Evaluation of cytotoxicity of oils used in coenzyme Q10 Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SEDDS)

Self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) disrupt the gut microbiota and trigger an intestinal inflammatory response in rats

Self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (i.e. SEDDS, SMEDDS and SNEDDS) are widely employed as solubility and bioavailability enhancing formulation strategies for poorly water-soluble drugs. Despite the capacity for SEDDS to effectively facilitate oral drug absorption, tolerability concerns exist due to the capacity for high concentrations of surfactants (typically present within SEDDS) to induce gastrointestinal toxicity and mucosal irritation. With new knowledge surrounding the role of the gut microbiota in modulating intestinal inflammation and mucosal injury, there is a clear need to determine the impact of SEDDS on the gut microbiota. The current study is the first of its kind to demonstrate the detrimental impact of SEDDS on the gut microbiota of Sprague-Dawley rats, following daily oral administration (100 mg/kg) for 21 days. SEDDS comprising a lipid phase (i.e. Type I, II and III formulations according to the Lipid Formulation Classification Scheme) induced significant changes to the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota, evidenced through a reduction in operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and alpha diversity (Shannon's index), along with statistically significant shifts in beta diversity (according to PERMANOVA of multi-dimensional Bray-Curtis plots). Key signatures of gut microbiota dysbiosis correlated with the increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines within the jejunum, while mucosal injury was characterised by significant reductions in plasma citrulline levels, a validated biomarker of enterocyte mass and mucosal barrier integrity. These findings have potential clinical ramifications for chronically administered drugs that are formulated with SEDDS and stresses the need for further studies that investigate dose-dependent effects of SEDDS on the gastrointestinal microenvironment in a clinical setting.

Development and Evaluation of a Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System for Sinapic Acid with Improved Antiviral Efficacy against SARS-CoV-2

This study aimed to develop a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNE) for sinapic acid (SA) to improve its solubility and antiviral activity. Optimal components for the SA-SNE formulation were selected, including Labrafil as the oil, Cremophor EL as the surfactant, and Transcutol as the co-surfactant. The formulation was optimized using surface response design, and the optimized SA-SNE formulation exhibited a small globule size of 83.6 nm, high solubility up to 127.1 ± 3.3, and a 100% transmittance. In vitro release studies demonstrated rapid and high SA release from the formulation. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed improved bioavailability by 2.43 times, and the optimized SA-SNE formulation exhibited potent antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. The developed SA-SNE formulation can enhance SA's therapeutic efficacy by improving its solubility, bioavailability, and antiviral activity. Further in silico, modeling, and Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics (GaMD)-based studies revealed that SA could interact with and inhibit the viral main protease (Mpro). This research contributes to developing effective drug delivery systems for poorly soluble drugs like SA, opening new possibilities for their application via nebulization in SARS-CoV-2 therapy.

Formulation and Characterization of Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery System (SMEDDS) of Sertraline Hydrochloride

BACKGROUND

Sertraline hydrochloride is the most widely used selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) for the treatment of several depressive disorders. Its applicability is limited due to extensive metabolism and poor oral bioavailability of 44 %.

OBJECTIVE

The current research focused on improving the solubility and oral bioavailability of Sertraline by using microemulsions developed by a self-micro emulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) for significant antidepressant action.

METHOD

SMEDDS were developed by selecting appropriate proportions of oil, surfactant, and co-solvents and out of them isopropyl myristate, tween 80 and propylene glycol were identified as best. The emulsification zone was demonstrated by a ternary phase diagram, and compatibility was confirmed with Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The formulated SMEDDS were characterized for robustness to dilution, globule size (GS), polydispersity index (PDI), viscosity, in-vitro dissolution and diffusion study, and drug release kinetics study.

RESULTS

All the batches (A1-A9) passes the test and A3 was selected as an optimized batch that doesn't show phase separation, precipitation with globule size (101 nm), PDI (0.319), drug content (99.14±0.35 %), viscosity (10.71±0.02 mPa), self-emulsification time (46 sec), in-vitro drug release (98.25±0.22 %) within 8 h, release kinetics (Higuchi) and effective antidepressant in in-vitro diffusion studies.

CONCLUSION

An optimized batch A3 observed circular in shape estimated by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and passes all the thermodynamic stability testing with loss of 0.271 mg of the drug after 90 days and showed marked antidepressant action with higher stability.

