Daunorubicin oral bioavailability enhancement by surface coated natural biodegradable macromolecule chitosan based polymeric nanoparticles

Chromatographic Methods for the Analysis of the Antipsychotic Drug Clozapine and Its Major Metabolites: A Review

Clozapine (CLZ), a second-generation antipsychotic, can effectively reduce schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression symptoms. This review provides an overview of all reported chromatographic methods (62 references) for the quantification of CLZ and its two main metabolites, norclozapine and clozapine N-oxide in pharmaceutical formulations, biological matrices and environmental samples.

Promoting oral absorption of Panax notoginseng saponins via thiolated trimethyl chitosan and wheat germ agglutinin-modified nanoformulation

This study aimed to enhance the oral absorption of Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) via nanoparticles modified with thiolated trimethyl chitosan (TMC-Cys) and wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), termed PP-WT NPs. In vitro investigations revealed that PP-WT NPs exhibited delayed release of PNS and a strong tolerance to the gastric acids and digestive enzymes. Moreover, PP-WT NPs exhibited efficient cellular uptake and transport capabilities in the Caco-2/HT29-co-cultured cell model. In vivo animal experiments demonstrated that PP-WT NPs effectively overcame the mucus layer barrier, with the effective permeability coefficients of R1, Rg1, and Rb1 in the small intestine being 1.68, 1.64, and 1.63 times higher than those of free PNS, respectively. Taken together, thiolated trimethyl chitosan and wheat germ agglutinin-modified nanoparticles hold significant potential for improving the oral absorption of PNS, representing an attractive strategy for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

Novel Strategies Using Sagacious Targeting for Site-Specific Drug Delivery in Breast Cancer Treatment: Clinical Potential and Applications

For more than a decade, researchers have been working to achieve new strategies and smart targeting drug delivery techniques and technologies to treat breast cancer (BC). Nanotechnology presents a hopeful strategy for targeted drug delivery into the building of new therapeutics using the properties of nanomaterials. Nanoparticles are of high regard in the field of diagnosis and the treatment of cancer. The use of these nanoparticles as an encouraging approach in the treatment of various cancers has drawn the interest of researchers in recent years. In order to achieve the maximum therapeutic effectiveness in the treatment of BC, combination therapy has also been adopted, leading to minimal side effects and thus an enhancement in the quality of life for patients. This review article compares, discusses and criticizes the approaches to treat BC using novel design strategies and smart targeting of site-specific drug delivery systems.

Investigations into the characterization, degradation, and applications of biodegradable polymers by mass spectrometry

Biodegradable polymers have been getting more and more attention because of their contribution to the plastic pollution environmental issues and to move towards a circular economy. Nevertheless, biodegradable materials still exhibit various disadvantages restraining a widespread use in the market. Therefore, additional research efforts are required to improve their performance. Mass spectrometry (MS) affords a relevant contribution to optimize biodegradable polymer synthesis, to confirm macromolecular structures, to examine along the time the progress of degradation processes and highlight advantages and drawbacks in the extensive applications. This review aims to provide an overview of the MS investigations carried out to support the synthesis of biodegradable polymers, with helpful information on undesirable products or polymerization mechanism, to understand deterioration pathways by the structure of degradation products and to follow drug release and pharmacokinetic. Additionally, it summarizes MS studies addressed on environmental and health issues related to the extensive use of plastic materials, that is, potential migration of additives or microplastics identification and quantification. The paper is focused on the most significant studies relating to synthetic and microbial biodegradable polymers published in the last 15 years, not including agro-polymers such as proteins and polysaccharides.

Polymyxin B stabilized DNA micelles for sustained antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against P. aeruginosa

Nucleic acid-based materials showcase an increasing potential for antimicrobial drug delivery. Although numerous reports on drug-loaded DNA nanoparticles outline their pivotal antibacterial activities, their potential as drug delivery systems against bacterial biofilms awaits further studies. Among different oligonucleotide structures, micellar nanocarriers derived from amphiphilic DNA strands are of particular interest due to their spontaneous self-assembly and high biocompatibility. However, their clinical use is hampered by structural instability upon cation depletion. In this work, we used a cationic amphiphilic antibiotic (polymyxin B) to stabilize DNA micelles destined to penetrate P. aeruginosa biofilms and exhibit antibacterial/antibiofilm properties. Our study highlights how the strong affinity of this antibiotic enhances the stability of the micelles and confirms that antibacterial activity of the novel micelles remains intact. Additionally, we show that PMB micelles can penetrate P. aeruginosa biofilms and impact their metabolic activity. Finally, PMB micelles were highly safe and biocompatible, highlighting their possible application against P. aeruginosa biofilm-colonized skin wounds.

A review of FDA approved drugs and their formulations for the treatment of breast cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most diagnosed solid cancers globally. Extensive research has been going on for decades to meet the challenges of treating solid tumors with selective compounds. This article aims to summarize the therapeutic agents which are either being used or are currently under approval for use in the treatment or mitigation of breast cancer by the US FDA, to date. A structured search of bibliographic databases for previously published peer-reviewed research papers on registered molecules was explored and data was sorted in terms of various categories of drugs used in first line/adjuvant therapy for different stages of breast cancer. We included more than 300 peer-reviewed papers, including both research and reviews articles, in order to provide readers an useful comprehensive information. A list of 39 drugs are discussed along with their current status, dose protocols, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, possible side effects, and marketed formulations. Another interesting aspect of the article included focusing on novel formulations of these drugs which are currently in clinical trials or in the process of approval. This exhaustive review thus shall be a one-stop solution for researchers who are working in the areas of formulation development for these drugs.

Amelioration of Cancer Employing Chitosan, Its Derivatives, and Chitosan-Based Nanoparticles: Recent Updates

The limitations associated with the conventional treatment of cancer have necessitated the design and development of novel drug delivery systems based mainly on nanotechnology. These novel drug delivery systems include various kinds of nanoparticles, such as polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, hydrogels, and polymeric micelles. Among the various kinds of novel drug delivery systems, chitosan-based nanoparticles have attracted the attention of researchers to treat cancer. Chitosan is a polycationic polymer generated from chitin with various characteristics such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxicity, and mucoadhesiveness, making it an ideal polymer to fabricate drug delivery systems. However, chitosan is poorly soluble in water and soluble in acidic aqueous solutions. Furthermore, owing to the presence of reactive amino groups, chitosan can be chemically modified to improve its physiochemical properties. Chitosan and its modified derivatives can be employed to fabricate nanoparticles, which are used most frequently in the pharmaceutical sector due to their possession of various characteristics such as nanosize, appropriate pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, non-immunogenicity, improved stability, and improved drug loading capacity. Furthermore, it is capable of delivering nucleic acids, chemotherapeutic medicines, and bioactives using modified chitosan. Chitosan and its modified derivative-based nanoparticles can be targeted to specific cancer sites via active and passive mechanisms. Based on chitosan drug delivery systems, many anticancer drugs now have better effectiveness, potency, cytotoxicity, or biocompatibility. The characteristics of chitosan and its chemically tailored derivatives, as well as their use in cancer therapy, will be examined in this review.

