Fabrication of Highly Deformable Bilosomes for Enhancing the Topical Delivery of Terconazole: In Vitro Characterization, Microbiological Evaluation, and In Vivo Skin Deposition Study

Magnetic targeting of lornoxicam/SPION bilosomes loaded in a thermosensitive in situ hydrogel system for the management of osteoarthritis: Optimization, in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies in rat model via modulation of RANKL/OPG

Osteoarthritis is a bone and joint condition characterized pathologically by articular cartilage degenerative damage and can develop into a devastating and permanently disabling disorder. This investigation aimed to formulate the anti-inflammatory drug lornoxicam (LOR) into bile salt-enriched vesicles loaded in an in situ forming hydrogel as a potential local treatment of osteoarthritis. This was achieved by formulating LOR-loaded bilosomes that are also loaded with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) for intra-muscular (IM) administration to improve joint targeting and localization by applying an external magnet to the joint. A 31.22 full factorial design was employed to develop the bilosomal dispersions and the optimized formula including SPION (LSB) was loaded into a thermosensitive hydrogel. Moreover, in vivo evaluation revealed that the IM administration of LSB combined with the application of an external magnet to the joint reversed carrageen-induced suppression in motor activity and osteoprotegerin by significantly reducing the elevations in mitogen-activated protein kinases, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa beta/osteoprotegerin expressions. In addition, the histopathological evaluation of knee joint tissues showed a remarkable improvement in the injured joint tissues. The results proved that the developed LSB could be a promising IM drug delivery system for osteoarthritis management.

Review on novel targeted enzyme drug delivery systems: enzymosomes

The goal of this review is to present enzymosomes as an innovative means for site-specific drug delivery. Enzymosomes make use of an enzyme's special characteristics, such as its capacity to accelerate the reaction rate and bind to a particular substrate at a regulated rate. Enzymosomes are created when an enzyme forms a covalent linkage with a liposome or lipid vesicle surface. To construct enzymosomes with specialized activities, enzymes are linked using acylation, direct conjugation, physical adsorption, and encapsulation techniques. By reducing the negative side effects of earlier treatment techniques and exhibiting efficient medication release, these cutting-edge drug delivery systems improve long-term sickness treatments. They could be a good substitute for antiplatelet medication, gout treatment, and other traditional medicines. Recently developed supramolecular vesicular delivery systems called enzymosomes have the potential to improve drug targeting, physicochemical characteristics, and ultimately bioavailability in the pharmaceutical industry. Enzymosomes have advantages over narrow-therapeutic index pharmaceuticals as focusing on their site of action enhances both their pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profiles. Additionally, it reduces changes in normal enzymatic activity, which enhances the half-life of an enzyme and accomplishes enzyme activity on specific locations.

Non-pigmented laser hair removal mediated via sepia melanin nanoparticles: in vivo study on albino mice

OBJECTIVES

Melanin is considered the main chromophore for laser hair removal. Due to a lack of laser-absorbing chromophores, removing non-pigmented hair with laser is quite problematic with unsatisfactory outcomes. This problem could be solved by delivering more melanin to the area around the hair follicle and enhancing that area as a target for light absorption. The insolubility of Sepia melanin as an exogenous dye, in most solvents, limits its bioavailability and thus its clinical use.

METHODS

In our study, to overcome the solubility problems and increase the bioavailability of melanin for biomedical and cosmetic applications, natural sepia melanin was loaded in different nano-delivery systems (spanlastics and transfersomes) to be delivered to the hair follicles. The different formulations of melanin were prepared and characterized. In vivo skin deposition and histopathological studies were conducted on albino mice.

RESULTS

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed the spherical shape of the prepared vesicles with an average particle size of 252 and 262 nm and zeta potential of -22.5 and -35 mV for melanin spanlastics and melanin transfersomes, respectively. Histopathological examination of hair follicles and pilosebaceous glands for the irradiated and non-irradiated albino mice skin was studied post the application of the prepared formulations topically and subcutaneously. Qualitative statistical analysis was conducted and melanin transfersomes and melanin spanlastics showed significant damage to pilosebaceous glands and hair follicles with a p-value of 0.031 and 0.009 respectively.

CONCLUSION

Melanin nanovesicles as transfersomes and spanlastics could be considered a promising approach for the removal of non-pigmented hair.

Emerging Trends in Bilosomes as Therapeutic Drug Delivery Systems

In recent years, there has been a notable surge in the utilization of stabilized bile acid liposomes, chemical conjugates, complexes, mixed micelles, and other drug delivery systems derived from bile acids, often referred to as bilosomes. The molecular structure and interactions of these amphiphilic compounds provide a distinctive and captivating subject for investigation. The enhanced stability of new generation bilosomes inside the gastrointestinal system results in the prevention of drug degradation and an improvement in mucosal penetration. These characteristics render bilosomes to be a prospective nanocarrier for pharmaceutical administration, prompting researchers to investigate their potential in other domains. This review paper discusses bilosomes that have emerged as a viable modality in the realm of drug delivery and have significant promise for use across several domains. Moreover, this underscores the need for additional investigation and advancement in order to comprehensively comprehend the prospective uses of bilosomes and their effectiveness in the field of pharmaceutical administration. This review study explores the current scholarly attention on bilosomes as prospective carriers for drug delivery. Therapeutic areas where bilosomes have shown outstanding performance in terms of drug delivery are outlined in the graphical abstract.

