Emerging novel drug delivery strategies for bioactive flavonol fisetin in biomedicine

Therapeutic targeting of senescent cells in the CNS

Senescent cells accumulate throughout the body with advanced age, diseases and chronic conditions. They negatively impact health and function of multiple systems, including the central nervous system (CNS). Therapies that target senescent cells, broadly referred to as senotherapeutics, recently emerged as potentially important treatment strategies for the CNS. Promising therapeutic approaches involve clearing senescent cells by disarming their pro-survival pathways with 'senolytics'; or dampening their toxic senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) using 'senomorphics'. Following the pioneering discovery of first-generation senolytics dasatinib and quercetin, dozens of additional therapies have been identified, and several promising targets are under investigation. Although potentially transformative, senotherapies are still in early stages and require thorough testing to ensure reliable target engagement, specificity, safety and efficacy. The limited brain penetrance and potential toxic side effects of CNS-acting senotherapeutics pose challenges for drug development and translation to the clinic. This Review assesses the potential impact of senotherapeutics for neurological conditions by summarizing preclinical evidence, innovative methods for target and biomarker identification, academic and industry drug development pipelines and progress in clinical trials.

Fisetin as a senotherapeutic agent: Evidence and perspectives for age-related diseases

Fisetin, a flavonoid naturally occurring in plants, fruits, and vegetables, has recently gained attention for its potential role as a senotherapeutic agent for the treatment of age-related chronic diseases. Senotherapeutics target senescent cells, which accumulate with age and disease, in both circulating immune cell populations and solid organs and tissues. Senescent cells contribute to development of many chronic diseases, primarily by eliciting systemic chronic inflammation through their senescence-associated secretory phenotype. Here, we explore whether fisetin as a senotherapeutic can eliminate senescent cells, and thereby alleviate chronic diseases, by examining current evidence from in vitro studies and animal models that investigate fisetin's impact on age-related diseases, as well as from phase I/II trials in various patient populations. We discuss the application of fisetin in humans, including challenges and future directions. Our review of available data suggests that targeting senescent cells with fisetin offers a promising strategy for managing multiple chronic diseases, potentially transforming future healthcare for older and multimorbid patients. However, further studies are needed to establish the safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of fisetin as a senotherapeutic, identify relevant and reliable outcome measures in human trials, optimize dosing, and better understand the possible limitations of fisetin as a senotherapeutic agent.

Hyaluronic Acid-Coated Nanoliposomes as Delivery Systems for Fisetin: Stability, Membrane Fluidity, and Bioavailability

Fisetin has shown numerous health benefits, whereas its food application is constrained by water insolubility, poor stability, and low bioaccessibility. This work investigated the potential of hyaluronic acid (HA)-coated nanoliposomes for the encapsulation and delivery of fisetin. It was observed that HA can adsorb onto the liposomal membrane through hydrogen bonding and maintain the spherical shape of nanoliposomes. Fluorescence analysis suggested that the HA coating restricted the motion and freedom of phospholipid molecules in the headgroup region and reduced the interior micropolarity of the nanoliposomes but did not affect the fluidity of the hydrophobic core. These effects were more pronounced for the HA with a low molecular weight (35 kDa) and moderate concentration (0.4%). The HA coating improved the storage and thermal stability of the nanoliposomes, as well as the digestive stability and bioaccessibility of the encapsulated fisetin. These findings could guide the development of HA-coated nanoliposomes for the controlled delivery of hydrophobic bioactives such as fisetin in functional foods.

Betulin: a novel triterpenoid anti-cancerous agent targeting cervical cancer through epigenetic proteins

Worldwide, cervical cancer (CCa) is a major killer of women. As the conventional drugs used to treat cervical cancer are expensive and expose severe side effects, there is a growing demand to search for novel modifications. Therefore, in the current investigation employing a bioinformatic approach, we explored triterpenoids for their anti-cancer efficacy by targeting cervical cancer epigenetic proteins, namely DNMT3A, HDAC4, and KMT2C. The study utilized molecular docking, ADMET assay, Molecular Dynamic simulation, and DFT calculation to unveil Betulin (BE) as the potential lead compound. Comparative analysis with that standard drug indicated that BE has a better glide score with the target protein KM2TC (- 9.893 kcal/mol), HDAC4 (- 9.720 kcal/mol), and DNMT3A (- 7.811 kcal/mol), which depicts that BE could be a potent inhibitor of these three epigenetic proteins and exhibits favorable pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamics and toxicity properties. Molecular Dynamics simulation revealed noteworthy structural stability and compactness. DFT analysis revealed higher molecular activity of BE and showed the most increased kinetic stability (δE = 0.254647 eV). Further, we employed In vitro analysis through MTT assay and found that BE has IC50 of 15 µg/ml. In conclusion, BE can potentially treat CCa upon further investigations using in vivo models for better understanding.

Application potential of senolytics in clinical treatment

Of the factors studied in individual ageing, the accumulation of senescent cells has been considered as an essential cause of organ degeneration to eventually initiate age-related diseases. Cellular senescence is attributed to the accumulation of damage for an inducement in the activation of cell cycle inhibitory pathways, resulting the cell permanently withdraw from the cell proliferation cycle. Further, senescent cells will activate the inflammatory factor secretion pathway to promote the development of various age-related diseases. Senolytics, a small molecule compound, can delay disease development and extend mammalian lifespan. The evidence from multiple trials shows that the targeted killing of senescent cells has a significant clinical application for the treatment of age-related diseases. In addition, senolytics are also significant for the development of ageing research in solid organ transplantation, which can fully develop the potential of elderly organs and reduce the age gap between demand and supply. We conclude that the main characteristics of cellular senescence, the anti-ageing drug senolytics in the treatment of chronic diseases and organ transplantation, and the latest clinical progress of related researches in order to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of ageing and related diseases.