Recent Advances in Doxorubicin Formulation to Enhance Pharmacokinetics and Tumor Targeting

Doxorubicin (DOX), a widely used drug in cancer chemotherapy, induces cell death via multiple intracellular interactions, generating reactive oxygen species and DNA-adducted configurations that induce apoptosis, topoisomerase II inhibition, and histone eviction. Despite its wide therapeutic efficacy in solid tumors, DOX often induces drug resistance and cardiotoxicity. It shows limited intestinal absorption because of low paracellular permeability and P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated efflux. We reviewed various parenteral DOX formulations, such as liposomes, polymeric micelles, polymeric nanoparticles, and polymer-drug conjugates, under clinical use or trials to increase its therapeutic efficacy. To improve the bioavailability of DOX in intravenous and oral cancer treatment, studies have proposed a pH- or redox-sensitive and receptor-targeted system for overcoming DOX resistance and increasing therapeutic efficacy without causing DOX-induced toxicity. Multifunctional formulations of DOX with mucoadhesiveness and increased intestinal permeability through tight-junction modulation and P-gp inhibition have also been used as orally bioavailable DOX in the preclinical stage. The increasing trends of developing oral formulations from intravenous formulations, the application of mucoadhesive technology, permeation-enhancing technology, and pharmacokinetic modulation with functional excipients might facilitate the further development of oral DOX.

Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption and Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometry of Microbial and Synthetic Biodegradable Polymers

The in-depth structural and compositional investigation of biodegradable polymeric materials, neat or partly degraded, is crucial for their successful applications. Obviously, an exhaustive structural analysis of all synthetic macromolecules is essential in polymer chemistry to confirm the accomplishment of a preparation procedure, identify degradation products originating from side reactions, and monitor chemical-physical properties. Advanced mass spectrometry (MS) techniques have been increasingly applied in biodegradable polymer studies with a relevant role in their further development, valuation, and extension of application fields. However, single-stage MS is not always sufficient to identify unambiguously the polymer structure. Thus, tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) has more recently been employed for detailed structure characterization and in degradation and drug release monitoring of polymeric samples, among which are biodegradable polymers. This review aims to run through the investigations carried out by the soft ionization technique matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) MS/MS in biodegradable polymers and present the resulting information.

Improved uptake and bioavailability of cinnamaldehyde via solid lipid nanoparticles for oral delivery

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this experiment was to explore the effect of Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) on improving the oral absorption and bioavailability of cinnamaldehyde (CA).

METHODS

CA-SLNs were prepared by high-pressure homogenization and characterized by particle size, entrapment efficiency, and morphology, thermal behavior and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR). In vitro characteristics of release, stability experiments, cytotoxicity, uptake and transport across Caco-2 cell monolayer of CA-SLNs were studied as well. In addition, CA-SLNs underwent pharmacokinetic and gastrointestinal mucosal irritation studies in rats.

RESULTS

CA-SLNs exhibited a spherical shape with a particle size of 44.57 ± 0.27 nm, zeta potential of -27.66 ± 1.9 mV and entrapment efficiency of 83.63% ± 2.16%. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and ATR-FTIR confirmed that CA was well encapsulated. In vitro release of CA-SLNs displayed that most of the drug (90.77% ± 5%) was released in the phosphate buffer, and only a small amount of drug (18.55% ± 5%) was released in the HCl buffer. CA-SLNs were taken up by an energy-dependent, endocytic mechanism mediated by caveolae mediated endocytosis across Caco-2 cells. The CA permeation through Caco-2 cell was facilitated by CA-SLNs. The outcome of the gastrointestinal irritation test demonstrated that CA-SLNs had no irritation to the rats' intestines. Compared with CA dispersions, incorporation of SLNs increased the oral bioavailability of CA more than 1.69-fold.

CONCLUSIONS

It was concluded that CA-SLNs improved the absorption across Caco-2 cell model and improved the oral administration bioavailability of CA in rats.

Tailored Supersaturable Immediate Release Behaviors of Hypotensive Supersaturating Drug-Delivery Systems Combined with Hot-Melt Extrusion Technique and Self-Micellizing Polymer

The short-term immediate release of supersaturated drug-delivery systems (SDDSs) presents an interesting process that can be tailored to multi-stage release events including initial release after dosing and dissolution, evolved release over longer dissolution periods for biological absorption, and terminal release following the end of immediate release. However, although comprehensive analysis of these critical release behaviors is often ignored yet essential for understanding the supersaturable immediate-release events for supersaturable solid formations when employing new techniques or polymers matched to a particular API. Hot-melt extrusion (HME) has become a popular continuous thermodynamic disordering technique for amorphization. The self-micellizing polymer Soluplus^® is reported to be a potential amorphous and amphiphilic graft copolymer frequently used in many nano/micro supersaturable formulations. Our current work aims to develop hypotensive supersaturating solid dispersion systems (faSDDS_HME) containing the BCS II drug, felodipine, when coordinately employing the HME technique and self-micellizing Soluplus^®, and to characterize their amorphization as well as immediate release. Other discontinuous techniques were used to prepare control groups (faSDDS_SE and faSDDS_QC). Tailored initial/evolved/terminal three-stage supersaturable immediate-release behaviors were identified and possible mechanisms controlling the release were explored. HME produced the highest initial release in related faSDDS_HME. During the evolved-release period, highly extended "spring-parachute" process was found in HME-induced amorphization owing to its superior supersaturation duration. Due to the enhanced crystallization inhibition effect, faSDDS_HME displayed the strongest terminal release as measured by solubility. For release mechanisms associated with HME, molecular interaction is not the likely dominant mechanism responsible for the improved properties induced by faSDDS_HME. For release mechanisms involved with the polymer Soluplus^® itself, they were found to inhibit drug recrystallization, spontaneously solubilize the drug and lead to improved molecular interactions in all SDDS systems, which were the factors responsible for the improved release. These mechanisms play an important role for the generation of an extended multi-stage immediate release produced via HME or self-micellizing polymer. This study provides a deeper understanding on amorphization and superior multi-stage supersaturable immediate-release behaviors for a particular hypotensive supersaturated delivery system combined with an HME-based continuous manufacturing technique and self-micellizing polymer strategy.

