Resveratrol solid lipid nanoparticles to trigger credible inhibition of doxorubicin cardiotoxicity

Research progress on the role and mechanism of Sirtuin family in doxorubicin cardiotoxicity

BACKGROUND

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely utilized anthracycline chemotherapy drug in cancer treatment, yet its efficacy is hindered by both short-term and long-term cardiotoxicity. Although oxidative stress, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction are established factors in DOX-induced cardiotoxicity, the precise molecular pathways remain elusive. Further exploration of the pathogenesis and identification of novel molecular targets are imperative. Recent studies have implicated the Sirtuins family in various physiological and pathological processes, suggesting their potential in ameliorating DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Moreover, research on Sirtuins has discovered small-molecule compounds or medicinal plants with regulatory effects, representing a notable advancement in preventing and treating DOX-induced cardiac injury.

PURPOSE

In this review, we delve into the pathogenesis of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity and explore the therapeutic effects of Sirtuins in mitigating this condition, along with the associated molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, we delineate the roles and mechanisms of small-molecule regulators of Sirtuins in the prevention and treatment of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.

STUDY-DESIGN/METHODS

Data for this review were sourced from various scientific databases (such as Web of Science, PubMed and Science Direct) up to March 2024. Search terms included "Sirtuins," "DOX-induced cardiotoxicity," "DOX," "Sirtuins regulators," "histone deacetylation," among others, as well as several combinations thereof.

RESULTS

Members of the Sirtuins family regulate both the onset and progression of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity through anti-inflammatory, antioxidative stress and anti-apoptotic mechanisms, as well as by maintaining mitochondrial stability. Moreover, natural plant-derived active compounds such as Resveratrol (RES), curcumin, berberine, along with synthetic small-molecule compounds like EX527, modulate the expression and activity of Sirtuins.

CONCLUSION

The therapeutic role of the Sirtuins family in mitigating DOX-induced cardiotoxicity represents a potential molecular target. However, further research is urgently needed to elucidate the relevant molecular mechanisms and to assess the safety and biological activity of Sirtuins regulators. This review offers an in-depth understanding of the therapeutic role of the Sirtuins family in mitigating DOX-induced cardiotoxicity, providing a preliminary basis for the clinical application of Sirtuins regulators in this condition.

Nanomedicine And Nanotheranostics: Special Focus on Imaging of Anticancer Drugs Induced Cardiac Toxicity

Cardiotoxicity, the often-overlooked second leading cause of death in cancer patients, has been associated with certain anticancer drugs. These drugs can induce cardiac damage through various pathways, and their adverse effects on the heart are not fully understood. Cardiotoxicity is a major issue in cancer treatment, particularly with chemotherapeutics, because it can cause cardiac dysfunction such as hypotension, heart failure, and even death. Doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, and trastuzumab, all of which are very potent anticancer drugs, are known to cause cardiotoxicity. When it comes to lowering cardiotoxicity and alleviating the harmful effects of chemotherapy medications, nanomedicine has the potential to transport therapeutic molecules. Nanotheranostics offers novel options for identifying and treating cardiotoxicity resulting from a wide range of substances, including anticancer medications. Additionally, theranostics platforms such as micellar systems, carbon-based nanomedicine, solid lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and liposomes can transport chemotherapeutic medications while minimising their cardiotoxicity. The present level of understanding of the molecular and cellular processes that lead to cardiotoxicity in reaction to both traditional chemotherapy and targeted drug delivery systems is summarised in this article. This review delves into nanomedicine and nanotheranostics, with an emphasis on reducing anticancer medication-induced cardiac toxicity. Nanotheranostics provide potential solutions for early diagnosis and tailored therapy of heart injury by combining diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities into nanomedicine.

Resveratrol-loaded sulfated Hericium erinaceus β-glucan-chitosan nanoparticles: Preparation, characterization and synergistic anti-inflammatory effects

Resveratrol (RES) is a natural polyphenol with excellent biological activity. But the poor stability and bioavailability of RES severely limit its application. Thus, the resveratrol-loaded sulfated Hericium erinaceus β-glucan-chitosan nanoparticles (DS-CS-RES NPs) were prepared using electrostatic self-assembly to solve these problems in this study. The structure of DS-CS-RES NPs was spherical or sub spherical shape with small average particle size (191.07 nm), which was characterized by FT-IR, FS, XRD and TEM. DS-CS-RES NPs exhibited good stability and RES had a sustainable release from the nanoparticles in gastrointestinal digestion. Meanwhile, DS-CS-RES NPs could improve the inflammatory injury of LPS stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages by inhibiting the production of NO, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. Furthermore, DS-CS-RES NPs had strong anti-inflammatory activity by regulating protein levels of NF-κB p65, STAT1 and TLR4 through NF-κB and JAK-STAT1 signaling pathway in vitro, and sulfated H. erinaceus β-glucan-chitosan nanoparticle (DS-CS NPs) and RES had synergistic anti-inflammatory effect. Overall, DS-CS NPs can serve as a potential green and safe functional carrier for encapsulating resveratrol, which can improve its anti-inflammatory activity. This work may be conducive to the development of functional carrier for encapsulating RES and applications of hydrophobic active molecules in functional foods or medicines.

Enhancing the Bioavailability of Resveratrol: Combine It, Derivatize It, or Encapsulate It?

Overcoming the limited bioavailability and extensive metabolism of effective in vitro drugs remains a challenge that limits the translation of promising drugs into clinical trials. Resveratrol, despite its well-reported therapeutic benefits, is not metabolically stable and thus has not been utilized as an effective clinical drug. This is because it needs to be consumed in large amounts to overcome the burdens of bioavailability and conversion into less effective metabolites. Herein, we summarize the more relevant approaches to modify resveratrol, aiming to increase its biological and therapeutic efficacy. We discuss combination therapies, derivatization, and the use of resveratrol nanoparticles. Interestingly, the combination of resveratrol with established chemotherapeutic drugs has shown promising therapeutic effects on colon cancer (with oxaliplatin), liver cancer (with cisplatin, 5-FU), and gastric cancer (with doxorubicin). On the other hand, derivatizing resveratrol, including hydroxylation, amination, amidation, imidation, methoxylation, prenylation, halogenation, glycosylation, and oligomerization, differentially modifies its bioavailability and could be used for preferential therapeutic outcomes. Moreover, the encapsulation of resveratrol allows its trapping within different forms of shells for targeted therapy. Depending on the nanoparticle used, it can enhance its solubility and absorption, increasing its bioavailability and efficacy. These include polymers, metals, solid lipids, and other nanoparticles that have shown promising preclinical results, adding more "hype" to the research on resveratrol. This review provides a platform to compare the different approaches to allow directed research into better treatment options with resveratrol.

