Silymarin encapsulated nanoliquid crystals for improved activity against beta amyloid induced cytotoxicity

Unlocking the possibilities of therapeutic potential of silymarin and silibinin against neurodegenerative Diseases-A mechanistic overview

Silymarin, a bioflavonoid derived from the Silybum marianum plant, was discovered in 1960. It contains C25 and has been extensively used as a therapeutic agent against liver-related diseases caused by alcohol addiction, acute viral hepatitis, and toxins-inducing liver failure. Its efficacy stems from its role as a potent anti-oxidant and scavenger of free radicals, employed through various mechanisms. Additionally, silymarin or silybin possesses immunomodulatory characteristics, impacting immune-enhancing and immune-suppressive functions. Recently, silymarin has been recognized as a potential neuroprotective therapy for various neurological conditions, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, along with conditions related to cerebral ischemia. Its hepatoprotective qualities, primarily due to its anti-oxidant and tissue-regenerating properties, are well-established. Silymarin also enhances health by modifying processes such as inflammation, β-amyloid accumulation, cellular estrogenic receptor mediation, and apoptotic machinery. While believed to reduce oxidative stress and support neuroprotective mechanisms, these effects represent just one aspect of the compound's multifaceted protective action. This review article further delves into the possibilities of potential therapeutic advancement of silymarin and silibinin for the management of neurodegenerative disorders via mechanics modules.

Silymarin ameliorates motor function and averts neuroinflammation-induced cell death in the rat model of Huntington's disease

Huntington's disease (HD) is a scarce neurodegenerative disorder defined by chorea (unusual involuntary movements), behavioral presentations, psychiatric features, and cognitive deterioration. Although the precise pathogenic mechanism behind HD has not yet been identified, the most widely acknowledged pathways include excitotoxicity, mitochondrial malfunction, neuroinflammation, neurochemical imbalance, oxidative stress, and apoptosis HD has no efficient therapy. Current medications have drawbacks. Silymarin, a compound made up of standardized extracts obtained from the seeds of the Silybum marianum and polyphenolic flavonolignan, is utilized in therapeutic settings to treat a variety of experimental disorders in animals. Silymarin's key pharmacological activities include anti-cancer, hepatoprotection, antioxidant, cardioprotection, and anti-inflammatory. It also has no adverse side effects on people or animals. The current study aims to provide Silymarin's neuro-pharmacological activities or therapeutic qualities in HD. In this study, Thirty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats (200-220g, 8 weeks) at the initial of the study were used. Silymarin solution (100mg/Kg) was administered by oral gavage for 21 days to ameliorate neural damage in rats injected with 3-nitropropionicacid (3-NP) in a preliminary rat model of HD. The results showed that administration of silymarin to HD rats reduced gliosis, improved motor coordination and muscle activity, and increased striatal volume and the number of neurons and glial cells. Our results suggest that silymarin provides a protective environment for nerve cells and can have beneficial effects against the harmful effects of HD.

Formulation and Characterization of Silibinin Entrapped Nano-Liquid Crystals for Activity against Aβ1-42 Neurotoxicity in In-Vivo Model

Silibinin (SIL) Encapsulated Nanoliquid Crystalline (SIL-NLCs) particles were prepared to study neuroprotective effect against amyloid beta (Aβ1-42) neurotoxicity in Balb/c mice model. Theses NLCs were prepared through hot emulsification and probe sonication technique. The pharmacodynamics was investigatigated on Aβ1-42 intracerebroventricular (ICV) injected Balb/c mice. The particle size, zeta potential and drug loading were optimized to be 153 ± 2.5 nm, -21 mV, and 8.2%, respectively. Small angle X-ray (SAXS) and electron microscopy revealed to crystalline shape of SIL-NLCs. Thioflavin T (ThT) fluroscence and circular dichroism (CD) technique were employed to understand monomer inhibition effect of SIL-NLCs on Aβ1-4. In neurobehavioral studies, SIL-NLCs exhibited enhanced mitigation of memory impairment induced on by Aβ1-42 in T-maze and new object recognition test (NORT). Whereas biochemical and histopathological estimation of brain samples showed reduction in level of Aβ1-42 aggregate, acetylcholine esterase (ACHE) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). SIL-NLCs treated animal group showed higher protection against Aβ1-42 toxicity compared to free SIL and Donopezil (DPZ). Therefore SIL-NLCs promises great prospect in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.

