Enhanced delivery of melatonin loaded nanostructured lipid carriers during in vitro fertilization: NLC formulation, optimization and IVF efficacy

Antitumoral melatonin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers

Aim: Cancer constitutes the second leading cause of death worldwide, with conventional therapies limited by significant side effects. Melatonin (MEL), a natural compound with antitumoral properties, suffers from instability and low solubility. To overcome these issues, MEL was encapsulated into nanostructured lipid carriers (MEL-NLC) containing rosehip oil to enhance stability and boost its antitumoral activity. Methods: MEL-NLC were optimized by a design of experiments approach and characterized for their physicochemical properties. Stability and biopharmaceutical behavior were assessed, along with interaction studies and in vitro antitumoral efficacy against various cancer cell lines. Results: Optimized MEL-NLC exhibited desirable physicochemical characteristics, including small particle size and sustained MEL release, along with long-term stability. In vitro studies demonstrated that MEL-NLC selectively induced cytotoxicity in several cancer cell lines while sparing healthy cells. Conclusion: MEL-NLC represent a promising alternative for cancer, combining enhanced stability and targeted antitumoral activity, potentially overcoming the limitations of conventional treatments.

Co-Delivery of siRNA and Docetaxel to Cancer Cells by NLC for Therapy

The present study aims to develop a delivery system that can carry small interference RNA (siRNA) with small-molecule chemotherapeutic drugs, which can be used in cancer treatment. The drug delivery system combines the advantages of a therapeutic agent with two different mechanisms to ensure that it is used efficiently for cancer therapy. In this study, a nanostructured lipid carrier system was prepared, Docetaxel was loaded to these systems, and the Eph siRNA was adsorbed to the outer surface. In addition, DOTAP was added to the lipophilic phase to load a positive charge on the lipidic structure for interaction with the cells. Moreover, characterization, cytotoxicity, and transfection procedures were performed on the whole system. This candidate system was also compared to Taxotere, which is the first approved Docetaxel-containing drug on the market. Given the results, it was determined that the particle size of NLC-DTX was 165.3 ± 3.5 nm, the ζ potential value was 38.2 ± 1.7 mV, and the PDI was 0.187 ± 0.024. Entrapment efficacy of nanoparticles was found to be 92.89 ± 0.21%. It was determined that the lipidic system prepared in vitro release analyses were able to provide sustained release and exhibit cytotoxicity, even at doses lower than the dose used for Taxotere. The formulations prepared had a higher level of effect on cells when compared with pure DTX and Taxotere, but they also exhibited time-dependent cytotoxicity. It was also observed that the use of Eph siRNA together with the chemotherapeutic agent via formulation also contributed to this cell death. The results of the present study indicate that there is a promising carrier system in order to deliver hydrophilic nucleic acids, such as siRNA, together with lipophilic drugs in cancer treatment.

Assessment of developmental rate of mouse embryos yielded from in vitro fertilization of the oocyte with treatment of melatonin and vitamin C simultaneously

BACKGROUND

In recent decades, in vitro fertilization (IVF) has been widely used as a method of assisted reproductive technology (ART) to improve fertility in individuals. To be more successful in this laboratory method, we used the presence of two common types of antioxidants (melatonin and vitamin C) simultaneously and exclusively in IVF medium.

METHODS

The cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were obtained from Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HMG) -stimulated mice. Subsequently, metaphase II (MII) oocytes were fertilized in vitro. In the experiment, the IVF medium was randomly divided into two equal groups: The control group did not receive any antioxidants. In the treatment group, 100 µM melatonin and 5 mM vitamin C were added to the IVF medium. Finally, oocytes and putative embryos transferred into developmental medium and cultured 120 h after IVF to the blastocyst stage. After and before IVF, oocytes and putative embryos were stained with dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) and the H2O2 level was measured with an inverted fluorescence microscope using ImageJ software. At the end of the fifth day after IVF, the expression of Bax and B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) was evaluated using real-time PCR.