Sonoprocessing enhances the stabilization of fisetin by encapsulation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells

The objective of this study was to investigate for the first time the role of S. cerevisiae natural barriers and endogenous cytoplasmatic bodies on the stabilization of fisetin encapsulated via sonoprocessing coupled to freeze-drying (FD) or spray drying (SD). Both protocols of encapsulation improved the resistance of fisetin against thermal treatments (between 60 and 150 °C) and photochemical-induced deterioration (light exposition for 60 days) compared to non-encapsulated fisetin (antioxidant activity retention of approximately 55% and 90%, respectively). When stored under constant relative humidity (from 32.8 to 90%) for 60 days, yeast carriers improved the half-life time of fisetin by up to 4-fold. Spray dried particles were smaller (4.9 μm) and showed higher fisetin release after simulated gastrointestinal digestion (55.7%) when compared to FD. Freeze-dried particles, in turn, tended to agglomerate more than SD (zeta potential -19.7 mV), resulting in reduced loading features (6.3 mg/g) and less efficient protection of fisetin to heat, photo, and moisture-induced deterioration. Overall, spray-dried sonoprocessed fisetin capsules are an efficient way to preserve fisetin against harsh conditions. Altogether, this report shows that sonoprocessing coupled to drying is an efficient, creative, and straightforward route to protect and deliver lipophilic fisetin using yeast capsules for food applications.

Folate conjugated albumin as a targeted nanocarrier for the delivery of fisetin: in silico and in vitro biological studies

Fisetin (FST), a natural flavonoid compound derived from various fruits and vegetables, including apple, strawberry, and onion, demonstrates potential for a wide range of pharmaceutical applications, including potential anticancer properties. However, challenges such as low bioavailability, poor aqueous solubility, and limited permeability restrict the use of FST in the pharmaceutical sector. Nowadays, targeted nanomedicines have garnered attention to overcome limitations associated with phytochemicals, including FST. In the present study, we have designed and successfully prepared folate-targeted FST nanoparticles (FFNPs). Characterization through DLS and FE-SEM revealed the successful preparation of monodisperse (PDI: 0.117), nanoscale-sized (150 nm), and spherical nanoparticles. Physicochemical characterization including FTIR, XRD, DSC, and TGA analysis, confirmed the encapsulation of the FST within the Folic acid (FA) - conjugated nanoparticles (CNPs) and revealed its amorphous nature. Molecular docking analysis revealed the strong binding affinity and specific amino acid interactions involved in the BSA-FST-FA complex, suggesting the potential synergistic effect of FST and FA in enhancing the therapeutic activity of the FFANPs. Cytotoxic assessments by the MTT assay, migration assay, AO-EtBr staining assay, colony formation assay, and cellular uptake study demonstrated enhanced anticancer efficacy, apoptosis induction, and enhanced uptake of FFNPs compared to pure FST. These findings propose prepared FFNPs as a promising targeted drug delivery nanocarrier for effective FST delivery in cancer therapy.

Novel PEGylated cholephytosomes for targeting fisetin to breast cancer: in vitro appraisal and in vivo antitumoral studies

Fisetin (FIS) is a multifunctional bioactive flavanol that has been recently exploited as anticancer drug against various cancers including breast cancer. However, its poor aqueous solubility has constrained its clinical application. In the current work, fisetin is complexed for the first time with soy phosphatidylcholine in the presence of cholesterol to form a novel biocompatible phytosomal system entitled "cholephytosomes." To improve fisetin antitumor activity against breast cancer, stearylamine bearing cationic cholephytosomes (mPHY) were prepared and furtherly modified with hyaluronic acid (HPHY) to allow their orientation to cancer cells through their surface exposed phosphatidylserine and CD-44 receptors, respectively. In vitro characterization studies revealed promising physicochemical properties of both modified vesicles (mPHY and HPHY) including excellent FIS complexation efficiency (˷100%), improved octanol/water solubility along with a sustained drug release over 24 h. In vitro cell line studies against MDA-MB-231 cell line showed about 10- and 3.5-fold inhibition in IC50 of modified vesicles compared with free drug and conventional drug-phospholipid complex, respectively. Preclinical studies revealed that both modified cholephytosomes (mPHY and HPHY) had comparable cytotoxicity that is significantly surpassing free drug cytotoxicity. TGF-β1and its non-canonical related signaling pathway; ERK1/2, NF-κB, and MMP-9 were involved in halting tumorigenesis. Thus, tailoring novel phytosomal nanosystems for FIS could open opportunity for its clinical utility against cancer.

A Fisetin Delivery System for Neuroprotection: A Co-Amorphous Dispersion Prepared in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide

Fisetin (FIS), a senolytic flavonoid, mitigates age-related neuroprotective changes. An amorphous FIS dispersion with a co-carrier was prepared using supercritical fluid extraction with carbon dioxide (scCO2). Characterisation, including powder X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, confirmed amorphization and assessed intermolecular interactions. The amorphous FIS dispersion exhibited enhanced solubility, dissolution profiles, and bioavailability compared to the crystalline form. In vitro, the amorphous FIS dispersion demonstrated antioxidant activity (the ABTS, CUPRAC, DDPH, FRAP assays) and neuroprotective effects by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase. FIS modulated gut microbiota, reducing potentially pathogenic gram-negative bacteria without affecting probiotic microflora. These improvements in solubility, antioxidant and neuroprotective activities, and gut microbiome modulation suggest the potential for optimising FIS delivery systems to leverage its health-promoting properties while addressing oral functionality limitations.

