Preparation and in vitro/in vivo evaluation of 6-Gingerol TPGS/PEG-PCL polymeric micelles

Fabrication, optimization, and characterization of pH-responsive PEGylated nanoniosomes containing gingerol for enhanced treatment of breast cancer

Multiple potential drug delivery strategies have emerged as a result of recent advances in nanotechnology and nanomedicine. The aim of this research was to prepare an optimized system of PEGylated gingerol-loaded niosomes (Nio-Gin@PEG) as an excellent candidate for the treatment of human breast cancer cells. The preparation procedure was modified by adjusting the drug concentration, lipid content, and Span60/Tween60 ratio, resulting in high encapsulation efficacy (EE%), rapid release rate, and reduced size. The Nio-Gin@PEG exhibited significantly improved storage stability compared to the gingerol-loaded niosomes formulation (Nio-Gin), with minimal changes in EE%, release profile, and size during storage. Furthermore, Nio-Gin@PEG demonstrated pH-dependent release behavior, with delayed drug diffusion at physiological pH and significant drug diffusion under acidic conditions (pH = 5.4), making it a promising option for cancer treatment. Cytotoxicity tests indicated that Nio-Gin@PEG possessed excellent biocompatibility with human fibroblast cells while exerting a remarkable inhibitory effect on MCF-7 and SKBR3 breast cancer cells, attributed to the presence of gingerol and the PEGylated structure in the preparation. Nio-Gin@PEG also exhibited the ability to modulate the expression of target genes. We observed statistically significant down-regulation of the expression of BCL2, MMP2, MMP9, HER2, CCND1, CCNE1, BCL2, CDK4, and VEGF genes, along with up-regulation of the expression of BAX, CASP9, CASP3, and P21 genes. Flow cytometry results revealed that Nio-Gin@PEG could induce a higher rate of apoptosis in both cancerous cells compared to gingerol and Nio-Gin, owing to the optimal encapsulation and efficient drug release from the formulation, as confirmed by cell cycle tests. ROS generation demonstrated the superior antioxidant effect of Nio-Gin@PEG compared to other prepared formulations. The results of this study emphasize the potential of formulating highly biocompatible niosomes in the future of nanomedicine, enabling more precise and effective treatment of cancers.

TPGS Decorated Liposomes as Multifunctional Nano-Delivery Systems

Liposomes are sphere-shaped vesicles that can capture therapeutics either in the outer phospholipid bilayer or inner aqueous core. Liposomes, especially when surface-modified with functional materials, have been used to achieve many benefits in drug delivery, including improving drug solubility, oral bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and delivery to disease target sites such as cancers. Among the functional materials used to modify the surface of liposomes, the FDA-approved non-ionic surfactant D-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) is increasingly being applied due to its biocompatibility, lack of toxicity, applicability to various administration routes and ability to enhance solubilization, stability, penetration and overall pharmacokinetics. TPGS decorated liposomes are emerging as a promising drug delivery system for various diseases and are expected to enter the market in the coming years. In this review article, we focus on the multifunctional properties of TPGS-coated liposomes and their beneficial therapeutic applications, including for oral drug delivery, vaccine delivery, ocular administration, and the treatment of various cancers. We also suggest future directions to optimise the manufacture and performance of TPGS liposomes and, thus, the delivery and effect of encapsulated diagnostics and therapeutics.

Elucidating the Beneficial Effects of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) in Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer's disease (AD), and its pathogenesis remains obscure. Current treatment approaches mainly including levodopa and dopamine agonists provide symptomatic relief but fail to halt disease progression, and they are often accompanied by severe side effects. In this context, natural phytochemicals have received increasing attention as promising preventive or therapeutic candidates for PD, given their multitarget pharmaceutical mechanisms of actions and good safety profile. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Zingiberaceae) is a very popular spice used as a medicinal herb throughout the world since the ancient years, for a wide range of conditions, including nausea, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cancer. Emerging in vivo and in vitro evidence supports the neuroprotective effects of ginger and its main pharmaceutically active compounds (zingerone, 6-shogaol, and 6-gingerol) in PD, mainly via the regulation of neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, intestinal permeability, dopamine synaptic transmission, and possibly mitochondrial dysfunction. The regulation of several transcription factors and signaling pathways, including nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Ak strain transforming (Akt), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PGC1α) have been shown to contribute to the protective effects of ginger. Herein, we discuss recent findings on the beneficial role of ginger in PD as a preventive agent or potential supplement to current treatment strategies, focusing on potential underlying molecular mechanisms.

Tetracycline-grafted mPEG-PLGA micelles for bone-targeting and osteoporotic improvement

Aim: We aimed to create a nano drug delivery system with tetracycline (TC)-grafted methoxy poly-(ethylene-glycol)‒poly-(D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (mPEG‒PLGA) micelles (TC‒mPEG‒PLGA) with TC and mPEG‒PLGA for potential bone targeting. Prospectively, TC‒mPEG‒PLGA aims to deliver bioactive compounds, such as astragaloside IV (AS), for osteoporotic therapy.

