Conjugation Of EGCG And Chitosan NPs As A Novel Nano-Drug Delivery System

Nano-encapsulation of epigallocatechin gallate using starch nanoparticles: Characterization and insights on in vitro micellar cholesterol solubility

The present work investigates the in vitro cholesterol reduction bioactivity of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) prior to and after nano-encapsulation using potato starch nanoparticle (SNP) as wall material. EGCG encapsulation in potato SNPs was achieved through a green inclusion complexation method. The encapsulated EGCG was characterized for its morphology, thermal, and crystalline properties using FESEM, DSC, XRD, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) studies. The bioactivity of EGCG to reduce gut cholesterol was studied using in vitro micellar cholesterol solubility study. The encapsulated EGCG exhibited enhanced thermal and crystalline properties. The FESEM results indicated successful nano-encapsulation of EGCG at 20-120 nm diameter. The melting point enhanced from 225.7°C in EGCG to 282.9°C in encapsulated EGCG. The crystallinity also enhanced and could be observed through the increased intensity in the encapsulated EGCG. The FTIR results affirmed a shifting of peaks at 3675, 2927, 1730, and 1646 cm-1, which corresponds to formation of new H bonds and confirms successful encapsulation of EGCG in SNPs. Further, EGCG had significantly reduced the cholesterol concentration by 91.63% as observed through the in vitro micellar inhibition study. The encapsulated EGCG was not able to reduce cholesterol as observed in the in vitro micellar cholesterol solubility study. This effect occurred due to the unavailability of EGCG after it formed a complex with SNPs. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study first investigates the utilization of newly synthesized potato starch nanoparticles as a coating material for nano-encapsulation of EGCG. The enhanced thermal and crystalline properties of these nanoparticles contribute to improved attributes in the nano-encapsulated EGCG. Such properties hold promise for applications in functional food matrices subjected to high-temperature processing, including functional cookies, bread, and cakes. Furthermore, this research explores the bioactivity of EGCG concerning its capacity to reduce gut cholesterol levels. It also examines the potential application of nano-encapsulated EGCG in lowering gut cholesterol through a micellar solubility study.

Optimized Epigallocatechin Gallate Delivery and Adipogenesis Inhibition through Fluorescent Mesoporous Nanocarriers

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a naturally occurring compound known for its multiple health benefits including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cancer preventive, and weight management effects, faces challenges due to its inherent instability and limited bioavailability. To address these limitations, our study pioneers an investigation into the unique behavior of EGCG, revealing its degradation into epicatechin (EGC) and gallic acid (GA) during the drug delivery process. In this research, we use fluorescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles (FMSNs) as a sophisticated delivery system for EGCG. This innovative approach aims to not only enhance the stability of EGCG but also regulate its sustained release dynamics to enable prolonged cellular activity. To comprehensively evaluate our novel delivery strategy, we performed assays to assess both the antioxidant potential and its impact on lipid inhibition using Oil Red O. The results not only underscore the potential of FMSN-based nanocarriers for efficient EGCG delivery but also reveal groundbreaking insights into its enzymatic degradation, a previously unexplored facet. This research substantially advances our understanding of EGCG's behavior during delivery and offers a promising avenue for improving its therapeutic efficacy and expanding its applications in health management.

In vivo investigation of the anti-liver fibrosis impact of Balanites aegyptiaca/ chitosan nanoparticles

Balanites aegyptiaca (B. aegyptiaca) is an African herb with traditional medical applications. Various pathogenic factors cause hepatic fibrosis and require novel treatment alternatives. Nanoformulation-based natural products can overcome the available drug problems by increasing the efficacy of natural products targeting disease markers. The current study investigated B. aegyptiaca methanolic extract using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), and B. aegyptiaca/chitosan nanoparticles were prepared. In vivo, evaluation tests were performed to assess the curative effect of the successfully prepared B. aegyptiaca/chitosan nanoparticles. For 30 days, the rats were divided into six groups, typical and fibrosis groups, where the liver fibrosis groups received B. aegyptiaca extract, silymarin, chitosan nanoparticles, and B. aegyptiaca/chitosan nanoparticles daily. In the current investigation, phenolic molecules are the major compounds detected in B. aegyptiaca extract. UV showed that the prepared B. aegyptiaca /chitosan nanoparticles had a single peak at 280 nm, a particle size of 35.0 ± 6.0 nm, and a negative charge at - 8.3 mV. The animal studies showed that the synthetic B. aegyptiaca/chitosan nanoparticles showed substantial anti-fibrotic protective effects against CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats when compared with other groups through optimization of biochemical and oxidative markers, improved histological changes, and modulated the expression of Col1a1, Acta2 and Cxcl9 genes, which manage liver fibrosis. In conclusion, the current research indicated that the prepared B. aegyptiaca/chitosan nanoparticles improved histological structure and significantly enhanced the biochemical and genetic markers of liver fibrosis in an animal model.

