Nanosuspensions: a promising drug delivery strategy

Preparation of Vitexin Nanoparticles by Combining the Antisolvent Precipitation and High Pressure Homogenization Approaches Followed by Lyophilization for Dissolution Rate Enhancement

Vitexin, a natural flavonoid found in many medicinal plants, is well known for its rich pharmacological activities. However, the poor water solubility of vitexin has limited its therapeutic application. The aim of this study was to prepare the nanoparticles of vitexin by combining the antisolvent precipitation (ASP) and high pressure homogenization (HPH) approaches followed by lyophilization for improving the dissolution rate of this poorly water-soluble drug. The effects of main factors influencing the mean particle size (MPS) of vitexin were investigated and optimized. Under optimum conditions, vitexin nanosuspensions with an MPS of 80.5 nm were obtained and then lyophilized to form nanoparticles. The obtained vitexin nanoparticles were further characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), mass spectrometry (MS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), gas chromatography (GC) and dissolution testing. The results showed that the nanoparticles of vitexin were converted into an amorphous form, with its chemical structure unchanged. Additionally, the residual dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is lower than the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) limit for class 3 solvents. The dissolution rate of processed vitexin was significantly higher (5.58-fold) than that of raw drug. Overall, the combinative process we developed is an effective way to produce vitexin nanoparticles with markedly enhanced dissolution rate.

Creating nanoscale emulsions using condensation

Nanoscale emulsions are essential components in numerous products, ranging from processed foods to novel drug delivery systems. Existing emulsification methods rely either on the breakup of larger droplets or solvent exchange/inversion. Here we report a simple, scalable method of creating nanoscale water-in-oil emulsions by condensing water vapor onto a subcooled oil-surfactant solution. Our technique enables a bottom-up approach to forming small-scale emulsions. Nanoscale water droplets nucleate at the oil/air interface and spontaneously disperse within the oil, due to the spreading dynamics of oil on water. Oil-soluble surfactants stabilize the resulting emulsions. We find that the oil-surfactant concentration controls the spreading behavior of oil on water, as well as the peak size, polydispersity, and stability of the resulting emulsions. Using condensation, we form emulsions with peak radii around 100 nm and polydispersities around 10%. This emulsion formation technique may open different routes to creating emulsions, colloidal systems, and emulsion-based materials.

Emulsions—stabilized mixtures of immiscible liquids—are found in many products, ranging from pharmaceuticals to food. Here Guha et al. propose a simple emulsification method where water vapor is condensed onto oil with surfactant, producing a water-in-oil emulsion with droplets as small as 100 nm.

High drug payload curcumin nanosuspensions stabilized by mPEG-DSPE and SPC: in vitro and in vivo evaluation

CONTEXT

Curcumin (CUR) is a promising drug candidate based on its broad bioactivities and good antitumor effect, but the application of CUR is potentially restricted because of its poor solubility and bioavailability.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims at developing a simple and effective drug delivery system for CUR to enhance its solubility and bioavailability thus to improve its antitumor efficacy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Curcumin nanosuspensions (CUR-NSps) were prepared by precipitation-ultrasonication method using mPEG2000-DSPE and soybean lecithin as a combined stabilizer.

RESULTS

CUR-NSps with a high drug payload of 67.07% were successfully prepared. The resultant CUR-NSps had a mean particle size of 186.33 ± 2.73 nm with a zeta potential of -19.00 ± 1.31 mV. In vitro cytotoxicity assay showed that CUR-NSps exhibited enhanced cytotoxicity compared to CUR solution. The pharmacokinetics results demonstrated that CUR-NSps exhibited a significantly greater AUC0-24 and prolonged MRT compared to CUR injections after intravenous administration. In the biodistribution study, CUR-NSps demonstrated enhanced biodistribution compared with CUR injections in liver, spleen, kidney, brain, and tumor. The CUR-NSps also showed improved antitumor therapeutic efficacy over the injections (70.34% versus 40.03%, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that CUR-NSps might represent a promising drug formulation for intravenous administration of CUR for the treatment of cancer.

Formulation and Evaluation of Naringenin Nanosuspensions for Bioavailability Enhancement

The clinical potential of naringenin (NRG) is compromised due to its poor aqueous solubility and low oral bioavailability. The study is aimed at addressing these issues by means of naringenin nanosuspensions (NRG-NS) formulated using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP K-90) as stabiliser via antisolvent sonoprecipitation method. Optimisation of sonication time, drug concentration and stabilisers was done based on particle size. Characterisation of pure NRG and NRG-NS was carried out by scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), x-ray powder diffractometry (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In vitro dissolution, intestinal absorption by non-everted rat intestinal sac model and in situ single pass intestinal perfusion techniques were performed for further investigation. Nanosuspensions prepared using PVP K-90 lead to minimum particle size (117 ± 5 nm) with zeta potential of -14.6 ± 5.6 mV. The particle size was affected by increasing sonication time, concentration of stabiliser and drug. Nanosizing process converted the crystalline drug into amorphous form as predicted from DSC and XRD patterns. FTIR demonstrated the formation of hydrogen bonds between drug and polymer. NRG-NS displayed a higher dissolution amount (91 ± 4.4% during 60 min) compared to NRG powder (42 ± 0.41%). The apparent and effective permeability of NRG-NS was increased as compared to the pure NRG. The in vivo pharmacokinetics demonstrated that the C _max and AUC_0-24 h values of NRG-NS were approximately 2- and 1.8-fold superior than the pure drug. Hence, overall results confirmed nanosuspensions as promising approach for NRG delivery with high absorption in gastrointestinal tract, improved dissolution and oral bioavailability.