Famotidine-loaded solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system demonstrates exceptional efficiency in amelioration of peptic ulcer

Famotidine (FMD) is a highly potent H₂-receptor antagonist used in peptic ulcer treatment. However, the drug possesses poor aqueous solubility and permeability. FMD-loaded solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (FMD-S-SNEDDS) comprised of Labrafil® M 1944 CS, Tween® 20 and PEG 400, adsorbed on Aerosil® 200, has been developed. FMD-S-SNEDDS has demonstrated acceptable micromeritic properties, and upon reconstitution in water, spherical nanosized particles were released, as demonstrated by dynamic light scattering studies and transmission electron microscopy imaging. High encapsulation efficiency of FMD in the developed SNEDDS has been attained, and the saturated solubility of the drug has increased by 20-fold when it was incorporated in the SNEDDS. Several in vitro characterizations have been carried out, including, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and drug dissolution studies. In vivo, upon administration of the free drug suspension, marketed product (FAMOTIN®) and FMD-S-SNEDDS (40 mg/kg) in peptic ulcer rat models, FMD-S-SNEDDS and the marketed FMD demonstrated 12.5- and 4.7-fold reduction in ulcers number, and 28.7- and 7.2-fold reduction in ulcer severity, respectively, compared to the control untreated animals. FMD-S-SNEDDS showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the levels of depleted glutathione and endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the elevated level of malondialdehyde, as compared to the free and marketed FMD. Only FMD-S-SNEDDS could restore the elevated proton pump activity and cyclic adenosine monophosphate RNA expression to their normal levels. Hence, FMD-S-SNEDDS provides a great potential as a nanotherapeutic system for treatment of peptic ulcer.

Chitosan: A versatile bio-platform for breast cancer theranostics

Breast cancer is considered one of the utmost neoplastic diseases globally, with a high death rate of patients. Over the last decades, many approaches have been studied to early diagnose and treat it, such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and MRI and biomarker tests; do not show the optimal efficacy. These existing approaches are accompanied by severe side effects, thus recognizing these challenges, a great effort has been done to find out the new remedies for breast cancer. Main finding: Nanotechnology opened a new horizon to the treatment of breast cancer. Many nanoparticulate platforms for the diagnosis of involved biomarkers and delivering antineoplastic drugs are under either clinical trials or just approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is well known that natural phytochemicals are successfully useful to treat breast cancer because these natural compounds are safer, available, cheaper, and have less toxic effects. Chitosan is a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer. Further, it has outstanding features, like chemical functional groups that can easily modify our interest with an exceptional choice of promising applications. Abundant studies were directed to assess the chitosan derivative-based nanoformulation's abilities in delivering varieties of drugs. However, the role of chitosan in diagnostics and theranostics not be obligated. The present servey will discuss the application of chitosan as an anticancer drug carrier such as tamoxifen, doxorubicin, paclitaxel, docetaxel, etc. and also, its role as a theranostics (i.e. photo-responsive and thermo-responsive) moieties. The therapeutic and theranostic potential of chitosan in cancer is promising and it seems that to have a good potential to get to the clinic.

Chitosan-Based Hydrogel for the Dual Delivery of Antimicrobial Agents Against Bacterial Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm-Infected Wounds

Chronic wound infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria have become a global health concern. This is attributed to the biofilm-forming ability of bacteria on wound surfaces, thus enabling their persistent growth. In most cases, it leads to morbidity and in severe cases mortality. Current conventional approaches used in the treatment of biofilm wounds are proving to be ineffective due to limitations such as the inability to penetrate the biofilm matrix; hence, biofilm-related wounds remain a challenge. Therefore, there is a need for more efficient alternate therapeutic interventions. Hydrogen peroxide (HP) is a known antibacterial/antibiofilm agent; however, prolonged delivery has been challenging due to its short half-life. In this study, we developed a hydrogel for the codelivery of HP and antimicrobial peptides (Ps) against bacteria, biofilms, and wound infection associated with biofilms. The hydrogel was prepared via the Michael addition technique, and the physiochemical properties were characterized. The safety, in vitro, and in vivo antibacterial/antibiofilm activity of the hydrogel was also investigated. Results showed that the hydrogel is biosafe. A greater antibacterial effect was observed with HP-loaded hydrogels (CS-HP; hydrogel loaded with HP and CS-HP-P; hydrogel loaded with HP and peptide) when compared to HP as seen in an approximately twofold and threefold decrease in minimum inhibitory concentration values against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria, respectively. Similarly, both the HP-releasing hydrogels showed enhanced antibiofilm activity in the in vivo study in mice models as seen in greater wound closure and enhanced wound healing in histomorphological analysis. Interestingly, the results revealed a synergistic antibacterial/antibiofilm effect between HP and P in both in vitro and in vivo studies. The successfully prepared HP-releasing hydrogels showed the potential to combat bacterial biofilm-related infections and enhance wound healing in mice models. These results suggest that the HP-releasing hydrogels may be a superior platform for eliminating bacterial biofilms without using antibiotics in the treatment of chronic MRSA wound infections, thus improving the quality of human health.

A systematic review of functionalized polymeric nanoparticles to improve intestinal permeability of drugs and biological products

BACKGROUND

The oral route is the most frequently used and the most convenient route of drug administration, since it has several advantages, such as ease of use, patient compliance and better cost-effectiveness. However, physicochemical and biopharmaceutical limitations of various active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) hinder suitability for this route, including degradation in the gastrointestinal tract, low intestinal permeability and low bioavailability. To overcome these problems, while maintaining therapeutic efficacy, polymeric nanoparticles have attracted considerable attention for their ability to increase drug solubility, promote controlled release, and improve stability. In addition, the functionalization of nanocarriers can increase uptake and accumulation at the target site of action, and intestinal absorption, making it possible to obtain more viable, safe and efficient treatments for oral administration. <P> Objective: This systematic review aimed to seek recent advances in the literature on the use of polymeric nanoparticles functionalization to increase intestinal permeability of APIs that are intended for oral administration. <P> Method: Two bibliographic databases were consulted (PubMed and ScienceDirect). The selected publications and the writing of this systematic review were based on the guidelines mentioned in the PRISMA statement. <P> Results: Out of a total of 3036 studies, 22 studies were included in this article based on our eligibility criteria. The results were consistent for the application of nanoparticle functionalization to increase intestinal permeability. <P> Conclusion: The functionalized polymeric nanoparticles can be considered as carrier systems that improve the intestinal permeability and bioavailability of APIs, with the potential to result, in the future, in the development of oral medicines.