Pickering emulsions stabilized by chitosan-flaxseed gum-hyaluronic acid nanoparticles for controlled topical release of ferulic acid

Chitosan (CS) based nanoparticles (NPs) were fabricated via an ionic gelation reaction modified by flaxseed gum (FG) or sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). The average particle size, morphology, interfacial tension, and wettability of NPs were characterized. The particle size of CS-STPP-HA (hyaluronic acid)-FA (ferulic acid) NPs and CS-FG-HA-FA NPs was 400.8 nm and 262.4 nm, respectively under the optimized conditions of CS/STPP = 5:1 (w/w) or CS/FG = 1:1 (v/v) with HA concentration of 0.25 mg/mL and FA dosage of 25 μM. FG acted as a good alternative for STPP to form particles with CS in stabilizing Pickering emulsion with an internal diacylglycerol (DAG) phase of 50-80 % (v/v). The complex nanoparticles had high surface activity and contact angle close to 90 °C, being able to tightly packed at the droplet surface. The emulsions had high thermal, ionic and oxidative stability. With the aid of moisturizing polysaccharides and DAG oil, the emulsions had a good sustained-release ability for FA with deeper penetration and retention into the dermis of the skin. Thus, FG and HA-based NPs serve as green vehicles for the fabrication of novel Pickering emulsions and possess great potential to be applied as a delivery system for lipophilic active agents in functional food and cosmetic products.

Therapeutic potential of natural products in inflammation: underlying molecular mechanisms, clinical outcomes, technological advances, and future perspectives

Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in many major diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, and is responsible for up to 60% of all deaths worldwide. Metformin, statins, and corticosteroids, and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are often given as anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals, however, often have even more debilitating side effects than the illness itself. The natural product-based therapy of inflammation-related diseases has no adverse effects and good beneficial results compared to substitute conventional anti-inflammatory medications. In this review article, we provide a concise overview of present pharmacological treatments, the pathophysiology of inflammation, and the signaling pathways that underlie it. In addition, we focus on the most promising natural products identified as potential anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents. Moreover, preclinical studies and clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of natural products as anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents and their pragmatic applications with promising outcomes are reviewed. In addition, the safety, side effects and technical barriers of natural products are discussed. Furthermore, we also summarized the latest technological advances in the discovery and scientific development of natural products-based medicine.

Chitosan-Based Nanogels Designed for Betanin-Rich Beetroot Extract Transport: Physicochemical and Biological Aspects

Nanotechnology has emerged as a possible solution to improve phytochemicals' limitations. The objective of the present study was to encapsulate beetroot extract (BR Ext) within a chitosan (CS)-based nanogel (NG) designed via ionic crosslinking with tripolyphosphate (TPP) for betanin (Bet) delivery, mainly in the ophthalmic environment. BR Ext is rich in betanin (Bet) according to thin layer chromatography (TLC), UV-visible spectroscopy, and HPLC analysis. NG presented a monodisperse profile with a size of 166 ± 6 nm and low polydispersity (0.30 ± 0.03). ζ potential (ζ-Pot) of +28 ± 1 is indicative of a colloidally stable system. BR Ext encapsulation efficiency (EE) was 45 ± 3%. TEM, with the respective 3D-surface plots and AFM, showed spherical-elliptical-shaped NG. The BR Ext release profile was biphasic with a burst release followed by slow and sustained phase over 12 h. Mucoadhesion assay demonstrated interactions between NG with mucin. Moreover, NG provided photoprotection and pH stability to BR Ext. FRAP and ABTS assays confirmed that BR Ext maintained antioxidant activity into NG. Furthermore, in vitro assays using human retinal cells displayed absence of cytotoxicity as well as an efficient protection against injury agents (LPS and H2O2). NGs are a promising platform for BR Ext encapsulation, exerting controlled release for ophthalmological use.

