Co-encapsulation of dexamethasone 21-acetate and SPIONs into biodegradable polymeric microparticles designed for intra-articular delivery

Ultra-small superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for intra-articular targeting of cartilage in early osteoarthritis

Early diagnosis of osteoarthritis (OA) is critical for effective cartilage repair. However, lack of blood vessels in articular cartilage poses a barrier to contrast agent delivery and subsequent diagnostic imaging. To address this challenge, we proposed to develop ultra-small superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs, 4 nm) that can penetrate into the matrix of articular cartilage, and further modified with the peptide ligand WYRGRL (particle size, 5.9 nm), which allows SPIONs to bind to type II collagen in the cartilage matrix and increase the retention of probes. Type II collagen in the cartilage matrix is gradually lost with the progression of OA, consequently, the binding of peptide-modified ultra-small SPIONs to type II collagen in the OA cartilage matrix is less, thus presenting different magnetic resonance (MR) signals in OA group from the normal ones. By introducing the AND logical operation, damaged cartilage can be differentiated from the surrounding normal tissue on T1 and T2 AND logical map of MR images, and this was also verified in histology studies. Overall, this work provides an effective strategy for delivering nanosized imaging agents to articular cartilage, which could potentially be used to diagnosis joint-related diseases such as osteoarthritis.

Development and Evaluation of Novel Leflunomide SPION Bioemulsomes for the Intra-Articular Treatment of Arthritis

Systemic treatments for rheumatoid arthritis are associated with many side effects. This study aimed to minimize the side effects associated with the systemic administration of leflunomide (LEF) by formulating LEF-loaded emulsomes (EMLs) for intra-articular administration. Additionally, EMLs were loaded with supramagnetic nanoparticles (SPIONs) to enhance joint localization, where a magnet was placed on the joint area after intra-articular administration. Full in vitro characterization, including colloidal characteristics, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro release were conducted besides the in vivo evaluation in rats with adjuvant-induced arthritis. In vivo study included joint diameter measurement, X-ray radiographic analysis, RT-PCR analysis, Western blotting, ELISA for inflammatory markers, and histopathological examination of dissected joints. The particle size and entrapment efficiency of the selected LEF SPION EMLs were 198.2 nm and 83.7%, respectively. The EMLs exhibited sustained release for 24 h. Moreover, in vivo evaluation revealed LEF SPION EMLs to be superior to the LEF suspension, likely due to the increase in LEF solubility by nanoencapsulation that improved the pharmacological effects and the use of SPION that ensured the localization of EMLs in the intra-articular cavity upon administration.

Controlling protein interactions in blood for effective liver immunosuppressive therapy by silica nanocapsules

Immunosuppression with glucocorticoids is a common treatment for autoimmune liver diseases and after liver transplant, which is however associated with severe side-effects. Targeted delivery of glucocorticoids to inflammatory cells, e.g. liver macrophages and Kupffer cells, is a promising approach for minimizing side effects. Herein, we prepare core-shell silica nanocapsules (SiO₂ NCs) via a sol-gel process confined in nanodroplets for targeted delivery of dexamethasone (DXM) for liver immunosuppressive therapy. DXM with concentrations up to 100 mg mL^-1 in olive oil are encapsulated while encapsulation efficiency remains over 95% after 15 days. Internalization of NCs by non-parenchymal murine liver cells significantly reduces the release of inflammatory cytokines, indicating an effective suppression of inflammatory response of liver macrophages. Fluorescent and magnetic labeling of the NCs allows for monitoring their intracellular trafficking and biodegradation. Controlled interaction with blood proteins and good colloidal stability in blood plasma are achieved via PEGylation of the NCs. Specific proteins responsible for stealth effect, such as apolipoprotein A-I, apolipoprotein A-IV, and clusterin, are present in large amounts on the PEGylated NCs. In vivo biodistribution investigations prove an efficient accumulation of NCs in the liver, underlining the suitability of the SiO₂ NCs as a dexamethasone carrier for treating inflammatory liver diseases.