Cross-Linked Alginate Dialdehyde/Chitosan Hydrogel Encompassing Curcumin-Loaded Bilosomes for Enhanced Wound Healing Activity

The current study aimed to fabricate curcumin-loaded bilosomal hydrogel for topical wound healing purposes, hence alleviating the poor aqueous solubility and low oral bioavailability of curcumin. Bilosomes were fabricated via the thin film hydration technique using cholesterol, Span® 60, and two different types of bile salts (sodium deoxycholate or sodium cholate). Bilosomes were verified for their particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), entrapment efficiency (EE%), and in vitro drug release besides their morphological features. The optimum formulation was composed of cholesterol/Span® 60 (molar ratio 1:10 w/w) and 5 mg of sodium deoxycholate. This optimum formulation was composed of a PS of 246.25 ± 11.85 nm, PDI of 0.339 ± 0.030, ZP of -36.75 ± 0.14 mv, EE% of 93.32% ± 0.40, and the highest percent of drug released over three days (96.23% ± 0.02). The optimum bilosomal formulation was loaded into alginate dialdehyde/chitosan hydrogel cross-linked with calcium chloride. The loaded hydrogel was tested for its water uptake capacity, in vitro drug release, and in vivo studies on male Albino rats. The results showed that the loaded hydrogel possessed a high-water uptake percent at the four-week time point (729.50% ± 43.13) before it started to disintegrate gradually; in addition, it showed sustained drug release for five days (≈100%). In vivo animal testing and histopathological studies supported the superiority of the curcumin-loaded bilosomal hydrogel in wound healing compared to the curcumin dispersion and plain hydrogel, where there was a complete wound closure attained after the three-week period with a proper healing mechanism. Finally, it was concluded that curcumin-loaded bilosomal hydrogel offered a robust, efficient, and user-friendly dosage form for wound healing.

Solusomes (novel soluplus® enriched nano-vesicular carriers) for improving the oral bioavailability of Candesartan cilexetil

Candesartan cilexetil (CAN) is administered for treating hypertension and heart failure. CAN suffers poor oral bioavailability, owing to limited aqueous solubility, and first-pass metabolism. Solusomes (novel Soluplus® enriched nano-vesicular carriers) combine the merits of Soluplus®, and the traditional liposomes. They were explored to increase CAN solubility, allow a high drug release rate, and improve the oral drug bioavailability. Solusomes were developed via thin film hydration technique utilizing lipid (phosphatidylcholine; PC) and polymeric solubilizer (Soluplus®; Solu). S6 system comprising PC (0.1% w/v), CAN and Soluplus® (at 1:5 ratio; w/w), following a 5 min sonication period, was the optimum one with respect to drug entrapment efficiency (83.5 ± 2.6%), drug loading (11.9 ± 0.3%), particle size and shape (377.2 ± 12.1 nm, spherical), zeta-potential (-19.6 ± 2.1 mV), saturated drug solubility (32.09 ± 0.71 µg/mL), drug released % after 1 h (68 ± 0.9%), and stability. Significantly higher Cmax (969.12 ± 46.3 ng/mL), shorter median Tmax (1h), and improved relative bioavailability (≈ 6.8 folds) in rabbits could evidence the potential of S6 system in enhancing oral CAN bioavailability. S6 solusomes act as dual platform to improve the oral drug bioavailability and maintain effective drug concentration for a prolonged period.

Formulation, optimization, in-vivo biodistribution studies and histopathological safety assessment of duloxetine HCl-loaded ultra-elastic nanovesicles for antidepressant effect after intranasal and transdermal delivery

Duloxetine hydrochloride (DUL) is a BCS class-II antidepressant drug, acting via serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibition. Despite high oral absorption, DUL suffers limited bioavailability due to extensive gastric and first-pass metabolism. To improve DUL's bioavailability; DUL-loaded elastosomes were developed, via full factorial design, utilizing various span®60: cholesterol ratios, edge activator types and amounts. Entrapment efficiency (E.E.%), particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP) and in-vitro released percentages after 0.5 h (Q_0.5h) and 8 h (Q_8h) were evaluated. Optimum elastosomes (DUL-E1) were assessed for morphology, deformability index, drug crystallinity and stability. DUL pharmacokinetics were evaluated in rats following intranasal and transdermal application of DUL-E1 elastosomal gel. DUL-E1 elastosomes [comprising span®60 and cholesterol (1:1) and brij S2 (edge activator; 5 mg)] were optimum with high E.E.% (81.5 ± 3.2%), small PS (432 ± 13.2 nm), ZP (-30.8 ± 3.3 mV), acceptable Q_0.5h (15.6 ± 0.9%), and high Q_8h (79.3 ± 3.8%). Intranasal and transdermal DUL-E1 elastosomes revealed significantly higher C_max (251 ± 18.6 and 248 ± 15.9 ng/mL) at T_max (2 and 4 h) and improved relative bioavailability (≈ 2.8 and 3.1 folds) respectively, in comparison to oral DUL aqueous solution. In-vivo histopathological studies were conducted to ensure the safety of DUL-E1. Elastosomes are promising novel nano-carriers, capable of enhancing the bioavailability of DUL via various routes of administration.

