Carvacrol-loaded liposome suspension: optimization, characterization and incorporation into poly(vinyl alcohol) films

Tapioca starch/konjac gum-based composite film incorporated with nanoliposomes encapsulated grape seed oil: Structure, functionality, controlled release and its preservation role for chilled mutton

In this study, grape seed oil nanoliposomes (GSO-NLs) were constructed and doped into tapioca starch/konjac gum composite films (TK-GSO-NLs) to evaluate the preservation of chilled mutton. The results showed that the GSO-NLs have a good spherical or rounded state and good stability. The doping of GSO-NLs resulted in a smooth, flat, and dense structure on the surface and cross-section of the TK films. The TK-GSO-NLs showed the best compatibility among the components, with excellent mechanical and barrier properties. FTIR and XRD confirmed the presence of ionic bonds between the components, further improving the copolymer crystal structure. Notably, the packaging material provided ideal antioxidant and bacteriostatic stability as well as delayed GSO release. This packaging could effectively maintain the quality of chilled mutton and prolong the shelf-life to 15 days. The study provides ideas for the design of green and active food packaging and for extending the shelf life of meat.

Potential application of nanoliposomes loaded with complex tannins from the seed shell of Euryale ferox in the anti-browning of fresh-cut asparagus lettuce

Surface browning of plant-derived fresh-cut products is mainly caused by conversion of the phenolic compounds into o-quinones under tyrosinase catalysis. In this study, the rarely reported complex tannins from Euryale ferox seed shell (ECTs) constituted by the units of 35.60% condensed tannins and 64.40% hydrolysable tannins were shown to suppress the activity of tyrosinase efficiently, supporting the exploitation of ECTs into novel anti-browning agents. However, the utilization of ECTs in food preservation is often restricted because of their chemical instability to external environment. Further fabrication of nanoliposomes loaded with ECTs (ECTs-NLs) herein was carried out to improve the stability of ECTs. DLS, TEM, FTIR, DSC and XRD confirmed that ECTs were encapsulated into nanoliposomes successfully, and ECTs-NLs appeared as vesicle-like spherical morphology with favorable encapsulation efficiency, uniform particle size distribution and negative zeta-potential. The resulting ECTs-NLs were relatively stable in the dark at 4 °C. Nanoliposomal encapsulation significantly enhanced ECTs stability, thus protecting inhibitory effect of ECTs against tyrosinase. Furthermore, anti-browning evaluation proved that ECTs-NLs had distinct advantages over free ECTs in alleviating surface browning of fresh-cut asparagus lettuces. These results suggested that nanoliposomes were effective in stabilizing ECTs and ECTs-NLs could be potentially applied to the fresh-cut food industry.

Synergistic effects of quercetin-loaded CoFe2O4@Liposomes regulate DNA damage and apoptosis in MCF-7 cancer cells: based on biophysical magnetic hyperthermia

INTRODUCTION

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy in women globally. Significant progress has been made in developing structural nanoparticles (NPs) and formulations for targeted smart drug delivery (SDD) of pharmaceuticals, improving the precision of tumor cell targeting in therapy.

SIGNIFICANCE

Magnetic hyperthermia (MHT) treatment using magneto-liposomes (MLs) has emerged as a promising adjuvant cancer therapy.

METHODS

CoFe2O4 magnetic NPs (MNPs) were conjugated with nanoliposomes to form MLs, and the anticancer drug quercetin (Que) was loaded into MLs, forming Que-MLs composites for antitumor approach. The aim was to prepare Que-MLs for DD systems (DDS) under an alternating magnetic field (AMF), termed chemotherapy/hyperthermia (chemo-HT) techniques. The encapsulation efficiency (EE), drug loading capacity (DL), and drug release (DR) of Que and Que-MLs were evaluated.

RESULTS

The results confirmed successful Que-loading on the surface of MLs, with an average diameter of 38 nm and efficient encapsulation into MLs (69%). In vitro, experimental results on MCF-7 breast cells using MHT showed high cytotoxic effects of novel Que-MLs on MCF-7 cells. Various analyses, including cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell migration, western blotting, fluorescence imaging, and cell membrane internalization, were conducted. The Acridine Orange-ethidium bromide double fluorescence test identified 35% early and 55% late apoptosis resulting from Que-MLs under the chemo-HT group. TEM results indicated MCF-7 cell membrane internalization and digestion of Que-MLs, suggesting the presence of early endosome-like vesicles on the cytoplasmic periphery.