Chitosan Nanoparticle/Simvastatin for Experimental Maxillary Bony Defect Healing: A Histological and Histomorphometrical Study

Biomaterials such as chitosan and simvastatin (Sim) have been introduced to accelerate the extensive and multicellular biological process of bone healing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bone healing potential of chitosan and Sim, alone or combined. Forty-two male New Zealand rabbits were divided into three groups: chitosan nanoparticles (ChN), Sim and chitosan simvastatin nanoparticles (ChSimN). Two bony defects were created in the maxillary bone. The hole on the right side received one of the experimental materials, while the other side was assigned as the control and left to heal without any intervention. Bone specimens were collected at 2 and 4 weeks and then taken for histological and histomorphometrical analyses. The histological findings revealed that ChN possessed the highest number of osteoblasts and osteoclasts at weeks 2 and osteocytes after 4 weeks. There was a significant difference between the two healing periods regarding all bone parameters across all groups. ChN stood out as the only group that had a significant difference in the count of all bone cells between the two periods, thus having the best potential in promoting bone healing.

Comparative study of the properties of lutein nanoliposomes coated with chitosan/(-)-epigallocatechin- 3-gallate (EGCG) complexes

BACKGROUND

Numerous positive effects have been attributed to lutein, a lipophilic nutrient, including resisting ultraviolet radiation and protecting retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells against blue light damage. It also has preventive effects against cardiovascular disease and cancer. However, its use could be limited by its poor stability and low bioaccessibility in the human digestive system. An encapsulation delivery system was therefore developed to resolve these limitations. In this study, chitosan-modified lutein nanoliposomes (CS-LNLs), chitosan-EGCG covalently modified lutein nanoliposomes (C-CS-EGCG-LNLs), and chitosan-EGCG noncovalently modified lutein nanoliposomes (non-C-CS-EGCG-LNLs) were designed. The average particle size, ζ-potential, and retention of lutein during storage were measured to indicate the physicochemical stability of the modified lutein nanoliposomes. The bioaccessibility of modified lutein nanoliposomes was also investigated to demonstrate the availability of lutein in the human digestive system.

RESULTS

First, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) verified that covalent bonds between chitosan and EGCG were formed. Subsequently, ζ-potential results revealed that C-CS-EGCG-LNLs had a relatively stable structure in comparison with lutein nanoliposomes (LNLs). The retention rate of lutein in CS-LNLs, C-CS-EGCG-LNLs, and non-C-CS-EGCG-LNLs was improved, especially in C-CS-EGCG-LNLs (at around 70% of lutein in initial system). An in vitro digestion experiment illustrated that CS-LNLs, C-CS-EGCG-LNLs, and non-C-CS-EGCG-LNLs presented relatively higher bioaccessibility, especially in C-CS-EGCG-LNLs (at around 33% of luein in initial system), which increased 2.5 and 1.65 times in comparison with free lutein and LNLs, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the results showed that C-CS-EGCG-LNLs presented greater physicochemical stability and bioaccessibility than LNLs, CS-LNLs, and non-C-CS-EGCG-LNLs. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Polymeric Nanoparticles for Delivery of Natural Bioactive Agents: Recent Advances and Challenges

In the last few decades, several natural bioactive agents have been widely utilized in the treatment and prevention of many diseases owing to their unique and versatile therapeutic effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and neuroprotective action. However, their poor aqueous solubility, poor bioavailability, low GIT stability, extensive metabolism as well as short duration of action are the most shortfalls hampering their biomedical/pharmaceutical applications. Different drug delivery platforms have developed in this regard, and a captivating tool of this has been the fabrication of nanocarriers. In particular, polymeric nanoparticles were reported to offer proficient delivery of various natural bioactive agents with good entrapment potential and stability, an efficiently controlled release, improved bioavailability, and fascinating therapeutic efficacy. In addition, surface decoration and polymer functionalization have opened the door to improving the characteristics of polymeric nanoparticles and alleviating the reported toxicity. Herein, a review of the state of knowledge on polymeric nanoparticles loaded with natural bioactive agents is presented. The review focuses on frequently used polymeric materials and their corresponding methods of fabrication, the needs of such systems for natural bioactive agents, polymeric nanoparticles loaded with natural bioactive agents in the literature, and the potential role of polymer functionalization, hybrid systems, and stimuli-responsive systems in overcoming most of the system drawbacks. This exploration may offer a thorough idea of viewing the polymeric nanoparticles as a potential candidate for the delivery of natural bioactive agents as well as the challenges and the combating tools used to overcome any hurdles.

Recent advances in targeted gene silencing and cancer therapy by nanoparticle-based delivery systems

Nanomedicine has emerged as a promising platform for disease treatment and much progress has been achieved in the clinical translation for cancer treatment. Several types of nanomedicines have been approved for therapeutic application. However, many nanoparticles still suffer from challenges in the translation from bench to bedside. Currently, nanoparticle-based delivery systems have been developed to explore their functions in targeted gene silencing and cancer therapy. This review describes the research progress of different nano-carriers in targeted gene editing, and the recent progress in co-delivery of anticancer drugs and small ribonucleic acid. We also summarize the strategies for improving the specificity of carrier systems. Finally, we discuss the functions of targeted nano-carriers in overcoming chemotherapeutic drug resistance in cancer therapy. As research continues to advance, a better understanding of the safety including long-term toxicity, immunogenicity, and body metabolism may impel nanoparticle translation.

