PLGA nanoparticles for the oral delivery of nuciferine: preparation, physicochemical characterization and in vitro/in vivo studies

Pioglitazone Phases and Metabolic Effects in Nanoparticle-Treated Cells Analyzed via Rapid Visualization of FLIM Images

Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) has proven to be a useful method for analyzing various aspects of material science and biology, like the supramolecular organization of (slightly) fluorescent compounds or the metabolic activity in non-labeled cells; in particular, FLIM phasor analysis (phasor-FLIM) has the potential for an intuitive representation of complex fluorescence decays and therefore of the analyzed properties. Here we present and make available tools to fully exploit this potential, in particular by coding via hue, saturation, and intensity the phasor positions and their weights both in the phasor plot and in the microscope image. We apply these tools to analyze FLIM data acquired via two-photon microscopy to visualize: (i) different phases of the drug pioglitazone (PGZ) in solutions and/or crystals, (ii) the position in the phasor plot of non-labelled poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs), and (iii) the effect of PGZ or PGZ-containing NPs on the metabolism of insulinoma (INS-1 E) model cells. PGZ is recognized for its efficacy in addressing insulin resistance and hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus, and polymeric nanoparticles offer versatile platforms for drug delivery due to their biocompatibility and controlled release kinetics. This study lays the foundation for a better understanding via phasor-FLIM of the organization and effects of drugs, in particular, PGZ, within NPs, aiming at better control of encapsulation and pharmacokinetics, and potentially at novel anti-diabetics theragnostic nanotools.

A Review of the Potential of Poly-(lactide-co-glycolide) Nanoparticles as a Delivery System for an Active Antimycobacterial Compound, 7-Methyljuglone

7-Methyljuglone (7-MJ) is a pure compound isolated from the roots of Euclea natalensis A. DC., a shrub indigenous to South Africa. It exhibits significant promise as a potential treatment for the highly communicable disease tuberculosis (TB), owing to its effective antimycobacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Despite its potential therapeutic benefits, 7-MJ has demonstrated in vitro cytotoxicity against various cancerous and non-cancerous cell lines, raising concerns about its safety for consumption by TB patients. Therefore, this review focuses on exploring the potential of poly-(lactide-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles as a delivery system, which has been shown to decrease in vitro cytotoxicity, and 7-MJ as an effective antimycobacterial compound.

Intra-articular administration of PLGA resveratrol sustained-release nanoparticles attenuates the development of rat osteoarthritis

Our previous studies have confirmed that resveratrol (RSV) can prevent the development of osteoarthritis through a variety of mechanisms, such as apoptosis inhibition, autophagy induction and SIRT 1 activation. However, the pharmaceutical application of RSV is mainly limited by its low bioavailability. Here, we designed and synthesized RSV-loaded poly (D, l-lactide-coglycolide acid) (PLGA)-nanoparticles (NPs). The average particle size, polydispersity index and positive charge of RSV-loaded PLGA NPs were 50.40 nm, 0.217 and 12.57 mV, respectively. These nanoparticles had marked encapsulation efficiency (92.35 %) and drug loading (15.1 %) for RSV. It was found that RSV-loaded PLGA NPs not only inhibited the apoptosis of chondrocytes induced by IL-1, but also rescued GAG loss in vitro. Pharmacokinetic data showed that RSV-loaded PLGA NPs demonstrated a significantly profound and prolonged concentration profile in joint tissues, with quantifiable RSV concentrations over 35 days. The therapeutic effects of RSV-loaded PLGA NPs were then examined in rat osteoarthritis models. In vitro magnetic resonance imaging results showed that RSV-loaded PLGA NPs treatment dramatically reduced both T1ρ and T2 relaxation times at 4, 8, 12 weeks during administration, implying that cartilage destruction was alleviated. Histological assessments showed that RSV-loaded PLGA NPs significantly improved osteoarthritis symptoms. Gene expression analysis revealed that osteoarthritis mediator genes were downregulated in rats treated with RSV-PLGA NPs. Mechanistic studies indicated that RSV-loaded PLGA NPs inhibit apoptosis and promote autophagy. Collectively, this study demonstrates that intra-articular delivery of RSV via PLGA NPs might be an effective therapeutic approach for osteoarthritis.

Zinc-Phthalocyanine Loaded PLGA-PVA-Chitosan Nanosystem for the Enhancement of Antidiabetic Activity

Zinc, one of the most common nutraceutical agents, proved to be effective for diabetes as it regulates the blood glucose level by inhibiting glucagon secretion. However, the hepatotoxicity of zinc creates necrosis, hepatic glycogen depletion, and apoptosis of hepatocytes at the concentration of 10 μg/kg. Phthalocyanine, a blue-colored compound, is an aromatic macrocyclic compound with good antioxidant ability owing to its heterocyclic nitrogen conjugation. The conjugation of zinc with phthalocyanine aimed to reduce the toxicity associated with zinc and enhance the antidiabetic activity at a lower dose. Hence, the present research work possessed the insights of the synthetic aspect of zinc with phthalocyanine along with its entrapment in the poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-chitosan nanosystem via oral administration in the treatment of diabetes. A nanoprecipitation technique was implemented for the synthesis of PLGA chitosan nanoparticles, and formulation was further optimized using a central composite design. Twenty trials provided by the software selected optimum concentrations of PLGA, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and chitosan in consideration with particle size up to 335.6 nm, zeta potential 27.87 mV, and entrapment efficiency of 75.67 ± 8.13%. Addition of chitosan to the nanocarrier system for controlling the release of the drug for 3 days was accompanied by the improvement in the glucose level within 28 days. The delivery of the nanoparticles showed enhancement in the cholesterol, triglyceride, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urine parameters, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. The application of DoE (design of experiments) for the optimization of the nanoparticles established a controlled release formulation for diabetes, which displayed safety and effectiveness in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