Approaches for reducing chemo/radiation-induced cardiotoxicity by nanoparticles

Nanoparticles are fascinating and encouraging carriers for cancer treatment due to their extraordinary properties and potential applications in targeted drug delivery, treatment, and diagnosis. Experimental studies including in vitro and in vivo examinations show that nanoparticles can cause a revolution in different aspects of cancer therapy. Normal tissue toxicity and early and late consequences are the major limitations of cancer therapy by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, the delivery of drugs into tumors or reducing the accumulation of drugs in normal tissues can permit a more satisfactory response of malignancies to therapy with more inferior side effects. Cardiac toxicity is one of the major problems for chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Therefore, several experimental studies have been performed to minimize the degenerative impacts of cancer treatment on the heart and also enhance the influences of radiotherapy and chemotherapy agents in cancers. This review article emphasizes the benefits of nanoparticle-based drug delivery techniques, including minimizing the exposure of the heart to anticancer drugs, enhancing the accumulation of drugs in cancers, and expanding the effectiveness of radiotherapy. The article also discusses the challenges and problems accompanied with nanoparticle-based drug delivery techniques such as toxicity, which need to be addressed through further research. Moreover, the article emphasizes the importance of developing safe and effective nanoparticle-based therapies that can be translated into clinical practice.

Current applications of solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers as vehicles in oral delivery systems for antioxidant nutraceuticals: A review

Antioxidant nutraceuticals can be found in several dietary sources and have been utilized for various medical benefits including health promotion, disease prevention, and support for treatment of acute and/or chronic diseases. Nonetheless, there are some limitations in delivering antioxidants via oral administration such as low solubility and permeability, pH and enzyme degradation, and instability of the compounds along the gastrointestinal tract leading to low bioavailability. In order to tackle these challenges, the utilization of lipid nanoparticles has numerous advantages to the escalating delivery system of antioxidants in nutraceuticals across the gastrointestinal tract barrier. Nowadays, several types of lipid nanoparticles can be used in antioxidant nutraceutical delivery systems through the oral route, namely solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers. This review article aims to provide notable information on the importance and applications of lipid nanoparticles in antioxidant delivery systems from nutraceuticals by an oral route. The mechanism in enhancing antioxidant compound transport across the gastrointestinal tract can occur by elevating loading capacity, improving chemical and physical stability, and increasing its bioavailability. To date, lipid nanoparticle vehicles have been developed to improve the delivery of antioxidant compounds to enhance bioavailability via oral routes. Lipid nanoparticles have remarkable benefits in delivering antioxidant nutraceuticals via oral administration. Hence, scale-up and commercialization of antioxidant nutraceutical-loaded lipid nanoparticles have been a potential technology in recent years. Subsequently, several vegetable and natural oils with antioxidant activity can also be utilized for nanoparticle formulation lipid components to increase nutraceuticals' antioxidant properties and bioavailability.

Preparation and characterization of solid lipid nanoparticles encapsulated noscapine and evaluation of its protective effects against imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by thickening the epidermis with erythema, scaling, and proliferation. Noscapine (NOS) has several anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-fibrotic effects, but its low solubility and large size results in its lower efficacy in the clinic. In this regard, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) encapsulated NOS (SLN-NOS) were fabricated using the well-known response surface method based on the central composite design and modified high-shear homogenization and ultrasound method. As a result, Precirol® was selected as the best lipid base for the SLN formulation based on Hildebrand-Hansen solubility parameters, in which SLN-NOS 1 % had the best zeta potential (-35.74 ± 2.59 mV), average particle size (245.66 ± 17 nm), polydispersity index (PDI, 0.226 ± 0.09), high entrapment efficiency (89.77 %), and ICH-based stability results. After 72 h, the SLN-NOS 1 % released 83.23 % and 58.49 % of the NOS at pH 5.8 and 7.4, respectively. Moreover, Franz diffusion cell's results indicated that the skin levels of NOS for SLN and cream formulations were 46.88 % and 13.5 % of the total amount, respectively. Our pharmacological assessments revealed that treatment with SLN-NOS 1 % significantly attenuated clinical parameters, namely ear thickness, length, and psoriasis area and severity index, compared to the IMQ group. Interestingly, SLN-NOS 1 % reduced the levels of interleukin (IL)-17, tumor necrosis factor-α, and transforming growth factor-β, while elevating IL-10, compared to the IMQ group. Histology studies also showed that topical application of SLN-NOS 1 % significantly decreased parakeratosis, hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, and inflammation compared to the IMQ group. Taken together, SLN-NOS 1 % showed a high potential to attenuate skin inflammation.

Nanobiotechnology-based strategies in alleviation of chemotherapy-mediated cardiotoxicity

The cardiovascular diseases have been among the most common malignancies and the first leading cause of death, even higher than cancer. The cardiovascular diseases can be developed as a result of cardiac dysfunction and damages to heart tissue. Exposure to toxic agents and chemicals that induce cardiac dysfunction has been of interest in recent years. The chemotherapy drugs are commonly used for cancer therapy and in these patients, cardiovascular diseases have been widely observed that is due to negative impact of chemotherapy drugs on the heart. These drugs increase oxidative damage and inflammation, and mediate apoptosis and cardiac dysfunction. Hence, nanotechnological approaches have been emerged as new strategies in attenuation of chemotherapy-mediated cardiotoxicity. The first advantage of nanoparticles can be explored in targeted and selective delivery of drugs to reduce their accumulation in heart tissue. Nanostructures can deliver bioactive and therapeutic compounds in reducing cardiotoxicity and alleviation toxic impacts of chemotherapy drugs. The functionalization of nanostructures increases their selectivity against tumor cells and reduces accumulation of drugs in heart tissue. The bioplatforms such as chitosan and alginate nanostructures can also deliver chemotherapy drugs and reduce their cardiotoxicity. The function of nanostructures is versatile in reduction of cardiotoxicity by chemotherapy drugs and new kind of platforms is hydrogels that can mediate sustained release of drug to reduce its toxic impacts on heart tissue. The various kinds of nanoplatforms have been developed for alleviation of cardiotoxicity and their future clinical application depends on their biocompatibility. High concentration level of chitosan nanoparticles can stimulate cardiotoxicity. Therefore, if nanotechnology is going to be deployed for drug delivery and reducing cardiotoxicity, the first pre-requirement is to lack toxicity on normal cells and have high biocompatibility.