Cyclic β-(1, 2)-glucan blended poly DL lactic co glycolic acid (PLGA 10:90) nanoparticles for drug delivery

Our group had previously reported the encapsulation efficiency of cyclic β-(1, 2)-glucan for various drugs. The current study is aimed at evaluating the use of glucan as a drug carrier system by blending with poly lactic-co- glycolic acid (L:G = 10:90). Nanoparticles of glucan (0.5, 5, 10 and 20 wt %) blended with PLGA and gentamicin were synthesized. Encapsulation efficiency was higher for the blends (93% with 20 wt % of glucan) than the PLGA alone (79.8%). The presence of glucan enhanced both the biodegradability, and biocompatibility of PLGA. Degradation of the nanoparticles in vitro, was autocatalytic with an initial burst release of active drug and the release profile was modeled using the Korsmeyer-Peppas scheme. In vivo studies indicated that the drug released from the blends had high volume of distribution, and greater clearance from the system. Pharmacokinetics of the drug was predicted using a double exponential decay model. Blending with PLGA improved the drug release characteristics of the cyclic β-(1, 2)-glucan.

A green chemistry to produce iron oxide - Chitosan nanocomposite (CS-IONC) for the upgraded bio-restorative and pharmacotherapeutic activities - Supra molecular nanoformulation against drug-resistant pathogens and malignant growth

The logical research on fundamentally adjusted iron oxide nanoparticles has turned out to expanded in biomedicine because of the improved activity and best biocompatibility. In this present work upgraded bio-restorative and pharmacotherapeutic property of chitosan‑iron oxide nanocomposite, which was set up by eco-friendly in situ substance technique. Characterisation of the synthesised nanocomposite by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray diffraction,(XRD) and Vibrating test magnetometer (VSM) studies reveals that highly stable spherical, electron-dense core shelled rough particles of 50-60 nm. Particle morphology of the synthesised nanocomposite utilising scanning electron microscopy (SEM) uncovers spherical; thick electron centre shelled harsh particles with the size scope of 50-60 nm. FTIR studies show that the specific interaction of practical gatherings of chitosan with iron oxide nanoparticles. Crystalline phase and magnetisation impact of the composite resolved from XRD and VSM studies. Anti-bacterial activity of the nanocomposite examined against human bacterial pathogens which suggest that the readied nanocomposite successfully restrained the development of the tried bacterial strains by recording maximum zone of inhibition, least minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and biofilm damage against the both tested strains. 100 μg dosages of nanocomposites recorded 20.0 and 21.0 mm of the zone of inhibition against E. coli and S. aureus respectively. Biofilm restraint was additionally observed to be high in nanocomposite treatment by recording lower optical density of ethanol solubilised biofilm of both tested strains. Anticancer activity was examined against the A549 cell line by the assurance of cell feasibility as opposed to oxidative proteins, articulation example of TNF-α, Bax, PARP qualities and apoptosis. Composite prompted 50% of cytotoxicity at 80 μg/mL unmistakably uncovers cytotoxicity against A549 cells. Nanocomposite treatment revealed a high decrease of cell feasibility at all the fixation and most extreme impact seen in 100 μg. Nanocomposite treated cells demonstrated striking changes in cell morphology, the build-up of atomic material related to trademark changes in against oxidative enzymes, quality articulation design which brought about apoptosis-like necrotic cell death. The present findings would propose the conceivable usage of chitosan‑iron oxide nanocomposite as a viable remedial against safe medication pathogens and malignant growth cells.

Intra-articular interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL1-ra) microspheres for posttraumatic osteoarthritis: in vitro biological activity and in vivo disease modifying effect

Background

Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1 ra) can be disease-modifying in posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). One limitation is its short joint residence time. We hypothesized that IL-1 ra encapsulation in poly (lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres reduces IL-1 ra systemic absorption and provides an enhanced anti-PTOA effect.

Methods

IL-1 ra release kinetics and biological activity: IL-1 ra encapsulation into PLGA microsphere was performed using double emulsion solvent extraction. Lyophilized PLGA IL-1 ra microspheres were resuspended in PBS and supernatant IL-1 ra concentrations were assayed. The biological activity of IL-1 ra from PLGA IL-1 ra microspheres was performed using IL-1 induced lymphocyte proliferation and bovine articular cartilage degradation assays. Systemic absorption of IL-1 ra following intra-articular (IA) injection of PLGA IL-1 ra or IL-1 ra: At 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 h following injection of 50 μl PLGA IL-1 ra (n = 6) or IL-1 ra (n = 6), serum samples were collected and IL-1 ra concentrations were determined. Anterior cruciate ligamenttransection (ACLT) and IA dosing: ACLT was performed in 8–10 week old male Lewis rats (n = 42). PBS (50 μl; n = 9), IL-1 ra (50 μl; 5 mg/ml; n = 13), PLGA IL-1 ra (50 μl; equivalent to 5 mg/ml IL-1 ra; n = 14) or PLGA particles (50 μl; n = 6) treatments were performed on days 7, 14, 21 and 28 following ACLT. Cartilage and synovial histopathology: On day 35, animal ACLT joints were harvested and tibial cartilage and synovial histopathology scoring was performed.