Development of gummy bear supplements and in vitro exploration of antioxidant and antiproliferative potential of Nuciferine

BACKGROUND

Nuciferine's extensive therapeutic potential, including its robust antioxidant properties, is explored in response to the growing consumer preference for value-added organic foods.

OBJECTIVE

This study focuses on the formulation of gummy bear supplements fortified with nuciferine from Nelumbonucifera. The research highlights nuciferine's ability to combat oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and examines its application in maintaining basal ROS levels during oxidative stress conditions in skin melanoma cells.

METHODS

Characterization of extracted nuciferine through FTIR and UV-vis spectroscopy ensures product quality, while sensory evaluation compares honey and sugar as natural sweeteners for optimal flavor and consumer preference. SK-Mel-28 cellular ROS levels were measured using 2',7' -dichlorofluorescin diacetate dye before and after nuciferine treatment. SK-Mel-28 cell viability and dose response of nuciferine treatment was assessed using MTT assay.

RESULTS

Nuciferine shows potent inhibition of SK-Mel-28 cell proliferation with an IC50 of 39.31 ± 5.280 μg/ml and showed no cytotoxicity in normal L6 skeletal muscle cells. This study compares the sensory properties of honey and sugar based gummy bear formulations.

CONCLUSION

This project aims to create a high-quality, health-promoting dietary supplement that aligns with the evolving trends in organic nutrition and antioxidant supplementation.

Oral Insulin Delivery: A Review on Recent Advancements and Novel Strategies

BACKGROUND

Due to the lifestyle of people in the community in recent years, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus has increased, so New drugs and related treatments are also being developed.

INTRODUCTION

One of the essential treatments for diabetes today is injectable insulin forms, which have their problems and limitations, such as invasive and less admission of patients and high cost of production. According to the mentioned issues, Theoretically, Oral insulin forms can solve many problems of injectable forms.

METHODS

Many efforts have been made to design and introduce Oral delivery systems of insulin, such as lipid-based, synthetic polymer-based, and polysaccharide-based nano/microparticle formulations. The present study reviewed these novel formulations and strategies in the past five years and checked their properties and results.

RESULTS

According to peer-reviewed research, insulin-transporting particles may preserve insulin in the acidic and enzymatic medium and decrease peptide degradation; in fact, they could deliver appropriate insulin levels to the intestinal environment and then to blood. Some of the studied systems increase the permeability of insulin to the absorption membrane in cellular models. In most investigations, in vivo results revealed a lower ability of formulations to reduce BGL than subcutaneous form, despite promising results in in vitro and stability testing.

CONCLUSION

Although taking insulin orally currently seems unfeasible, future systems may be able to overcome mentioned obstacles, making oral insulin delivery feasible and producing acceptable bioavailability and treatment effects in comparison to injection forms.

Nuciferine-loaded chitosan hydrogel-integrated 3D-printed polylactic acid scaffolds for bone tissue engineering: A combinatorial approach

Critical-sized bone defects resulting from severe trauma and open fractures cannot spontaneously heal and require surgical intervention. Limitations of traditional bone grafting include immune rejection and demand-over-supply issues leading to the development of novel tissue-engineered scaffolds. Nuciferine (NF), a plant-derived alkaloid, has excellent therapeutic properties, but its osteogenic potential is yet to be reported. Furthermore, the bioavailability of NF is obstructed due to its hydrophobicity, requiring an efficient drug delivery system, such as chitosan (CS) hydrogel. We designed and fabricated polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds via 3D printing and integrated them with NF-containing CS hydrogel to obtain the porous biocomposite scaffolds (PLA/CS-NF). The fabricated scaffolds were subjected to in vitro physicochemical characterization, cytotoxicity assays, and osteogenic evaluation studies. Scanning electron microscopic studies revealed uniform pore size distribution on PLA/CS-NF scaffolds. An in vitro drug release study showed a sustained and prolonged release of NF. The cyto-friendly nature of NF in PLA/CS-NF scaffolds towards mouse mesenchymal stem cells (mMSCs) was observed. Also, cellular and molecular level studies signified the osteogenic potential of NF in PLA/CS-NF scaffolds on mMSCs. These results indicate that the PLA/CS-NF scaffolds could promote new bone formation and have potential applications in bone tissue engineering.

