Physico-chemical characterization of succinyl chitosan-stabilized liposomes for the oral co-delivery of quercetin and resveratrol

Polymeric liposomes targeting dual transporters for highly efficient oral delivery of paclitaxel

A novel delivery system comprising N-succinic anhydride (N-SAA) and D-fructose co-conjugated chitosan (NSCF)-modified polymeric liposomes (NSCF-PLip) were designed to enhance oral delivery of paclitaxel (PTX) by targeting monocarboxylate transporters (MCT) and glucose transporters (GLUT). The synthesized NSCF was characterised by FT-IR and 1H NMR spectra. The prepared 30.78 % (degree of substitution of N-SAA) NSCF-PTX-PLip were approximately 150 nm in size, with a regular spherical shape, the zeta potential of -25.4 ± 5.13 mv, drug loading of 2.35 % ± 0.05 %, and pH-sensitive and slow-release characteristics. Compared with PTX-Lip, 30.78 % NSCF-PTX-PLip significantly enhanced Caco-2 cellular uptake via co-mediation of MCT and GLUT, showing relatively specific binding of propionic acid and MCT. Notably, the NSCF modification of PTX-Lip had no appreciable influence on their original cellular uptake pathway. The fructose modification of 30.78 % NSC-PTX-PLip significantly increased the concentration after tmax, indicating their continuous and efficient absorption. Compared with PTX-Lip, the 30.78 % NSCF-PTX-PLip resulted in a 2.09-fold extension of MRT, and a 6.06-fold increase of oral bioavailability. It significantly increased tumour drug distribution and tumour growth inhibition rate. These findings confirm that 30.78 % NSCF-PLip offer a potential oral delivery platform for PTX and targeting the dual transporters of MCT and GLUT is an effective strategy for enhancing the intestinal absorption of drugs.

Antimicrobial and Anesthetic Niosomal Formulations Based on Amino Acid-Derived Surfactants

BACKGROUND

This work proposes the development of new vesicular systems based on anesthetic compounds (lidocaine (LID) and capsaicin (CA)) and antimicrobial agents (amino acid-based surfactants from phenylalanine), with a focus on physicochemical characterization and the evaluation of antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties.

METHOD

Phenylalanine surfactants were characterized via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Different niosomal systems based on capsaicin, lidocaine, cationic phenylalanine surfactants, and dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) were characterized in terms of size, polydispersion index (PI), zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency using dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmitted light microscopy (TEM), and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Furthermore, the interaction of the pure compounds used to prepare the niosomal formulations with DPPC monolayers was determined using a Langmuir balance. The antibacterial activity of the vesicular systems and their biocompatibility were evaluated, and molecular docking studies were carried out to obtain information about the mechanism by which these compounds interact with bacteria.

RESULTS

The stability and reduced size of the analyzed niosomal formulations demonstrate their potential in pharmaceutical applications. The nanosystems exhibit promising antimicrobial activity, marking a significant advancement in pharmaceutical delivery systems with dual therapeutic properties. The biocompatibility of some formulations underscores their viability.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed niosomal formulations could constitute an important advance in the pharmaceutical field, offering delivery systems for combined therapies thanks to the pharmacological properties of the individual components.

Liposomes as Carriers of Bioactive Compounds in Human Nutrition

This article provides an overview of the literature data on the role of liposomal structures and encapsulated substances in food technology and human nutrition. The paper briefly describes how liposomes are created and how they encapsulate food ingredients, which can either be individual compounds or plant extracts. Another very interesting application of liposomes is their use as antimicrobial carriers to protect food products from spoilage during storage. The encapsulation of food ingredients in liposomes can increase their bioavailability, which is particularly important for compounds with health-promoting properties but low bioavailability. Particular attention was paid to compounds such as phytosterols, which lower blood cholesterol levels but have very low absorption in the human body. In addition, consumer expectations and regulations for liposomes in food are discussed. To date, no in vivo human studies have been conducted to indicate which encapsulation methods give the best results for gastrointestinal effects and which food-added substances are most stable during food storage and processing. The paper identifies further lines of research that are needed before liposomes can be introduced into food.

Biomacromolecular carriers based hydrophobic natural products for potential cancer therapy

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. It was estimated that 90 % of cancer-related deaths were attributable to the development of multi-drug resistance (MDR) during chemotherapy, which results in ineffective chemotherapy. Hydrophobic natural products plays a pivotal role in the field of cancer therapy, with the potential to reverse MDR in tumor cells, thereby enhancing the efficacy of tumor therapy. However, their targeted delivery is considered a major hurdle in their application. The advent of numerous approaches for encapsulating bioactive ingredients in the nanodelivery systems has improved the stability and targeted delivery of these biomolecules. The manuscript comprehensively analyses the nanodelivery systems of bioactive compounds with potential cancer therapy applications, including liposomes, emulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles (NPs), and polymeric NPs. Then, the advantages and disadvantages of various nanoagents in the treatment of various cancer types are critically discussed. Further, the application of multiple-compbine delivery methods to overcome the limitations of single-delivery have need critically analyzed, which thus could help in the designing nanodrug delivery systems for bioactive compounds in clinical settings. Therefore, the review is timely and important for development of efficient nanodelivery systems involving hydrophobic natural products to improve pharmacokinetic properties for effective cancer treatment.

