Co-delivery of amphotericin B and pentamidine loaded niosomal gel for the treatment of Cutaneous leishmaniasis

Development of paroxetine loaded nanotransferosomal gel for intranasal delivery with enhanced antidepressant activity in rats

The aim of this study was to develop paroxetine (PXT) loaded nanotransferosomal gel (PXT-NTFG) for intranasal brain delivery. The process involved fabricating PXT-NTFs (paroxetine-loaded nanotransferosomes) through a thin film hydration method and optimizing them based on parameters such as particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI), and entrapment efficiency (EE). The optimized PXT-NTFs exhibited uniform morphology with a PS of 158.30 ± 2.73 nm, low PDI (0.142 ± 0.072), high ZP (21.00 ± 0.75 mV), and excellent EE (88.09 ± 3.40 %). Characterization through various techniques confirmed the incorporation of PXT into the nanotransferosomes and its conversion to amorphous state. Moreover, PXT-NTFG was formulated with suitable viscosity and mucoadhesive properties. In vitro release studies demonstrated sustained drug release from PXT-NTFG at different pH levels as compared to PXT-NTFs and NTF dispersion. Similarly, ex vivo experiments showed 4 folds enhanced drug permeation from PXT-NTFG when compared with PXT conventional gel. Stability studies indicated that the optimized PXT-NTFs remained stable for four months at 4°C and 25°C. Additionally, improved behavioral outcomes, increased neuronal survival rates, and upregulated brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression was observed in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced depressed Sprague-Dawley rats after treatment with PXT-NTFG as compared to PXT-dispersion treated and untreated LPS-control groups. Notably, the formulation led to a significant reduction in brain and plasma TNF-α levels. In conclusion, intranasal PXT-NTFG is a promising formulation with sustained drug release, improved brain targeting and enhanced antidepressant activity.

Thermoresponsive biomaterial system of irinotecan and curcumin for the treatment of colorectal cancer: in-vitro and in-vivo investigations

This study aims to develop a thermoresponsive biomaterial system of irinotecan (IRT) and curcumin (CUR) nano-transferosomal gel (IRT-CUR-NTG) for targeting colorectal cancer (CRC). The IRT-CUR-NTs were statistically optimized and loaded into poloxamer-based thermosensitive gel. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of the IRT-CUR-NTs were performed, whereas pH, gelation time, gelation temperature, gel and mucoadhesive strength of the IRT-CUR-NTG were investigated. In-vitro release and anticancer analyses were explored using HT29 cells. Additionally, in-vivo pharmacokinetics study was investigated followed by histopathological examination and in-vivo anticancer analysis. The PS, PDI, ZP, %EE of IRT and %EE of CUR were found to be 136.15 nm, 0.143, -15.5 mV, 95.05% and 85.12%, respectively. IRT-CUR-NTs exhibited spherical shape with no chemical interactions among the constituents. Similarly, IRT-CUR-NTG was homogenous gel suitable for rectal administration. IRT-CUR-NTG manifested prolonged release profiles of IRT and CUR. Moreover, a significantly enhanced (4-fold) bioavailability and no toxicity of IRT-CUR-NTG was observed when compared with conventional gel. IRT-CUR-NTs were found to be more effective against HT29 cell lines. In-vivo antitumor analysis demonstrated significantly reduced tumor volume and tumor mass after treatment with IRT-CUT-NTG, indicating improved antitumor effect. It can be concluded that IRT-CUR-NTG is suitable biomaterial system for colorectal cancer.