A Double-Pronged Sword: XJB-5-131 Is a Suppressor of Somatic Instability and Toxicity in Huntington's Disease

Due to large increases in the elderly populations across the world, age-related diseases are expected to expand dramatically in the coming years. Among these, neurodegenerative diseases will be among the most devastating in terms of their emotional and economic impact on patients, their families, and associated subsidized health costs. There is no currently available cure or rescue for dying brain cells. Viable therapeutics for any of these disorders would be a breakthrough and provide relief for the large number of affected patients and their families. Neurodegeneration is accompanied by elevated oxidative damage and inflammation. While natural antioxidants have largely failed in clinical trials, preclinical phenotyping of the unnatural, mitochondrial targeted nitroxide, XJB-5-131, bodes well for further translational development in advanced animal models or in humans. Here we consider the usefulness of synthetic antioxidants for the treatment of Huntington's disease. The mitochondrial targeting properties of XJB-5-131 have great promise. It is both an electron scavenger and an antioxidant, reducing both somatic expansion and toxicity simultaneously through the same redox mechanism. By quenching reactive oxygen species, XJB-5-131 breaks the cycle between the rise in oxidative damage during disease progression and the somatic growth of the CAG repeat which depends on oxidation.

Self-emulsifying Drug Delivery System Improve Oral Bioavailability: Role of Excipients and Physico-chemical Characterization

Self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) is a kind of solid or liquid formulation composed of drugs, oil, surfactant and cosurfactant. It could form a fine emulsion (micro/nano) in the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Later on, the formed emulsion is absorbed through the lymphatic pathway. The oral bioavailability of drugs in SEDDS would be improved for bypassing the first-pass effect of the liver. Therefore, SEDDS has become a vital strategy to increase the oral bioavailability of poor watersoluble drugs. In addition, there is no aqueous phase in SEDDS, thus SEDDS is a homogeneous system, consequently being suitable for large-scale production and more stable than conventional emulsion. However, the role of formulation aspects in the biological property of SEDDS is not fully clear. In order to prepare the satisfying SEDDS to improve oral drug bioavailability, we need to fully understand the various factors that affect the in vivo behavior of SEDDS. In this review, we would explore the role of ingredient (drugs, oils, surfactant and cosurfactant) of SEDDS in increasing oral drug bioavailability. We would also discuss the effect of physicochemical property (particle size and zeta potential) of SEDDS on the oral drug bioavailability enhancement. This review would provide an approach to develop a rational SEDDS to improving oral drug bioavailability. Lay Summary: Self-emulsifying drug-delivery system (SEDDS) has been proven to be promising in ameliorating the oral bioavailability of poor water-soluble drugs. This review highlighted the influence of excipients and physicochemical property of SEDDS on the formation of emulsion and the oral absorption of drugs in the body.

Orally administered self-emulsifying drug delivery system in disease management: advancement and patents

Introduction: Oral administration of a drug is the most common, ideal and preferred route of administration. The main problem of oral drug formulations is their low bioavailability arises from poor aqueous solubility of drug. Aqueous solubility of lipophilic drugs can be improved by various techniques like salt formation, complexation, addition of co-solvent etc. but self-emulsifying drug-delivery system (SEDDS) is getting more attention for increasing the solubility of such drugs. The SEDDS is an isotropic mixture of drug, lipids, and emulsifiers, usually with one or more hydrophilic co-solvents/co-emulsifiers. This system is having ability to generate oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions or microemulsions upon gentle agitation followed by dilution with aqueous phase. The SEDDSs are relatively newer, lipid-based technological innovations possessing unparalleled potential in improving oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs.Areas covered: This review provides updated information regarding the types of SEDDS, their preparation techniques, drug delivery and related recent patents along with marketed formulations.Expert opinion: The SEDDS has been explored for improving bioavailability, rising intra-subject heterogeneity, and increasing solubility. SEDDS offers the benefit of a protective effect against the hostile environment in the gut. The unique fabrication techniques provide specific strategy to overcome the low bioavailability and poor solubility problems.