A comparative study on the preparation and evaluation of solubilizing systems for silymarin

Silymarin (SM) exhibits clinical efficacy in treating liver injuries, cirrhosis, and chronic hepatitis. However, its limited water solubility and low bioavailability hinder its therapeutic potential. The primary objective of this study was to compare the in vitro and in vivo characteristics of the four distinct SM solubilization systems, namely SM solid dispersion (SM-SD), SM phospholipid complex (SM-PC), SM sulfobutyl ether-β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex (SM-SBE-β-CDIC) and SM self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SM-SMEDDS) to provide further insights into their potential for enhancing the solubility and bioavailability of SM. The formation of SM-SD, SM-PC, and SM-SBE-β-CDIC was thoroughly characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD) techniques to analyze the changes in their microscopic structure, molecular structure, and crystalline state. The particle size and polydispersity index (PDI) of SM-SMEDDS were 71.6 ± 1.57 nm, and 0.13 ± 0.03, respectively. The self-emulsifying time of SM-SMEDDS was 3.0 ± 0.3 min. SM-SMEDDS exhibited an improved in vitro dissolution rate and demonstrated the highest relative bioavailability compared to pure SM, SM-SD, SM-PC, SM-SBE-β-CDIC, and Legalon®. Consequently, SMEDDS shows promise as a drug delivery system for orally administered SM, offering enhanced solubility and bioavailability.

Evolving therapeutic interventions for the management and treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) patients experience diverse symptoms, including memory loss, cognitive impairment, behavioral abnormalities, mood changes, and mental issues. The fundamental objective of this review is to discuss novel therapeutic approaches, with special emphasis on recently approved marketed formulations for the treatment of AD, especially Aducanumab, the first FDA approved moiety that surpasses the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and reduces amyloid plaques in the brain, thereby reducing associated cognitive decline. However, it is still in the phase IV trial and is to be completed by 2030. Other drugs such as lecanemab are also under clinical trial and has recently been approved by the FDA and is also discussed here. In this review, we also focus on active and passive immunotherapy for AD as well as several vaccines, such as amyloid-beta epitope-based vaccines, amyloid-beta DNA vaccines, and stem cell therapy for AD, which are in clinical trials. Furthermore, ongoing pre-clinical trials associated with AD and other novel strategies such as curcumin-loaded nanoparticles, Crispr/ cas9, precision medicine, as well as some emerging therapies like anti-sense therapy are also highlighted. Additionally, we discuss some off-labeled drugs like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), anti-diabetic drugs, and lithium, which can manage symptoms of AD and different non-pharmacological approaches are also covered which can help to manage AD. In summary, we have tried to cover all the therapeutic interventions which are available for the treatment and management of AD under sections approved, clinical phase, pre-clinical phase or futuristic interventions, off-labelled drugs, and non-pharmacological interventions for AD, offering positive findings and well as challenges that remain.

Targeting Amyloids with Coated Nanoparticles: A Review on Potential Combinations of Nanoparticles and Bio-Compatible Coatings

Amyloidosis is the major cause of many neurodegenerative diseases, such as, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's where the misfolding and deposition of a previously functional protein make it inept for carrying out its function. The genesis of amyloid fibril formation and the strategies to inhibit it have been studied extensively, although some parts of this puzzle still remain unfathomable to date. Many classes of molecules have been explored as potential drugs in vitro, but their inability to work in vivo by crossing the blood-brain-barrier has made them an inadequate treatment option. In this regard, nanoparticles (NPs) have turned out to be an exciting alternative because they could overcome many drawbacks of previously studied molecules and provide advantages, such as, greater bioavailability of molecules and target-specific delivery of drugs. In this paper, we present an overview on several coated NPs which have shown promising efficiency in inhibiting fibril formation. A hundred and thirty papers published in the past two decades have been comprehensively reviewed, which majorly encompass NPs comprising different materials like gold, silver, iron-oxide, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), polymeric NP, etc., which are coated with various molecules of predominantly natural origin, such as different types of amino acids, peptides, curcumin, drugs, catechin, etc. We hope that this review will shed light on the advancement of symbiotic amalgamation of NPs with molecules from natural sources and will inspire further research on the tremendous therapeutic potential of these combinations for many amyloid-related diseases.