Recent progress in nanotechnology-based drug carriers for resveratrol delivery

Resveratrol is a polyphenol with diverse pharmacological activities, but its clinical efficacy is limited due to low solubility/permeability, light-induced isomerization, auto-oxidation, and rapid metabolism. Nanodelivery systems, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, lipid nanocarriers, micelles, nanocrystals, inorganic nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, protein-based nanoparticles, exosomes, macrophages, and red blood cells (RBCs) have shown great potential for improving the solubility, biocompatibility, and therapeutic efficacy of resveratrol. This review comprehensively summarizes the recent advances in resveratrol nanoencapsulation and describes potential strategies to improve the pharmacokinetics of existing nanoformulations, enhance targeting, reduce toxicity, and increase drug release and encapsulation efficiency. The article also suggests that in order to avoid potential safety issues, resveratrol nanoformulations must be tested in vivo in a wide range of diseases.

Doxorubicin-mediated cardiac dysfunction: Revisiting molecular interactions, pharmacological compounds and (nano)theranostic platforms

Although chemotherapy drugs are extensively utilized in cancer therapy, their administration for treatment of patients has faced problems that regardless of chemoresistance, increasing evidence has shown concentration-related toxicity of drugs. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a drug used in treatment of solid and hematological tumors, and its function is based on topoisomerase suppression to impair cancer progression. However, DOX can also affect the other organs of body and after chemotherapy, life quality of cancer patients decreases due to the side effects. Heart is one of the vital organs of body that is significantly affected by DOX during cancer chemotherapy, and this can lead to cardiac dysfunction and predispose to development of cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis, among others. The exposure to DOX can stimulate apoptosis and sometimes, pro-survival autophagy stimulation can ameliorate this condition. Moreover, DOX-mediated ferroptosis impairs proper function of heart and by increasing oxidative stress and inflammation, DOX causes cardiac dysfunction. The function of DOX in mediating cardiac toxicity is mediated by several pathways that some of them demonstrate protective function including Nrf2. Therefore, if expression level of such protective mechanisms increases, they can alleviate DOX-mediated cardiac toxicity. For this purpose, pharmacological compounds and therapeutic drugs in preventing DOX-mediated cardiotoxicity have been utilized and they can reduce side effects of DOX to prevent development of cardiovascular diseases in patients underwent chemotherapy. Furthermore, (nano)platforms are used comprehensively in treatment of cardiovascular diseases and using them for DOX delivery can reduce side effects by decreasing concentration of drug. Moreover, when DOX is loaded on nanoparticles, it is delivered into cells in a targeted way and its accumulation in healthy organs is prevented to diminish its adverse impacts. Hence, current paper provides a comprehensive discussion of DOX-mediated toxicity and subsequent alleviation by drugs and nanotherapeutics in treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Plant-derived nanomaterials (PDNM): a review on pharmacological potentials against pathogenic microbes, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and some metabolic diseases

Plant-derived nanomaterials (PDNM) have gained significant attention recently due to their potential pharmacological applications against pathogenic microbes, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and certain metabolic diseases. This review introduces the concept of PDNMs and their unique properties, including their small size, high surface area, and ability to penetrate biological barriers. Besides various methods for synthesizing PDNMs, such as green synthesis techniques that utilize plant extracts and natural compounds, the advantages of using plant-derived materials, such as their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low toxicity, were elucidated. In addition, it examines the recent and emerging trends in nanomaterials derived from plant approaches to combat antimicrobial resistance and metabolic diseases. The sizes of nanomaterials and their surface areas are vital as they play essential roles in the interactions and relationships between these materials and the biological components or organization. We critically analyze the biomedical applications of nanoparticles which include antibacterial composites for implantable devices and nanosystems to combat antimicrobial resistance, enhance antibiotic delivery, and improve microbial diagnostic/detection systemsIn addition, plant extracts can potentially interfere with metabolic syndrome pathways; hence most nano-formulations can reduce chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, lipid profile, and antimicrobial resistance. As a result, these innovative plant-based nanosystems may be a promising contender for various pharmacological applications.

Doxorubicin Interaction with Lipid Monolayers Leads to Decreased Membrane Stiffness when Experiencing Compression-Expansion Dynamics

Physical membrane models permit to study and quantify the interactions of many external molecules with monitored and simplified systems. In this work, we have constructed artificial Langmuir single-lipid monolayers with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), dipalmitoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DPPE), dipalmitoylphosphatidylserine (DPPS), or sphingomyelin to resemble the main lipid components of the mammalian cell membranes. We determined the collapse pressure, minimum area per molecule, and maximum compression modulus (C_s^-1) from surface pressure measurements in a Langmuir trough. Also, from compression/expansion isotherms, we estimated the viscoelastic properties of the monolayers. With this model, we explored the membrane molecular mechanism of toxicity of the well-known anticancer drug doxorubicin, with particular emphasis in cardiotoxicity. The results showed that doxorubicin intercalates mainly between DPPS and sphingomyelin, and less between DPPE, inducing a change in the C_s^-1 of up to 34% for DPPS. The isotherm experiments suggested that doxorubicin had little effect on DPPC, partially solubilized DPPS lipids toward the bulk of the subphase, and caused a slight or large expansion in the DPPE and sphingomyelin monolayers, respectively. Furthermore, the dynamic viscoelasticity of the DPPE and DPPS membranes was greatly reduced (by 43 and 23%, respectively), while the reduction amounted only to 12% for sphingomyelin and DPPC models. In conclusion, doxorubicin intercalates into the DPPS, DPPE, and sphingomyelin, but not into the DPPC, membrane lipids, inducing a structural distortion that leads to decreased membrane stiffness and reduced compressibility modulus. These alterations may constitute a novel, early step in explaining the doxorubicin mechanism of action in mammalian cancer cells or its toxicity in non-cancer cells, with relevance to explain its cardiotoxicity.

Role of polyphenolic compounds and their nanoformulations: a comprehensive review on cross-talk between chronic kidney and cardiovascular diseases

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects a huge portion of the world's population and frequently leads to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). It might be because of common risk factors between chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular diseases. Renal dysfunction caused by chronic kidney disease creates oxidative stress which in turn leads to cardiovascular diseases. Oxidative stress causes endothelial dysfunction and inflammation in heart which results in atherosclerosis. It ends in clogging of veins and arteries that causes cardiac stroke and myocardial infarction. To develop an innovative therapeutic approach and new drugs to treat these diseases, it is important to understand the pathophysiological mechanism behind the CKD and CVDs and their interrelationship. Natural phytoconstituents of plants such as polyphenolic compounds are well known for their medicinal value. Polyphenols are plant secondary metabolites with immense antioxidant properties, which can protect from free radical damage. Nowadays, polyphenols are generating a lot of buzz in the scientific community because of their potential health benefits especially in the case of heart and kidney diseases. This review provides a detailed account of the pathophysiological link between CKD and CVDs and the pharmacological potential of polyphenols and their nanoformulations in promoting cardiovascular and renal health.