Hydroxycinnamic acids loaded in lipid-core nanocapsules

Ferulic, caffeic, sinapic, and coumaric acids, belonging to the class of hydroxycinnamic acids (HAs), are bioactive polyphenols widespread in the plant kingdom and present in the human diet. Due to their biological properties and effects in the prevention of various diseases associated with oxidative stress, HAs can be exploited for attractive nutraceutical applications. Starting from this and in order to increase bioaccessibility, we encapsulated HAs in lipid-core nanocapsules (NCs) based on a biodegradable and biocompatible poly(ε-caprolactone) polymer. The results showed that nanoparticles loaded with hydroxycinnamic acids (HA-NCs) have diameter of 224-253 nm, encapsulation efficiency of 53-78%, and are stable over time (30 days). In vitro tests evidenced that NCs are able to preserve HAs in the gastric simulated fluid and release them in the intestinal simulated fluid. The delivery system developed could be employed to create novel functional foods.

Development and evaluation of camptothecin loaded polymer stabilized nanoemulsion: Targeting potential in 4T1-breast tumour xenograft model

Targeted delivery of anticancer agents is poised to improve cancer therapy, for which polymers can serve as targeting ligands or nanocarriers for chemotherapeutic agents. In this study, we have developed and evaluated the efficacy of a camptothecin (CPT)-loaded polymer stabilized nanoemulsion (PSNE) for the passive targeted delivery to breast cancer. Based on the pseudo-ternary phase diagrams, PSNEs were developed using capmul MCM:poloxamer 407 (4:1), solutol HS 15:simulsol P23 (1:2) and water. CPT polymer mixture was developed by solvent evaporation technique. The PSNEs were characterized for droplet size distribution, plasma protein adsorption, drug release, in-vivo targeting potential, hemolytic potential, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, in-vivo biodistribution and CPT lactone ring stability. The developed PSNEs showed uniform droplet distribution, extended drug release (76.59±6.12% at 24h), acceptable hemolytic potential, significant cytotoxicity (IC₅₀=176±4.3ng/mL) and genotoxicity against MCF-7 cancer cells but low DNA damage potential in human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The efficiency of PSNEs for the targeted delivery of CPT into the tumour regions was documented in 4T1-breast tumour xenografted BALB/c mice. In-vivo biodistribution study shows that 7105.84±568.46ng/g of CPT was passively targeted from PSNE to breast cancer tissue. About 80% of the lactone form was stable for 24h. Taken together, our study provides a promising strategy for developing PSNE-targeted drug delivery system for the breast cancer therapy.

Influence of Drug Brittleness, Nanomilling Time, and Freeze-Drying on the Crystallinity of Poorly Water-Soluble Drugs and Its Implications for Solubility Enhancement

The aim of this study was to assess whether wet bead milling of dexamethasone and tacrolimus suspensions leads to a lower degree of crystallinity of nanocrystals, and if the degree of crystallinity affects the drug solubility, in addition to particle size. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to determine the degree of crystallinity of the particles, which decreased during milling until reaching a plateau: the particles had ∼79% degree of crystallinity after 5 h milling. Different milling times were required for the two drugs in order to reach their plateaux, 2 h for dexamethasone and 3 h for tacrolimus. These results could be explained with the brittleness of the drugs. Dexamethasone was more brittle than tacrolimus, with an apparent elastic modulus of 16 GPa compared to ∼12 GPa of tacrolimus. Freeze-drying the nanosuspensions resulted in a reduction in the degree of crystallinity to ∼35% for dexamethasone and to ∼45% for tacrolimus in comparison to non-freeze-dried particles. Solubility studies were performed with a Sirius® inForm based on in situ UV/VIS spectroscopy. The reduced degree of crystallinity of nanocrystals after milling was responsible, in addition to the nanoparticle size, for the solubility increase. Indeed, while the smallest particle size (394 nm for dexamethasone and 240 nm for tacrolimus) did not always result in the highest increase in solubility (factor of 1.04 for dexamethasone and 1.3 with tacrolimus), the smallest degree of crystallinity was always characteristic of the maximum solubility obtained (factor of 1.15 for dexamethasone and 1.7 for tacrolimus).

Association between the physical stability of flurbiprofen suspension and the interaction of HPMC/SDS

The anionic surfactant sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) has improved the physical stability of flurbiprofen (FBP) suspension, which was suspended by 0.2% (w/v) hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC, K4M). Therefore, the physical stability of FBP suspensions and the interaction of HPMC/SDS were studied, and a certain association between them was revealed. The anti-solvent precipitation method was used to prepare suspensions. The apparent drug concentration from different sites was evaluated to get the dispersion of drug actually. The process of flocculation and deflocculation with the addition of SDS was caught by analyzing the morphology of the suspended particles. The physical stability of the FBP suspensions was characterized mainly by measuring the re-dispersion time, the zeta potential and particle size. Meanwhile, conductivity measurements were carried out to obtain the characteristic concentrations of SDS in HPMC/SDS system. The viscosities, the abilities for improving the solubility and wettability of FBP in the separate and mixed HPMC/SDS solutions were also contrasted respectively. The suspensions prepared with HPMC/SDS possessed better physical stability. The suspensions were uniform when the concentration of SDS was between the critical adsorption concentration (CAC) and the polymer saturation point (PSP). After PSP, the uniformity became worse and worse until the SDS was enough to form a deflocculation state. Besides, the re-dispersion time of FBP suspensions was longest when the concentration of SDS around CAC and shorter by shorter after the critical micelle concentration (CMC). The article provided a new sight on the relation between the interaction of excipient matrix and pharmaceutical preparations.