Role of Fisetin in Selected Malignant Neoplasms in Women

A promising therapeutic window and cost-effectiveness are just two of the potential advantages of using naturally derived drugs. Fisetin (3,3',4',7-tetrahydroxyflavone) is a natural flavonoid of the flavonol group, commonly found in fruit and vegetables. In recent years, fisetin has gained wide attention across the scientific community because of its broad spectrum of pharmacological properties, including cytotoxic activity against most abundant cancers. By stimulating or inhibiting selected molecular targets or biochemical processes, fisetin could affect the reduction of metastasis or cancer progression, which indicates its chemotherapeutic or chemopreventive role. In this review, we have summarized the results of studies on the anticancer effects of fisetin on selected female malignancies, both in in vitro and in vivo tests, i.e., breast, cervical, and ovarian cancer, published over the past two decades. Until now, no article dedicated exclusively to the action of fisetin on female malignancies has appeared. This review also describes a growing number of nanodelivery systems designed to improve the bioavailability and solubility of this natural compound. The reported low toxicity and activity of fisetin on cancer cells indicate its valuable potential, but large-scale clinical trials are urgently needed to assess real chemotherapeutic efficacy of this flavonoid.

The Neuroprotective Role of Fisetin in Different Neurological Diseases: a Systematic Review

Neurological diseases place a substantial burden on public health and have a serious impact on the quality of life of patients. Despite the multifaceted pathological process involved in the occurrence and development of these neurological diseases, each disease has its own unique pathological characteristics and underlying molecular mechanisms which trigger their onset. Thus, it is unlikely to achieve effective treatment of neurological diseases by means of a single approach. To this end, we reason that it is pivotal to seek an efficient strategy that implements multitherapeutic targeting and addresses the multifaceted pathological process to overcome the complex issues related to neural dysfunction. In recent years, natural medicinal plant-derived monomers have received extensive attention as new neuroprotective agents for treatment of neurological disorders. Fisetin, a flavonoid, has emerged as a novel potential molecule that enhances neural protection and reverses cognitive abnormalities. The neuroprotective effects of fisetin are attributed to its multifaceted biological activity and multiple therapeutic mechanisms associated with different neurological disorders. In this review article, we summarize recent research progression regarding the pharmacological effects of fisetin in treating several neurological diseases and the potential mechanisms.

Isolation and characterization of natural inhibitors of post-proline specific peptidases from the leaves of Cotinus coggygria Scop

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cotinus coggygria has a number of applications in traditional medicine most of which are connected with its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Since inflammation and oxidative stress are recognized as triggering factors for cancer, anti-cancer activity has also been documented and the possible mechanisms of this activity are under investigation. Important components of C. coggygria extracts are shown to be hydrolysable gallotannins of which pentagalloyl-O-glucose has been studied in details. This compound inhibits various enzymes including prolyl oligopeptidase which is involved in tumorigenesis and tumour growth. According to our pilot studies, oligo-O-galloylglucoses with more than five galloyl residues are also presented in the herb of Bulgarian origin, but their activities have not been examined.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To establish an extraction method by which it is possible to concentrate high molecular hydrolysable gallotannins from dried leaves of Cotinus coggygria and to determine their inhibitory properties towards prolyl oligopeptidase and fibroblast activation protein α.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dried leaves of C. coggygria were extracted using different solvents in single-phase or biphasic systems under various extraction conditions. Main compounds of the extracts were identified by using high performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography - high resolution mass spectrometry. The extracts' inhibitory properties towards prolyl oligopeptidase and fibroblast activation protein α were studied on recombinant human enzymes by enzyme kinetic analyses using a fluorogenic substrate.

RESULTS

Ethyl acetate/water (pH 3.0) extraction of dried plant leaves proved to be the most efficient method for isolation of high molecular hydrolysable gallotannins which can be further concentrated by precipitation of dicyclohexylammonium salts in ethyl acetate. The main components of those extracts were oligo-O-galloyl glucoses with more than five gallic acid residues. They were shown to inhibit both enzymes studied but were about 30 times more effective inhibitors of prolyl oligopeptidase.

CONCLUSIONS

C. coggygria from Bulgarian origin is shown to possess a substantial quantity of oligo-O-galloyl glucoses with more than five gallic acid residues which has not been described thus far in the same herb from other sources. An extraction method useable for concentrating those compounds is established. They are found to inhibit prolyl oligopeptidase with a very good selectivity to fibroblast activation protein α. The previously described antitumor activity of this plant may be at least in part due to the inhibition of the above enzymes which has been shown to participate in the genesis and development of various types of tumors.

Fisetin-In Search of Better Bioavailability-From Macro to Nano Modifications: A Review

As secondary plant metabolites, polyphenols are abundant in fruits and vegetables. They are in high demand because of their many health benefits. However, their low bioavailability makes them complex compounds to use for therapeutic purposes. Due to the limited solubility of phytocompounds, dietary supplements made from them may only be partially effective. Such molecules include fisetin, found in strawberries, and have shown great promise in treating Alzheimer's disease and cancer. Unfortunately, because of their limited water solubility, low absorption, and poor bioavailability, the assistance of nanotechnology is required to allow them to fulfil their potential fully. Here, we provide evidence that nanodelivery methods and structure modifications can improve fisetin bioavailability, which is linked to improvements in therapeutic efficacy. An open question remains as to which nanocarrier should be chosen to meet the abovementioned requirements and be able to enhance fisetin's therapeutic potential to treat a particular disease.