Immunoregulation by resveratrol; implications for normal tissue protection and tumour suppression

Immune reactions are involved in both tumour and normal tissue in response to therapy. Elevated secretion of certain chemokines, exosomes and cytokines triggers inflammation, pain, fibrosis and ulceration among other normal tissue side effects. On the other hand, secretion of tumour-promoting molecules suppresses activity of anticancer immune cells and facilitates the proliferation of malignant cells. Novel anticancer drugs such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) boost anticancer immunity via inducing the proliferation of anticancer cells such as natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T lymphocytes. Certain chemotherapy drugs and radiotherapy may induce anticancer immunity in the tumour, however, both have severe side effects for normal tissues through stimulation of several immune responses. Thus, administration of natural products with low side effects may be a promising approach to modulate the immune system in both tumour and normal organs. Resveratrol is a well-known phenol with diverse effects on normal tissues and tumours. To date, a large number of experiments have confirmed the potential of resveratrol as an anticancer adjuvant. This review focuses on ensuing stimulation or suppression of immune responses in both tumour and normal tissue after radiotherapy or anticancer drugs. Later on, the immunoregulatory effects of resveratrol in both tumour and normal tissue following exposure to anticancer agents will be discussed.

Current Insight into Novel Delivery Approaches of Resveratrol for Improving Therapeutic Efficacy and Bioavailability with its Clinical Updates

Resveratrol (RSV) is a polyphenolic phytoalexin, and belongs to the stilbene family. RSV has several therapeutic activities such as cardioprotective, anticancer, and antioxidant. Apart from its therapeutic benefits, its pharmacological uses are limited due to low solubility, poor bioavailability, and short biological halflife. A researcher continuously focuses on overcoming the limitations of RSV through nanotechnology platforms to get the optimum health benefits. In this context, nanocarriers are pioneering to overcome these drawbacks. Nanocarriers possess high drug loading capacity, thermal stability, low production cost, longer shelflife, etc. Fortunately, scientists were proficient in delivering resveratrol-based nanocarriers in the present scenario. Nanocarriers can deliver drugs to the target sites without compromising the bioavailability. Thus, this review highlights how the latest nanocarrier systems overcome the shortcomings of RSV, which will be good for improving therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability. Moreover, recent updates on resveratrol-based novel formulations and their clinical trials have been addressed to manage several health-related problems.

Histopathological, physiological and biochemical assessment of resveratrol nanocapsules efficacy in bleomycin-induced acute and chronic lung injury in rats

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening illness which may progress to chronic pulmonary fibrosis (CPF). Resveratrol (RSV), a natural polyphenol, is known to exert several pharmacological effects on lung injury. However, its physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetic profile limit its clinical applications. In this study, RSV was loaded into lipid nanocapsules (LNCs) aiming to overcome these limitations. RSV-LNCs were prepared by phase inversion method and showed small uniform particle size (∼55 nm, PdI 0.04) with high entrapment efficiency >99%. The efficacy of RSV-LNCs in the prophylaxis against ALI and treatment of CPF was investigated in bleomycin-induced lung injury. For assessment of ALI, rats were administered a single oral dose of RSV (10 mg/kg) either free or as RSV-LNCs 4 h before bleomycin and euthanized 3 days later. For CPF, treatments in the same dose were given daily from days 10–20 after bleomycin and rats were euthanized on day-21. Results showed enhanced beneficial role for RSV-LNCs, compared to RSV, in the prevention of ALI as demonstrated by preservation of pulmonary microscopic and ultrastructural architecture and improvement of pulmonary functions. Analysis of BALF revealed reduction in oxidative stress markers, IL-6 level, leukocytosis and neutrophilia. iNOS and c-caspase 3 immunohistochemical expression and CD68⁺ cells immunofluorescence were inhibited. However, RSV-LNCs failed to show any improvement in oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, apoptosis and collagen deposition in CPF. In conclusion, RSV-LNCs are promising nanoplatforms for mitigating ALI detrimental effects. Future research investigating higher doses and longer durations of treatment is recommended to evaluate RSV-LNCs anti-fibrotic potential in CPF.

The Formation of Self-Assembled Nanoparticles Loaded with Doxorubicin and d-Limonene for Cancer Therapy

Self-assembled nanoparticles present unique properties that have potential applications in the development of a successful drug delivery system. Doxorubicin (DOX) is an important anti-neoplastic anthracycline chemotherapeutic drug widely described. However, it suffers from serious dose-dependent cardiotoxicity. d-Limonene is a major constituent of numerous citrus oils that is considered a specific monoterpene against free radicals producing antioxidant activity. Herein, we aimed to design three types of self-assembled nanodelivery systems (nanoemulsion, niosomes, and polylactide nanoparticles) for loading both DOX and d-limonene to enhance the solubilization of d-limonene and provide antioxidant activity with excellent anticancer activity. As confirmed by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy, the nanoparticles were prepared successfully with diameter sizes of 52, 180, and 257 nm for the DOX-loaded nanoemulsion, niosomes, and polylactide nanoparticles, respectively. The zeta potential values were above -30 mV in all cases, which confirms the formation of stable nanoparticles. The loading efficiency of DOX was the highest in the case of the DOX-loaded nanoemulsion (75.8%), followed by niosomes (62.8%), and the least was in the case of polylactide nanoparticles with a percentage of 50.2%. The in vitro release study of the DOX-loaded nanoparticles showed a sustained release profile of doxorubicin with the highest release in the case of DOX-loaded PDLLA nanoparticles. The kinetic release model for all developed nanoparticles was the Peppas-Sahlin model, demonstrating DOX release through Fickian diffusion phenomena. Moreover, all developed nanoparticles maintain the antioxidant activity of d-limonene. The cytotoxicity study of the DOX-loaded nanoparticles showed concentration-dependent anticancer activity with excellent anticancer activity in the case of the DOX-loaded nanoemulsion and polylactide nanoparticles. These nanoparticles will be further studied in vivo to prove the cardioprotective effect of d-limonene in combination with DOX.

Molecular insights and therapeutic implications of nanoengineered dietary polyphenols for targeting lung carcinoma: part I

Lung cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, and non-small-cell lung cancer accounts for most lung cancer cases. Nanotechnology-based drug-delivery systems have exhibited immense potential in lung cancer therapy due to their fascinating physicochemical characteristics, in vivo stability, bioavailability, prolonged and targeted delivery, gastrointestinal absorption and therapeutic efficiency of their numerous chemotherapeutic agents. However, traditional chemotherapeutics have systemic toxicity issues; therefore, dietary polyphenols might potentially replace them in lung cancer treatment. Polyphenol-based targeted nanotherapeutics have demonstrated interaction with a multitude of protein targets and cellular signaling pathways that affect major cellular processes. This review summarizes the various molecular mechanisms and targeted therapeutic potentials of nanoengineered dietary polyphenols in the effective management of lung cancer.