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of SN-38 nanocrystals with different particle sizes

7-Ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN-38) is a potent broad-spectrum antitumor drug derived from irinotecan hydrochloride (CPT-11). Due to its poor solubility and instability of the active lactone ring, its clinical use is significantly limited. As one of the most promising formulations for poorly water-soluble drugs, nanocrystals have attracted increasing attention. In order to solve these problems and evaluate the antitumor effect of SN-38 in vitro and in vivo, two nanocrystals with markedly different particle sizes were prepared. Dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy were used to investigate the two nanocrystals. The particle sizes of SN-38 nanocrystals A (SN-38/NCs-A) and SN-38 nanocrystals B (SN-38/NCs-B) were 229.5±1.99 and 799.2±14.44 nm, respectively. X-ray powder diffraction analysis showed that the crystalline state of SN-38 did not change in the size reduction process. An accelerated dissolution velocity of SN-38 was achieved by nanocrystals, and release rate of SN-38/NCs-A was significantly faster than that of SN-38/NCs-B. Cellular uptake, cellular cytotoxicity, pharmacokinetics, animal antitumor efficacy, and tissue distribution were subsequently examined. As a result, enhanced intracellular accumulation in HT1080 cells and cytotoxicity on different tumor cells were observed for SN-38/NCs-A compared to that for SN-38/NCs-B and solution. Besides, compared to the SN-38 solution, SN-38/NCs-A had a higher bioavailability after intravenous injection; while the bioavailability of SN-38/NCs-B was even lower than that of the SN-38 solution. SN-38/NCs-A exhibited a significant inhibition of tumor growth compared to SN-38 solution and SN-38/NCs-B in vivo. The antitumor effect of SN-38/NCs-B was stronger than SN-38 solution. The tissue distribution study in tumor-bearing mice showed that nanocrystals could markedly improve the drug accumulation in tumor tissue by the enhanced permeability and retention effect compared to SN-38 solution, and the amount of SN-38 in tumors of SN-38/NCs-A group was much more than that of SN-38/NCs-B group. In conclusion, nanocrystals dramatically enhanced the anticancer efficacy of SN-38 in vitro and in vivo, and the particle size had a significant influence on the dissolution behavior, pharmacokinetic properties, and tumor inhibition of nanocrystals.

A top-down technique to improve the solubility and bioavailability of aceclofenac: in vitro and in vivo studies

The aim of the present work was to tackle the solubility issue of a biopharmaceutics classification system (BCS)-II drug, aceclofenac. Although a number of attempts to increase the aqueous solubility have been made, none of the methods were taken up for scale-up. Hence size reduction technique by a top-down approach using wet milling process was utilized to improve the solubility and, consequently, the dissolution velocity of aceclofenac. The quality of the final product was ensured by Quality by Design approach wherein the effects of critical material attributes and critical process parameters were assessed on the critical quality attributes (CQAs) of nanocrystals. Box–Behnken design was applied to evaluate these effects on critical quality attributes. The optimized nanocrystals had a particle size of 484.7±54.12 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.108±0.009. The solid state characterization of the formulation revealed that the crystalline nature of the drug was slightly reduced after the milling process. With the reduced particle size, the solubility of the nanocrystals was found to increase in both water and 0.1 N HCl when compared with that of unmilled pure aceclofenac. These results were further supported by in vitro release studies of nanocrystals where an appreciable dissolution velocity with 100.07%±2.38% release was observed for aceclofenac nanocrystals compared with 47.66%±4.53% release for pure unmilled aceclofenac at the end of 2 h. The in vivo pharmacokinetic data generated showed a statistically significant increase in the C_max for aceclofenac nanocrystals of 3.75±0.28 µg/mL (for pure unmilled aceclofenac C_max was 1.96±0.17 µg/mL). The results obtained indicated that the developed nanocrystals of aceclofenac were successful in improving the solubility, thus the absorption and bioavailability of the drug. Hence, it may be a viable and cost-effective alternative to the current therapy.

Design of PEG-grafted-PLA nanoparticles as oral permeability enhancer for P-gp substrate drug model Famotidine

Bioavailability of oral drugs can be limited by an intestinal excretion process mediated by P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a known P-gp inhibitor. Dispersion of Famotidine (a P-gp substrate) within PEGylated nanoparticles (NPs) was used to improve its oral bioavailability. In this work, we evaluated the potential impact of NPs prepared from a grafted copolymer of polylactic acid and PEG on P-gp function by studying in vitro permeability of Famotidine across Caco-2 cells. Copolymers of PEG grafted on polylactic acid (PLA) backbone (PLA-g-PEG) were synthesised with 1 mol% and 5 mol% PEG vs. lactic acid monomer using PEG 750 and 2000 Da. The polymers were used to prepare Famotidine-loaded NPs and tested in vitro on Caco-2 cells. Significant decrease in basolateral-to-apical transport of Famotidine was observed when Famotidine was encapsulated in NPs prepared from PLA-g-PEG5%. NPs prepared from PLA-g-PEG5% are promising to improve oral bioavailability of P-gp substrates.