CONCLUSIONS

Que-MLs exhibited multi-modal chemo-HT effects, displaying high toxicity against MCF-7 BC cells and showing promise as a potent cytotoxic agent for BC chemotherapy.

Novel nano-encapsulated limonene: Utilization of drug-in-cyclodextrin-in-liposome formulation to improve the stability and enhance the antioxidant activity

Drug-in-cyclodextrin-in-liposome (DCL) combines advantages of cyclodextrin and liposome. Here, DCL formulation was successfully prepared to encapsulate limonene (Lim), whose characterization revealed that particle size was 147.5 ± 1.3 nm and zeta potential was -48.7 ± 0.8 mV. And the complexation mechanism of Lim/HP-β-CD inclusion complex (the intermediate of DCL) was analyzed by molecular dynamics simulation, showing that Lim was entrapped into the cavity of HP-β-CD through electrostatic and hydrophobic interaction with a molar ratio of 1:1. Notably, DCL formulation not only reduced Lim volatilization in 25℃, but also enhanced the free radical (DPPH· and ABTS·+) scavenging ability of Lim. In summary, Lim-DCL formulation improved the stability and enhanced the antioxidant activity of Lim. DCL nanocarrier system is suitable to preserve volatile and hydrophobic compounds, enlarging their application in pharmaceutics industries.

p-Coumaric acid-loaded nanoliposomes: Optimization, characterization, antimicrobial properties and preservation effects on fresh pod pepper fruit

Novel p-coumaric acid (pCA)-loaded nanoliposomes were prepared by the thin-film hydration method, assisted with ultrasonic treatment, and optimized by the response surface methodology. The characterization showed that the fabricated pCA-loaded liposomes were nanosized spherical vesicles (83.55 ± 0.34 nm), exhibiting favorable dispersibility and encapsulation efficiency (55.70 ± 0.10 %). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis indicated that pCA was encapsulated into phospholipid bilayer through hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bonding. Tests of temperature stability and centrifugal stability suggested that pCA-loaded nanoliposomes were less sensitive to aggregation and fusion during storage. Incubation experiments revealed that pCA-loaded nanoliposomes had a good inhibitory effect on the expansion of disease area on fresh pod pepper fruit caused by Botrytis cinerea. Additionally, pCA-loaded nanoliposomes effectively extended shelf life of fresh pod peppers by reducing weight loss and naturally-infected decays. The findings presented a viable strategy for designing liposomal encapsulation technology to efficiently enhance antimicrobial activity of pCA in food preservation.

Biosynthesis, characterization, magnetic hyperthermia, and in vitro toxicity evaluation of quercetin-loaded magnetoliposome lipid bilayer hybrid system on MCF-7 breast cancer

Novel biocompatible and effective hyperthermia (HT) treatment materials for breast cancer therapeutic have recently attracting researchers, because of their effective ablation of cancer cells and negligible damage to healthy cells. Magnetoliposome (MLs) have numerous possibilities for utilize in cancer treatment, including smart drug delivery (SDD) mediated through alternating magnetic fields (AMF). In this work, magnesium ferrite (MgFe2O4) encapsulated with liposomes lipid bilayer (MLs), Quercetin (Q)-loaded MgFe2O4@Liposomes (Q-MLs) nano-hybrid system were successfully synthesized for magnetic hyperthermia (MHT) and SDD applications. The hybrid system was well-investigated by different techniques using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), Transmission electron microscope (TEM), and Zeta Potential (ZP). The characterization results confirmed the improving quercetin-loading on the MLs surface. TEM analysis indicated the synthesized MgFe2O4, MLs, and Q-MLs were spherical with an average size of 23.7, 35.5, and 329.5 nm, respectively. The VSM results revealed that the MgFe2O4 exhibit excellent and effective saturation magnetization (MS) (40.5 emu/g). Quercetin drug loading and entrapment efficiency were found to be equal to 2.1 ± 0.1% and 42.3 ± 2.2%, respectively. The in-vitro Q release from Q-loaded MLs was found 40.2% at pH 5.1 and 69.87% at pH 7.4, verifying the Q-loading pH sensitivity. The MLs and Q-MLs hybrid system as MHT agents exhibit specific absorption rate (SAR) values of 197 and 205 W/g, correspondingly. Furthermore, the Q-MLs cytotoxicity was studied on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line, and the obtained data demonstrated that the Q-MLs have a high cytotoxicity effect compared to MLs and free Q.