Construction Strategy of Functionalized Liposomes and Multidimensional Application

Liposomes are widely used in the biological field due to their good biocompatibility and surface modification properties. With the development of biochemistry and material science, many liposome structures and their surface functional components have been modified and optimized one by one, pushing the liposome platform from traditional to functionalized and intelligent, which will better satisfy and expand the needs of scientific research. However, a main limiting factor effecting the efficiency of liposomes is the complicated environmental conditions in the living body. Currently, in order to overcome the above problem, functionalized liposomes have become a very promising strategy. In this paper, binding strategies of liposomes with four main functional elements, namely nucleic acids, antibodies, peptides, and stimuli-responsive motif have been summarized for the first time. In addition, based on the construction characteristics of functionalized liposomes, such as drug-carrying, targeting, long-circulating, and stimulus-responsive properties, a comprehensive overview of their features and respective research progress are presented. Finally, the paper critically presents the limitations of these functionalized liposomes in the current applications and also prospectively suggests the future development directions, aiming to accelerate realization of their industrialization.

Prevention of Hypercholesterolemia with "Liposomes in Microspheres" Composite Carriers: A Promising Approach for Intestinal-Targeted Oral Delivery of Astaxanthin

Cardiovascular diseases are caused by hypercholesterolemia. Astaxanthin (AST) has been reported to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its bioavailability is poor because of low solubility and instability. In order to improve the bioavailability of AST, we developed an intestinal-responsive composite carrier termed as "liposomes in micropheres" incorporating N-succinyl-chitosan (NSC)-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) liposomes that functionalized by neonatal Fc receptors (FcRn) into hydrogels of sodium alginate (SA) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS). In the AST NSC/HSA-PEG liposomes@SA/CMCS microspheres, the AST's encapsulation efficiency (EE) was 96.26% (w/w) and its loading capacity (LC) was 6.47% (w/w). AST NSC/HSA-PEG liposomes had stability in the gastric conditions and achieved long-term release of AST in intestinal conditions. Then, AST NSC/HSA-PEG liposomes@SA/CMCS bind to intestinal epithelial cell targets by the neonatal Fc receptor. In vitro permeation studies show that there was a 4-fold increase of AST NSC/HSA-PEG liposomes@SA/CMCS in AST permeation across the intestinal epithelium. Subsequent in vivo experiments demonstrated that the composite carrier exhibited a remarkable mucoadhesive capacity, allowing for extended intestinal retention of up to 12 h, and it displayed deep penetration through the mucus layer, efficiently entering the intestinal villi epithelial cells, and enhancing the absorption of AST and its bioavailability in vivo. And oral administration of AST NSC/HSA-PEG liposomes@SA/CMCS could effectively prevent hypercholesterolemia caused by a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet (HFHCD). These advancements highlight the potential of NSC/HSA-PEG liposomes@SA/CMCS composite carriers for targeted and oral uptake of hydrophobic bioactives.

A Nano-Based Approach to Deliver Satureja thymbra Essential Oil to the Skin: Formulation and Characterization

Essential oils are well known for their biological properties, making them useful for the treatment of various diseases. However, because of their poor stability and high volatility, their potential cannot be fully exploited. The use of nanoformulations to deliver essential oils can solve these critical issues and amplify their biological activities. We characterized an essential oil from Satureja thymbra via GC-MS and HPLC-DAD to provide qualitative and quantitative data. The essential oil was formulated in phospholipid vesicles which were characterized for size, surface charge, and storage stability. The entrapment efficiency was evaluated as the quantification of the major monoterpenoid phenols via HPLC-DAD. The morphological characterization of the vesicles was carried out via cryo-TEM and SAXS analyses. The essential oil's antioxidant potential was assayed via two colorimetric tests (DPPH• and FRAP) and its cytocompatibility was evaluated in HaCaT skin cell cultures. The results showed that the nanoformulations developed for the loading of S. thymbra essential oil were below 100 nm in size, predominantly unilamellar, stable in storage, and had high entrapment efficiencies. The vesicles also displayed antioxidant properties and high cytocompatibility. These promising findings pave the way for further investigation of the therapeutic potential of S. thymbra nanoformulations upon skin application.

Oral Nanomedicine: Challenges and Opportunities

Compared to injection administration, oral administration is free of discomfort, wound infection, and complications and has a higher compliance rate for patients with diverse diseases. However, oral administration reduces the bioavailability of medicines, especially biologics (e.g., peptides, proteins, and antibodies), due to harsh gastrointestinal biological barriers. In this context, the development and prosperity of nanotechnology have helped improve the bioactivity and oral availability of oral medicines. On this basis, first, the biological barriers to oral administration are discussed, and then oral nanomedicine based on organic and inorganic nanomaterials and their biomedical applications in diverse diseases are reviewed. Finally, the challenges and potential opportunities in the future development of oral nanomedicine, which may provide a vital reference for the eventual clinical transformation and standardized production of oral nanomedicine, are put forward.

Preparation and Characterization of Novel Polyelectrolyte Liposomes Using Chitosan Succinate Layered over Chitosomes: A Potential Strategy for Colon Cancer Treatment

Chitosan succinate is distinguished by its ability to shield the loaded drug from the acidic environment, localize and keep the drug at the colon site, and release the drug over an extended time at basic pH. The current study attempts to develop polyelectrolyte liposomes (PEL), using chitosan and chitosan succinate (CSSC), as a carrier for liposomal-assisted colon target delivery of 5 fluorouracil (5FU). The central composite design was used to obtain an optimized formulation of 5FU-chitosomes. The chitosan-coated liposomes (chitosomes) were prepared by thin lipid film hydration technique. After that, the optimized formulation was coated with CSSC, which has several carboxylic (COOH) groups that produce an anionic charge that interacts with the cation NH2 in chitosan. The prepared 5FU-chitosomes formulations were evaluated for entrapment efficiency % (EE%), particle size, and in vitro drug release. The optimized 5FU-chitosomes formulation was examined for particle size, zeta potential, in vitro release, and mucoadhesive properties in comparison with the equivalent 5FU-liposomes and 5FU-PEL. The prepared 5FU-chitosomes exhibited high EE%, small particle size, low polydispersity index, and prolonged drug release. PEL significantly limited the drug release at acidic pH due to the deprotonation of carboxylate ions in CSSC, which resulted in strong repulsive forces, significant swelling, and prolonged drug release. According to a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, PEL treatment significantly decreased the viability of HT-29 cells. When compared to 5FU-liposome and 5FU-chitosome, the in vivo pharmacokinetics characteristics of 5FU-PEL significantly (p < 0.05) improved. The findings show that PEL enhances 5FU permeability, which permits high drug concentrations to enter cells and inhibits the growth of colon cancer cells. Based on the current research, PEL may be used as a liposomal-assisted colon-specific delivery.