RESULTS

The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in oocytes and putative embryos observed in the treatment group demonstrated a significant reduce compared to the control group (p ≤ 0.01. (.Furthermore, the number of embryos in the blastocycte stage(P < 0.05), the expression level of the Bcl2 (P < 0.05) gene, the Bax unlike gene, significantly increased compared with the control group.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the presence of melatonin and vitamin C antioxidants simultaneously and exclusively in the IVF medium leads to a reduction in ROS and ,as a result, improves the growth of the embryo up to the blastocyst stage.

In situ hydrogel containing diazepam-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (DZP-NLC) for nose-to-brain delivery: development, characterization and deposition studies in a 3D-printed human nasal cavity model

The nasal route has been investigated as a promising alternative for drug delivery to the central nervous system, avoiding passage through the blood-brain barrier and improving bioavailability. In this sense, it is necessary to develop and test the effectiveness of new formulations proposed for the management of neurological disorders. Thereby, the aim of this work was to develop and characterize an ion sensitive in situ hydrogel containing diazepam-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (DZP-NLC) for nasal delivery in the treatment of epilepsy. Physical characterization of the developed formulations was performed and included the evaluation of rheological features, particle size, polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential (ZP) of an in situ hydrogel containing DZP-NLC. Afterwards, in vitro drug release, in vitro mucoadhesion and biocompatibility studies with RPMI 2650 nasal cells were performed. The in situ hydrogel containing DZP-NLC was aerosolized with a nasal spray device specifically designed for nose-to-brain delivery (VP7 multidose spray pump with a 232 N2B actuator) and characterized for droplet size distribution and spray cone angle. Finally, the deposition pattern of this hydrogel was evaluated in a 3D-printed human nasal cavity model. The developed in situ hydrogel containing DZP-NLC presented adequate characteristics for nasal administration, including good gelling ability, mucoadhesiveness and prolonged drug release. In addition, after inclusion in the hydrogel net, the particle size (81.79 ± 0.53 nm), PDI (0.21 ± 0.10) and ZP (-30.90 ± 0.10 mV), of the DZP-NLC remained appropriate for nose-to-brain delivery. Upon aerosolization in a nasal spray device, a suitable spray cone angle (22.5 ± 0.2°) and adequate droplet size distribution (Dv (90) of 317.77 ± 44.12 µm) were observed. Biocompatibility studies have shown that the developed formulation is safe towards RPMI 2650 cells in concentrations up to 100 μg/mL. Deposition studies on a 3D-printed human nasal cavity model revealed that the best nasal deposition profile was obtained upon formulation administration without airflow and at an angle from horizontal plane of 75°, resulting in 47% of administered dose deposited in the olfactory region and 89% recovery. The results of this study suggested that the intranasal administration of the developed in situ hydrogel containing DZP-NLC could be a promising alternative to the conventional treatments for epilepsy.

Melatonin delivered in solid lipid nanoparticles ameliorated its neuroprotective effects in cerebral ischemia

The current study explores the potential of melatonin (MLT)-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (MLT-SLNs) for better neuroprotective effects in ischemic stroke. MLT-SLNs were prepared using lipid matrix of palmityl alcohol with a mixture of surfactants (Tween 40, Span 40, Myrj 52) for stabilizing the lipid matrix. MLT-SLNs were tested for physical and chemical properties, thermal and polymorphic changes, in vitro drug release and in vivo neuroprotective studies in rats using permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (p-MCAO) model. The optimized MLT-SLNs showed particle size of ∼159 nm, zeta potential of -29.6 mV and high entrapment efficiency ∼92%. Thermal and polymorphic studies showed conversion of crystalline MLT to amorphous form after its entrapment in lipid matrix. MLT-SLNs displayed a sustained release pattern compared to MLT dispersion. MLT-SLNs significantly enhanced the neuroprotective profile of MLT ascertained by reduced brain infarction, recovered behavioral responses, low expression of inflammatory markers and improved oxidation protection in rats. MLT-SLNs also showed reduced hepatotoxicity compared to p-MCAO. From these outcomes, it is evidenced that MLT-SLNs have improved neuroprotection as compared to MLT dispersion and thereby present a promising approach to deliver MLT to the brain for better therapeutic outcomes in ischemic stroke.