Novel strategies for the formulation and processing of poorly water-soluble drugs

Low aqueous solubility of active pharmaceutical ingredients presents a serious challenge in the development process of new drug products. This article provides an overview on some of the current approaches for the formulation of poorly water-soluble drugs with a special focus on strategies pursued at the Center of Pharmaceutical Engineering of the TU Braunschweig. These comprise formulation in lipid-based colloidal drug delivery systems and experimental as well as computational approaches towards the efficient identification of the most suitable carrier systems. For less lipophilic substances the preparation of drug nanoparticles by milling and precipitation is investigated for instance by means of microsystem-based manufacturing techniques and with special regard to the preparation of individualized dosage forms. Another option to overcome issues with poor drug solubility is the incorporation into nanospun fibers.

10-Hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) nanosuspensions stabilized by mPEG1000-HCPT conjugate: high stabilizing efficiency and improved antitumor efficacy

In this study, polyethylene glycol (PEG)ylated 10-hydroxycamptothecin (mPEG₁₀₀₀-HCPT) was synthesized and used as a stabilizer to prepare 10-hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) nanosuspensions for their in vitro and in vivo antitumor investigation. The resultant HCPT nanosuspensions (HCPT-NSps) had a very high drug payload of 94.90% (w/w) and a mean particle size of 92.90±0.20 nm with narrow size distribution (polydispersity index of 0.16±0.01). HCPT-NSps could be lyophilized without the need of the addition of any cryoprotectant and then be reconstituted into nanosuspensions of a similar size by direct resuspension in water. HCPT was in crystalline form in HCPT-NSps. Using mPEG₁₀₀₀-HCPT as stabilizer, insoluble camptothecin and 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin could also be easily made into nanosuspensions with similar features such as high drug payload, small particle size, and cryoprotectant-free freeze drying. The 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay indicated that the HCPT-NSps had a significantly higher cytotoxicity than HCPT injections, with 3.77 times lower IC₅₀ value against HepG2 cells and 14.1 times lower IC₅₀ value against MCF-7 cells. An in vivo study in H22 tumor-bearing mice after intravenous injection of HCPT-NSps demonstrated that HCPT-NSps significantly improved the antitumor efficacy compared to the commercially available HCPT injections (86.38% vs 34.97%) at the same dose of 5 mg/kg. Even at 1/4 of the dose, HCPT-NSps could also achieve a similar antitumor efficacy to that of HCPT injections. mPEG₁₀₀₀-HCPT may be a highly efficient stabilizer able to provide camptothecin-based drugs, and probably other antitumor agents containing aromatic structure, with unique nanosuspensions or nanocrystals for improved in vivo therapeutic efficacy.

Development of olmesartan medoxomil optimized nanosuspension using the Box-Behnken design to improve oral bioavailability

The aim of the present investigation was to enhance the oral bioavailability of olmesartan medoxomil by improving its solubility and dissolution rate by preparing nanosuspension (OM-NS), using the Box-Behnken design. In this, four factors were evaluated at three levels. Independent variables include: concentration of drug (X₁), concentration of surfactant (X₂), concentration of polymer (X₃) and number of homogenization cycles (X₄). Based on preliminary studies, the size (Y₁), zeta potential (ZP) (Y₂) and % drug release at 5 min (Y₃) were chosen as dependent responses. OM-NS was prepared by high pressure homogenization method. The size, PDI, ZP, assay, in vitro release and morphology of OM-NS were characterized. Further, the pharmacokinetic (PK) behavior of OM-NS was evaluated in male wistar rats. Statistically optimized OM-NS formulation exhibited mean particle size of 492 nm, ZP of -27.9 mV and 99.29% release in 5 min. OM-NS showed more than four times increase in its solubility than pure OM. DSC and XRD analyses indicated that the drug incorporated into OM-NS was in amorphous form. The morphology of OM-NS was found to be nearly spherical with high dispersity by scanning electron microscopic studies. The PK results showed that OM lyophilized nanosuspension (NS) exhibited improved PK properties compared to coarse powder suspension and marketed tablet powder suspension (TS). Oral bioavailability of lyophilized NS was increased by 2.45 and 2.25 folds when compared to marketed TS and coarse powder suspension, respectively. Results of this study lead to conclusion that NS approach was effective in preparing OM formulations with enhanced dissolution and improved oral bioavailability.

"Fusion and binding inhibition" key target for HIV-1 treatment and pre-exposure prophylaxis: targets, drug delivery and nanotechnology approaches

More than 35 million people are living with HIV worldwide with approximately 2.3 million new infections per year. Cascade of events (cell entry, virus replication, assembly and release of newly formed virions) is involved in the HIV-1 transmission process. Every single step offers a potential therapeutic strategy to halt this progression and HIV fusion into the human host cell is one such stage. Controlling the initial event of HIV-1 transmission is the best way to control its dissemination especially when prophylaxis is concerned. Action is required either on the HIV’s or host’s cell surface which is logically more rational when compared with other intracellular acting moieties. Aim of this manuscript is to detail the significance and current strategies to halt this initial step, thus blocking the entry of HIV-1 for further infection. Both HIV-1 and the possible host cell’s receptors/co-receptors are under focus while specifying the targets available for inhibiting this fusion. Current and under investigation moieties are categorized based on their versatile mechanisms. Advanced drug delivery and nanotechnology approaches present a key tool to exploit the therapeutic potential in a boosted way. Current drug delivery and the impact of nanotechnology in potentiating this strategy are detailed.