Thymol-Modified Oleic and Linoleic Acids Encapsulated in Polymeric Nanoparticles: Enhanced Bioactivity, Stability, and Biomedical Potential

Unsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid (OA) and linoleic acid (LA), are promising antimicrobial and cytostatic agents. We modified OA and LA with thymol (TOA and TLA, respectively) to expand their bioavailability, stability, and possible applications, and encapsulated these derivatives in polymeric nanoparticles (TOA-NPs and TLA-NPs, respectively). Prior to synthesis, we performed mathematical simulations with PASS and ADMETlab 2.0 to predict the biological activity and pharmacokinetics of TOA and TLA. TOA and TLA were synthesized via esterification in the presence of catalysts. Next, we formulated nanoparticles using the single-emulsion solvent evaporation technique. We applied dynamic light scattering, Uv-vis spectroscopy, release studies under gastrointestinal (pH 1.2-6.8) and blood environment simulation conditions (pH 7.4), and in vitro biological activity testing to characterize the nanoparticles. PASS revealed that TOA and TLA have antimicrobial and anticancer therapeutic potential. ADMETlab 2.0 provided a rationale for TOA and TLA encapsulation. The nanoparticles had an average size of 212-227 nm, with a high encapsulation efficiency (71-93%), and released TOA and TLA in a gradual and prolonged mode. TLA-NPs possessed higher antibacterial activity against B. cereus and S. aureus and pronounced cytotoxic activity against MCF-7, K562, and A549 cell lines compared to TOA-NPs. Our findings expand the biomedical application of fatty acids and provide a basis for further in vivo evaluation of designed derivatives and formulations.

Natural aporphine alkaloids: A comprehensive review of phytochemistry, pharmacokinetics, anticancer activities, and clinical application

BACKGROUND

Cancer is the most common cause of death and is still a serious public health problem. Alkaloids, a class of bioactive compounds widely diffused in plants, especially Chinese herbs, are used as functional ingredients, precursors, and lead compounds in food and clinical applications. Among them, aporphine alkaloids (AAs), as an important class of isoquinoline alkaloids, exert a strong anticancer effect on multiple cancer types.

AIM OF REVIEW

This review aims to comprehensively summarize the phytochemistry, pharmacokinetics, and bioavailability of seven subtypes of AAs and their derivatives from various plants and highlight their anticancer bioactivities and mechanisms of action. Key Scientific Concepts of Review. The chemical structures and botanical diversity of AAs are elucidated, and promising results are highlighted regarding the potent anticancer activities of AAs and their derivatives, contributing to their pharmacological benefits. This work provides a better understanding of AAs and combinational anticancer therapies involving them, thereby improving the development of functional food containing plant-derived AA and the clinical application of AAs.

Research Progress on Neuroprotective Effects of Isoquinoline Alkaloids

Neuronal injury and apoptosis are important causes of the occurrence and development of many neurodegenerative diseases, such as cerebral ischemia, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Although the detailed mechanism of some diseases is unknown, the loss of neurons in the brain is still the main pathological feature. By exerting the neuroprotective effects of drugs, it is of great significance to alleviate the symptoms and improve the prognosis of these diseases. Isoquinoline alkaloids are important active ingredients in many traditional Chinese medicines. These substances have a wide range of pharmacological effects and significant activity. Although some studies have suggested that isoquinoline alkaloids may have pharmacological activities for treating neurodegenerative diseases, there is currently a lack of a comprehensive summary regarding their mechanisms and characteristics in neuroprotection. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the active components found in isoquinoline alkaloids that have neuroprotective effects. It thoroughly explains the various mechanisms behind the neuroprotective effects of isoquinoline alkaloids and summarizes their common characteristics. This information can serve as a reference for further research on the neuroprotective effects of isoquinoline alkaloids.

Apocynin-loaded PLGA nanomedicine tailored with galactosylated chitosan intrigue asialoglycoprotein receptor in hepatic carcinoma: Prospective targeted therapy

Nature serves as a priceless source for phytomedicines to treat different types of cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Apocynin (APO), an anti-cancer phytomedicine, is a particular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase (NADPH-oxidase) inhibitor, which has recently dawned for its multilateral pharmacological activities. As far as we are aware, no investigation has been carried out yet to develop a targeted-nanostructured delivery system of APO to HCC. Consequently, chitosan derivative with galactose groups namely; galactosylated chitosan (GC), particularly recognized by the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGR), was synthesized and its chemical structure was thoroughly characterized by substantial techniques. Afterwards, GC-coated nanoplatform for hepatocyte attachment "APO-loaded galactosylated chitosan-coated poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (APO-loaded GC-coated PLGA NPs)" was developed. The prosperous APO-loaded GC-coated PLGA NPs would be comprehensively appraised through extensive investigations. Their solid state characterization using Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry proved APO's encapsulation in the polymeric matrix. Transmission electron microscopy imaging of the investigated NPs highlighted their spherical architecture with a nanosized range and a characteristic halo-like appearance traceable to the GC coating of the NPs' surface. Saliently, the results of in vitro cytotoxicity screening revealed the spectacular anti-cancer efficacy of APO-loaded GC-coated PLGA NPs formula against the HepG2 cell line. Moreover, the fluorescence microscope disclosed the distinguished cellular uptake of such formula via ASGPR mediated endocytosis. Inclusively, a multifunctional nano-phytomedicine delivery system with a promising active hepatocyte-targeting, effective uptake into HepG2 cells, and sustained drug release pattern was successfully developed.