Synthesis of bee venom loaded chitosan nanoparticles for anti-MERS-COV and multi-drug resistance bacteria

This study aims to fully exploit the natural compound; bee venom (BV) as a substance that can kill and inhibit the growth of microbes and viruses. For this target, BV was loaded onto a safe, natural, and economically inexpensive polymer; chitosan (Ch) in its nano-size form prepared using ionic gelation method in the presence of chemical crosslinking agent (sodium tripolyphosphate; TPP). The findings illustrated that chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs) were prepared thru this method and exhibited spherical shape and average hydrodynamic size of 202 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI = 0.44). However, the size was increased to 221 nm with PDI (0.37) when chitosan nanoparticles were loaded with BV (ChNC). In addition, the particles of BV appeared as a core and chitosan nanoparticles as a shell implying the successful preparation of nanocomposite (ChNC). Encapsulation of BV into ChNPs with significantly small size distribution and good stability that protect these formed nanocomposites from agglomeration. The cytopathic effect (CPE) inhibition assay was used to identify potential antivirals for Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). The response of the dose study was designed to influence the range of effectiveness for the chosen antiviral, i.e., the 50 % inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀), as well as the range of cytotoxicity (CC₅₀). However, our results indicated that crude BV had mild anti-MERS-COV with selective index (SI = 4.6), followed by ChNPs that exhibited moderate anti-MERS-COV with SI = 8.6. Meanwhile. The nanocomposite of ChNC displayed a promising anti-MERS-COV with SI = 12.1. Additionally, the synthesized nanocomposite (ChNC) had greater antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria when compared with ChNPs, BV or the utilized model drug.

Immunogenicity of inactivated Escherichia coli O157:H7 with Stx2B microparticle in mice

Objectives

Vaccination using inactivated bacteria is one of the most effective ways to protect against EHEC infection. Escherichia coli O157:H7 infections are mainly influenced by Shiga toxins (Stx) and attaching/effacing factors. Among various factors, Stx2B is gaining much attention as a vaccine candidate. Formulating an inactivated bacteria with a suitable adjuvant increases vaccine efficacy and antibody production and can lead to a lasting immune response and protection against O157:H7.

Materials and Methods

To assess vaccine efficacy, in this study, we have considered heat and formalin-inactivated bacteria along with chitosan-coated Stx2B/ Stx2B in a mouse model. Ionotropic gelation via tripolyphosphate anions was used to coat Stx2B on chitosan. Subcutaneous injection or oral gavage was used to immunize mice, which were then challenged with E. coli O157:H7.

Results

Immunity and protection against E. coli O157:H7 were achieved by all forms of the vaccine. Inactivated E. coli O157:H7 formulated with chitosan-coated Stx2B effectively evoked humoral and mucosal immune responses. However, minimum shedding appeared with the mice groups orally immunized with formalin-inactivated bacteria sublimated with chitosan-coated Stx2B and heat-inactivated bacteria plus Stx2B in subcutaneous immunization.

Conclusion

Administration of inactivated whole-cell and toxin was synergistic and increased the protection capacity with both parenteral and oral immunization routes.

Simultaneous loading of (-)-epigallocatechin gallate and ferulic acid in chitosan-based nanoparticles as effective antioxidant and potential skin-whitening agents

Chitosan (CS) based nanoparticles simultaneously loaded with (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and ferulic acid (FA) were fabricated via ionic gelation method modified by sodium tripolyphosphate and genipin (G-CS-EGCG-FA NPs). The particle size, morphology, entrapment efficiency, rheological properties, antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activity of NPs were investigated. The G-CS-EGCG-FA NPs exhibited irregular ellipsoidal shape with average diameter of 412.3 nm and high DPPH and ABTS·⁺ scavenging ability. The entrapment efficiency of EGCG and FA in NPs was 46.0 ± 1.3 % and 46.8 ± 1.6 %, respectively. CS-based NPs show no toxic effects on NIH 3 T3 cells and B16-F10 melanoma cells with concentration <200 μg/mL and 25 μg/mL, respectively and the cell viability ranged from 100 % to 118 %. Meanwhile, the oxidative repaired capacity of G-CS-EGCG-FA NPs (200 μg/mL) in H₂O₂-induced cells was over 100 %, higher than that of the same dose of free EGCG or FA. Moreover, the tyrosinase inhibition activity of G-CS-EGCG-FA NPs (25 μg/mL) (84.6 %) was more potent than that of free EGCG (55.3 %), free FA (47.1 %) and kojic acid, indicating the good skin repairing and whitening ability of G-CS-EGCG-FA NPs. Given these results, this research provides new insights for designing novel particles loaded with dual bioactive agents that possess synergistic benefits.

