibiting less cytotoxicity in primary human nasal epithelial (HNE) cells. Results of the in vitro release study revealed slower release rate in these microparticles compared to that of the lysozyme itself. On the other hand, the in vitro permeation study exhibited a 9-fold increase in absorption of lysozyme when prepared in lyophilized microparticles with HPMC, HP-β-CD and TPGS 1000 (F4-2). These microparticles could serve as efficient intranasal delivery systems for therapeutic proteins.

The mechanism of enhancement on oral absorption of paclitaxel by N-octyl-O-sulfate chitosan micelles

The overall objective of the present investigation was to demonstrate the effect of N-octyl-O-sulfate chitosan (NOSC) micelles on enhancing the oral absorption of paclitaxel (PTX) in vivo and in vitro, and identify the mechanism of this action of NOSC. In vivo, the oral bioavailability of PTX loaded in NOSC micelles (PTX-M) was 6-fold improved in comparison with that of an orally dosed Taxol(®). In the Caco-2 uptake studies, NOSC micelles brought about a significantly higher amount of PTX accumulated in Caco-2 cells via both clathrin- and caveolae-mediated endocytosis, and NOSC had the effect on inhibiting PTX secreted by P-glycoprotein (P-gp), which was also proved by the studies on rhodamine 123 incorporated in NOSC micelles, fluorescence labeled micelles. The mechanism of NOSC on P-gp inhibition was demonstrated in connection with interfering the P-gp ATPase by NOSC rather than reducing the P-gp expression. Moreover, NOSC with the concentration approaching the critical micellar concentration (CMC) had the strongest effect on P-gp inhibition. In the Caco-2 transport studies, the presence of verapamil and NOSC both improved the transport of Taxol(®), which further certified the effect of NOSC on P-gp inhibition, and PTX-M enhanced the permeability of PTX compared with Taxol(®). The apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) of PTX-M decreased significantly at 4 °C in comparison with at 37 °C, which indicated a predominant active endocytic mechanism for the transport of PTX-M, a P-gp-independent way. Furthermore, the transcytosis of PTX-M was via clathrin-mediated rather than caveolae-mediated. In addition, the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) of Caco-2 cell monolayers had no significant change during the transport study, which pointed out that NOSC had no effect on opening the intercellular tight junctions. Based on the obtained results, it is suggested that NOSC micelles might be a potentially applicable tool for enhancing the oral absorption of P-gp substrates.