A comprehensive review on recent nanosystems for enhancing antifungal activity of fenticonazole nitrate from different routes of administration

This review aims to comprehensively highlight the recent nanosystems enclosing Fenticonazole nitrate (FTN) and to compare between them regarding preparation techniques, studied factors and responses. Moreover, the optimum formulae were compared in terms of in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo studies in order to detect the best formula. FTN is a potent antifungal imidazole compound that had been used for treatment of many dangerous fungal infections affecting eye, skin or vagina. FTN had been incorporated in various innovative nanosystems in the recent years in order to achieve significant recovery such as olaminosomes, novasomes, cerosomes, terpesomes and trans-novasomes. These nanosystems were formulated by various techniques (ethanol injection or thin film hydration) utilizing different statistical designs (Box-Behnken, central composite, full factorial and D-optimal). Different factors were studied in each nanosystem regarding its composition as surfactant concentrations, surfactant type, amount of oleic acid, cholesterol, oleylamine, ceramide, sodium deoxycholate, terpene concentration and ethanol concentration. Numerous responses were studied such as percent entrapment efficiency (EE%), particle size (PS), poly-dispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), and in vitro drug release. Selection of the optimum formula was based on numerical optimization accomplished by Design-Expert® software taking in consideration the largest EE %, ZP (as absolute value) and in vitro drug release and lowest PS and PDI. In vitro comparisons were done employing different techniques such as Transmission electron microscopy, pH determination, effect of gamma sterilization, elasticity evaluation and docking study. In addition to, ex vivo permeation, in vivo irritancy test, histopathological, antifungal activity and Kinetic study.

'Poly phenolic phytoceutical loaded nano-bilosomes for enhanced caco-2 cell permeability and SARS-CoV 2 antiviral activity': in-vitro and insilico studies

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) predisposed to the emergence of worldwide catastrophe that impels the evolution of safe and effective therapeutic system. Polyphenols as resveratrol (RSV) exhibit a well evidenced antiviral activity. Unfortunately, like most phenolic nutraceuticals, RSV suffers from restrained solubility and massive degradation in GIT and liver which in turn prohibit its clinical use. Herein, PEGylated bilosomes (PBs) contain PEGylated edge activator along with the traditional components as (Span 60, cholesterol and bile salts) were proposed to boost both permeability and bioavailability of RSV. The investigation of the prominent effect of the diverse variables on the characteristics of the vesicles and picking of the optimum formula were conducted via construction of 2³ factorial experiment. The appraisal of the formulae was conducted on the basis of entrapment efficiency percent (EE%), particle size (PS) and zeta potential (ZP). In addition, the spherical shaped optimal formula (F5) exhibited EE% of 86.1 ± 2.9%, PS of 228.9 ± 8.5 nm, and ZP of -39.8 ± 1.3 mV. The sorted optimum formula (F5) exhibited superior dissolution behaviors, and boosted Caco-2 cells cellular uptake by a round 4.7 folds relative to RSV dispersion. In addition, F5 demonstrated a complete in vitro suppression of SARS-CoV-2 at a concentration 0.48 μg/ml with 6.6 times enhancement in antiviral activity relative to RSV dispersion. The accomplished molecular modeling heavily provided proof for the possible interactions of resveratrol with the key residues of the SARS-CoV2 Mpro enzyme. Finally, F5 could be proposed as a promising oral panel of RSV for curation from SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Unlocking the Potential of Bilosomes and Modified Bilosomes: a Comprehensive Journey into Advanced Drug Delivery Trends

Vesicular drug delivery systems have revolutionized the pharmaceutical field, offering a promising path for achieving targeted and sustained drug delivery. The oral, transdermal, and ocular routes of administration offer optimal ease in attaining desired therapeutic outcomes. However, conventional treatment strategies are all plagued with several challenges, such as poor skin permeability, ocular barriers, and gastrointestinal (GIT) degradation leading to vesicular disruption with the release of the encapsulated drug before reaching the targeted site of action. In recent years, bilosomes-stabilized nanovesicles containing bile salts have received considerable attention due to their versatility and adaptability for diverse applications. These bilayered vesicles enhance the solubility of lipophilic drugs and improve formulation stability in the gastrointestinal tract. They exhibit ultra-deformable properties, improving stratum corneum permeability, making them ideal candidates for oral and transdermal drug delivery. In addition, bilosomes find utility in topical drug delivery, making them applicable for ocular administration. Over the past decade, extensive research has highlighted bilosomes' potential as superior vesicular carriers surpassing liposomes and niosomes. Advances in this field have led to the development of modified bilosomes, such as probilosomes and surface-modified bilosomes, further enhancing their capabilities and therapeutic potential. Thus, the present review provides a comprehensive summary of bilosomes, modified bilosomes, surface modifications with their mechanism of action, formulation components, preparation methods, patents, and a wide array of recent pharmaceutical applications in oral, transdermal, and ocular drug delivery. The enhanced properties of bilosomes offer promising prospects for targeted and effective drug delivery, providing potential solutions for addressing various therapeutic challenges.