Riluzole-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Hyperproliferative Skin Diseases

Nanocarriers, and especially nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), represent one of the most effective systems for topical drug administration. NLCs are biodegradable, biocompatible and provide a prolonged drug release. The glutamate release inhibitor Riluzole (RLZ) is a drug currently used for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), with anti-proliferative effects potentially beneficial for diseases with excessive cell turnover. However, RLZ possesses low water solubility and high light-sensibility. We present here optimized NLCs loaded with RLZ (RLZ-NLCs) as a potential topical treatment. RLZ-NLCs were prepared by the hot-pressure homogenization method using active essential oils as liquid lipids, and optimized using the design of experiments approach. RLZ-NLCs were developed obtaining optimal properties for dermal application (mean size below 200 nm, negative surface charge and high RLZ entrapment efficacy). In vitro release study demonstrates that RLZ-NLCs allow the successful delivery of RLZ in a sustained manner. Moreover, RLZ-NLCs are not angiogenic and are able to inhibit keratinocyte cell proliferation. Hence, a NLCs delivery system loading RLZ in combination with natural essential oils constitutes a promising strategy against keratinocyte hyperproliferative conditions.

Improved Melatonin Delivery by a Size-Controlled Polydopamine Nanoformulation Attenuates Preclinical Diabetic Retinopathy

Oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species generation, and overexpression of VEGF are signatory events in diabetic retinopathy. The downregulation of VEGF and anti-inflammatory action pave the way for diabetic retinopathy (DR) therapy. In that, lower absorption kinetics of melatonin limits its immense therapeutic potential. Hence, we have demonstrated a reverse microemulsion method to synthesize melatonin-loaded polydopamine nanoparticles to replenish both at a single platform with an improved melatonin delivery profile. The study has evaluated in vitro and in vivo protection efficiency of biocompatible melatonin-loaded polydopamine nanoparticles (MPDANPs). The protection mechanism was explained by downregulation of VEGF, CASPASE3, and PKCδ against high-glucose/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced insults, in vitro and in vivo. The anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic effect and potential of MPDANPs to enhance melatonin in vivo stability with prolonged circulation time have proved MPDANPs as a potential therapeutic candidate in DR management. The DR therapeutic potential of MPDANPs has been arbitrated by improving the bioavailability of melatonin and inhibition of VEGF-PKCδ crosstalk in vivo.

Dexamethasone-doped nanoparticles improve mineralization, crystallinity and collagen structure of human dentin

OBJECTIVES

Bioactive materials have been used for functionalization of adhesives to promote dentin remineralization. This study aims to evaluate bonding ability and both mechanical and chemical behavior of demineralized dentin infiltrated with polymeric nanoparticles doped with dexamethasone (Dex-NPs).

METHODS

Dentin conditioned surfaces were infiltrated with NPs, Dex-NPs or Dex-Zn-NPs. Bonded interfaces were also created and stored for 24 h or 21d, and then submitted to microtensile bond strength testing. Dentin remineralization was analyzed by Nanohardness, Young's modulus and Raman analysis.

RESULTS

At 21d of storage, dentin treated with undoped-NPs attained the lowest nanohardness and Young's modulus. Dex-NPs and Zn-Dex-NPs increased dentin nanohardness and Young's modulus after 21d Raman analysis showed high remineralization, crystallinity, crosslinking and better structure of collagen when functionalized Dex-NPs were present at the dentin interface.

CONCLUSIONS

Infiltration of dentin with Dex-NPs promoted functional remineralization as proved by nanomechanical and morpho-chemical evaluation tests. Dexamethasone in dentin facilitated crystallographic maturity, crystallinity and improved maturity and secondary structure of dentin collagen.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Using dexamethasone-functionalized NPs before resin infiltration is a clear option to obtain dentin remineralization, as these NPs produce the reinforcement of the dentin structure, which will lead to the improvement of the longevity of resin restorations.