The Combined Effects of Co-Culture and Substrate Mechanics on 3D Tumor Spheroid Formation within Microgels Prepared via Flow-Focusing Microfluidic Fabrication

Tumor spheroids are considered a valuable three dimensional (3D) tissue model to study various aspects of tumor physiology for biomedical applications such as tissue engineering and drug screening as well as basic scientific endeavors, as several cell types can efficiently form spheroids by themselves in both suspension and adherent cell cultures. However, it is more desirable to utilize a 3D scaffold with tunable properties to create more physiologically relevant tumor spheroids as well as optimize their formation. In this study, bioactive spherical microgels supporting 3D cell culture are fabricated by a flow-focusing microfluidic device. Uniform-sized aqueous droplets of gel precursor solution dispersed with cells generated by the microfluidic device are photocrosslinked to fabricate cell-laden microgels. Their mechanical properties are controlled by the concentration of gel-forming polymer. Using breast adenocarcinoma cells, MCF-7, the effect of mechanical properties of microgels on their proliferation and the eventual spheroid formation was explored. Furthermore, the tumor cells are co-cultured with macrophages of fibroblasts, which are known to play a prominent role in tumor physiology, within the microgels to explore their role in spheroid formation. Taken together, the results from this study provide the design strategy for creating tumor spheroids utilizing mechanically-tunable microgels as 3D cell culture platform.

Impact of digestion on the transport of dextran-loaded self-emulsified nanoemulsion through MDCK epithelial cell monolayer and rat intestines

Many of the lipids and surfactants used to prepare the self-emulsified nanoemulsion (SEN) are subjected to the gastro-intestinal enzymatic digestion, which may affect the absorption of the loaded drug. The present study was to investigate the impact of such digestion on the transport of hydrophilic macromolecules (10-kDa dextran as the model compound) loaded in SEN through the MDCK cell monolayer and ex-vivo rat intestines. FITC-labeled dextran (FD) was loaded inside the inner oil phase of SEN by the formation of FD-phospholipid solid dispersion (FDPS). After digestion, the droplet size increased from 31.06 ± 2.10 nm to 494.6 ± 22.1 nm, and the FD content in the external aqueous phase increased from 41.6 ± 4.2% to 61.1 ± 4.4%. Compared to the FD solution, SEN without digestion enhanced the transport of FD through MDCK cell monolayer 4.1 times and through rat intestines 3.0-7.4 times. However, the digestion reduced the transport of FD 3.5 times through MDCK cell monolayer and 1.3-2.0 times through rat intestines, compared to that without digestion. This reduction was due to the destruction of lipid nano-droplets and release of FD to the external aqueous phase of SEN. This finding should be considered when SEN is used as a delivery system for hydrophilic macromolecules.

Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems Containing Plantago lanceolata-An Assessment of Their Antioxidant and Antiinflammatory Effects

The most important components of Plantago lanceolata L. leaves are catalpol, aucubin, and acteoside (=verbascoside). These bioactive compounds possess different pharmacological effects: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antineoplastic, and hepatoprotective. The aim of this study was to protect Plantago lanceolata extract from hydrolysis and to improve its antioxidant effect using self-nano-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS). Eight SNEDDS compositions were prepared, and their physical properties, in vitro cytotoxicity, and in vivo AST/ALT values were investigated. MTT cell viability assay was performed on Caco-2 cells. The well-diluted samples (200 to 1000-fold dilutions) proved to be non-cytotoxic. The acute administration of PL-SNEDDS compositions resulted in minor changes in hepatic markers (AST, ALT), except for compositions 4 and 8 due to their high Transcutol contents (80%). The non-toxic compositions showed a significant increase in free radical scavenger activity measured by the DPPH test compared to the blank SNEDDS. An indirect dissolution test was performed, based on the result of the DPPH antioxidant assay; the dissolution profiles of Plantago lancolata extract were statistically different from each SNEDDS. The anti-inflammatory effect of PL-SNEDDS compositions was confirmed by the ear inflammation test. For the complete examination period, all compositions decreased ear edema as compared to the positive (untreated) control. It can be concluded that PL-SNEDDS compositions could be used to deliver active natural compounds in a stable, efficient, and safe manner.