Regulation of neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease via nanoparticle-loaded phytocompounds with anti-inflammatory and autophagy-inducing properties

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by neuroinflammation linked to amyloid β (Aβ) aggregation and phosphorylated tau (τ) protein in neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Key elements in Aβ production and NFT assembly, like γ-secretase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK), contribute to neuroinflammation. In addition, impaired proteosomal and autophagic pathways increase Aβ and τ aggregation, leading to neuronal damage. Conventional neuroinflammation drugs have limitations due to unidirectional therapeutic approaches and challenges in crossing the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB). Clinical trials for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other therapeutics remain uncertain. Novel strategies addressing the complex pathogenesis and BBB translocation are needed to effectively tackle AD-related neuroinflammation.

PURPOSE

The current scenario demands for a much-sophisticated theranostic measures which could be achieved via customized engineering and designing of novel nanotherapeutics. As, these therapeutics functions as a double edge sword, having the efficiency of unambiguous targeting, multiple drug delivery and ability to cross BBB proficiently.

METHODS

Inclusion criteria involve selecting recent, English-language studies from the past decade (2013-2023) that explore the regulation of neuroinflammation in neuroinflammation, Alzheimer's disease, amyloid β, tau protein, nanoparticles, autophagy, and phytocompounds. Various study types, including clinical trials, experiments, and reviews, were considered. Exclusion criteria comprised non-relevant publication types, studies unrelated to Alzheimer's disease or phytocompounds, those with methodological flaws, duplicates, and studies with inaccessible data.

RESULTS

In this study, polymeric nanoparticles loaded with specific phytocompounds and coated with an antibody targeting the transferrin receptor (anti-TfR) present on BBB. Thereafter, the engineered nanoparticles with the ability to efficiently traverse the BBB and interact with target molecules within the brain, could induce autophagy, a cellular process crucial for neuronal health, and exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects. Henceforth, the proposed combination of desired phytocompounds, polymeric nanoparticles, and anti-TfR coating presents a promising approach for targeted drug delivery to the brain, with potential implications in neuroinflammatory conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.

In Silico Interactions of Natural and Synthetic Compounds with Key Proteins Involved in Alzheimer's Disease: Prospects for Designing New Therapeutics Compound

Memory impairment is a result of multiple factors including amyloid-beta (Aβ) accumulation. Several receptors are mediated for Aβ transport and signaling. Moreover, blood lipids are involved in Aβ signaling pathway through these receptors. Mediated blood lipid level by statins aims to regulate Aβ signaling cascade. First, the structure of receptors was taken from the RCSB PDB database and prepared with MGLTools and AutoDock tool 4. Second, the ligand was prepared for docking through AutoDock Vina. The binding affinity was calculated, and the binding sites were determined through LigPlot+ software. Besides, pharmacokinetic properties were calculated through multiple software. Finally, a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was conducted to evaluate ligands stability along with clustering analysis to evaluate proteins connection. Our molecular docking and dynamic analyses revealed silymarin as a potential inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), P-glycoprotein, and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) with 0.704, 0.85, and 0.83 Å for RMSD along with -114.27, -107.44, and -122.51 kcal/mol for free binding energy, respectively. Moreover, rosuvastatin and quercetin have more stability compared to silymarin and donepezil in complex with P-glycoprotein and ACE2, respectively. Eventually, based on clustering and pharmacokinetics analysis, silymarin, rosuvastatin, and quercetin are suggested to be involved in peripheral clearance of Aβ. The bioactivity effects of mentioned statins and antioxidants are predicted to be helpful in treating memory impairment in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Nevertheless, mentioned drug effect could be improved by nanoparticles to facilitate penetration of the blood-brain barrier (BBB).