Progress of nanopreparation technology applied to volatile oil drug delivery systems

Traditional Chinese medicine volatile oil has a long history and possesses extensive pharmacological activity. However, volatile oils have characteristics such as strong volatility, poor water solubility, low bioavailability, and poor targeting, which limit their application. The use of volatile oil nano drug delivery systems can effectively improve the drawbacks of volatile oils, enhance their bioavailability and chemical stability, and reduce their volatility and toxicity. This article first introduces the limitations of the components of traditional Chinese medicine volatile oils, discusses the main classifications and latest developments of volatile oil nano formulations, and briefly describes the preparation methods of traditional Chinese medicine volatile oil nano formulations. Secondly, the limitations of nano formulation technology are discussed, along with future challenges and prospects. A deeper understanding of the role of nanotechnology in traditional Chinese medicine volatile oils will contribute to the modernization of volatile oils and broaden their application value.

Liposomal encapsulation of amoxicillin via microfluidics with subsequent investigation of the significance of PEGylated therapeutics

With an increasing concern of global antimicrobial resistance, the efforts to improve the formulation of a narrowing library of therapeutic antibiotics must be confronted. The liposomal encapsulation of antibiotics using a novel and sustainable microfluidic method has been employed in this study to address this pressing issue, via a targeted, lower-dose medical approach. The study focusses upon microfluidic parameter optimisation, formulation stability, cytotoxicity, and future applications. Particle sizes of circa. 130 nm, with viable short-term (28-day) physical stability were obtained, using two different non-cytotoxic liposomal formulations, both of which displayed suitable antibacterial efficacy. The microfluidic method allowed for high encapsulation efficiencies (≈77 %) and the subsequent in vitro release profile suggested high limits of antibiotic dissociation from the nanovessels, achieving 90% release within 72 h. In addition to the experimental data, the growing use of poly(ethylene) glycol (PEG) within lipid-based formulations is discussed in relation to anti-PEG antibodies, highlighting the key pharmacological differences between PEGylated and non-PEGylated formulations and their respective advantages and drawbacks. It's surmised that in the case of the formulations used in this study, the addition of PEG upon the liposomal membrane would still be a beneficial feature to possess owing to beneficial features such as stability, antibiotic efficacy and the capacity to further modify the liposomal membrane.

Carvacrol-Loaded Phytosomes for Enhanced Wound Healing: Molecular Docking, Formulation, DoE-Aided Optimization, and in vitro/in vivo Evaluation

Background

Despite recent advances in wound healing products, phytochemicals have been considered promising and attractive alternatives. Carvacrol (CAR), a natural phenolic compound, has been reported to be effective in wound healing.

Purpose

This work endeavored to develop novel CAR-loaded phytosomes for the enhancement of the wound healing process.

Methods

Molecular docking was performed to compare the affinities of the different types of phospholipids to CAR. Phytosomes were prepared by three methods (thin-film hydration, cosolvency, and salting out) using Lipoid S100 and Phospholipon 90H with three levels of saturation percent (0%, 50%, and 100%), and three levels of phospholipid molar percent (66.67%, 75%, and 80%). The optimization was performed using Design Expert where particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential were chosen as dependent variables. The optimized formula (F1) was further investigated regarding entrapment efficiency, TEM, 1H-NMR, FT-IR, DSC, X-RD, in vitro release, ex vivo permeation, and stability. Furthermore, it was incorporated into a hydrogel formulation, and an in vivo study was conducted to investigate the wound-healing properties of F1.

Results

F1 was chosen as the optimized formula prepared via the thin-film hydration method with a saturation percent and a phospholipid molar percent of zero and 66.67, respectively. TEM revealed the spherical shape of phytosomal vesicles with uniform size, while the results of 1H-NMR, FT-IR, DSC, and X-RD confirmed the formation of the phytosomal complex. F1 demonstrated a higher in vitro release and a slower permeation than free CAR. The wound area of F1-treated animals showed a marked reduction associated with a high degree of collagen fiber deposition and enhanced cellular proliferation.

Conclusion

F1 can be considered as a promising remedy for the enhancement of wound healing and hence it would be hoped to undergo further investigation.