The screening of the safety profile of polymeric based amoxicillin nanoparticles in various test systems

Nanotechnology-based drugs show superiority over conventional medicines because of increased bioavailability, lower accumulation in non-target tissues, and improved therapeutic index with increased accumulation at target sites. However, it is important to be aware of possible problems related to the toxicity of these products, which have therapeutically superior properties. Accordingly, the present study was designed to investigate the safety profile of amoxicillin nanoparticles (AmxNPs) that we developed to increase the oral bioavailability of amoxicillin (Amx) in poultry. In the first part of the study, the genotoxicity potential of AmxNPs was evaluated using the Ames test and the in vitro comet assay. The results of Ames test showed that none of the tested concentrations of Amx and AmxNPs cause a significant increase in the revertant number of Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98, and TA100, either with or without metabolic activation. Similarly, the comet assay revealed that AmxNPs did not induce DNA damage at any of the concentrations used, whereas high-dose (200 μg/mL) of Amx caused a significant increase in the percentage of DNA in the tail. In the second part of the study, the toxicity potential of AmxNPs on broilers was investigated by measuring biochemical parameters. In vivo results demonstrated that AmxNps did not cause a significant change in biochemical parameters, whereas Amx increased ALT, glucose, and cholesterol levels at certain sampling times. The obtained findings suggest that AmxNPs could be a safe promising potential drug in drug delivery systems.

Oral administration co-delivery nanoparticles of docetaxel and bevacizumab for improving intestinal absorption and enhancing anticancer activity

In this study, to improve the intestinal absorption of small molecule chemotherapeutic drug docetaxel (DTX) and macromolecular monoclonal antibody drug bevacizumab (BVZ), we designed and prepared a type of co-delivery nanoparticles for the oral administration of DTX and BVZ. Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) were used as the carrier of DTX nanoparticles (CPNP_DTX), and methoxy polyethylene glycol-poly (β-amino ester) (mPEG-PAE) was used as the carrier of BVZ nanoparticles (PPNP_BVZ). Then, the two nanoparticles were physically mixed in mass ratios to form mixed co-delivery nanoparticles, which was named as CPNP_DTX&PPNP_BVZ. The nanoparticles were characterized with pH-sensitive drug release property. CPNP_DTX&PPNP_BVZ could significantly increase the bioavailability of DTX and BVZ according to the more cellular uptake in Caco-2 cells and the higher absorption in the intestinal tissue. Compared with free DTX and BVZ, CPNP_DTX&PPNP_BVZ showed excellent cytotoxic effects on A549 cells. Our study revealed the potential of co-delivery nanoparticles of binary mixture of chemotherapeutic small molecule and macromolecular antibody drug as an oral administration therapeutic system.

Management of Glioblastoma Multiforme by Phytochemicals: Applications of Nanoparticle-Based Targeted Drug Delivery System

The Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM; grade IV astrocytoma) exhorts tumors of star-shaped glial cells in the brain. It is a fast-growing tumor that spreads to nearby brain regions specifically to cerebral hemispheres in frontal and temporal lobes. The etiology of GBM is unknown, but major risk factors are genetic disorders like neurofibromatosis and schwannomatosis, which develop the tumor in the nervous system. The management of GBM with chemo-radiotherapy leads to resistance, and current drug regimen like Temozolomide (TMZ) is less efficacious. The reasons behind the failure of drugs are due to DNA alkylation in the cell cycle by enzyme DNA guanidase and mitochondrial dysfunction. Naturally occurring bioactive compounds from plants referred as phytochemicals, serve as vital sources for anti-cancer drugs. Some prototypical examples include taxol analogs, vinca alkaloids (vincristine, vinblastine), podophyllotoxin analogs, camptothecin, curcumin, aloe-emodin, quercetin, berberine etc. These phytochemicals often regulate diverse molecular pathways, which are implicated in the growth and progression of cancers. However, the challenges posed by the presence of BBB/BBTB to restrict the passage of these phytochemicals, culminates in their low bioavailability and relative toxicity. In this review, we integrated nanotech as a novel drug delivery system to deliver phytochemicals from traditional medicine to the specific site within the brain for the management of GBM.

Polymeric Nanoparticles and Their Novel Modifications for Targeted Delivery of Bortezomib

Bortezomib (BTZ) as a specific proteasome inhibitor is used to inhibit proliferation and migration of tumor cell in variety of cancers. Targeted delivery of this drug not only would minimize its unwanted side effects but also might improve its efficacy. This purpose could be gotten through different pathways but using efficient carriers may be the best one without using any additional ingredients/ materials. Some polymer based nanoparticles with specific functional groups have the ability to interact with boronic acid moiety in BTZ. This reaction might play an important role not only in cancer targeting therapy but also in loading and release properties of this drug. Novel modification such as making multifunctional or pH-sensitive nanocarriers, may also improve anticancer effect of BTZ. This review might have remarkable effect on researchers’ consideration about other possible interactions between BTZ and polymeric nanocarriers that might have great effect on its remedy pathway. It has the ability to brought bright ideas to their minds for novel amendments about other drugs and delivery systems.

l-Carnitine conjugated chitosan-stearic acid polymeric micelles for improving the oral bioavailability of paclitaxel

A delivery system based on l-carnitine (LC) conjugated chitosan (CS)-stearic acid polymeric micelles has been developed for improving the oral bioavailability of paclitaxel (PTX) through targeting intestinal organic cation/carnitine transporter 2 (OCTN2). Stearic acid grafted chitosan (CS-SA), as micelle skeleton material, was synthesized by 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC)-mediated coupling reaction. The PTX-loaded micelles were prepared by solvent evaporation-hydration method, and the ligand LC was conjugated onto the micelle surface by anchoring its derivative stearoyl group to the lipophilic core of micelle. The modified polymeric micelles showed regular spherical shapes with small particle size of 157.1 ± 5.2 nm and high drug loading capacity of 15.96 ± 0.20 wt%, and the micelle stability in water was supported by low critical micelle concentration of 14.31 ± 0.21 μg/ml. The drug-loaded micelles presented a slow and incomplete in vitro release, and the pharmacokinetic studies indicated the micelle carriers increased the relative bioavailability of PTX to 165.8% against the commercial formulation. The enhancement effect on intestinal absorption was also confirmed by the intracellular uptake of Caco-2 cells. The proposed micelle carrier system manifested a prospective tool for oral drug delivery.