Development and in vitro/in vivo performance of self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems loaded with candesartan cilexetil

Candesartan cilexetil is widely used in the management of hypertension and heart failure. The drug delivery encounters obstacles of poor aqueous solubility, efflux by intestinal P-glycoprotein and vulnerability to enzymatic degradation in small intestine. Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) loaded with candesartan cilexetil were successfully developed to overcome such obstacles. Preliminary screening was carried out to select proper surfactant, co-surfactant and oil combination for successful SNEDDS formulation. All screened excipients were reported for their P-glycoprotein and cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) modulation activity. Ternary and pseudo ternary diagrams were constructed to optimize the system. Peppermint oil and clove oil showed a high emulsification ability. The nature of obtained dispersions was identified to be nanoemulsions. Twenty-four formulations were evaluated for stability, robustness to dilution and self-emulsification efficiency. All formulations showed a very short emulsification time of <2min. The emulsification efficiency was significantly superior at pH6.8, at which the largest self-emulsifying region was also observed. Eight formulations were selected for further characterization according to cloud point measurement; mean droplet size, poly dispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential determination in addition to in vitro drug release study. All selected formulations showed very high cloud points (70-90°C), ultrafine mean droplet size (12±1.4 to 24.5±2.13nm), very low PDI values (0.015-0.1305) and almost a complete drug release after 12h. Formulation F15 (Peppermint oil 55% w/w: Cremophor RH40 25% w/w: Labrasol 20% w/w) was selected for further characterization. Its droplet size showed robustness to different dilution folds with different media and its TEM photograph showed spherical particles without any apparent aggregation even after 24h. Formulation F15 successfully controlled the systolic blood pressure of hypertensive rats for 24h with the maximum effect was observed after 2h. These results indicate that, SNEDDS could be promising delivery systems with a rapid onset of action and prolonged therapeutic effect of candesartan cilexetil.

Development and in vitro characterization of a papain loaded mucolytic self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS)

The aim of the study was to create a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) with mucolytic properties based on incorporated papain for improved mucus permeation. In order to increase the lipophilicity of the enzyme and to dissolve it in SEDDS, hydrophobic ion pairing with sodium deoxycholate in a molar ratio of 20:1 (surfactant: enzyme) was performed. The yield of precipitated papain was 86.8±2.7% and the ion pair was loaded into the formulations to 1% (m/m). Suitable formulations were chosen according to their properties to dissolve the ion pair and characterized regarding droplet size and polydispersity index. Prepared emulsions were in a droplet size range between 50 and 120nm. Enzyme activity assay of complex and loaded SEDDS was conducted to ensure proteolytic qualities for following permeation and diffusion studies. SEDDS loaded with the ion pair showed an almost 2-fold increase in mucus permeation compared to the control without complex. Furthermore, 3-fold enhanced mucus diffusion could be confirmed in a second assay and an increase of mucosal residence on porcine intestinal mucosa up to 3- and 5-fold was observed as against the blank formulations. Consequently the incorporation of enzymes exhibiting proteolytic properties in self-emulsifying drug delivery systems may be considered as a promising strategy to enhance mucus permeation and overcome intestinal barriers.

Efficacy of Pre- and Post-Treatment by Topical Formulations Containing Dissolved and Suspended Silybum marianum against UVB-Induced Oxidative Stress in Guinea Pig and on HaCaT Keratinocytes

Plants with high amounts of antioxidants may be a promising therapy for preventing and curing UV-induced oxidative skin damage. The objective of this study was to verify the efficacy of topical formulations containing dissolved and suspended Silybum marianum extract against UVB-induced oxidative stress in guinea pig and HaCaT keratinocytes. Herbal extract was dissolved in Transcutol HP (TC) and sucrose-esters were incorporated as penetration enhancers in creams. Biocompatibility of compositions was tested on HeLa cells and HaCaT keratinocytes as in vitro models. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) tests were performed to prove the safety of formulations in vivo. Drug release of different compositions was assessed by Franz diffusion methods. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) activities were evaluated before and after UVB irradiation in a guinea pig model and HaCaT cells. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) enzyme activity was measured in the epidermis of guinea pigs treated by different creams before and after UVB irradiation. Treatment with compositions containing silymarin powder (SM) dissolved in TC and sucrose stearate SP 50 or SP 70 resulted in increased activities of all reactive oxygen species (ROS) eliminating enzymes in the case of pre- and post-treatment as well. Reduction in the levels of lipid peroxidation end products was also detected after treatment with these two compositions. Post-treatment was more effective as the increase of the activity of antioxidants was higher. Lower HO-1 enzyme levels were measured in the case of pre- and post-treatment groups compared to control groups. Therefore, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of topical formulations containing silymarin in inhibiting UVB irradiation induced oxidative stress of the skin.