Development of olmesartan medoxomil lipid-based nanoparticles and nanosuspension: preparation, characterization and comparative pharmacokinetic evaluation

The aim was to enhance the oral bioavailability of olmesartan medoxomil (OM) by preparing solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and comparing with nanosuspension (OM-NS). OM-SLNs and OM-NS were prepared by known methods. Prepared SLNs were evaluated for physical characters and in vivo pharmacokinetic (PK) performance in rats. OM-NS showed more than four-fold increase in the solubility. During DSC and XRD studies, drug incorporated in SLNs was found to be in amorphous form. The relative bioavailability of OM-SLN and OM-NS was 7.21- and 3.52-fold when compared with that of coarse suspension. Further, OM-SLNs also increased the oral bioavailability by two-fold over that of OM-NS.

Candesartan cilexetil loaded nanodelivery systems for improved oral bioavailability

Candesartan cilexetil (CC), an antihypertensive drug, has low oral bioavailability due to poor solubility and hepatic first-pass metabolism. These are major limitations in oral delivery of CC. Several approaches are known to reduce the problems of solubility and improve the bioavailability of CC. Among various approaches, nanotechnology-based delivery of CC has potential to overcome the challenges associated with the oral administration. This review focuses on various nano-based delivery systems available and tried for improving the aqueous solubility, dissolution and consequently bioavailability of CC upon oral administration. Of all, solid lipid nanoparticles appear to be promising delivery system, based on current reported results, for delivery of CC, as this system improved the oral bioavailability and possessed prolonged pharmacodynamic effect.

Poly(lactic acid) nanoparticles loaded with ursolic acid: Characterization and in vitro evaluation of radical scavenging activity and cytotoxicity

The purpose of this study was to develop poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nanoparticles containing ursolic acid (UA) by an emulsification-solvent evaporation technique and evaluate the radical scavenging activity over hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and cytotoxicity over erythrocytes and tumor cells. Nanoparticles were successfully obtained and presented mean size of 246nm with spherical or slightly oval morphology, negative zeta potential and 96% of UA encapsulation efficiency. Analyses of FTIR, XRD and DSC-DTG suggest interaction/complexation of UA with PLA matrix and drug amorphization promoted by nanoencapsulation process. Stability study showed that room temperature was the best condition for nanoparticles storage. The in vitro release study showed UA was released from the polymeric matrix over two constants (α, β), suggesting a second order kinetics. After 120h of assay, 60% of UA were released by diffusion. In the HOCl scavenging activity, after 72h of assay UA-loaded nanoparticles presented the same efficacy of free drug. In cytotoxicity test over red blood cells, UA-loaded nanoparticles showed less toxicity on cells than free drug. The cytotoxicity assay over melanoma cells line (B16-F10) showed after 72h that nanoparticles were able to reduce the cell viability in 70%. PLA nanoparticles showed be potential carriers for UA maintaining the antioxidant and antitumor activity of the UA and decreasing its cytotoxicity over normal cells.

Nanosuspensions in Nanobiomedicine

The tremendous success in developing new nanomaterials and fostering technological innovation arises from the focus on interdisciplinary research and collaboration between physical and medical scientists. The concept of nano-medicine is one of the most important and exciting ideas ever generated by the applications of nanoscience. One of the most challenging tasks in the pharmaceutical industry is the formulation of poorly soluble drugs. The implication of conventional techniques for improving the solubility has gained limited success. Nanoparticles facilitate formulation with improved solubility and efficacy mainly through nanosuspension approach. Techniques such as media milling, high-pressure homogenization, and use of microemulsion have been used for production of nanosuspensions for a novel delivery system. Moreover, they are manoeuvred to patient-acceptable dosage forms like tablets, capsules, and lyophilized powder products. Nanosuspension technology has also been studied for active and passive targeted drug delivery systems, which the chapter highlights on various formulational perspectives and applications as a biomedicine delivery system.

Biocompatible Polyion Complex Micelles Synthesized from Arborescent Polymers

Water-dispersible polyion complex (PIC) micelles were prepared by the self-assembly of an arborescent polystyrene-graft-poly(2-vinylpyridine) copolymer (denoted G0PS-g-P2VP or G1) serving as core and a poly(acrylic acid)-block-poly(2-hydroxyethyl acrylate) (PAA-b-PHEA) double-hydrophilic block copolymer (DHBC) forming a shell. Varying the density of hydrophilic polymer chains in the stabilizing layer provided control over the size and structure of the entities obtained, from large flocculated species to stable isolated PIC micelles with diameters ranging from 42 to 67 nm. The hydrodynamic radius (determined from dynamic light scattering measurements), and the weight-average molar mass (M̅_w) and radius of gyration of the scatterers (extracted from static multiangle light scattering data) evidenced the formation of either isolated or aggregated PIC micelles depending on the self-assembly conditions used (pH, concentration and mixing molar ratio f). Changes in the morphology of the arborescent copolymer after complexation were observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging. In particular, by varying the force applied with the AFM tip on the samples, the core-shell structure of the PIC micelles was clearly evidenced. The PIC micelles displayed no significant cytotoxicity toward mouse fibroblast L929 cells, a standard cell line recommended for toxicity assays, due to the good biocompatibility of the hydrophilic PAA-b-PHEA shell. In spite of a negative residual zeta potential due to an excess of negative charges, fluorescently labeled PIC* micelles were successfully internalized by L929 cells, as confirmed by laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