Enhanced oral bioavailability and biodistribution of atractylodin encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticle in cholangiocarcinoma

Atractylodes lancea (Thunb) DC. and its bioactive compound atractylodin (ATD), have been shown to exert promising anticancer activity against cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) both in vitro and in vivo. However, the clinical development of ATD could be hindered due to hydrophobicity and poor pharmacokinetic properties, and thus, the requirement of high dose administration and the risk of toxicity. In the present study, ATD-loaded in PLGA nanoparticles (ATD-PLGA) and that coated with chitosan (ATD-PLGA-CS) were developed using nanoprecipitation and single emulsification methods, respectively. The optimized ATD-PLGA formulation provided superior physical and pharmaceutical properties over ATD-PLGA-CS. The antiproliferative activity of ATD-PLGA against the two CCA cell lines, HuCCT1 and CL6, and the normal cell line (OUMS-36T-1F) was evaluated using MTT assay. Results showed that normal epithelial cell was less sensitive to ATD-PLGA compared to both CCA cell lines. In mice, the radiolabelled ^99m Tc-ATD-PLGA showed superior pharmacokinetic profile over free ^99m Tc-ATD, as evidenced by a 2.7-fold increase of area under plasma concentration-time curve (AUC_0-∞ ), maximum plasma concentration (C_max ), time to C_max (t_max ), and mean residence time (MRT). Higher accumulation of ^99m Tc-ATD-PLGA was observed in vital organs/tissues such as blood, liver, heart, and kidney, compared with free ^99m Tc-ATD-PLGA. Altogether, the results suggest that PLGA NPs could be a suitable drug delivery carrier for ATD in CCA.

Development of Metronidazole Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles Using QbD Approach-A Novel and Potential Antibacterial Formulation

The aim of this study was to design, optimize, and develop metronidazole (Met) loaded nanoparticles (MetNp) by employing quality-based design (QbD) as well as a risk assessment methodology. A fractional factorial design was used by selecting five independent variables viz., chitosan concentration, tripolyphosphate concentration, and acetic acid concentration as material attributes, stirring speed, and stirring time as process parameters, whereby their influence on two dependent variables such as particle size (PS) and %entrapment efficiency (%EE) was studied. MetNp were synthesized by employing an ionic-gelation technique and optimized formula obtained from the QbD design study. PS and %EE studies revealed the formation of MetNp with 558.06 ± 2.52 nm and 59.07 ± 2.15%, respectively. Furthermore, a Met release study in various simulated gastro-intestinal media suggested pH-triggered (pH > 7.0) and sustained release profile of Met from Eudragit S100 enteric-coated MetNp capsule (MetNp cap). Moreover, the stability investigation of formulations confirmed good stability with respect to their PS and residual drug content (RDC) at different temperature conditions. In conclusion, the QbD method was effectively utilized in the development of MetNp and enteric-coated MetNp cap depicting their potential to release Met through MetNp cap only in the colon region and can be utilized for the treatment of amoebiasis in the colon.

Overview of novel strategies for the delivery of anthracyclines to cancer cells by liposomal and polymeric nanoformulations

Severe side effects and the rapid emergence of drug resistance in cancer cells are major problems in the chemotherapy utilizing anthracyclines, with a difference between cellular response at nano and micro scale levels. Understanding this situation is more complicated issue to attain efficient targeted formulations with low unexpected toxicity in patients. On nano-scale level, considering properties of nano-bio interaction in all relevant parts of the body may offer clue for suitable formulations. Four main strategies comprising PEGylation, surface charging, targeting, and stimuli responsiveness can be deployed to improve the liposomal and polymeric nanoformulations that can efficiently deliver common anthracyclines namely daunorubicin (DAU), doxorubicin (DOX), idarubicin (IDA), and epirubicin (EPI). Herein, the advances and challenges pertaining to the formulations of these anticancer drugs via liposomal and polymeric nanoformulations, are discussed.

Nanoformulation of PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera targeting ‘undruggable’ c-Myc for the treatment of pancreatic cancer

Aim: To explore the anticancer activity of a novel BRD4 protein degrader ARV-825 (ARV) and its nanoformulation development (ARV-NP) for treatment of pancreatic cancer. Materials & methods: ARV-NP were prepared using nanoprecipitation method and characterized for their physicochemical properties and various anticancer cell culture assays. Results: ARV-NP (89.63 ± 16.39 nm) demonstrated good physical stability, negligible hemolysis and improved half-life of ARV. ARV-NP showed significant cytotoxicity, apoptosis and anticlonogenic effect in pancreatic cancer cells. Significant downregulation of target proteins BRD4, c-Myc, Bcl-2 and upregulation of apoptotic marker cleaved caspase-3 was observed. Most importantly, ARV-NP treatment significantly inhibited the cell viability of 3D tumor spheroids of pancreatic cancer. Conclusion: ARV-NP represents a novel therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer.

Mass spectrometry in bioresorbable polymer development, degradation and drug-release tracking

A detailed characterization of polymeric matrices and appropriate degradation monitoring techniques are required to sustain the development of new materials as well as to enlarge the applications of the old ones. In fact, polymer analysis is essential for the clarification of the intrinsic relationship between structure and properties that ascertains the industrial applications in diverse fields. In bioresorbable and biodegradable polymers, the role of analytical methods is dual since it is pointed both at the polymeric matrices and at degradation tracking. The structural architectures, the mechanical and morphological properties, and the degradation rate, are of outstanding importance for a specific application. In some cases, the complexity of the polymer structure, the processes of decomposition or the low concentration of the degradation products need the concurrent use of different complementary analytical techniques to give detailed information of the reactions taking place. Several analytical methods are used in bioresorbable polymer development and degradation tracking. Among them, mass spectrometry (MS) plays an essential role and it is used to refine polymer syntheses, for its high sensitivity, to highlight degradation mechanism by detecting compounds present in trace amounts, or to track the degradation product profile and to study drug release. In fact, elucidation of reaction mechanisms and polymer structure, attesting to the purity and detecting defects as well as residual catalysts, in biodegradable and bioresorbable polymers, requires sensitive analytical characterization methods that are essential in providing an assurance of safety, efficacy and quality. This review aims to provide an overview of the MS strategies used to support research and development of resorbable polymers as well as to investigate their degradation mechanisms. It is focused on the most significant studies concerning synthetic bioresorbable matrices (polylactide, polyglycolide and their copolymers, polyhydroxybutyrate, etc.), published in the last ten years.