Research Progress of Protein-Based Bioactive Substance Nanoparticles

Bioactive substances exhibit various physiological activities-such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities-and have great potential for application in food, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals. However, the low solubility, chemical instability, and low bioavailability of bioactive substances limit their application in the food industry. Using nanotechnology to prepare protein nanoparticles to encapsulate and deliver active substances is a promising approach due to the abundance, biocompatibility, and biodegradability of proteins. Common protein-based nanocarriers include nano-emulsions, nano-gels, nanoparticles, and nano complexes. In this review, we give an overview of protein-based nanoparticle fabrication methods, highlighting their pros and cons. Additionally, we discuss the applications and current issues regarding the utilization of protein-based nanoparticles in the food industry. Finally, we provide perspectives on future development directions, with a focus on classifying bioactive substances and their functional properties.

Neuroprotective Potential and Underlying Pharmacological Mechanism of Carvacrol for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases

The phytochemicals have antioxidant properties to counter the deleterious effects of oxidative stress in the central nervous system and can be a promising drug candidate for neurodegenerative diseases. Among various phytochemicals, constituents of spice origin have recently received special attention for neurodegenerative diseases owing to their health benefits, therapeutic potential, edible nature, and dietary accessibility and availability. Carvacrol, a phenolic monoterpenoid, has garnered attention in treating and managing various human diseases. It possesses diverse pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anticancer. Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are major public health concerns that place a significant financial burden on healthcare systems worldwide. The global burden of these diseases is expected to increase in the next few decades owing to increasing life expectancies. Currently, there is no cure for neurodegenerative diseases, such as AD and PD, and the available drugs only give symptomatic relief. For a long time, oxidative stress has been recognized as a primary contributor to neurodegeneration. Carvacrol enhances memory and cognition by modulating the effects of oxidative stress, inflammation, and Aβ25-35- induced neurotoxicity in AD. Moreover, it also reduces the production of reactive oxygen species and proinflammatory cytokine levels in PD, which further prevents the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and improves motor functions. This review highlights carvacrol's potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in managing and treating AD and PD.

Ionic Strength of Methylcellulose-Based Films: An Alternative for Modulating Mechanical Performance and Hydrophobicity for Potential Food Packaging Application

The growing environmental concern with the inappropriate disposal of conventional plastics has driven the development of eco-friendly food packaging. However, the intrinsic characteristics of polymers of a renewable origin, e.g., poor mechanical properties, continue to render their practical application difficult. For this, the present work studied the influence of ionic strength (IS) from 0 to 500 mM to modulate the physicochemical properties of methylcellulose (MC). Moreover, for protection against biological risks, Nisin-Z was incorporated into MC’s polymeric matrices, providing an active function. The incorporation of salts (LiCl and MgCl2) promoted an increase in the equilibrium moisture content in the polymer matrix, which in turn acted as a plasticizing agent. In this way, films with a hydrophobic surface (98°), high true strain (85%), and low stiffness (1.6 mPa) can be manufactured by addition of salts, modulating the IS to 500 mM. Furthermore, films with an IS of 500 mM, established with LiCl, catalyzed antibacterial activity against E. coli, conferring synergism and extending protection against biological hazards. Therefore, we demonstrated that the IS control of MC dispersion presents a new alternative to achieve films with the synergism of antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria in addition to flexibility, elasticity, and hydrophobicity required in various applications in food packaging.

Antifungal Carvacrol Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles

The increased prevalence and incidence of fungal infections, of which Candida albicans represents one of the most life-threatening organisms, is prompting the scientific community to develop novel antifungal molecules. Many essential oils components are attracting attention for their interesting antifungal activities. Given the chemical and physical characteristics of these compounds, the use of appropriate nanodelivery systems is becoming increasingly widespread. In this study, chitosan nanoparticles were prepared using an ionic gelation procedure and loaded with the phenolic monoterpene carvacrol. After a bioassay guided optimization, the best nanoparticle formulation was structurally characterized by means of different spectroscopic (UV, FTIR and DLS) and microscopy techniques (SEM) and described for their functional features (encapsulation efficiency, loading capacity and release kinetics). The antifungal activity of this formulation was assayed with different Candida spp., both in planktonic and biofilm forms. From these studies, it emerged that the carvacrol loaded nanoparticles were particularly active against planktonic forms and that the antibiofilm activity was highly dependent on the species tested, with the C. tropicalis and C. krusei strains resulting as the most susceptible.