Surfactant Mediated Accelerated and Discriminatory In Vitro Drug Release Method for PLGA Nanoparticles of Poorly Water-Soluble Drug

In vitro drug release testing is an important quality control tool for formulation development. However, the literature has evidence that poly-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA)-based formulations show a slower in vitro drug release than a real in vivo drug release. Much longer in vitro drug release profiles may not be reflective of real in vivo performances and may significantly affect the timeline for a formulation development. The objective of this study was to develop a surfactant mediated accelerated in vitro drug release method for the PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) of a novel chemotherapeutic agent AC1LPSZG, a model drug with a poor solubility. The Sotax USP apparatus 4 was used to test in vitro drug release in a phosphate buffer with a pH value of 6.8. The sink conditions were improved using surfactants in the order of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) < Tween 80 < cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The dissolution efficiency (DE) and area under the dissolution curve (AUC) were increased three-fold when increasing the CTAB concentration in the phosphate buffer (pH 6.8). Similar Weibull release kinetics and good linear correlations (R2~0.99) indicated a good correlation between the real-time in vitro release profile in the phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) and accelerated release profiles in the optimized medium. This newly developed accelerated and discriminatory in vitro test can be used as a quality control tool to identify critical formulation and process parameters to ensure a batch-to-batch uniformity. It may also serve as a surrogate for bioequivalence studies if a predictive in vitro in vivo correlation (IVIVC) is obtained. The results of this study are limited to AC1LPSZG NPs, but a similar consideration can be extended to other PLGA-based NPs of drugs with similar properties and solubility profiles.

Propitious maneuvering for delivery of the phytopharmaceutical "apocynin" to induced fulminant hepatitis in BALB/c mice: In vitro and in vivo assessments

Apocynin (APO), a specific nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase (NADPH-oxidase, NOX) inhibitor, has recently emerged as a bioactive phytochemical with eminent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities. To our knowledge, no research has been conducted to fabricate a mucoadhesive nanostructured delivery system of APO that targets the liver. Accordingly, chitosan (CS) surface decorated polymeric nanoparticulate delivery system (PNDS) was victoriously fabricated by double emulsion-solvent evaporation method. Herein, a randomized full 33 factorial design was employed to assess the impact of the independently processing parameters (IPPs) namely; (poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) amount (A)), (polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) concentration (B)), and (CS concentration (C)), on different dependently measured attributes (DMAs). The optimal APO-loaded chitosan-coated poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (APO-loaded CS-coated PLGA NPs) formula (F19) would be extensively appraised through meticulous in vitro-in vivo studies. Crucially, the results revealed that oral pre-treatment with the optimal formula evoked a prodigious in vivo hepatoprotective efficacy against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/D-(+)-galactosamine (D-GalN) induced fulminant hepatitis (FH) in BALB/c mice when compared with pure APO, uncoated F19, and plain NPs (P NPs) pretreated groups. In conclusion, APO-loaded CS-coated PLGA NPs could be considered as a promising oral mucoadhesive phytopharmaceutical PNDS to open new prospects for therapeutic intervention in inflammatory based liver diseases.

An eco-friendly extraction and purification method of nuciferine from Folium nelumbinis with p-sulfonatocalix[6]arenes

INTRODUCTION

Folium nelumbinis is used as vegetable, functional food and herbal medicine in Asia. p-Sulfonatocalix[6]arene (SC6A) is a water-soluble supramolecular macrocycle and has never been applied to the extraction of herbal products.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, SC6A-assisted extraction of nuciferine from Folium nelumbinis has been carried out to develop an eco-friendly extraction process with high extraction efficacy and easy operation.

METHODS

Single-factor experiments were adopted to obtain the optimal conditions for the SC6A-assisted extraction of nuciferine from Folium nelumbinis, and then nuciferine and SC6A were separated easily by one-step alkalization. The host-guest complexes between nuciferine and SC6A were analyzed by competitive fluorescence titration, DSC, FT-IR and ¹ H-NMR.

RESULTS

The optimal SC6A/Folium nelumbinis/solution ratio for extraction was 0.4:1:20 (g/g/mL), with a granulometric fraction below 180 μm and an extraction time of 1 h with soaking. The purity and recovery of nuciferine extracted with SC6A were increased 29.24 and 35.73 times compared with extraction with aqueous solution, respectively. Moreover, a good reusability of SC6A in the extraction of nuciferine was demonstrated. Competitive fluorescence titration, DSC, FT-IR and ¹ H-NMR characterization indicated that SC6A could form host-guest complexes with nuciferine at a ratio of 1:1.

CONCLUSION

The study provided an eco-friendly, safe and effective nuciferine extraction method, which can be used for the development of nutrition supplements containing nuciferine.