Implementing Nanovesicles for Boosting the Skin Permeation of Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs

The consumption of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have increased lately around the world, as they are considered essential and popular drugs for effective reduction of pain and inflammation. They have analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory activities; also, it was reported recently that they protect against various critical disorders like heart attacks and cancer. However, oral use of NSAIDs may cause several pulmonary, gastrointestinal, hepatic, cardiovascular, cerebral, and renal complications. Therefore, topical NSAIDs were recommended as a substitute to oral NSAIDs for the treatment of inflammation and pain. Still, the skin permeation of NSAIDs is considered a challenge, as the skin have an effective barrier function. Therefore, this review investigates various advanced vesicular nanocarriers and their applications through the skin, to augment the topical delivery of NSAIDs through stratum corneum over the conventional systems, enhance their effectiveness, and reduce the unwanted side effects. These innovative systems can manage bioavailability, solubility, stability, safety, and efficacy issues present in conventional systems.

Taif Rose Oil Ameliorates UVB-Induced Oxidative Damage and Skin Photoaging in Rats via Modulation of MAPK and MMP Signaling Pathways

Short-wave UVB (ultraviolet B) causes rapid oxidative damage to the skin. Rose water is obtained mainly from the petals of Rosa damascena Mill. (Rosaceae) and used traditionally to hydrate dry skin and reduce signs of aging. This work aimed at evaluating the possible protective potential of the prepared eco-friendly Taif rose oil nanoemulsion (ROSE-NANO) against UVB-induced photoaging in adult male Wistar rats. Taif rose oil (ROSE) was obtained from R. damascene by classical steam distillation and formulated in emulgel (100 mg/g). In addition, the oil was formulated in ROSE-NANO-loaded emulgel (50 and 100 mg/g) to enhance the effect of ROSE. All prepared formulas were tested topically for their potential protective effect in UV-induced skin photoaging. The obtained results demonstrated that application of ROSE-NANO-loaded emulgel resulted in superior antiaging potency over ROSE emulgel based on histological studies as well as biochemical evaluations via amendment in CAT and SOD activities, decreasing the concentration of the inflammatory markers and preventing collagen fragmentation through reduction of MMP-9 content in fibroblasts. Moreover, a significant decrease in mRNA expression of NF-KB, JNK, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPK genes was observed. In conclusion, the current study provides scientific evidence for the traditional use of rose oil in skin aging. Moreover, the NANO formula showed promising efficacy as a skin photoprotector against UV-induced oxidative damage and skin aging.

Brij® integrated bilosomes for improving the transdermal delivery of niflumic acid for effective treatment of osteoarthritis: In vitro characterization, ex vivo permeability assessment, and in vivo study

Bilosomes are innovative vesicular carriers containing bile salt with a non-ionic surfactant. Being highly flexible, bilosomes can squeeze themselves through the skin carrying the drug to the action site and improving its skin penetration. The objective of this research was to encapsulate niflumic acid (NA), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug into Brij® integrated bilosomes (BIBs) for effective treatment of osteoarthritis through transdermal delivery. BIBs were formulated using 100 mg of Span 20 with different amounts of sodium cholate (NaC), sodium taurocholate (NaTC), or sodium glycocholate (NaGC) as bile salt, with the addition of 5 mg of Brij-93 or Brij-35. BIBs were prepared utilizing ethanol injection method with the application of (3¹×2²) complete factorial design using Design-Expert® software. The optimal BIBs formulation determined was (B5) which contains 5 mg of NaTC used as bile salt and 5 mg of Brij-93. B5 exhibited entrapment efficiency% = 95.21 ± 0.00%, particle size = 373.05 ± 0.07 nm, polydispersity index = 0.27 ± 0.01, and zeta potential = -32.00 ± 0.00 mV. It also had a high elasticity with a spherical shape. B5 gel displayed a sustained release profile with a significantly 2.3 folds' higher drug permeation percent across rat skin than that permeated from NA gel. Moreover, in vivo anti-osteoarthritic and histopathological studies assured the efficacy and safety of B5 gel and its superiority over NA gel. Generally, the outcomes confirmed the great efficacy of NA loaded BIBs for the topical treatment of osteoarthritis.