Nose to brain delivery of melatonin lipidic nanocapsules as a promising post-ischemic neuroprotective therapeutic modality

Ischemic stroke accounts for about 87% of all strokes, causing long-term disability in adults, and is the second leading cause of death worldwide. In search of new therapeutic modalities, the use of neuroprotective agents loaded in nanocarriers to be delivered by noninvasive means (i.e. via intranasal route) became a popular approach. In the current study, melatonin (MEL) was loaded in lipidic nanocapsules (LNCs) prepared using the phase inversion method, and characterized in terms of size, polydispersity, zeta potential, in vitro drug release, viscosity, storage stability, and ex vivo permeation across sheep nasal mucosa. Moreover, MEL-LNCs were tested for efficacy in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R/) injury model through histopathological assessment, and analysis of oxidative stress markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and apoptotic markers. Results showed that LNCs exhibited particle size ranging from 18.26 to 109.8 nm, negative zeta potential, good storage stability, spherical morphology, and a burst release followed by a sustained release pattern. LNCs exhibited 10.35 folds higher permeation of MEL than the drug solution across sheep nasal mucosa. Post-ischemic intranasal administration of MEL-LNCs revealed lowering of oxidative stress manifested by a decrease in malondialdehyde levels, and elevation of glutathione and superoxide dismutase levels, lowering of the inflammatory markers tumor necrosis factor-α, NO, myeloperoxidase, and significant inhibition of Caspase-3 activity as an apoptotic marker. Western blot analysis delineated a recovery of protein expression Nrf-2 and HO-1 with downregulation in the parent inflammatory markers nuclear factor kappa B p65, inducible nitric oxide synthase, Bax, and Cytochrome C expressions, and upregulation of B-cell lymphoma-2 Bcl-2, hence promoting neuronal survival. This was supported by histological evidence, revealing significant restoration of hippocampal neurons. In light of the above, it can be concluded that MEL-LNCs could be a promising delivery system for nose to brain delivery for treatment of cerebral ischemia.

Nanostructured lipid carriers: a promising drug carrier for targeting brain tumours

Background

In recent years, the field of nanotechnology and nanomedicine has transformed the pharmaceutical industry with the development of novel drug delivery systems that overcome the shortcomings of traditional drug delivery systems. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), also known as the second-generation lipid nanocarriers, are one such efficient and targeted drug delivery system that has gained immense attention all across due to their myriad advantages and applications. Scientific advancements have revolutionized our health system, but still, brain diseases like brain tumour have remained formidable owing to poor prognosis and the challenging drug delivery to the brain tissue. In this review, we highlighted the application and potential of NLCs in brain-specific delivery of chemotherapeutic agents.

Main body

NLCs are lipid-based formulations with a solid matrix at room temperature and offer advantages like enhanced stability, low toxicity, increased shelf life, improved drug loading capacity, and biocompatibility over other conventional lipid-based nanocarriers such as nanoemulsions and solid lipid nanoparticles. This review meticulously articulates the structure, classification, components, and various methods of preparation exemplified with various research studies along with their advantages and disadvantages. The concept of drug loading and release has been discussed followed by a brief about stability and strategies to improve stability of NLCs. The review also summarizes various in vitro and in vivo research studies on NLCs encapsulated with cytotoxic drugs and their potential application in brain-specific drug delivery.

Conclusion

NLCs are employed as an important carrier for the delivery of food, cosmetics, and medicines and recently have been used in brain targeting, cancer, and gene therapy. However, in this review, the applications and importance of NLCs in targeting brain tumour have been discussed in detail stating examples of various research studies conducted in recent years. In addition, to shed light on the promising role of NLCs, the current clinical status of NLCs has also been summarized.

Graphical Abstract

Formulation, Characterization, and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Lactoferrin Functionalized Lipid Nanoparticles for Riluzole Delivery to the Brain