Resveratrol-loaded invasome gel: A promising nanoformulation for treatment of skin cancer

Skin cancer is a widespread type of cancer representing 30% of all cancer types worldwide. Resveratrol (RSV) is an anticancer drug used for skin cancer treatment. Several limitations of RSV such as poor aqueous solubility, first-pass metabolism, and instability limit their topical use. The study aimed to develop and optimize RSV-loaded invasomes for topical administration as well as assess their efficacy in vivo. The optimized RSV-loaded invasomes showed small particle size (208.7 ± 74 nm), PDI (0.3 ± 0.03), high % entrapment efficiency (77.7 ± 6%), and negative zeta potential (-70.4 ± 10.9 mV). They showed an initial burst effect followed by controlled drug release for 24 h. RSV-loaded invasomal gel revealed the highest skin deposition percentage (65%) in ex vivo rat skin, the highest potency (low IC50 of 6.34 μg/mL), and the highest cellular uptake when tested on squamous cancerous cells (SCCs) when compared to other formulations. The antitumor effect of topical RSV-loaded invasomes was also evaluated in vivo in Ehrlich-induced mice models. The results revealed that RSV-loaded invasomal gel exhibited the smallest tumor volume with no signs of organ toxicity indicating its safety in skin cancer treatment. Upregulation of BAX and Caspase-3 gene levels and downregulation of NF-kB and BCL2 protein levels were demonstrated using RT-PCR and ELISA tests, respectively. Interestingly, the present study is the first to develop RSV-loaded invasomal gel for topical skin cancer treatment. According to our results, invasomes are considered promising lipid-based nanosystems for topical RSV delivery having high skin penetration ability and anticancer effect in the treatment of skin carcinoma.

Enhancing the efficacy of fluconazole against Leishmania major: Formulation and evaluation of FLZ-nanoemulsions for topical delivery

BACKGROUND

Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) remains a significant public health concern, particularly in the tropical and subtropical regions. Present treatment options for CL such as Fluconazole (FLZ) face limitations, including low solubility and bioavailability. This study aimed to address these challenges by investigating the use of nano-emulsions (NEs) to enhance the efficacy of FLZ against Leishmania major(L.major).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

FLZ-NEs were formulated with oleic acid, Tween-20, and ethanol using low-energy emulsification at various surfactant/co-surfactant ratios. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis was conducted to assess the physicochemical characteristics of the samples. This analysis encompassed stability, zeta potential, pH, viscosity, refractive index, and droplet size. We then studied the anti-parasitic properties of these optimized FLZ-NEs both in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

The selected nano-emulsion (NE) formulation (2 % oleic acid, 20 % Tween 20, 10 % ethyl alcohol) showcased desirable properties like small droplet size (10.51 ± 0.24 nm), low dispersity (0.19 ± 0.03), and zeta potential value (- 0.41 ± 0.17 mV), key for stability and targeted drug delivery. This optimal formulation translated into remarkable efficacy. In vitro, FLZ-NEs demonstrated a threefold increase in their ability to combat promastigotes and a remarkable thirtyfold increase in their ability to combat amastigotes. Additionally, they demonstrated a ninefold advantage in their ability to specifically target parasites within infected macrophages, thereby attacking the infection site. These promising in vitro results translated into improved outcomes in vivo. Compared to other chemicals studied, FLZ-NE-treated mice showed decreased disease severity, weight growth, and quicker ulcer healing. It was further supported by histopathological research, which showed reduced tissue damage linked to Leishmania infection.

CONCLUSION

These findings show the potential of nanotechnology-based drug delivery in improving anti-leishmanial treatment.

Hepatoprotective effect of diammonium glycyrrhizinate and neuroprotective effect of piperazine ferulate on AmB-induced liver and kidney injury by suppressing apoptosis in vitro and in vivo

Amphotericin B (AmB) induced liver and kidney injury is often responsible for hepatic and renal dysfunction. Therefore, the protection strategy on liver and renal functions in patients treated with AmB should be emphasized. In this paper, diammonium glycyrrhizinate (DG) and piperazine ferulate (PF) were taken as the research object to study its hepatoprotective and neuroprotective effect on AmB-induced liver and kidney damage in vitro and in vivo. The microplate method and ELISA kits were employed for the biochemical detection in the serum and urine of mice. Flow cytometric analysis and western blotting analysis were conducted to study the mechanism of DG and PF. Our results confirmed the prevention capacity of DG and PF on AmB-induced liver and kidney injury through the alleviation of pathological changes and enzyme reducing action. Furthermore, DG and PF suppressed ROS-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis in AmB-treated mice and cells through Caspase pathway and Caspase-independent AIF pathway. In summary, DG and PF could protect AmB-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity by disrupting oxidative stress and apoptosis.