Docetaxel-Loaded Cholesterol-PEG Co-Modified Poly (n-Butyl) Cyanoacrylate Nanoparticles for Antitumor Drug Pulmonary Delivery: Preparation, Characterization, and in vivo Evaluation

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) have received much attention as promising carrier systems in lung cancer and brain metastases.

METHODS

Here, for the first time, we investigated the feasibility of using inhaled cholesterol-PEG co-modified poly (n-butyl) cyanoacrylate NPs (CLS-PEG NPs) of docetaxel (DTX) for sustained pulmonary drug delivery in cancer metastasis.

RESULTS

Spray-dried or freeze-dried NPs yielded sustained drug release in vitro. In vitro inhalation evaluation data indicated that the inhalation formulation had better inhalability. Compared with intravenous (IV) administration, pharmacokinetic data suggested that the inhalation formulation prolonged plasma concentration of DTX for greater than 24 h and is more quickly and completely absorbed into the rat lung after intratracheal (IT) administration. Furthermore, freeze-dried powders were found to increase the t1/2 and area under curve (AUC) by 2.3 and 6.5 fold compared to the free drug after IT administration, and spray-dried powders were found to increase the t1/2 and AUC by 3.4 and 8.8 fold, respectively. After pulmonary administration of the inhalation formulation, DTX appeared to prolong the pulmonary absorption time. In addition, the inhalation formulation was distributed to the brain in a sustained release manner.

CONCLUSION

These experimental results demonstrated that freeze- and spray-dried powders have the potential for pulmonary sustained release, and they also have the potential to be used as a novel treatment for the delivery of drugs that pass through the air-blood barrier and enter the brain and are efficient carriers for the treatment of brain metastasis.

Soluplus-Mediated Diosgenin Amorphous Solid Dispersion with High Solubility and High Stability: Development, Characterization and Oral Bioavailability

Background and Purpose

The traditional Chinese medicine, diosgenin (Dio), has attracted increasing attention because it possesses various therapeutic effects, including anti-tumor, anti-infective and anti-allergic properties. However, the commercial application of Dio is limited by its extremely low aqueous solubility and inferior bioavailability in vivo. Soluplus, a novel excipient, has great solubilization and capacity of crystallization inhibition. The purpose of this study was to prepare Soluplus-mediated Dio amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs) to improve its solubility, bioavailability and stability.

Methods

The crystallization inhibition studies were firstly carried out to select excipients using a solvent shift method. According to solubility and dissolution results, the preparation methods and the ratios of drug to excipient were further optimized. The interaction between Dio and Soluplus was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and molecular docking. The pharmacokinetic study was conducted to explore the potential of Dio ASDs for oral administration. Furthermore, the long-term stability of Dio ASDs was also investigated.

Results

Soluplus was preliminarily selected from various excipients because of its potential to improve solubility and stability. The optimized ASDs significantly improved the aqueous solubility of Dio due to its amorphization and the molecular interactions between Dio and Soluplus, as evidenced by dissolution test in vitro, DSC, FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM, PXRD and molecular docking technique. Furthermore, pharmacokinetic studies in rats revealed that the bioavailability of Dio from ASDs was improved about 5 times. In addition, Dio ASDs were stable when stored at 40°C and 75% humidity for 6 months.

Conclusion

These results indicated that Dio ASDs, with its high solubility, high bioavailability and high stability, would open a promising way in pharmaceutical applications.

MicroRNA-155 complementation on a chemically functionalized dual electrode surface for determining breast cancer

This study correlated and quantified the expression of microRNA-155 with breast cancer to determine breast cancer progression. The target microRNA-155 sequence was identified by complementation on a capture-probe sequence-immobilized interdigitated dual electrode surface. The sensitivity was found to be 1 fM, and the limit of detection fell between 1 and 10 fM. The specific sequence selectivity with single mismatches, triple mismatches, and noncomplementary bases failed to complement the capture-probe sequence. The obtained results demonstrate the selective determination of the microRNA-155 sequence and can help to diagnose breast cancer.

Targeted delivery of miRNA based therapeuticals in the clinical management of Glioblastoma Multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive (WHO grade IV) form of diffuse glioma endowed with tremendous invasive capacity. The availability of narrow therapeutic choices for GBM management adds to the irony, even the post-treatment median survival time is roughly around 14-16 months. Gene mutations seem to be cardinal to GBM formation, owing to involvement of amplified and mutated receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-encoding genes, leading to dysregulation of growth factor signaling pathways. Of-late, the role of different microRNAs (miRNAs) in progression and proliferation of GBM was realized, which lead to their burgeon potential applications for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. miRNA signatures are intricately linked with onset and progression of GBM. Although, progression of GBM causes significant changes in the BBB to form BBTB, but still efficient passage of cancer therapeutics, including antibodies and miRNAs are prevented, leading to low bioavailability. Recent developments in the nanomedicine field provide novel approaches to manage GBM via efficient and brain targeted delivery of miRNAs either alone or as part of cytotoxic pharmaceutical composition, thereby modulating cell signaling in well predicted manner to promise positive therapeutic outcomes.

A comparative ex vivo permeation evaluation of a novel 5-Fluorocuracil nanoemulsion-gel by topically applied in the different excised rat, goat, and cow skin

AIM OF THE STUDY

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) can't be given orally because of very low bioavailability and produces serious adverse effects. Therefore, the main objective of this research is to develop, evaluate, and comparative effects by different nanoformulations of topical application on chemoprevention of skin cancer in different types of skin.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Castor oil (oil), Transcutol HP (surfactant), and Polyethylene glycol (PEG)-400 (co-surfactant) have taken on the basis of nonionic property and highest nanoemulsion (NE)-region. Aqueous micro titration method with ultra-sonication method (based on high energy) was used for the preparation of 5-FU-NE. Optimized-5-FU-NE was stable thermodynamically, and their characterizations was performed on the basis of globule size, zeta potential, refractive index, and viscosity. Optimized-NE has been converted into 5-FU-NE-Gel with the help of Carbopol® 934 and also performed their permeation studies in the different skins (cow, goat, and rat, ex vivo) using Logan transdermal diffusion cell (DHC-6T). Optimized-5-FU-NE and 5-FU-NE-Gel were evaluated cytotoxic studies (in vitro) on the melanoma cell lines.