Therapeutic potential of cationic bilosomes in the treatment of carrageenan-induced rat arthritis via fluticasone propionate gel

Arthritis is a debilitating disease that affects the patient's mobility and quality of life. This study focused on the development and optimization of a cationic nanosized bilosomal formula for the efficient transdermal treatment of arthritis. An optimum Fluticasone Propionate-loaded bilosomes (OFP) was developed using the Draper-Lin small composite design based on the optimization of 4 factors and evaluation of entrapment efficiency (Y1), vesicle size (Y2), skin flux (Y3), and skin accumulation (Y4). The OFP was characterized against the drug suspension, loaded into a Carbopol gel, and a histopathological assessment was conducted on a carrageenan-induced rat joint arthritis in comparison with cultivate® cream and traditional gel. Interluekin-1β and TNF-α levels were also measured. The optimal formula was formulated using 2.99% phospholipon90G, 0.04% sodium deoxycholate, and 0.29% stearylamine, and showed 84.72%, 268.13 nm, 5.89 µg/cm²/h, and 16.21 µg/cm² /24 h for Y1, Y2, Y3, and Y4, respectively. The thermal analysis of OFP demonstrated a single broad endothermic peak for bilosomes with no detectable peak for the amorphous drug. TEM images revealed the spherical structures of the nanosized OFP, while CLSM demonstrated enhanced permeation efficiency over the drug suspension. The in-vivo study further proved the promising efficacy of the optimum OFP, where a complete recovery of the normal histological structure of a rat joint and normal levels of the inflammatory markers were observed within 20 days following once daily application of the optimum bilosomal gel. Therefore, OFP represents a competent nanocarrier for efficient transdermal management of joint arthritis.

Novel Siprulina platensis Bilosomes for Combating UVB Induced Skin Damage

The recent interest in bioactive compounds from natural sources has led to the evolution of the skin care industry. Efforts to develop biologically active ingredients from natural sources have resulted in the emergence of enhanced skin care products. Spirulina (SPR), a nutritionally enriched cyanobacteria-type microalga, is rich in nutrients and phytochemicals. SPR possesses antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory activities. Spirulina-loaded bilosomes (SPR-BS), a novel antiaging drug delivery system, were designed for the first time by incorporation in a lecithin−bile salt-integrated system for bypassing skin delivery obstacles. The optimized BS had good entrapment efficiency, small particle size, optimal zeta potential, and sustained drug release pattern. Blank and SPR-loaded BS formulations were safe, with a primary irritancy index of <2 based on the Draize test. In vivo tests were conducted, and photoprotective antiaging effects were evaluated visually and biochemically by analyzing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-wrinkling markers following ultraviolet (UV) B irradiation. Results of biochemical marker analysis and histopathological examination confirmed the superior antiaging effect of SPR-BS compared with SPR. Thus, SPR-loaded BS is a promising nanoplatform for SPR delivery, can be used for treating UV-induced skin damage, and offers maximum therapeutic outcomes.

Boosting the anti MERS-CoV activity and oral bioavailability of resveratrol via PEG-stabilized emulsomal nano-carrier: Factorial design, in-vitro and in-vivo assessments

Resveratrol (RSV) is a phytoceutical polyphenolic compound exhibiting a well evidenced wide range of therapeutic activities. Unfortunately, its diminished aqueous solubility and extensive metabolism in gastro intestinal tract (GIT) and liver prohibit its biological activity and systemic availability. Herein the conducted study PEG stabilized emulsomes (PEMLs) were customized to enclose RSV aiming to boost its biological availability and antiviral activity. PEGylating the vesicles not only grant the promoted steric stability of the system but also being beneficial in exaggerating the intestinal permeability and extending the period of circulation of the drug, hence its targeted clinical use. The Investigation of the influence of predetermined variables on the physical characterization of formulae (entrapment efficiency EE%, particle size PS and zeta potential ZP) was implemented utilizing Design Expert® software. (F4) with desirability value (0.772), picked to be the optimal formula, which is fabricated utilizing 35 mg compritol as the lipidic core and 60 mg 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[amino(polyethylene glycol)-2000] (DSPE-Mpeg-2000). The dominance of the F4 relative to RSV dispersion was affirmed by the data acquired from ex-vivo and pharmacokinetic studies. In addition, F4 exhibited significant lower EC₅₀ value (0.0127 µg/mL) relative to that of RSV dispersion(0.338 µg/mL) by around 26 times denoting the capability of the formulation to boost the antiviral activity. To a great extent, F4 was able to significantly suppress the inflammatory response and oxidative stress resulted from MERS-CoV infection on comparison with RSV dispersion. Finally, the potentiality of PEMLs as nano-panel with boosted both antiviral and oral bioavailability for RSV could be deduced based on the outcomes mentioned herein.

Advanced Vesicular Systems for Antifungal Drug Delivery

Fungal infections are considered one of the most serious conditions as their occurrence has increased lately. Fungi like Candida, Fusarium, and Aspergillus species mostly affect immunocompromised patients as they are considered opportunistic pathogens. These infections can be superficial, cutaneous, subcutaneous, or systemic fungal infections that require specific treatment. There is a wide variety of antifungal drugs that can be used to cure fungal infections; however, most of them have many systemic side effects due to their physicochemical characteristics and high toxicity profile. Hence, the current review focuses on various advanced vesicular carriers with high biocompatibility that can encapsulate the antifungal drugs owing to increase their efficacy and limit the undesirable side effects. These advanced systems can manage stability, solubility, bioavailability, safety, and effectiveness issues present in conventional systems.