Progress in Topical and Transdermal Drug Delivery Research-Focus on Nanoformulations

Skin is the largest organ and a multifunctional interface between the body and its environment. It acts as a barrier against cold, heat, injuries, infections, chemicals, radiations or other exogeneous factors, and it is also known as the mirror of the soul. The skin is involved in body temperature regulation by the storage of fat and water. It is an interesting tissue in regard to the local and transdermal application of active ingredients for prevention or treatment of pathological conditions. Topical and transdermal delivery is an emerging route of drug and cosmetic administration. It is beneficial for avoiding side effects and rapid metabolism. Many pharmaceutical, technological and cosmetic innovations have been described and patented recently in the field. In this review, the main features of skin morphology and physiology are presented and are being followed by the description of classical and novel nanoparticulate dermal and transdermal drug formulations. The biophysical aspects of the penetration of drugs and cosmetics into or across the dermal barrier and their investigation in diffusion chambers, skin-on-a-chip devices, high-throughput measuring systems or with advanced analytical techniques are also shown. The current knowledge about mathematical modeling of skin penetration and the future perspectives are briefly discussed in the end, all also involving nanoparticulated systems.

A review on potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of leishmaniasis

Leishmania, a protozoan parasite, is responsible for the occurrence of leishmaniasis, a disease that is prevalent in tropical regions. Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL), also known as kala-azar in Asian countries, is one of the most significant forms of VL, along with Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) and Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis (ML). Management of this condition typically entails the use of chemotherapy as the sole therapeutic option. The current treatments for leishmaniasis present several drawbacks, including a multitude of side effects, prolonged treatment duration, disparate efficacy across different regions, and the emergence of resistance. To address this urgent need, it is imperative to identify alternative treatments that are both safer and more effective. The identification of appropriate pharmacological targets in conjunction with biological pathways constitutes the initial stage of drug discovery. In this review, we have addressed the key metabolic pathways that represent potential pharmacological targets as well as prominent treatment options for leishmaniasis.

Preparation and characterization of artemether-loaded niosomes in Leishmania major-induced cutaneous leishmaniasis

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is the most prevalent form of leishmaniasis worldwide. Although various anti-leishmanial regimens have been considered, due to the lack of efficacy or occurrence of adverse reactions, design and development of novel topical delivery systems would be essential. This study aimed to prepare artemether (ART)-loaded niosomes and evaluate their anti-leishmanial effects against Leishmania major. ART-loaded niosomes were prepared through the thin-film hydration technique and characterized in terms of particle size, zeta potential, morphology, differential scanning calorimetry, drug loading, and drug release. Furthermore, anti-leishmanial effect of the preparation was assessed in vitro and in vivo. The prepared ART-loaded niosomes were spherical with an average diameter of about 100 and 300 nm with high encapsulation efficiencies of > 99%. The results of in vitro cytotoxicity revealed that ART-loaded niosomes had significantly higher anti-leishmanial activity, lower general toxicity, and higher selectivity index (SI). Half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of ART, ART-loaded niosomes, and liposomal amphotericin B were 39.09, 15.12, and 20 µg/mL, respectively. Also, according to the in vivo study results, ART-loaded niosomes with an average size of 300 nm showed the highest anti-leishmanial effects in animal studies. ART-loaded niosomes would be promising topical drug delivery system for the management of cutaneous leishmaniasis.