Rhodojaponin III-Loaded Chitosan Derivatives-Modified Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Multimodal Antinociceptive Effects in vivo

Background

Rhodojaponin III (RJ-III) is a bioactive diterpenoid, which is mainly found in Rhododendron molle G. Don (Ericaceae), a potent analgesia in traditional Chinese medicine with several years of clinical applications in the country. However, its clinical use is limited by its acute toxicity and poor pharmacokinetic profiles. To reduce such limitations, the current study incorporated RJ-III into the colloidal drug delivery system of hydroxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride chitosan (HACC)-modified solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) to improve its sustained release and antinociceptive effects in vivo for oral delivery.

Results

The optimized RJ-III@HACC-SLNs were close to spherical, approximately 134 nm in size, and with a positive zeta potential. In vitro experiments showed that RJ-III@HACC-SLNs were stable in the simulated gastric fluid and had a prolonged release in PBS (pH = 6.8). Pharmacokinetic results showed that after intragastric administration in mice, the relative bioavailability of RJ-III@HACC-SLNs was 87.9%. Further, it was evident that the peak time, half-time, and mean retention time of RJ-III@HACC-SLNs were improved than RJ-III after the administration. In addition, pharmacodynamic studies revealed that RJ-III@HACC-SLNs markedly reduced the acetic acid, hot, and formalin-induced nociceptive responses in mice (P < 0.001), and notably increased the analgesic time (P < 0.01). Moreover, RJ-III@HACC-SLNs not only showed good biocompatibility with Caco-2 cells in vitro but its LD₅₀ value was also increased by 1.8-fold as compared with that of RJ-III in vivo.

Conclusion

These results demonstrated that RJ-III@HACC-SLNs improved the pharmacokinetic characteristics of the RJ-III, thereby exhibiting toxicity-attenuating potential and antinociceptive enhancing properties. Consequently, HACC-SLNs loaded with RJ-III could become a promising oral formulation for pain management that deserves further investigation in the future.

The Role of Nutrition in Primary and Secondary Prevention of Cardiovascular Damage in Childhood Cancer Survivors

Innovative therapeutic strategies in childhood cancer led to a significant reduction in cancer-related mortality. Cancer survivors are a growing fragile population, at risk of long-term side effects of cancer treatments, thus requiring customized clinical attention. Antineoplastic drugs have a wide toxicity profile that can limit their clinical usage and spoil patients' life, even years after the end of treatment. The cardiovascular system is a well-known target of antineoplastic treatments, including anthracyclines, chest radiotherapy and new molecules, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. We investigated nutritional changes in children with cancer from the diagnosis to the end of treatment and dietary habits in cancer survivors. At diagnosis, children with cancer may present variable degrees of malnutrition, potentially affecting drug tolerability and prognosis. During cancer treatment, the usage of corticosteroids can lead to rapid weight gain, exposing children to overweight and obesity. Moreover, dietary habits and lifestyle often dramatically change in cancer survivors, who acquire sedentary behavior and weak adherence to dietary guidelines. Furthermore, we speculated on the role of nutrition in the primary prevention of cardiac damage, investigating the potential cardioprotective role of diet-derived compounds with antioxidative properties. Finally, we summarized practical advice to improve the dietary habits of cancer survivors and their families.

Nanoparticles in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular aging and related diseases

Aging-induced alternations of vasculature structures, phenotypes, and functions are key in the occurrence and development of vascular aging-related diseases. Multiple molecular and cellular events, such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, vascular inflammation, cellular senescence, and epigenetic alterations are highly associated with vascular aging physiopathology. Advances in nanoparticles and nanotechnology, which can realize sensitive diagnostic modalities, efficient medical treatment, and better prognosis as well as less adverse effects on non-target tissues, provide an amazing window in the field of vascular aging and related diseases. Throughout this review, we presented current knowledge on classification of nanoparticles and the relationship between vascular aging and related diseases. Importantly, we comprehensively summarized the potential of nanoparticles-based diagnostic and therapeutic techniques in vascular aging and related diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, as well as chronic kidney diseases, and discussed the advantages and limitations of their clinical applications.

Resveratrol as a modulatory of apoptosis and autophagy in cancer therapy

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death, with a heavy socio-economical burden for countries. Despite the great advances that have been made in the treatment of cancer, chemotherapy is still the most common method of treatment. However, many side effects, including hepatotoxicity, renal toxicity, and cardiotoxicity, limit the efficacy of conventional chemotherapy. Over recent years, natural products have attracted attention as therapeutic agents against various diseases, such as cancer. Resveratrol (RES), a natural polyphenol occurring in grapes, nuts, wine, and berries, exhibited potential for preventing and treating various cancer types. RES also ameliorates chemotherapy-induced detrimental effects. Furthermore, RES could modulate apoptosis and autophagy as the main forms of cancer cell deaths by targeting various signaling pathways and up/downregulation of apoptotic and autophagic genes. This review will summarize the anti-cancer effects of RES and focus on the fundamental mechanisms and targets for modulating apoptosis and autophagy by RES.

Resveratrol-Encapsulated Mitochondria-Targeting Liposome Enhances Mitochondrial Respiratory Capacity in Myocardial Cells

The development of drug delivery systems for use in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases is an area of great interest. We report herein on an evaluation of the therapeutic potential of a myocardial mitochondria-targeting liposome, a multifunctional envelope-type nano device for targeting pancreatic β cells (β-MEND) that was previously developed in our laboratory. Resveratrol (RES), a natural polyphenol compound that has a cardioprotective effect, was encapsulated in the β-MEND (β-MEND (RES)), and its efficacy was evaluated using rat myocardioblasts (H9c2 cells). The β-MEND (RES) was readily taken up by H9c2 cells, as verified by fluorescence-activated cell sorter data, and was observed to be colocalized with intracellular mitochondria by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Myocardial mitochondrial function was evaluated by a Seahorse XF Analyzer and the results showed that the β-MEND (RES) significantly activated cellular maximal respiratory capacity. In addition, the β-MEND (RES) showed no cellular toxicity for H9c2 cells as evidenced by Premix WST-1 assays. This is the first report of the use of a myocardial mitochondria-targeting liposome encapsulating RES for activating mitochondrial function, which was clearly confirmed based on analyses using a Seahorse XF Analyzer.