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease with a very poor prognosis. Its treatment is hindered by a lack of new therapeutic alternatives and the existence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which restricts the access of drugs commonly used in ALS, such as riluzole, to the brain. To overcome these limitations and increase brain targeting, riluzole-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) were prepared and functionalized with lactoferrin (Lf), facilitating transport across the BBB by interacting with Lf receptors expressed in the brain endothelium. NLC were characterized with respect to their physicochemical properties (size, zeta potential, polydispersity index) as well as their stability, encapsulation efficiency, morphology, in vitro release profile, and biocompatibility. Moreover, crystallinity and melting behavior were assessed by DSC and PXRD. Nanoparticles exhibited initial mean diameters between 180 and 220 nm and a polydispersity index below 0.3, indicating a narrow size distribution. NLC remained stable over at least 3 months. Riluzole encapsulation efficiency was very high, around 94-98%. FTIR and protein quantification studies confirmed the conjugation of Lf on the surface of the nanocarriers, with TEM images showing that the functionalized NLC presented a smooth surface and uniform spherical shape. An MTT assay revealed that the nanocarriers developed in this study did not cause a substantial reduction in the viability of NSC-34 and hCMEC/D3 cells at a riluzole concentration up to 10 μM, being therefore biocompatible. The results suggest that Lf-functionalized NLC are a suitable and promising delivery system to target riluzole to the brain.

Melatonin-based therapeutics for atherosclerotic lesions and beyond: Focusing on macrophage mitophagy

Atherosclerosis refers to a unique form of chronic proinflammatory anomaly of the vasculature, presented as rupture-prone or occlusive lesions in arteries. In advanced stages, atherosclerosis leads to the onset and development of multiple cardiovascular diseases with lethal consequences. Inflammatory cytokines in atherosclerotic lesions contribute to the exacerbation of atherosclerosis. Pharmacotherapies targeting dyslipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, and neutralizing inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, and IL-12/23) have displayed proven promises although contradictory results. Moreover, adjuvants such as melatonin, a pluripotent agent with proven anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and neuroprotective properties, also display potentials in alleviating cytokine secretion in macrophages through mitophagy activation. Here, we share our perspectives on this concept and present melatonin-based therapeutics as a means to modulate mitophagy in macrophages and, thereby, ameliorate atherosclerosis.

Topical Administration of Melatonin-Loaded Extracellular Vesicle-Mimetic Nanovesicles Improves 2,4-Dinitrofluorobenzene-Induced Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is caused by multiple factors that trigger chronic skin inflammation, including a defective skin barrier, immune cell activation, and microbial exposure. Although melatonin has an excellent biosafety profile and a potential to treat AD, there is limited clinical evidence from controlled trials that support the use of melatonin as an AD treatment. The delivery of melatonin via the transdermal delivery system is also a challenge in designing melatonin-based AD treatments. In this study, we generated melatonin-loaded extracellular vesicle-mimetic nanoparticles (MelaNVs) to improve the transdermal delivery of melatonin and to evaluate their therapeutic potential in AD. The MelaNVs were spherical nanoparticles with an average size of 100 nm, which is the optimal size for the transdermal delivery of drugs. MelaNVs showed anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the release of TNF-α and β-hexosaminidase in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells and compound 48/80-treated RBL-2H3 cells, respectively. MelaNVs showed a superior suppressive effect compared to an equivalent concentration of free melatonin. Treating a 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNCB)-induced AD-like mouse model with MelaNVs improved AD by suppressing local inflammation, mast cell infiltration, and fibrosis. In addition, MelaNVs effectively suppressed serum IgE levels and regulated serum IFN-γ and IL-4 levels. Taken together, these results suggest that MelaNVs are novel and efficient transdermal delivery systems of melatonin and that MelaNVs can be used as a treatment to improve AD.

Melatonin-doped polymeric nanoparticles induce high crystalline apatite formation in root dentin

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of novel polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) doped with melatonin (ML) on nano-hardness, crystallinity and ultrastructure of the formed hydroxyapatite after endodontic treatment.

METHODS

Undoped-NPs and ML-doped NPs (ML-NPs) were tested at radicular dentin, after 24 h and 6 m. A control group without NPs was included. Radicular cervical and apical dentin surfaces were studied by nano-hardness measurements, X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Mean and standard deviation were analyzed by ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls multiple comparisons (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Cervical dentin treated with undoped NPs maintained its nano-hardness values after 6 m of storage being [24 h: 0.29 (0.01); 6 m: 0.30 (0.02) GPa], but it decreased at apical dentin [24 h: 0.36 (0.01); 6 m: 0.28 (0.02) GPa]. When ML-NPs were used, nano-hardness was similar over time [24h: 0.31 (0.02); 6 m: 0.28 (0.03) GPa], at apical dentin. Root dentin treated with ML-NPs produced, in general, high crystallinity of new minerals and thicker crystals than those produced in the rest of the groups. After 6 m, crystals became organized in randomly oriented polyhedral, square polygonal block-like apatite or drop-like apatite polycrystalline lattices when ML-NPs were used. Undoped NPs generated poor crystallinity, with preferred orientation of small crystallite and increased microstrain.