Composition, preparation methods, and applications of nanoniosomes as codelivery systems: a review of emerging therapies with emphasis on cancer

Nanoniosome-based drug codelivery systems have become popular therapeutic instruments, demonstrating tremendous promise in cancer therapy, infection treatment, and other therapeutic domains. An emerging form of vesicular nanocarriers, niosomes are self-assembling vesicles composed of nonionic surfactants, along with cholesterol or other amphiphilic molecules. This comprehensive review focuses on how nanosystems may aid in making anticancer and antibacterial pharmaceuticals more stable and soluble. As malleable nanodelivery instruments, the composition, types, preparation procedures, and variables affecting the structure and stability of niosomes are extensively investigated. In addition, the advantages of dual niosomes for combination therapy and the administration of multiple medications simultaneously are highlighted. Along with categorizing niosomal drug delivery systems, a comprehensive analysis of various preparation techniques, including thin-layer injection, ether injection, and microfluidization, is provided. Dual niosomes for cancer treatment are discussed in detail regarding the codelivery of two medications and the codelivery of a drug with organic, plant-based bioactive compounds or gene agents. In addition, niogelosomes and metallic niosomal carriers for targeted distribution are discussed. The review also investigates the simultaneous delivery of bioactive substances and gene agents, including siRNA, microRNA, shRNA, lncRNA, and DNA. Additional sections discuss the use of dual niosomes for cutaneous drug delivery and treating leishmanial infections, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The study concludes by delineating the challenges and potential routes for nanoniosome-based pharmaceutical codelivery systems, which will be useful for nanomedicine practitioners and researchers.

Development and Evaluation of Tacrolimus Loaded Nano-Transferosomes for Skin Targeting and Dermatitis Treatment

Tacrolimus (TRL) is used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) due to its T-cell stimulation effect. However, its significantly poor water solubility, low penetration and cytotoxicity have reduced its topical applications. Herein, tacrolimus loaded nano transfersomes (TRL-NTs) were prepared, followed by their incorporation into chitosan gel to prepare tacrolimus loaded nano transfersomal gel (TRL-NTsG). TEM analysis of the TRL-NTs was performed to check their morphology. DSC, XRD and FTIR analysis of the TRL-NTs were executed after lyophilization. Similarly, rheology, spreadability and deformability of the TRL-NTsG were investigated. In vitro release, ex vivo permeation and in vitro interaction of TRL-NTsG with keratinocytes and fibroblasts as well as their co-cultures were investigated along with their in vitro cell viability analysis. Moreover, in vivo skin deposition, ear thickness, histopathology and IgE level were also determined. Besides, 6 months stability study was also performed. Results demonstrated the uniformly distributed negatively charged nanovesicles with a mean particle size distribution of 163 nm and zeta potential of -27 mV. DSC and XRD exhibited the thermal stability and amorphous form of the drug, respectively. The TRL-NTsG showed excellent deformability, spreadability and rheological behavior. In vitro release studies exhibited an 8-fold better release of TRL from the TRL-NTsG. Similarly, 6-fold better permeation and stability of the TRL-NTsG with keratinocytes and fibroblasts as well as their co-cultures was observed. Furthermore, the ear thickness (0.6 mm) of the TRL-NTsG was found significantly reduced when compared with the untreated (1.7 mm) and TRL conventional gel treated mice (1.3 mm). The H&E staining showed no toxicity of the TRL-NTsG with significantly reduced IgE levels (120 ng/mL). The formulation was found stable for at least 6 months. These results suggested the efficacy of TRL in AD-induced animal models most importantly when incorporated in NTsG.

Material and Design Toolkit for Drug Delivery: State of the Art, Trends, and Challenges

The nanomaterial and related toolkit have promising applications for improving human health and well-being. Nanobased drug delivery systems use nanoscale materials as carriers to deliver therapeutic agents in a targeted and controlled manner, and they have shown potential to address issues associated with conventional drug delivery systems. They offer benefits for treating various illnesses by encapsulating or conjugating biological agents, chemotherapeutic drugs, and immunotherapeutic agents. The potential applications of this technology are vast; however, significant challenges exist to overcome such as safety issues, toxicity, efficacy, and insufficient capacity. This article discusses the latest developments in drug delivery systems, including drug release mechanisms, material toolkits, related design molecules, and parameters. The concluding section examines the limitations and provides insights into future possibilities.