A triple combination strategy of UHPLC-MSn, hypolipidemic activity and transcriptome sequencing to unveil the hypolipidemic mechanism of Nelumbo nucifera alkaloids

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Nelumbo nucifera (N. nucifera), a kind of edible Chinese herbal, has been studied in treating hyperlipidemia. However, the hypolipidemic mechanism of N. nucifera remains unknown. Aims of this review: We aimed to screen the effective constituent of N. nucifera alkaloids and elucidated the potential mechanism for treating hyperlipidemia. A triple combination strategy of UHPLC-MSⁿ, hypolipidemic activity and transcriptome sequencing was built to unveil the hypolipidemic mechanism of Nelumbo nucifera alkaloid.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We comprehensively investigated the characterization of N. nucifera alkaloids by using UHPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap MSⁿ. And the hypolipidemic activity of candidate active ingredients were evaluated on sodium oleate-induced HepG2 cell. Finally, O-nornuciferine and N. nucifera alkaloid extraction were analyzed by RNA sequence (RNA-seq) to decipher the underlying hypolipidemic mechanism and were verified by qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

35 compounds were identified from N. nucifera alkaloid extraction by UHPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap MSⁿ. Among them, O-nornuciferine and N. nucifera alkaloid extraction which showed significant hypolipidemic activity were analyzed by transcriptome sequencing. After the intervention of O-nornuciferine and N. nucifera alkaloid extraction, 1 and 158 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, severally. The enrichment analysis indicated that the hypolipidemic effect was adjusted by the expression of numerous key DEGs involved in bile secretion, glycerolipid and sphingolipid metabolism, PPAR signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

O-nornuciferine and N. nucifera alkaloids had exibited significant effects in hyperlipidemia. The candidate genes were LDLR, LPL and ANGPTL4, etc. It was most likely that they adjusted lipid metabolism by modulating expression levels of various key factors which were involved in bile secretion, glycerolipid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism and PPAR signaling pathway, and so on. This study clarified the hypolipidemic mechanism of the alkaloids in N. nucifera, and laid a foundation for the subsequent development of clinical application and better quality of N. nucifera.

Alkaloids from lotus (Nelumbo nucifera): recent advances in biosynthesis, pharmacokinetics, bioactivity, safety, and industrial applications

Different parts of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) including the seeds, rhizomes, leaves, and flowers, are used for medicinal purposes with health promoting and illness preventing benefits. The presence of active chemicals such as alkaloids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenoids (particularly alkaloids) may account for this plant's pharmacological effects. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview and summarize up-to-date research on the biosynthesis, pharmacokinetics, and bioactivity of lotus alkaloids as well as their safety. Moreover, the potential uses of lotus alkaloids in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors are explored. Current evidence shows that alkaloids, mainly consisting of aporphines, 1-benzylisoquinolines, and bisbenzylisoquinolines, are present in different parts of lotus. The bioavailability of these alkaloids is relatively low in vivo but can be enhanced by technological modification using nanoliposomes, liposomes, microcapsules, and emulsions. Available data highlights their therapeutic and preventive effects on obesity, diabetes, neurodegeneration, cancer, cardiovascular disease, etc. Additionally, industrial applications of lotus alkaloids include their use as food, medical, and cosmetic ingredients in tea, other beverages, and healthcare products; as lipid-lowering, anticancer, and antipsychotic drugs; and in facial masks, toothpastes, and shower gels. However, their clinical efficacy and safety remains unclear; hence, larger and longer human trials are needed to achieve their safe and effective use with minimal side effects.

Nuciferine, an active ingredient derived from lotus leaf, lights up the way for the potential treatment of obesity and obesity-related diseases

Obesity, is an increasingly global public health problem associated complications. However, the proven anti-obesity agents are inefficient with adverse side effects; hence attention is being paid to novel drugs from natural resources to manage obesity and obesity-related diseases. Nuciferine (NF) is a high-quality aporphine alkaloid present in lotus leaf. Unlike the chemical drugs, NF elicits anti-obesity, anti-dyslipidemia, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hypouricemic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects, and affinity to neural receptors, and protection against obesity-related diseases. The underlying mechanism of NF includes the regulation of targeted molecules and pathways related to metabolism, inflammation, and cancer and modulation of Ca²⁺ flux, gut microbiota, and ferroptosis. Besides, the clinical application, availability, pharmacokinetics, pharmaceutics, and security of NF have been established, highlighting the potential of developing NF as an anti-obesity agent. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive summarization, which sheds light on future research in NF.

Natural Aporphine Alkaloids with Potential to Impact Metabolic Syndrome

The incidence and prevalence of metabolic syndrome has steadily increased worldwide. As a major risk factor for various diseases, metabolic syndrome has come into focus in recent years. Some natural aporphine alkaloids are very promising agents in the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome and its components because of their wide variety of biological activities. These natural aporphine alkaloids have protective effects on the different risk factors characterizing metabolic syndrome. In this review, we highlight the activities of bioactive aporphine alkaloids: thaliporphine, boldine, nuciferine, pronuciferine, roemerine, dicentrine, magnoflorine, anonaine, apomorphine, glaucine, predicentrine, isolaureline, xylopine, methylbulbocapnine, and crebanine. We particularly focused on their impact on metabolic syndrome and its components, including insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus, endothelial dysfunction, hypertension and cardiovascular disease, hyperlipidemia and obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hyperuricemia and kidney damage, erectile dysfunction, central nervous system-related disorder, and intestinal microbiota dysbiosis. We also discussed the potential mechanisms of actions by aporphine alkaloids in metabolic syndrome.