Results

Percent IL-1 ra content in the supernatant at 6 h was 13.44 ± 9.27 % compared to 34.16 ± 12.04 %, 47.89 ± 12.71 %, 57.14 ± 11.71 %, and 93.90 ± 8.50 % at 12, 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively. PLGA IL-1 ra inhibited lymphocyte proliferation and cartilage degradation similar to IL-1 ra. Serum IL-1 ra levels were significantly lower at 1, 3, and 6 h following PLGA IL-1 ra injection compared to IL-1 ra. Cartilage and synovial histopathology scores were significantly lower in the PLGA IL-1 ra group compared to PBS and PLGA groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

IL-1 ra encapsulation in PLGA microspheres is feasible with no alteration to IL-1 ra biological activity. PLGA IL-1 ra exhibited an enhanced disease-modifying effect in a PTOA model compared to similarly dosed IL-1 ra.

Encapsulation of VEGF165into magnetic PLGA nanocapsules for potential local delivery and bioactivity in human brain endothelial cells

New drug delivery systems based on biodegradable magnetic nanocapsules for targeted delivery of pro-angiogenic proteins, potentially useful in therapeutic angiogenesis, are reported.

Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) microspheres for MRI-monitored transcatheter delivery of sorafenib to liver tumors

The multi-kinase inhibitor (MKI) sorafenib can be an effective palliative therapy for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, patient tolerance is often poor due to common systemic side effects following oral administration. Local transcatheter delivery of sorafenib to liver tumors has the potential to reduce systemic toxicities while increasing the dose delivered to targeted tumors. We developed sorafenib-eluting PLG microspheres for delivery by intra-hepatic transcatheter infusion in an orthotropic rodent HCC model. The particles also encapsulated iron-oxide nanoparticles permitting magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of intra-hepatic biodistributions. The PLG microspheres (diameter≈1μm) were loaded with 18.6% (w/w) sorafenib and 0.54% (w/w) ferrofluid and 65.2% of the sorafenib was released within 72h of media exposure. In vitro studies demonstrated significant reductions in HCC cell proliferation with increasing doses of the sorafenib-eluting microspheres, where the estimated IC50 was a 29μg/mL dose of microspheres. During in vivo studies, MRI permitted intra-procedural visualization of intra-hepatic microsphere delivery. At 72h after microsphere infusion, microvessel density was significantly reduced in tumors treated with the sorafenib-eluting microspheres compared to both sham control tumors (by 35%) and controls (by 30%). These PLG microspheres offer the potential to increase the efficacy of molecularly targeted MKI therapies while reducing systemic exposures via selective catheter-directed delivery to HCC.

Development of biodegradable methylprednisolone microparticles for treatment of articular pathology using a spray-drying technique

In this work, microparticles were prepared by spray-drying using albumin, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid as excipients to create a controlled-release methylprednisolone system for use in inflammatory disorders such as arthritis. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that these microparticles were almost spherical, with development of surface wrinkling as the methylprednisolone load in the formulation was increased. The methylprednisolone load also had a direct influence on the mean diameter and zeta potential of the microparticles. Interactions between formulation excipients and the active drug were evaluated by x-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermal gravimetric analysis, showing limited amounts of methylprednisolone in a crystalline state in the loaded microparticles. The encapsulation efficiency of methylprednisolone was approximately 89% in all formulations. The rate of methylprednisolone release from the microparticles depended on the initial drug load in the formulation. In vitro cytotoxic evaluation using THP-1 cells showed that none of the formulations prepared triggered an inflammatory response on release of interleukin-1β, nor did they affect cellular viability, except for the 9.1% methylprednisolone formulation, which was the maximum test concentration used. The microparticles developed in this study have characteristics amenable to a therapeutic role in inflammatory pathology, such as arthritis.

Polymeric theranostics: using polymer-based systems for simultaneous imaging and therapy

Polymer-based nanomedicine is a large and fast growing field. Polymer-based systems have been extensively used as therapeutic carriers as well as bioimaging agents for example in tumour diagnosis. However, fewer polymeric systems have been able to combine both therapy and imaging in a new field that is called theranostics (theragnostics). This review aims to summarise the recent developments and trends on polymeric theranostics. Four different types of therapies/treatments are examined namely drug delivery, gene delivery, photodynamic therapy and hyperthermia treatment combined with different imaging moieties like magnetic resonance imaging agents, fluorescent agents and microbubbles for ultrasound imaging.