Development, optimization and in vitro evaluation of norcantharidin loadedself-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (NCTD-SNEDDS)

This study focused on developing a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) containing bioactive surfactants under an efficient screening approach for overcoming problems associated with the delivery of norcantharidin (NCTD), a high dose chemotherapy agent having pH dependent solubility. Preliminary screening was implemented to select proper components combination. Besides the solubility of NCTD in the oil phase, emulsifying efficiency, droplet size and size distribution were also employed to select components of the SNEDDS. Moreover, the influence of surfactant and co-surfactant on the interfacial tension and droplets of nanoemulsions were investigated to further understand the mechanism of spontaneous emulsification. Co-surfactant addition promoted the emulsification via reducing the water/oil interfacial tension and viscosity. Ternary phase diagrams were constructed to investigate the phase behavior and designate the optimum systems. The alternative formulations were characterized for cloud point, dilution robustness, droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In vitro dissolution study showed that the dissolution rate of optimized formulation (NCTD 10 mg/g, EO 50 wt.%, Cremophor EL 35 wt.%, ethylene glycol 15 wt.%) was slower than drug suspension under the same conditions, confirming that the developed SNEDDS formulation would exhibit sustained release potential.

Mitochondrial targeting of XJB-5-131 attenuates or improves pathophysiology in HdhQ150 animals with well-developed disease phenotypes

Oxidative damage to mitochondria (MT) is a major mechanism for aging and neurodegeneration. We have developed a novel synthetic antioxidant, XJB-5-131, which directly targets MT, the primary site and primary target of oxidative damage. XJB-5-131 prevents the onset of motor decline in an HdhQ(150/150) mouse model for Huntington's disease (HD) if treatment starts early. Here, we report that XJB-5-131 attenuates or reverses disease progression if treatment occurs after disease onset. In animals with well-developed pathology, XJB-5-131 promotes weight gain, prevents neuronal death, reduces oxidative damage in neurons, suppresses the decline of motor performance or improves it, and reduces a graying phenotype in treated HdhQ(150/150) animals relative to matched littermate controls. XJB-5-131 holds promise as a clinical candidate for the treatment of HD.

Development of an α-linolenic acid containing soft nanocarrier for oral delivery: in vitro and in vivo evaluation

Use of α-linolenic acid as an oil phase for microemulsion preparation with synergistic effect of oil in lowering of lipid levels in combination with simvastatin.

The enhanced inhibitory effect of different antitumor agents in self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems on human cervical cancer HeLa cells

The aim of this study was to develop topical self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) containing antitumor agents (bleomycin, cisplatin and ifosfamide) and to investigate their inhibitory potential in SMEDDS on human cervical cancer HeLa cells. The physicochemical properties of cytostatic drug loaded SMEDDS were characterized. The cytotoxicity of main components of SMEDDS was also investigated. Their IC₅₀ values were determined. HeLa cells were treated by different concentrations of cisplatin, bleomycin and ifosfamide alone and in various SMEDDS. The inhibitory effect on cell growth was analyzed by MTT cell viability assay. Inflammation is a driving force that accelerates cancer development. The inhibitory effect of these antitumor agents has also been tested on HeLa cells in the presence of inflammatory mediators (IL-1-β, TNF-α) as an in vitro model of inflamed human cervix. Significant differences in the cytotoxicity of cytostatic drugs alone and in SMEDDS have been found in a concentration-dependent manner. The self-micro emulsifying system may potentiate the effectiveness of bleomycin, cisplatin and ifosfamide topically. The effect of SMEDDS containing antitumor agents was decreased significantly in the presence of inflammatory mediators. According to our experiments, the optimal SMEDDS formulation is 1:1:2:6:2 ratios of Isopropyl myristate, Capryol 90, Kolliphor RH 40, Cremophor RH40, Transcutol HP and Labrasol. It can be concluded that SMEDDS may increase the inhibitory effect of bleomycin, ifosfamide and cisplatin on human cervical cancer HeLa cells. Inflammation on HeLa cells hinders the effectiveness of SMEDDS containing antitumor agents. Our results might ensure useful data for development of optimal antitumor formulations.

Systematic development of novel cationic self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems of candesartan cilexetil with enhanced biopharmaceutical performance

The current studies entail systematic development, optimization and evaluation of cationic self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (C-SNEDDS) for enhancing the oral bioavailability of candesartan cilexetil.

Strategies for oral delivery and mitochondrial targeting of CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone or ubidecarenone, is a powerful, endogenously produced, intracellularly existing lipophilic antioxidant. It combats reactive oxygen species (ROS) known to be responsible for a variety of human pathological conditions. Its target site is the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) of each cell. In case of deficiency and/or aging, CoQ10 oral supplementation is warranted. However, CoQ10 has low oral bioavailability due to its lipophilic nature, large molecular weight, regional differences in its gastrointestinal permeability and involvement of multitransporters. Intracellular delivery and mitochondrial target ability issues pose additional hurdles. To maximize CoQ10 delivery to its biopharmaceutical target, numerous approaches have been undertaken. The review summaries the current research on CoQ10 bioavailability and highlights the headways to obtain a satisfactory intracellular and targeted mitochondrial delivery. Unresolved questions and research gaps were identified to bring this promising natural product to the forefront of therapeutic agents for treatment of different pathologies.

Potentials and challenges in self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems

INTRODUCTION

A significant number of new chemical entities (almost 40%), that are outcome of contemporary drug discovery programs, have a potential therapeutic promise for patient, as they are highly potent but poorly water soluble resulting in reduced oral bioavailability. Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) have emerged as a vital strategy to formulate these poorly soluble compounds for bioavailability enhancement.

AREAS COVERED

The review gives an insight about potential of SNEDDS with regards to oral drug delivery. The effect of various key constituents on formulation of SNEDDS and their applications in oral drug delivery is also discussed. Various aspects of formulation, characterization and biopharmaceutical aspects of SNEDDS are also been explored. The choice and selection of excipients for development of SNEDDS is also discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

The ability of SNEDDS to present the drug in single unit dosage form either as soft or hard gelatin capsule with enhanced solubility maintaining the uniformity of dose is unique. With the ease of large-scale production, high drug-loading capacity, improvement in release behavior of poorly water-soluble drugs and improvement of oral bioavailability, SNEDDS have emerged as preferable system for the formulation of drug compounds with bioavailability problems due to poor aqueous solubility.

Novel solid self-emulsifying drug delivery system of coenzyme Q₁₀ with improved photochemical and pharmacokinetic behaviors

The present study was undertaken to develop a solid self-emulsifying drug delivery system of coenzyme Q(10) (CoQ(10)/s-SEDDS) with high photostability and oral bioavailability. The CoQ(10)/s-SEDDS was prepared by spray-drying an emulsion preconcentrate containing CoQ(10), medium-chain triglyceride, sucrose ester of fatty acid, and hydroxypropyl cellulose, and its physicochemical, photochemical, and pharmacokinetic properties were evaluated. The CoQ(10)/s-SEDDS powder with a diameter of ca. 15 μm was obtained by spray-drying, in which the CoQ(10) was mostly amorphized. The CoQ(10)/s-SEDDS exhibited immediate self-emulsification when introduced to aqueous media under gentle agitation, forming uniform fine droplets with a mean diameter of ca. 280 nm. There was marked generation of reactive oxygen species, in particular superoxide, from CoQ(10) exposed to simulated sunlight (250W/m(2)), suggesting potent photoreactivity. Nano-emulsified solution of CoQ(10) under light exposure underwent photodegradation with 22-fold higher degradation kinetics than crystalline CoQ(10), although the CoQ(10)/s-SEDDS was less photoreactive. After the oral administration of CoQ(10)/s-SEDDS (100 mg-CoQ(10)/kg) in rats, enhanced exposure of CoQ(10) was observed with increases in both C(max) and AUC of ca. 5-fold in comparison with those of orally administered crystalline CoQ(10). From the improved physicochemical and pharmacokinetic data, the s-SEDDS approach upon spray-drying might be a suitable dosage option for enhancing nutraceutical and pharmaceutical values of CoQ(10).

Development, characterization, and in vitro evaluation of tamoxifen microemulsions

Microemulsions (MEs) were designed by an innovative rational development, characterized, and used to load up to 20 mM of Tamoxifen citrate (TMX). They were made with acceptable and well-characterized excipients for all the routes of administration. Some of their properties, such as nanometric mean size and long stability shelf life, make them interesting drug delivery systems. The results obtained after the in vitro inhibition of estradiol-induced proliferation in MCF-7 breast cancer cells demonstrated a significant effect in cell growth. A decreasing of at least 90% in viable cells was shown after the incubation with MEs containing 20 mM of TMX. Besides, two compositions which loaded 10 mM of drug showed a cytotoxic effect higher than 70%. These results encourage the evaluation of alternative protocols for this drug administration, not only for estrogen receptor (ER) positive tumors, but also for ER negative.

Food-grade nanoemulsions: formulation, fabrication, properties, performance, biological fate, and potential toxicity

Nanoemulsions fabricated from food-grade ingredients are being increasingly utilized in the food industry to encapsulate, protect, and deliver lipophilic functional components, such as biologically-active lipids (e.g., ω-3 fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid) and oil-soluble flavors, vitamins, preservatives, and nutraceuticals. The small size of the particles in nanoemulsions (r<100 nm) means that they have a number of potential advantages over conventional emulsions-higher stability to droplet aggregation and gravitational separation, high optical clarity, ability to modulate product texture, and, increased bioavailability of lipophilic components. On the other hand, there may also be some risks associated with the oral ingestion of nanoemulsions, such as their ability to change the biological fate of bioactive components within the gastrointestinal tract and the potential toxicity of some of the components used in their fabrication. This review article provides an overview of the current status of nanoemulsion formulation, fabrication, properties, applications, biological fate, and potential toxicity with emphasis on systems suitable for utilization within the food and beverage industry.

Therapeutic use of coenzyme Q10 and coenzyme Q10-related compounds and formulations

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD

Coenzyme Q(10) (CoQ(10)) is found in blood and in all organs. CoQ(10) deficiencies are due to autosomal recessive mutations, ageing-related oxidative stress and carcinogenesis processes, and also statin treatment. Many neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, cancer and muscular and cardiovascular diseases have been associated with low CoQ(10) levels, as well as different ataxias and encephalomyopathies.

AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW

We review the efficacy of a variety of commercial formulations which have been developed to solubilise CoQ(10) and promote its better absorption in vivo, and its use in the therapy of pathologies associated with low CoQ(10) levels, with emphasis in the results of the clinical trials. Also, we review the use of its analogues idebenone and MitoQ.

WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN

This review covers the most relevant aspects related with the therapeutic use of CoQ(10), including existing formulations and their effects on its bioavailability.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

CoQ(10) does not cause serious adverse effects in humans and new formulations have been developed that increase CoQ(10) absorption. Oral CoQ(10) is a viable antioxidant strategy in many diseases, providing a significant to mild symptomatic benefit. Idebenone and MitoQ are promising substitutive CoQ(10)-related drugs which are well tolerated and safe.

Effect of Coenzyme Q10 Incorporation on the Characteristics of Nanoliposomes

Coenzyme Q(10) (CoQ(10)) is incorporated in nanoliposomes composed of egg yolk phospholipid, cholesterol, and Tween 80. Atomic force microscopy, performed to characterize vesicle surface topology, shows some visible influence of CoQ(10) on the nanoliposomal structure. CoQ(10) incorporation can suppress the increase of the z-average diameter of nanoliposomes during storage for 8 months at 4 degrees C. The liposomal lipid peroxidation caused by Fe(III)/ascorbate is also significantly inhibited. Perturbation of acyl chain motion of lipids due to the presence of CoQ(10) in the bilayer is examined by fluorescence probe diphenyl-hexatriene and Raman spectroscopy. Fluorescence probe studies indicate that CoQ(10) incorporation results in the microviscosity increase of nanoliposomes. The steric structure of nanoliposomes reflected by Raman spectroscopy changes obviously and shows CoQ(10) content dependency. The order parameters for the lateral interaction between chains increase. The trans conformation decrease and the gauche conformation increase as the weight contents of CoQ(10) incorporation are at 1%, 5%, 10%, and 32.5%. However, the order parameters for the longitudinal interaction in chains was higher than that of pure nanoliposomes as the weight content of CoQ(10) is at 25%. Results suggest that CoQ(10)might intercalate between lipid molecules and perturb the bilayer structure.