Pharmaceutical prospects of Silymarin for the treatment of neurological patients: an updated insight

Background

Silymarin is a polyphenolic flavonoid complex extricated from dried fruits and seeds of the plant Silybum marianum L. Chemically, it is a mixture of flavonolignan complexes consisting of silybin, isosilybin, silychristin, silydianin, a minor quantity of taxifolin, and other polyphenolic compounds, which possess different bio medicinal values.

Purpose

This review critically looks into the current status, pharmaceutical prospects and limitations of the clinical application of Silymarin for treating neurological disorders. In particular, Silymarin's medicinal properties and molecular mechanisms are focused on providing a better-compiled understanding helpful in its neuro-pharmacological or therapeutic aspects.

Methods

This review was compiled by the literature search done using three databases, i.e., PubMed (Medline), EMBASE and Science Direct, up to January 2023, using the keywords-Silymarin, neurological disorders, cognitive disorders, Type 2 Diabetes, pharmaceutical prospects and treatment. Then, potentially relevant publications and studies (matching the eligible criteria) were retrieved and selected to explain in this review using PRISMA 2020 (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) study flow chart.

Result

Since its discovery, it has been widely studied as a hepatoprotective drug for various liver disorders. However, in the last 10-15 years, several research studies have shown its putative neuroprotective nature against various brain disorders, including psychiatric, neurodegenerative, cognitive, metabolic and other neurological disorders. The main underlying neuroprotective mechanisms in preventing and curing such disorders are the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, pro-neurotrophic and pro-estrogenic nature of the bioactive molecules.

Conclusion

This review provides a lucid summary of the well-studied neuroprotective effects of Silymarin, its underlying molecular mechanisms and current limitations for its usage during neurological disorders. Finally, we have suggested a future course of action for developing it as a novel herbal drug for the treatment of brain diseases.

Lipidic lyotropic liquid crystals: Insights on biomedical applications

Liquid crystals (LCs) possess unique physicochemical properties, translatable into a wide range of applications. To date, lipidic lyotropic LCs (LLCs) have been extensively explored in drug delivery and imaging owing to the capability to encapsulate and release payloads with different characteristics. The current landscape of lipidic LLCs in biomedical applications is provided in this review. Initially, the main properties, types, methods of fabrication and applications of LCs are showcased. Then, a comprehensive discussion of the main biomedical applications of lipidic LLCs accordingly to the application (drug and biomacromolecule delivery, tissue engineering and molecular imaging) and route of administration is examined. Further discussion of the main limitations and perspectives of lipidic LLCs in biomedical applications are also provided. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Liquid crystals (LCs) are those systems between a solid and liquid state that possess unique morphological and physicochemical properties, translatable into a wide range of biomedical applications. A short description of the properties of LCs, their types and manufacturing procedures is given to serve as a background to the topic. Then, the latest and most innovative research in the field of biomedicine is examined, specifically the areas of drug and biomacromolecule delivery, tissue engineering and molecular imaging. Finally, prospects of LCs in biomedicine are discussed to show future trends and perspectives that might be utilized. This article is an ampliation, improvement and actualization of our previous short forum article "Bringing lipidic lyotropic liquid crystal technology into biomedicine" published in TIPS.

Core-Shell Type Lipidic and Polymeric Nanocapsules: the Transformative Multifaceted Delivery Systems

Amongst the several nano-drug delivery systems, lipid or polymer-based core-shell nanocapsules (NCs) have garnered much attention of researchers owing to its multidisciplinary properties and wide application. NCs are structured core-shell systems in which the core is an aqueous or oily phase protecting the encapsulated drug from environmental conditions, whereas the shell can be lipidic or polymeric. The core is stabilized by surfactant/lipids/polymers, which control the release of the drug. The presence of a plethora of biocompatible lipids and polymers with the provision of amicable surface modifications makes NCs an ideal choice for precise drug delivery. In the present article, multiple lipidic and polymeric NC (LNCs and PNCs) systems are described with an emphasis on fabrication methods and characterization techniques. Far-reaching applications as a carrier or delivery system are demonstrated for oral, parenteral, nasal, and transdermal routes of administration to enhance the bioavailability of hard-to-formulate drugs and to achieve sustained and targeted delivery. This review provide in depth understanding on core-shell NC's mechanism of absorption, surface modification, size tuning, and toxicity moderation which overshadows the drawbacks of conventional approaches. Additionally, the review shines a spotlight on the current challenges associated with core-shell NCs and applications in the foreseeable future.