Development of Rifapentine-Loaded PLGA-Based Nanoparticles: In vitro Characterisation and in vivo Study in Mice

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of death amongst infectious diseases. The poor response to antitubercular agents necessitates the long-term use of high drug doses, resulting in low patient compliance, which is the main reason for chemotherapy failure and contributes to the development of multidrug-resistant TB. Patient non-compliance has been a major obstacle in the successful management of TB. The aim of this work was to develop and characterise rifapentine (RPT)-loaded PLGA-based nanoparticles (NPs) for reducing dosing frequency.

Methods

RPT-loaded PLGA and PLGA–PEG NPs were prepared using premix membrane homogenisation combined with solvent evaporation method. The resulting NPs were characterised in terms of physicochemical characteristics, toxicity, cellular uptake and antitubercular activity. NPs were further evaluated for pharmacokinetic and biodistribution studies in mice.

Results

The resulting NPs showed suitable and safe physicochemical characteristics and could be taken up by macrophages. RPT-loaded NPs were more effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis than free RPT. In vivo studies revealed that NPs could improve pharmacokinetic parameters, particularly for RPT/PLGA–PEG NPs. Moreover, both formulations had no toxicity to the organs of mice and could reduce hepatotoxicity.

Conclusion

The application of PLGA-based NPs as sustained-release delivery vehicles for RPT could prolong drug release, modify pharmacokinetics, increase antitubercular activity and diminish toxicity, thereby allowing low dosage and frequency.

Indocyanine Green-Nexturastat A-PLGA Nanoparticles Combine Photothermal and Epigenetic Therapy for Melanoma

In this study, we describe poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-based nanoparticles that combine photothermal therapy (PTT) with epigenetic therapy for melanoma. Specifically, we co-encapsulated indocyanine green (ICG), a PTT agent, and Nexturastat A (NextA), an epigenetic drug within PLGA nanoparticles (ICG-NextA-PLGA; INAPs). We hypothesized that combining PTT with epigenetic therapy elicits favorable cytotoxic and immunomodulatory responses that result in improved survival in melanoma-bearing mice. We utilized a nanoemulsion synthesis scheme to co-encapsulate ICG and NextA within stable and monodispersed INAPs. The INAPs exhibited concentration-dependent and near-infrared (NIR) laser power-dependent photothermal heating characteristics, and functioned as effective single-use agents for PTT of melanoma cells in vitro. The INAPs functioned as effective epigenetic therapy agents by inhibiting the expression of pan-histone deacetylase (HDAC) and HDAC6-specific activity in melanoma cells in vitro. When used for both PTT and epigenetic therapy in vitro, the INAPs increased the expression of co-stimulatory molecules and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) Class I in melanoma cells relative to controls. These advantages persisted in vivo in a syngeneic murine model of melanoma, where the combination therapy slowed tumor progression and improved median survival. These findings demonstrate the potential of INAPs as agents of PTT and epigenetic therapy for melanoma.

Novel pH-sensitive and biodegradable micelles for the combined delivery of doxorubicin and conferone to induce apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line

pH-sensitive micelles are desirable for co-drug delivery in cancer chemotherapy.

Optimization and characterization of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles loaded with astaxanthin and evaluation of anti-photodamage effect in vitro

Astaxanthin is a xanthophyll carotenoid with high beneficial biological activities, such as antioxidant function and scavenging oxygen free radicals, but its application is limited because of poor water solubility and low bioavailability. Here, we prepared and optimized poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with astaxanthin using the emulsion solvent evaporation technique and investigated the anti-photodamage effect in HaCaT cells. The four-factor three-stage Box-Behnken design was used to optimize the nanoparticle formulation. The experimental determination of the optimal nanoparticle size was 154.4 ± 0.35 nm, the zeta potential was 22.07 ± 0.93 mV, encapsulation efficiency was 96.42 ± 0.73% and drug loading capacity was 7.19 ± 0.12%. The physico-chemical properties of the optimized nanoparticles were characterized by dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and thermo-gravimetric analyser. In vitro study exhibited the excellent cell viability and cellular uptake of optimized nanoparticles on HaCaT cells. The anti-photodamage studies (cytotoxicity assay, reactive oxygen species content and JC-1 assessment) demonstrated that the optimized nanoparticles were more effective and safer than pure astaxanthin in HaCaT cells. These results suggest that our PLGA-coated astaxanthin nanoparticles synthesis method was highly feasible and can be used in cosmetics or the treatment of skin diseases.

Multiple cargo deliveries of growth factors and antimicrobial peptide using biodegradable nanopolymer as a potential wound healing system

Background

Treatment of wounds with the help of nanoparticles (NPs) is more effective and superior in comparison to traditional wound healing methods as it protects and sustains active drug release at the wound site thus enhancing the safety of the drug and reducing the possibility of side effects. The advantages of this method are the possibility of allowing a reduction in administered dose, limiting toxicity levels to the minimum, and increasing safety of topical delivery of the drug.

Materials and methods

We report the synthesis of a novel poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) NP-based multicargo delivery system for growth factors and antimicrobial peptide. Growth factors vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were entrapped in PLGA NPs by solvent diffusion method and an antimicrobial peptide (K4) was conjugated to the NP by carbodiimide chemistry. The developed multiple cargo delivery systems with growth factors (VEGF and bFGF) and an antimicrobial peptide (K4) were investigated and optimized for potential wound healing.