RESULTS

The permeation of 5-FU from 5-FU-NE-Gel nanoformulation for rat skin model was 1.56 times higher than the 5-FU-NE and 12.51 times higher than the 5-FU-S for the cow and goat skin model. The values of steady state flux and permeability coefficient for 5-FU-NE-Gel of rat skin were higher i.e. 12.0244 ± 1.12 µgcm-2h-1 and 1.2024 ± 0.073 × 10-2 µg cm-2h-1, respectively. Optimized-5-FU-NE and 5-FU-NE-Gel nanoformulation were found to be physically stable. SK-MEL-5 cancer cells have showed the results based on cytotoxicity studies (in vitro) that 5-FU as Optimized-5-FU-NE-Gel is much more efficacious than 5-FU-NE followed by free 5-FU. Localization of 5-FU from 5-FU-NE-Gel was higher with higher permeation in rat skin.

CONCLUSION

5-FU-NE-Gel is found to be for the better to treatment of cutaneous malignancies. It can be developed 5-FU-NE-Gel could be a promising vehicle for the skin cancer chemoprevention.

The potential of micelleplexes as a therapeutic strategy for osteosarcoma disease

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a rare aggressive bone, presenting low patient survival rate, high metastasis and relapse occurrence, mostly due to multi-drug resistant cells. To surpass that, the use of nanomedicine for the targeted delivery of genetic material, drugs or both have been extensively researched. In this review, we address the current situation of the disorder and some gene therapy options in the nanomedicine field that have been investigated. Among them, polymeric micelles (PM) are an advantageous therapeutic alternative highly explored for OS, as they allow for the targeted transportation of poorly water-soluble drugs to cancer cells. In addition, micelleplexes are PMs with cationic properties with promising features, such as the possibility for a dual therapy, which have made them an attractive research subject. The aim of this review article is to elucidate the application of a micelleplex formulation encapsulating the underexpressed miRNA145 to achieve an active targeting to OS cells and overcome multi-drug resistance, as a new and viable therapeutic strategy.

Quantification and Evaluations of Catechin Hydrate Polymeric Nanoparticles Used in Brain Targeting for the Treatment of Epilepsy

To formulate novel chitosan (CS)-coated-PLGA-nanoparticles (NPs) using a central composite design approach and use them in order to improve brain bioavailability for catechin hydrate (CH) through direct nose-to-central nervous system (CNS) delivery for the evaluation of a comparative biodistribution study of CH by the newly developed ultra high performance liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy and mass spectroscopy (UHPLC-MS/MS) method in the treatment of epilepsy. For PLGA-NPs' preparation, a double emulsion-solvent evaporation method was used, where a four-factor, three-level central composite design was used to obtain the best nanoformulation. For the optimization, four independent variables were chosen, that is, PLGA, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), sonication time, and temperature. The optimized PLGA-NPs were further coated with chitosan and assessed for drug release, nasal permeation study, as well as a comparative pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic study. Independent and dependent variables helped to optimize the best nanoformulation based on the composition of PLGA (50.0 mg), PVA (1.10%), sonication time (90.0 s), and temperature (25.0 °C). The values of dependent variables were observed, such as polydispersity index (PDI), particle size, and zeta potential (ZP)-that is, 0.106 ± 0.01, 93.46 ± 3.94 nm, and -12.63 ± 0.08 mV, respectively. The ZPs of CS-coated PLGA-NPs were changed from negative to positive value with some alteration in the distribution of particle size. Excellent mucoadhesive-nature of CS-CH-PLGA-NPs as compared with CH-S and CH-PLGA-NPs was seen, with a retention time of 0.856 min and m/z of 289.23/245.20 for CH, together with a retention time of 1.04 min and m/z of 301.21/151.21 for Quercetin as an internal standard (IS). For a linear range (1-1000 ng mL^-1), % accuracy (93.07-99.41%) and inter- and intraday % precision (0.39-4.90%) were determined. The improved C_max with area under curve (AUC)_0-24 was found to be highly significant (p < 0.001) in Wistar rats' brain as compared with the i.n. and i.v. treated group based on the pharmacokinetics (PK) results. Furthermore, CS-CH-PLGA-NPs were found to be more significant (p < 0.001) for the treatment of seizure threshold rodent models, that is, increasing current electroshock and pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures. A significant role of CS-CH-PLGA-NPs was observed, that is, p < 0.001, for the enhancement of brain bioavailability and the treatment of epilepsy.

A bioanalytical UHPLC based method used for the quantification of Thymoquinone-loaded-PLGA-nanoparticles in the treatment of epilepsy

To formulate a nanoformulation (PLGA-NPs) and to improve brain bioavailability for thymoquinone (THQ) through intranasal (i.n.) drug delivery, using a newly UHPLC-PDA developed the method and validated. Five different THQ-PLGA-NPs (THQ-N1 to THQ-N5) were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation method. A new UHPLC method developed and validated for biodistribution studies in the rat’s brain, lungs and plasma. Optimized-THQ-N1-NPs showed a particle size of 97.36 ± 2.01 nm with a low PDI value of 0.263 ± 0.004, ZP of − 17.98 ± 1.09, EE of 82.49 ± 2.38% and DL of 5.09 ± 0.13%. THQ-N1-NPs showed sustained release pattern via in vitro release profile. A bioanalytical method was developed by UHPLC-PDA and validated for the evaluation of pharmacokinetics parameters, biodistribution studies, brain drug-targeting potential (89.89 ± 9.38%), and brain-targeting efficiency (8075.00 ± 113.05%) studies through intranasal administration which showed an improved THQ-brain- bioavailability, compared to i.v. Moreover, THQ-PLGA-NPs improved the seizure threshold treatment i.e. epilepsy increasing current electroshock (ICES) rodent models induced seizures in rats. A significant role of THQ-PLGA-NPs with high brain targeting efficiency of the nanoformulations was established. The reported data supports the treatment of epilepsy.