Lipid Nanoparticles Loading Steroidal Alkaloids of Tomatoes Affect Neuroblastoma Cell Viability in an In Vitro Model

Tomato by-products represent a good source of phytochemical compounds with health properties, such as the steroidal glycoalkaloid α-tomatine (α-TM) and its aglycone tomatidine (TD). Both molecules have numerous beneficial properties, such as potential anticancer activity. Unfortunately, their therapeutic application is limited due to stability and bioavailability issues. Therefore, a valid strategy seems to be their encapsulation into Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN). The nanoformulations containing α-TM (α-TM-SLN) and TD (TD-SLN) were prepared by solvent-diffusion technique and subsequently characterized in terms of technological parameters (particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, microscopy, and calorimetric studies). To assess the effect of α-TM and TD on the percentage of cellular viability in Olfactory Ensheathing Cells (OECs), a peculiar glial cell type of the olfactory system used as normal cells, and in SH-SY5Y, a neuroblastoma cancer cell line, an MTT test was performed. In addition, the effects of empty, α-TM-SLN, and TD-SLN were tested. Our results show that the treatment of OECs with blank-SLN, free α-TM (0.25 µg/mL), and TD (0.50 µg/mL) did not induce any significant change in the percentage of cell viability when compared with the control. In contrast, in SH-SY5Y-treated cells, a significant decrease in the percentage of cell viability when compared with the control was found. In particular, the effect appeared more evident when SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to α-TM-SLN and TD-SLN. No significant effect in blank-SLN-treated SH-SY5T cells was observed. Therefore, SLN is a promising approach for the delivery of α-TM and TD.

Carboxymethyl chitosan-quercetin conjugate: A sustainable one-step synthesis and use for food preservation

Bioactive polysaccharide, carboxymethyl chitosan-quercetin (CMCS-q) was prepared by a one-step reaction utilizing Schiff base chemistry. Notably, the presented conjugation method involves neither radical reactions nor auxiliary coupling agents. Physicochemical properties and bioactivity of the modified polymer were studied and compared to those of the pristine carboxymethyl chitosan, CMCS. The modified CMCS-q demonstrated antioxidant activity by TEAC assay and antifungal activity by inhibiting spore germination of plant pathogen Botrytis cynerea. Then, CMCS-q was applied as an active coating on fresh-cut apples. The treatment resulted in enhanced firmness, inhibited browning and improved microbiological quality of the food product. The presented conjugation method allows retaining antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of quercetin moiety in the modified biopolymer. This method can be further used as a platform for binding ketone/aldehyde-containing polyphenols and other natural compounds to form various bioactive polymers.

Preparation of core-shell hordein/pectin nanoparticles as quercetin delivery matrices: Physicochemical properties and colon-specific release analyses

Quercetin (Que) is a hydrophobic flavanol that has the potential to prevent colon diseases. This study aimed to design hordein/pectin nanoparticle as a colon-specific delivery system for quercetin. The encapsulation efficiency, physicochemical stability and release properties of the nanoparticles were estimated. The FTIR and secondary structure analysis indicated that hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions and electrostatic attractions were formed in the quercetin-loaded hordein/pectin nanoparticles (Que-hordein/pectin NPs). In comparison to Que-hordein NPs, Que-hordein/pectin NPs exhibited better colloidal stability (physical, UV light, heating and salt). Furthermore, the release properties studies showed that pectin coating restrained the premature release of Que from hordein NPs in gastric fluid and intestinal fluid. In-vitro release, when the Que-hordein/pectin NPs were exposed to simulated colonic fluid (SCF) for 6 h, quercetin was greatly released from the hordein/pectin NPs (15.29 ± 1.17% - 80.60 ± 1.78%). In-vivo release, the concentration of Que (μg/g) in Que-hordein/pectin NPs was 2.18 times higher than Que-hordein NPs in colon tissue after 6 h of oral administration. This study suggests that Que-hordein/pectin NPs have promising applications in the specific delivery and release of quercetin to the colon.

Effects of N-succinyl-chitosan coating on properties of astaxanthin-loaded PEG-liposomes: Environmental stability, antioxidant/antibacterial activities, and in vitro release

Astaxanthin (AST) has outstanding antioxidant and anti-inflammation bioactivities, but the low biocompatibility and stability limit its application in foods. In this study, N-succinyl-chitosan (NSC)-coated AST polyethylene glycol (PEG)-liposomes were constructed to enhance the biocompatibility, stability, and intestinal-targeted migration of AST. The AST NSC/PEG-liposomes were uniform in size, had larger particles, greater encapsulation efficiency, and better storage, pH, and temperature stability than the AST PEG-liposomes. AST NSC/PEG-liposomes exerted stronger antibacterial and antioxidant activities against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus than AST PEG-liposomes. The NSC coating not only protects AST PEG-liposomes from gastric acid but also prolongs the retention and sustained release of AST NSC/PEG-liposomes depending on the intestinal pH. Moreover, caco-2 cellular uptake studies showed that AST NSC/PEG-liposomes had higher cellular uptake efficiency than AST PEG-liposomes. And AST NSC/PEG-liposomes were taken up by caco-2 cells through clathrin mediated endocytic, macrophage pathways and paracellular transport pathway. These results further proved that AST NSC/PEG-liposomes delayed the release and promoted the intestinal absorption of AST. Hence, AST PEG-liposomes coated with NSC could potentially be used as an efficient delivery system for therapeutic AST.