Silibinin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) ameliorated cognitive deficits and oxidative damages in aluminum chloride-induced neurotoxicity in male mice

Aluminum chloride (AlCl3) and its accumulation in the brain are associated with neurodegenerative disease. Recent investigations have illustrated that silibinin is known to have neuroprotective properties. The present study investigates the neuroprotective effects of silibinin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (Sili-NLCs) against AlCl3-induced neurotoxicity in male mice. Sili-NLCs were prepared using the emulsification-solvent evaporation method and subjected to particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency (% EE) analysis. Mice were treated with AlCl3 (100 mg/kg/day, p.o.) and with the same concentration of silibinin and Sili-NLCs (50,100, and 200 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 30 days in different groups. After treating animals, behavioral studies were assessed. Also, the brain tissue samples were collected from all mice to evaluate oxidative damage and histological changes. The particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency (% EE) of prepared Sili-NLCs found 239.7 ± 4.04 nm, 0.082 ± 0.003, - 16.33 ± 0.15 mV, and 72.65 ± 2.03 %, respectively. Brain uptake studies showed that Sili-NLCs had a 5.7-fold greater uptake in the mice brain than the free drug. The AlCl3 caused significant cognitive impairment and increased the level of lipid peroxidation accompanied by decreasing antioxidant enzyme activity in the brain tissue. These findings correlated well with the histopathological experiments. Furthermore, treatment with Sili-NLCs significantly improved the AlCl3-induced cognitive impairment, neurochemical anomalies, and histopathological changes. Given these results, silibinin, when delivered using NLCs, is potentially more effective than free silibinin in decreasing AlCl3- induced neurotoxicity.

Silymarin-Encapsulated Xanthan Gum-Stabilized Selenium Nanocarriers for Enhanced Activity Against Amyloid Fibril Cytotoxicity

The accumulation of amyloid-beta at the neuronal sites is a major pathological hallmark involved in the etiology of Alzheimer's disease. To reduce the Aβ-induced neuronal cytotoxicity, selenium nanoparticles and silymarin were fabricated in a single polysaccharide matrix for dual antioxidant and Aβ fibril disaggregation activity. These nanoparticles were further stabilized by an exopolysaccharide xanthan gum. The nanoparticles were fabricated to reduce the amyloid-induced cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. A three-step method employing redox reaction of sodium selenite and ascorbic acid has been adopted for the synthesis of selenium nanoparticles. Consequently, xanthan gum powder was added to impart stability to the nanocarriers. The nanoparticles exhibited a particle size of 119.2 ± 2.8 nm, zeta potential of - 35.4 ± 3.8 mV, and % EE of 87.7 ± 2.23. HR-TEM with EDX analysis confirmed the presence of spherical nanoparticles. An in vitro drug release study exhibited 89.33 ± 5.4% release of silymarin from nanocarriers and was able to scavenge 90% free radicals of DPPH reagent. The thioflavin T (ThT) fibrillation kinetics study showed that the nanoparticles elicited maximum disaggregation of Aβ fibrils that was depicted by the quenched fluorescence intensity signal. The cell viability results revealed that the highest neuroprotection activity was observed in the cell group treated with SLY-XG-Se against Aβ _1-42-induced toxicity. The nanoparticles were able to internalize in SH-SY5Y cells. Our findings showed that the nanocarrier elicited anti-aggregation efficacy in neuronal cell lines and mitigated the Aβ-induced cytotoxicity, which represents the prospects of neuroprotection involved in the therapeutics of AD.