Results

The system showed a sustained release of growth factors and was evaluated for cytotoxicity by MTT and live/dead assay, which revealed that the bioactivity of the growth factor-entrapped NPs was higher than that of free growth factors, and it also induced enhanced cell proliferation in vitro.

Conclusion

The development of a system for the codelivery of growth factors (VEGF and bFGF) and an antimicrobial peptide (K4) was investigated for potential wound healing application. The entrapment of growth factors with very high efficiency is an advantage in this method along with its sustained release from the nanoparticulate system, which will enhance the angiogenesis. Our system also displayed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Nuciferine inhibits the progression of glioblastoma by suppressing the SOX2-AKT/STAT3-Slug signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Nuciferine (NF), extracted from the leaves of N. nucifera Gaertn, has been shown to exhibit anti-tumor and anti-viral pharmacological properties. It can also penetrate the blood brain barrier (BBB). However, the mechanism by which NF inhibits glioblastoma (GBM) progression is not well understood. We aimed to determine the anti-tumor effect of NF on GBM cell lines and clarify the potential molecular mechanism involved.

METHODS

U87MG and U251 cell lines were used in vitro to assess the anti-tumor efficacy of NF. Cytotoxicity, viability, and proliferation were evaluated by MTT and colony formation assay. After Annexin V-FITC and PI staining, flow cytometry was performed to evaluate apoptosis and cell cycle changes in NF-treated GBM cells. Wound healing and Transwell assays were used to assess migration and invasion of GBM cells. Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence staining, immunohistochemistry, and bioinformatics were used to gain insights into the molecular mechanisms. Preclinical therapeutic efficacy was mainly estimated by ultrasound and MRI in xenograft nude mouse models.

RESULTS

NF inhibited the proliferation, mobility, stemness, angiogenesis, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of GBM cells. Additionally, NF induced apoptosis and G2 cell cycle arrest. Slug expression was also decreased by NF via the AKT and STAT3 signaling pathways. Interestingly, we discovered that NF affected GBM cells partly by targeting SOX2, which may be upstream of the AKT and STAT3 pathways. Finally, NF led to significant tumor control in GBM xenograft models.

CONCLUSIONS

NF inhibited the progression of GBM via the SOX2-AKT/STAT3-Slug signaling pathway. SOX2-targeting with NF may offer a novel therapeutic approach for GBM treatment.

Oral Delivery of Honokiol Microparticles for Nonrapid Eye Movement Sleep

Honokiol (HNK) is a small-molecule lignin extracted from Magnolia Officinalis, demonstrating high potency in promoting nonrapid eye movement (NREM) sleep by modulating the benzodiazepine site of the GABA_A receptor. However, the clinical use of HNK in the treatment of insomnia is restricted by its extremely low oral bioavailability. In the present work, enhanced oral bioavailability of HNK was achieved by loading it into poly lactide-glycolide acid microparticles (HNK-MP). After oral administration, HNK-MP demonstrated 15-fold increase of AUC_0-12 h in comparison to free HNK. The maximum blood concentration ( C_max) of HNK in HNK-MP-treated rats was 3.6 μg/mL at 2 h after oral administration, which was 6.5-fold of that in free HNK-treated rats. Oral administration of HNK-MP (20 mg/kg) efficiently increased NREM sleep by 60% by enhancing the transition from wakefulness to NREM sleep in rats. The biosafety of HNK-MP was assessed in vivo, and no damage occurred in the gastrointestinal tract. The present study provides a promising oral HNK formulation for the treatment of insomnia.

Paclitaxel-Loaded Core-Shell Magnetic Nanoparticles and Cold Atmospheric Plasma Inhibit Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Growth

Nanoparticle-based drug delivery allows effective and sustained delivery of therapeutic agents to solid tumors and has completely changed how cancer is treated. As a new technology for medical applications, cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) shows a great potential in selective cancer treatment. The aim of this work is to develop a new dual cancer treatment approach by integrating CAP with novel paclitaxel (PTX)-loaded nanoparticles for targeting A549 cells. For this purpose, PTX-loaded core-shell magnetic nanoparticles were prepared through coaxial electrospraying, and various characteristics were investigated. Biodegradable poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid) was selected as the polymer shell to encapsulate the anticancer therapeutics. Results demonstrated a uniform size distribution and high drug encapsulation efficiency of the electrosprayed nanoparticles, which had sustained release characteristics and a variety of excellent properties. An in vitro study showed that PTX-loaded nanoparticles and CAP synergistically inhibited the growth of A549 cells more effectively than when each was used individually. We also found that CAP could induce the PTX-loaded nanoparticles in tumor cells to increase the effective drug concentration to a level that might be conducive to reduce drug resistance. Therefore, the integration of PTX-encapsulated nanoparticles and CAP provides a promising tool for the development of a new non-small cell lung cancer treatment strategy.