Fisetin attenuates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by inhibiting the insulin-like growth factor II receptor apoptotic pathway through estrogen receptor-α/-β activation

Doxorubicin (DOX), an effective chemotherapeutic drug, has been used to treat various cancers; however, its cardiotoxic side effects restrict its therapeutic efficacy. Fisetin, a flavonoid phytoestrogen derived from a range of fruits and vegetables, has been reported to exert cardioprotective effects against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated fisetin's cardioprotective role and mechanism against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts and ovariectomized (OVX) rat models. MTT assay revealed that fisetin treatment noticeably rescued DOX-induced cell death in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, western blotting and TUNEL-DAPI staining showed that fisetin significantly attenuated DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting the insulin-like growth factor II receptor (IGF-IIR) apoptotic pathway through estrogen receptor (ER)-α/-β activation. The echocardiography, biochemical assay, and H&E staining results demonstrated that fisetin reduced DOX-induced cardiotoxicity by alleviating cardiac dysfunction, myocardial injury, oxidative stress, and histopathological damage. These findings imply that fisetin has a significant therapeutic potential against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.

Self-assembled fisetin-phospholipid complex: Fisetin-integrated phytosomes for effective delivery to breast cancer

Nowadays, fisetin (FIS) is extensively studied as potent anticancer surrogate with a multitarget actions against various types of cancers including breast cancer. However, its poor aqueous solubility handicapped its clinical utility. The current work endeavored, for the first time, to develop FIS phytosomes (FIS-PHY) for improving its physicochemical properties and subsequently its anticancer activity. Optimization of FIS- phytosomes involved different preparation techniques (Thin film hydration and ethanol injection) and different FIS: phospholipid molar ratios (1:1, 1:2, and 1:3). Complex formation was confirmed by complexation efficiency, infrared spectroscopy (IR), solubility studies and transmission electron microscope. The optimized FIS-PHY of 1:1 M ratio (PHY1) exhibited a nanometric particle size of 233.01 ± 9.46 nm with homogenous distribution (PDI = 0.27), negative zeta potential of - 29.41 mV, 100% complexation efficiency and controlled drug release over 24 h. In-vitro cytotoxicity study showed 2.5-fold decrease in IC50 of PHY1 compared with free FIS. Also, pharmacodynamic studies confirmed the promoted cytotoxicity of PHY1 against breast cancer through modulating TGF-β1/MMP-9 molecular pathways of tumorigenesis. Overall, overcoming FIS drawbacks were successfully achieved through development of innovative biocompatible phytosomal system.

Beneficial effects of flavonoids on cardiovascular diseases by influencing NLRP3 inflammasome

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of global mortality and have a high incidence rate worldwide. The function of inflammasomes in CVDs has received a lot of attention recently, and the nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome may be a new target for the prevention and treatment of CVDs. Flavonoids, which are found in food and plant extracts, inhibited inflammation in CVDs by regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome. CB-Dock was used to investigate whether 34 flavonoids from natural products acted on NLRP3 inflammasome. In brief, the PDB format of NLRP3 was selected as a protein file, and 34 flavonoids in SDF format were selected as the ligand file, and then input to CB-Dock for molecular docking. The docking results showed that epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), amentoflavone, baicalin, scutellarin, vitexin, silibinin, and puerarin had good binding affinities to NLRP3, which could be used as NLRP3 inhibitors, and aid in the discovery of lead compounds for the design and development of CVDs.

Promising remedies for cardiovascular disease: Natural polyphenol ellagic acid and its metabolite urolithins

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a significant worldwide factor contributing to human fatality and morbidity. With the increase of incidence rates, it is of concern that there is a lack of current therapeutic alternatives because of multiple side effects. Ellagic acid (EA), the natural polyphenol (C₁₄H₆O₈), is abundant in pomegranates, berries, and nuts. EA and its intestinal microflora metabolite, urolithins, have recently attracted much attention as a potential novel "medicine" because of their wide pharmacological properties.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to critically analyze available literature to summarize the beneficial effects of EA and urolithins, and highlights their druggability and therapeutic potential in various CVDs.

METHODS

We systematically studied research and review articles between 1984 and 2022 available on various databases to obtain the data on EA and urolithins with no language restriction. Their cardiovascular protective activities, underlying mechanism, and druggability were highlighted and discussed comprehensively.

RESULTS

We found that EA and urolithins may exert preventive and curative effects on CVD with negligible side effects and possibly regulate lipid metabolism imbalance, pro-inflammatory factor production, vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, endothelial cell dysfunction, and Ca²⁺ intake and release. Potentially, this may lead to the prevention and amelioration of atherosclerosis, hypertension, myocardial infarction, cardiac fibrosis, cardiomyopathy, cardiac arrhythmias, and cardiotoxicities in vivo. Several molecules and signaling pathways are associated with their therapeutic actions, including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B, mitogen-activated protein kinase, NF-κB, nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2, sirtuin1, miRNA, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2.

CONCLUSION

In vitro and in vivo studies shows that EA and urolithins could be used as valid candidates for early prevention and effective therapeutic strategies for various CVDs.