SIGNIFICANCE

New polycrystalline formations encountered in dentin treated with ML-NPs may produce structural dentin stability and high mechanical performance at the root. The decrease of mechanical properties over time in dentin treated without NPs indicates scarce remineralization potential, dentin demineralization and further potential degradation. The amorphous stage may provide high hydroxyapatite solubility and remineralizing activity.

Coalition of Biological Agent (Melatonin) With Chemotherapeutic Agent (Amphotericin B) for Combating Visceral Leishmaniasis via Oral Administration of Modified Solid Lipid Nanoparticles

In this study, 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) grafted solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN)-based bioconjugate was synthesized and used for administering a combination of melatonin (Mel) and amphotericin B (AmB) orally for effective visceral leishmaniasis (VL) treatment. The formulations (HPCD-Mel-AmB SLN) were synthesized by the emulsion solvent evaporation method. HPCD-Mel-AmB SLN showed a high loading capacity and a high entrapment efficiency of AmB (% DL = 9.0 ± 0.55 and % EE = 87.9 ± 0.57) and Mel (% DL = 7.5 ± 0.51 and % EE = 63 ± 6.24). The cumulative percent release of AmB and Mel was 66.10 and 73.06%, respectively, up to 72 h. Time-dependent cellular uptake was noticed for HPCD-Mel-AmB SLN for 4 h. Further, HPCD-Mel-AmB SLN did not show any toxic effects on J774A.1 macrophages and Swiss albino mice. HPCD-Mel-AmB SLN (10 mg/kg ×5 days, p.o.) has significantly diminished (98.89%) the intracellular parasite load in liver tissues of L. donovani-infected BALB/c mice, subsequently highlighting the role of melatonin toward an effective strategy in combating leishmanial infection. Therefore, these results indicated that administration of HPCD-Mel-AmB SLN improve the therapeutic index of the first-line drug in addition to the introduction of biological agent and would be a promising therapeutic candidate for effective VL therapy. In the present study, the objective is to test the efficacy of the chemotherapeutic approach in combination with a biological immunomodulatory agent against leishmanial infection using in vitro and in vivo studies. This information suggests that melatonin could be an efficacious and potent antileishmanial agent.

Quality by design (QbD) optimization of diazepam-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) for nose-to-brain delivery: Toxicological effect of surface charge on human neuronal cells

Diazepam is commonly used in the management of epileptic seizures, although it has limitations that can be overcome by using formulations that are easier to administer and capable of directing the drug to the brain. In this field, it has been reported that the use of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) via intranasal (or via nose-to-brain) promotes the targeting of drugs to the brain, improving the effectiveness of therapy. The aim of this work was to optimize two diazepam-loaded NLC formulations for nose-to-brain delivery, one with positive surface charge and one with negative surface charge. The quality by design (QbD) approach was used to design the experiments, where the quality target product profile (QTPP), the risk assessment and the critical quality attributes (CQAs) were defined to ensure safety, efficacy and quality of the final formulations. The experiments started with the optimization of critical material attributes (CMAs), related to the ratios of lipids and emulsifiers, followed by the selection of critical process parameters (CPPs), related to the production methods of the diazepam-loaded NLC formulation (ultrasound technique and high-pressure homogenization - HPH). Afterwards, the positive surface charge of the diazepam-loaded NLC was optimized. Finally, the biocompatibility with human neuronal cells of the formulation with a negative surface charge and of the formulation with a positive surface charge was evaluated. The results of the optimization of the CMAs showed that the ratios of lipids and emulsifiers more adequate were 6.7:2.9 and 4.2:0.3 (% w,w), respectively. Regarding the CPPs, HPH was considered the most suitable production method, resulting in an optimized diazepam-loaded NLC formulation (F1C15) with negative surface charge, showing particle size of 69.59 ± 0.22 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.19 ± 0.00, zeta potential (ZP) of -23.50 ± 0.24 mV and encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 96.60 ± 0.03 %. The optimized diazepam-loaded NLC formulation (F2A8) with positive surface charge had particle size of 124.40 ± 0.84 nm, PDI of 0.17 ± 0.01, ZP of 32.60 ± 1.13 mV and EE of 95.76 ± 0.24 %. In addition, the incorporation of diazepam in NLC resulted in a sustained release of the drug. No significant changes in particle size, PDI, ZP and EE were observed for the formulation F1C15, after 3 months of storage, whereas for formulation F2A8, particle size increased significantly. Biocompatibility studies showed that the formulation F2A8 was more cytotoxic than the formulation F1C15. Thereby, we conclude that the formulation F1C15 is more suitable for targeting the brain, when compared with the formulation F2A8. From the results of these studies, it can be confirmed that the QbD approach is an adequate and central tool to optimize NLC formulations.