Trends in Drug Delivery Systems for Natural Bioactive Molecules to Treat Health Disorders: The Importance of Nano-Liposomes

Drug delivery systems are believed to increase pharmaceutical efficacy and the therapeutic index by protecting and stabilizing bioactive molecules, such as protein and peptides, against body fluids' enzymes and/or unsuitable physicochemical conditions while preserving the surrounding healthy tissues from toxicity. Liposomes are biocompatible and biodegradable and do not cause immunogenicity following intravenous or topical administration. Still, their most important characteristic is the ability to load any drug or complex molecule uncommitted to its hydrophobic or hydrophilic character. Selecting lipid components, ratios and thermo-sensitivity is critical to achieve a suitable nano-liposomal formulation. Nano-liposomal surfaces can be tailored to interact successfully with target cells, avoiding undesirable associations with plasma proteins and enhancing their half-life in the bloodstream. Macropinocytosis-dynamin-independent, cell-membrane-cholesterol-dependent processes, clathrin, and caveolae-independent mechanisms are involved in liposome internalization and trafficking within target cells to deliver the loaded drugs to modulate cell function. A successful translation from animal studies to clinical trials is still an important challenge surrounding the approval of new nano-liposomal drugs that have been the focus of investigations. Precision medicine based on the design of functionalized nano-delivery systems bearing highly specific molecules to drive therapies is a promising strategy to treat degenerative diseases.

Curcumin-loaded complex coacervate made of mung bean protein isolate and succinylated chitosan as a novel medium for curcumin encapsulation

A novel complex coacervate based on mung bean protein (MBP) and succinylated chitosan (SC) was developed in order to encapsulate curcumin to enhance its antioxidant and release properties. The optimum pH and MBP/SC ratio for fabrication of the complex coacervate were determined as 5.5 and 3:1, respectively. The MBP/SC complexes exhibited high affinity toward curcumin with encapsulation efficiency of 89.65%. The curcumin-loaded MBP with succinyl chitosan (c-MBP/SC) exhibited antioxidant properties investigated by DPPH and reducing power assays. c-MBP/SC also showed significant photo stability and acceptable controlled release behavior in simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Fluorescence results indicated that curcumin interacted with the hydrophobic areas available in c-MBP/SC. FTIR results showed the successful encapsulation of curcumin in the hydrophobic core of the complex, followed by minor changes in MBP conformation. Analysis of zeta potential revealed that MBP/SC particles were synthesized successfully at the pH value of 5.5 due to conformational changes of MBP. The conformational changes in protein structure were confirmed by Nile Red fluorescence anisotropy. As a result, c-MBP/SC could be considered as a promising carrier for curcumin encapsulation in food formulations with enhanced dispersity characteristic.

Nanocarriers for Active Ingredients of Chinese Medicine (AIFCM) Used in Gastrointestinal Cancer Therapy

Active ingredients of Chinese medicine (AIFCM) are pharmacological substances taken from traditional Chinese medicine that show promise in treating gastrointestinal cancer. Compared with traditional chemotherapeutic drugs, AIFCM have advantages such as multi-target and multi-level treatment of gastrointestinal cancer. Nanocarriers have the following advantages, better bioavailability, passive or active targeting of tumor sites and responsive release of drugs. The use of nanocarriers for delivery of AIFCM in treatment of gastrointestinal cancer, can overcome the disadvantages of some AIFCM, such as insolubility and low bioavailability. In this review, we first outline the background on gastrointestinal cancer, main curative factors and conventional therapeutic approaches. Then, the mechanisms for AIFCM in gastrointestinal cancer therapy are presented in the following four aspects: gene regulation, immune modulation, cellular pathway transduction, and alteration of intestinal flora. Thirdly, preparation of various nanocarriers and results when combining AIFCM in gastrointestinal cancer are presented. Fourth, application of novel targeted nanocarriers and responsive nanocarriers in gastrointestinal tumors is further introduced. Finally, the application of AIFCM in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancer is summarized and prospected, hoping to shed some light on the nanocarrier-bound AIFCM in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancer.

Preparation of modified Jiuzao glutelin isolate with carboxymethyl chitosan by ultrasound-stirring assisted Maillard reaction and its protective effect of loading resveratrol/quercetin in nano-emulsion

Jiuzao glutelin isolate (JGI) was reported to possess interface and functional properties. To enhance the stability and properties of JGI, conjugation between JGI and carboxymethyl chitosan (CTS) through ultrasound-stirring assisted Maillard reaction (UTSA-MR) was investigated and optimized. The changes of molecular distribution, secondary structure, morphology, and amino acid composition of JGI were detected after conjugation with CTS. The solubility, foaming property and stability, viscosity, and thermal stability of four conjugates (CTS-JGI, with weight ratios of 0.5:1, 1:1, 2:1, and 4:1) were significantly increased compared to native JGI. Under the optimal glycation, the conjugate (CTS/JGI, 2:1, w/w; CTS-JGI-2) exhibited the best emulsifying ability and stability against NaCl solution, in vitro antioxidant activity, and cholesterol-lowering ability. CTS-JGI-2 stabilized oil-in-water nano-emulsion improved resveratrol (RES) and quercetin (QUE) encapsulation efficiency (80.96% for RES and 93.13% for QUE) and stability during the simulated digestion process (73.23% for RES and 77.94% for QUE) due to the connection through hydrogen bonds, pi-anion, pi-sigma, and donors between CTS-JGI and RES/QUE. Taken together, the modification of JGI by conjugating with CTS through UTSA-MR could be an excellent method to improve the functional properties of JGI. CTS-JGI-2 is a potential conjugate with functions that can be used to encapsulate functional substances in the stabilized nano-emulsion.