Resveratrol-loaded PLGA nanoparticles: enhanced stability, solubility and bioactivity of resveratrol for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease therapy

Resveratrol (3, 4', 5-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene, RSV), a nutraceutical, has recently attracted lots of attention because of its outstanding pharmacological potential. The effects of RSV on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remain inconclusive, although a wealth of research has been done. The major obstacle presented was RSV's poor bioavailability due to its poor aqueous solubility, chemical instability and intestinal metabolism. In this study, nanotechnology was used to encapsulate RSV to enhance its stability, water solubility and bioactivity, which can be used to treat NAFLD by HepG2 hepatocytes-induced in vitro. RSV-loaded poly (d, l-lactide-co-glycolide acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (RSV-PLGA-NPs) were prepared according to an oil/water (O/W) emulsion technique. The RSV-PLGA-NPs were of spherical morphology with an average size of 176.1 nm and a negative charge of -22.6 mV. These nanoparticles exhibited remarkable encapsulation efficiency (EE%) (97.25%) and drug loading (14.9%) for RSV. A sustained RSV release from RSV-PLGA-NPs could be achieved especially in acidic conditions when simulating transporting through the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, these nanoparticles were stable enough to store at 4°C for a least six months with unchanged EE%. Moreover, RSV-PLGA-NPs were more efficient in alleviating lipogenesis, promoting lipolysis and reducing hepatocellular proliferation than free RSV due to its improved stability, water solubility and bioactivity. These findings indicated that the RSV-PLGA-NPs provided superb and stable drug delivery with small particle size, high capsulation efficiency, well-controlled drug release, which greatly enhanced the stability, water solubility and bioactivity. Besides, the discovery that the inhibitory effect of RSV-PLGA-NPs on hepatocellular proliferation and lipid accumulation in steatotic HepG2 cells may provide a new way to study the mechanism of NAFLD. Therefore, RSV-PLGA-NPs have a promising potential for NAFLD therapy.

Functionalizing PLGA and PLGA Derivatives for Drug Delivery and Tissue Regeneration Applications

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) is one of the most versatile biomedical polymers, already approved by regulatory authorities to be used in human research and clinics. Due to its valuable characteristics, PLGA can be tailored to acquire desirable features for control bioactive payload or scaffold matrix. Moreover, its chemical modification with other polymers or bioconjugation with molecules may render PLGA with functional properties that make it the Holy Grail among the synthetic polymers to be applied in the biomedical field. In this review, the physical-chemical properties of PLGA, its synthesis, degradation, and conjugation with other polymers or molecules are revised in detail, as well as its applications in drug delivery and regeneration fields. A particular focus is given to successful examples of products already on the market or at the late stages of trials, reinforcing the potential of this polymer in the biomedical field.

Insulin-loaded PLGA microspheres for glucose-responsive release

Porous poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres were prepared, loaded with insulin, and then coated in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and a novel boronic acid-containing copolymer [poly(acrylamide phenyl boronic acid-co-N-vinylcaprolactam); p(AAPBA-co-NVCL)]. Multilayer microspheres were generated using a layer-by-layer approach depositing alternating coats of PVA and p(AAPBA-co-NVCL) on the PLGA surface, with the optimal system found to be that with eight alternating layers of each coating. The resultant material comprised spherical particles with a porous PLGA core and the pores covered in the coating layers. Insulin could successfully be loaded into the particles, with loading capacity and encapsulation efficiencies reaching 2.83 ± 0.15 and 82.6 ± 5.1% respectively, and was found to be present in the amorphous form. The insulin-loaded microspheres could regulate drug release in response to a changing concentration of glucose. In vitro and in vivo toxicology tests demonstrated that they are safe and have high biocompatibility. Using the multilayer microspheres to treat diabetic mice, we found they can effectively control blood sugar levels over at least 18 days, retaining their glucose-sensitive properties during this time. Therefore, the novel multilayer microspheres developed in this work have significant potential as smart drug-delivery systems for the treatment of diabetes.

Co-delivery of docetaxel and bortezomib based on a targeting nanoplatform for enhancing cancer chemotherapy effects

Using facile polydopamine (PDA)-based surface modification and a pH-sensitive catechol-boronate binding mechanism, a novel drug delivery system was designed for the treatment of breast cancer. The system was able to achieve the following goals: active targeting, pH responsiveness, in vivo blood circulation for a prolonged period of time, and dual drug loading. After coating with PDA, the docetaxel (DTX)-loaded star-shaped copolymer cholic acid-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (CA-PLGA@PDA/NPs) were functionalized with amino-poly(ethylene glycol)-folic acid (NH2-PEG-FA) and bortezomib (BTZ) to form the targeting composition, DTX-loaded CA-PLGA@PDA-PEG-FA + BTZ/NPs. The novel NPs exhibited similar drug release characteristics compared to unfunctionalized CA-PLGA/NPs. Meanwhile, the incorporated NH2-PEG-FA contributed to active targeting which was illustrated by cellular uptake experiments and biodistribution studies. Moreover, the pH responsive binding between BTZ and PDA was demonstrated to be effective to release BTZ at the tumor acidic environment for synergistic action with DTX. Both in vitro cytotoxicity and in vivo antitumor studies demonstrated that the novel nanoplatform exhibited the most suitable therapeutic effects. Taken together, the versatile PDA modified DTX-loaded CA-PLGA@PDA-PEG-FA + BTZ/NPs offered a promising chemotherapeutic strategy for enhancing breast cancer treatment.