Bioavailability assessment of vitamin A self-nanoemulsified drug delivery systems in rats: a comparative study

OBJECTIVES

To assess and compare the bioavailability of three different oral dosage forms of vitamin A in rats. The formulations included vitamin A self-nanoemulsified drug delivery (SNEDD) optimized formulation-filled capsule (F1), vitamin A SNEDD optimized formulation compressed tablet (F2) and vitamin A oily solution-filled capsules without any additives (control, F3).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bioavailability was assessed after a single oral dose of the three formulations using three groups of rats, each group comprising 6 rats. Blood samples were collected at baseline and over the next 8 h. Plasma was separated and extracted to obtain the drug, which was measured by HPLC. Statistical data analysis was performed using the Student t test and ANOVA with p < 0.05 as the minimal level of significance.

RESULTS

From the pharmacokinetic parameters, both F1 and F2 showed improved bioavailability compared to F3. The values of AUC +/- SD were 3,080.7 +/- 190.2, 2,137.1 +/- 130.5 and 1,485.2 +/- 80.1 ng x h/ml for F1, F2 and F3, respectively. The Tmax was 1 h in case of F1 and F2 as compared to 1.5 h for F3. The Cmax +/- SD was 799.5 +/- 48.5, 656.2 +/- 64.4 and 425.8 +/- 33.1 for F1, F2 and F3, respectively. The increase in AUC, Cmax and Tmax was significant (p < 0.05). The bioavailability calculated from the AUC for F1 and F2 relative to F3 was 207.4 and 143.8%, respectively. The bioavailability increased almost twofold and 1.4 times for F1 and F2, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The study showed that the newly developed vitamin A SNEDD formulations increased the rate and extent of drug absorption compared to the oily drug solution. The present investigation demonstrated that vitamin A SNEDD optimized formulations, either as filled capsules or as compressed tablets, were superior to its oily solution with regard to their biopharmaceutical characteristics.

Optimization in the preparation of coenzyme Q10 nanoliposomes

The optimal formulation of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) nanoliposomes and the feasibility of production in a pilot scale were investigated. The nanoliposomes were prepared by ethanol injection and sonication techniques for a desired vesicle size in the laboratory. Optimization of formulation in the preparation of CoQ10 nanoliposomes was achieved by an orthogonal array design. The best formulation was found to be phospholipid/CoQ10/cholesterol/Tween 80 (2.5:1.2:0.4:1.8, w/w) with phosphate buffer solution (pH 7.4, 0.01 M) as the hydration media. The z-average diameter (D(z)) was about 68 nm. The encapsulation efficiency was greater than 95% with a retention ratio higher than 90% and a particle size change lower than 10% after storage at 4 degrees C in the dark for 90 days. CoQ10 incorporation resulted in a dramatic increase of the microviscosity of nanoliposomes and inhibited the peroxidation of phospholipid. The D(z) of CoQ10 nanoliposomes produced in a pilot scale was about 67 nm. Results suggest that the technology developed by this investigation is practical to produce the CoQ10 nanoliposomes with the expected encapsulation quality and stability not only in the laboratory but also in a pilot scale.

Polypodium leucotomos extract: antioxidant activity and disposition

The extract of the fern Polypodium leucotomos (PL, Fernblock) is an oral photoprotectant with strong antioxidative properties. Recent studies to determine its chemical composition have shown 4-hydroxycinnamic acid (p-coumaric), 3 methoxy-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (ferulic), 3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid (caffeic), 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzoic acid (vanillic) and 3-caffeoilquinic acid (chlorogenic) to be among its major phenolic components. No conclusive data are available, however, on the H2O2-scavenging capacity of these compounds, or on their absorption and metabolism following their oral intake. In the present work, their antioxidative capacity was assessed by the luminol/H2O2 assay, their absorption studied using Caco-2 cells to resemble the intestinal barrier, and their metabolism investigated using cultured primary rat hepatocytes. The antioxidant capacity of PL components increased in a concentration-dependent manner, with ferulic and caffeic acids the most powerful antioxidants. The apparent permeability results correspond to a human post-oral administration absorption of 70-100% for all tested substances. Coumaric, ferulic and vanillic acids were metabolized by CYP450-dependent mono-oxygenases and partially conjugated to glucuronic acid and sulfate. These phenolic compounds may contribute to the health benefits afforded by this oral photoprotectant.