Formulation and Optimization of Silymarin Encapsulated Binary Micelles for Enhanced Amyloid Disaggregation Activity

Purpose-Silymarin (SLY) is natural hydrophobic polyphenol which possess antioxidant and amyloid fibril (Aβ_1-42) inhibition activity, but its activity hinders due to low aqueous solubility. In this study, SLY is encapsulated in Binary micelle (SLY-BM) that have been utilized to enhance the Aβ_1-42 fibril disaggregation. To enhance the aqueous solubility and SLY payload in micelles were optimized using Box Behnken Design (BBD) to increase the efficiency of Aβ_1-42 fibril disaggregation. BBD was employed to investigate the effect of ratio of Solutol HS15: Poloxamer-188, amount of acetone and hydration volume on critical quality attributes (CQA), particle size and entrapment efficiency for SLY-BM. Further SLY-BM was characterized for its physical and drug release properties. The Aβ_1-42 fibril disaggregation and antioxidant studies was monitored using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. BBD optimized the particle size <50 nm with % EE >80% and solubility factor of SLY-BM was enhanced to 460 folds than free SLY. Inhibitory concentration 50% (IC₅₀) value of SLY-BM was (19.67 µg/mL) compared to free SLY (30.06 µg/mL) in diphenylpicrahydrazyl (DPPH) assay. SLY-BM increased the Aβ _1-42 disaggregation compared to free SLY observed via thioflavin -T (ThT) assay, photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS), and Circular dichorism (CD). Further morphological evaluation of Aβ_1-42 disaggregation was monitored microscopy which showed SLY-BM disaggregated the fibrils in 48h. According to our findings, we concluded that SLY-BM micelles potential candidates for delivery of neuroprotective agents.

Relevance of bioassay of biologically active substances (BAS) with geroprotective properties in the model of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans in experiments in vivo

Aging is a process global in nature. The age of living organisms contributes to the appearance of chronic diseases, which not only reduce the quality of life, but also significantly damage it. Modern medicines can successfully fight multiple diseases and prolong life. At the same time, medications have a large number of side effects. New research indicates that bioactive phytochemicals have great potential for treating even the most severe diseases and can become an alternative to medicines. Despite many studies in this area, the effects of many plant ingredients on living organisms are poorly understood. Analysis of the mechanisms through which herbal preparations influence the aging process helps to select the right active substances, determine the optimal doses to obtain the maximum positive effect. It is preferable to check the effectiveness of plant extracts and biologically active components with geroprotective properties in vivo. For these purposes, live model systems such as Rattus rattus, Mus musculus, Drosophila melanogaster, and Caenorhabditis elegans are used. These models help to comprehensively study the impact of the developed new drugs on the aging process. The model organism C. elegans is gaining increasing popularity in these studies because of its many advantages. This review article discusses the advantages of the nematode C. elegans as a model organism for studying the processes associated with aging. The influence of various BAS and plant extracts on the increase in the life span of the nematode, on the increase in its stress resistance and on other markers of aging is also considered. The review showed that the nematode C. elegans has a number of advantages over other organisms and is a promising model system for studying the geroprotective properties of BAS.

Recapitulation of Evidence of Phytochemical, Pharmacokinetic and Biomedical Application of Silybin

Silymarin is a standardized extract obtained from seeds of Silybum marianum (SM) belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is a flavonolignan complex and consists of various compounds like silybin A silybin B, isosilybin A, isosilybin B, silydianin, silychristin and isosilychristin. Silybin is the major active component present in 60-70% of the silymarin extract. It has been used traditionally for the treatment of various liver disorders like cirrhosis, jaundice, and hepatitis. Silymarin possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is responsible for its antitumor activity. Other than hepatoprotective effect SM also possesses renoprotective, anti-diabetic, neuroprotective, hypolipidemic, anti-atherosclerosis and cardioprotective effects. Rather antimicrobial property of silymarin was observed against specific microbes, fungi, and viruses. This manuscript covered recent preclinical and clinical evidence of specific components silybin, responsible for its efficacy and about clinical studies has been conducted so far, which proven it's safety and offers mild effect like nausea, diarrhea and bloating. This review specifically focused on recent updates on its active components therapeutic applications against complicated ailments not covered in earlier reports.