Bile acid-based advanced drug delivery systems, bilosomes and micelles as novel carriers for therapeutics

Diabetes mellitus affects almost half a billion patients worldwide and results from either destruction of β-cells responsible for insulin secretion or increased tissue resistance to insulin stimulation and the reduction of glycemic control. Novel drug delivery systems can improve treatment efficacy in diabetic patients. The low aqueous solubility of most oral antidiabetic drugs decreases drug bioavailability; therefore, there is a demand for the use of novel methods to overcome this issue. The application of bile acids mixed micelles and bilosomes can provide an enhancement in drug efficacy. Bile acids are amphiphilic steroidal molecules that contain a saturated tetracyclic hydrocarbon cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene ring, and consist of three 6-membered rings and a 5-membered ring, a short aliphatic side chain, and a tough steroid nucleus. This review offers a comprehensive and informative data focusing on the great potential of bile acid, their salts, and their derivatives for the development of new antidiabetic drug delivery system.

Inclusion of a Phytomedicinal Flavonoid in Biocompatible Surface-Modified Chylomicron Mimic Nanovesicles with Improved Oral Bioavailability and Virucidal Activity: Molecular Modeling and Pharmacodynamic Studies

Morin hydrate (MH) is a widely-used Asian phytomedicinal flavonoid with a wide range of reported therapeutic activities. However, MH has limited oral bioavailability due to its low aqueous solubility and intestinal permeability, which in turn hinders its potential antiviral activity. The study reported herein was designed to encapsulate MH in polyethyleneglycolated (PEGylated) chylomicrons (PCMs) and to boost its antiviral activity and biological availability for oral administration using a rat experimental model. The PEGylated edge activator combined with the conventional components of chylomicrons (CMs) amplify the transport of the drug across the intestine and its circulation period, hence its therapeutic impact. The implementation of variables in the in vitro characterization of the vesicles was investigated. Using Design Expert^® software, a 2⁴ factorial design was conducted, and the resulting PCM formulations were fabricated utilizing a thin-film hydration technique. The efficacy of the formulations was assessed according to their zeta potential (ZP), entrapment efficiency percentage (EE%), amount of drug released after 8 h (Q8h), and particle size (PS) data. Formulation F9, which was deemed to be the optimal formula, used compritol as the lipidic core together in defined amounts with phosphatidylcholine (PC) and Brij52. Computer-aided studies revealed that MH alone in a suspension had both diminished intestinal permeability and absorption, but was enhanced when loaded in PCMs. This was affirmed by the superiority of formulation F9 results in ex vivo permeation and pharmacokinetic studies. Furthermore, formulation F9 had a superior safety profile and antiviral activity over a pure MH suspension. Molecular-docking studies revealed the capability of MH to inhibit MERS-CoV 3CL^pro, the enzyme shown to exhibit a crucial role in viral replication. Additionally, F9 suppressed both MERS-CoV-induced histopathological alteration in lung tissue and resulting oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers. Collectively, the results reported herein affirmed the potential of PCMs as nanocarriers for the effective oral administration of MH as an antiviral.

Fenticonazole nitrate loaded trans-novasomes for effective management of tinea corporis: design characterization, in silico study, and exploratory clinical appraisal

The current investigation aimed for loading fenticonazole nitrate (FTN), an antifungal agent with low aqueous solubility, into trans-novasomes (TNs) for management of tinea corporis topically. TNs contain Brij^® as an edge activator besides the components of novasomes (cholesterol, Span 60, and oleic acid) owing to augment the topical delivery of FTN. TNs were fabricated applying ethanol injection method based on D-optimal experiment. TNs were evaluated with regard to entrapment efficiency percent (EE%), particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential (ZP). Further explorations were conducted on the optimum formulation (F7). F7 showed spherical appearance with EE%, PS, PDI, and ZP of 100.00 ± 1.10%, 358.60 ± 10.76 nm, 0.51 ± 0.004, and −30.00 ± 0.80 mV, respectively. The in silico study revealed the ability of the FTN–cholesterol complex to maintain favorable interactions throughout the molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) study. Moreover, Trichophyton mentagrophytes growth was inhibited effectively by F7 than by FTN suspension applying 2,3-bis(2-methyloxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide (XTT) reduction assay. Furthermore, a clinical appraisal on patients with tinea corporis fungal lesions confirmed the superiority of F7 compared to Miconaz^® cream in the magnitude of clinical cure of tinea corporis. Thereby, TNs could be considered as promising vesicles for enhancing the antifungal potential of FTN for the topical management of tinea corporis.