Methods: Preparation and evaluation of TC‒mPEG‒PLGA were accomplished via nano-properties, cytotoxicity, uptake by MC3T3-E1 cells, ability of hydroxyapatite targeting and potential bone targeting in vivo, as well as pharmacodynamics in a rat model.

Results: The measured particle size of AS-loaded TC‒mPEG‒PLGA micelles was an average of 52.16 ± 2.44 nm, which exhibited a sustained release effect compared to that by free AS. The TC‒mPEG‒PLGA demonstrated low cytotoxicity and was easily taken by MC3T3-E1 cells. Through assaying of bone targeting in vitro and in vivo, we observed that TC‒mPEG‒PLGA could effectively increase AS accumulation in bone. A pharmacodynamics study in mice suggested potentially increased bone mineral density by AS-loaded TC‒mPEG‒PLGA in ovariectomized rats compared to that by free AS.

Conclusion: The nano drug delivery system (TC‒mPEG‒PLGA) could target bone in vitro and in vivo, wherein it may be used as a novel delivery method for the enhancement of therapeutic effects of drugs with osteoporotic activity.

Hyperoside-loaded TPGs/mPEG-PDLLA self-assembled polymeric micelles: preparation, characterization and in vitro/in vivo evaluation

Hyperoside (Hyp) self-assembled polymeric micelles (Hyp-PMs) were purposely developed to enhance aqueous solubility, in vivo availability and anti-oxidative effect of Hyp. In preparing Hyp-PMs, we employed the thin film dispersion method with the micelles consisting of TPGs and mPEG2000-PDLLA3000. The particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential of Hyp-PMs were 67.42 ± 1.44 nm, 0.229 ± 0.015 and -18.67 ± 0.576 mV, respectively, coupled with high encapsulation efficiency (EE)of 90.63 ± 1.45% and drug loading (DL) of 6.97 ± 1.56%. Furthermore, the value of critical micelle concentration (CMC) was quite low, which indicated good stability and improved self-assembly ability of Hyp-PMs. Also, trend of in vitro Hyp release from Hyp-PMs demonstrated enhanced solubility of Hyp. Similarly, in comparison with free Hyp, oral bioavailability of Hyp-PMs was improved (about 8 folds) whilst half-life of Hyp-PMs was extended (about 3 folds). In vitro anti-oxidative effect showed obvious strong scavenging DPPH capability of Hyp-PMs, which may be attributed to its smaller size and better solubility. Altogether, Hyp-PMs may serve as a possible strategy to potentially enhance aqueous solubility, bioavailability and anti-oxidative effect of Hyp, which may play a key role in Hyp application in the pharmaceutical industries.

Enhanced oral bioavailability and anti-hyperuricemic activity of liquiritin via a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system

BACKGROUND

This study focused on the development of a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) to improve, potentially, the solubility and oral bioavailability of liquiritin (LQ).

METHODS

The solubility of LQ in different types of excipient, namely oils (OLs), emulsifiers (EMs), and co-emulsifiers (CO-EMs), was evaluated, and a pseudo-ternary phase diagram (PTPD) and the formulation optimization were established. The prepared self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system of liquiritin (LQ-SNEDDS) was assessed using droplet size (DS), zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI), droplet morphology, drug release in vitro, and oral bioavailability.

RESULTS

After the dilution of the LQ-SNEDDS, a transparent nanoemulsion was obtained with an acceptable DS (24.70 ± 0.73 nm), ZP (-18.69 ± 1.44 mV), and PDI (0.122 ± 0.006). The LQ-SNEDDS that was developed had a better release rate in vitro than the free LQ suspension. Pharmacokinetic evaluation showed that the relative oral bioavailability of LQ-SNEDDS was increased by 5.53 times, and LQ-SNEDDS exhibited a delayed half life and longer retention time in comparison with those of free LQ. Similarly, LQ-SNEDDS had a better urate lowering effect and provided better organ protection than free LQ at the same dose (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The incorporation of LQ into SNEDDS could serve as a promising approach to improve the solubility, oral bioavailability, and anti-hyperuricemic effect of LQ. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Potential Role of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) in the Prevention of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Ginger is composed of multiple bioactive compounds, including 6-gingerol, 6-shogaol, 10-gingerol, gingerdiones, gingerdiols, paradols, 6-dehydrogingerols, 5-acetoxy-6-gingerol, 3,5-diacetoxy-6-gingerdiol, and 12-gingerol, that contribute to its recognized biological activities. Among them, the major active compounds are 6-shogaol and 6-gingerol. Scientific evidence supports the beneficial properties of ginger, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities and in contrast, a specific and less studied bioactivity is the possible neuroprotective effect. The increase in life expectancy has raised the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), which present common neuropathological features as increased oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and protein misfolding. The structure-activity relationships of ginger phytochemicals show that ginger can be a candidate to treat NDs by targeting different ligand sites. Its bioactive compounds may improve neurological symptoms and pathological conditions by modulating cell death or cell survival signaling molecules. The cognitive enhancing effects of ginger might be partly explained via alteration of both the monoamine and the cholinergic systems in various brain areas. Moreover, ginger decreases the production of inflammatory related factors. The aim of the present review is to summarize the effects of ginger in the prevention of major neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis.