Nano-lipidic formulation and therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease via intranasal route

AIM

The inability of drug molecules to cross the 'Blood-Brain Barrier' restrict the effective treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Lipid nanocarriers have proven to be a novel paradigm in brain targeting of bioactive by facilitating suitable therapeutic concentrations to be attained in the brain.

METHODS

The relevant information regarding the title of this review article was collected from the peer-reviewed published articles. Also, the physicochemical properties, and their in vitro and in vivo evaluations were presented in this review article.

RESULTS

Administration of lipid-based nano-carriers have abilities to target the brain, improve the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics properties of drugs, and mitigate the side effects of encapsulated therapeutic active agents.

CONCLUSION

Unlike oral and other routes, the Intranasal route promises high bioavailability, low first-pass effect, better pharmacokinetic properties, bypass of the systemic circulation, fewer incidences of unwanted side effects, and direct delivery of anti-AD drugs to the brain via circumventing 'Blood-Brain Barrier'.

Nanotechnological approaches for targeting amyloid-β aggregation with potential for neurodegenerative disease therapy and diagnosis

Neurodegenerative disorders can arise as a result of amyloid-β production and misfolding of its protein. The complex anatomy of the brain and the unresolved mechanics of the central nervous system hinder drug delivery; the brain is sheathed in a highly protective blood-brain barrier, a tightly packed layer of endothelial cells that restrict the entry of certain substances into the brain. Nanotechnology has achieved success in delivery to the brain, with preclinical assessments showing an acceptable concentration of active drugs in the therapeutic range, and nanoparticles can be fabricated to inhibit amyloid and enhance the delivery of the therapeutic molecule. This review focuses on the interactions of nanoparticles with amyloid-β aggregates and provides an assessment of their theranostic potential.

Role of Flavonoids in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Limitations and Future Perspectives

BACKGROUND

Flavonoids, a group of natural dietary polyphenols, are known for their beneficial effects on human health. By virtue of their various pharmacological effects, like anti-oxidative, antiinflammatory, anti-carcinogenic and neuroprotective effects, flavonoids have now become an important component of herbal supplements, pharmaceuticals, medicinals and cosmetics. There has been enormous literature supporting neuroprotective effect of flavonoids. Recently their efficacy in various neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson diseases, has received particular attention.

OBJECTIVE

The mechanism of flavanoids neuroprotection might include antioxidant, antiapoptotic, antineuroinflammatory and modulation of various cellular and intracellular targets. In in-vivo systems, before reaching to brain, they have to cross barriers like extensive first pass metabolism, intestinal barrier and ultimately blood brain barrier. Different flavonoids have varied pharmacokinetic characteristics, which affect their pharmacodynamic profile. Therefore, brain accessibility of flavonoids is still debatable.

METHODS

This review emphasized on current trends of research and development on flavonoids, especially in neurodegenerative diseases, possible challenges and strategies to encounter using novel drug delivery system.

RESULTS

Various flavonoids have elicited their therapeutic potential against neurodegenerative diseases, however by using nanotechnology and novel drug delivery systems, the bioavailability of favonoids could be enhanced.

CONCLUSION

This study bridges a significant opinion on medicinal chemistry, ethanopharmacology and new drug delivery research regarding use of flavonoids in management of neurodegeneration.