Nanoemulsions Containing Megestrol Acetate: Development, Characterization, and Stability Evaluation

Many active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) are poorly soluble in water and their low oral bioavailability is a major hindrance to their potential use. Megestrol acetate (MGA) is insoluble in water and its oral absorption is limited and considerably affected by food. Nanoemulsions (NEs) can be used as effective oral drug delivery systems where the hydrophobic API is loaded into the oil phase. In this study, MGA-loaded NEs were prepared based on the spontaneous emulsification technique. The effects of different excipients such as ethanol, Tween 80, Lipoid E80, and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) on the NEs characterization were investigated. The experimental results indicated that optimum MGA-loaded NEs (F20) were nanometer-sized droplets (166.9 ± 3.0 nm) with negative zeta potential (-12.2 ± 1.1 mV). The effect of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) on characteristic properties of F20 was also evaluated. On the selected NEs, in vitro dissolution tests and stability studies in various mediums and storage conditions were performed. The encapsulation efficiency of NEs were > 99%. The overall droplet size of F20 and PVP-2 (PVP-coated NEs) remained relatively stable as the pH changed from 1.2 to 6.8. It was determined that F20 and PVP-2 remained stable at 4°C until 12 weeks and had higher cytotoxicity on MCF-7 cells. To conclude, droplet size, surface charge, and stability are important properties for NEs to have sufficient effectiveness. In this study, alternative oral NEs of low-solubility drug MGA were developed considering the above features.

Pelargonidin-3-O-Glucoside Encapsulated Pectin-Chitosan-Nanoliposomes Recovers Palmitic Acid-Induced Hepatocytes Injury

Pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside (Pg) is a well-known anthocyanin derivative possessing potential biological activity. Nonetheless, the bioactivity of Pg is limited due to instability in the physiological environment. Functionalized nanoliposomes using chitosan and/or pectin coating is an excellent carrier system for nanoencapsulation of food bioactive compounds such as Pg. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the protective effect of Pg-loaded pectin–chitosan coated nanoliposomes against palmitic acid (PA)-induced hepatocytes injury in L02 cells. Firstly, Pg-loaded pectin–chitosan coated nanoliposomes were characterized using the DLS, HPLC, TEM, and cellular uptake study in L02 cells. Thereafter, we assayed the protective effect against PA-induced lipotoxicity, ROS and O₂^•− generation, mitochondrial dysfunction (MMP), and GSH depletion. Results showed that Pg-loaded nanoliposomes significantly reduced the PA-induced L02 cells toxicity via suppressing ROS production, O₂^•− generation, MMP collapse, and GSH reduction, whereas the free-Pg samples were not effective. On the contrary, the chitosan and/or pectin coated nanoliposomes showed higher results compared to coating-free nanoliposomes. Altogether, the results of our study ensured that Pg-loaded pectin–chitosan coated nanoliposomes was capable of reducing PA-induced hepatocytes injury. Thus, pectin–chitosan coated nanoliposomes can be useful for hepatocellular delivery of hydrophilic compounds with greater biological activity.

Recent development in fabrication and evaluation of phenolic-dietary fiber composites for potential treatment of colonic diseases

Phenolics have been shown by in vitro and animal studies to have multiple pharmacological effects against various colonic diseases. However, their efficacy against colonic diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases, Crohn's disease, and colorectal cancer, is significantly compromised due to their chemical instability and susceptibility to modification along the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) before reaching the colonic site. Dietary fibers are promising candidates that can form phenolic-dietary fiber composites (PDC) to carry phenolics to the colon, as they are natural polysaccharides that are non-digestible in the upper intestinal tract but can be partially or fully degradable by gut microbiota in the colon, triggering the release at this targeted site. In addition, soluble and fermentable dietary fibers confer additional health benefits as prebiotics when used in the PDC fabrication, and the possibility of synergistic relationship between phenolics and fibers in alleviating the disease conditions. The functionalities of PDC need to be characterized in terms of their particle characteristics, molecular interactions, release profiles in simulated digestion and colonic fermentation to fully understand the metabolic fate and health benefits. This review examines recent advancements regarding the approaches for fabrication, characterization, and evaluation of PDC in in vitro conditions.

Liposomal-Based Formulations: A Path from Basic Research to Temozolomide Delivery Inside Glioblastoma Tissue

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a lethal brain cancer with a very difficult therapeutic approach and ultimately frustrating results. Currently, therapeutic success is mainly limited by the high degree of genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity, the blood brain barrier (BBB), as well as increased drug resistance. Temozolomide (TMZ), a monofunctional alkylating agent, is the first line chemotherapeutic drug for GBM treatment. Yet, the therapeutic efficacy of TMZ suffers from its inability to cross the BBB and very short half-life (~2 h), which requires high doses of this drug for a proper therapeutic effect. Encapsulation in a (nano)carrier is a promising strategy to effectively improve the therapeutic effect of TMZ against GBM. Although research on liposomes as carriers for therapeutic agents is still at an early stage, their integration in GBM treatment has a great potential to advance understanding and treating this disease. In this review, we provide a critical discussion on the preparation methods and physico-chemical properties of liposomes, with a particular emphasis on TMZ-liposomal formulations targeting GBM developed within the last decade. Furthermore, an overview on liposome-based formulations applied to translational oncology and clinical trials formulations in GBM treatment is provided. We emphasize that despite many years of intense research, more careful investigations are still needed to solve the main issues related to the manufacture of reproducible liposomal TMZ formulations for guaranteed translation to the market.