Ginger: A complementary approach for management of cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Inflammation and oxidative stress play critical roles in progression of various types of CVD. Broad pharmacological properties of ginger (the rhizome of Zingiber officinale) and its bioactive components have been reported, suggesting that they can be a therapeutic choice for clinical use. Consistent with its rich phenolic content, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of ginger have been confirmed in many studies. Ginger modifies many cellular processes and in particular was shown to have potent inhibitory effects against nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB); signal transducer and activator of transcription; NOD-, LRR-, and pyrin domain-containing proteins; toll-like receptors; mitogen-activated protein kinase; and mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathways. Ginger also blocks pro-inflammatory cytokines and the activation of the immune system. Ginger suppresses the activity of oxidative molecules such as reactive oxygen species, inducible nitric oxide synthase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, heme oxygenase, and GSH-Px. In this report, we summarize the biochemical pathologies underpinning a variety of CVDs and the effects of ginger and its bioactive components, including 6-shogaol, 6-gingerol, and 10-dehydrogingerdione. The properties of ginger and its phenolic components, mechanism of action, biological functions, side effects, and methods for enhanced cell delivery are also discussed. Together with preclinical and clinical studies, the positive biological effects of ginger and its bioactive components in CVD support the undertaking of further in vivo and especially clinical studies.

Herbal Nanoformulations for Asthma Treatment

BACKGROUND

In recent decades, the prevalence of asthma has substantially increased worldwide. Advances in phytochemistry and phytopharmacology have clarified the active ingredients and biological activities of medicinal plant products for treating asthma, and the role of herbal therapies in asthma treatment has become increasingly evident. However, most plant extracts have low solubility and poor stability of bioactive components, resulting in low bioavailability and loss of efficacy. Owing to these shortcomings, the clinical use of many herbal extracts is limited.

OBJECTIVE

To summarise and analyse the characteristics of herbal nanoformulations and their application in asthma treatment. The objective of this review article is to address the emerging trends of herbal nanoformulations for an effective treatment for asthma.

METHODS

Various research and review articles from reputed international journals were referred and compiled.

RESULTS

The nano-sized herbal formulations improve the solubility and bioavailability of herbal medicines and contribute to the sustained release of drugs, thus, increasing the therapeutic applications of herbal extracts. The review present different types of herbal nanoformulations, including micelles, nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid-based liquid crystalline nanoparticles and nanoemulsions, which are potential nanodrugs for asthma treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Herbal nanoformulations have shown great prospects for treatment of asthma in recent years. More safety and toxicity data are still needed to promote their development and application.

Improved oral bioavailability, cellular uptake, and cytotoxic activity of zingerone via nano-micelles drug delivery system

Herein, a nano-micelle drug delivery system was developed to orally improved zingerone's bioavailability and its antitumor effect. Indeed, zingerone-loaded d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate micelles (ZTMs) were effectively prepared, characterised and assessed. The ZTMs had diameter, polydispersity index, and zeta potential of 50.62 ± 0.25 nm, 0.168 ± 0.006, and -28.07 ± 0.33 mV, respectively, coupled with a high entrapment efficiency (m/m, %) were 94.71 ± 2.02. The release rate of ZTMs in three media was significantly greater than that of free zingerone. Intriguingly, results obtained from pharmacokinetic studies showed that the oral bioavailability of the ZTMs was enhanced by 5.10 times in comparison with the free zingerone. Further, the half inhibitory concentration (IC50) of ZTMs and free zingerone was 7.56 μg/ml and 14.30 μg/ml, respectively, on HepG2 cells. Hence, ZTMs may be used as a potential approach to enrich the solubility, bioavailability, and concomitant anti-proliferative effect of zingerone in vitro.

Mixed micelles for enhanced oral bioavailability and hypolipidemic effect of liquiritin: preparation, in vitro and in vivo evaluation

OBJECTIVES

Liquiritin, as one of the main flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza, exhibits extensive pharmacological effects, such as the anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and so on. Herein, the aqueous solubility and oral bioavailability of liquiritin was purposely enhanced via the preparation of the mixed micelles.

METHODS

The liquiritin-loaded micelles (LLM) were fabricated via thin-film dispersion method. The optimal LLM formulation was evaluated through physical properties including particle size (PS), encapsulation efficiency (EE) and drug loading (DL). In vitro accumulate release as well as in vivo pharmacokinetics were also evaluated. Moreover, the hypolipidemic activity of LLM was observed in the hyperlipidemia mice model.

RESULTS

The LLM exhibited a homogenous spherical shape with small mean PS, good stability and high encapsulation efficiency. The accumulate release rates in vitro of the LLM were obviously higher than free liquiritin. The oral bioavailability of the formulation was heightened by 3.98 times in comparison with the free liquiritin. More importantly, LLM increased the hypolipidemic and effect of alleviating lipid metabolism disorder in hepatocytes of liquiritin in hyperlipidemia mice model.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, the improved solubility of liquiritin in water coupled with its enhanced oral bioavailability and concomitant hypolipidemic activity could be attributed to the incorporation of the drug into the mixed micelles.