Metagenomics Approach to the Intestinal Microbiome Structure and Abundance in High-Fat-Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemic Rat Fed with (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Nanoparticles

The effects of nanoparticles (NPs) on microbiota homeostasis and their physiological relevance are still unclear. Herein, we compared the modulation and consequent pharmacological effects of oral administration of (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG)-loaded β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) NPs (EGCG@β-CD NPs) and EGCG on gut microbiota. EGCG@β-CD NPs were prepared using self-assembly and their influence on the intestinal microbiome structure was analyzed using a metagenomics approach. The “Encapsulation efficiency (EE), particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential” of EGCG@β-CD NPs were recorded as 98.27 ± 0.36%, 124.6 nm, 0.313 and –24.3 mV, respectively. Surface morphology of EGCG@β-CD NPs was observed as spherical. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and molecular docking studies confirmed that EGCG could be well encapsulated in β-CD and formed as EGCG@β-CD NPs. After being continuously administered EGCG@β-CD NPs for 8 weeks, the serum cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and liver malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the rats were significantly decreased, while the levels of catalase (CAT) and apolipoprotein-A1 (apo-A1) in the liver increased significantly in the hyperlipidemia model of rats, when compared to the high-fat-diet group. Furthermore, metagenomic analysis revealed that the ratio of Verrucomicrobia/Bacteroidetes was altered and Bacteroidetes decreased in the high-fat diet +200 mg/kg·bw EGCG@β-CD NPs group, while the abundance of Verrucomicrobia was significantly increased, especially Akkermansia muciniphila in rat feces. EGCG@β-CD NPs could be a promising EGCG delivery strategy to modulate the gut microbiota, enhancing its employment in the prevention of hyperlipidemia.

Green Synthesis of Silymarin-Chitosan Nanoparticles as a New Nano Formulation with Enhanced Anti-Fibrotic Effects against Liver Fibrosis

Background: Silymarin (SIL) has long been utilized to treat a variety of liver illnesses, but due to its poor water solubility and low membrane permeability, it has a low oral bioavailability, limiting its therapeutic potential. Aim: Design and evaluate hepatic-targeted delivery of safe biocompatible formulated SIL-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (SCNPs) to enhance SIL’s anti-fibrotic effectiveness in rats with CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis. Methods: The SCNPs and chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) were prepared by ionotropic gelation technique and are characterized by physicochemical parameters such as particle size, morphology, zeta potential, and in vitro release studies. The therapeutic efficacy of successfully formulated SCNPs and CNPs were subjected to in vivo evaluation studies. Rats were daily administered SIL, SCNPs, and CNPs orally for 30 days. Results: The in vivo study revealed that the synthesized SCNPs demonstrated a significant antifibrotic therapeutic action against CCl₄-induced hepatic injury in rats when compared to treated groups of SIL and CNPs. SCNP-treated rats had a healthy body weight, with normal values for liver weight and liver index, as well as significant improvements in liver functions, inflammatory indicators, antioxidant pathway activation, and lipid peroxidation reduction. The antifibrotic activities of SCNPs were mediated by suppressing the expression of the main fibrosis mediators TGFβR1, COL3A1, and TGFβR2 by boosting the hepatic expression of protective miRNAs; miR-22, miR-29c, and miR-219a, respectively. The anti-fibrotic effects of SCNPs were supported by histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) study. Conclusions: According to the above results, SCNPs might be the best suitable carrier to target liver cells in the treatment of liver fibrosis.

Nanocarriers Based on Gold Nanoparticles for Epigallocatechin Gallate Delivery in Cancer Cells

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are inorganic and biocompatible nanovehicles capable of conjugating biomolecules to enhance their efficacy in cancer treatment. The high and reactive surface area provides good advantages for conjugating active compounds. Two approaches were developed in this work to improve the Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) antioxidant efficacy. AuNPs were synthesized by reducing gold salt with chitosan. One other nanosystem was developed by functionalizing AuNPs with cysteamine using the Turkevitch method. The physico-chemical characterization of EGCG conjugated in the two nanosystems-based gold nanoparticles was achieved. The in vitro toxic effect induced by the nanoconjugates was evaluated in pancreatic cancer cells, showing that encapsulated EGCG keeps its antioxidant activity and decreasing the BxPC3 cell growth. A significant cell growth inhibition was observed in 50% with EGCG concentrations in the range of 2.2 and 3.7 μM in EGCG-ChAuNPs and EGCG-Cyst-AuNPs nanoconjugates, respectively. The EGCG alone had to be present at 23 μM to induce the same cytotoxicity response. Caspase-3 activity assay demonstrated that the conjugation of EGCG induces an enhancement of BxPC3 apoptosis compared with EGCG alone. In conclusion, AuNPs complexes can be used as delivery carriers to increase EGCG antioxidant activity in cancer tissues.