Nanotechnology and Reproductive Management of Farm Animals: Challenges and Advances

Reproductive efficiency of farm animals has central consequences on productivity and profitability of livestock farming systems. Optimal reproductive management is based on applying different strategies, including biological, hormonal, nutritional strategies, as well as reproductive disease control. These strategies should not only guarantee sufficient reproductive outcomes but should also comply with practical and ethical aspects. For example, the efficiency of the biological- and hormonal-based reproductive strategies is mainly related to several biological factors and physiological status of animals, and of nutritional strategies, additional factors, such as digestion and absorption, can contribute. In addition, the management of reproductive-related diseases is challenged by the concerns regarding the intensive use of antibiotics and the development of antimicrobial resistant strains. The emergence of nanotechnology applications in livestock farming systems may present innovative and new solutions for overcoming reproductive management challenges. Many drugs (hormones and antibiotics), biological molecules, and nutrients can acquire novel physicochemical properties using nanotechnology; the main ones are improved bioavailability, higher cellular uptake, controlled sustained release, and lower toxicity compared with ordinary forms. In this review, we illustrate advances in the most common reproductive management strategies by applying nanotechnology, considering the current challenges of each strategy.

Melatonin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles endows nitric oxide synthase 2 mediated anti-inflammatory activity in inflammatory bowel disease model

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a complex inflammatory condition arising due to interactions of environmental and genetic factors that lead to dysregulated immune response and inflammation in intestine. Complementary and alternative medicine approaches have been utilized to treat IBD. However, chronic inflammatory diseases are not medically curable. Hence, potent anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents are urgently warranted. Melatonin has emerged as a potent anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective candidate. Although, it's therapeutic efficacy is compromised due to less solubility and rapid clearance. Hence, we have synthesized melatonin loaded chitosan nanoparticle (Mel-CSNPs) to improve drug release profile and evaluate its in-vitro and in-vivo therapeutic efficacy. Mel-CSNPs exhibited better anti-inflammatory response in an in-vitro and in-vivo IBD model. Significant anti-inflammatory activity of Mel-CSNPs is attributed to nitric oxide (NO) reduction, inhibited nuclear translocation of NF-kB p65 and reduced IL-1β and IL-6 expression. In-vivo biodistribution study has shown a good distribution profile. Effective in-vivo therapeutic efficiency of Mel-CSNPs has been confirmed with reduced disease activity index parameters and inhibited neutrophilic infiltration. Histological evaluation has further proved the protective effect of Mel-CSNPs by preventing crypt damage and immune cells infiltration against Dextran Sodium Sulphate induced insults. Immuno-histochemical analysis has confirmed anti-inflammatory action of Mel-CSNPs with reduction of inflammatory markers, Nitric Oxide Synthase-2 (NOS2) and Nitro-tyrosine. Indeed, this study divulges anti-inflammatory activity of Mel-CSNPs by improving the therapeutic potential of melatonin.