Encapsulating darunavir nanocrystals within Eudragit L100 using coaxial electrospraying

Electrospraying is renowned for its simplicity and versatility, and which can effectively produce particles with well-controlled size, size distribution, particle shape, morphology and microstructure at the nano/microscale. In this study, coaxial electrospraying was used to investigate its feasibility for preparing nanoparticles made up of nanocrystals encapsulated within a polymer shell. Firstly, aqueous nanosuspensions of darunavir were prepared by wet media milling. Then the nanosuspension and solutions of an enteric polymer, Eudragit L100, were used as the inner/core liquid and outer/shell liquid in a coaxial electrospraying setup, respectively. As long as a sufficiently high voltage was applied, a stable Taylor cone-jet mode was obtained to produce very fine core-shell structure nanoparticles with high darunavir encapsulation efficiency of approximately 90%. The influence of the starting nanosuspension and the flow rates on the characteristics of the final electrosprayed particles was also evaluated. Using an optimized nanosuspension with reasonable size, size distribution and flow rates, the enteric coating layer reduced the percentage of DRV release in acidic medium in the in vitro dissolution test to ca. 20%. This study indicates that coaxial electrospraying is a potential and unique technique for encapsulating drug nanocrystals within a polymeric shell.

The Roles of Vitrification of Stabilizers/Matrix Formers for the Redispersibility of Drug Nanocrystals After Solidification: a Case Study

To elucidate the roles of vitrification of stabilizers/matrix formers for the redispersibility of drug nanocrystal powder after solidification at storage stress, the influence of different drying methods and storage stresses on stability of drug nanocrystals was systemically investigated. A poorly soluble drug, baicalin, used as model drug was converted into baicalin nanocrystals (BCN-NC). The residual moisture contents of BCN-NC were applied at two different stress conditions defined as "conservative" (<1%) and "aggressive" (>1%), respectively. The influence of different stabilizers, matrix formers, and storage stresses on the redispersibility of BCN-NC powder was systemically investigated, respectively. The results showed that storage stresses had significantly influence the redispersibility of BCN-NC. Aggressive storage temperature and residual moisture could be unfavorable factors for stability of drug nanocrystals, due to the exacerbation of aggregation of BCN-NC induced by vitrification. It was demonstrated that vitrification of spray-dried BCN-NC was dependent on temperature and time. The polymeric stabilizers hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) and sodium carboxymethyl starch (CMS-Na) with high glass transition temperature (T _g) played more important role in protecting the BCN-NC from breakage during storage, compared to the surfactants Tween 80, D-α-tocopherol acid polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS), or RH 40. Besides, the polyvinylpyrrolidone K30 (PVP K30) and lactose with high T _g were effective matrix formers for preserving the redispersibility of BCN-NC. It was concluded that the vitrification transition of stabilizers/matrix formers could be responsible for aggregation of drug nanocrystals during storage, which was a time-dependent process. The suitable residual moisture contents (RMC) and T _g were very important for preserving the stability of drug nanocrystals during storage.

Smart nanocrystals of artemether: fabrication, characterization, and comparative in vitro and in vivo antimalarial evaluation

Artemether (ARTM) is a very effective antimalarial drug with poor solubility and consequently low bioavailability. Smart nanocrystals of ARTM with particle size of 161±1.5 nm and polydispersity index of 0.172±0.01 were produced in <1 hour using a wet milling technology, Dena^® DM-100. The crystallinity of the processed ARTM was confirmed using differential scanning calorimetry and powder X-ray diffraction. The saturation solubility of the ARTM nanocrystals was substantially increased to 900 µg/mL compared to the raw ARTM in water (145.0±2.3 µg/mL) and stabilizer solution (300.0±2.0 µg/mL). The physical stability studies conducted for 90 days demonstrated that nanocrystals stored at 2°C-8°C and 25°C were very stable compared to the samples stored at 40°C. The nanocrystals were also shown to be stable when processed at acidic pH (2.0). The solubility and dissolution rate of ARTM nanocrystals were significantly increased (P<0.05) compared to those of its bulk powder form. The results of in vitro studies showed significant antimalarial effect (P<0.05) against Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. The IC₅₀ (median lethal oral dose) value of ARTM nanocrystals was 28- and 54-fold lower than the IC₅₀ value of unprocessed drug and 13- and 21-fold lower than the IC₅₀ value of the marketed tablets, respectively. In addition, ARTM nanocrystals at the same dose (2 mg/kg) showed significantly (P<0.05) higher reduction in percent parasitemia (89%) against P. vivax compared to the unprocessed (27%), marketed tablets (45%), and microsuspension (60%). The acute toxicity study demonstrated that the LD₅₀ value of ARTM nanocrystals is between 1,500 mg/kg and 2,000 mg/kg when given orally. This study demonstrated that the wet milling technology (Dena^® DM-100) can produce smart nanocrystals of ARTM with enhanced antimalarial activities.