An Up-to-Date Review of Natural Nanoparticles for Cancer Management

Cancer represents one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, imposing an urgent need to develop more efficient treatment alternatives. In this respect, much attention has been drawn from conventional cancer treatments to more modern approaches, such as the use of nanotechnology. Extensive research has been done for designing innovative nanoparticles able to specifically target tumor cells and ensure the controlled release of anticancer agents. To avoid the potential toxicity of synthetic materials, natural nanoparticles started to attract increasing scientific interest. In this context, this paper aims to review the most important natural nanoparticles used as active ingredients (e.g., polyphenols, polysaccharides, proteins, and sterol-like compounds) or as carriers (e.g., proteins, polysaccharides, viral nanoparticles, and exosomes) of various anticancer moieties, focusing on their recent applications in treating diverse malignancies.

Chitosan Nanoparticles for Antiviral Drug Delivery: A Novel Route for COVID-19 Treatment

Chitosan has been investigated in several biological fields, including drug and gene delivery, tissue engineering antiviral and immunological adjuvant methods. It's a cationic copolymer of N-acetyl glucosamine and D-glucosamine with different molecular chain lengths, compositions, and sequences than N-acetyl glucosamine and D-glucosamine. It is biocompatible and cyto-compatible, as well as recyclable and bioresorbable. As effective drug delivery methods, chitosan nanoparticles are shaped into several pathways. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of its antiviral application as a nanocarrier for antiviral medications, highlighting the benefits, limitations, and downsides. In this review, we will report the most recent COVID-19 vaccination advances. It will also be discussed what the future holds for chitosan nanoparticles in the treatment of coronaviruses.

Preparation and Characterization of Silymarin-Conjugated Gold Nanoparticles with Enhanced Anti-Fibrotic Therapeutic Effects against Hepatic Fibrosis in Rats: Role of MicroRNAs as Molecular Targets

BACKGROUND

The main obstacles of silymarin (SIL) application in liver diseases are its low bioavailability, elevated metabolism, rapid excretion in bile and urine, and inefficient intestinal resorption. The study aimed to synthesize and characterize silymarin-conjugated gold nanoparticles (SGNPs) formulation to improve SIL bioavailability and release for potentiating its antifibrotic action.

METHODS

Both SGNPs and gold nanoparticles (GNPs) were prepared and characterized using standard characterization techniques. The improved formulation was assessed for in vitro drug release study and in vivo study on rats using CCl₄ induced hepatic fibrosis model. SIL, SGNPs, and GNPs were administered by oral gavage daily for 30 days. At the end of the study, rats underwent anesthesia and were sacrificed, serum samples were collected for biochemical analysis. Liver tissues were collected to measure the genes and microRNAs (miRNAs) expressions. Also, histopathological and immunohistochemistry (IHC) examinations of hepatic tissues supported these results.

RESULTS

The successful formation and conjugation of SGNPs were confirmed by measurements methods. The synthesized nanohybrid SGNPs showed significant antifibrotic therapeutic action against CCl₄-induced hepatic damage in rats, and preserved normal body weight, liver weight, liver index values, retained normal hepatic functions, lowered inflammatory markers, declined lipid peroxidation, and activated the antioxidant pathway nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (NRF2). The antifibrotic activities of SGNPs mediated through enhancing the hepatic expression of the protective miRNAs; miR-22, miR-29c, and miR-219a which results in suppressed expression of the main fibrosis mediators; TGFβR1, COL3A1, and TGFβR2, respectively. The histopathology and IHC analysis confirmed the anti-fibrotic effects of SGNPs.

CONCLUSIONS

The successful synthesis of SGNPs with sizes ranging from 16 up to 20 nm and entrapment efficiency and loading capacity 96% and 38.69%, respectively. In vivo studies revealed that the obtained nano-formulation of SIL boosted its anti-fibrotic effects.