Formulation Strategies for Enhancing Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Potential of Sesamol: A Natural Phenolic Bioactive

Natural plants and their products continue to be the major source of phytoconstituents in food and therapeutics. Scientific studies have evidenced the benefits of sesame oil and its bioactives in various health conditions. Various bioactives present in it include sesamin, sasamolin, sesaminol, and sesamol; among these, sesamol represents a major constituent. This bioactive is responsible for preventing various diseases including cancer, hepatic disorders, cardiac ailments, and neurological diseases. In the last decade, the application of sesamol in the management of various disorders has attracted the increasing interest of the research community. Owing to its prominent pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antineoplastic, and antimicrobial, sesamol has been explored for the above-mentioned disorders. However, despite the above-mentioned therapeutic potential, its clinical utility is mainly hindered owing to low solubility, stability, bioavailability, and rapid clearance issues. In this regard, numerous strategies have been explored to surpass these restrictions with the formulation of novel carrier platforms. This review aims to describe the various reports and summarize the different pharmacological activities of sesamol. Furthermore, one part of this review is devoted to formulating strategies to improve sesamol's challenges. To resolve the issues such as the stability, low bioavailability, and high systemic clearance of sesamol, novel carrier systems have been developed to open a new avenue to utilize this bioactive as an efficient first-line treatment for various diseases.

Fisetin in Cancer: Attributes, Developmental Aspects, and Nanotherapeutics

Cancer is one of the major causes of mortality, globally. Cancerous cells invade normal cells and metastasize to distant sites with the help of the lymphatic system. There are several mechanisms involved in the development and progression of cancer. Several treatment strategies including the use of phytoconstituents have evolved and been practiced for better therapeutic outcomes against cancer. Fisetin is one such naturally derived flavone that offers numerous pharmacological benefits, i.e., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, and anticancer properties. It inhibits the rapid growth, invasiveness, and metastasis of tumors by hindering the multiplication of cancer cells, and prompts apoptosis by avoiding cell division related to actuation of caspase-9 and caspase-8. However, its poor bioavailability associated with its extreme hydrophobicity hampers its clinical utility. The issues related to fisetin delivery can be addressed by adapting to the developmental aspects of nanomedicines, such as formulating it into lipid or polymer-based systems, including nanocochleates and liposomes. This review aims to provide in-depth information regarding fisetin as a potential candidate for anticancer therapy, its properties and various formulation strategies.

Enhanced bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of a novel hybrid-hydrogel formulation of fisetin orally administered in healthy individuals: a randomised double-blinded comparative crossover study

Fisetin, a polyphenol found in several fruits and vegetables, has shown potential health benefits in many pre-clinical studies for neuroprotection, cardioprotection, chemoprevention, diabetes, inflammation and oxidative stress. However, the clinical effectiveness of fisetin may be limited by its poor bioavailability when ingested. Using a novel green technology of Hybrid-FENUMAT™, a food-grade fisetin formulation (FF-20) was developed through encapsulation of fisetin micelles into fenugreek galactomannan (FG) hydrogel scaffold to improve its physical characteristics and bioavailability. This is the first human pharmacokinetic study of fisetin following a single-dose, comparative, double-blinded, cross-over protocol, supplementing with FF-20 and unformulated fisetin (UF). Fifteen healthy volunteers were given a single dose of 1000 mg UF or 1000 mg FF-20 (delivering 192 mg fisetin) with a 10-d washout period between each dose. Blood samples were taken at 0⋅5, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8 and 12 h after both days of supplementation to quantify fisetin and geraldol, an active metabolite. The plasma concentration of fisetin when individuals consumed FF-20 was 26⋅9-fold greater than UF as determined by the area under the curve over 12 h [AUC0–12 h (FF-20) = 341⋅4 v . AUC0–12 h (UF) = 12⋅67]. The maximum plasma concentration (C max) was also more than twenty-three times higher when supplemented with FF-20 (238⋅2 ng/ml) compared to UF (9⋅97 ng/ml). The encapsulation also reduced the amount of conversion of fisetin to geraldol. No adverse events were reported during the study. Therefore, the encapsulation of fisetin into FG dietary fibre hydrogel scaffold could improve its delivery and bioavailability in human subjects.

Stimuli-Responsive Miktoarm Polymer-Based Formulations for Fisetin Delivery and Regulatory Effects in Hyperactive Human Microglia

Branched star polymers offer exciting opportunities in enhancing the efficacy of nanocarriers in delivering biologically active lipophilic agents. We demonstrate that the star polymeric architecture can be leveraged to yield soft nanoparticles of vesicular morphology with precisely located stimuli-sensitive chemical entities. Amphiphilic stars of AB₂ (A = PEG, B = PCL) composition with/without oxidative stress or reduction responsive units at the core junction of A and B arms, are constructed using synthetic articulation. Fisetin, a natural flavonoid with remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but of limited clinical value due to its poor aqueous solubility, was physically encapsulated into miktoarm star-derived aqueous polymersomes. We evaluated polymersomes and fisetin separately, and in combination, in human microglia (HMC3), to show if (i) polymersomes are toxic; (ii) fisetin reduces the abundance of reactive oxygen species (ROS); and (iii) fisetin modulates the activation of ERK1/2. These signaling molecules and pathways are implicated in inflammatory processes and cell survival. Fisetin, both incorporated and non-incorporated into polymersomes, reduced ROS and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in lipopolysaccharide-treated human microglia, normalizing excessive oxidative stress and ERK-mediated signaling. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Fisetin Attenuated Oxidative Stress-Induced Cellular Damage in ARPE-19 Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Through Nrf2-Mediated Activation of Heme Oxygenase-1