Modern Nanocarriers as a Factor in Increasing the Bioavailability and Pharmacological Activity of Flavonoids

This review is devoted to modern systems of nanocarriers that ensure the targeted delivery of flavonoids to various organs and systems. Flavonoids have wide range of effects on the human body due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antimicrobial, antiplatelet and other types of activity. However, the low bioavailability of flavonoids significantly limits their practical application. To overcome this disadvantage, serious efforts have been made in recent years to develop nanoscale carriers for flavonoids. This is particularly important in view of the known antitumor effect of these compounds, which allows them to target tumor cells without affecting surrounding healthy tissues. Nanocarriers provide increased penetration of biologicals into specific organs in combination with controlled and prolonged release, which markedly improves their effectiveness. This review summarizes data on the use of phytosomes, lipid-based nanoparticles, as well as polymeric and inorganic nanoparticles; their advantages and drawbacks are analyzed; the prospect of their use is discussed that opens new possibilities for the clinical application of flavonoids.

Co-encapsulation of quercetin and resveratrol in zein/carboxymethyl cellulose nanoparticles: characterization, stability and in vitro digestion

Formation and investigation of zein/carboxymethyl cellulose composite nanoparticles to co-deliver quercetin and resveratrol.

Polysaccharide hydrogels regulate macrophage polarization and enhance the anti-tumor efficacy of melanoma

Chemotherapy occupies a prominent position in combination treatments of melanoma. However, the severe systemic side effects and the pro-tumorigenic microenvironment limited its therapeutic efficacy. In the present study, polysaccharide hydrogels (SCOD) were constructed by N-succinyl chitosan and oxidized dextran through Schiff-base formation to deliver doxorubicin (Dox) locally. The gelation time and mechanical properties of SCOD hydrogels could be fine-tuned by varying concentration of precursor solutions. Rheological data revealed that SCOD hydrogels possessed injectable shear-shinning property and remarkable self-healing capability. It also could be degraded by lysozyme widely present in body fluids. Moreover, SCOD hydrogels were readily loaded with Dox in precursor solutions and released drug over 1 week in a pH-dependent manner. The ability of Dox-loaded SCOD hydrogels to inhibit the growth of murine B16 and human A375 melanoma was verified by in vitro assays. Strikingly, Dox-loaded SCOD hydrogels were found to efficiently induce polarization of tumor-associated macrophages towards M1 phenotype that favors an anti-tumorigenic tumor microenvironment. Notably, in vivo experiments demonstrated that locally injected Dox-loaded SCOD hydrogels exhibited excellent anti-tumor activity against B16 melanoma, outperforming Dox at equivalent doses administrated intravenously. Therefore, the injectable and self-healing polysaccharide hydrogels are a promising strategy to improve locoregional control in melanoma.

Recent advances in herbal combination nanomedicine for cancer: delivery technology and therapeutic outcomes

Introduction: The use of herbal compounds in cancer therapy has great potential to promote the efficacy of current cancer therapeutic strategies. Herbal compounds were successfully reported to enhance tumor cells sensitization to the action of chemo-, hormonal- and gene-therapeutic agents via different mechanisms. Herbal ingredients can affect different signaling pathways, reduce the toxic side effects or inhibit the efflux of anticancer drugs.Areas covered: This review will discuss the delivery of herbal compounds with other cancer treatments such as hormonal, small molecule inhibitors and inorganic hybrids to tumor cells. An overview of physicochemical properties of herbal components that require intelligent design of combo-nanomedicines for efficient co-delivery of those herbal-derived and other anticancer agents was discussed. Nanocarriers provide various benefits to overcome the shortcomings of the encapsulated herbal compounds including improved solubility, increased stability and enhanced tumor targeting. Different nanocarrier systems were the focus of this review.Expert opinion: Multifunctional nanocarrier systems encapsulating herbal and different anticancer drugs showed to be a wonderful approach in the treatment of cancer enabling the co-delivery of anticancer drugs with versatile modes of action in an accurate manner in an attempt to enhance the efficacy, benefit from the synergism between the drugs as well as to minimize the development of multi-drug resistance. The main challenge point is the early detection and management of any developed adverse effect.

Innovative Delivery Systems Loaded with Plant Bioactive Ingredients: Formulation Approaches and Applications

Plants constitute a rich source of diverse classes of valuable phytochemicals (e.g., phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids) with proven biological activity (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, etc.). However, factors such as low stability, poor solubility and bioavailability limit their food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical applications. In this regard, a wide range of delivery systems have been developed to increase the stability of plant-derived bioactive compounds upon processing, storage or under gastrointestinal digestion conditions, to enhance their solubility, to mask undesirable flavors as well as to efficiently deliver them to the target tissues where they can exert their biological activity and promote human health. In the present review, the latest advances regarding the design of innovative delivery systems for pure plant bioactive compounds, extracts or essential oils, in order to overcome the above-mentioned challenges, are presented. Moreover, a broad spectrum of applications along with future trends are critically discussed.

Nanosystems as curative platforms for allergic disorder management

Allergy, IgE-mediated inflammatory disorders including allergic rhinitis, asthma, and conjunctivitis, affects billions of people worldwide. Conventional means of allergy management include allergen avoidance, pharmacotherapy, and emerging therapies. Among them, chemotherapeutant intake via oral, intravenous, and intranasal routes is always the most common mean. Although current pharmacotherapy exhibit splendid anti-allergic effects, short in situ retention, low bioavailability, and systemic side effects are inevitable. Nowadays, nanoplatforms have provided alternative therapeutic options to obviate the existing weakness via enhancing the solubility of hydrophobic therapeutic agents, achieving in situ drug accumulation, exhibiting controlled and long-time drug release at lesion areas, and providing multi-functional therapeutic strategies. Herein, we highlight the clinical therapeutic strategies and deal with characteristics of the nanoplatform design in allergy interventions via intratracheal, gastrointestinal, intravenous, and ocular paths. The promising therapeutic utilization in a variety of allergic disorders is discussed, and recent perspectives on the feasible advances of nanoplatforms in allergy management are also exploited.

Stability and bioaccessibility improvement of capsorubin using bovine serum albumin-dextran-gallic acid and sodium alginate

This study attempted to prepare ternary conjugate emulsion from bovine serum albumin (BSA), dextran (DEX) and gallic acid (GA) to improve the stability of conjugate emulsion and the bioaccessibility of capsorubin. The release of capsorubin was further delayed by sodium alginate capsules in the intestinal phase. First, protein formed new functional groups and covalent bonds was analyzed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Next, the stability of the ternary conjugate showed distinct pH correlation and the higher stability near the isoelectric point. Finally, the bioaccessibility of capsorubin embedded in sodium alginate emulsion was higher than that of ternary conjugate emulsion (65% and 34%).

Design of liposomes as drug delivery system for therapeutic applications

Liposomes are spherical vesicles consisting of one or more concentric phospholipid bilayers enclosing an aqueous core. Being both nontoxic and biodegradable, liposomes represent a powerful delivery system for several drugs. They have improved the therapeutic efficacy of drugs through stabilizing compounds, overcoming obstacles to cellular and tissue uptake and increasing drug biodistribution to target sites in vivo, while minimizing systemic toxicity. This review offers an overview of liposomes, thought the exploration of their key fundamentals. Initially, the main design aspects to obtain a successful liposomal formulation were addressed, following the techniques for liposome production and drug loading. Before application, liposomes required an extensive characterization to assurance in vitro and in vivo performance. Thus, several properties to characterize liposomes were explored, such as size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, shape, lamellarity, phase behavior, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro drug release. Topics related with liposomal functionalization and effective targeting strategies were also addressed, as well as stability and some limitations of liposomes. Finally, this review intends to explore the current market liposomes used as a drug delivery system in different therapeutic applications.

A Comprehensive Study on the Antimicrobial Properties of Resveratrol as an Alternative Therapy

Resveratrol is a polyphenolic antioxidant whose possible health benefits include anticarcinogenic, antiaging, and antimicrobial properties that have gained significant attention. The compound is well accepted by individuals and has been commonly used as a nutraceutical in recent decades. Its widespread usage makes it essential to study as a single agent as well as in combination with traditional prescription antibiotics as regards to antimicrobial properties. Resveratrol demonstrates the action of antimicrobials against a remarkable bacterial diversity, viruses, and fungus. This report explains resveratrol as an all-natural antimicrobial representative. It may modify the bacterial virulence qualities resulting in decreased toxic substance production, biofilm inhibition, motility reduction, and quorum sensing disturbance. Moreover, in conjunction with standard antibiotics, resveratrol improves aminoglycoside efficacy versus Staphylococcus aureus, while it antagonizes the deadly function of fluoroquinolones against S. aureus and also Escherichia coli. The present study aimed to thoroughly review and study the antimicrobial potency of resveratrol, expected to help researchers pave the way for solving antimicrobial resistance.

Biopolymer-liposome hybrid systems for controlled delivery of bioactive compounds: Recent advances

Conventional liposomes still face many challenges associated with the poor physical and chemical stability, considerable loss of encapsulated cargo, lack of stimulus responsiveness, and rapid elimination from blood circulation. Integration of versatile functional biopolymers has emerged as an attractive strategy to overcome the limitation of usage of liposomes. This review comprehensively summarizes the most recent studies (2015-2020) and their challenges aiming at the exploration of biopolymer-liposome hybrid systems, including surface-modified liposomes, biopolymer-incorporated liposomes, guest-in-cyclodextrin-in-liposome, liposome-in-hydrogel, liposome-in-film, and liposome-in-nanofiber. The physicochemical principles and key technical information underlying the combined strategies for the fabrication of polymeric liposomes, the advantages and limitations of each of the systems, and the stabilization mechanisms are discussed through various case studies. Special emphasis is directed toward the synergistic efficiencies of biopolymers and phospholipid bilayers on encapsulation, protection, and controlled delivery of bioactives (e.g., vitamins, carotenoids, phenolics, peptides, and other health-related compounds) for the biomedical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and functional food applications. The major challenges, opportunities, and possible further developments for future studies are also highlighted.

Inhibition of growth and metastasis of breast cancer by targeted delivery of 17-hydroxy-jolkinolide B via hyaluronic acid-coated liposomes

Hyaluronic acid (HA)-coated liposomes were designed for the targeted delivery of 17-hydroxy-jolkinolide B (HA-Lip-HJB). HA-Lip-HJB had a particle size of 130.8 ± 1.9 nm, zeta potential of -52.36 ± 1.91 mV, and encapsulation efficiency of 89.2 ± 1.5 %. In vitro cell experiments indicated that modification of HA-Lip-HJB increased its cytotoxicity and cellular uptake via CD44 receptor-mediated endocytosis pathway. Of particular importance is that HA-Lip-HJB suppressed cell migration and invasion by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Moreover, the HA-Lip-HJB displayed notable growth inhibition on tumor spheroids. Furthermore, in vivo tissue distribution and anti-tumor experiments carried on BALB/C mice bearing 4T1 tumor indicated that HA-Lip-HJB had strong tumor targeting and tumor suppression abilities. The results also demonstrated that HA-Lip-HJB inhibited tumor cells migration and colonization on the lung. Therefore, HA-Lip-HJB is a promising formulation for metastatic breast cancer therapy.

Recent Advances in Liposomal Drug Delivery System of Quercetin for Cancer Targeting: A Mechanistic Approach

Quercetin (QT, 3,3',4',5,7-pentahydroxyflavone), is a natural flavonoid with nutritional value and acts as a potential free-radical scavenger (antioxidant). QT has also been explored for its anti-cancer as well as anti-proliferative activities against numerous cancerous cells. Moreover, QT exhibits significant pro-apoptotic activity against tumor cells and is well established to control the growth of different carcinoma cells at various phases of the cell cycle. Hence, it can reduce the burden of human solid cancer and metastasis. Both these activities have been established in a diverse class of human cell lines in-vitro as well as in animal models (in-vivo). Apart from the promising therapeutic activities of QT molecule, their applications have been limited due to some major concerns, including low oral bioavailability and poor aqueous solubility. Also, rapid gastrointestinal digestion of QT seems to be a key barrier for its clinical translations for oral drug delivery in conventional dosage form. Henceforth, to overcome these drawbacks, QT is loaded with liposomal systems, which exhibit promising outcomes in the upregulation of QT by the epithelial system and also improved its targeting at the site of action. Furthermore, Liposomes based Drug Delivery Systems (LDDS) have showed significant therapeutic activity with conjugated drug moiety and exhibit safety, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mitigated toxicity despite having certain limitations associated with physiological and biological barriers. Herein, in this review, we have focused on the mechanism related with the chemotherapeutic activity of QT and also discussed the promising activity of QT-loaded LDDS as a potent chemotherapeutic agent for cancer therapy.

Surface decoration of neohesperidin-loaded nanoliposome using chitosan and pectin for improving stability and controlled release

The aim of this study was to improve the physicochemical stability of neohesperidin (NH) using nanoliposomal encapsulation in association with surface decoration strategy employing chitosan (CH) and pectin (P). Different nanoliposomal systems, i.e. NH-loaded nanoliposome (NH-NL), CH-coated NH-NL (CH-NH-NL), and P-coated CH-NH-NL (P-CH-NH-NL) were characterized through DLS, HPLC, TEM, and FTIR. The results confirmed good encapsulation efficiency (>90%) and successful layer formation with nano-sized and spherical carrier. Both CH-NL and P-CH-NL exhibited better physicochemical stability than NL under storage, thermal, pH, ionic, UV, oxidative, and serum conditions. In vitro mucin adsorption study revealed that CH-NL (60%) was more effective in mucoadhesion followed by P-CH-NL (46%) and NL (41%). Furthermore, P-CH-NL showed better performance in NH retention under different food simulants compared to CH-NH-NL and NH-NL, in which the release was mainly governed by the diffusion process. Thus, the P-CH conjugated nanoliposome could be a promising nano-carrier for neohesperidin.

Ionic liquid-assisted cellulose coating of chitosan hydrogel beads and their application as drug carriers

The present study proposes a simple yet effective method of cellulose coating onto chitosan (CS) hydrogel beads and application thereof as drug carriers. The beads were coated with cellulose dissolved in 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate, an ionic liquid (IL) via a one-pot one-step process. Water molecules present in the CS beads diffused outward upon contact with the cellulose–IL mixture and acted as an anti-solvent. This allowed the surface of the beads to be coated with the regenerated cellulose. The regenerated cellulose was characterized by FE-SEM, FT-IR, and XRD analyses. To test potential application of the cellulose-coated CS hydrogel beads as a drug carrier, verapamil hydrochloride (VRP), used as a model drug, was impregnated into the beads. When the VRP-impregnated beads were immersed in the simulated gastric fluid (pH 1.2), the VRP was released in an almost ideal linear pattern. This easily fabricated cellulose-coated CS beads showed the possibility for application as carriers for drug release control.

Recent Advances in Nanoencapsulation of Phytochemicals to Combat Obesity and Its Comorbidities

An increasing epidemic of obesity has become a serious public health concern primarily because it contributes to pathogenesis of many chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hepatobiliary disease, obstructive sleep apnea, kidney disease, some types of cancer, among others. Consumption of a variety of phytochemicals has emerged as a promising potential for combating obesity and its comorbidities. However, the generally low aqueous solubility, stability, bioavailability, and target specificity of phytochemicals, along with their side-effects and toxicity seen when used at high doses, have restricted their clinical applications. As a solution, phytochemicals can be encapsulated into nanoparticles to increase their stability and solubility, enhance their bioavailability, protect them from premature degradation in the body, prolong their circulation time, and thus enhance their antiobesity activity. In this perspective, we summarize the problems and limitations of the prominent phytochemicals (epigallocatechin gallate, trans-resveratrol, curcumin, and quercetin), the major biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticles, and the efficacy of nanoencapsulated forms of these phytochemicals in combating obesity and its comorbidities.

Oral delivery of natural compounds by phospholipid vesicles

The purpose of this report is to summarize and critically analyze emerging trends in phospholipid vesicles for the oral delivery of natural compounds. Liposomes have long been used as delivery systems, thanks to their ability to incorporate diverse bioactives, their biocompatibility and safety. However, the efficacy of oral liposomes is hampered by their low stability under the harsh conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. Different approaches have been utilized with the aim of improving the stability of liposomes and the payload after oral administration. This report provides an overview on the phospholipid vesicles used for oral delivery of natural compounds, exploring the current strategies to improve their performance by modifying the lipid bilayer composition and assembly or the physical state.