Chitosan-tripolyphosphate nanoparticles designed to encapsulate polyphenolic compounds for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications - A review

Plant-based polyphenols are natural compounds, present in fruits and vegetables. During recent years, polyphenols have gained special attention due to their nutraceutical and pharmacological activities for the prevention and treatment of human diseases. Nevertheless, their photosensitivity and low bioavailability, rapid metabolism and short biological half-life represent the major limitations for their use, which could be overcome by polyphenols encapsulation (flavonoids and non-flavonoids) into chitosan (CS)-tripolyphosphate (TPP) based nanoparticles (NP). In this review, we particularly focused on the ionic gelation method for the NP design. This contribution exhaustively discusses and compares results of scientific reports published in the last decade referring to ionic gelation applied for the protection, controlled and site-directed delivery of polyphenols. As a consequence, CS-TPP NP would constitute true platforms to transport polyphenols, or a combination of them, to be used for the designing of a new generation of drugs or nutraceuticals.

A Critical Review of the Use of Surfactant-Coated Nanoparticles in Nanomedicine and Food Nanotechnology

Surfactants, whose existence has been recognized as early as 2800 BC, have had a long history with the development of human civilization. With the rapid development of nanotechnology in the latter half of the 20th century, breakthroughs in nanomedicine and food nanotechnology using nanoparticles have been remarkable, and new applications have been developed. The technology of surfactant-coated nanoparticles, which provides new functions to nanoparticles for use in the fields of nanomedicine and food nanotechnology, is attracting a lot of attention in the fields of basic research and industry. This review systematically describes these "surfactant-coated nanoparticles" through various sections in order: 1) surfactants, 2) surfactant-coated nanoparticles, application of surfactant-coated nanoparticles to 3) nanomedicine, and 4) food nanotechnology. Furthermore, current progress and problems of the technology using surfactant-coated nanoparticles through recent research reports have been discussed.

Chitosan coated pH-responsive metal-polyphenol delivery platform for melanoma chemotherapy

The safe and effective drug delivery system is important for cancer therapy. Here in, we first constructed a delivery system Cabazitaxel(Cab)@MPN/CS between metal-polyphenol (MPN) and chitosan (CS) to deliver Cab for melanoma therapy. The preparation process is simple, green, and controllable. After introducing CS coating, the drug loading was improved from 7.56 % to 9.28 %. Cab@MPN/CS NPs released Cab continuously under acid tumor microenvironment. The zeta potential of Cab@MPN/CS NPs could be controlled by changing the ratio of Cab@MPN and CS solutions. The positively charged Cab@MPN/CS accelerate B16F10 cell internalization. After internalized, Cab@MPN/CS NPs could escape from lysosomes via the proton sponge effect. The permeability of CS promotes the penetration of Cab@MPN/CS to the deeper B16F10 tumor spheroids. In vivo results showed that Cab@MPN/CS NPs have a longer retention time in tumor tissues and significantly inhibit tumor growth by up-regulating TUNEL expression and down-regulating KI67 and CD31 expression. Thus, this delivery system provides a promising strategy for the tumor therapy in clinic.

Biocompatibility analysis of high molecular weight chitosan obtained from Pleoticus muelleri shrimps. Evaluation in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells

The search for the exploitation and recycling of biomaterials is increasing for reducing the use of non-renewable resources and minimizing environmental pollution caused by synthetic materials. In this context, Chitosan (CS) being a naturally occurring biopolymer becomes relevant. The aim of the present work was to explore the effects of High Molecular Weight CS (H-CS) from Argentinean shrimp's wastes in prokaryotic and eukaryotic in vitro cell cultures. Ultrastructure of H-CS was analysed by SEM and TEM. In vitro studies were performed in prokaryotic (Lactobacillus casei BL23) and eukaryotic (Caco-2, ARPE-19, EA.hy926 and 3T3-L1) culture cells. High performance microscopic techniques were applied to examine culture cells. No changes in morphology were found in any of the cell types. In addition, fluorescent-dyed H-CS revealed that eukaryotic cells could internalize it optimally. Viability was maintained and proliferation rate even increased for Caco-2, ARPE-19 and 3T3-L1 cells under H-CS treatment. Besides, viability was neither altered in L. casei nor in EA.hy926 cells after H-CS exposure. In conclusion, H-CS could be a suitable biopolymer to be exploited for biomedical or food industry applications.