Bioactive Compounds and Nanodelivery Perspectives for Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases

Bioactive compounds are comprised of small quantities of extra nutritional constituents providing both health benefits and enhanced nutritional value, based on their ability to modulate one or more metabolic processes. Plant-based diets are being thoroughly researched for their cardiovascular properties and effectiveness against cancer. Flavonoids, phytoestrogens, phenolic compounds, and carotenoids are some of the bioactive compounds that aim to work in prevention and treating the cardiovascular disease in a systemic manner, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and heart failure. Their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are the most important characteristics that make them favorable candidates for CVDs treatment. However, their low water solubility and stability results in low bioavailability, limited accessibility, and poor absorption. The oral delivery of bioactive compounds is constrained due to physiological barriers such as the pH, mucus layer, gastrointestinal enzymes, epithelium, etc. The present review aims to revise the main bioactive compounds with a significant role in CVDs in terms of preventive, diagnostic, and treatment measures. The advantages of nanoformulations and novel multifunctional nanomaterials development are described in order to overcome multiple obstacles, including the physiological ones, by summarizing the most recent preclinical data and clinical trials reported in the literature. Nanotechnologies will open a new window in the area of CVDs with the opportunity to achieve effective treatment, better prognosis, and less adverse effects on non-target tissues.

pH-sensitive doxorubicin-tocopherol succinate prodrug encapsulated in docosahexaenoic acid-based nanostructured lipid carriers: An effective strategy to improve pharmacokinetics and reduce toxic effects

Side effects often limit the use of doxorubicin (DOX) in cancer treatment. We have recently developed a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) formulation for synergistic chemotherapy, encapsulating DOX and the anticancer adjuvants docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and α-tocopherol succinate (TS). Hydrophobic ion-pairing with TS allowed a high DOX entrapment in the nanocarrier. In this work, we investigated the pharmacokinetics of this formulation after intravenous administration in mice. The first data obtained led us to propose synthesizing covalent DOX-TS conjugates to increase DOX retention in the NLC. We successfully conjugated DOX to TS via an amide or hydrazone bond. In vitro studies in 4T1 tumor cells indicated low cytotoxicity of the amide derivative, while the hydrazone conjugate was effective in killing cancer cells. We encapsulated the hydrazone derivative in a DHA-based nanocarrier (DOX-hyd-TS/NLC), which had reduced particle size and high drug encapsulation efficiency. The pH-sensitive hydrazone bond allowed controlled DOX release from the NLC, with increased drug release at acidic conditions. In vivo studies revealed that DOX-hyd-TS/NLC had a better pharmacokinetic profile than free DOX and attenuated the short-term cardiotoxic effects caused by DOX, such as QT prolongation and impaired left ventricular systolic function. Moreover, this formulation showed excellent therapeutic performance by reducing tumor growth in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice and decreasing DOX-induced toxicity to the heart and liver, demonstrated by hematologic, biochemical, and histologic analyses. These results indicate that DOX-hyd-TS/NLC may be a promising nanocarrier for breast cancer treatment.

Relationship between Chemotherapy and Atrial Fibrillation: Clinical Case

The aim of this article is to represent the characterization of the clinical case of chemotherapy-related atrial fibrillation (AF) development in the young woman, elaborated as a result of multiple neoadjuvant and adjuvant modes of the intake of chemotherapy (both anthracycline based and non-anthracycline ones). In this case, the noted disturbances of heart rhythm should be recognized as a manifestation of cardiotoxicity. The latter implies the degree of detrimental effect of chemotherapeutical medication on the morphophynctional parameters of the cardiovascular system. Anthracycline drugs, being highly effective chemotherapytical agents, provide well-known toxic effects on the heart and vessels. Anthracycline mediated cardiotoxicity is a well- known veracity that dates back to the 60s of the last century, but up to now this medication sustains irreplaceable components of big volume of chemotherapy modes. Moreover, it should be noted that relatively newer drugs also posses certain cardiotoxicogenic potential.

Nanoencapsulation of Polyphenols as Drugs and Supplements for Enhancing Therapeutic Profile - A Review

Polyphenolic phytoconstituents have been widely in use worldwide since ages and are categorised as secondary metabolites of plants. The application of polyphenols such as quercetin, resveratrol. curcumin as nutritional supplement has been researched widely. The use of polyphenols, and specifically quercetin for improving the memory and mental endurance have shown significant effects among rats. Even though similar results has not been resonated among human but encouraging preclinical results have encouraged researchers to explore other polyphenols to study the effects as supplements among athletes. The phytopharmacological research has elucidated the use of natural polyphenols to prevent and treat various physiological and metabolic disorders owing to its free radical scavenging properties, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and immunomodulatory effects. In spite of the tremendous pharmacological profile, one of the most dominant problem regarding the use of polyphenolic compounds is their low bioavailability. Nanonization is considered as one of the most prominent approaches among many. This article aims to review and discuss the molecular mechanisms of recently developed nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems for polyphenols and its application as drugs and supplements. Nanoformulations of natural polyphenols are bioactive agents, such as quercetin, kaempferol, fisetin, rutin, hesperetin, and naringenin epigalloccatechin-3-gallate, genistein, ellagic acid, gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, curcuminoids and stilbenes is expected to have better efficacy. These delivery systems are expected to provide higher penetrability of polyphenols at cellular levels and exhibit a controlled release of the drugs. It is widely accepted that natural polyphenols do demonstrate significant therapeutic effect. However, the hindrances in their absorption, specificity and bioavailability can be overcome using nanotechnology.

Enhanced oral permeability of Trans-Resveratrol using nanocochleates for boosting anticancer efficacy; in-vitro and ex-vivo appraisal

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent liver cancer representing the fourth most lethal cancer worldwide. Trans-Resveratrol (T-R) possesses a promising anticancer activity against HCC. However, it suffers from poor bioavailability because of the low solubility, chemical instability, and hepatic metabolism. Herein, we developed T-R-loaded nanocochleates using a simple trapping method. Nanocarriers were optimized using a comprehensive in-vitro characterization toolset and evaluated for the anticancer activity against HepG2 cell line. T-R-loaded nanocochleates demonstrated monodispersed cylinders (163.27 ± 2.68 nm and 0.25 ± 0.011 PDI) and -46.6 mV ζ-potential. They exhibited a controlled biphasic pattern with minimal burst followed by sustained release for 72 h. Significant enhancements of Caco-2 transport and ex-vivo intestinal permeation over liposomes, with 1.8 and 2.1-folds respectively, were observed. Nanocochleates showed significant reduction of 24 h IC₅₀ values compared to liposomes and free T-R. Moreover, an efficient knockdown of anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) and cancer stemness (NANOG) genes was demonstrated. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to develop T-R loaded nanocochleates and scrutinize its potential in suppressing NANOG expression, 2-folds lower, compared to free T-R. According to these auspicious outcomes, nanocochleates represent a promising nanoplatform to enhance T-R oral permeability and augment its anticancer efficacy in the treatment of HCC.