Micro- and Nano-Carrier Mediated Intra-Articular Drug Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis

The objective of this paper is to provide readers with current developments of intra-articular drug delivery systems. In recent years, although the search for a clinically successful ideal carrier is ongoing, sustained-release systems, such as polymeric micro- and nanoparticles, liposomes, and hydrogels, are being extensively studied for intra-articular drug delivery purposes. The advantages associated with long-acting preparations include a longer effect of the drug in the action site and a reduced risk of infection due to numerous injections consequently. This paper discusses the recent developments in the field of intra-articular sustained-release delivery systems for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Biomedical nanoparticles modulate specific CD4+ T cell stimulation by inhibition of antigen processing in dendritic cells

Understanding how nanoparticles may affect immune responses is an essential prerequisite to developing novel clinical applications. To investigate nanoparticle-dependent outcomes on immune responses, dendritic cells (DCs) were treated with model biomedical poly(vinylalcohol)-coated super-paramagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (PVA-SPIONs). PVA-SPIONs uptake by human monocyte-derived DCs (MDDCs) was analyzed by flow cytometry (FACS) and advanced imaging techniques. Viability, activation, function, and stimulatory capacity of MDDCs were assessed by FACS and an in vitro CD4+ T cell assay. PVA-SPION uptake was dose-dependent, decreased by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced MDDC maturation at higher particle concentrations, and was inhibited by cytochalasin D pre-treatment. PVA-SPIONs did not alter surface marker expression (CD80, CD83, CD86, myeloid/plasmacytoid DC markers) or antigen-uptake, but decreased the capacity of MDDCs to process antigen, stimulate CD4+ T cells, and induce cytokines. The decreased antigen processing and CD4+ T cell stimulation capability of MDDCs following PVA-SPION treatment suggests that MDDCs may revert to a more functionally immature state following particle exposure.

Chapter 4 - Applications of nanotechnology in molecular imaging of the brain

Rapid advances in the field of nanotechnology promise revolutionary improvements in the diagnosis and therapy of neuroinflammatory disorders. An array of iron oxide nano- and microparticle agents have been developed for in vivo molecular magnetic resonance imaging (mMRI) of cerebrovascular endothelial targets, such as vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), E-selectin, and the glycoprotein receptor GP IIb/IIIa expressed on activated platelets. Molecular markers of glioma cells, such as matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), and markers for brain tumor angiogenesis, such as alpha (v) beta (3) integrin (alpha(v)beta(3)), have also been successfully targeted using nanoparticle imaging probes. This chapter provides an overview of targeted, iron oxide nano- and microparticles that have been applied for in vivo mMRI of the brain in experimental models of multiple sclerosis (MS), brain ischemia, cerebral malaria (CM), brain cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. The potential of targeted nanoparticle agents for application in clinical imaging is also discussed, including multimodal and therapeutic approaches.

Characterization and performance of nucleic acid nanoparticles combined with protamine and gold

Macromolecular nucleic acids such as DNA vaccines, siRNA, and splice-site switching oligomers (SSO) have vast chemotherapeutic potential. Nanoparticulate biomaterials hold promise for DNA and RNA delivery when a means for binding is identified that retains structure-function and provides stabilization by the nanoparticles. In order to provide these benefits of binding, we combined DNA and RNA with protamine-demonstrating association to gold microparticles by electrophoretic, gel shot, fluorescence, and dynamic laser light spectroscopy (DLLS). A pivotal finding in these studies is that the Au-protamine-DNA conjugates greatly stabilize the DNA; and DNA structure and vaccine activity are maintained even after exposure to physical, chemical, and temperature-accelerated degradation. Specifically, protamine formed nanoparticles when complexed to RNA. These complexes could be detected by gel shift and were probed by high throughput absorbance difference spectroscopy (HTADS). Biological activity of these RNA nanoparticles (RNPs) was demonstrated also by a human tumor cell splice-site switching assay and by siRNA delivery against B-Raf-a key cancer target. Finally, RNA:protamine particles inhibited growth of cultured human tumor cells and bacteria. These data provide new insights into DNA and RNA nanoparticles and prospects for their delivery and chemotherapeutic activity.