Catechins within the Biopolymer Matrix-Design Concepts and Bioactivity Prospects

Epidemiological studies and clinical investigations proposed that catechins extracts alone may not provide a sufficient level of bioactivities and promising therapeutic effects to achieve health benefits due to a number of constraints related to poor oral absorption, limited bioavailability, sensitivity to oxidation, etc. Modern scientific studies have reported numerous techniques for the design of micro- and nano-bio-delivery systems as novel and promising strategies to overcome these obstacles and to enhance catechins' therapeutic activity. The objective assessment of their benefits, however, requires a critical comparative estimation of the advantages and disadvantages of the designed catechins-biocarrier systems, their biological activities and safety administration aspects. In this respect, the present review objectively outlines, compares and assesses the recent advances related to newly developed design concepts of catechins' encapsulation into various biopolymer carriers and their release behaviour, with a special emphasis on the specific physiological biofunctionalities of the innovative bioflavonoid/biopolymer delivery systems.

Enhanced Chemotherapeutic Efficacy of PLGA-Encapsulated Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) Against Human Lung Cancer

Purpose

Currently, the clinical benefits of tea polyphenols have contributed to the development of efficient systemic delivery systems with adequate bioavailability and stability. In this study, we aimed to establish a nanoparticle model to overcome the shortcomings of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in the treatment of lung cancer.

Materials and Methods

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with EGCG were prepared by the oil-in-water emulsion solvent evaporation technique. The characteristics of NPs, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro release were systematically evaluated. The cellular uptake, cytotoxic activity, and the effect of the formulation on cellular apoptosis of free-from EGCG and the NPs were compared. The interaction between protein-NF-κB and EGCG was detected by bio-layer interferometry (BLI). NF-κB signaling was evaluated by Western blotting and q-RT-PCR. The efficacy of the optimized nanoformulation was evaluated using a patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDX) model.

Results

EGCG-loaded NPs (175.8±3.8 nm in size) demonstrated its optimal efficacy, with approximately 86.0% of encapsulation efficiency and 14.2% of loading efficiency. Additionally, EGCG-encapsulated PLGA-NPs offered a 3-4-fold dose advantage compared to free EGCG in terms of exerting antiproliferative effects and inducing apoptosis at lower doses (12.5, 25 μM). Molecular interaction assays demonstrated that EGCG binds to NF-κB with high affnity (KD=4.8×10⁻⁵ M). EGCG-NPs were more effective at inhibiting NF-κB activation and suppressing the expression of NF-κB-regulated genes than free EGCG. Furthermore, EGCG-NPs showed superior anticancer activity in the PDX model than free EGCG.

Conclusion

These findings indicated that the prepared EGCG-NPs were more effective than free EGCG in inhibiting lung cancer tumors in the PDX model.

Novel Drug Delivery Systems for Loading of Natural Plant Extracts and Their Biomedical Applications

Many types of research have distinctly addressed the efficacy of natural plant metabolites used for human consumption both in cell culture and preclinical animal model systems. However, these in vitro and in vivo effects have not been able to be translated for clinical use because of several factors such as inefficient systemic delivery and bioavailability of promising agents that significantly contribute to this disconnection. Over the past decades, extraordinary advances have been made successfully on the development of novel drug delivery systems for encapsulation of plant active metabolites including organic, inorganic and hybrid nanoparticles. The advanced formulas are confirmed to have extraordinary benefits over conventional and previously used systems in the manner of solubility, bioavailability, toxicity, pharmacological activity, stability, distribution, sustained delivery, and both physical and chemical degradation. The current review highlights the development of novel nanocarrier for plant active compounds, their method of preparation, type of active ingredients, and their biomedical applications.

Preparation of Puerarin Chitosan Oral Nanoparticles by Ionic Gelation Method and Its Related Kinetics

In this paper, as an active ingredient, puerarin chitosan nanoparticles (Pur-CS/TPP-NPs) are prepared by an ionic gelation method. The chitosan (CS) concentration, pH of the CS solution, sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) concentration, stirring speed, stirring time, ultrasonic power, and dosage are used as single factors for investigation, and the encapsulation efficiency, drug loading capacity, particle size, and polydispersity index (PDI) are used as indicators for investigation. The optimal prescription is determined using the Box–Behnken effect surface design method. The characterization of the best formulation, which is determined via an in vitro release assay and liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis methods, is used here for pharmacokinetic studies. An in situ single-pass intestinal perfusion model is used to investigate drug absorption in the intestine. After characterization, the morphologies of the nanoparticles are intact. It can be seen from the in vitro release experiments that the equation fitted by the nanoparticles is the Higuchi model, the nanoparticle release process is very stable and without sudden release, indicating that the nanoparticles are well-released in vitro. The pharmacokinetic results and the in situ single-pass intestinal perfusion model study show that the bioavailability and absorption of Pur-CS/TPP-NPs were significantly higher than Pur. Thus, all the results show that the prepared nanoparticles can significantly improve the bioavailability of Pur, and we hope to lay the foundation for the development of new products of Pur.