Fisetin is a kind of bioactive flavonol, widely present in various fruits such as strawberries and apples, and is known to act as a potent free radical scavenger. However, the mechanism of action related to the antioxidant activity of this compound in human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is not precisely known. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether fisetin could attenuate oxidative stress-induced cytotoxicity on human RPE ARPE-19 cells. To mimic oxidative stress, ARPE-19 cells were treated with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and fisetin significantly inhibited H₂O₂-induced loss of cell viability and increase of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Fisetin also markedly attenuated DNA damage and apoptosis in H₂O₂-treated ARPE-19 cells. Moreover, mitochondrial dysfunction in H₂O₂-treated cells was alleviated in the presence of fisetin as indicated by preservation of mitochondrial membrane potential, increase of Bcl-2/Bax expression ratio, and suppression of cytochrome c release into the cytoplasm. In addition, fisetin enhanced phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), which was associated with increased expression and activity of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). However, the HO-1 inhibitor, zinc protoporphyrin, significantly reversed the protective effect of fisetin against H₂O₂-mediated ARPE-19 cell injury. Therefore, our results suggest that Nrf2-mediated activation of antioxidant enzyme HO-1 may play an important role in the ROS scavenging activity of fisetin in RPE cells, contributing to the amelioration of oxidative stress-induced ocular disorders.

Targeting Cardiovascular Diseases by Flavonols: An Update

Flavonols are one of the most plentiful flavonoid subclasses found in natural products and are extensively used as dietary supplements. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have shown the cardioprotective properties of flavonols, especially quercetin. This group of substances exerts positive impacts primarily due to their antiatherogenic, antithrombotic, and antioxidant activities. The potential of flavonols to promote vasodilation and regulation of apoptotic processes in the endothelium are other beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. Despite promising experimental findings, randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have yielded inconsistent results on the influence of these substances on human cardiovascular parameters. Thus, this review aims to summarize the most recent clinical data on the intake of these substances and their effects on the cardiovascular system. The present study will help clinicians and other healthcare workers understand the value of flavonol supplementation in both subjects at risk for cardiovascular disease and patients with cardiovascular diseases.

Biotechnological Applications and Health-Promoting Properties of Flavonols: An Updated View

Flavonols are a subclass of natural flavonoids characterized by a remarkable number of biotechnological applications and health-promoting properties. They attract researchers' attention due to many epidemiological studies supporting their usage. They are phytochemicals commonly present in our diet, being ubiquitous in the plant kingdom and, in particular, relatively very abundant in fruits and vegetables. All these aspects make flavonols candidates of choice for the valorization of products, based on the presence of a remarkable number of different chemical structures, each one characterized by specific chemical features capable of influencing biological targets inside the living organisms in very different manners. In this review, we analyzed the biochemical and physiological characteristics of flavonols focalizing our attention on the most promising compounds to shed some light on their increasing utilization in biotechnological applications in processing industries, as well as their suitable employment to improve the overall wellness of the humankind.

Fisetin Deters Cell Proliferation, Induces Apoptosis, Alleviates Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Human Cancer Cells, HeLa

Background: Fisetin, a flavonol profusely found in vegetables and fruits, exhibited a myriad of properties in preclinical studies to impede cancer growth. Purpose: This study was proposed to delineate molecular mechanisms through analysing the modulated expression of various molecular targets in HeLa cells involved in proliferation, apoptosis and inflammation. Methods: MTT assay, flow cytometry, nuclear morphology, DNA fragmentation and Annexin–Pi were performed to evaluate the anti-cancer potential of fisetin. Furthermore, qPCR and proteome profiler were performed to analyse the expression of variety of gene related to cell death, cell proliferation, oxidative stress and inflammation and cancer pathways. Results: Fisetin demonstrated apoptotic inducing ability in HeLa cells, which was quite evident through nuclear morphology, DNA ladder pattern, decreased TMRE fluorescent intensity, cell cycle arrest at G₂/M and increased early and late apoptosis. Furthermore, fisetin treatment modulated pro-apoptotic genes such as APAF1, Bad, Bax, Bid and BIK at both transcript and protein levels and anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2, BIRC8, MCL-1, XIAP/BIRC4, Livin/BIRC7, clap-2/BIRC3, etc. at protein levels to mitigate cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. Interestingly, the aforementioned alterations consequently led to an elevated level of Caspase-3, Caspase-8 and Caspase-9, which was found to be consistent with the transcript and protein level expression. Moreover, fisetin downregulated the expression of AKT and MAPK pathways to avert proliferation and enhance apoptosis of cancer cells. Fisetin treatment also improves oxidative stress and alleviates inflammation by regulating JAK-STAT/NF-kB pathways. Conclusion: Together, these studies established that fisetin deters human cervical cancer cell proliferation, enhances apoptosis and ameliorates inflammation through regulating various signalling pathways that may be used as a therapeutic regime for better cancer management.

Herbal Nanoformulations for Asthma Treatment

BACKGROUND

In recent decades, the prevalence of asthma has substantially increased worldwide. Advances in phytochemistry and phytopharmacology have clarified the active ingredients and biological activities of medicinal plant products for treating asthma, and the role of herbal therapies in asthma treatment has become increasingly evident. However, most plant extracts have low solubility and poor stability of bioactive components, resulting in low bioavailability and loss of efficacy. Owing to these shortcomings, the clinical use of many herbal extracts is limited.

OBJECTIVE

To summarise and analyse the characteristics of herbal nanoformulations and their application in asthma treatment. The objective of this review article is to address the emerging trends of herbal nanoformulations for an effective treatment for asthma.

METHODS

Various research and review articles from reputed international journals were referred and compiled.