Synthesis, Formulation, and Characterization of Doxorubicin-Loaded Laponite/Oligomeric Hyaluronic Acid-Aminophenylboronic Acid Nanohybrids and Cytological Evaluation against MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells

As a synthetic clay material, laponite RDS (LR) was investigated as an effective drug carrier as a result of the special nanodisk structure together with the negative-charged surface to achieve enhanced cellular uptake and targeted delivery. In this research work, the synthesized oligomeric hyaluronic acid-aminophenylboronic acid (oHA-APBA) was entangled onto LR nanodisks to fabricate a valid targeted platform for breast cancer therapy. Briefly, through the formation of amide bonds, 3-APBA was connected to the chain of oHA with a substituted ratio of 4.0 ± 0.2% to synthesize oHA-APBA copolymer. Thereafter, doxorubicin (DOX) was inserted into the interlayer space of LR by the way of the ion exchange process, followed by an assembly with oHA-APBA as a targeted protection layer. The satisfactory drug encapsulation efficiency (> 80%) and narrow size distribution were achieved. The in vitro drug release study demonstrated the release of DOX from DOX@LR/oHA-APBA was sustained and acid dependent. In addition, after fitting the drug cumulative release of DOX@LR/oHA-APBA under different pH conditions with several kinetic models, it was identified that drug release from DOX@LR/oHA-APBA nanohybrids at pH 5.0 was mainly dependent on both diffusion and ion exchange effects. However, under the condition of pH 7.4, the drug was most efficiently released by diffusion effect. Importantly, DOX@LR/oHA-APBA showed remarkable cellular uptake and intracellular drug distribution in MCF-7 cells, which were consistent with inhibitory ability against MCF-7 cells. Hence, the high DOX loading capacity and enhanced cellular tracking can enlighten LR/oHA-APBA as an effective drug delivery carrier for breast cancer therapy.

Co-encapsulation of docetaxel and cyclosporin A into SNEDDS to promote oral cancer chemotherapy

Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) have been considered as a promising platform for oral delivery of many BCS (biopharmaceutics classification system) class IV drugs, such as docetaxel (DTX). However, oral chemotherapy with DTX is also restricted by its active P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux and hepatic first-pass metabolism. To address these challenges, we developed a novel SNEDDS co-loaded with DTX and cyclosporine A (CsA) to achieve effective inhibition of P-gp efflux and P450 enzyme metabolization, improving oral bioavailability of DTX. The SNEDDS showed uniform droplet size of about 30 nm. Additionally, the prepared SNEDDS exhibited a sequential drug release trend of CsA prior to DTX. The intestinal experiments confirmed that the membrane permeability of DTX was significantly increased in the whole intestinal tract, especially in the jejunum segment. Furthermore, the oral bioavailability of co-loaded SNEDDS was 9.2-fold and 3.4-fold higher than DTX solution and DTX SNEDDS, respectively. More importantly, it exhibited a remarkable antitumor efficacy with a reduced toxicity compared with intravenously administered DTX solution. In summary, DTX-CsA co-loaded SNEDDS is a promising platform to facilitate oral docetaxel-based chemotherapy.

A novel self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system for curcumin used in the treatment of wound healing and inflammation

The main objective of this study was to develop and evaluate self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) of curcumin (Cur) to enhance their solubility as well as improve skin permeation; and evaluate wound healing potential of Cur via SNEDDS in comparison with standards pure eucalyptus oil-SNEDDS (Euc-SNEDDS), pure curcumin suspension (Cur-S), and standard fusidic acid followed by their anti-inflammatory action. Curcumin-loaded different SNEDDS formulations were formulated through aqueous phase titration method and the zones of SNEDDS were recognized by the construction of phase diagrams. Eucalyptus oil, Tween 80 (surfactant), and Transcutol HP (co-surfactant) were selected on the basis of their solubility and highest nanoemulsion region. Characterization of thermodynamic stability for Cur-loaded SNEDDS was evaluated by its globule size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, viscosity, % transmittance, refractive index, and surface morphology. Cur-SNEDDS (Cur-SN4) was optimized and selected on the basis of their excellent physicochemical parameters for in vivo activity. The particle size (59.56 ± 0.94 nm), % transmittance (99.08 ± 0.07%), and PDI (0.207 ± 0.011 were observed for optimized Cur-SNEDDS. TEM and SEM showed their smooth and spherical shape of the morphological characterization with zeta potential (- 21.41 ± 0.89), refractive index (1.341 ± 0.06), and viscosity (11.64 ± 1.26 cp) for optimized Cur-SNEDDS. Finally, optimized Cur-SNEDDS was used to enhance skin permeation with improvement in the solubility of Cur. However, optimized Cur-SNEDDS showed significant wound healing activity as compared with pure eucalyptus oil and Cur-S on topical application. Optimized Cur-SNEDDS showed healing of wound as compared to standard fusidic acid. Optimized Cur-SNEDDS exhibited no signs of inflammatory cells on the histopathological studies of treated rats which were recommended the safety and non-toxicity of Cur-SNEDDS. Newly developed Cur-SNEDDS could be successfully used to enhance Cur-solubility and skin permeation, as well as suggested a potential role of Cur-SNEDDS for better improvement of wound healing activity followed by anti-inflammatory action of Cur via topical application.

Pharmacokinetic studies of nanoparticles as a delivery system for conventional drugs and herb-derived compounds for cancer therapy: a systematic review

The poor pharmacokinetic characteristics of most anticancer drugs have limited their clinical effectiveness. The application of nanoparticles as a novel drug delivery system has provided opportunities to tackle the current challenges facing conventional drug delivery systems such as poor pharmacokinetics, lack of specificity to tumor cells, multidrug resistance, and toxicity. This systematic review aims to examine the application of pharmacokinetic studies of nanoparticles loaded in conventional drugs and herb-derived compounds for cancer therapy. The pharmacokinetic parameters of several herbal medicines and chemotherapeutic drugs loaded into nanoparticles were reported. This included area under the curve (AUC) of plasma concentration-time profile, maximum plasma concentration (C_max), time to maximum plasma concentration (T_max), volume of distribution (V_d or V_ss), elimination half-life (t_½), and clearance (CL). The systematic review was conducted using information available in the PubMed and Science Direct databases up to February 2019. The search terms employed were: pharmacokinetics, pharmacokinetic study, nanoparticles, anticancer, traditional medicine, herbal medicine, herb-derived compounds, natural products, and chemotherapy. Overall, nanoparticle carriers not only significantly improved pharmacokinetics but also further enhanced permeability, solubility, stability, specificity, and selectivity of the carried anticancer drugs/herb-derived compounds to target tumor cells. Additionally, they also limited hepatic first-pass metabolism and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux of the carried anticancer drugs/herb-derived compounds. Based on this systematic review, polymeric nanoparticles were the most commonly used nanocarrier to improve the pharmacokinetic parameters. The use of nanoparticles as a novel drug delivery system has the potential to improve both pharmacokinetics and cytotoxicity activity of the loaded drugs/herb-derived compounds for cancer therapy.