A Systematic Review of the Potential Chemoprotective Effects of Resveratrol on Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity: Focus on the Antioxidant, Antiapoptotic, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities

PURPOSE

Although doxorubicin chemotherapeutic drug is commonly used to treat various solid and hematological tumors, its clinical use is restricted because of its adverse effects on the normal cells/tissues, especially cardiotoxicity. The use of resveratrol may mitigate the doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxic effects. For this aim, we systematically reviewed the potential chemoprotective effects of resveratrol against the doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

METHODS

In the current study, a systematic search was performed based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline for the identification of all relevant studies on "the role of resveratrol on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity" in the electronic databases of Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus up to March 2021 using search terms in their titles and abstracts. Two hundred and eighteen articles were screened in accordance with a predefined set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Finally, 33 eligible articles were included in this systematic review.

RESULTS

The in vitro and in vivo findings demonstrated a decreased cell survival, increased mortality, decreased heart weight, and increased ascites in the doxorubicin-treated groups compared to the control groups. The combined treatment of resveratrol and doxorubicin showed an opposite pattern than the doxorubicin-treated groups alone. Furthermore, this chemotherapeutic agent induced the biochemical and histopathological changes on the cardiac cells/tissue; however, the results (for most of the cases) revealed that these alterations induced by doxorubicin were reversed near to normal levels (control groups) by resveratrol coadministration.

CONCLUSION

The results of this systematic review stated that coadministration of resveratrol alleviates the doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Resveratrol exerts these chemoprotective effects through several main mechanisms of antioxidant, antiapoptosis, and anti-inflammatory.

Role of acetylation in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity

As a potent chemotherapeutic agent, doxorubicin (DOX) is widely used for the treatment of a variety of cancers However, its clinical utility is limited by dose-dependent cardiotoxicity, and pathogenesis has traditionally been attributed to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Accordingly, the prevention of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity is an indispensable goal to optimize therapeutic regimens and reduce morbidity. Acetylation is an emerging and important epigenetic modification regulated by histone deacetylases (HDACs) and histone acetyltransferases (HATs). Despite extensive studies of the molecular basis and biological functions of acetylation, the application of acetylation as a therapeutic target for cardiotoxicity is in the initial stage, and further studies are required to clarify the complex acetylation network and improve the clinical management of cardiotoxicity. In this review, we summarize the pivotal functions of HDACs and HATs in DOX-induced oxidative stress, the underlying mechanisms, the contributions of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and exercise-mediated deacetylases to cardiotoxicity. Furthermore, we describe research progress related to several important SIRT activators and HDAC inhibitors with potential clinical value for chemotherapy and cardiotoxicity. Collectively, a comprehensive understanding of specific roles and recent developments of acetylation in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity will provide a basis for improved treatment outcomes in cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Innovative Delivery Systems Loaded with Plant Bioactive Ingredients: Formulation Approaches and Applications

Plants constitute a rich source of diverse classes of valuable phytochemicals (e.g., phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids) with proven biological activity (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, etc.). However, factors such as low stability, poor solubility and bioavailability limit their food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical applications. In this regard, a wide range of delivery systems have been developed to increase the stability of plant-derived bioactive compounds upon processing, storage or under gastrointestinal digestion conditions, to enhance their solubility, to mask undesirable flavors as well as to efficiently deliver them to the target tissues where they can exert their biological activity and promote human health. In the present review, the latest advances regarding the design of innovative delivery systems for pure plant bioactive compounds, extracts or essential oils, in order to overcome the above-mentioned challenges, are presented. Moreover, a broad spectrum of applications along with future trends are critically discussed.

Combination prostate cancer therapy: Prostate-specific membranes antigen targeted, pH-sensitive nanoparticles loaded with doxorubicin and tanshinone

Prostate cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer in the men population. Combination anticancer therapy using doxorubicin (DOX) and another extract of traditional Chinese medicine is one nano-sized drug delivery system promising to generate synergistic anticancer effects, maximize the treatment effect, and overcome multi-drug resistance. The purpose of this study is to construct a drug delivery system for the co-delivery of DOX and tanshinones (TAN). Lipid nanoparticles loaded with DOX and TAN (N-DOX/TAN) were prepared by emulsification and solvent-diffusion method. PSMA targeted nanoparticles loaded with DOX and TAN (P-N-DOX/TAN) were synthesized by conjugating a PSMA targeted ligand to N-DOX/TAN. We evaluate the performance of this system in vitro and in vivo. P-N-DOX/TAN has a size of 139.7 ± 4.1 nm and a zeta potential of 11.2 ± 1.6 mV. The drug release of DOX and TAN from P-N-DOX/TAN was much faster than that of N-DOX/TAN. N-DOX/TAN presented more inhibition effect on tumor growth than N-DOX and N-TAN, which is consistent with the synergistic results and successfully highlighting the advantages of combing the DOX and TAN in one system. P-N-DOX/TAN achieved higher uptake by LNCaP cells (58.9 ± 1.9%), highest tumor tissue distribution, and the most significant tumor inhibition efficiency. The novel nanomedicine offers great promise for the dual drug delivery to prostate cancer cells, showing the potential of synergistic combination therapy for prostate cancer.

Current Advances in the Use of Nanophytomedicine Therapies for Human Cardiovascular Diseases

Considering the high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the primary cause of death during the last several decades, it is necessary to develop proper strategies for the prevention and treatment of CVDs. Given the excessive side effects of current therapies, alternative therapeutic approaches like medicinal plants and natural products are preferred. Lower toxicity, chemical diversity, cost-effectiveness, and proven therapeutic potentials make natural products superior compared to other products. Nanoformulation methods improve the solubility, bioavailability, circulation time, surface area-to-volume ratio, systemic adverse side effects, and drug delivery efficiency of these medications. This study intended to review the functionality of the most recent nanoformulated medicinal plants and/or natural products against various cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and myocardial infarction. Literature review revealed that curcumin, quercetin, and resveratrol were the most applied natural products, respectively. Combination therapy, conjugation, or fabrication of nanoparticles and nanocarriers improved the applications and therapeutic efficacy of herbal- or natural-based nanoformulations. In the context of CVDs prevention and/or treatment, available data suggest that natural-based nanoformulations are considerably efficient, alone or in blend with other herbal/synthetic medicines. However, clinical trials are mandatory to elucidate the safety, cardioprotective effect, and mechanism of actions of nanophytomedicines.

Molecular mechanisms of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity: novel roles of sirtuin 1-mediated signaling pathways

Doxorubicin (DOX) is an anthracycline chemotherapy drug used in the treatment of various types of cancer. However, short-term and long-term cardiotoxicity limits the clinical application of DOX. Currently, dexrazoxane is the only approved treatment by the United States Food and Drug Administration to prevent DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. However, a recent study found that pre-treatment with dexrazoxane could not fully improve myocardial toxicity of DOX. Therefore, further targeted cardioprotective prophylaxis and treatment strategies are an urgent requirement for cancer patients receiving DOX treatment to reduce the occurrence of cardiotoxicity. Accumulating evidence manifested that Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) could play a crucially protective role in heart diseases. Recently, numerous studies have concentrated on the role of SIRT1 in DOX-induced cardiotoxicity, which might be related to the activity and deacetylation of SIRT1 downstream targets. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize the recent advances related to the protective effects, mechanisms, and deficiencies in clinical application of SIRT1 in DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Also, the pharmaceutical preparations that activate SIRT1 and affect DOX-induced cardiotoxicity have been listed in this review.

Polyphenols against infectious diseases: Controlled release nano-formulations

The emergence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens has become a global threat and a cause of significant morbidity and mortality around the world. Natural products have been used as a promising approach to counter the infectious diseases associated with these pathogens. The application of natural products and their derivatives especially polyphenolic compounds as antibacterial agents is an active area of research, and prior studies have successfully treated a variety of bacterial infections using these polyphenolic compounds. However, delivery of polyphenolic compounds has been challenging due to their physicochemical properties and often poor aqueous solubility. In this regard, nanotechnology-based novel drug delivery systems offer many advantages, including improving bioavailability and the controlled release of polyphenolic compounds. This review summarizes the pharmacological mechanism and use of nano-formulations in developing controlled release delivery systems of naturally occurring polyphenols in infectious diseases.

Anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy: cellular and molecular mechanisms

Despite the known risk of cardiotoxicity, anthracyclines are widely prescribed chemotherapeutic agents. They are broadly characterized as being a robust effector of cellular apoptosis in rapidly proliferating cells through its actions in the nucleus and formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). And, despite the early use of dexrazoxane, no effective treatment strategy has emerged to prevent the development of cardiomyopathy, despite decades of study, suggesting that much more insight into the underlying mechanism of the development of cardiomyopathy is needed. In this review, we detail the specific intracellular activities of anthracyclines, from the cell membrane to the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and highlight potential therapeutic windows that represent the forefront of research into the underlying causes of anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy.

Towards the use of localised delivery strategies to counteract cancer therapy-induced cardiotoxicities

Cancer therapies have significantly improved cancer survival; however, these therapies can often result in undesired side effects to off target organs. Cardiac disease ranging from mild hypertension to heart failure can occur as a result of cancer therapies. This can warrant the discontinuation of cancer treatment in patients which can be detrimental, especially when the treatment is effective. There is an urgent need to mitigate cardiac disease that occurs as a result of cancer therapy. Delivery strategies such as the use of nanoparticles, hydrogels, and medical devices can be used to localise the treatment to the tumour and prevent off target side effects. This review summarises the advancements in localised delivery of anti-cancer therapies to tumours. It also examines the localised delivery of cardioprotectants to the heart for patients with systemic disease such as leukaemia where localised tumour delivery might not be an option.

Resveratrol: nanocarrier-based delivery systems to enhance its therapeutic potential

Resveratrol (3,5,4'-trihydroxystilbene) is a polyphenolic compound existing in trees, peanuts and grapes and exhibits a broad spectrum of promising therapeutic activities, but it is unclear whether this entity targets the sites of action after oral administration. In vivo applicability of resveratrol has limited success so far, mainly due to its incompetent systemic delivery resulting from its low water solubility, poor bioavailability and short biological half-life. First-pass metabolism and presence of enterohepatic recirculation create doubt on the biological application of high doses typically used for in vitro trials. To augment bioavailability, absorption and uptake of resveratrol by cellular internalization, countless approaches have been implemented which involve the use of nanocarriers. Nanocarriers are a well-known delivery system used to reduce first-pass hepatic metabolism, overcome enterohepatic recirculation and accelerate the absorption of drugs via lymphatic pathways.

Nanotoxicology of Dendrimers in the Mammalian Heart: ex vivo and in vivo Administration of G6 PAMAM Nanoparticles Impairs Recovery of Cardiac Function Following Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Aim

The effects of polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers on the mammalian heart are not completely understood. In this study, we have investigated the effects of a sixth-generation cationic dendrimer (G6 PAMAM) on cardiac function in control and diabetic rat hearts following ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury.

Methods

Isolated hearts from healthy non-diabetic (Ctr) male Wistar rats were subjected to ischemia and reperfusion (I/R). LV contractility and hemodynamics data were computed digitally whereas cardiac damage following I/R injury was assessed by measuring cardiac enzymes. For ex vivo acute exposure experiments, G6 PAMAM was administered during the first 10 mins of reperfusion in Ctr animals. In chronic in vivo studies, nondiabetic rats (Ctr) received either vehicle or daily i.p. injections of G6 PAMAM (40 mg/kg) for 4 weeks. Diabetic (D) animals received either vehicle or daily i.p. injections of G6 PAMAM (10, 20 or 40 mg/kg) for 4 weeks. The impact of G6 PAMAM on pacing-postconditioning (PPC) was also studied in Ctr and D rats.

Results

In ex vivo studies, acute administration of G6 PAMAM to isolated Ctr hearts during reperfusion dose-dependently impaired recovery of cardiac hemodynamics and vascular dynamics parameters following I/R injury. Chronic daily i.p. injections of G6 PAMAM significantly (P<0.01) impaired recovery of cardiac function following I/R injury in nondiabetic animals but this was not generally observed in diabetic animals except for CF which was impaired by about 50%. G6 PAMAM treatment completely blocked the protective effects of PPC in the Ctr animals.

Conclusion

Acute ex vivo or chronic in vivo treatment with naked G6 PAMAM dendrimer can significantly compromise recovery of non-diabetic hearts from I/R injury and can further negate the beneficial effects of PPC. Our findings are therefore extremely important in the nanotoxicological evaluation of G6 PAMAM dendrimers for potential clinical applications in physiological and pathological settings.

Resveratrol targeting tau proteins, amyloid-beta aggregations, and their adverse effects: An updated review

Resveratrol (Res) is a non-flavonoid compound with pharmacological actions such as antioxidant, antiinflammatory, hepatoprotective, antidiabetes, and antitumor. This plant-derived chemical has a long history usage in treatment of diseases. The excellent therapeutic impacts of Res and its capability in penetration into blood-brain barrier have made it an appropriate candidate in the treatment of neurological disorders (NDs). Tau protein aggregations and amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposits are responsible for the induction of NDs. A variety of studies have elucidated the role of these aggregations in NDs and the underlying molecular pathways in their development. In the present review, based on the recently published articles, we describe that how Res administration could inhibit amyloidogenic pathway and stimulate processes such as autophagy to degrade Aβ aggregations. Besides, we demonstrate that Res supplementation is beneficial in dephosphorylation of tau proteins and suppressing their aggregations. Then, we discuss molecular pathways and relate them to the treatment of NDs.