Comprehensive Study of Atorvastatin Nanostructured Lipid Carriers through Multivariate Conceptualization and Optimization

The aim of the current study is to establish a comprehensive experimental design for the screening and optimization of Atorvastatin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (AT-NLCs). Initially, combined D-optimal screening design was applied to find the most significant factors affecting AT-NLCs properties. The studied variables included mixtures of solid and liquid lipids, the solid/liquid lipid ratio, surfactant type and concentration, homogenization speed as well as sonication time. Then, the variables homogenization speed (A), the ratio of solid lipid/liquid lipid (B), and concentration of the surfactant (C) were optimized using a central composite design. Particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency were chosen as dependent responses. The optimized AT-NLCs demonstrated a nanometric size (83.80 ± 1.13 nm), Polydispersity Index (0.38 ± 0.02), surface charge (-29.65 ± 0.65 mV), and high drug incorporation (93.1 ± 0.04%). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed no chemical interaction between Atorvastatin and the lipid mixture. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis of the AT-NLCs suggested the transformation of Atorvastatin crystal into an amorphous state. Administration of the optimized AT-NLCs led to a significant reduction (p < 0.001) in serum levels of rats' total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins. This change was histologically validated by reducing the relevant steatosis of the liver.

Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Engineered as Topical Delivery of Etodolac: Optimization and Cytotoxicity Studies

Etodolac (ETD), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, exhibits antinflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activity. The main type of ETD administration is oral route, which is associated with significant systemic side effects. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), a modern lipid formulation, are non-toxic, biocompatible, can improve the solubility and stability of drugs. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) containing etodolac were prepared by a melt-emulsification and ultrasonication technique. Full factorial design (FFD) was applied to optimize the composition of NLC and their properties such as zeta potential, polidyspersity index, and entrapment efficiency. Formulations consisting of Capryol 90, glicerol monostearate, and Tween 20 displayed particle size below 300 nm, encapsulated drug with efficiency of approximately 87% and prolonged drug release up to 24 h. Stable formulations displayed moderately negative surface charge suggesting their limited ability to interact with skin surface but simultaneously presenting their lower risk to cause cell-membrane disruption. In fact, cytotoxicity assessment using human dermal fibroblasts and human epidermal keratinocytes revealed that etodolac-loaded NLC had no important impact on skin cells viability evaluated in vitro, which might evidence that NLC formulations are safe for dermal delivery. The studies developed were relatively fast and simple, requiring no specialized equipment method to prepare NLC as ETD carriers ensuring better solubility and prolonged drug release.

Nanostructured Lipid Carrier-Mediated Transdermal Delivery of Aceclofenac Hydrogel Present an Effective Therapeutic Approach for Inflammatory Diseases

Aceclofenac (ACE), a cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, is the derivative of the diclofenac group that has been in use for the symptomatic treatment of systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease, rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Partial solubility, high lipophilic nature, and stability challenge its use in developing topical formulations. Hence, we developed and characterized nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC)-based ACE (ACE-NLC) hydrogel for an efficient transdermal delivery. NLC microemulsion was prepared using different lipids by various methods and was characterized with respect to particle size, zeta potential, surface morphology, and drug encapsulation efficiency. The optimized NLC formulation was incorporated into Carbopol^® 940 gel, and this arrangement was characterized and compared with the existing marketed gel (Mkt-gel) formulation to assess in vitro drug release, rheology, texture profile, in vivo skin retention and permeation, and stability. Furthermore, prepared and characterized ACE-loaded NLC formulation was evaluated for skin integrity and fitted in a dermatokinetic model. The results of this study confirmed the spherical shape; smooth morphology and nanometric size attested by Zetasizer and scanning and transmission electron microcopy; and stability of the ACE-NLC formulation. The ACE-NLC-gel formulation showed good rheological and texture characteristics, and better skin distribution in the epidermis and dermis. Moreover, ACE-NLC permeated deeper in the skin layers and kept the skin integrity intact. Overall, NLC-based gel formulation of ACE might be a promising nanoscale lipid carrier for topical application when compared with the conventional Mkt-gel formulation.