RESULTS

The nano-sized herbal formulations improve the solubility and bioavailability of herbal medicines and contribute to the sustained release of drugs, thus, increasing the therapeutic applications of herbal extracts. The review present different types of herbal nanoformulations, including micelles, nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid-based liquid crystalline nanoparticles and nanoemulsions, which are potential nanodrugs for asthma treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Herbal nanoformulations have shown great prospects for treatment of asthma in recent years. More safety and toxicity data are still needed to promote their development and application.

Neuroprotective potential of fisetin in an experimental model of spinal cord injury: via modulation of NF-κB/IκBα pathway

AIM

To evaluate neuroprotective efficacy of fisetin against the experimental model of spinal cord injury (SCI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SCI was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by placing an aneurysm clip extradurally. Rats were treated either with vehicle or fisetin for 28 days after SCI.

RESULTS

Treatment with fisetin significantly attenuated SCI-induced alternations in mechano-tactile and thermal allodynia, hyperalgesia and nerve conduction velocities. SCI-induced upregulated tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukins, inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-II, Bcl-2-associated X protein and caspase-3 mRNA expressions in the spinal cord and these were markedly reduced by fisetin. Spinal nuclear factor kappa B and nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor-alpha protein levels were also significantly downregulated by fisetin. Hematoxylin and eosin staining of spinal cord suggested that fisetin significantly ameliorated histological aberrations such as neuronal degeneration, necrosis and inflammatory infiltration induced in it.

CONCLUSION

Fisetin exerts neuroprotection via modulation of nuclear factor kappa B/nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor-alpha pathway by inhibiting release of inflammatory mediators (inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-II), proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukins), apoptotic mediators (Bcl-2-associated X protein and caspase-3).

Stability of natural polyphenol fisetin in eye drops Stability of fisetin in eye drops

Fisetin is a polyphenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Inflammation and reactive oxygen species play a major role in the pathophysiology of the dry eye syndrome (DES). Patients with DES undergo symptomatic treatment using eye drops known as artificial tears. Addition of fisetin into the eye drops could result in a better recovery of the eye surface. This experimental study examines the stability of fisetin in selected eye drops (Arufil, Hypromelóza-P, Ocutein, Refresh). Absorption spectra of fisetin were measured in selected eye drops, dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO), deionized water and normal saline solution (NSS) during a period of four weeks. The fisetin absorption maximum was placed at 350 – 390 nm depending on the solvent. Good stability of fisetin solutions were observed in DMSO and deionized water. The highest stability of fisetin in selected eye drops was observed in Hypromelóza-P. Irreversible fisetin structural changes were detected in Arufil, Ocutein, Refresh and NSS. For further clinical evaluation, fisetin solution in Hypromelóza-P could be examined.

Fisetin Prevents HT22 Cells From High Glucose-Induced Neurotoxicity via PI3K/Akt/CREB Signaling Pathway

Hyperglycemia has been widely considered as a key risk factor for diabetic encephalopathy which can cause neuronal apoptosis and cognitive deficits. The flavonoid compound, fisetin, possesses potential neuroprotective effects and also enhances learning and memory. However, the role of fisetin in hyperglycemia-induced neuronal cytotoxicity has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, HT22 murine hippocampal neuronal cell line was used to establish the injured cell model. Cell proliferation and cytotoxicity assay, Hoechst 33258 staining, qRT-PCR, western blot analysis, and specific inhibitor were used to investigate the effect and molecular mechanisms of fisetin on high glucose (HG)-induced neurotoxicity in HT22 cells. Our results showed that 125 μM and 48 h of treatment was identified as optimal damage parameter of HG. Fisetin significantly improved HG-inhibited cell viability. The levels of LDH, malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were noticeably modulated by fisetin, which alleviated HG-induced HT22 cell oxidative damage. Besides, the apoptosis of HT22 cells was rescued by fisetin pretreatment. In addition, fisetin also prevented HG-induced downregulation of the mRNA expression of Bdnf, Gdnf, synaptophysin (Syp), and glutamate ionotropic receptor AMPA type subunit 1 (Gria1) in cells. More importantly, the decreased phosphorylation of phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K), Akt, and cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) was rescued by fisetin treatment and that neuroprotective effect of fisetin was partially blocked by PI3K inhibitor, LY294002. These findings indicate that fisetin has potent neuroprotective effect and prevents HG-induced neurotoxicity by activation of PI3K/Akt/CREB pathway.

Fabrication of Supercritical Antisolvent (SAS) Process-Assisted Fisetin-Encapsulated Poly (Vinyl Pyrrolidone) (PVP) Nanocomposites for Improved Anticancer Therapy

Due to its hydrophobicity, fisetin (FIS) often suffers from several limitations in terms of its applicability during the fabrication of pharmaceutical formulations. To overcome this intrinsic limitation of hydrophobicity, we demonstrate here the generation of poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP)-encapsulated FIS nanoparticles (FIS-PVP NPs) utilizing a supercritical antisolvent (SAS) method to enhance its aqueous solubility and substantial therapeutic effects. In this context, the effects of various processing and formulation parameters, including the solvent/antisolvent ratio, drug/polymer (FIS/PVP) mass ratio, and solution flow rate, on the eventual particle size as well as on distribution were investigated using a 23 factorial experimental design. Notably, the FIS/PVP mass ratio significantly affected the morphological attributes of the resultant particles. Initially, the designed constructs were characterized systematically using various techniques (e.g., chemical functionalities were examined with Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and physical states were examined with X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques). In addition, drug release as well as cytotoxicity evaluations in vitro indicated that the nanosized polymer-coated particles showed augmented performance efficiency compared to the free drug, which was attributable to the improvement in the dissolution rate of the FIS-PVP NPs due to their small size, facilitating a higher surface area over the raw form of FIS. Our findings show that the designed SAS process-assisted nanoconstructs with augmented bioavailability, have great potential for applications in pharmaceutics.