A Brain-Targeted Approach to Ameliorate Memory Disorders in a Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model via Intranasal Luteolin-Loaded Nanobilosomes

Impaired memory and cognitive function are the main features of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Unfortunately, currently available treatments cannot cure or delay AD progression. Moreover, the blood–brain barrier hampers effective delivery of treatment to the brain. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the impact of intranasally delivered luteolin on AD using bile-salt-based nano-vesicles (bilosomes). Different bilosomes were prepared using 23-factorial design. The variables were defined by the concentration of surfactant, the molar ratio of cholesterol:phospholipid, and the concentration of bile salt. Results demonstrated optimized luteolin-loaded bilosomes with particle size (153.2 ± 0.98 nm), zeta potential (−42.8 ± 0.24 mV), entrapment efficiency% (70.4 ± 0.77%), and % drug released after 8 h (80.0 ± 1.10%). In vivo experiments were conducted on an AD mouse model via intracerebroventricular injection of 3 mg/kg streptozotocin. We conducted behavioral, biochemical marker, histological, and immune histochemistry assays after administering a luteolin suspension or luteolin bilosomes (50 mg/kg) intranasally for 21 consecutive days. Luteolin bilosomes improved short-term and long-term spatial memory. They also exhibited antioxidant properties and reduced levels of proinflammatory mediators. They also suppressed both amyloid β aggregation and hyperphosphorylated Tau protein levels in the hippocampus. In conclusion, luteolin bilosomes are an effective, safe, and non-invasive approach with superior cognitive function capabilities compared to luteolin suspension.

Formulation and Evaluation of Topical Nano-Lipid-Based Delivery of Butenafine: In Vitro Characterization and Antifungal Activity

The present research work was designed to prepare butenafine (BN)-loaded bilosomes (BSs) by the thin-film hydration method. BN is a sparingly water-soluble drug having low permeability and bioavailability. BSs are lipid-based nanovesicles used to entrap water-insoluble drugs for enhanced permeation across the skin. BSs were prepared by the thin-film hydration method and optimized by the Box-Behnken design (BBD) using lipid (A), span 60 (B), and sodium deoxycholate (C) as independent variables. The selected formulation (BN-BSo) was converted into the gel using Carbopol 940 as a gelling agent. The prepared optimized gel (BN-BS-og) was further evaluated for the gel characterization, drug release, drug permeation, irritation, and anti-fungal study. The optimized bilosomes (BN-BSo) showed a mean vesicle size of 215 ± 6.5 nm and an entrapment efficiency of 89.2 ± 1.5%. The DSC study showed that BN was completely encapsulated in the BS lipid matrix. BN-BSog showed good viscosity, consistency, spreadability, and pH. A significantly (p < 0.05) high release (81.09 ± 4.01%) was achieved from BN-BSo compared to BN-BSog (65.85 ± 4.87%) and pure BN (17.54 ± 1.37 %). The permeation study results revealed that BN-BSo, BN-BSog, and pure BN exhibited 56.2 ± 2.7%, 39.2 ± 2.9%, and 16.6 ± 2.3%. The enhancement ratio of permeation flux was found to be 1.4-fold and 3.4-fold for the BN-BS-og and pure BN dispersion. The HET-CAM study showed that BN-BSog was found to be nonirritant as the score was found within the limit. The antifungal study revealed a significant (p < 0.05) enhanced antifungal activity against C. albicans and A. niger. The findings of the study revealed that BS is an important drug delivery system for transdermal delivery.

Design and optimization of cranberry extract loaded bile salt augmented liposomes for targeting of MCP-1/STAT3/VEGF signaling pathway in DMN-intoxicated liver in rats

Cranberry extract (CBE) is a major source of the antioxidant polyphenolics but suffers from limited bioavailability. The goal of this research was to encapsulate the nutraceutical (CBE), into bile salt augmented liposomes (BSALs) as a promising oral delivery system to potentiate its hepatoprotective impact against dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) induced liver injury in rats. The inclusion of bile salt in the liposomal structure can enhance their stability within the gastrointestinal tract and promote CBE permeability. CBE loaded BSALs formulations were fabricated utilizing a (2³) factorial design to explore the impact of phospholipid type (X₁), phospholipid amount (X₂), and sodium glycocholate (SGC) amount (X₃) on BSALs properties, namely; entrapment efficiency percent, (EE%); vesicle size, (VS); polydispersity index; (PDI); zeta potential, (ZP); and release efficiency percent, (RE%). The optimum formulation (F1) exhibited spherical vesicles with EE% of 71.27 ± 0.32%, VS; 148.60 ± 6.46 nm, PDI; 0.38 ± 0.02, ZP; −18.27 ± 0.67 mV and RE%; 61.96 ± 1.07%. Compared to CBE solution, F1 had attenuated DMN-induced hepatic injury, as evidenced by the significant decrease in serum level of ALT, AST, ALP, MDA, and elevation of GSH level, as well as SOD and GPX activities. Furthermore, F1 exhibited an anti-inflammatory character by suppressing TNF-α, MCP-1, and IL-6, as well as downregulation of VEGF-C, STAT-3, and IFN-γ mRNA levels. This study verified that when CBE was integrated into BSALs, F1, its hepatoprotective effect was significantly potentiated to protect the liver against DMN-induced damage. Therefore, F1 could be deliberated as an antioxidant, antiproliferative, and antifibrotic therapy to slow down the progression of hepatic damage.