Intranasal versus intraperitoneal Myrj 59-stabilized cubosomes: A potential armamentarium of effective anti-diabetic therapy

The present study is concerned with the suitability of using Myrj 59, out-performing the commonly used stabilizer i.e., poloxamer, for preparation of cubosomes on one hand and gives an insight into the need for distinctive choice of delivery system and administration route towards better diabetes pharmacotherapy on the other hand. In light, repaglinide (REP) cubosomal dispersion and in-situ gel forms were prepared and physicochemically characterized. The selected cubosomal forms were tested for in-vitro drug release and administered via intranasal (IN) and intraperitoneal (IP) routes and compared with Intravenous (IV) REP solution regarding in-vivo antidiabetic efficacy. The results confirmed the formation of cubic nanostructures (170-233 nm), entrapping high REP amounts (93.2-95.66 %). Sustained REP release from selected cubosomal forms was realized with no burst release. Upon in-vivo assessment, IN and IP REP cubosomes and cubosomal gel exhibited superior long-acting in-vivo traits over IV REP solution, respecting percentages of maximum reduction, total decrease in BG levels, and the pharmacological availability. Moreover, IP REP cubosomes and cubosomal gel revealed higher values of the aforementioned parameters than IN counterparts. In conclusion, IN and IP administration of the newly developed cubosomal forms could proffer feasible options for an optimal control of BG levels.

Competing Endogenous RNA Networks as Biomarkers in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Protein aggregation is classically considered the main cause of neuronal death in neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). However, increasing evidence suggests that alteration of RNA metabolism is a key factor in the etiopathogenesis of these complex disorders. Non-coding RNAs are the major contributor to the human transcriptome and are particularly abundant in the central nervous system, where they have been proposed to be involved in the onset and development of NDDs. Interestingly, some ncRNAs (such as lncRNAs, circRNAs and pseudogenes) share a common functionality in their ability to regulate gene expression by modulating miRNAs in a phenomenon known as the competing endogenous RNA mechanism. Moreover, ncRNAs are found in body fluids where their presence and concentration could serve as potential non-invasive biomarkers of NDDs. In this review, we summarize the ceRNA networks described in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and spinocerebellar ataxia type 7, and discuss their potential as biomarkers of these NDDs. Although numerous studies have been carried out, further research is needed to validate these complex interactions between RNAs and the alterations in RNA editing that could provide specific ceRNET profiles for neurodegenerative disorders, paving the way to a better understanding of these diseases.

Silymarin and neurodegenerative diseases: Therapeutic potential and basic molecular mechanisms

BACKGROUND

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are primarily characterized by selective neuronal loss in the brain. Alzheimer's disease as the most common NDDs and the most prevalent cause of dementia is characterized by Amyloid-beta deposition, which leads to cognitive and memory impairment. Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by the dramatic death of dopaminergic neuronal cells, especially in the SNc and caused alpha-synuclein accumulation in the neurons. Silymarin, an extract from seeds of Silybum marianum, administered mostly for liver disorders and also had anti-oxidant and anti-carcinogenic activities.

PURPOSE

The present comprehensive review summarizes the beneficial effects of Silymarin in-vivo and in-vitro and even in animal models for these NDDs.

METHODS

A diagram model for systematic review is utilized for this search. The research is conducted in the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct.

RESULTS

Based on the inclusion criteria, 83 studies were selected and discussed in this review.

CONCLUSION

Lastly, we review the latest experimental evidences supporting the potential effects of Silymarin, as a neuroprotective agent in NDDs.

Manganese-induced neurodegenerative diseases and possible therapeutic approaches

INTRODUCTION

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and prion disease represent important public health concerns. Exposure to high levels of  heavy metals such as manganese (Mn) may contribute to their development.

AREAS COVERED

In this critical review, we address the role of Mn in the etiology of neurodegenerative diseases and discuss emerging treatments of Mn overload, such as chelation therapy. In addition, we discuss natural and synthetic compounds under development as prospective therapeutics. Moreover, bioinformatic approaches to identify new potential targets and therapeutic substances to reverse the neurodegenerative diseases are discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

Here, the authors highlight the importance of better understanding the molecular mechanisms of toxicity associated with neurodegenerative diseases, and the role of Mn in these diseases. Additional emphasis should be directed to the discovery of new agents to treat Mn-induced diseases, since present day chelator therapies have limited bioavailability. Furthermore, the authors encourage the scientific community to develop research using libraries of compounds to screen those compounds that show efficacy in regulating brain Mn levels. In addition, bioinformatics may provide novel insight for pathways and clinical treatments associated with Mn-induced neurodegeneration, leading to a new direction in Mn toxicological research.