Optimization, characterization and in vitro/vivo evaluation of azilsartan nanocrystals

Azilsartan (AZL), a poorly soluble drug, was considered to be fit for nanocrystals to improve its solubility. Our study intended to prepare AZL nanocrystals by means of bead milling method. Eight stabilizers or their binary combination and the milling time were set to be variable factors to optimize AZL nanosuspension formulation, and six types of freeze-drying supports were investigated to reduce the aggregation of particles during the solidification. AZL nanocrystals with or without sodium deoxycholate (NaDC) as combined stabilizer with Poloxamer 188 (F68) were prepared owning mean particle sizes of about 300 nm and 460 nm. During the screening processes, the formulation containing NaDC showed a smaller particle size and better stability during lyophilization. The irregular shape and crystal form changing in AZL nanocrystals were discovered by various characterizations. And with physical mixture as reference, nanocrystals showed its improvement about in-vitro dissolution and in-vivo bioavailability. In conclusion, the nanocrystals of AZL could be prepared well in our study. Additionally, our results suggested that NaDC was an appreciated excipient on the nanocrystals platform, which can exhibit the abilities of size-reduction and stability-maintaining on freeze-drying.

Synthesis of three-arm block copolymer poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-poly(ethylene glycol) with oxalyl chloride and its application in hydrophobic drug delivery

PURPOSE

Synthesis of star-shaped block copolymer with oxalyl chloride and preparation of micelles to assess the prospect for drug-carrier applications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three-arm star block copolymers of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (3S-PLGA)-polyethylene glycol (PEG) were synthesized by ring-opening polymerization, then PEG as the hydrophilic block was linked to the terminal hydroxyl of 3S-PLGA with oxalyl chloride. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, gel-permeation chromatography (GPC), hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectra, and differential scanning calorimetry were employed to identify the structure and properties of 3S-PLGA-PEG. Rapamycin (RPM)-loaded micelles were prepared by solvent evaporation, and pyrene was used as the fluorescence probe to detect the critical micelle concentration of the copolymer. The particle size, distribution, and ζ-potential of the micelles were determined by dynamic light scattering, and the morphology of the RPM-loaded micelles was analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. High-performance liquid chromatography was conducted to analyze encapsulation efficiency and drug-loading capacity, as well as the release behavior of RPM-loaded micelles. The biocompatibility of material and the cytostatic effect of RPM-loaded micelles were investigated by Cell Counting Kit 8 assay.

RESULTS

FT-IR, GPC, and 1H-NMR suggested that 3S-PLGA-PEG was successfully synthesized. The RPM-loaded micelles prepared with the 3S-PLGA-PEG possessed good properties. The micelles had good average diameter and encapsulation efficiency. For in vitro release, RPM was released slowly from 3S-PLGA-PEG micelles, showing that 3S-PLGA-PEG-RPM exhibited a better and longer antiproliferative effect than free RPM.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we first used oxalyl chloride as the linker to synthesize 3S-PLGA-PEG successfully, and compared with reported literature, this method shortened the reaction procedure and improved the reaction yield. The micelles prepared with this material proved suitable for drug-carrier application.

A simple method to improve the stability of docetaxel micelles

Self-assembled polymeric micelles have been widely applied in drug delivery systems. In this study, we found that pH value of micellar system solution was the decisive factor of physical stability. Furthermore, the weak basic solution could maintain the solution clarification for a relative long time. To investigate the stability of polymeric micelles in different pH solutions, the micellar particle size and the docetaxel content remaining in solution were detected at predetermined time points. The crystallographic assay of freeze-drying powder was characterized by an X-ray diffractometer. In vitro release results indicated that the PBS had little influence on the sustained-release effect of docetaxel-loaded polymeric micelles (DPM). Besides, the safety of micellar formulation was determined by an MTT assay on HEK293 cells, and the anti-tumor activity was tested on MCF-7 cells. The results demonstrated that DPM adjusted with PBS (DPM (PBS)) was of low toxicity and maintained the effectiveness of docetaxel. In vivo antitumor results indicated that DPM (PBS) had better antitumor efficacy than common docetaxel injection (DTX). Thus it was concluded that regulation of micellar solution PH by PBS is a safe and effective method to improve the physical stability of DPM. It might promote the application of micellar formulation in clinical applications.

A recent trend of drug-nanoparticles in suspension for the application in drug delivery

Persistent development in nanomedicine has enabled successful nanosizing of most drug samples which, in turn, imparts remarkable properties to the drugs such as enhanced solubility and bioavailability for the applications in drug delivery. In this context, several review articles are available in scientific domain covering inorganic nanoparticles such as Au, Ag, SPIONs, Qdots, carbon nanotubes and graphene; however, this review covers the development of drug nanoparticles together with their possibilities and limitation from fabrication (bottom up vs top down) to application in drug delivery during the last 5 years. In addition, some distinguished studies and novel drug particles are presented in order to contribute significantly toward the understanding of drug nanocrystals and its use in drug delivery.