Attenuation of reserpine-induced fibromyalgia via ROS and serotonergic pathway modulation by fisetin, a plant flavonoid polyphenol

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic complex musculoskeletal disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbance, memory defects and mood changes. Fisetin, a plant flavonoid polyphenol, has been reported to possess potent antioxidant, antinociceptive and neuroprotective activities. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of fisetin against reserpine-induced FM (RIF) in rats. RIF was induced in male Wistar rats (180–220 gm) using reserpine (1 mg/kg; subcutaneous; once daily for 3 consecutive days) and the rats were treated with fisetin (5, 10 and 25 mg/kg) for 21 days. Various behavioral, biochemical and molecular parameters were evaluated. Administration of reserpine induced allodynia, hyperalgesia and depression, which were significantly ameliorated (P<0.05) by fisetin (10 and 25 mg/kg), as reflected by an increase in paw and tail withdrawal latency, increased paw withdrawal threshold, and decreased immobility time. Reserpine led to decreased biogenic amine levels [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), noradrenaline (NA) and dopamine (DA)] and increased the ratio to their metabolite 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid. 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid in the spinal cord, thalamus and prefrontal cortex was significantly decreased (P<0.05) by fisetin. Immunohistological analysis of brain tissue revealed that fisetin significantly inhibited (P<0.05) reserpine-induced depletion of 5-HT. It also significantly inhibited (P<0.05) elevated oxido-nitrosative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, as analyzed by flow cytometry in RIF rats. Fisetin exerts its antinociceptive and anti-depressive potential via modulation of decreased levels of biogenic amines (5-HT, NA and DA), elevated oxido-nitrosative stress and ROS to ameliorate allodynia, hyperalgesia, and depression in experimental RIF.

New Perspectives for Fisetin

Fisetin is a flavonol that shares distinct antioxidant properties with a plethora of other plant polyphenols. Additionally, it exhibits a specific biological activity of considerable interest as regards the protection of functional macromolecules against stress which results in the sustenance of normal cells cytoprotection. Moreover, it shows potential as an anti-inflammatory, chemopreventive, chemotherapeutic and recently also senotherapeutic agent. In view of its prospective applications in healthcare and likely demand for fisetin, methods for its preparation and their suitability for pharmaceutical use are discussed herein.

Adapting Proteostasis and Autophagy for Controlling the Pathogenesis of Cystic Fibrosis Lung Disease

Cystic fibrosis (CF), a fatal genetic disorder predominant in the Caucasian population, is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (Cftr) gene. The most common mutation is the deletion of phenylalanine from the position-508 (F508del-CFTR), resulting in a misfolded-CFTR protein, which is unable to fold, traffic and retain its plasma membrane (PM) localization. The resulting CFTR dysfunction, dysregulates variety of key cellular mechanisms such as chloride ion transport, airway surface liquid (ASL) homeostasis, mucociliary-clearance, inflammatory-oxidative signaling, and proteostasis that includes ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) and autophagy. A collective dysregulation of these key homoeostatic mechanisms contributes to the development of chronic obstructive cystic fibrosis lung disease, instead of the classical belief focused exclusively on ion-transport defect. Hence, therapeutic intervention(s) aimed at rescuing chronic CF lung disease needs to correct underlying defect that mediates homeostatic dysfunctions and not just chloride ion transport. Since targeting all the myriad defects individually could be quite challenging, it will be prudent to identify a process which controls almost all disease-promoting processes in the CF airways including underlying CFTR dysfunction. There is emerging experimental and clinical evidence that supports the notion that impaired cellular proteostasis and autophagy plays a central role in regulating pathogenesis of chronic CF lung disease. Thus, correcting the underlying proteostasis and autophagy defect in controlling CF pulmonary disease, primarily via correcting the protein processing defect of F508del-CFTR protein has emerged as a novel intervention strategy. Hence, we discuss here both the rationale and significant therapeutic utility of emerging proteostasis and autophagy modulating drugs/compounds in controlling chronic CF lung disease, where targeted delivery is a critical factor-influencing efficacy.

Synthesis of fisetin co-crystals with caffeine and nicotinamide using the cooling crystallization technique: biopharmaceutical studies

A fisetin-caffeine co-crystal prepared by using cooling crystallization technology showed a two- and three-fold improvement in the solubility and oral bioavailability of fisetin.

Phytoconstituent based dry powder inhalers as biomedicine for the management of pulmonary diseases

Pulmonary disease represents a major global health issue. They are commonly treated by various synthetic molecules. But, frequent high-dose of oral and injectable drugs may lead to severe side effects and this juncture demands inhaled formulations that facilitate effective drug delivery to the lower airways with negligible side effects. Natural phytoconstituents or phytoalexin (i.e. plant antibiotics) have showed an unique treatment array with minimum side effects and great capability to treat intrapulmonary and extrapulmonary diseases compared to synthetic drugs. Moreover, the progress of disciplines such as nanotechnology, material science and particle engineering allows further improvement of the treatment capability and efficiency. This article review and analyze literatures on inhaled phytoconstituents which were published in the last 10 years. Additionally, it will also offer the researcher with some basic background information for phytoconstituents profile, formulation requirements and drug delivery systems.