Magnetically retainable microparticles for drug delivery to the joint: efficacy studies in an antigen-induced arthritis model in mice

Introduction

Conventional corticosteroid suspensions for the intra-articular treatment of arthritis suffer from limitations such as crystal formation or rapid clearance from the joint. The purpose of this study was to investigate an innovative alternative consisting of corticosteroid encapsulation into magnetically retainable microparticles.

Methods

Microparticles (1 or 10 μm) containing both superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) and dexamethasone 21-acetate (DXM) were prepared. In a preliminary study, we compared the persistence of microparticles of both sizes in the joint. A second study evaluated the influence of a subcutaneously implanted magnet near the knee on the retention of magnetic microparticles in the joint by in vivo imaging. Finally, the efficacy of 10-μm microparticles was investigated using a model of antigen-induced arthritis (AIA) in mice. Phosphate-buffered saline, DXM suspension, SPION suspension, blank microparticles and microparticles containing only SPIONs were used as controls. Arthritis severity was assessed using ^99mTc accumulation and histological scoring.

Results

Due to their capacity of encapsulating more corticosteroid and their increased joint retention, the 10-μm microparticles were more suitable vectors than the 1-μm microparticles for corticosteroid delivery to the joint. The presence of a magnet resulted in higher magnetic retention in the joint, as demonstrated by a higher fluorescence signal. The therapeutic efficacy in AIA of 10-μm microparticles containing DXM and SPIONs was similar to that of the DXM suspension, proving that the bioactive agent is released. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory effect of DXM-containing microparticles was more important than that of blank microparticles or microparticles containing only SPIONs. The presence of a magnet did not induce a greater inflammatory reaction.

Conclusions

This study confirms the effectiveness of an innovative approach of using magnetically retainable microparticles as intra-articular drug delivery systems. A major advantage comes from a versatile polymer matrix, which allows the encapsulation of many classes of therapeutic agents (for example, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitors), which may reduce systemic side effects.

Liposomal dexamethasone-diclofenac combinations for local osteoarthritis treatment

Conventional chronic and acute treatments for osteoarthritis (OA) are by oral NSAIDs (such as diclofenac) and intra-articular injected glucocorticosteroids (such as dexamethasone). In free form, diclofenac and dexamethasone generate severe adverse effects with risks of toxicity. To reduce these drawbacks, we investigated local injections of liposomal formulations for diclofenac and dexamethasone (each alone, and their combination). Bioadhesive liposomes carrying hyaluronan (HA-BAL) or collagen (COL-BAL) as their surface-anchored ligand were used for the task. Each drug alone or their combination showed high efficiency encapsulations (> or =80%) and performance as slow-release depots (half-lives in the range of 1-3 days under the fastest conditions). Employing RIA and immunoblot assay techniques, it was verified that the encapsulated drugs retained their biological activities: inhibitions of Cyclooxygenases enzyme-activity (diclofenac) and of Cyclooxygenases protein-expression (dexamethasone). Using live-animal MRI, a single intra-articular injection of each liposome-drug(s) formulation sufficed to reduce knee joint inflammation in OA rats over a time span of 17 days, HA-BAL better than COL-BAL. The most effective treatment was by the combination of both drugs in HA-BAL, a single dose reducing the inflammation volume down to 12.9% from initial over that time span. We find all three HA-BAL formulations worthy of further studies.

Dexamethasone-containing biodegradable superparamagnetic microparticles for intra-articular administration: physicochemical and magnetic properties, in vitro and in vivo drug release

Compared with traditional drug solutions or suspensions, polymeric microparticles represent a valuable means to achieve controlled and prolonged drug delivery into joints, but still suffer from the drawback of limited retention duration in the articular cavity. In this study, our aim was to prepare and characterize magnetic biodegradable microparticles containing dexamethasone acetate (DXM) for intra-articular administration. The superparamagnetic properties, which result from the encapsulation of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs), allow for microparticle retention with an external magnetic field, thus possibly reducing their clearance from the joint. Two molecular weights of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) were used, 12 and 19 kDa. The prepared batches were similar in size (around 10 microm), inner morphology, surface morphology, charge (neutral) and superparamagnetic behaviour. The SPION distribution in the microparticles assessed by TEM indicates a homogeneous distribution and the absence of aggregation, an important factor for preserving superparamagnetic properties. DXM release profiles were shown to be quite similar in vitro (ca. 6 days) and in vivo, using a mouse dorsal air pouch model (ca. 5 days).