Abu Ali O, Fayad E, Ahmed Gaafar AG, Zakaria MY. Design and Synthesis of Newly Synthesized Acrylamide Derivatives as Potential Chemotherapeutic Agents against MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cell Line Lodged on PEGylated Bilosomal Nano-Vesicles for Improving Cytotoxic Activity

Cancer is a multifaceted disease. With the development of multi drug resistance, the need for the arousal of novel targets in order to avoid these drawbacks increased. A new series of acrylamide derivatives was synthesized from starting material 4-(furan-2-ylmethylene)-2-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)oxazol-5(4H)–one (1), and they are evaluated for their inhibitory activity against β-tubulin polymerization. The target molecules 2–5 d were screened for their cytotoxic activity against breast cancer MCF-7 cell line. The results of cytotoxicity screening revealed that compounds 4e and 5d showed good cytotoxic profile against MCF-7 cells. Compounds 4e produced significant reduction in cellular tubulin with excellent β-tubulin polymerization inhibition activity. In addition, compound 4e exhibited cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 cells by cell cycle arrest at pre-G1 and G2/M phases, as shown by DNA flow cytometry assay. Aiming to enhance the limited aqueous solubility and, hence, poor oral bioavailability of the prepared lead acrylamide molecule, 4e-charged PEGylated bilosomes were successfully fabricated via thin film hydration techniques as an attempt to improve these pitfalls. 2³ full factorial designs were manipulated to examine the influence of formulation variables: types of bile salt including either sodium deoxy cholate (SDC) or sodium tauro cholate (STC), amount of bile salt (15 mg or 30 mg) and amount of DSPE–mPEG-2000 amount (25 mg or 50 mg) on the characteristics of the nanosystem. The F7 formula of entrapment efficiency (E.E% = 100 ± 5.6%), particle size (PS = 280.3 ± 15.4 nm) and zeta potential (ZP = −22.5 ± 3.4 mv) was picked as an optimum formula with a desirability value of 0.868. Moreover, prominent enhancement was observed at the compound’s cytotoxic activity (IC₅₀ = 0.75 ± 0.03 µM) instead of (IC₅₀ = 2.11 ± 0.19 µM) for the unformulated 4e after being included in the nano-PEGylated bilosomal system.

Implementing Spanlastics for Improving the Ocular Delivery of Clotrimazole: In vitro Characterization, Ex vivo Permeability, Microbiological Assessment and In vivo Safety Study

Purpose

The aim of this study was to encapsulate clotrimazole (CLT), an antifungal drug with poor water solubility characteristics, into spanlastics (SPs) to provide a controlled ocular delivery of the drug.

Methods

Span 60 was used in the formulation of SPs with Tween 80, Pluronic F127, or Kolliphor RH40 as an edge activator (EA). The presence of EA offers more elasticity to the membrane of the vesicles which is expected to increase the corneal permeation of CLT. SPs were prepared using ethanol injection method applying 3² complete factorial design to study the effect of formulation variables (ratio of Span 60: EA (w/w) and type of EA) on SPs characteristics (encapsulation efficiency percent (EE%), average vesicle size (VS), polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential (ZP)). Design-Expert software was used to determine the optimum formulation for further investigations.

Results

The optimum formulation determined was S1, which contains 20 mg of Tween 80 used as an EA and 80 mg of Span 60. S1 exhibited EE% = 66.54 ± 7.57%, VS = 206.20 ± 4.95 nm, PDI = 0.39 ± 0.00 and ZP = −29.60 ± 0.99 mV. S1 showed highly elastic sphere-shaped vesicles. Furthermore, S1 displayed a sustained release profile and a higher ex vivo permeation across rabbit cornea relative to CLT suspension. Also, S1 revealed superior inhibition of Candida albicans development compared to CLT suspension applying 2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide (XTT) reduction technique. Moreover, in vivo histopathological examination assured the safety of S1 after ophthalmic application in mature male albino rabbits.

Conclusion

Overall, the outcomes revealed the marked efficacy of SPs for ocular delivery of CLT.

Statistical optimization of bile salt deployed nanovesicles as a potential platform for oral delivery of piperine: accentuated antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity in MERS-CoV challenged mice

The objective of this paper is to confine piperine, a poor oral bioavailable herbal drug into bile salt based nano vesicles for improving its aqueous solubility, hence, its therapeutic activity. Piperine-loaded bilosomes were fabricated adopting thin film hydration technique according to 3².2¹ full factorial design to investigate the impact of different formulation variables on the characters of bilosomes: entrapment efficiency (EE%), particle size, and % of drug released post 8 h (Q8hr). The selected optimum formula was F2 (enclosing 1% bile salt, brij72 as a surfactant, and ratio of surfactant:cholesterol was 9:1) with desirability value 0.801, exhibiting high EE% (97.2 ± 0.8%) nanosized spherical vesicles (220.2 ± 20.5 nm) and Q8hr (88.2%±5.6). The superiority of the optimized formula (F2) over the drug suspension was revealed via ex vivo permeation study, also pharmacokinetic study denoted to the boosted oral bioavailability of piperine-loaded bilosome compared to piperine suspension. Moreover, antiviral activity and safety margin of F2 was significantly higher than that of the drug suspension. The ability of piperine to interact with the key amino acids in the receptor binding domain 4L3N as indicated by its docking configuration, rationalized its observed activity. Furthermore, F2 significantly reduce oxidant markers, inflammatory cytokines in MERS-CoV-infected mice. Hence, bilosomes can be considered as a carrier of choice for piperine with potential antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities.