Curcumin-loaded PLA-PEG copolymer nanoparticles for treatment of liver inflammation in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Nanotechnology as a potential treatment for diabetes and its complications: A review

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that causes multiple complications in various organs, such as the kidney, liver and cardiovascular system. These complications are the main causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with diabetes. Nanotechnology offers new opportunities for the therapy of diabetes and its multiple complications through site-specific and precise drug delivery. This review summarizes the various studies demonstrating the potential applications of different nanoparticles in diabetes-associated complications.

METHOD

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus databases, focusing on the role of nanoparticles in the improved delivery of various hypoglycemic agents for the treatment of microvascular and macrovascular diabetic complications.

RESULTS

Numerous studies have shown that nanoparticles, such as nanoliposomes, polymeric micelles, dendrimers and metallic nanoparticles, improve the delivery of various hypoglycemic agents. Moreover, nanoparticles have been found to be safer, with improved pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles.

CONCLUSION

This review outlines the significant role of nanotechnology in diabetes and related complications and its superiority over conventional drug delivery.

Investigating antioxidant effects of hamamelitannin-conjugated zinc oxide nanoparticles on oxidative stress-Induced neurotoxicity in zebrafish larvae model

BACKGROUND

An excessive amount of reactive oxygen species triggers oxidative stress, leading to an imbalance in cellular homeostasis. Antioxidant therapy is an effective tool for lowering the oxidative stress and associated ailments. Recently, green nano-based drug formulations have demonstrated promising antioxidant activity and neutralizing oxidative stress. In this study, a tannin molecule Hamamelitannin (HAM), was utilized to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles HAM-ZnO NPs, to mitigate oxidative stress and associated ailments .

METHODOLOGY

The HAM-ZnO NPs were synthesized and characterized by XRD, SEM, and FTIR. The antioxidant potentials of HAM-ZnO NPs were analyzed by in vitro antioxidant assays. Zebrafish embryos and larvae were used as in-vivo models to assess the toxicity and antioxidant protective mechanism. Hydrogen peroxide (1mM) was employed to induce oxidative stress and treated with HAM-ZnO NPs to study the cognitive impairment and antioxidant enzyme levels. Levels of reactive oxygen species and cell death due to oxidative stress induction were studied by 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate and Acridine orange staining methods. Additionally, expression of Antioxidant genes such as SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSR were studied. .

RESULTS

HAM-ZnO NPs exhibited a spherical morphology and size ranges between 48 and 53 nm. In vitro antioxidant studies revealed the antioxidant properties of HAM-ZnO NPs. Furthermore, in vivo studies indicated that HAM-ZnO NPs don't possess any cytotoxic effects in zebrafish larvae at concentrations between (5-25 µg/ml), The study also observed that HAM-ZnO NPs significantly reduced Hydrogen Peroxide-induced stress and increased antioxidant activity in zebrafish larvae. Also, the antioxidant gene expression was upregulated in the HAM-ZnO NPs zebrafish larvae.

CONCLUSION

Findings in this study showed that HAM-ZnO NPs might be a potential intervention for diseases linked to oxidative stress.

Recent updates in applications of nanomedicine for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis

Over recent decades, nanomedicine has played an important role in the enhancement of therapeutic outcomes compared to those of conventional therapy. At the same time, nanoparticle drug delivery systems offer a significant reduction in side effects of treatments by lowering the off-target biodistribution of the active pharmaceutical ingredients. Cancer nanomedicine represents the most extensively studied nanotechnology application in the field of pharmaceutics and pharmacology since the first nanodrug for cancer treatment, liposomal doxorubicin (Doxil®), has been approved by the FDA. The advancement of cancer nanomedicine and its enormous technological success also included various other target diseases, including hepatic fibrosis. This confirms the versatility of nanomedicine for improving therapeutic activity. In this review, we summarize recent updates of nanomedicine platforms for improving therapeutic efficacy regarding liver fibrosis. We first emphasize the challenges of conventional drugs for penetrating the biological barriers of the liver. After that, we highlight design principles of nanocarriers for achieving improved drug delivery of antifibrosis drugs through passive and active targeting strategies.

Targeting chronic liver diseases: Molecular markers, drug delivery strategies and future perspectives

Chronic liver inflammation, a pervasive global health issue, results in millions of annual deaths due to its progression from fibrosis to the more severe forms of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This insidious condition stems from diverse factors such as obesity, genetic conditions, alcohol abuse, viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and toxic accumulation, manifesting as chronic liver diseases (CLDs) such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, and autoimmune hepatitis. Late detection of CLDs necessitates effective treatments to inhibit and potentially reverse disease progression. However, current therapies exhibit limitations in consistency and safety. A potential breakthrough lies in nanoparticle-based drug delivery strategies, offering targeted delivery to specific liver cell types, such as hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and hepatic stellate cells. This review explores molecular targets for CLD treatment, ongoing clinical trials, recent advances in nanoparticle-based drug delivery, and the future outlook of this research field. Early intervention is crucial for chronic liver disease. Having a comprehensive understanding of current treatments, molecular biomarkers and novel nanoparticle-based drug delivery strategies can have enormous impact in guiding future strategies for the prevention and treatment of CLDs.

PEGose Block Poly(lactic acid) Nanoparticles for Cargo Delivery

Hydrophilic polymers have found ubiquitous use in drug delivery and novel polymer materials to advance drug delivery systems are highly sought after. Herein, an amylose mimic (PEGose) was combined with poly(lactic acid) (PLA) in an amphiphilic block copolymer to form PEG-free nanoparticles as an alternative to PEG-based nanomedicines. The block copolymer self-assembled into 150-200 nm particles with a narrow dispersity in aqueous environment. The formed nanoparticles were capable of encapsulation, the sustained release of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic dyes. Moreover, the nanoparticles were found to be remarkably stable and had a very low cytotoxicity and a high propensity to penetrate cells. These results highlight the potential of PEGose-b-PLA to be used in drug delivery with a new hydrophilic building block.

Nanoparticles for Creating a Strategy to Stimulate Liver Regeneration

Presently, there is a need in the developing new approaches to stimulate liver regeneration, which would make its recovery more effective after resection. Application of nanoparticles, loaded with small bioactive molecules, with their targeted delivery into the liver is a promising approach. The aim of the investigation is to study the interaction of nanoparticles with various types of hepatic cells on the models of liver slices and primary hepatic cell cultures using the methods of multiphoton microscopy with fluorescence lifetime imaging.

Materials and Methods

Nanoparticles have been synthetized from polylactide (PLA), gold (Au), and silicon (SiO2), and characterized using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. These types of particles were labeled with a fluorescent Cy5 dye for their visualization. Liver slices and a primary hepatocyte culture were used as models for biological testing of nanoparticles. Biodistribution of the nanoparticles in the tissue and cells, their cytotoxicity, and the effect on the cell metabolism were assessed using optical bioimaging methods.

Results

The silicon nanoparticles are accumulated mainly by macrophages, which generate reactive oxygen species in a large amount and impair the native metabolic state of hepatocytes. The gold nanoparticles accumulate in all types of the liver cells but possess a marked toxic effect, which is indicated by the appearance of necrotic and apoptotic cells and a sharp change in the hepatocyte metabolic state. The polylactide nanoparticles accumulate most effectively in the liver cells, preferably in hepatocytes, do not change their native metabolic state, making this type of nanoparticles most promising for creating the bioactive molecule delivery systems to stimulate liver regeneration.

Multiple nanotechnological approaches using natural compounds for diabetes management

Objectives

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a long-standing and non-transmissible endocrine disease that generates significant clinical issues and currently affects approximately 400 million people worldwide. The aim of the present review was to analyze the most relevant and recent studies that focused on the potential application of plant extracts and phytocompounds in nanotechnology for the treatment of T2DM.

Methods

Various databases were examined, including Springer Link, Google Scholar, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, and Science Direct. The search focused on discovering the potential application of nanoparticulate technologies in enhancing drug delivery of phytocompounds for the mentioned condition.

Results

Several drug delivery systems have been considered, that aimed to reduce adverse effects, while enhancing the efficiency of oral antidiabetic medications. Plant-based nanoformulations have been highlighted as an innovative approach for DM treatment due to their eco-friendly and cost-effective synthesis methods. Their benefits include targeted action, enhanced availability, stability, and reduced dosage frequency.

Conclusions

Nanomedicine has opened new opportunities for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of DM. The use of nanomaterials has demonstrated improved outcomes for both T1DM and T2DM. Notably, flavonoids, including substances such as quercetin, naringenin and myricitrin, have been recognized for their enhanced efficacy when delivered through novel nanotechnologies in preventing T2DM onset and associated complications. The perspectives on the addressed subject point to the development of more nanostructured phytocompounds with improved bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy.

Litchi pulp-derived gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) extract counteracts liver inflammation induced by litchi thaumatin-like protein

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the predominant amino acid in litchi pulp, known for its neuroregulatory effects and anti-inflammatory properties. Although previous research has highlighted the pro-inflammatory characteristics of litchi thaumatin-like protein (LcTLP), interplay between GABA and LcTLP in relation to inflammation remains unclear. This study aims to explore the hepatoprotective effects of the litchi pulp-derived GABA extract (LGE) against LcTLP-induced liver inflammation in mice and LO2 cells. In vivo experiments demonstrated that LGE significantly reduced the levels of aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase, and protected the liver against infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and histological injury induced by LcTLP. Pro-inflammatory cytokines including interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α were also diminished by LGE. The LGE appeared to modulate the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway to exert its anti-inflammatory effects, as evidenced by a reduction of 47%, 35%, and 31% in phosphorylated p38, JNK, and ERK expressions, respectively, in the liver of the high-dose LGE group. Additionally, LGE effectively improved the translocation of gut microbiota by modulating its microbiological composition and abundance. In vitro studies have shown that LGE effectively counteracts the increase in reactive oxygen species, calcium ions, and pro-inflammatory cytokines induced by LcTLP. These findings may offer new perspectives on the health benefits and safety of litchi consumption.

Advances in Nanocarrier Systems for Overcoming Formulation Challenges of Curcumin: Current Insights

Curcumin, an organic phenolic molecule that is extracted from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa Linn, has undergone extensive evaluation for its diverse biological activities in both animals and humans. Despite its favorable characteristics, curcumin encounters various formulation challenges and stability issues that can be effectively addressed through the application of nanotechnology. Nano-based techniques specifically focused on enhancing solubility, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy while mitigating toxicity, have been explored for curcumin. This review systematically presents information on the improvement of curcumin's beneficial properties when incorporated, either individually or in conjunction with other drugs, into diverse nanosystems such as liposomes, nanoemulsions, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, polymeric nanoparticles, solid-lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers. Additionally, the review examines ongoing clinical trials and recently granted patents, offering a thorough overview of the dynamic landscape in curcumin delivery. Researchers are currently exploring nanocarriers with crucial features such as surface modification, substantial loading capacity, biodegradability, compatibility, and autonomous targeting specificity and selectivity. Nevertheless, the utilization of nanocarriers for curcumin delivery is still in its initial phases, with regulatory approval pending and persistent safety concerns surrounding their use.

Nanoencapsulated Curcumin Mitigates Liver Injury and Drug-Metabolizing Enzymes Induction in Diclofenac-Treated Mice

Curcumin (CUR) is a natural product with known anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties. The aim of this study was to formulate CUR into a polymeric nanoparticle (NP) formulation and examine its potential hepatoprotective activity in an animal model of diclofenac (DIC)-induced hepatotoxicity. CUR was loaded into polymeric NPs composed of poly(ethylene glycol)-polycaprolactone (PEG-PCL). The optimal CUR NPs were evaluated against DIC-induced hepatotoxicity in mice, by studying the histopathological changes and gene expression of drug-metabolizing cyp450 (cyp2c29 and cyp2d9) and ugt (ugt2b1) genes in the livers of the animals. The optimal NPs were around 67 nm in diameter with more than 80% loading efficiency and sustained release. Histological findings of mice livers revealed that CUR NPs exhibited a superior hepatoprotective effect compared to free CUR, and both groups reduced DIC-mediated liver tissue injury. While treatment with DIC alone or with CUR and CUR NPs had no effect on cyp2c29 gene expression, cyp2d9 and ugt2b1 genes were upregulated in the DIC-treated group, and this effect was reversed by CUR both as a free drug and as CUR NPs. Our findings present a promising application for nanoencapsulated CUR in the treatment of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-induced liver injury and the associated dysregulation in the expression of hepatic drug-metabolizing enzymes.

The Antidiabetic Mechanisms of Hesperidin: Hesperidin Nanocarriers as Promising Therapeutic Options for Diabetes

A natural flavonoid with exceptional medicinal capabilities, hesperidin, has shown encouraging results in the treatment of diabetes. Thoughts are still being held on the particular processes through which hesperidin exerts its anti-diabetic effects. This work clarifies the complex antidiabetic mechanisms of hesperidin by investigating the molecular pathways involved in glucose homeostasis, insulin signaling, and oxidative stress control. Additionally, the article explores the newly developing field of nanocarrier-based systems as a prospective means of boosting the therapeutic efficiency of hesperidin in the treatment of diabetes. This is because there are difficulties connected with the efficient delivery of hesperidin. These cutting-edge platforms show enormous potential for changing diabetes therapy by utilizing the benefits of nanocarriers, such as enhanced solubility, stability, and targeted delivery. In conclusion, our comprehensive review emphasizes the antidiabetic potential of hesperidin and underscores the intriguing possibilities provided by hesperidin nanocarriers in the search for more effective and individualized diabetes therapies.

A Comprehensive Review on Prospects of Polymeric Nanoparticles for Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus: Receptors-Ligands, In vitro & In vivo Studies

As per International Diabetes Federation Report 2022, worldwide diabetes mellitus (DM) caused 6.7M moralities and ~537M adults suffering from diabetes mellitus. It is a chronic condition due to β-cell destruction or insulin resistance that leads to insulin deficiency. This review discusses Type-1 DM and Type-2 DM pathophysiology in detail, with challenges in management and treatment. The toxicity issues of conventional drugs and insulin injections are complex to manage. Thus, there is a need for technological intervention. In recent years, nanotechnology has found a fruitful advancement of novel drug delivery systems that might potentially increase the efficacy of anti-diabetic drugs. Amongst nano-formulations, polymeric nanoparticles have been studied to enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of anti-diabetic drugs and insulin. In the present review, we summarized polymeric nanoparticles with different polymers utilized to deliver anti-diabetic drugs with in vitro and in vivo studies. Furthermore, this review also includes the role of receptors and ligands in diabetes mellitus and the utilization of receptor-ligand interaction to develop targeted nanoparticles. Additionally, we discussed the utility of nanoparticles for the delivery of phytoconstituents which aids in protecting the oxidative stress generated during diabetes mellitus. Atlast, this article also comprises of numerous patents that have been filed or granted for the delivery of antidiabetic and anticancer molecules for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and pancreatic cancer.

Therapeutic application of natural compounds for skeletal muscle-associated metabolic disorders: A review on diabetes perspective

Skeletal muscle (SM) plays a vital role in energy and glucose metabolism by regulating insulin sensitivity, glucose uptake, and blood glucose homeostasis. Impaired SM metabolism is strongly linked to several diseases, particularly type 2 diabetes (T2D). Insulin resistance in SM may result from the impaired activities of insulin receptor tyrosine kinase, insulin receptor substrate 1, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, and AKT pathways. This review briefly discusses SM myogenesis and the critical roles that SM plays in insulin resistance and T2D. The pharmacological targets of T2D which are associated with SM metabolism, such as DPP4, PTB1B, SGLT, PPARγ, and GLP-1R, and their potential modulators/inhibitors, especially natural compounds, are discussed in detail. This review highlights the significance of SM in metabolic disorders and the therapeutic potential of natural compounds in targeting SM-associated T2D targets. It may provide novel insights for the future development of anti-diabetic drug therapies. We believe that scientists working on T2D therapies will benefit from this review by enhancing their knowledge and updating their understanding of the subject.

Silver Nanoparticles Decorated with Curcumin Enhance the Efficacy of Metformin in Diabetic Rats via Suppression of Hepatotoxicity

Hepatotoxicity is one of the significant side effects of chronic diabetes mellitus (DM) besides nephrotoxicity and pancreatitis. The management of this disease is much dependent on the restoration of the liver to its maximum functionality, as it is the central metabolic organ that gets severely affected during chronic diabetes. The present study investigates if the silver nanoparticles decorated with curcumin (AgNP-Cur) can enhance the efficacy of metformin (a conventional antidiabetic drug) by countering the drug-induced hepatoxicity. Swiss albino rats were categorized into six treatment groups (n = 6): control (group I without any treatment), the remaining five groups (group II, IV, V, VI) were DM-induced by streptozocin. Group II was untreated diabetic positive control, whereas groups III was administered with AgNP-cur (5 mg/kg). Diabetic group IV treated with metformin while V and VI were treated with metformin in a combination of the two doses of NPs (5 and 10 mg/kg) according to the treatment schedule. Biochemical and histological analysis of blood and liver samples were conducted after the treatment. The groups V and VI treated with the combination exhibited remarkable improvement in fasting glucose, lipid profile (HDL and cholesterol), liver function tests (AST, ALT), toxicity markers (GGT, GST and LDH), and redox markers (GSH, MDA and CAT) in comparison to group II in most of the parameters. Histological evaluation and comet assay further consolidate these biochemical results, pleading the restoration of the cellular structure of the target tissues and their nuclear DNA. Therefore, the present study shows that the NPs can enhance the anti-diabetic action by suppression of the drug-mediated hepatoxicity via relieving from oxidative stress, toxic burden and inflammation.

Synthesis approaches of amphiphilic copolymers for spherical micelle preparation: application in drug delivery

The formation of polymeric micelles in aqueous environments through the self-assembly of amphiphilic polymers can provide a versatile platform to increase the solubility and permeability of hydrophobic drugs and pave the way for their administration. In comparison to various self-assembly-based vehicles, polymeric micelles commonly have a smaller size, spherical morphology, and simpler scale up process. The use of polymer-based micelles for the encapsulation and carrying of therapeutics to the site of action triggered a line of research on the synthesis of various amphiphilic polymers in the past few decades. The extended knowledge on polymers includes biocompatible smart amphiphilic copolymers for the formation of micelles, therapeutics loading and response to external stimuli, micelles with a tunable drug release pattern, etc. Different strategies such as ring-opening polymerization, atom transfer radical polymerization, reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer, nitroxide mediated polymerization, and a combination of these methods were employed to synthesize copolymers with diverse compositions and topologies with the proficiency of self-assembly into well-defined micellar structures. The current review provides a summary of the important polymerization techniques and recent achievements in the field of drug delivery using micellar systems. This review proposes new visions for the design and synthesis of innovative potent amphiphilic polymers in order to benefit from their application in drug delivery fields.

Exploring mesoporous silica nanoparticles as oral insulin carriers: In-silico and in vivo evaluation

The advancements in nanoscience have brought attention to the potential of utilizing nanoparticles as carriers for oral insulin administration. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of synthesized polymeric mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) as carriers for oral insulin and their interactions with insulin and IR through in-silico docking. Diabetic rats were treated with various MSN samples, including pure MSN, Amin-grafted MSN/PEG/Insulin (AMPI), Al-grafted MSN/PEG/Insulin (AlMPI), Zinc-grafted MSN/PEG/Insulin (ZNPI), and Co-grafted MSN/PEG/Insulin (CMPI). The nanocomposites were synthesized using a hybrid organic-inorganic method involving MSNs, graphene oxide, and insulin. Characterization of the nanocomposites was conducted using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In vivo tests included the examination of blood glucose levels and histopathological parameters of the liver and pancreas in type 1 diabetic rats. The MSN family demonstrated a significant reduction in blood glucose levels compared to the diabetic control group (p < 0.001). The synthesized nanocomposites exhibited safety, non-toxicity, fast operation, self-repairing pancreas, cost-effectiveness, and high efficiency in the oral insulin delivery system. In the in-silico study, Zn-grafted MSN, Co-grafted MSN, and Al-grafted MSN were selected. Docking results revealed strong interactions between MSN compounds and insulin and IR, characterized by the formation of hydrogen bonds and high binding energy. Notably, Co-grafted MSN showed the highest docking scores of -308.171 kcal/mol and -337.608 kcal/mol to insulin and IR, respectively. These findings demonstrate the potential of polymeric MSN as effective carriers for oral insulin, offering promising prospects for diabetes treatment.

Alternations in interleukin-1β and nuclear factor kappa beta activity (NF-kB) in rat liver due to the co-exposure of Cadmium and Arsenic: Protective role of curcumin

Cadmium chloride (Cd) and sodium arsenite (As) are two prominent examples of non-biodegradable substances that accumulate in ecosystems, pose a serious risk to human health and are not biodegradable. Although the toxicity caused by individual use of Cd and As is known, the toxicity of combined use (Cd+As) to mammals is poorly understood. The present study aims to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of curcumin (CUR), a naturally occurring bioactive component isolated from the root stem of Curcuma longa Linn., in preventing liver damage caused by a Cd+As mixture. A group of 30 Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to intraperitoneal administration of Cd+As (0.44 mg/kg+5.55 mg/kg i.p.) and CUR (100 or 200 mg/kg) for a period of 14 days. The experimental results showed that the animals treated with Cd+As exhibited changes in liver biochemical parameters, inflammation and oxidative stress at the end of the experiment. Administration of CUR significantly reduced inflammation, oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in the Cd+As plus CUR groups compared to the Cd+As group. Furthermore, histological examination of the liver tissue showed that administration of CUR had led to a significant reduction in the liver damage observed in the Cd+As group. The present study provides scientific evidence for the protective effects of CUR against lipid peroxidation, inflammation, oxidative stress and liver damage induced by Cd+As in the liver of rats. The results of our in vivo experiments were confirmed by those of our molecular modelling studies, which showed that CUR can enhance the diminished antioxidant capacity caused by Cd+As.

Recent advances in curcumin-based nanoformulations in diabetes

Diabetes is predicted to affect 700 million people by the year 2045. Despite the potential benefits for diabetics, curcumin's low bioavailability significantly reduces its utility. However, newer formulation methods of decreasing particle size, such as through nanotechnological advances, may improve curcumin's bioavailability and cell-absorption properties. Various curcumin nanoformulations such as nanofibers, nanoparticles-like nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), Solid Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (S-SNEDDS), and nanohydrogels have been evaluated. These studies reported increased bioavailability of nanoformulated curcumin compared to free curcumin. Here, we provide a detailed review of the antidiabetic effects of nanocurcumin compounds and subsequent effects on diabetic complications. Overall, various nanocurcumin formulations highly increase curcumin water-solubility and bioavailability, and these safe formulations can positively affect managing some diabetes-related manifestations and complications. Moreover, nanocurcumin efficacy in various diabetes complications is discussed. These complications included inflammation, neuropathy, depression, anxiety, keratopathy, cataract, cardiomyopathy, myocardial infarction (MI), nephropathy, erectile dysfunction, and diabetic wound. Moreover, several nanocurcumin formulations improved wound healing in the diabetic. However, few studies have been performed in humans, and most results have been reported from cellular and animal studies. Therefore, more human studies are needed to prove the antidiabetic effects of nanocurcumin.

Fabrication of a curcumin encapsulated bioengineered nano-cocktail formulation for stimuli-responsive targeted therapeutic delivery to enhance anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-bacterial properties in sepsis management

This study aimed to fabricate an eco-friendly functionalized chitosan (CS) nanocarrier to establish a pH-responsive drug delivery system for the treatment of sepsis. Curcumin (Cur) and cerium oxide (CeO₂) were loaded onto an octenylsuccinic anhydride (OSA)-functionalized CS nanoformulation (Cur@Ce/OCS) to achieve an effective nanocarrier (NC) for sepsis treatment. The physicochemical characteristics of the developed nanocarriers were determined using various characterization techniques. The developed CeO₂-OCS nanoformulation has been showed effective anti-bacterial activity (∼97%) against G⁺ and G^- bacterial pathogens, and also have improved drug loading (94% ± 2), and encapsulation efficiency (89.8% ± 1.5), with uniform spherical particles having an average diameter of between 100 and 150 nm. The in vivo experimental results establish that Cur-loaded Ce/OCS NPs could have enhanced therapeutic potential against lung infection model by reducing bacterial burden and extensively decreasing inflammatory responses in sepsis model. Additionally, we determined the in vivo biosafety of the nanoformulations by histological observation of different mouse organs (heart, liver, spleen, and kidney), and observed no signs of toxicity in the treatment groups. The findings of this study clearly demonstrate the therapeutic potential of pH-sensitive nanoplatforms in the management of infectious sepsis.

Polymeric Nanoparticles for Delivery of Natural Bioactive Agents: Recent Advances and Challenges

In the last few decades, several natural bioactive agents have been widely utilized in the treatment and prevention of many diseases owing to their unique and versatile therapeutic effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and neuroprotective action. However, their poor aqueous solubility, poor bioavailability, low GIT stability, extensive metabolism as well as short duration of action are the most shortfalls hampering their biomedical/pharmaceutical applications. Different drug delivery platforms have developed in this regard, and a captivating tool of this has been the fabrication of nanocarriers. In particular, polymeric nanoparticles were reported to offer proficient delivery of various natural bioactive agents with good entrapment potential and stability, an efficiently controlled release, improved bioavailability, and fascinating therapeutic efficacy. In addition, surface decoration and polymer functionalization have opened the door to improving the characteristics of polymeric nanoparticles and alleviating the reported toxicity. Herein, a review of the state of knowledge on polymeric nanoparticles loaded with natural bioactive agents is presented. The review focuses on frequently used polymeric materials and their corresponding methods of fabrication, the needs of such systems for natural bioactive agents, polymeric nanoparticles loaded with natural bioactive agents in the literature, and the potential role of polymer functionalization, hybrid systems, and stimuli-responsive systems in overcoming most of the system drawbacks. This exploration may offer a thorough idea of viewing the polymeric nanoparticles as a potential candidate for the delivery of natural bioactive agents as well as the challenges and the combating tools used to overcome any hurdles.

Modulating Inflammation-Mediated Diseases via Natural Phenolic Compounds Loaded in Nanocarrier Systems

The global increase and prevalence of inflammatory-mediated diseases have been a great menace to human welfare. Several works have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory potentials of natural polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoid derivatives (EGCG, rutin, apigenin, naringenin) and phenolic acids (GA, CA, etc.), among others (resveratrol, curcumin, etc.). In order to improve the stability and bioavailability of these natural polyphenolic compounds, their recent loading applications in both organic (liposomes, micelles, dendrimers, etc.) and inorganic (mesoporous silica, heavy metals, etc.) nanocarrier technologies are being employed. A great number of studies have highlighted that, apart from improving their stability and bioavailability, nanocarrier systems also enhance their target delivery, while reducing drug toxicity and adverse effects. This review article, therefore, covers the recent advances in the drug delivery of anti-inflammatory agents loaded with natural polyphenolics by the application of both organic and inorganic nanocarriers. Even though nanocarrier technology offers a variety of possible anti-inflammatory advantages to naturally occurring polyphenols, the complexes' inherent properties and mechanisms of action have not yet been fully investigated. Thus, expanding the quest on novel natural polyphenolic-loaded delivery systems, together with the optimization of complexes' activity toward inflammation, will be a new direction of future efforts.

Smart PEG-Block-PLA/PLA Nanosystems: Impact of the Characteristics of the Polymer Blend on the Redox Responsiveness

Nanocarriers (NCs) were designed from three polymer blends (B1, B2 and B3) and investigated as smart drug delivery systems (SDDS). The blends are composed of a "smart" copolymer, where methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(lactic acid) are connected via a redox-responsive disulfide bond (mPEG-SS-PLA), and of a "conventional" polymer, poly(lactic acid) (PLA). They differ by mPEG-SS-PLA/PLA ratio and PLA molecular weight. Nanoprecipitation was used to prepare NCs. Three concentrations were tested, and fluorescent dye Nile red (NR) was used as a model payload. The results show that the characteristics of the NCs, such as size and drug release kinetics, are influenced by the type of blend and the concentration used during the nanoprecipitation process. The more redox-responsive blend was B2 (ratio 1:3, PLA 5 kDa) at 16 mg/mL: the quantity of NR released was tripled upon 24 h of incubation in a reducing medium. This study reveals that the amount of disulfide bonds present in a NC is not the only parameter to be considered to design an SDDS. The stability of the SDDS in a presumably non-stimulating environment is also important to limit uncontrolled release during storage or in the body before the biological target is reached.

Nano-Nutraceuticals for Health: Principles and Applications

The use of nanotechnological products is increasing steadily. In this scenario, the application of nanotechnology in food science and as a technological platform is a reality. Among the several applications, the main use of this technology is for the development of foods and nutraceuticals with higher bioavailability, lower toxicity, and better sustainability. In the health field, nano-nutraceuticals are being used as supplementary products to treat an increasing number of diseases. This review summarizes the main concepts and applications of nano-nutraceuticals for health, with special focus on treating cancer and inflammation.

Graphical abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43450-022-00338-7.

The Trend of Organic Based Nanoparticles in the Treatment of Diabetes and Its Perspectives

Diabetes is an untreatable metabolic disorder characterized by alteration in blood sugar homeostasis, with submucosal insulin therapy being the primary treatment option. This route of drug administration is attributed to low patient comfort due to the risk of pain, distress, and local inflammation/infections. Nanoparticles have indeed been suggested as insulin carriers to allow the drug to be administered via less invasive routes other than injection, such as orally or nasally. The organic-based nanoparticles can be derived from various organic materials (for instance, polysaccharides, lipids, and so on) and thus are prevalently used to enhance the physical and chemical consistency of loaded bioactive compounds (drug) and thus their bioavailability. This review presents various forms of organic nanoparticles (for example, chitosan, dextron, gums, nanoemulsion, alginate, and so on) for enhanced hypoglycemic drug delivery relative to traditional therapies.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin transdermal gel in an IL-10 knockout mouse model of inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel diseases are a group of inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Their prevalence is still low in Brazil, but the incidence is increasing annually. A variety of compounds present in Curcuma longa L., particularly curcumin, have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and aid in the prevention of associated diseases. This study aimed to assess the effect of curcumin transdermal gel on oxidative stress and intestinal inflammation in IL-10 knockout mice. Female mice were divided into four groups: a control group (C0) treated with vehicle and three experimental groups treated with transdermal gel containing 50 (C50), 75 (C75), and 100 (C100) mg curcumin kg-1 body weight. Colon malondialdehyde concentrations were lower in C50 and C75 groups. C100 treatment led to reduced catalase activity in the small intestine, whereas C50, C75, and C100 treatments resulted in decreased catalase activity in the colon. In contrast, superoxide dismutase activity increased in the small intestine of C50 and C75 mice and decreased in the colon of C50, C75, and C100 mice. Glutathione S-transferase activity increased in the small intestine and decreased in the colon of C75 animals. These findings suggest that curcumin transdermal gel exerts a protective effect against oxidative stress.

Surface Design Options in Polymer- and Lipid-Based siRNA Nanoparticles Using Antibodies

The mechanism of RNA interference (RNAi) could represent a breakthrough in the therapy of all diseases that arise from a gene defect or require the inhibition of a specific gene expression. In particular, small interfering RNA (siRNA) offers an attractive opportunity to achieve a new milestone in the therapy of human diseases. The limitations of siRNA, such as poor stability, inefficient cell uptake, and undesired immune activation, as well as the inability to specifically reach the target tissue in the body, can be overcome by further developments in the field of nanoparticulate drug delivery. Therefore, types of surface modified siRNA nanoparticles are presented and illustrate how a more efficient and safer distribution of siRNA at the target site is possible by modifying the surface properties of nanoparticles with antibodies. However, the development of such efficient and safe delivery strategies is currently still a major challenge. In consideration of that, this review article aims to demonstrate the function and targeted delivery of siRNA nanoparticles, focusing on the surface modification via antibodies, various lipid- and polymer-components, and the therapeutic effects of these delivery systems.

Free radical biology in neurological manifestations: mechanisms to therapeutics interventions

Recent advancements and growing attention about free radicals (ROS) and redox signaling enable the scientific fraternity to consider their involvement in the pathophysiology of inflammatory diseases, metabolic disorders, and neurological defects. Free radicals increase the concentration of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in the biological system through different endogenous sources and thus increased the overall oxidative stress. An increase in oxidative stress causes cell death through different signaling mechanisms such as mitochondrial impairment, cell-cycle arrest, DNA damage response, inflammation, negative regulation of protein, and lipid peroxidation. Thus, an appropriate balance between free radicals and antioxidants becomes crucial to maintain physiological function. Since the 1brain requires high oxygen for its functioning, it is highly vulnerable to free radical generation and enhanced ROS in the brain adversely affects axonal regeneration and synaptic plasticity, which results in neuronal cell death. In addition, increased ROS in the brain alters various signaling pathways such as apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation and microglial activation, DNA damage response, and cell-cycle arrest, leading to memory and learning defects. Mounting evidence suggests the potential involvement of micro-RNAs, circular-RNAs, natural and dietary compounds, synthetic inhibitors, and heat-shock proteins as therapeutic agents to combat neurological diseases. Herein, we explain the mechanism of free radical generation and its role in mitochondrial, protein, and lipid peroxidation biology. Further, we discuss the negative role of free radicals in synaptic plasticity and axonal regeneration through the modulation of various signaling molecules and also in the involvement of free radicals in various neurological diseases and their potential therapeutic approaches. The primary cause of free radical generation is drug overdosing, industrial air pollution, toxic heavy metals, ionizing radiation, smoking, alcohol, pesticides, and ultraviolet radiation. Excessive generation of free radicals inside the cell R1Q1 increases reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, which causes oxidative damage. An increase in oxidative damage alters different cellular pathways and processes such as mitochondrial impairment, DNA damage response, cell cycle arrest, and inflammatory response, leading to pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative disease other neurological defects.

Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging Nanomedicine for the Treatment of Ischemic Heart Disease

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been shown to play key roles in the progression of diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia, which are independent risk factors that lead to atherosclerosis and the development of IHD. Engineered biomaterial-based nanomedicines are under extensive investigation and exploration, serving as smart and multifunctional nanocarriers for synergistic therapeutic effect. Capitalizing on cell/molecule-targeting drug delivery, nanomedicines present enhanced specificity and safety with favorable pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Herein, the roles of ROS in both IHD and its risk factors are discussed, highlighting cardiovascular medications that have antioxidant properties, and summarizing the advantages, properties, and recent achievements of nanomedicines that have ROS scavenging capacity for the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, ischemia/reperfusion, and myocardial infarction. Finally, the current challenges of nanomedicines for ROS-scavenging treatment of IHD and possible future directions are discussed from a clinical perspective.

Demystifying phytoconstituent-derived nanomedicines in their immunoregulatory and therapeutic roles in inflammatory diseases

In the past decades, phytoconstituents have appeared as critical mediators for immune regulations among various diseases, both in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. These bioactive molecules, showing a broad range of biological functions, would hold tremendous promise for developing new therapeutics. The discovery of phytoconstituents' capability of functionally regulating immune cells and associating cytokines, suppressing systemic inflammation, and remodeling immunity have rapidly promoted the idea of their employment as anti-inflammatory agents. In this review, we discuss various roles of phyto-derived medicines in the field of inflammatory diseases, including chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and acute inflammatory disease such as COVID-19. Nevertheless, traditional phyto-derived medicines often concurred with their clinical administration limitations, such as their lack of cell specificity, inefficient cytoplasmic delivery, and rapid clearance by the immune system. As alternatives, phyto-derived nano-approaches may provide significant benefits. Both unmodified and engineered nanocarriers present the potential to serve as phytoconstituent delivery systems to improve therapeutic physio-chemical properties and pharmacokinetic profiles. Thus, the development of phytoconstituents' nano-delivery designs, their new and perspective approaches for therapeutical applications are elaborated herein.

The Effect of Nano-chitosan and Nano-curcumin on Radiated Parotid Glands of Albino Rats: Comparative Study

Decreasing the salivary flow rate manifested by xerostomia occurs early during the irradiation treatment. The duration of depressed salivary function varies among patients. Various histopathological changes occur in the salivary glands. The current study was performed to investigate and compare between the possible anti-radiotherapeutic effect of the gamma rays-synthesized curcumin nanoparticles (Cur NPs), and chitosan nanoparticles (Cs NPs). They were utilized to overcome the histopathological changes associated with radiation therapy in albino rats’ parotid glands. Sixty adult male Albino rats were utilized, fifteen as control group, fifteen as radiated group and thirty as Cur NPs and Cs NPs treatment groups. The parotid glands were dissected and examined histologically, immunohistochemically for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as well as histo-morphometrically. The histological results proved the antiradio-therapeutic effect of Cur NPs, and Cs NPs, with the least degenerative changes in the Cur NPs treated group. A high significant increase in VEGF was recorded in the radiated group as compared to the other treated groups. Cs NPs have proved to be an anti-radiotherapeutic and anti-oxidant substrate in treating the histopathological changes in radiated parotid glands of albino rats. However, it was lagging behind Cur NPs in all analyses but non-significant differences between them have been recorded.

Graphical Abstract

Controlled release and antiviral activity of acyclovir-loaded PLA/PEG nanofibers produced by solution blow spinning

Herpetic dermatitis and oral recurrent herpes (ORH) are among the most common human infections. Antiviral drugs such as acyclovir (ACV) are used in the standard treatment for ORH. Despite its therapeutic efficacy, ACV is continuously and repetitively administered in high doses. In this sense, the development of controlled release drug delivery systems such as core-shell fibers have a great potential in the treatment of ORH. In this work, poly(lactic acid)/poly(ethylene glycol) (PLA/PEG) fibers were produced by solution blow spinning (SBS) for the controlled release of ACV encapsulated in the core. PLA/PEG nanofibers containing four different blend ratios (100:0, 90:10, 80:20 and 70:30 wt%) without or with 10 wt% ACV were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetry (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The ACV release profile for 21 days was accessed by UV-Vis spectroscopy. Static water contact angles of the spun fiber mats were measured by the sessile drop method to evaluate fiber wettability upon contact with skin for transdermal release. Cytotoxicity and antiviral efficacy against Herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1) were evaluated using Vero cells. ACV addition did not impact on morphology, but slightly improved thermal stability of the fibers. Addition of hydrophilic PEG in PLA/PEG blends, however, increased drug release as confirmed by contact angle measurements and release profile. The in vitro tests showed the effectiveness of the drug delivery systems developed in reducing HSV-1 viral titer, which is related to the judicious combination of polymers used in the fibrous mats, in addition to not being cytotoxic to Vero cells. These results show the great potential of PLA/PEG solution blow-spun fibers in the controlled release of ACV to develop practical devices for the treatment of cold sores, while favoring the aesthetic appearance by covering them with a soft tissue patch (fibrous mats).

Evaluation of the hepatoprotective effect of curcumin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles against paracetamol overdose toxicity: Role of inducible nitric oxide synthase

Curcumin (Cur) is a natural compound that exhibited therapeutic effects against various liver injuries however Cur showed poor water solubility and bioavailability. This study aimed to design Cur-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and to evaluate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects in a model of acute hepatotoxicity induced by paracetamol (PCM) overdose compared to the raw Cur and N-acetylcysteine (NAC). SLNs were prepared by emulsion/solvent evaporation method and 3² factorial design was employed. Wistar rats were divided into Control, PCM, PCM + NAC, PCM + raw Cur, and PCM + Cur-SLNs groups and treated orally for 14 days before receiving a single PCM dose. The Cur-loaded SLNs showed high entrapment efficiency % ranging between 69.1 and 92.1%, particle size (PS) between 217 and 506 nm, and zeta potential values between -17.9 and -25.5 mV. The in vivo results revealed that the PCM group exhibited deterioration of liver functions, pathological lesions on the liver tissues, severe oxidative stress, and increases in both the serum and hepatic iNOS levels. Remarkably, the PCM + Cur-SLNs group showed significantly better liver functions and tissue integrity compared to the PCM group. Furthermore, higher reduced glutathione and catalase but lower malondialdehyde and iNOS levels were observed. In conclusion, Cur-loaded SLNs effectively prevented the liver damage induced by PCM overdose through alleviating the oxidative stress and inhibiting the serum and hepatic iNOS expression in an effect comparable to NAC and better than raw Cur.

Therapeutic Applications of Curcumin in Diabetes: A Review and Perspective

Diabetes is a metabolic disease with multifactorial causes which requires lifelong drug therapy as well as lifestyle changes. There is now growing scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the use of herbal supplements in the prevention and control of diabetes. Curcumin is one of the most studied bioactive components of traditional medicine, but its physicochemical characteristics are represented by low solubility, poor absorption, and low efficacy. Nanotechnology-based pharmaceutical formulations can help overcome the problems of reduced bioavailability of curcumin and increase its antidiabetic effects. The objectives of this review were to review the effects of nanocurcumin on DM and to search for databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE and ScienceDirect. The results showed that the antidiabetic activity of nanocurcumin is due to complex pharmacological mechanisms by reducing the characteristic hyperglycemia of DM. In light of these results, nanocurcumin may be considered as potential agent in the pharmacotherapeutic management of patients with diabetes.

A comparative study of optimized naringenin nanoformulations using nano-carriers (PLA/PVA and zein/pectin) for improvement of bioavailability

Naringenin, a lipophilic flavanone of citrus fruits, was encapsulated for enhanced bioavailability using biodegradable polymers of polylactic acid/polyvinyl alcohol (PLA/PVA) as well as zein/pectin as P/P-Nar-NPs and Z/P-Nar-NPs, respectively. The formulation variables were optimized using response surface methodology to achieve smaller particle size with higher surface charge and encapsulation efficiencies. The optimized formulations were physically characterized by SEM, FTIR, TGA and XRD techniques. Compared to Z/P-Nar-NPs, the P/P-Nar-NPs had better encapsulation efficiency and sustained release of naringenin under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Furthermore, the oral administration of single dose of free and nanoforms of naringenin in rats (90 mg/kg b.wt) showed higher efficacy of PLA/PVA in improving the relative bioavailability of naringenin (4.7-fold) as compared to the zein/pectin polymer (1.9-fold). Overall, the present study provides insights into the formulation performance of the encapsulated bioactive compound under different polymeric matrices.

Harnessing reactive oxygen/nitrogen species and inflammation: Nanodrugs for liver injury

Overall, 12% of the global population (800 million) suffers from liver disease, which causes 2 million deaths every year. Liver injury involving characteristic reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (RONS) and inflammation plays a key role in progression of liver disease. As a key metabolic organ of the human body, the liver is susceptible to injury from various sources, including COVID-19 infection. Owing to unique structural features and functions of the liver, most current antioxidants and anti-inflammatory drugs are limited against liver injury. However, the characteristics of the liver could be utilized in the development of nanodrugs to achieve specific enrichment in the liver and consequently targeted treatment. Nanodrugs have shown significant potential in eliminating RONS and regulating inflammation, presenting an attractive therapeutic tool for liver disease through controlling liver injury. Therefore, the main aim of the current review is to provide a comprehensive summary of the latest developments contributing to our understanding of the mechanisms underlying nanodrugs in the treatment of liver injury via harnessing RONS and inflammation. Meanwhile, the prospects of nanodrugs for liver injury therapy are systematically discussed, which provides a sound platform for novel therapeutic insights and inspiration for design of nanodrugs to treat liver disease.

Neuroprotective effects of curcumin-loaded nanophytosome on ketamine-induced schizophrenia-like behaviors and oxidative damage in male mice

Curcumin as an antioxidant natural herb has shown numerous pharmacological effects. However, the poor bioavailability of curcumin is a significant pharmacological barrier for its antioxidant activities. The present study was conducted to develop curcumin-loaded nanophytosome (CNP) and explore their therapeutic potential in a ketamine (KET)-induced schizophrenia (SCZ) model. The mice in our experiment were treated orally with curcumin and CNP (20 mg/kg) for 30 consecutive days. In addition, the animals received intraperitoneal injection of KET (30 mg/kg/day) from the 16th to the 30th day. SCZ-like behaviors were evaluated employing forced swimming test (FST), open field test (OFT), and novel object recognition test (NORT), and oxidative stress markers in the brain were estimated. Our results revealed that CNP has a greater neuroprotective effect compared to free curcumin. CNP pretreatment significantly ameliorated KET-induced brain injury evidenced by a marked reduction in the depressive and anxiety-like behaviors, memory deficits, and oxidative stress markers in cortical and subcortical tissues. Therefore, CNP, as a suitable drug delivery system, may improve curcumin bioavailability and confer stronger neuroprotective effects against KET-induced behavioral deficits and oxidative damages.

Cellular protein markers, therapeutics, and drug delivery strategies in the treatment of diabetes-associated liver fibrosis

Liver fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix due to chronic injuries, such as viral infection, alcohol abuse, high-fat diet, and toxins. Liver fibrosis is reversible before it progresses to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Type 2 diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing various complications including liver diseases. Abundant evidence suggests that type 2 diabetes and liver diseases are bidirectionally associated. Patients with type 2 diabetes experience more severe symptoms and accelerated progression of live diseases. Obesity and insulin resistance resulting from hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia are regarded as the two major risk factors that link type 2 diabetes and liver fibrosis. This review summarizes possible mechanisms of the association between type 2 diabetes and liver fibrosis. The cellular protein markers that can be used for diagnosis and therapy of type 2 diabetes-associated liver fibrosis are discussed. We also highlight the potential therapeutic agents and their delivery systems that have been investigated for type 2 diabetes-associated liver fibrosis.

Curcumin Activates the Nrf2 Pathway and Induces Cellular Protection Against Oxidative Injury

Curcumin is a naturally occurring polyphenol that is isolated from the rhizome of Curcuma longa (turmeric). This medicinal compound has different biological activities, including antioxidant, antibacterial, antineoplastic, and anti-inflammatory. It also has therapeutic effects on neurodegenerative disorders, renal disorders, and diabetes mellitus. Curcumin is safe and well-tolerated at high concentrations without inducing toxicity. It seems that curcumin is capable of targeting the Nrf2 signaling pathway in protecting the cells against oxidative damage. Besides, this strategy is advantageous in cancer therapy. Accumulating data demonstrates that curcumin applies four distinct ways to stimulate the Nrf2 signaling pathway, including inhibition of Keap1, affecting the upstream mediators of Nrf2, influencing the expression of Nrf2 and target genes, and finally, improving the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. In the present review, the effects of curcumin on the Nrf2 signaling pathway to exert its therapeutic and biological activities has been discussed.

Molecular prospect of type-2 diabetes: Nanotechnology based diagnostics and therapeutic intervention

About ninety percent of all diabetic conditions account for T2D caused due to abnormal insulin secretion/ action or increased hepatic glucose production. Factors that contribute towards the aetiology of T2D could be well explained through biochemical, molecular, and cellular aspects. In this review, we attempt to explain the recent evolving molecular and cellular advancement associated with T2D pathophysiology. Current progress fabricated in T2D research concerning intracellular signaling cascade, inflammasome, autophagy, genetic and epigenetics changes is discretely explained in simple terms. Present available anti-diabetic therapeutic strategies commercialized and their limitations which are needed to be acknowledged are addressed in the current review. In particular, the pre-eminence of nanotechnology-based approaches to nullify the inadequacy of conventional anti-diabetic therapeutics and heterogeneous nanoparticulated systems exploited in diabetic researches are also discretely mentioned and are also listed in a tabular format in the review. Additionally, as a future prospect of nanotechnology, the review presents several strategic hypotheses to ameliorate the austerity of T2D by an engineered smart targeted nano-delivery system. In detail, an effort has been made to hypothesize novel nanotechnological based therapeutic strategies, which exploits previously described inflammasome, autophagic target points. Utilizing graphical description it is explained how a smart targeted nano-delivery system could promote β-cell growth and development by inducing the Wnt signaling pathway (inhibiting Gsk3β), inhibiting inflammasome (inhibiting NLRP3), and activating autophagic target points (protecting Atg3/Atg7 complex from oxidative stress) thereby might ameliorate the severity of T2D. Additionally, several targeting molecules associated with autophagic and epigenetic factors are also highlighted, which can be exploited in future diabetic research.

Natural and synthetic antioxidants targeting cardiac oxidative stress and redox signaling in cardiometabolic diseases

Cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) are metabolic diseases (e.g., obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, rare genetic metabolic diseases, etc.) associated with cardiac pathologies. Pathophysiology of most CMDs involves increased production of reactive oxygen species and impaired antioxidant defense systems, resulting in cardiac oxidative stress (OxS). To alleviate OxS, various antioxidants have been investigated in several diseases with conflicting results. Here we review the effect of CMDs on cardiac redox homeostasis, the role of OxS in cardiac pathologies, as well as experimental and clinical data on the therapeutic potential of natural antioxidants (including resveratrol, quercetin, curcumin, vitamins A, C, and E, coenzyme Q10, etc.), synthetic antioxidants (including N-acetylcysteine, SOD mimetics, mitoTEMPO, SkQ1, etc.), and promoters of antioxidant enzymes in CMDs. As no antioxidant indicated for the prevention and/or treatment of CMDs has reached the market despite the large number of preclinical and clinical studies, a sizeable translational gap is evident in this field. Thus, we also highlight potential underlying factors that may contribute to the failure of translation of antioxidant therapies in CMDs.

A Review on Obesity Management through Natural Compounds and a Green Nanomedicine-Based Approach

Obesity is a serious health complication in almost every corner of the world. Excessive weight gain results in the onset of several other health issues such as type II diabetes, cancer, respiratory diseases, musculoskeletal disorders (especially osteoarthritis), and cardiovascular diseases. As allopathic medications and derived pharmaceuticals are partially successful in overcoming this health complication, there is an incessant need to develop new alternative anti-obesity strategies with long term efficacy and less side effects. Plants harbor secondary metabolites such as phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids and other specific compounds that have been shown to have effective anti-obesity properties. Nanoencapsulation of these secondary metabolites enhances the anti-obesity efficacy of these natural compounds due to their speculated property of target specificity and enhanced efficiency. These nanoencapsulated and naive secondary metabolites show anti-obesity properties mainly by inhibiting the lipid and carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, suppression of adipogenesis and appetite, and enhancing energy metabolism. This review focuses on the plants and their secondary metabolites, along with their nanoencapsulation, that have anti-obesity effects, with their possible acting mechanisms, for better human health.

MAPLE Coatings Embedded with Essential Oil-Conjugated Magnetite for Anti-Biofilm Applications

The present study reports on the development and evaluation of nanostructured composite coatings of polylactic acid (PLA) embedded with iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄) modified with Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) essential oil. The co-precipitation method was employed to synthesize the magnetite particles conjugated with Eucalyptus natural antibiotic (Fe₃O₄@EG), while their composition and microstructure were investigated using grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) technique was further employed to obtain PLA/Fe₃O₄@EG thin films. Optimal experimental conditions for laser processing were established by complementary infrared microscopy (IRM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigations. The in vitro biocompatibility with eukaryote cells was proven using mesenchymal stem cells, while the anti-biofilm efficiency of composite PLA/Fe₃O₄@EG coatings was assessed against Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogens.

Multiparticulate Systems of Ezetimibe Micellar System and Atorvastatin Solid Dispersion Efficacy of Low-Dose Ezetimibe/Atorvastatin on High-Fat Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemia and Hepatic Steatosis in Diabetic Rats

The aim of this study was to develop multiparticulate systems with a combination of ezetimibe micellar systems and atorvastatin solid dispersions using croscarmellose as a hydrophilic vehicle and Kolliphor RH40 as a surfactant. The presence of a surfactant with low hydrophilic polymer ratios produces the rapid dissolution of ezetimibe through a drug-polymer interaction that reduces its crystallinity. The solid dispersion of atorvastatin with low proportions of croscarmellose showed drug-polymer interactions sufficient to produce the fast dissolution of atorvastatin. Efficacy studies were performed in diabetic Goto-Kakizaki rats with induced hyperlipidemia. The administration of multiparticulate systems of ezetimibe and atorvastatin at low (2 and 6.7 mg/kg) and high (3 and 10 mg/kg) doses showed similar improvements in levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, lipoproteins, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase compared to the high-fat diet group. Multiparticulate systems at low doses (2 and 6.7 mg/kg of ezetimibe and atorvastatin) had a similar improvement in hepatic steatosis compared to the administration of ezetimibe and atorvastatin raw materials at high doses (3 and 10 mg/kg). These results confirm the effectiveness of solid dispersions with low doses of ezetimibe and atorvastatin to reduce high lipid levels and hepatic steatosis in diabetic rats fed a high-fat diet.