The generation of myricetin-nicotinamide nanococrystals by top down and bottom up technologies

Myricetin-nicotinamide (MYR-NIC) nanococrystal preparation methods were developed and optimized using both top down and bottom up approaches. The grinding (top down) method successfully achieved nanococrystals, but there were some micrometer range particles and aggregation. The key consideration of the grinding technology was to control the milling time to determine a balance between the particle size and distribution. In contrast, a modified bottom up approach based on a solution method in conjunction with sonochemistry resulted in a uniform MYR-NIC nanococrystal that was confirmed by powder x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and differential scanning calorimeter, and the particle dissolution rate and amount were significantly greater than that of MYR-NIC cocrystal. Notably, this was a simple method without the addition of any non-solvent. We anticipate our findings will provide some guidance for future nanococrystal preparation as well as its application in both chemical and pharmaceutical area.

Recent Applications of Coaxial and Emulsion Electrospinning Methods in the Field of Tissue Engineering

Electrospinning has emerged as an effective method of producing nanoscale fibers for use in multiple fields of study. One area of significant interest is nanofiber utilization for tissue engineering because the nanofibrous mats can mimic the native extracellular matrix of biological tissues. A logical next step is the inclusion of certain molecules and compounds to accelerate or increase the efficacy of tissue regeneration. Two methods are under scrutiny for their capability to encapsulate therapeutic compounds within electrospun nanofibers: emulsion and coaxial electrospinning. Both have advantages and disadvantages, which need to be taken into careful consideration when deciding to use them in a specific application. Several examples are provided here to highlight the vast potential of multilayered nanofibers as well as the emergence of new techniques to produce three-dimensional scaffolds of nanofibers for use in the field of tissue engineering.

Efficient production of nanoparticle-loaded orodispersible films by process integration in a stirred media mill

Orodispersible films possess a great potential as a versatile platform for nanoparticle-loaded oral dosage forms. In this case, poorly water-soluble organic materials were ground in a stirred media mill and embedded into a polymer matrix. The aim of this study was the shortening of this manufacturing process by the integration of several process steps into a stirred media mill without facing disadvantages regarding the film quality. Furthermore, this process integration is time conserving due to the high stress intensities provided in the mill and applicable for high solids contents and high suspension viscosities. Two organic materials, the model compound Anthraquinone and the active pharmaceutical ingredient Naproxen were investigated in this study. Besides the impact of the film processing on the crystallinity of the particles in the orodispersible film, a particle load of up to 50% was investigated with the new developed processing route. Additionally, a disintegration test was developed, combining an appropriate amount of saliva substitute and a clear endpoint determination. In summary, high nanoparticle loads in orodispersible films with good particle size preservation after film redispersion in water as well as a manufacturing of the film casting mass within a few minutes in a stirred media mill was achieved.

Annonaceous acetogenins nanosuspensions stabilized by PCL-PEG block polymer: significantly improved antitumor efficacy

Annonaceous acetogenins (ACGs) have shown superior antitumor activity against a variety of cancer cell lines, but their clinical application has been limited by their poor solubility. In this study, ACGs-nanosuspensions (NSps) were successfully prepared by a precipitation ultrasonic method using monomethoxypoly (ethylene glycol)2000–poly (ε-caprolactone)2000 (mPEG2000–PCL2000) as a stabilizer. The resultant ACGs-NSps had a mean particle size of 123.2 nm, a zeta potential of −20.17 mV, and a high drug payload of 73.68%. ACGs-NSps were quite stable in various physiological solutions, and they exhibited sustained drug release. Compared to free drug, ACGs-NSps exhibited stronger cytotoxicity against 4T1, MCF-7, and HeLa cells. An in vivo real-time biodistribution investigation after labeling with 1,1′-dioctadecyltetramethyl indotricarbocyanine iodide, a noninvasive near-infrared fluorescence probe, demonstrated that ACGs-NSps could effectively accumulate in tumor. An in vivo antitumor activity study in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice revealed that ACGs-NSps achieved much better therapeutic efficacy than the traditional dosage form (oil solution) even at 1/10 of the dose (74.83% vs 45.53%, P<0.05), demonstrating that NSp was a good dosage form for ACGs to treat cancer.

Design and in vitro characterization of ivermectin nanocrystals liquid formulation based on a top-down approach

The aim of this study was to develop ivermectin (IVM) nanosuspensions (NSs) to improve the dissolution rate of this poorly water-soluble drug. Different NSs combining different stabilizers, i.e. poloxamer 188 (P188), polysorbate 80 (T80), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), were prepared by high-pressure homogenization. The stabilizers were selected based on the saturation solubility and IVM stability within 72 h. The screening of formulations was performed by considering the drug content within the nanosize range. The best formulation (IVM:T80:PVP 1:0.5:0.5 wt%) was characterized in terms of the particle size distribution, morphology, crystallinity, drug content, and in vitro dissolution profile. This NS was also evaluated from a stability point of view, by conditioning samples at a constant temperature and relative humidity for six months. The fresh and conditioned best NSs Z-sizes were 174.6 and 215.7 nm, respectively; while both NSs showed low polydispersity indexes. The faster dissolution rate for the IVM NS was attributed to the presence of nanoparticles and changes to the crystal structure (i.e. amorphization) that further improved solubility. The best NS had a 4-fold faster initial dissolution rate than raw IVM, and is thus a promising formulation for the treatment of human and animal parasitic diseases.