Quality by design for sumatriptan loaded nano-ethosomal mucoadhesive gel for the therapeutic management of nitroglycerin induced migraine

Migraine is a progressive neurological condition often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Various drugs have recently been used in the treatment of migraine, including sumatriptan (SUT). However, SUT has poor pharmacological effects mainly due to its reduced permeability, blood brain barrier (BBB) effect, half-life and bioavailability. Herein, we developed SUT loaded nano-ethosomes (SUT-NEs) for intranasal (IN) delivery, after their incorporation into chitosan based mucoadhesive gel (SUT-NEsG). The observed mean particle size of SUT-NEs was 109.45 ± 4.03 nm with spherical morphology, mono dispersion (0.191 ± 0.001), negatively charged (-20.90 ± 1.98 mV) and with excellent entrapment efficiency (96.90 ± 1.85 %). Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra have depicted the compatibility of the components. Moreover, SUT-NEsG was homogeneous having suitable viscosity and mucoadhesive strength. In vitro release and ex vivo permeation analysis showed sustained release and improved permeation of the SUT-NEsG, respectively. Additionally, histopathological studies of nasal membrane affirmed the safety of SUT-NEsG after IN application. In vivo pharmacokinetic study demonstrated improved brain bioavailability of SUT-NEsG as compared to orally administered sumatriptan solution (SUT-SL). Furthermore, significantly enhanced pharmacological effect of SUT-NEsG was observed in behavioral and biochemical analysis, immunohistochemistry for NF-κB, and enzyme linked immuno assay (ELISA) for IL-1β and TNF-α in Nitroglycerin (NTG) induced migraine model. It can be concluded that migraine may be successfully managed through IN application of SUT-NEsG owing to the direct targeted delivery to the brain.

An update on lipid-based nanodrug delivery systems for leishmaniasis treatment

Lipid-based nanodrug delivery systems hold considerable promise in therapeutic intervention for leishmaniasis by enhancing drug solubility and targeted delivery.

Investigation of the treatment potential of Raloxifene-loaded polymeric nanoparticles in osteoporosis: In-vitro and in-vivo analyses

Osteoporosis (OP), is a systemic bone disorder associated with low bone mass and bone tissue corrosion. Worsening of the disease condition leads to bone delicacy and fracture. Various drugs are available for the treatment of OP, however they have limitations including poor solubility, bioavailability and toxicity. Herein, Raloxifene-loaded polymeric nanoparticles (RLX-PNPs) were developed and investigated for the treatment of OP with possible solutions to the above mentioned problems. RLX-PNPs were prepared by modified ionic gelation method followed by determining their particle properties. FTIR, DSC and PXRD analysis of the RLX-PNPs were performed to check chemical interaction, thermal behavior and crystallinity, respectively. In-vitro release profile of RLX-PNPs was checked in lab setting, whereas its pharmacokinetics was investigated in Sprague-Dawley rats, in-vivo. Finally, the treatment potential of RLX-PNPs was analyzed in OP induced animal model. The optimized PNPs formulation indicated 134.5 nm particle size, +24.4 mV charge and 91.73% % EE. TEM analysis showed spherical and uniform sized particles with no interactions observed in FTIR analysis. In-vitro release of RLX from RLX-PNPs showed more sustained release behavior as compared to RLX-suspension. Moreover, pharmacokinetic investigations showed a significantly enhanced bioavailability of the RLX-PNPs as well as reduced serum levels of alkaline phosphatase and calcium in OP induced rats when compared with RLX-Suspension after oral administration. Findings of this study suggested that the developed RLX-PNPs have the potential to treat OP due to sustained release and improved bioavailability of the incorporated drug.